West Lake (Ho Tay) is Hanoi’s largest lake and the surrounding promenade offers a rare calm walkable green space away from the city’s chaotic traffic. Pedal boats and small rowboats can be rented from several lakeside piers for approximately 60,000-100,000 VND ($2.50-4.50 USD) per 30 minutes; life vests are typically available and should be requested for young children. The shaded walking path around the lake’s southern edge near Truc Bach Lake is paved and stroller-friendly for approximately 1.5 kilometers. Best visited in the early morning (before 8am) or late afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid peak heat; midday sun on open water with no shade can be brutal for toddlers. The surrounding neighborhood has numerous banh cuon and pho shops if kids need a quick snack before or after.

Address: Thuy Ta Cafe Pier, 1 Le Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

Google Maps: Click here for directions

Cost: Low Cost $