Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter – Your Complete Discovery Guide

Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with its distinctive cultural beauty and architecture from a thousand-year-old civilization, harmonizes with vibrant activities, making it an irresistible destination for travelers.

Whether you’re experiencing its ancient, contemplative charm by day or its bustling, lively atmosphere by night, the Old Quarter holds a unique allure. Hanoi Larosa Hotel presents this detailed guide to ensure you have a complete and memorable journey through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, from morning till evening.

1. Where is Hanoi’s Old Quarter and What Streets Does it Include?

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is located in Hoan Kiem District. Its boundaries are clearly defined: to the North by Hang Dau Street; to the West by Phung Hung Street; to the South by Hang Bong, Hang Gai, Cau Go, and Hang Thung Streets; and to the East, it’s bordered by Tran Quang Khai and Tran Nhat Duat Streets.

The Old Quarter spans approximately 100 hectares and comprises 76 streets across 10 wards: Dong Xuan, Hang Dao, Hang Ma, Hang Bo, Hang Bac, Hang Gai, Hang Buom, Hang Bong, Ly Thai To, and Cua Dong. While Hanoi has other old streets in districts like Ba Dinh, Dong Da, and Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem District remains the primary focus of the Old Quarter due to its unique characteristics. Therefore, only the defined area is preserved and maintained as the capital’s main Old Quarter.

Note: “Hanoi’s 36 Streets” is an approximate term describing the ancient urban area, encompassing both the Old Quarter and its surrounding neighborhoods.

2. What to See and Do in Hanoi’s Old Quarter?

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a hub for many of the capital’s famous attractions and tourist sites. You can stroll through its streets, visit historical relics, explore traditional markets, and experience the lively urban atmosphere at night. Here are 9 prominent Old Quarter destinations you shouldn’t miss:

• Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake): A symbol of the capital, offering serene, green scenery and historical sites such as Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Turtle Tower, and Pen Tower.

• Address: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Hang Ma Street: A vibrant check-in paradise bursting with color, featuring stalls displaying all kinds of handicrafts, lanterns, folk toys, and more.

  
   Address: Hang Ma Street, Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Ta Hien Street: Hanoi’s “sleepless” beer street. It comes alive at night with lively bars and pubs, attracting many international tourists and creating a distinct “Western Quarter” ambiance in the heart of the capital.

  
  Address: Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Dong Xuan Market: One of Hanoi’s largest and most famous markets, known for its unique architecture and bustling trading activities. It offers a diverse range of products and is a paradise for street food.

  
  Address: Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• O Quan Chuong Gate: A unique ancient architectural work, one of the five famous auxiliary gates of the ancient Thang Long Citadel that still stands. It features distinct Nguyen Dynasty watchtower architecture.

  
  Address: Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Ma May Ancient House: Built in the late 19th century, this ancient house boasts traditional architecture and well-preserved historical artifacts, reflecting the lifestyle and daily habits of old Hanoians.

   
  • Address: 87 Ma May Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.
  • Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily.
  • Entrance fee: 10,000 VND/person.

• Bach Ma Temple: An ancient temple steeped in history, one of the four important guardian temples of the former Thang Long Citadel, dedicated to Long Do, the guardian deity of ancient Hanoi.

  
   Address: 76 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Phung Hung Mural Street: An impressive art space with beautiful murals vividly recreating old Hanoi scenes and the simple, familiar lives of the capital’s residents.

  
  Address: Phung Hung Street, Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.

• Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market: Stretching approximately 3km along streets from Hang Dao to the entrance of Dong Xuan Market. This market offers diverse products and a rich culinary scene.

  Operating hours: Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

3. Must-Try Delicacies in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll have the opportunity to savor countless local specialties. Here’s a list of famous dishes and eateries you can choose from for your culinary journey through the capital:

• Cha Ca La Vong: Hanoi’s renowned dish, elaborately prepared from marinated snakehead fish, grilled over charcoal, and then pan-fried for a crispy, sweet, and incredibly aromatic flavor.

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  • Address: 14 Cha Ca, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi.
  • Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 350,000 VND/serving.

• Bun Cha Hang Quat: A beloved lunch spot in the Old Quarter. This Hanoi grilled pork with vermicelli boasts a special deliciousness from tender pork belly, meticulously marinated and grilled over charcoal.

  
   
  • Address: 74 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 25,000 – 40,000 VND/portion

• Bun Thang Cau Go: A great dinner option during your evening stroll. Located in a small alley on Cau Go Street, Bà Đức’s Bun Thang restaurant is always bustling due to its unique deliciousness, rich ingredients, and clear, sweet broth.

  
   
  • Address: 48 Cau Go, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 30,000 – 55,000 VND/bowl.

• Bun Oc Thuy: This snail vermicelli soup leaves a lasting impression with the delicious, crunchy texture of snails, a rich and hot broth, served with fresh herbs.

  
   
  • Address: 11 Dong Xuan Market Alley, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
  • Approximate price: 30,000 – 55,000 VND/bowl.

• Pho Ly Quoc Su: A long-standing brand and a reliable culinary address. This Hanoi pho restaurant offers a diverse menu of beef pho varieties, including rare beef and flank, along with soft, chewy pho noodles and a delicious, flavorful broth.
   
  • Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 50,000 – 77,000 VND/bowl.

• Xoi Che Ba Thin: A particularly beloved snack spot. The shop sells many traditional and seasonal sticky rice and sweet soup varieties with a delightful sweet and refreshing taste.
   
  • Address: 95 Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 15,000 – 25,000 VND/bowl.

• Nom Mai Nga: Famous for its Hanoi dried beef salad and spicy and sour mixed salad, along with delicious clear dumplings and nem cuon (fresh spring rolls).
   
  • Address: 25 Ham Long, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem Dist.
  • Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
  • Approximate price: 20,000 – 40,000 VND/portion.

4. Suggested Itineraries for Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is charming by day with its historical sites and ancient architecture, and equally captivating by night with numerous exciting entertainment options. Here are 2 suggested itineraries for a complete and memorable Old Quarter tour:

4.1. Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter by Day

In the morning, you can stroll around the Old Quarter to admire the ancient, contemplative beauty of the streets. Don’t forget to visit Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the fresh air. Afterward, stop to explore and take photos at Bach Ma Temple, Ma May Ancient House, O Quan Chuong Gate, and Phung Hung Mural Street. Then, head to Dong Xuan Market to buy souvenirs and savor local delicacies.

4.2. Discovering Hanoi’s Old Quarter by Night

Hanoi’s Old Quarter becomes significantly livelier at night with many exciting activities you shouldn’t miss:

• Shopping and dining at Ta Hien food street and the Old Quarter night market.
• Enjoying music, street performances, and folk games on the pedestrian street.
• Strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, immersing yourself in the fresh air, and admiring the sparkling beauty of the Old Quarter as it lights up.
• Taking photos with the glittering, vibrant scenery of Hang Ma Street and Phung Hung Mural Street.
• Enjoying late-night food before returning to your hotel, concluding a long day of exploration.

5. Tips for Visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter

To ensure the most complete experience when exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, remember to keep these tips in mind:

5.1. How to Get to the Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is right in the city center, making it quite easy and convenient to reach. You can take a bus, taxi, or motorbike.

• Taxi: A convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with family or a large group. Most drivers know the routes well.
• Motorbike: A cost-effective and flexible choice for getting to the Old Quarter and other attractions.
• Bus: Take routes 36, 09, 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (about 1.8km from the Old Quarter) or routes 03, 14, 18, 34 to O Quan Chuong Gate (about 2km from the Old Quarter), then walk to your destination.

• Walking: This is the preferred way for many young people, allowing you to explore every alley and corner and stop to take photos at any street you like.
• Cyclo: A delightful experience to admire the 36 streets. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand.
• Rented Motorbike: If you don’t prefer walking or cyclos, you can rent a motorbike. Rental prices typically range from 150,000 – 200,000 VND/bike, depending on the type and rental period.

5.3. Other Important Notes

• If you’re visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter with elderly parents or grandparents, consider hiring a car to drive around. This allows them to enjoy the sights comfortably while ensuring their well-being.
• For souvenirs, you can choose to buy “o mai” (salted dried fruits), “banh com” (green sticky rice cakes), and lotus tea.
• Some attractions within the Old Quarter have an entrance fee. It’s wise to inquire about prices beforehand and understand the rules before entering.
• When visiting temples, pagodas, or other sacred places, please dress modestly and respectfully, maintain silence, avoid making noise, and limit photography to avoid disturbing others.

6. Recommended Quality Hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter Area

To fully experience Hanoi’s 36 Streets, both day and night, choosing comfortable accommodation in the Old Quarter vicinity is ideal.

Hanoi Larosa Hotel: Located near the Old Quarter, Hanoi Larosa Hotel offers a luxurious and convenient stay. With a modern design blended with classical elements, the hotel provides cozy, well-equipped rooms and professional service. Guests can easily walk to famous attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake, the Hanoi Opera House, and Dong Xuan Night Market. The hotel also features a restaurant serving Vietnamese and international cuisine.

Address: 36 Nguyen Khuyen, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi (While not directly within the traditional Old Quarter, it is very close and convenient for accessing Old Quarter attractions, offering a quieter atmosphere)

Hanoi’s Old Quarter always has exciting discoveries awaiting you. Let Hanoi Larosa Hotel help you plan your journey carefully for truly memorable experiences!

Hanoi Larosa Hotel