Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour Map: Your Self-Guided Adventure Guide

Welcome to the enchanting maze of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where centuries of history unfold along narrow streets and ancient architecture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, navigating this historic district can be both exciting and overwhelming. Our downloadable map and comprehensive guide will transform your exploration into an unforgettable self-guided walking tour through the heart of Vietnam’s capital.

What Makes Hanoi’s Old Quarter Special

Dating back to the 13th century, the Old Quarter (or “36 Streets”) was originally a collection of specialized craft guilds and trading areas. Each street was named after the specific goods once sold there, creating a living museum of Vietnamese commerce and culture that continues to this day.

The quarter’s unique architectural style features narrow “tube houses” – buildings that are extremely narrow but extend far back from the street, designed to minimize frontage taxes during French colonial times. These distinctive structures, combined with Chinese influences, French colonial elements, and modern Vietnamese adaptations, create a fascinating urban landscape unlike anywhere else in Southeast Asia.

“The Old Quarter is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a living, breathing community where traditions and daily Vietnamese life continue much as they have for generations.” – Local Hanoi guide

Download Your Free Old Quarter Walking Map

Before setting out on your adventure, download our detailed Hanoi Old Quarter walking tour map that highlights all the key attractions, hidden gems, food stops, and important landmarks. Our map is designed to be user-friendly even without internet access once downloaded.

Click here to download your free Hanoi Old Quarter walking map (PDF)

For those who prefer digital navigation, you can also access our Google Maps version with all points of interest already marked.

Self-Guided Walking Tour Route

Our recommended walking route takes approximately 3-4 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing time to explore shops, take photos, and enjoy refreshments. You can easily break this into smaller segments over multiple days.

Starting Point: Hoan Kiem Lake

Begin your journey at the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword), the geographical and cultural center of Hanoi. This serene lake is steeped in legend and provides the perfect introduction to the city’s blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Key attractions around the lake:

• Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain)
• The Huc Bridge (Rising Sun Bridge) – the red wooden bridge leading to the temple
• Turtle Tower (Thap Rua) standing in the middle of the lake

Northern Old Quarter: Traditional Craft Streets

From the lake, head north into the heart of the 36 craft streets. Each street name typically begins with “Hàng,” meaning merchandise or shop.

Must-visit streets include:

1. Hang Bac (Silver Street) – Hanoi’s oldest street, traditionally home to silversmiths
2. Hang Gai (Silk Street) – Beautiful textiles and tailored clothing
3. Hang Ma (Paper Street) – Colorful paper products, decorations, and ceremonial items
4. Hang Quat – Traditional red lacquered products and religious items
5. Lan Ong Street – Traditional medicine shops with fascinating displays of herbs and remedies

Central Old Quarter: Cultural Highlights

As you weave through the narrow streets, don’t miss these significant cultural sites:

• Bach Ma Temple – The oldest temple in the city, dating back to the 11th century
• Ancient House at 87 Ma May Street – A preserved traditional merchant’s house open to visitors
• Dong Xuan Market – The largest covered market in Hanoi, perfect for experiencing local commerce
• St. Joseph’s Cathedral – Neo-Gothic architecture from the French colonial period

Southern Quarter: Food and Entertainment

Complete your tour by exploring the southern section of the Old Quarter, known for:

• Ta Hien Street (Beer Street) – The lively heart of Hanoi’s nightlife
• Hang Buom – Street food paradise
• Luong Ngoc Quyen – More fantastic food options
• Weekend Night Market (Friday to Sunday evenings) – Stretching from Hang Dao to Dong Xuan Market

Hidden Gems Not On Most Maps

Our exclusive walking map includes several lesser-known spots that most tourists miss:

• Cau Go Alley – Tiny hidden passage with unique architecture
• Train Street – Where trains pass through extremely narrow residential areas
• Hidden Coffee Shops – Including several rooftop cafes offering spectacular views
• Hang Trong Folk Painting Gallery – Traditional Vietnamese art in an historic building
• Phung Hung Mural Street – Beautiful art installation depicting Hanoi’s history

Note: The famous “Train Street” has official restrictions for safety reasons, but our map shows viewpoints where you can safely observe this unique Hanoi phenomenon.

Best Times To Walk The Old Quarter

For the optimal experience, consider these timing recommendations:

• Early Morning (6-8 AM): Witness local life at its most authentic as vendors set up, residents practice tai chi by the lake, and the streets are relatively quiet
• Late Afternoon (3-5 PM): Perfect lighting for photography and pleasant temperatures
• Evening (6-9 PM): Experience the vibrant night atmosphere, especially on weekends when streets become pedestrian-only

Avoid midday hours during summer months (May-August) when temperatures and humidity can be uncomfortably high.

Essential Food Stops

Our map marks the best places to sample authentic Hanoi street food during your walk:

• Bun Cha Huong Lien (the “Obama bun cha”) – Famous for the presidential visit
• Banh Mi 25 – Exceptional Vietnamese sandwiches
• Café Giang – Home of the original egg coffee
• Pho Bat Dan – Local favorite for traditional beef noodle soup
• Che Ba Thin – Delicious traditional sweet desserts
• Bia Hoi Junction – Ultra-fresh draft beer for just cents per glass

For more culinary adventures, check our Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour guide.

Practical Tips For Your Self-Guided Tour

Getting Around

• Wear comfortable walking shoes – streets can be uneven
• Carry a water bottle – you’ll find many shops to refill
• Use offline maps as backup – download our map or Google Maps offline
• Consider exploring small segments over multiple days rather than everything at once

Safety Tips

• Watch for motorbikes – they often drive on sidewalks and against traffic
• Keep valuables secure – use a crossbody bag kept in front of you
• Be aware of common scams – negotiate prices for goods before purchasing
• Stay hydrated, especially during summer months

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly when visiting temples (covered shoulders and knees)
• Ask permission before photographing locals
• Remove shoes when entering homes or certain spiritual sites
• Learn basic Vietnamese greetings – locals appreciate the effort

Extending Your Walking Tour

If you have extra time, our extended map includes these nearby attractions just beyond the Old Quarter:

• French Quarter – Colonial architecture and upscale shopping
• Hanoi Opera House – Magnificent French colonial building
• Long Bien Bridge – Historic structure designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company
• West Lake – Hanoi’s largest lake with beautiful pagodas
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex – Important historical site

Consider our combined Old Quarter and French Quarter tour if you have a full day available.

Customize Your Tour

Our downloadable map allows you to personalize your route based on your interests:

• History enthusiasts: Focus on temples, the Ancient House, and historical sites
• Photography lovers: Follow our marked scenic viewpoints and most photogenic streets
• Shoppers: Concentrate on the specialized shopping streets and markets
• Food adventurers: Create a culinary route connecting our recommended eateries

Frequently Asked Questions

Book a Guided Tour

While our self-guided map provides everything you need for independent exploration, some visitors prefer the insights and convenience of a guided experience. Vietnam Travelers offers several expert-led walking tours of the Old Quarter:

• Hanoi City Walking Tour – Comprehensive guided exploration with a local expert
• Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour – Focus on culinary discoveries
• Hanoi Night Tour – Experience the Old Quarter’s evening transformation

Our guides provide historical context, cultural insights, and local stories that bring the streets to life in ways no map alone can capture.

Click here to view all our Hanoi tour options

Conclusion: Your Old Quarter Adventure Awaits

Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers one of Southeast Asia’s most authentic and captivating urban experiences. With our detailed walking map in hand, you’re ready to discover centuries of history, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and the unique charm that makes this district the beating heart of Vietnam’s capital.

Download your free map today and embark on a self-guided journey through Hanoi’s fascinating streets and alleys. From ancient temples to bustling markets, traditional crafts to innovative cafes, every turn reveals new treasures in this historic neighborhood.

For more travel inspiration and practical guides to Vietnam, explore our other articles:

• Must-Try Foods in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
• Perfect 2-Day Hanoi Itinerary
• Day Trips from Hanoi: Halong Bay Guide

Last updated: March 8, 2025 – We regularly review and update our guides to ensure accuracy.

Read more: Hanoi Walking Food Tour by Night: A Culinary Adventure Through Vietnam’s Capital