Old Quarter Hanoi
Hanoi's Old Quarter is a captivating maze of historic streets, vibrant markets, and delicious street food, offering an unforgettable sensory experienc...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Street performances & lively atmosphere
Old Quarter Hanoi
Best Time
Street performances & lively atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hanoi's Old Quarter is a captivating maze of historic streets, vibrant markets, and delicious street food, offering an unforgettable sensory experience.
"It's chaotic in the best way, so shop, eat, drink, and just enjoy the vibes and the incredible views."
🎯 Embrace the Traffic
Crossing streets is an art! Wait for a gap, walk steadily, and don't make sudden moves.
☕ Sip Egg Coffee
Don't leave without trying the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang. It's a must-try!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hoan Kiem Lake
Center of the Old Quarter
A serene oasis amidst the city buzz, perfect for morning strolls or evening people-watching.
Egg Coffee
Cafe Giang and others
Indulge in Hanoi's iconic creamy, rich egg coffee – a unique local delicacy you must try.
Old Quarter Streets
Throughout the Old Quarter
Wander through the 36 historic streets, each historically dedicated to a specific trade.
Dong Xuan Market
North end of the Old Quarter
Hanoi's largest covered market, offering everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chaos
Weekend Lakefront Magic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Traffic
Crossing streets is an art! Wait for a gap, walk steadily, and don't make sudden moves.
☕ Sip Egg Coffee
Don't leave without trying the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang. It's a must-try! +1
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Hanoi's Old Quarter is a shopper's paradise, especially for vintage finds and unique boutiques. +2
🍜 Savor Street Food
Explore the food alleys, especially around Dong Xuan Market, for authentic and delicious local eats.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Traffic
Crossing streets is an art! Wait for a gap, walk steadily, and don't make sudden moves.
☕ Sip Egg Coffee
Don't leave without trying the famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang. It's a must-try! +1
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
Hanoi's Old Quarter is a shopper's paradise, especially for vintage finds and unique boutiques. +2
🍜 Savor Street Food
Explore the food alleys, especially around Dong Xuan Market, for authentic and delicious local eats.
🚶 Wander the Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is beautiful, especially when it's pedestrian-only on weekend evenings. +1
💆♀️ Indulge in a Head Spa
Experience a relaxing and viral head spa treatment in the Old Quarter for ultimate pampering.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Old Quarter's vibrant atmosphere, delicious street food, and unique shopping opportunities. The chaotic charm and sensory overload are often highlighted as key aspects of the experience. Some find the traffic and crowds overwhelming, and navigating can be challenging for first-time visitors.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN). From the airport, you can take a taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or a bus to the Old Quarter. Taxis and Grab are convenient but can be more expensive. Buses are a budget-friendly option. +1
Walking is the best way to explore the Old Quarter's narrow streets. However, be prepared for busy sidewalks and a unique traffic flow. Google Maps is helpful for navigation.
Crossing the street in Hanoi can be daunting! The key is to walk at a steady pace, make eye contact with drivers if possible, and don't stop or make sudden movements. Drivers are accustomed to this and will navigate around you.
While walking is primary, you can also use ride-sharing apps like Grab for longer distances within the Old Quarter or to nearby attractions. Some visitors also opt for cyclo rides for a more traditional experience.
Yes, the French Quarter is adjacent to the Old Quarter and easily walkable. Many attractions in both districts are within a 20-minute walk of each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Old Quarter itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. However, specific attractions within or near the Old Quarter, like museums or temples, may have admission fees.
Dong Xuan Market is generally open daily from around 7 AM to 7 PM. The night market section often extends later.
Hoan Kiem Lake is a public space and free to access. However, if you wish to visit Ngoc Son Temple on the island, there is a small entrance fee.
Tickets for the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre are very affordable, often around $1.73 USD, making it a great budget-friendly activity.
Absolutely! Wandering the streets, people-watching by Hoan Kiem Lake, and exploring the general atmosphere of the Old Quarter are all free and highly recommended experiences.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include wandering the 36 historic streets, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, exploring Dong Xuan Market, and experiencing the unique atmosphere. Don't miss trying egg coffee! +1
The best way is to immerse yourself! Walk the streets, try the street food, shop at the boutiques, and soak in the vibrant energy. Consider a guided walking tour for deeper insights. +1
Yes! Try the viral head spa treatments, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, or visit the 'Train Street' for a unique perspective (check current accessibility). +2
Many streets offer great shopping, but look for vintage stores on streets like Hang Ma and explore boutiques for local designers. Lulou is a recommended boutique. +1
The Old Quarter is generally safe at night, with many areas bustling with activity. However, as with any busy tourist area, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), Pho (noodle soup), and Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich). Egg coffee is also a signature drink. +1
Cafe Giang is widely considered the birthplace of egg coffee and is highly recommended. Cafe Pho Co also offers great egg coffee with a view. +1
The Old Quarter is a street food haven! Look for vendors around Dong Xuan Market and explore the smaller alleys for authentic dishes like Banh Cuon and various noodle soups. +1
For Pho, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is a local favorite. For Banh Mi, Banh Mi 25 and Banh Mi Mama are popular choices. Tam Vi offers a Michelin-starred experience at a lower price point.
Eating in the Old Quarter can be very budget-friendly, especially if you stick to street food and local eateries. Fine dining options are also available at higher price points. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful streets themselves, the bustling markets, Hoan Kiem Lake, the French colonial architecture, and the vibrant street food scenes offer endless photographic opportunities. +2
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the essence of the streets. Golden hour (late afternoon) also provides beautiful light. Weekend evenings are vibrant but crowded.
Hang Ma Street is famous for its colorful decorations, especially during festivals. The narrow alleyways and hidden cafes also make for unique shots.
It's generally polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors. However, capturing the general street life and atmosphere is common.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for street photography. A wide-angle lens can capture the narrow streets, and a prime lens is good for low-light conditions in cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Food-wise, many Vietnamese dishes are kid-friendly. Pho and Banh Mi are generally well-received by younger palates. Look for cafes with more space or consider visiting during less crowded weekday mornings to avoid overwhelming your children. Hoan Kiem Lake offers a bit of open space for them to stretch their legs, especially on weekend evenings when it's pedestrianized.
💰 Budget Travelers
Shopping can also be done on a budget, especially if you're looking for souvenirs or vintage clothing. Remember to haggle politely for better prices. Utilize Grab for affordable transportation, and consider walking as much as possible to save on fares.
couples
Enjoying the diverse street food scene together can be a fun and intimate experience. Try different dishes from various vendors and savor the local flavors. Consider a double-decker bus tour in the evening for a romantic overview of the illuminated city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Streets of the Old Quarter
For longer distances or when your feet need a rest, Grab (Southeast Asia's version of Uber) is readily available and a convenient option. Taxis are also an option, but ensure the meter is used. Some visitors enjoy the novelty of a cyclo ride, offering a slower-paced way to see the streets, though it's important to agree on a price beforehand.
Google Maps is a reliable tool for finding specific locations, but don't be afraid to get a little lost. Some of the most charming discoveries are made when you wander off the main paths and stumble upon hidden cafes, local workshops, or quiet courtyards.
A Culinary Journey Through Hanoi's Old Quarter
Beyond these staples, the Old Quarter is brimming with other culinary delights. Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung) is a unique Hanoi specialty, a rich, creamy concoction that tastes more like a dessert than a coffee. You can find it at legendary spots like Cafe Giang. For a more adventurous palate, explore dishes like Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls) or Bun Dau Mam Tom (fermented shrimp paste noodle dish).
Street food is an integral part of the Old Quarter experience. Many vendors set up shop along the sidewalks, offering authentic flavors at incredibly affordable prices. Dong Xuan Market and its surrounding alleys are particularly renowned for their diverse food stalls. For a more refined dining experience, consider restaurants like Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su or the Michelin-recommended Tam Vi.
Shopping Delights in the Old Quarter
Beyond vintage clothing, you'll find boutiques showcasing local designers and artisans, offering everything from handmade bags and accessories to unique art prints. Explore streets like Lulou for these curated finds. The Old Quarter Night Market, held on weekends, is another fantastic place to hunt for souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks.
While the Old Quarter is known for its affordable shopping, it's also a place where you can find quality goods. Be prepared to haggle politely for the best prices, especially in smaller shops and markets. It's all part of the fun and cultural experience of shopping in Hanoi.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit