Varies by nationality; many get 15-45 day visa-free entry. Check with Vietnamese embassy.

Is Cổ Loa open every day?

Yes, daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The temple and museum may close for lunch 12-1:30 PM.

How much is the entrance fee?

About 20,000 VND (~$1) for the citadel and museum.

Yes, local guides are available at the entrance for around 100,000 VND ($4) for a 1-hour tour.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes, it's family-friendly with open spaces and history. Bring water and sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and a hat. Modest attire for temples.

Are there restaurants nearby?

Several local eateries serve pho, bun cha, and spring rolls. Try the local specialty: banh cuon.

Cổ Lóa

CityHanoi, Vietnam

Cổ Lóa is a CITY in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Cổ Loa, an ancient citadel just north of Hanoi, is a treasure trove of Vietnamese history and legend. Wander through the sprawling earthwork fortifications dating back to the 3rd century BC, where the mythical golden turtle gave King An Dương Vương a magical crossbow. Today, visitors explore the peaceful ruins, the temple dedicated to the king, and the nearby village with its traditional houses and craft workshops. The site offers a serene escape from Hanoi's bustle, with lush rice paddies and lotus ponds surrounding the ancient walls. Local guides share tales of the citadel's spiral design and its role in Vietnam's early kingdoms. Don't miss the small museum displaying bronze drums and artifacts. The area is perfect for history buffs, cyclists, and photographers seeking a glimpse of Vietnam's deep past in a tranquil rural setting.

Best time to visit Cổ Lóa

The best time is from October to April, when weather is cooler and drier (15-25°C). This avoids the hot, humid summer and heavy rains. The spring months (Feb-Apr) are especially pleasant with blooming flowers and local festivals, including the Cổ Loa Festival in early spring.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Clear
Temperature: 27°
Feels like: 31°
Humidity: 81%
Wind: 11 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 21-28°C, dry

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

Best month for visiting

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

HAN

Noi Bai International Airport

International

25 km away

Getting around

"From Hanoi, take bus #46 or #17 from Long Bien or My Dinh bus stations (30-45 mins). Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are convenient. Within Cổ Loa, walking or renting a bicycle is best to explore the citadel and village. Motorbike taxis (xe om) are available for short trips."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at cafes and some homestays in the area

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Hanoi airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe, but watch for traffic on main roads and occasional overcharging.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe, but watch for traffic on main roads and occasional overcharging.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Cổ Loa is very safe for tourists, with low crime. Beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas and when using public transport to/from Hanoi. Traffic can be chaotic on the roads; cross carefully. Scams are rare but watch for overpriced souvenirs or unofficial guides. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No special vaccinations required for Cổ Loa, but ensure routine vaccines are up-to-date. Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or boiled water. Mosquito repellent is recommended, especially during rainy season (May-Oct). Local clinics in Hanoi handle minor issues; for serious care, head to international hospitals in Hanoi. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is advised."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting temples and the citadel (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering temple sanctuaries. Greet locals with a slight nod and smile. Avoid touching people's heads or pointing feet at sacred objects. Bargaining is acceptable at markets but keep it friendly. Photography is allowed but ask permission before taking portraits of locals."

Vietnamese (official)EnglishFrenchChineseKhmerVietnamese

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$2-5

Hotels

$15-30 | budget hotels range $15-30/night in nearby Hanoi

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Cổ Loa itself has limited accommodation; most visitors day-trip from Hanoi.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh
Local time 21:35

More facts

Population

16,514

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Co Loa, Cổ Lóa, Cổ Loa

CityHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingCultural