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Insights into Hanoi's Old Quarter
It seems like Hanoi's Old Quarter has become a must-visit destination for most travelers exploring the capital city. When you step into this historic area, you'll witness the captivating beauty in its architecture, way of life, and the profound culture embedded in its scenery and people.
Hanoi boasts numerous ancient streets, and when people talk about the city, they often refer to the term 'Hanoi's 36 streets and guilds,' featuring traditional craft villages that bear the imprint of time. The Old Quarter in Hanoi is the name designated for the ancient streets in the central Hoan Kiem district, one of the central districts of the capital.
A corner of Hanoi's Old Quarter. @Shutterstock
The specific boundaries of the Old Quarter are well defined: to the East are Tran Nhat Duat and Tran Quang Khai streets, to the West is Phung Hung Street, to the South are Hang Thung - Hang Gai, Hang Bong, and Cau Go streets, and to the North is Hang Dau Street.
Every alley in Hanoi's Old Quarter reveals various ancient craft streets such as Hang Bong specializing in selling cotton quilts, Hang Ma offering gold-engraved products, Hang Quat selling costumes and stage props for traditional art forms, and more.
A glimpse of Hanoi's Old Quarter. @Shutterstock
The Formation History of Hanoi's Old Quarter
Hanoi's Old Quarter spans only about 100 hectares with 10 wards and 76 streets, but the moment you step here, you'll feel like you've been transported back to the centuries-old Hanoi, reflecting a glimpse of the life of the land and people of ancient Hanoi. It's for this reason that, to this day, the Old Quarter has become a valuable asset preserved and conserved by the local authorities.
The Old Quarter in Hanoi has its roots dating back to the Ly - Tran period, around the 11th century. This area used to be the trading hub of the ancient capital Thang Long. The houses in the Old Quarter are built in classical architectural style, sharing common features with sloping roofs, small tube houses, and prevalent yellow paint.
Guide to Reaching Hanoi's Old Quarter
Situated right in the heart of the capital, you can easily reach Hanoi's Old Quarter using basic transportation modes such as motorbikes, cars, taxis, and buses.
There are numerous bus routes that can take you to Hanoi's Old Quarter. You can catch a bus to Hoan Kiem Lake, about 1.8km from the Old Quarter (routes 36, 09, 14), or to O Quan Chuong, approximately 2km from the Old Quarter (routes 03, 14, 18, 34). Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to your destination. Considering the relatively short distance, the cost per taxi ride is reasonable.
While exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter, besides walking, you can also rent a motorbike or a cyclo to leisurely tour around the area. The rental cost for a motorbike usually ranges from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per bike (depending on the bike and the time), while the cyclo fare varies, so don't forget to negotiate the price with the driver before hopping on!
Cyclo carrying tourists around Hanoi's Old Quarter parked near Hoan Kiem Lake. @Shutterstock
Must-Visit Attractions When Traveling to Hanoi's Old Quarter
Hanoi's Old Quarter is the most visited attraction in the capital, exuding a tranquil beauty rarely found elsewhere. In addition to strolling around the Old Quarter, you can explore the following key points of interest:
Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market, also known as the Big Market in Hanoi, is an iconic market that immediately comes to mind when discussing Hanoi markets in Vietnam. Originally constructed in 1804 south of the To Lich River, it was relocated to Dong Xuan Ward in 1889 after being displaced by the French colonizers, giving rise to its name.
Having endured various historical upheavals, Dong Xuan Market now retains three rows, each with three stories. After a major fire in 1995, the market underwent renovation, expanding its total area to 14,000m2 with 2000 different stalls. Today, Dong Xuan Market stands as one of the largest markets in Hanoi, serving as a shopping destination for most visitors to the capital.
Dong Xuan Market - The largest market area in Hanoi. @Shutterstock
If you're wondering what to eat at Dong Xuan Market, this article is for you.
O Quan Chuong
O Quan Chuong in Hanoi is situated at the intersection of Hang Chieu and Dao Duy Tu streets. Regarded as one of the long-standing symbols witnessing the glorious history of the nation, O Quan Chuong was constructed in 1749, approximately 80 meters from the Red River, serving as a hub for trade activities among various markets.
Built with an arched structure standing about 3 meters tall, O Quan Chuong has three doors, including a central main door and two side doors. The main door features a stone tablet engraved with a decree prohibiting gatekeepers from causing inconvenience to people passing through, issued by Governor Hoang Dieu.
The bricks used in constructing O Quan Chuong share similarities with those used in the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam). These large-sized interlocking bricks, combined with stone, provide exceptional durability, likely contributing to O Quan Chuong's resilience until today.
O Quan Chuong - Standing Strong for Three Centuries. @Shutterstock
Bach Ma Temple
Situated at 76 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Bach Ma Temple is one of the oldest temples in the city, dating back to the late 9th century. It venerates Long Do, Bach Ma Dai Vuong (White Horse Deity), the Guardian Deity of Thang Long Imperial Citadel.
For centuries, Bach Ma Temple has been one of the four temples of Thang Long Citadel, regularly visited by kings during Tet holidays to pray for national prosperity, peace, and the well-being of the people. Today, the temple remains a spiritual sanctuary revered by the people of Hanoi and the entire nation, with annual rituals and offerings.
The inner courtyard of Ngoc Son Temple. @Shutterstock
Ngoc Son Temple
Constructed in 1841 in the 19th century, Ngoc Son Temple is a place of worship for Van De Quan - the deity bestowing fortune and success upon scholars, Hung Dao Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tuan - the great national hero, ancestral Buddhas, Tam Hoa Thanh Mau, and the Cong Dong deities.
Visiting Ngoc Son Temple, you'll admire the architectural style known as Tam letter, featuring 8 square roofs, 2 floors, 8 supporting columns, and 3 interconnected main houses. This is a distinctive architectural feature of temples in the Northern region. The temple is most bustling on the 1st and 15th day of the lunar month. Don't forget to marvel at and capture the iconic red The Huc Bridge while you're here!
Note: When entering Ngoc Son Temple, kindly use the side entrances, and refrain from taking photos pointing fingers at the revered statues.
In front of the entrance to Ngoc Son Temple. @Shutterstock
Hang Ma Street
Hang Ma Street is approximately 700m from Hoan Kiem Lake and 1km from Dong Xuan Market. It intersects with Hang Duong, Hang Chieu, Hang Ngang, and Phung Hung streets. Formerly known for producing and trading paper items like paper horses and decorative items for significant occasions.
Hang Ma Street, strategically located near Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market, has long been a popular shopping and entertainment district for many generations of Hanoi's youth. Today, Hang Ma Street offers a diverse range of products. If you're looking for decorative items for home, holidays, or weddings, Hang Ma Street is the place to go.
During festive occasions, this traditional street is adorned with vibrant red hues, featuring lanterns, decorative lights, and blossoming peach blossoms. It serves as an ideal check-in location for many Hanoi residents during significant celebrations in Vietnam.
Hang Ma Street during festive seasons. @Shutterstock
Ma May Ancient House
Hanoi's Old Quarter boasts numerous ancient houses, but the most renowned is the ancient house at 87 Ma May Street, situated north of Hoan Kiem Lake. Built in the 19th century, the Ma May Ancient House covers an area of approximately 150m2. After years of existence and various owners, the house underwent restoration in 1998 and received national heritage recognition in 2004.
This ancient house features a vintage architectural space, deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of old Hanoi. Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction. If you visit the ancient house in the evening, besides admiring its beauty, you can also enjoy traditional Ca Tru performances presented by the Thang Long Guild.
Ma May Ancient House, with centuries-old history. @Shutterstock
Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street, known as the sleepless street in the heart of Hanoi, spans nearly 270m. This bustling street captivates every passerby, drawing them into its vibrant atmosphere. During the French colonial era, it was closely associated with the Quang Lac Theater and the once-famous traditional Vietnamese operas and dramas.
Today, Ta Hien Street charms visitors with a blend of modernity and a touch of nostalgia from old Hanoi. The street truly comes to life in the evening when the lights illuminate, and the numerous eateries open their doors, creating a lively gathering place for people from all walks of life.
Ta Hien Street - The most lively gathering spot in Hanoi. @Shutterstock
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, is a freshwater lake inseparable from the capital Hanoi. Mention Hanoi, and Sword Lake immediately comes to mind. The name Hoan Kiem is linked to the legend of King Le Thai To returning the magical sword to the lake's mythical turtle. This natural freshwater lake is strategically located at the intersection of Hang Dao Street, Hang Ngang Street, and Luong Van Can Street. Covering an area of about 12 hectares, the lake has a depth of approximately 1-1.4 meters. The lake is notable for the Turtle Island in its center and the age-old Turtle Tower reflecting on its surface.
Tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake. @Shutterstock
If you're still wondering what to do in Hanoi, don't forget to check out the exclusive entertainment and activities on Mytour Xperience.
Exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter - What delicious dishes should you try?
Grilled Pork Vermicelli (Bun Cha)
Hanoi's Bun Cha is an iconic dish of the capital. This culinary delight is a must-try when exploring Hanoi. While it may resemble the southern Bun Thit Nuong, it is prepared with a more intricate technique. The star of this renowned dish is the grilled pork patties, seasoned and grilled over charcoal.
The finished product of Hanoi's Bun Cha is presented on a small bamboo tray, featuring finely cut vermicelli, pickled vegetables made from carrots and turnips, pork patties soaked in the well-seasoned Hanoi dipping sauce, and a variety of fresh herbs. Some places may also include crispy spring rolls (nem ran) for added allure. When enjoying Hanoi's Bun Cha, diners simply mix a bit of vermicelli into the sweet and tangy dipping sauce, creating a flavorful combination with the rich pork patties that is both aromatic and unforgettable.
Hanoi's Bun Cha is a burst of flavors, an experience that stays with you after just one bite. @Shutterstock
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Cold Snail Noodles
This dish is a culinary delight exclusive to Hanoi, requiring an adventurous palate to fully appreciate its unparalleled flavors. The star of the show is the succulent snail meat, creating the unique taste of this dish. The snail broth is the highlight, with its sweet and refreshing taste, devoid of any unpleasant odor. Adding a touch of chili oil enhances the overall deliciousness.
Cold snail noodles are enjoyed in a dipping style. A serving consists of delicate rice noodles and a bowl of broth filled with plump snail meat. To savor the dish, dip a portion of noodles into the broth, ensuring they soak up the flavors. Alternate bites between the noodles and snails, sipping the broth for the perfect dining experience.
Cold Snail Noodles - A renowned delicacy in Hanoi.
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Beef Pho
Pho is no longer an unfamiliar dish for the Vietnamese, but perhaps it's only in Hanoi that you can fully appreciate the delightful flavors of this traditional and rustic dish. If you find yourself in Hanoi on a chilly autumn day, head to the Old Quarter and choose the busiest pho stall to indulge in this iconic dish. The subtly sweet broth paired with slightly chewy and tender pho noodles will instantly awaken your senses.
Delicious and aromatic Hanoi Pho with authentic flavors.@Shutterstock
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Crispy and Irresistible Fried Nem Chua.
This is the most popular street food in Hanoi. Each piece of fried nem chua is sold at an incredibly low price, and its flavors rank among the best in the world. On Hang Bong Street, around 5 PM every day, the air is filled with the tempting aroma of fried nem chua. Originating from Thanh Hoa, this street food has become a familiar gift for people to enjoy and chat about every evening.
Fried nem chua has a crispy outer layer and a slightly tangy, soft inside, dipped in spicy chili sauce, making it unbelievably delicious. This dish is often enjoyed with cool cucumber or pickled fruits to balance the flavors.
Fried Nem Chua - The crowd-pleasing street food in Hanoi.@VnExpress
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Shrimp Paste Vermicelli with Fried Tofu
Shrimp paste vermicelli with fried tofu is a popular and delicious dish in the heart of Hanoi. Initially, it consists of crispy fried tofu, fresh vermicelli, shrimp paste, and raw vegetables, simple yet unforgettable with each flavorful bite.
The soul of this dish lies in pure shrimp paste combined with sour kumquat, fried soybean oil, sugar, chili, and seasoning. The better the shrimp paste, the more enticing the shrimp paste vermicelli with fried tofu becomes. Nowadays, it has been innovated with additional ingredients such as pork, fried sour fermented pork roll, and grilled squid, making it look very tempting.
Whether shrimp paste vermicelli with fried tofu is delicious or not depends on the quality of shrimp paste.@Shutterstock
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Explore more: 5 Hanoi cafes with picture-perfect spaces for your Instagram moments
Hotels in Hanoi near the Old Quarter
Hanoi, with its 36 streets and numerous attractions and dining spots, awaits your exploration. To extend your wanderings, don't forget to pre-book a hotel in Hanoi for your trip! Here are 5 hotels near the Old Quarter for your consideration:
Hanoi Charming House
Address: 15 Yen Thai, Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Price Range: From 307,800 VND per night
Hanoi Charming House is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Hanoi, highly praised by many travelers for its quality. The hotel is approximately 600m away from Hoan Kiem Lake, about 400m from the Hanoi Opera House, and around 125m from the Vietnamese Tuong Theatre. The average room size is about 15m2, equipped with modern amenities to provide guests with an ideal resting space.
Hanoi Charming House offers affordable prices with top-notch quality. No need for further discussion. @Fanpage Hanoi Charming House
The Chi Boutique Hotel
Address: 13 Nhà Chung Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price Range: From 1,271,813 VND per night
The Chi Boutique Hotel
The Chi Boutique Hotel, a 4-star hotel, is just a 10-minute walk from the Old Quarter. Thanks to its prime location, it is also close to famous attractions and dining spots in the capital, such as St. Joseph's Cathedral, Bong Sen Water Puppet Center, Hoan Kiem Lake, National Library of Vietnam, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, Cong Caphe, Banh My Mama, CHỐN - Manual Coffee Maker, Mien Ngan Minh Thu Noodle Shop, and more.
Room categories here include Standard, Superior Double/Twin, Superior Plus Double/Twin, and Suite With Balcony with sizes up to 45m2, all including complimentary breakfast. The rooms feature a dominant earthy wood tone in design, complemented by warm white-yellow lights for a cozy ambiance. Additionally, you can step out to the balcony to enjoy the peaceful morning sun.
Mayflower Hotel Hanoi
Address: 11 Hang Ruoi, Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Price: From 566,368 VND/night
Mayflower Hotel Hanoi is located on the front of Hang Ruoi Street, and from a distance, you'll see the hotel adorned in a luxurious white color. The hotel's space is elegantly arranged with eye-catching colors like gray, yellow, and white. The accommodation here ranges from 15-28m2 depending on the room type.
Accommodation at Mayflower Hotel Hanoi. @Mayflower Hotel Hanoi Fanpage
Church Legend Hotel Hanoi
Address: 46 Au Trieu, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Price: From 538,560 VND/night
Church Legend Hotel Hanoi features ancient architecture with an Oriental style, providing guests with a cozy and tranquil space. The hotel's location near Hoan Kiem Lake makes it convenient for sightseeing activities.
Church Legend Hotel Hanoi offers luxurious and cozy accommodations. @Fanpage Church Legend Hotel Hanoi
Solaria Hotel Hanoi
Address: 22 Bao Khanh Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price: From 1,627,499 VND/night
Solaria Hotel Hanoi
Situated on Bao Khanh Street, Solaria Hotel Hanoi is a 4-star hotel that stands out near the city center with a high rating of 4.8/5 from over 400 guests, reflecting their satisfaction with the experience here.
Thanks to its prime location, it is very close to famous tourist destinations such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Old Quarter, Ta Hien Beer Street, Ngoc Son Temple, and popular eateries like Cô Phượng Grilled Nem Chua, Pizza 4P’s Bao Khanh, The Corner Food: Bun Bo Nam Bo - Pho Bo Sot Vang, Noodle & Roll traditional Vietnamese food and vegetarian restaurant, Bun Mien Ngan Minh Thu, etc.
The accommodation here is designed in a blend of vintage and modern styles with skillful use of colors and exquisite interior arrangements, providing an impressive aesthetic. Some room categories include Solaria Double/Twin Balcony, Solaria King, Sol Double Or Twin, etc.
Matilda Boutique Hotel and Spa
Address: 73 Ma May Street, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price: From 1,006,970 VND per night
Matilda Boutique Hotel and Spa
Matilda Boutique Hotel and Spa is a 3-star hotel located on Ma May Street, just a 5-minute walk from the Old Quarter and Giang Cafe. The accommodation here is designed in a modern and luxurious style with cool colors, adorned with small decorative items to bring color and warmth to the room. Room categories include Junior Twin City View and Junior Twin, both of which include complimentary breakfast.
For those who want to indulge in Hanoi's cuisine, you can visit nearby eateries such as Dao Duy Tu Bean and Peach Porridge, Grilled Beef Xuân Xuân, Hai San Seafood Hanoi (68 Dao Duy Tu), Chốt! Cafe, and many beer joints, bars, and pubs.
MK Premier Boutique Hotel
Address: 72-74 Hang Buom Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price: From 1,279,800 VND/night
MK Premier Boutique Hotel
Located right on Hang Buom Street - one of the oldest streets in the heart of Hanoi is MK Premier Boutique Hotel. The accommodations here score points with a dominant wood color scheme and large windows that brighten the space while maintaining a cozy atmosphere.
With its prime location, the hotel is surrounded by delicious eateries waiting for you to come and enjoy. Among them are Little Hanoi - Vegetarian & Tranditional Food, Ghẹ Hấp Xuân Xuân 37 Hang Giay, Banh troi tau Pham Bang, Pho Vui - Hang Giay,... Here, you will find quite a few beer joints, bars, and pubs if you want to have a lively and dynamic evening.
The accommodation options here include: Deluxe Double Or Twin, Deluxe Double Or Twin With Balcony, Luxury Double Or Twin With Balcony, and Suite With Balcony; all already include a complimentary breakfast. From the hotel, guests can easily move to many famous dining and entertainment spots of the capital, the nearest being the renowned Ta Hien beer street.
May De Ville Premier Hotel & Spa
Address: 21 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price: From 1,915,139 VND/night
May De Ville Premier Hotel & Spa
Located on Luong Ngoc Quyen Street is May De Ville Premier Hotel & Spa, designed with inspiration from Indochine and French styles; showcasing luxury and sophistication that attracts visiting tourists.
It's known that the room categories here include: Superior Double, Deluxe Studio, Deluxe Double City View, Deluxe Double Studio, Premier Double City View, Studio Suite Terrace,... fully equipped with amenities and already include a complimentary breakfast.
Nearby tourist attractions include: Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, Ta Hien beer street,...
Delapong Hài Tượng - Studio Tạ Hiện
Address: 11 Hài Tượng Alley, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Price: From 719,100 VND/night
Delapong Hài Tượng - Studio Tạ Hiện
Located just steps away from the famous Ta Hien beer street, Delapong Hài Tượng - Studio Tạ Hiện is an ideal spot for travelers to enjoy vintage-style accommodation right on one of the busiest streets in the capital, immersing themselves in the lively and vibrant atmosphere every evening.
With wall paintings, cleverly decorated using rattan furniture and sunlit windows, this place has captivated many tourists and received numerous praises, promising to return in the near future. The accommodation options here include Standard, Attic, and Superior Balcony, with starting prices from just over 700K, making it extremely ideal for the location.
Hanoi Fiesta Hotel and Spa
Address: 9 Hàng Muối, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Pricing starts from 781,360 VND per night.
Hanoi Fiesta Hotel and Spa
Located in Hang Muoi, Hanoi Fiesta Hotel and Spa is an ideal choice for two reasons. First, it is 7 minutes from the Old Quarter, Ta Hien Street, and 15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake on foot. Second, the hotel's surroundings can be called a culinary paradise with the presence of many excellent restaurants. Among them are renowned names such as Bún Chả Ta, Cafe Giảng, Phở Mạnh Cường, Huyền Nem Rán Hàng Bè, Xôi Yến, Bún Riêu Cua Hàng Bạc,...
With deep blue accents combined with wooden furniture and charming decor items, the accommodations at Hanoi Fiesta promise to provide guests with a cozy and convenient space, complete with all amenities and various attractions, eateries, and entertainment just a few steps away.
Explore some hotel categories here that you shouldn't miss:
Sample itinerary for exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter
If you don't have much time to wander through the entire Old Quarter of Hanoi, a detailed itinerary is exactly what you need to prepare right away! Let's take a look at a day-long itinerary to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter with Mytour:
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM:
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM:
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM:
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM:
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM:
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM:
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM:
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM:
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM:
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM:
From 8:00 PM:
Some Tips for Exploring Hanoi Old Quarter
In Conclusion
Hanoi Old Quarter is a must-visit destination when traveling to Hanoi if you want to immerse yourself in the life and culture of ancient Hanoians. Preserving its timeless charm, the Old Quarter has stood the test of time, and we hope that through this article, Mytour has helped you experience a glimpse of its serene allure.
