If you’re visiting Vietnam for the first time, Hanoi Old Quarter is likely to be your first stop, known for its historic charm, cultural landmarks and vibrant streets. From exploring ancient architecture to enjoying street food and shopping at bustling markets, there are plenty of fun things to do at Hanoi Old Quarter. So, if you’re ready to immerse yourself in the rich history and modern attractions of this neighborhood, our guide below will give you some of our tried and tested suggestions for the best things to do at Hanoi Old Quarter for a truly unforgettable experience.
Tops things to do at Hanoi Old Quarter
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
Walking around Hoan Kiem Lake, a natural freshwater lake in the heart of the city, is definitely one of the best things to do in Hanoi. Considered the heart and soul of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake is a picturesque, historical lake with a fascinating story behind its name, which translates to Returning Sword Lake in Vietnamese. Plus, its central location between many famous streets in the Old Quarter and great tourist attractions makes walking around the lake a great way to explore the ancient landscape of the capital.
The iconic Turtle Tower at the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake
You will definitely enjoy your time here, Hoan Kiem Lake can bring you a sense of peace in the middle of a busy city. It is like the heart of Hanoi, a meeting place for locals and tourists to enjoy the calm waters, exercise or relax after busy working days. Relax with a delicious iced coffee or enjoy some street food as you take in the beautiful views of the lake and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. On weekends, the area becomes a walking street, packed with street stalls selling all sorts of products and also vibrant cultural performances.
For some of the best views of the lake, you can visit Ngoc Son Temple. Connected to the mainland by the famous red bridge (The Huc Bridge), the temple is built in a typical Vietnamese style, this place of worship represents the fusion of Vietnamese cultures and beliefs through its intricate sculptures and carvings.
Pro tips:
- Come to Hoan Kiem Lake early in the morning, around 5:30–7:00 am, to really soak up the peaceful and authentic atmosphere of Hanoi, from groups of elderly people practicing tai chi and walking to street vendors preparing their morning food stalls.
- After a stroll along the lake, don’t miss the long-standing shops hidden deep in the alleys around the lake such as Dinh cafe, Pho Ly Quoc Su,…
- If you visit on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday evening, don’t miss the night walking street around the lake. It is the entertainment and gathering center for locals and tourists, with street games, snacks and cultural performances.
Take a photo check-in on the old town
Some iconic photo spots in Hanoi Old Quarter
When entering Hanoi Old Quarter, visitors will be impressed by the unique setting of each street corner, each alley and the time-stained walls. Just leaning against the wall or “pretending” to pass by the street, you will easily take many beautiful photos. Strolling through these streets is like stepping into another era. The centuries-old houses have faded colors and ancient architecture bring a sense of nostalgia and peace, while the daily life of the people still goes on: The walkways are packed with parked motorbikes and street stalls selling everything – fruits, cooking utensils, textiles, silverware, creating a bustling and somewhat chaotic scene. But it is this contrasting chaos that makes Hanoi Old Quarter an interesting place to explore.
Pro tips:
- Try to arrive early in the morning, preferably before 8 AM, as the streets are not crowded and the light is soft and perfect for taking photos.
- The best photo spots are often in small alleys, so the best way is to walk. You can even find hidden photo spots, such as ancient doors or old walls covered with ivy, etc.
- Don’t hesitate to chat with the street vendors, many are happy to let you take photos of their stalls, just be polite, friendly and perhaps support them with a small purchase.
> > > If you’re passionate about photography or just love capturing special moments, don’t miss our guide to the Best Places to Take Beautiful Photos in Hanoi, from hidden alleys to iconic landmarks, it’s a must-read for any visual storyteller.
Enjoy Hanoi’s culinary scene
Simply put, eating is one of the best things to do in Hanoi. Hanoi is renowned for its cuisine – and offers a wide range of delicacies for every taste and budget. Hanoi Old Quarter is a paradise for street food lovers, where every corner is a gateway to Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage. In our experience, one of the best ways to experience the true flavors of Hanoi is to book a street food tour run by locals. You’ll learn about the history of the food, sample famous dishes from local favorites that you might not find in print, and get a real taste.
The world-famous street food of Hanoi
Some of the most popular dishes in Hanoi include Pho (pronounced ‘fuh’), Banh Mi, crispy fried spring rolls and fresh spring rolls, each offering a traditional twist. There is nothing better than enjoying a delicious bowl of bun cha or a bowl of famous beef pho after walking around the streets of Hanoi. You will never forget the first taste of Pho in the morning from an unknown cafe in the old quarter, the smoky smell of the warm broth, the rich taste of beef and the delicate balance of herbs.
Pro tips:
- A great tip I’ve learned from my travels is that to find the best and most authentic food, choose the ones with a lot of locals. In Hanoi, the best food is often found in the smallest, most humble places, which can be just a small stall with low plastic chairs and no English menu.
- Local food stalls in the Old Quarter almost only accept cash or bank transfers via local apps, so the easiest way if you are a foreigner is to use cash.
- Don’t worry if you can’t communicate with locals, use google translate or point at the dish you want to try. Don’t be afraid to sit next to a local, they are very friendly and can show you the right way to eat to enjoy the most unforgettable taste.
Try Hanoi’s coffee culture
The coffee culture in Vietnam is quite strong – if you like good coffee then you really want to try Vietnamese Coffee. There are so many different options to try, using yogurt, avocado, coconut, egg coffee, condensed milk and drip coffee. It can be extremely sweet, but the aroma and the whole experience (especially if you try a cup from a street vendor) is a wonderful, unique thing to do when visiting Hanoi.
Enjoying Hanoi’s coffee on the go in the Old Quarter
In Hanoi Old Quarter, you can find the famous Vietnamese coffee in the best places – with just a plastic chair on a humble sidewalk, you can enjoy your own Vietnamese coffee culture. There are also coffee shops almost everywhere. For the full Hanoi experience, pair your egg coffee with a crispy baguette or a piece of sticky rice with green rice flakes.
Then, find a cozy spot by the window and soak in the gentle hum of the city as it wakes up – the sound of motorbikes, footsteps, and the soft chatter of locals. I’ve had some of the best coffee I’ve ever had on my travels across the country. Some standout cafes I recommend for your trip include Giang Coffee, Dinh Coffee, Cong Coffee, The Note Coffee, and more.
Pro tips:
- The best time to enjoy coffee in Hanoi is in the morning or late afternoon, try to go on weekdays to avoid the crowd. Imagine enjoying a cup of iced coffee at a sidewalk cafe in a small alley, watching the old houses around, the sounds of street vendors,… will definitely leave you with a peaceful and memorable experience.
- Try learning from the locals: order some food with your coffee. It can be bread, mixed fruit and most popular is green rice, which is extremely suitable for cups of egg coffee and iced milk coffee.
- If you don’t want it sweet, don’t hesitate to say “it ngot” (meaning less sweet) when ordering a drink with the staff.
> > > Curious about what makes Vietnamese coffee so unique and beloved? Dive deeper into the rich traditions, brewing styles, and cultural stories in our full guide: Vietnamese Coffee: A Drink of Country Spirit.
Experience the thrill of Hanoi’s Train Street
No trip to Hanoi Old Quarter is complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring organized chaos of Train Street, a tourist destination that has exploded on social media. It’s a narrow, working railway track where passing trains carve a path between houses and cafes just inches apart, creating a sense of excitement and uniqueness. The most popular stretch of the Old Quarter runs through Phung Hung and Tran Phu streets, where visitors can watch the trains pass by while enjoying a coffee from nearby cafes.
Train Street Hanoi, a unique urban spectacle
Imagine sitting relaxing in a quaint cafe, and suddenly the quiet buzz of the street turns into a wave of excitement as a train approaches. Vendors rush to lower their stalls like origami, deftly avoiding an oncoming locomotive by mere seconds. Tourists press themselves against the walls, capturing the surreal moment as the train whizzes by, close enough to touch. The whole scene is both cinematic and heart-pounding.
Pro tips:
- Check the train schedules in advance, you can ask the hotel reception. The best train viewing time is usually 3:30 PM to 7 PM, arrive at least 30 minutes early to find a good seat, especially on weekends this area will be very crowded and may be congested.
- There are many cafes along both sides of the train tracks, choose the one that suits your taste and check the cafe reviews on the map for the best experience.
- If you don’t want to be crowded in the cafes, you can go in the morning, there are still a few trains at this time. The street will be quieter and the light will be softer for you to capture memorable moments.
Roam around the old town by traditional Vietnamese means: cyclo
If you don’t like walking, another great way to get around the Old Quarter is by cyclo. This experience offers new and exciting moments that bring you closer to the life and culture of Hanoi. Although cyclos are mainly for tourists now, in the past they were one of the main means of transportation. The image of cyclo drivers and the clanging sound have been associated with the lives of Hanoians since the early 20th century, creating the traditional culture and lifestyle of the beautiful Hanoi Old Quarter.
The cyclo drivers here are very polite, enthusiastic and have the ability to communicate in basic English so that foreign visitors do not feel confused. Sitting on it, you will listen to inspirational stories from the cyclo drivers about old Hanoi, about the streets, about the ancient houses that have overcome the test of time.
Cyclo ride through Hanoi Old Quarter
When traveling by cyclo, you can film, take photos, comfortably watch and admire the relics and ancient features of Hanoi without being overwhelmed by its hustle and bustle. Imagine sitting on a cyclo watching Hanoi in the early morning with fresh air, with each turn of the wheel, the Turtle Tower in Hoan Kiem Lake gradually appears in the mist until the pretty little streets in the old town all bring you a strange sense of peace.
Pro tips:
- Negotiate the price before you start your trip, make sure it is for one person or a trip to avoid being overcharged. Prices vary depending on the distance and time you want to travel, ask a few cyclo drivers before deciding to get the best price.
- Take a cyclo in the afternoon, just before sunset. Although it may be hotter and there will be more traffic, the scenery is extremely beautiful with the golden sunlight shining on the ancient buildings and lantern-lit streets.
Explore some iconic tourist attractions
If you want to learn more about Vietnam’s history, culture and religious aspects, visit some of the iconic sites in the Old Quarter, but be warned, you will need to make sure your legs and arms are covered when visiting temples or cultural sites.
- Ma May Ancient House: If you want to see the living space of Hanoians and the characteristics of an old street, you should not miss the ancient house at 87 Ma May Street. Built in the 19th century, this well-preserved gem exudes the timeless charm of traditional Vietnamese architecture, with its tranquil courtyards, rustic wooden interiors and beautifully detailed carvings. Every corner holds a piece of history, giving visitors a rare glimpse into the daily life and customs of Hanoians many generations ago. If you are lucky enough to visit on some special occasions, you will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional music such as Ca Tru.
- Bach Ma Temple: Located at 76 – 78 Hang Buom Street, Bach Ma Temple was built in the 9th century. As a thousand-year-old historical and cultural relic, the temple is covered with a layer of moss, adding to its nostalgic and ancient beauty. The temple is considered a spiritual and historical site, so it has attracted many locals and tourists to visit and pray for many years.
- Long Bien Bridge: This is the first steel bridge in Vietnam built by the French in 1898. Witnessing the two resistance wars against France and America, the bridge is considered an immortal symbol witnessing the unforgettable memories of the arduous war. The bridge connecting the two banks of the Red River is 2,290 meters long, with 3 lanes for trains and motor vehicles. Long Bien Bridge is not only used for transportation but also to preserve historical memories.
- Hang Ma Street: It is considered the most crowded and vibrant street among the 36 ancient streets of Hanoi. Famous for its traditional craft of making oil paper for offerings and paper decorations, this place is considered a paradise of traditional items bearing the mark of the ancients. Visiting Hang Ma Street on every holiday, you will be impressed by the colorful, sparkling and magical space from the decorative lights that are characteristic of each different holiday, especially on big holidays such as Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival and Christmas.
- Dong Xuan Market: This is the oldest and most famous market in Hanoi Old Quarter, offering a wide range of products such as clothes, shoes, candies, toys, fabrics, souvenirs and food, etc. Especially, when coming to the market on weekend evenings, you will have the opportunity to visit the night market here, there are many popular eateries with the most famous dishes of the capital, definitely an interesting experience for those who want to explore and enjoy Hanoi cuisine.
- Hanoi Cathedral: A slice of Gothic architecture among the motorbike-filled streets, fragrant with the smell of pho of the Vietnamese capital. Modeled after the design of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, the Cathedral has two towering bell towers and a beautiful large rose window on the facade. The vaulted ceiling creates a sense of grandeur and the altar, surrounded by candles and icons, stands as a contrasting point of the cathedral. You will probably love the area around the church, another gathering place for locals, especially young people, with breweries, cafes and street food.
Pro tips:
- If you plan to visit many attractions in 1 day, it is best to start early to avoid queues. Pay attention to the opening hours of the attractions as some may close at noon. In the meantime, you can take advantage of lunch, return to the hotel or stop at a cafe to rest before continuing in the afternoon.
- Although we always encourage you to explore the old town on foot, if the destination is far from your accommodation, book a car through the application to move because the hot weather can make you feel tired.
- Many attractions sell tickets online through ticket booking sites or websites, you can book in advance to save time queuing to buy tickets when you arrive.
Some of the most famous tourist destinations in the area
Enjoy Hanoi’s water puppet show for a cultural experience
The Thang Long Water Puppet Show is a great activity and we would recommend it to anyone visiting Hanoi, especially if it is your first time here. It is a great way to enjoy the ancient art of puppetry and offers an insight into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Water puppetry has been practiced for over a thousand years and the plays performed by talented artists in each show are based on myths and legends from Vietnam’s history.
A traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Theatre
The theatre’s stage is a lake, the actors performing intricately carved wooden puppets are guided by the invisible hands of skilled puppeteers behind a bamboo curtain, beautifully recounting everyday life, folklore and legends with a mix of humor, artistry and a touch of magic. Each show lasts around 50 minutes and there are various performances throughout the day and into the evening. All performances are in Vietnamese but you can rent an audio guide at the theatre, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the fascinating stories. I watched the performance like this and found it quite easy to follow.
Pro tips:
- Book your tickets in advance, especially for evening shows. The 6:30 and 8 PM shows are the most popular and tend to sell out quickly, so you can book through an agent or go to the theater early to buy your tickets.
- In my experience, the best seats are around the center, around rows 4-6. You’ll get a great view without being too close to the water – trust me, splashes can happen!
- Since the shows are in Vietnamese, rent an audio guide. It will help you follow the action and understand the meaning behind the folk tales.
Go to Ta Hien Street and drink Hanoi Beer
Known as the “street that never sleeps” in the heart of the capital, Ta Hien Street is one of the most popular entertainment spots. When night falls, the street lights up and quickly becomes vibrant and bustling with crowds and music from bars. Find yourself a sidewalk beer stall and sit down on a plastic stool, sip a refreshing glass of draft beer, rub shoulders with locals and tourists, and enjoy the communal and vibrant atmosphere in the clinking of glasses and cheerful conversations.
Locals and tourists gather for cold Hanoi beer in Ta Hien
The nightlife here is equally diverse. Besides beer stalls, Ta Hien also has many pubs, clubs and bars that cater to a variety of audiences. You can find casual eateries like Hanoi Rock City, where live music fills the air, and more boisterous venues like 1900 Le Théâtre, which is bustling with DJ performances and packed with revelers. Street vendors jostle through the crowds, offering trays of snacks and draft beer to keep you energized.
Pro tips:
- Ta Hien really comes alive after sunset, but the best time is around 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. That’s when the street starts to buzz with energy, and you can still find a good spot without having to fight through the crowds. If you’re a night owl, stay after 10 p.m., as it gets busier, especially on weekends.
- The best spot is right at the corner of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen. This is where everything from street performers to snack stalls takes place. It can get a little crowded, but it’s the hustle and bustle that makes this neighborhood special. There’s no dress code here, so you can dress however you want. Think comfortable clothes, sandals, and maybe a small bag you can keep in front of you.
- Start with a cold glass of bia hoi, Vietnam’s famous draft beer. It’s super light, refreshing and incredibly cheap, paired with some delicious street food like fried spring rolls, grilled squid or a small plate of beef jerky. There are always people walking by with a tray of snacks, so keep an eye out!
- When it’s time to head back, use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Be to avoid haggling or being pulled over by taxis on the street.
> > > If the energy of Ta Hien leaves you wanting more, check out our full guide to Hanoi Nightlife – where we reveal the best bars, live music spots, night markets, and local experiences to make your evenings in the capital truly unforgettable.
Explore Hanoi Night Market on Hang Dao Street
Hanoi Night Market is a market located in the Old Quarter and is always bustling and energetic – this is a great activity to do in Hanoi at night. Stretching from Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square at the northern end of the bustling Hoan Kiem Lake to Dong Xuan Market, this weekend market transforms the area into a pedestrian-only area, where countless stalls lie under the night sky and street food vendors prepare delicious dishes.
The buzzing heart of Hanoi night market scene
The night market has nearly 4,000 stalls with hundreds of items, from clothes, shoes, to souvenirs, handicrafts, at average prices. However, before buying anything, you should check the price first and maybe bargain a little if you feel the price is a bit high compared to their value. Visitors can also find a lot of street food as well as enjoy special street music shows here and street food. Especially the barbecue stalls – where you can choose pre-cooked skewers with a variety of meats, fish and vegetables as well as tofu to grill and eat with a variety of sauces and dips.
Pro tips:
- Bargaining is part of the experience, don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially for clothes, souvenirs or accessories. Start by offering around 30% less than the original price, always smile and be polite.
- Arrive early (around 6:30–7 PM) if you want to avoid the crowds and have more time to browse and sample the street food. After 8 PM, it gets crowded, especially on weekends.
Shop for unique souvenirs at traditional handicraft shops
These craft shops are scattered around Hanoi, especially the Old Quarter, and are filled with unique souvenirs. Some of the most popular souvenirs for visitors to Hanoi include wooden seals (hand-carved by skilled craftsmen at your request), reprints of old propaganda posters – giving you a glimpse into the contemporary side of Vietnamese art and culture, and Do paper, known for its soft texture and durability, often used in painting, calligraphy and traditional ceremonies. A sheet of Do paper typically costs between VND5,000 and VND20,000 ($0.20 -$0.82), while small notebooks and greeting cards cost between VND30,000 and VND80,000 ($1.23 -$3.29), making it easy to take home a piece of Hanoi’s living history.
Some traditional handicrafts and souvenirs you can buy in Hanoi
In addition to these shops, streets in the Old Quarter such as Hang Ma, famous for its colorful paper crafts, or Hang Dao with its bustling fabric markets, offer not only shopping but also a journey into Vietnam’s traditional crafts and the vibrant rhythm of its street culture. Whether it’s a delicate piece of pottery or a folk painting, these treasures capture the artistic soul of Hanoi and reflect its rich heritage.
Pro tips:
- If you’re looking for the best experience and prices, plan to visit these shops during the weekday morning or early afternoon, when the streets are less crowded and the vendors are more relaxed and often more open to light bargaining.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for a quick demo from an artisan, especially if you’re looking to buy a hand-carved wooden seal or brush calligraphy on Do paper. Many will be happy to show off their handiwork, and it adds a memorable personal touch to your souvenir.
- If you’re looking to buy fragile items like ceramics or framed artwork, ask the shop if they offer bubble wrap or travel packaging services; many shops are prepared for international customers and are happy to help.
Take part in a Hanoi cooking class
Food is a big part of Hanoi culture, with so many flavors that are the perfect balance of unique ingredients that you may not have experienced back home, a cooking class can be a great way to get a real feel for the food you are trying in Hanoi and allow you to take home some of your newly acquired skills to recreate your favorite dishes.
Immerse in the fun and flavor in a Hanoi cooking class
There are many cooking classes on offer in Hanoi, some will take you on a market tour (which we highly recommend) as well as classes that take place in small local homes or similar. You can also organize group or one-on-one cooking classes if you prefer. With a hands-on approach, these classes will expose you to key ingredients and traditional Vietnamese cooking methods. Some of the best cooking classes in Hanoi Old Quarter you can refer to are Apron Up Cooking Class, Rose Kitchen Cooking Class, Hoang’s Cooking Class and Cooking Class at Blue Butterfly Restaurant.
Pro tips:
- Look for classes that offer hands-on experiences, and the best part is that you’ll be able to shop for ingredients at a local market. You’ll learn how to identify fresh herbs like Vietnamese mint, water spinach and betel leaves, among others. These tours often include tastings or explanations of lesser-known ingredients like shrimp paste or lotus seeds.
- Vietnamese cooking classes in Hanoi are usually beginner-friendly, with clear instructions, pre-measured ingredients and helpful instructors. You’ll feel confident enough to recreate dishes like pho, fried spring rolls and bun cha at home, even if it’s your first time holding a chef’s knife!
> > > Exploring the Old Quarter is just the beginning, for a deeper dive into Vietnam’s rich culture, landscapes, and flavors, consider joining one of our carefully curated Vietnam tours that go far beyond Hanoi.
Suggested itineraries at Hanoi Old Quarter
For an unforgettable self-guided adventure in Hanoi Old Quarter, get inspired by this thoughtfully designed 1-2 day itinerary:
Itinerary 1: Full Day Hanoi City Tour
Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and get a glimpse of Vietnam’s long-lasting history with a visit to the Temple of Literature. In the afternoon, explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, learn about 54 different ethnic minorities of Vietnam, each with distinguished characteristics
For a more detailed itinerary, please check this link here.
Itinerary 2: Short Hanoi and Mai Chau Excursion in 3 Days
Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi and explore night market
Day 2: Mai Chau day tour from Hanoi
Day 3: Hanoi half-day city tour and departure
For a more detailed itinerary, please check this link here.
Some practical tips when visiting Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi Old Quarter is unlike anything you’ve ever visited before, it’s unique, vibrant and packed with things to see and do. Here are some of our top travel tips to help you make the most of your experience and create some incredible memories.
- Best time to visit Hanoi Old Quarter: The weather in Hanoi and northern Vietnam can be very different to the weather in the south and Ho Chi Minh City. The ideal time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is pleasantly dry and sunny. If you have allergies, remember to bring medication as air pollution and irritants can lead to sore throats and coughs.
- Prepare to wander: The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets, each named after the goods that were once sold there (like Hang Bac Street – Silver Street). Use an offline map like Google Maps or Maps.me. Landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market can help you get your bearings.
- Getting around the Old Quarter: As the streets in this area are quite narrow and traffic can be heavy, walking is often the best way to experience the atmosphere. Be mindful as the sidewalks may be lined with street stalls and cheap eateries, or used as parking lots. For a local experience, take a cyclo tour, which is slow-paced and perfect for short trips around the historic streets. Travelling by car or motorbike via ride-hailing apps is another viable option, which is very affordable and can sometimes be the cheapest option other than walking.
- Payment: Some shops do not accept cards and we always recommend having cash on hand, which can be exchanged at ATMs throughout the area and banks. You can also use online payment apps like MoMo, VNPay, etc. which are widely used for QR code payments.
- Bargaining when buying: when buying at Dong Xuan market or from street vendors, bargaining is very normal. Start by reducing the price by half, then gradually increase it until you reach the price you want (usually only 20-30% lower). Don’t forget to keep a friendly attitude and always smile. If the seller still doesn’t agree, say goodbye and leave politely, because they may call you back.
- Tips when crossing the street: as mentioned, traffic in the old quarter can be quite chaotic and crowded. If you cross the street, cross slowly and steadily, don’t run or stop suddenly. Make eye contact with drivers, they will automatically give way to you. Or simply go in a large group or with a local.
Some people will say that you either love or hate Hanoi, but if you allow yourself to be swept away by everything that is going on and really immerse yourself in the moment, you will definitely enjoy it. We hope our guide has given you some ideas of what Hanoi Old Quarter has to offer. So whether you are visiting Hanoi as a stepping stone to a larger trip to Vietnam or just visiting the city on its own, we hope you enjoy it to the fullest. Need help planning your trip or looking for local recommendations? Don’t hesitate to contact us, we’re here to help you fall in love with Hanoi.
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