St. Joseph's Cathedral

St. Joseph's Cathedral

St. Joseph's Cathedral
4
Points of Interest & LandmarksReligious Sites
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
About
Entering this majestic church is like walking into 1886, as little has changed since it first opened its doors.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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  • Zimminaroundtheworld
    Okinawa Prefecture, Japan1,971 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Unexpected Cathedral in Hanoi
    St. Joseph's Cathedral is an interesting Cathedral in the heart of Hanoi. It's surprising how massive this cathedral is. The outside is beautiful, I briefly went inside and it was nice. This is a popular attraction for Instagram apparently. Kind of a shame that so many people come here just for a quick selfie and then leave. That is kind of our world today though. Otherwise, the cathedral is in a nice area, plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops around.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 13 October 2023
  • Garfieldluvr
    Denver, Colorado976 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful Church!!
    This church is worth stopping by, especially at night when it is lit up. No need to go inside, just admire it from the outside. While it looks like many European churches, it is also uniquely designed.
    Visited April 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 28 October 2023
  • Willy G
    25 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    Looks cool on photo, but the place is just average
    If you haven’t seen any cathedral in Europe, this is ok. If you have visited France and Germany, this is kind small and unimpressive. You can only see a small portion of the church. This is more of a relic of how Europeans left their mark in Vietnam.
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 21 November 2023
  • Geffers O
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Awe-inspiring beauty
    Beautiful, ornamental, and intricate, St. Joseph's Cathedral Hanoi is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. From the ornate façade to the intricate interior design, this cathedral is a sight to behold. The ornamental details and intricate patterns of the stained glass windows are breathtaking, and the overall atmosphere is one of awe and reverence.
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 1 December 2023
  • Wikumj
    Redhill, United Kingdom425 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful and unique in Hanoi and Vietnam
    Don't quite understand the average reviews here. There aren't a huge number of 'sites' to see in the Old Quarter (as it is more about the vibe, atmosphere, shopping, eating) but if you are in the area anyway I would definitely recommend stopping by this truly beautiful Gothic church. It is so unique in terms of architecture for Hanoi and Vietnam. The inside is also very beautiful and peaceful. Only takes 15 minutes to snap some photos outside and inside, so why wouldn't you stop by if you are in the area?
    Visited November 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 6 December 2023
  • MFS
    Indonesia25 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    St Joseph Cathedral
    St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi is a captivating blend of French Gothic architecture and cultural significance. The towering spires and intricate details create a majestic atmosphere, offering a serene escape from the bustling city. The interior, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and religious artwork, exudes a sense of spiritual tranquility. The cathedral's historical importance adds another layer to its charm, making it a must-visit landmark in Hanoi.
    Visited January 2024
    Travelled on business
    Written 25 January 2024
  • BrakiWorldTraveler
    Belgrade, Serbia19,509 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Vietnam's most beautiful Cathedral
    We've been on a big Vietnam 15 days tour from south to north. As the whole region was under French rule for around 150 years, they left many significant edifices all over. St. Joseph's Cathedral was the most beautiful French Church we saw in all Vietnam, built in 1886, much better than those in HCMC, Da Nang or smaller towns. Two Gothic spires dominate the Old quarter, with very nice interior. Don't expect Paris Notre Dame many refer to, but certainly a Church worth visiting. BEWARE just not to sit at Vivienne Cafe on the square in front of it (scammers and heavily overpriced). We did that to relax and enjoy the Cathedral but regretted.
    Visited January 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 10 February 2024
  • Breeze
    2,304 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    With the spotlights the cathedral is more beautiful at night
    In the daytime there is not so special and quite dark, however if at night there is the spotlights and it looks very beautiful. All the crowds is around the cathedral and always very noisy with the messy traffic around. The bell is quite charming and it's nice to hear the bell in the morning.
    Visited February 2024
    Travelled with friends
    Written 14 February 2024
  • Djiby
    London, United Kingdom1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Architectural Grandeur in Hanoi
    Its imposing facade, with twin towers and intricate stonework commands attention. The interior, while somewhat austere, echoes the cathedral's impressive scale. The stained glass windows offer a touch of colorful beauty amidst the grand surroundings. Though a place of active worship, St. Joseph's Cathedral welcomes visitors outside of service times. It's easy to see why it's a Hanoi landmark. Whether you're drawn to its architecture or religious significance, the cathedral leaves a lasting impression of history and artistry. We recommend respectful attire and suggest checking for any service closures before visiting.
    Visited March 2024
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 28 March 2024
  • arpitam
    Gurugram (Gurgaon), India1,064 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    You cannot miss it
    The cathedral was closed at the time we visited in the late afternoon. However, the courtyard outside was bustling with tourists and visitors. The cathedral is located right at the din of the major crossing close to the Hon Kiem lake. Wandering around the place also feel great!
    Visited April 2024
    Travelled with family
    Written 23 April 2024
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4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles2,988 reviews
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Maria D
Manila18 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
To 4 million Catholics in Hanoi, St. Joseph's Cathedral symbolizes their unwavering faith and religious history. The Cathedral, built similarly to the Notre Dame in Paris, named in honor of St. Joseph, the country's patron saint. Imposing from the outside, which is the only place we were allowed to look at it for our February trip was right smack during the Corona virus scare although Vietnam then just got a clean bill of health. Twice we tried to visit, hoping wecould get a closer view during the day. . Our third evening visit did not disappoint with the spectacular play of lights weaving in and out of every spire, window, bell of its two towers. Just the facade view was gave a moving, memorable experience. Hanoi Hanvet Hotel where we stayed was several minutes away from the Cathedral, shopping and coffee houses.
Written 31 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Wills
Bracknell, UK214 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2019
Completed in 1886 by the French Colonial Government, St Joseph's Cathedral has an architectural style described as resembling Notre Dame in Paris.

A short walk east from Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the cathedral is an impressive grey building that dominates a small square within the Old Quarter. Inside is an oasis of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle if the Quarter. An ideal retreat at the end of a busy day's sightseeing. My only disappointment was that inside it was eerily dark.

Normal visitor access is via a door and a few steepish steps on the North side. There is a ramp for wheelchair access and those wishing to avoid the steps on the South side.
Written 12 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Justnitid
Mumbai, India368 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019 • Couples
Built in 1886, in a neo-Gothic style with towering bell-towers on either side, the Na Tho Cathedral is an architectural gem. It is just west of Hoan Kiem lake, taking pride of place in a small town square surrounded by busy streets, shops and restaurants.
In the run up to Christmas the place was extremely festive, with a large Christmas tree and depictions of the Nativity scene. The place is always crowded, but inside it will be very peaceful.
Written 8 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

digitalroc
Calgary, Canada2,141 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019
St. Joseph’s Cathedral is a Gothic Revival church that was built in the late 19th Century during the French Colonial period. The two square bell towers have a height of 31.5 meters and a large clock in the middle under the Catholic cross . A large Christmas tree was erected out front during my time in Hanoi, making a great photo opportunity. Although I made a visit during the day, at night I imagine the lights would make it looks spectacular.
Written 12 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rachelle C
Tamuning, Mariana Islands78 contributions
3.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2024 • Couples
We came by at 3:25 pm on a Sunday in August and I thought there was a 4:00 pm mass, but we were denied entry, and I am not sure why. (Unfortunately the man at the side door just said "no, no" in English but wouldn't say anything else in either Vietnamese or English.) There was a large group of children in white shirts and handkerchiefs queueing up in front and going through the front door. I am not sure what was happening? Maybe somebody else can fill me in.
Written 25 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Linda B
Raleigh, NC2,201 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
The cathedral was named after Joseph, the patron saint of Vietnam and Indochina.
Construction began in 1886, with the architectural style described as resembling Notre Dame de Paris. It was one of the first structures built by the French colonial government in Indochina when it opened in December 1886. It is the oldest church in Hanoi.
Written 10 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Annette Dupont
Hanoi, Vietnam22 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sept 2023 • Solo
I was taken to St. Joseph's Church by a Vietnamese tour guide. It was really an interesting experience. The tour guide bought me "Xoi com" (green rice sticky rice) for only $2. Delicious!

Eat sticky rice and drink lemon tea right outside the church courtyard to admire its architecture.

I think it's the best thing to do in autumn in Hanoi. I will attend mass when I return!
Google
Written 14 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Nana_JP
Washington, DC425 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020 • Solo
The Cathedral is truly beautiful and representative of the majestic French cathedrals from which it was designed. Usually, the cathedral is open to visitors, but the coronavirus scare has it closed except for services.
When I first presented to go to Sunday mass I was denied entrance and a local lady pointed to a sign restricting visitors. I foolishly tried to tell her in English that I wanted to go to mass and she kept shaking her head and pointing to the sign. Finally I made the sign of the cross and said catholic several times and she allowed me to pass. If you are persistent, you may get in.
Written 29 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

kingvikramaditya
Dehradun, India584 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2020 • Solo
St Joseph's Cathedral is a true Hanoian site located within the Old Quarter of the town. The building is reminiscent of the French Gothic style and was built when Vietnam was under French control. It usually remains open for visitors and the entry is absolutely free.
Written 23 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia19,509 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2024 • Family
We've been on a big Vietnam 15 days tour from south to north. As the whole region was under French rule for around 150 years, they left many significant edifices all over.
St. Joseph's Cathedral was the most beautiful French Church we saw in all Vietnam, built in 1886, much better than those in HCMC, Da Nang or smaller towns.
Two Gothic spires dominate the Old quarter, with very nice interior.
Don't expect Paris Notre Dame many refer to, but certainly a Church worth visiting.

BEWARE just not to sit at Vivienne Cafe on the square in front of it (scammers and heavily overpriced). We did that to relax and enjoy the Cathedral but regretted.
Written 10 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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St. Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi

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