Hoan Kiem Lake is the center of Hanoi, South of it lies an upscale neighborhood with expensive restaurants and bars. North of the lake lies the Tourist French District, with its souvenir shops, its cheap restaurants and hotels. North West of the lake lies the citadel and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Farther North, lies the impressive West Lake, with its nice bars and restaurants. East of Hoan Kiem Lake lies the Red River. Southwest of Hoan Kiem are some interesting sites, one you should not miss is the Temple of Literature.