Lotte Observation Deck: Overview, Things to Do, Ticket Prices & Travel Guide

Perched high above Hanoi, the Lotte Observation Deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city. As an architectural marvel and must-visit attraction, it offers sweeping panoramic views of Hanoi. The experience captures both the modern pulse and historical charm of Vietnam's capital. If you're a seasoned traveler or seeking unique experiences, the observation deck offers thrilling views and perfect photo ops for your social media.

Join us as we delve into what makes this spot so special, without giving everything away upfront. At GTrip, we’ll guide you through the breathtaking views and unique architectural features that set this observation deck apart. Discover why GTrip recommends it as a must-visit destination and why it deserves a top spot on every travel enthusiast's list. Get ready to add an unforgettable highlight to your Hanoi adventure with GTrip!

Overview of Lotte Observation Deck

Location: 65th floor of Lotte Center Hanoi at 54 Lieu Giai, Ngoc Khanh Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi

Opening hours: Daily from 09:30 AM to 10:30 PM

Entrance fee:

Perched atop the impressive Lotte Center in Vietnam's capital, the Lotte Observation Deck offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic experiences in Hanoi. Located on the 65th floor of Lotte Center Hanoi at 54 Lieu Giai, Ngoc Khanh Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, this sky-high attraction sits 272 meters above ground level. It provides visitors with spectacular 360-degree views of Hanoi's evolving cityscape. Opened in 2014, this architectural marvel blends Vietnam's heritage with modern ambition, making it a top Hanoi attraction.

What truly distinguishes the Lotte Observation Deck is its innovative design features. The glass floor sections create heart-racing experiences as visitors appear to float above the bustling cityscape below. This "island in the sky" sensation provides a unique perspective of Hanoi that combines exhilaration with appreciation for the city's layout. You can trace the winding Red River, spot historical landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, and observe how ancient pagodas contrast with gleaming skyscrapers.

A recent addition to Hanoi’s skyline, the observation deck reflects the city’s rapid growth while honoring Vietnamese culture through subtle design. The deck blends Vietnamese aesthetics with modern design, reflecting Hanoi’s balance between tradition and progress. For photographers, culture enthusiasts, and those simply seeking a different perspective on Vietnam's capital, it offers an unforgettable aerial glimpse of a dynamic city.

At 272 meters high, the Lotte Observation Deck offers stunning 360° views of Hanoi, blending modern design with Vietnamese heritage

6 things to do at Lotte Observation Deck

Lotte Observation Deck offers visitors a thrilling array of activities and experiences that go well beyond simply admiring the view. Glass-floor thrills, cultural touches and sunset views, this Hanoi landmark offers unique experiences 272 meters up. Here's what you can experience during your visit to this spectacular viewpoint.

1. Experience the thrill of the skywalk

The Skywalk at Lotte Observation Deck offers an adrenaline-pumping experience that combines breathtaking views with the sensation of walking on air. Standing on the glass floor 272 meters above Hanoi feels like floating on air with only clear glass beneath your feet.

The West Skywalk provides the most magical experience during sunset hours, when the entire city is bathed in golden-red hues. Visitors often describe the sensation as both terrifying and exhilarating, a perfect combination for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts alike.

2. Enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of Hanoi

The observation deck's most celebrated feature is its uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic views extending across the entire Hanoi metropolis and beyond. On clear days, visitors can spot landmarks up to 20-30 kilometers away, making it the ultimate vantage point for understanding Hanoi's layout and architecture.

From this elevation, you can trace the winding Red River, admire the lush greenery of West Lake, and spot historical sites like the Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The deck features high-powered binoculars at strategic points, allowing you to zoom in on specific areas of interest throughout the city. The views transform dramatically from day to night, offering two completely different experiences depending on your visiting time.

Offering sweeping 360° views, the Lotte Observation Deck lets visitors spot Hanoi’s key landmarks, even from 30 km away

3. Enjoy the AR artistic gallery

The AR gallery at Lotte Observation Deck represents a fusion of cutting-edge technology and artistic expression. Unlike traditional galleries, this innovative space allows you to interact directly with digital artworks that respond to movement and touch, creating a personalised artistic experience.

The gallery features rotating exhibitions from both Vietnamese and international digital artists. Visitors use their smartphones or the provided tablets to scan QR codes throughout the space, bringing static imagery to life with animations, music, and interactive elements. The gallery's floor-to-ceiling windows incorporate the Hanoi skyline into many of the pieces, blending virtual and physical worlds.

• Interactive installations: Touch-responsive light displays that change based on visitor movement
• Cultural exhibitions: AR showcases of Vietnamese heritage sites and historical moments
• Photo opportunities: Special AR frames that add digital elements to your photos
• Educational components: Information about Hanoi landmarks is viewable through AR overlays
• Seasonal themes: Changing digital exhibitions aligned with Vietnamese holidays and seasons

4. Capture memorable photos

The Lotte Observation Deck offers numerous Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, with the lantern space being particularly popular among visitors. This dedicated area features hundreds of traditional Vietnamese and Korean lanterns suspended from the ceiling. They create a warm, golden ambiance that contrasts beautifully with the city views beyond.

The deck offers traditional costume rentals, letting visitors dress in authentic Vietnamese ao dai or Korean hanbok. These colorful, flowing garments create stunning silhouettes against the floor-to-ceiling windows and make for unique cultural souvenirs to remember your visit by.

The Lotte Observation Deck is a photo lover’s dream, with its lantern-lit space and traditional costume rentals offering unforgettable, Instagram-worthy shots

5. Experience Love Garden

The Love Garden creates a serene oasis high above the city, a perfect retreat for couples or anyone seeking a moment of tranquility among the excitement. The deck offers traditional costume rentals, letting visitors dress in authentic Vietnamese ao dai or Korean hanbok.

The centerpiece of the garden is the Wish Tree, where visitors can write messages on decorative cards and hang them on the branches. According to local tradition, wishes made at this exceptional height are more likely to be heard. The garden's strategic position offers spectacular sunset views, making it a popular spot for marriage proposals and anniversary celebrations.

• Wish tree tradition: Write your hopes and dreams on cards provided by staff
• Couple photo zones: Heart-shaped frames and romantic lighting setups
• Seasonal flowers: Different blooms throughout the year reflecting Vietnamese seasons
• Seating areas: Comfortable benches positioned for optimal views
• Special packages: Anniversary and proposal packages available with advance booking

6. Watch the sunset chill at the highest floor of Lotte Center

Witnessing sunset from the observation deck's highest floor ranks among Hanoi's most breathtaking experiences. As daylight fades, the city transforms before your eyes, office lights flicker on, streets become rivers of headlights, and the sky performs a spectacular color show ranging from gold to deep purple.

The deck's western side features tiered seating specifically designed for sunset viewing, allowing visitors to relax comfortably while witnessing this daily spectacle. The adjacent cafe serves sunset-themed beverages and snacks, including the signature "Hanoi Horizon" cocktail that changes color as you drink it, mimicking the sky's transformation. For photography enthusiasts, staff can recommend the perfect spots and timing to capture this magical transition from day to night.

Watching the sunset from the Lotte Observation Deck is a must in Hanoi, with tiered seating, scenic views, and a sky that shifts from gold to deep purple

How to get to the Lotte Observation Deck in the Lotte Center Building?

Reaching Hanoi's iconic Lotte Observation Deck is straightforward with multiple transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets. Located in the upscale Ba Dinh District at 54 Lieu Giai Street, the Lotte Center is easily accessible whether you're coming from the Old Quarter, West Lake area, or other parts of the city. Once you arrive at the building, simply take the dedicated high-speed elevator that whisks visitors from the ground floor directly to the observation deck in just 50 seconds.

By bus

Hanoi's extensive bus network offers an affordable way to reach the Lotte Center, with several routes passing near the building:

• Route E07: Departs from 36 Ly Thai To Street and traverses through central areas, including Hai Ba Trung and Dien Bien Phu, before reaching Kim Ma Street. Disembark at the 2/2C Station in the Diplomatic Area, then walk approximately 500m to reach the Lotte Center.
• Route 34: Begins at 30-32 Trang Tien Street and runs to 10 Dao Tan - Institute of Physics. You'll need to walk just 280m (about 4-5 minutes) to reach your destination, making this one of the more convenient bus options.
• Route 09A: Starts from 6-8 Trang Thi Street, passing through Dien Bien Phu and Dao Tan streets. Exit at Hanoi International School (48 Lieu Giai) and walk a short 130m to the Lotte Center entrance.

By taxi or ride-hailing apps

For convenient door-to-door service, taxis and ride-hailing apps provide comfortable transportation directly to the Lotte Center:

Reputable taxi companies:

• G7 Taxi
• Mai Linh Taxi
• VinaSun Taxi

Popular ride-hailing apps:

• Grab
• Be
• Xanh SM

Simply specify "Lotte Center Hanoi" or "54 Lieu Giai Street, Ba Dinh District" as your destination. Fares typically range from 70,000-150,000 VND ($3-6) depending on your starting location, with trips from the Old Quarter averaging around 80,000 VND ($3.50). Most taxis accept cash payment, while ride-hailing apps offer both cash and digital payment options.

By motorbike or motorbike taxi

Motorbikes represent the quintessential Hanoi transportation experience and provide flexible mobility through the city's often congested streets:

Rental options:

• Self-drive rentals from 100,000-150,000 VND per day ($4-6.50)
• Require an international driving permit and confidence in navigating busy Vietnamese traffic

Motorbike ride-hailing services:

• Grab Bike: 40,000-70,000 VND ($1.70-3.00) from most central locations
• Be: Similar pricing to Grab with occasional promotions
• Xanh SM: Premium service with slightly higher rates but newer vehicles

By car

For those with access to private vehicles or rental cars, the Lotte Center Hanoi offers underground parking facilities. When arriving by car, follow signs to the basement parking levels B1-B5. After parking, take the elevator from the parking area to the main lobby on the ground floor. From there, follow signs to the dedicated observation deck elevators that will transport you to the 65th floor.

No matter how you arrive, take the high-speed elevator inside Lotte Center to reach the observation deck. These elevators are marked in the main lobby and will rapidly transport you to experience Hanoi's breathtaking panoramic views.

Tips for a memorable visit to Lotte Observation Deck

Visiting the Lotte Observation Deck requires a bit of planning to maximize your experience and capture those perfect panoramic moments of Hanoi. Here are essential tips to ensure your visit rises above expectations, from timing your arrival to making the most of the facilities.

1. Visit during golden hour by arriving 1-2 hours before sunset to enjoy both daytime and nighttime views.
2. Check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies for the best visibility and photo opportunities.
3. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod for capturing panoramic shots, and a lens cloth for cleaning glass surfaces.
4. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues and save with combination or tourist pass options.
5. Dress comfortably with layers and bring a light jacket due to strong air conditioning and temperature changes.
6. Experience the glass skywalk early before crowds arrive and enjoy refreshments at the coffee shop with window seating.
7. Use photography tips like positioning your camera close to the glass and visiting the outdoor terrace for unobstructed views.
8. Allocate 1.5-2 hours for the visit, use restrooms on lower floors, and note the last elevator time around 10:30 PM.

To make the most of your visit, plan, arrive before sunset, check the weather, book tickets online, and bring the right gear for stunning panoramic shots

FAQs about Lotte Observation Deck

Visitors to Lotte Observation Deck often have questions about accessibility, duration of stay, and suitability for different types of travelers. Below, we address the most frequently asked questions to help you plan your visit more effectively and ensure you have all the information needed for an enjoyable experience.

Is the Lotte Observation Deck suitable for children?

Lotte Observation Deck is an excellent destination for families traveling with children of all ages. The observation deck offers several child-friendly features that make it an engaging experience for young visitors:

• Interactive exhibits: Children can enjoy various interactive displays that explain Hanoi's geography and history in an engaging way
• Special viewing platforms: Lower railings and step-ups are available at certain spots so children can enjoy the same spectacular views as adults
• Safety measures: The deck is completely enclosed with shatterproof glass panels, providing peace of mind for parents
• Photo opportunities: Dedicated spots for family photos with props that children particularly enjoy

The Top of Hanoi restaurant also offers a kids' menu with child-friendly options. During holidays, the observation deck hosts kids’ events like face painting, balloon artists, and scavenger hunts.

Can I stay on the deck as long as I want?

Visitors can remain at the Lotte Observation Deck for as long as desired during operating hours, with no time restrictions once you've purchased your ticket. However, there are a few important considerations:

Operating hours and admission:

• Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:30 PM)
• Special holiday hours may apply (check the official website)
• Your ticket is valid for one entry only - if you leave, you'll need to purchase another ticket to re-enter

Most visitors spend 1 - 2 hours enjoying the view, taking photos, and grabbing a drink or meal. During sunset hours (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, depending on the season), the deck becomes particularly crowded, so plan accordingly if you wish to stay during this popular time.

Is the observation deck accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Lotte Observation Deck is designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities, offering several accommodations to ensure everyone can enjoy the panoramic views of Hanoi:

Accessibility features include:

The staff are trained to assist visitors with disabilities, and wheelchairs can be borrowed by contacting the customer service desk in advance. It's recommended to call ahead if you require any specific accommodations, as staff can arrange for personalized assistance to ensure your visit is comfortable and enjoyable.

As you stand atop the Lotte Observation Deck, gazing at the dazzling skyline that stretches as far as the eye can see, a sense of wonder envelops you. This journey through such a breathtaking vantage point has filled your heart with awe and expanded your horizons in more ways than one. You've discovered a remarkable confluence of stunning architecture and vibrant cultural offerings right here.

Snapping photos or simply taking it all in, this visit will be a memorable part of your journey. It's a place that leaves a lasting impression. If you're inspired to explore more extraordinary facets of city skylines and iconic buildings, consider diving into guides that uncover hidden gems like this one. As you've seen today, there's always another spectacular view waiting just around the corner with GTrip’s insights by your side.