Cu Linh Temple is so peaceful, you’ll want to hold your breath. Towering ancient trees encircle the temple, their branches weaving a natural canopy—sunlight drips through like divine rays. A perfect blend of nature and spirituality. Every step echoes with history and green serenity. Sit still, close your eyes, listen to the wind and chants… and feel your soul finally settle.

Dreaming of a lakeview getaway in Hanoi? This 2024 award-winning luxury hotel by West Lake offers serenity just 10 mins from the Old Quarter. Recharge at the executive lounge and spa, while kids love the play zone and special children's menu. With Chinese-friendly services from airport transfers to currency exchange, every detail shines. Grill by the lakeside at night, sip coffee with sunrise views by day... Whether for family vacations or business trips, the panoramic suite views and amenities like tennis courts will dazzle you!
Everything you need to know about Chùa Cự Linh
Near Chùa Cự Linh, the Hanoi Metropole Hotel stands out as a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from the temple. This historic French-colonial-style hotel features elegant rooms, a tranquil courtyard garden, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a peaceful morning visit to the serene Chùa Cự Linh, followed by an afternoon stroll to Hoàn Kiếm Lake to soak in local life. The on-site restaurant serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including must-try phở bò Hà Nội and fresh gỏi cuốn. Conveniently situated near bus terminals and e-bike rental stations, the hotel offers seamless access to other attractions across the Old Quarter.
After visiting Chùa Cự Linh, explore a traditional water puppet show at the Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. Performances begin in the evening with vivid staging and melodic music. Nearby, sip a chilled Vietnamese iced coffee at a local street-side café to experience daily Hanoi life. For deeper insight into Buddhism, join a guided meditation workshop led by monks, offering hands-on practice of mindfulness rooted in Theravāda tradition. These immersive activities enrich your journey and connect you authentically with Hanoi’s spiritual and cultural heartbeat.
From Chùa Cự Linh, take a short 10-minute walk or ride an e-bike (xe máy) to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, where numerous rental stations and ride-hailing apps like Grab and Be are readily available. A 15-minute ride will take you to key sites such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and Old Quarter. Bus Route 12 also passes near the temple, connecting directly to National Museum and 36 Streets. For optimal comfort, visit Chùa Cự Linh early in the morning, then explore the lakeside area on foot during the cooler hours, immersing yourself in Hanoi’s vibrant urban rhythm while avoiding midday heat.
Yes, Hoàn Kiếm Lake Park is a perfect family-friendly retreat near Chùa Cự Linh, featuring lush greenery, playgrounds, jogging paths, and a waterfront promenade ideal for flying kites or riding bicycles. Weekends often host small cultural markets selling handmade crafts and local snacks like chả lụa and bánh ú tro. Outside the temple, shaded cafés along the covered walkway offer cool drinks and comfortable seating—perfect for parents and kids to relax together. The area is safe, quiet, and just a 15-minute walk to Hanoi Train Street, making it a seamless blend of nature, culture, and family fun.
Near Chùa Cự Linh, start your day with a bowl of authentic Hanoi phở bò, served fresh at roadside stalls with rich broth, fragrant herbs, and chili oil. Some vendors even offer DIY rice paper rolls and steamed spring rolls, letting you craft your own meal. For a more refined option, enjoy the buffet breakfast at Hanoi Metropole Hotel, featuring local treats like đậu xanh bánh and nước cốt dừa bánh trôi, paired with freshly brewed coffee and fruit platters. Many neighborhood cafés also serve specialty cold drip coffee and French baguettes, creating a serene morning ambiance that captures the essence of Hanoi’s daily rhythm.
Chùa Cự Linh blends Southeast Asian Buddhist design with French colonial influences, featuring red tiled roofs, carved wooden windows, and white columns. Its central stupa rises prominently, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment. Inside, gilded Buddha statues and intricate murals depicting Buddhist parables showcase traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Notably, a lotus pond lies before the main hall, hosting ceremonial blessings during festivals. Built into the hillside, the complex follows natural contours, embodying the philosophy of harmony between man and nature. Dating back to the 19th century, it remains a serene sanctuary for worship and reflection, offering deep insight into Hanoi’s religious and cultural heritage.
See what other travelers say about Chùa Cự Linh

Staying at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel was one of the quietest experiences I've had in any hotel—seriously, it felt like a peaceful oasis amid the bustling city. I'm not sure if it's because most locals ride electric scooters (which are quieter than regular motorcycles), but the ambient noise level outside was surprisingly low, making for a restful night's sleep. The location is excellent—right in the heart of Hanoi, just a short walk to major attractions and public transit. Breakfast was a highlight: diverse, fresh, and well-prepared with both local and international options. Comfortable rooms, great service, and an overall experience that exceeds expectations. If you're visiting Hanoi and want a calm, convenient, and high-quality stay, this hotel is absolutely worth considering.

The hotel is on the smaller side, but it’s incredibly clean and well-maintained. I arrived late at night, and the staff were so welcoming and efficient—no hassle at all with check-in. The room was cozy, spotless, and had everything I needed. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, varied, and delicious. Even though the space is compact, it feels thoughtfully designed and comfortable. The location is great—close to public transit and downtown attractions. Overall, a fantastic value for the price. If you're looking for a quiet, clean, and friendly stay in Hanoi, this is a solid choice.

Staying at this hotel in the heart of Hanoi was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just a short walk from major attractions and local gems, with public transport right at your doorstep. The rooms are clean, modern, and very comfortable, making it easy to unwind after a day of exploring. But what truly stands out is the spa service—professional, relaxing, and incredibly well-executed. The therapists know exactly how to ease tension, and the treatment room ambiance is serene and soothing. It’s not just a stay; it’s a little escape within the city. I’d definitely come back and recommend this place to anyone looking for a peaceful yet central base in Hanoi.

The hotel is perfectly located for exploring all the top attractions in Hanoi—everything is just a short walk or quick transit away. I booked last minute, and the check-in process was smooth and hassle-free. What really stood out was that some staff members spoke basic Japanese, which made communication easy and welcoming. The price was very reasonable for the quality and convenience. Overall, an excellent stay—I’d definitely come back again.

Staying at Splendid Holiday Hotel in Hanoi was a pleasant experience overall. The room was clean, well-maintained, and spacious with all the essentials we needed. Though we didn’t get to try the breakfast, which would’ve been a nice touch, the hotel’s location stood out—very convenient for getting around the city by metro, and there are plenty of local eateries nearby. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely consider this hotel again on future trips to Hanoi. Great option for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.

Staying at Bendecir Hotel & Spa was an absolute highlight of my trip to Hanoi. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city center, with easy access to metro lines and all the local charm. The room was spacious, clean, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially loved the spa services—they were relaxing and professionally done, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle. The staff were warm and attentive without being overbearing. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, from the ambiance to the little touches. For such a high-quality experience at this price point, it’s hard to beat. I’d definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting Hanoi.

I was thrilled to stay at this hotel during my first visit to Hanoi, and it absolutely exceeded my expectations. The rooms are clean, well-maintained, and feature real windows (with a small balcony), which made the space feel airy and inviting. Annie at the front desk was incredibly helpful—her English was excellent, and she gave me great recommendations for nearby restaurants and cafes. She even helped me communicate with our local driver, which saved me so much hassle. The breakfast pho was outstanding—so good that I had it for both my first meal and last meal of the trip. It’s not just tasty; it’s authentic and satisfying. With its welcoming staff, convenient location, and unbeatable value, I’ll definitely be returning here on my next trip to Hanoi. Highly recommended!

Staying at La Sinfonia Citadel Hotel and Spa was a delightful experience overall. While it's a bit of a walk from the Old Quarter, the location is still convenient—just a short metro ride away, making access easy. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, especially the front desk attendant who was not only handsome but also genuinely shy and polite—such a pleasant surprise! The room itself was beautifully designed with thoughtful touches, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Breakfast was simple but sufficient—nothing fancy, but definitely filling. The highlight has to be the second-floor spa; it’s serene and luxurious, but booking ahead is essential—showing up without a reservation could lead to disappointment. Overall, this hotel offers excellent value for money, great service, and a peaceful retreat in Hanoi. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for comfort and charm.

Staying at Hanoi Garden Hotel & Spa was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—everything from local markets to historic sites is just a short walk away. Even though the hotel seemed fully booked, we were lucky to secure a room thanks to booking early. The room rates were surprisingly affordable, especially considering the quality and convenience. If you're looking for a comfortable stay in central Hanoi without breaking the bank, this place is definitely worth considering. Highly recommend it!

Tucked away in a quiet alley, Eli Rina Hotel is a hidden gem that truly delivers on both style and convenience. Despite its unassuming entrance, the interior is beautifully designed with a modern yet cozy vibe. The location is perfect—just steps away from some amazing local street food and charming little cafés where you can relax with a good coffee. I’ve stayed here multiple times during my visits to Hanoi, and it’s always been a highlight of my trip. The staff are friendly, the room is clean and comfortable, and the overall experience is just exceptional. If I’m ever back in Hanoi, this will be my first choice again. Hanoi is such a food lover’s paradise, and staying at Eli Rina makes exploring all the delicious local flavors even more enjoyable.

Staying at Elegant Suites Westlake was an absolute delight! The room was beautifully designed with a modern yet cozy vibe—spacious and well-lit, making it feel like a home away from home. I was especially impressed by the large bathroom and the fully equipped kitchen, which made cooking meals during my trip super convenient. The front desk staff went above and beyond with their warm, friendly service—always ready to help with anything, whether it was recommendations or local tips. The only minor downside was the location; there was ongoing construction outside, which slightly affected the view from the window. However, this didn’t detract from the overall experience—my room was quiet, comfortable, and perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring Hanoi. Despite the noise from construction, I still found the stay peaceful and enjoyable. The high rating truly reflects how great this place is—perfect for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and excellent service.

The Atlanta Residences completely exceeded my expectations! We were a family of five, including elderly members and kids, and the spacious, clean rooms made our stay incredibly comfortable. The apartment layout was perfect for families—no cramped corners or feeling squeezed. On top of that, the local pho shop right downstairs was amazing—authentic flavors, generous portions, and such a convenient spot to grab a quick meal. It’s just a short metro ride from downtown Hanoi, making it super easy to explore the city. With the comfort, location, and value, I’d definitely come back without hesitation.
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