Hoa Lo Prison

Description

A historical site worth visiting when in Hanoi is the Hoa Lo Prison, or at least what is left of it. Built during the French occupation in Vietnam and then used during the Vietnam War; where it was given the name ‘Hanoi Hilton’, by American prisoners of war, the Hoa Lo Prison is one of the top attractions in Hanoi. This site is all that is left of the prison, as most of it was demolished in the mid-1990s. Today, parts of the Hoa Lo Prison exist as a museum. Visitors will come across a variety of thought-provoking displays and exhibits, including the guillotine room which is still with original equipment, displays on the American pilots imprisoned here during the American War, quarters for the Vietnamese political prisoners, the interrogation room, photographs and writings telling the stories of inmates, amongst others. During the war, US Senator John McCain was a famous inmate; his flight suit can be seen here. The gruesome atmosphere of the prison, along with its history, makes it a must-visit attraction when in the city of Hanoi.

Ticket Price

VND 10,000

Opening Hour

8am to 5pm

Recommended Visit Duration

Around 1 hour or more

Suitable For

Adults, senior visitors, young adults, families, children

Must See

The guillotine room, the pictures and writings

Prayer Facilities

Muslims visiting Hoa Lo Prison will not be able to find prayer facilities within its premises. However, due to the sizeable Muslim community in Hanoi, locating a mosque will be possible. The only known mosque in Hanoi city is Al-Noor Mosque; it is located on Hang Luoc Street in the Old Quarter.

Halal Food

While visitors to Hoa Lo Prison will not be able to find food outlets at the attraction, they will be able to find plenty of restaurants in the surrounding areas. Most of these dining establishments will however not be Halal certified. Muslim tourists can therefore ask staff at the attraction to direct them to the best Halal restaurant close by.