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If you’re visiting Hanoi for the first time and wondering what to do, where to eat, or what to see, then you’re in luck.
Route flow, hotel placement and transfer timing are the three decisions that shape the whole trip.
If you’re visiting Hanoi for the first time and wondering what to do, where to eat, or what to see, then you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter that will give you a taste of what it’s like to live like a local.
History and Culture of Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi Old Quarter is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in the city, filled with centuries-old architecture, bustling markets, and street stalls.
In the 17th century, King Ly That To transferred the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Hanoi, and thus began the history of the Hanoi Old Quarter. Starting as far back as the 13th century, artisans from all neighboring areas migrated to this area, ultimately constructing guilds and cooperatives.
Historically, Hanoi Old Quarter was divided into 36 “streets” or guilds according to crafts. The maze-like streets are still lined with small shops selling everyday items for locals and filled with traditional goods such as paintings, handmade souvenir bowls, and dishes.
On Silver Street, previously knowns as Hang Bac and where silversmiths utilized to manufacture cash and jewelry for the royal residence, there are still jewelry stores and money changers.
In addition, people in Hanoi nowadays head to Hang Ma to purchase religious items and festival decorations. Otherwise known as Silk Street, Hang Gai obtained its name from the famous pink hue this road once sold and used in clothing.
Where is Hanoi Old Quarter?
Located near the West and North of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Old Quarter comprised 36 streets. In the uppermost corner lies Hang Dau Street, and to the west-facing corner is Phung Hung Street.
Along the southside are Hang Bong street, Hang Gai street, Cau Go street, and Hang Thung street, while nearby Trang Quang Khai street and Tran Nhat Duat street form the border on the east side.
How do I get there?
Airport Minibus
Most tourists visiting Hanoi likely take this route from the airport to the Old Quarter. Quang Trung street in Hoan Kiem district is where one can easily reserve a ticket.
- Location: 1 Quang Trung street, Hoan Kiem district
- Rate: 40.000 VND/ individual/ one-way (around 2 USD)
- Tel: 024.382.50872
Taxi
A taxi is your best option if you’d rather take a private excursion than follow the herd. Have your hotel’s receptionist arrange one for you. Your cab will be waiting for you outside the hotel and can deliver you to the airport without delay.
However, make sure your query about the cost before embarking so that you can sidestep any fare hikes or being taken a long way around to get your meter running up fees beyond what should be paid.
- Rate: 250.000 – 400.000 VND ( 9-20 USD)
- Tel: Airport Taxi (02438866666), Noi Bai Taxi (02438868888), Mai Linh Taxi (02438222666), etx
What are the highlights of the Hanoi Old Quarter?
It is astonishing that the streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter have existed for almost 1,000 years since King Ly Thai To chose Thang Long as the country’s capital in 1010. The area was bustling with activity by the 15th century.
Hang Gai street offers clothes made from silk, customized pieces, embroidery materials, and silver objects.
Besides, Hang Quat street, which formerly marketed silk and feather fans, now oozes vibrancy thanks to its brilliantly colored flags used during festivals and funerals and religious objects and clothing.
Connecting both of the alleys mentioned above is To Tich street, which is still dedicated to woodturning.
On the other hand, Hang Ma dazzles with its lustrous paper products, such as gift wraps, wedding adornments, and small paper objects to be burned for the deceased.
At last, Lan Ong street is a pleasure for the senses, with its textures and aromas coming from the bags of herbal medicinal materials: leaves, roots, bark, and powders.
Visitors since an aura of old-fashioned architecture and product types by stepping into this place!
List of must-try activities in the Hanoi Old Quarter
Enjoy sidewalk cafe
Enjoy nighttime strolling in Hanoi Old Quarter and explore hidden alleys to find cozy sidewalk cafes with charming designs. You can sip a cup of refreshing iced coffee and chat with friends surrounded by hanging lanterns, rustic woof furnishing, and sometimes even water features.
Wander around Hanoi, walking street
Hanoi walking street- or Hang Dao as it is sometimes known- is an iconic part of the capital of Vietnam. Every weekend between 7 pm to 11 pm, the main street of Hanoi closes for vehicles, allowing pedestrians to explore many interesting shops and eateries that line its pavement.
Experience traditional Vietnamese food or browse stalls loaded with handmade souvenirs, from trinkets and figurines to clothing items, jewelry, and artwork. Enjoy some local culture in Hanoi’s biggest walking street market!
Take a cyclo trip around Hanoi Old Quarter
The best way to discover and explore the old quarter in Hanoi is on a cyclo (pedicab). This unique experience will give you a unique overview of the city’s culture and history.
Cyclo drivers are knowledgeable guides that can explain the city’s landmarks, monuments, and stories while taking you along the winding streets.
Shopping at Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan market is a popular shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. The vibrant market has something for everyone and features stalls run by small vendors offering unique items, making it a great spot to pick up souvenirs to take home.
With its endless offerings, Dong Xuan is the go-to place for a memorable shopping experience!
Contemplate the architecture of Ma Mat Ancient House
87 Ma May’s old home is a must-see attraction in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, showcasing the traditional style of living that epitomizes age-old Hanoi. Tourists are welcome to visit the house daily with an entry fee of 10,000 VND.
Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Swor Lake, is a beautiful and tranquil oasis in the center of Hanoi. With an area of 12 hectares, Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the major tourist attractions in Hanoi.
Visit Hang Ma street
Hang Ma street, or “Ghost Market” is one of the busiest streets in Hanoi and has a fascinating history. Taking just 30 minutes to explore this ancient street, you will find shops selling traditional items such as paper-made products like miniature hats and paper offerings for ancestor worship.
Taste local street food
Tasting the local street food is an experience not to be missed when visiting Hanoi! So get ready for some tantalizing Vietnamese dishes like Pho, Banh Cuon, and Bun cha. Or you may try other regional flavors like Prok Pier, Goi Cuon, etc.
Have a drink in the beer street Hanoi Old Quarter – Ta Hien
If you’re looking for a unique beer-drinking experience, look no further than Hanoi Old Quarter. Located in the middle of this historic quarter is a street called Ta Hien, which is known for its lively pubs and casual drinking spots.
Sightseeing from Long Bien Bridge
If you’re visiting Hanoi, Vietnam, then you must take the time to explore Long Bien Bridge! Built between 1899 and 1902 by Gustave Eiffel and spanning 2.4 km across the Red River, this historic landmark offers stunning views of the bustling city below.
What to Eat in Hanoi Old Quarter?
There are many great places to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter, but here are some of our favorites:
- La Vong grilled chopped fish is one of the most beloved specialties in Hanoi Old Quarter, attracting many visitors to enjoy it. The fish is fried in an iron skillet over a charcoal-grilled hot plate.
- Pho is known as the national dish of Vietnam and is widely served in family-run restaurants and street stalls. The traditional Pho consists of broth (chicken or beef) cooked with spices, rice noodles, and herbs.
- Bun cha is a popular dish in Hanoi Old Quarter. It consists of grilled pork, and rice noodles served on a large plate with herbs, various vegetables, and dipping sauces.
Where to stay at Hanoi Old Quarter?
Hanoi La Siesta Hotel
- Location: 12 Nguyen Quang Bich, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Price: 76 USD
Oriental Suite Hotel & Spa
- Location: 58 Hang Da, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Price: 70 USD
In conclusion, Hanoi Old Quarter is a great place for tourists to go and explore the culture of Hanoi while they’re visiting. Vietnamtraverlers and Freetoursinhanoi.com will help you find the best tour packages and gives you detailed information on this exciting place!