Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Hoa Lo Prison, originally built by the French colonial authorities in the late 19th century, is a haunting museum in central Hanoi that tells the story of Vietnam's fight for independence. The prison was used to hold Vietnamese political prisoners, who endured harsh conditions and torture. During the Vietnam War, it housed American prisoners of war, including Senator John McCain. The museum preserves the original cells, guillotine room, and exhibits detailing the prisoners' lives. The contrast between the grim colonial-era cells and the relatively better conditions for American pilots is striking. Visitors can see artifacts, photographs, and dioramas that evoke the prison's grim past. Despite its dark history, the museum offers a balanced perspective, making it a thought-provoking stop for understanding Vietnam's modern history.

Don't miss

• Guillotine room: The original guillotine used for executions, with a chilling display.
• American POW section: Exhibits showing the living conditions of captured US pilots, including John McCain's flight suit.
• Vietnamese political prisoner cells: Reconstructed cramped cells and shackles used for torture.
• The original prison gate: The iconic entrance that has been preserved.
• Documentary screening: A short film about the prison's history shown in the museum.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Cheapest way inPrivate Walking Tour of Hanoi City4.9★ · 1,388 travelers3–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Best full dayNinh Binh Day Tour To Visit Hoa Lu - Trang An/Tam Coc - Mua Cave4.9★ · 1,472 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$52 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Guided Tour of Hanoi5★ · 394 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• Allow 1-2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and watch the documentary.
• Photography is allowed, but be respectful in the more somber areas.
• Read up on the history beforehand to better appreciate the context.
• Audio guides are available and provide detailed commentary.

A bit of history

Built by the French in 1896, Hoa Lo Prison was used to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries. During the Vietnam War, it held American POWs, who ironically nicknamed it the 'Hanoi Hilton'. The prison was largely demolished in the 1990s, but the remaining gatehouse and cells form the museum.