Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also known as the Hoan Kiem district, is a neighborhood of narrow streets that immerses you in the country’s history, colonization, and wars at every turn, while seamlessly blending with contemporary Vietnam. This multicultural area is a popular choice for many travelers, who either stay in its numerous hotels or opt for accommodations in local homes—an increasingly accessible option through platforms like Airbnb.
If you’re in Hanoi, you can explore the intricate streets of the Old Quarter on your own. However, to make the most of your visit to Vietnam’s capital, we recommend these two guided tours:
The Old Quarter is one of Hanoi’s must-visit attractions, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich past. Here, you’ll find colonial buildings and French-style landmarks, such as St. Joseph’s Cathedral—a miniature version of Notre-Dame near Hoan Kiem Lake.
The name of this lake, when translated into English, means “Lake of the Restored Sword,” referring to the legend of Lê Lợi, a fisherman who received a magical sword from a turtle in the lake. With its power, he defeated the Ming dynasty and became king.
Everything surrounding this lake is fascinating, particularly its islets. The largest of them is home to Ngọc Sơn Temple, or “Temple of the Jade Mountain,” which can be accessed via the red Huc Bridge. This temple was built to honor Confucian and Taoist philosophers.
A second, smaller islet, Tháp Rùa, is inaccessible to visitors and serves as a sanctuary for endangered turtles—further linking it to the legend of Lê Lợi’s sword.
To learn more about the region’s history in an engaging way, visit the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre near the lake. Their traditional water puppet show is an entertaining masterclass in the ancient culture of Vietnam. Highly recommended!
Now that we know a bit about the history of the Old Quarter, let’s fast-forward to the present. This area is not only ideal for budget-friendly accommodation but also perfect for wandering through its streets, enjoying a Bia Hoi; a locally brewed beer made fresh daily in Vietnam and one of the cheapest in the world.
I recommend trying it on Hang Dieu Street—if you can find a spot! You’ll come across makeshift beer taps where you can grab an ice-cold one.
For beer enthusiasts, Bia Hoi is a fresh and light pilsner, with an alcohol content of around 4%. To complement your drink, indulge in some Vietnamese cuisine at one of the many street food stalls. Go for a bowl of pho noodles or a delicious bánh mì sandwich.
But don’t lose track of your surroundings after a couple of Bia Hois—watch out when crossing the streets! The chaotic mix of motorbikes, bicycles, cyclos, and pedestrians makes traffic in this area a real challenge. Consider it a great place to practice navigating the organized chaos typical of Vietnamese cities.
This neighborhood is also a shopping paradise. Many of its streets still bear the names of the goods that were traditionally sold when this area was the city’s main commercial hub.
Today, this tradition lives on through more than 30 “themed” streets, each beginning with Hàng, meaning “merchandise,” where you can find everything from stunning fabrics to the latest tech gadgets.
If daytime shopping isn’t enough, head to the Hanoi Night Market on Hang Dao Street, open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6 p.m. to midnight.
A neighborhood that never sleeps—bustling with energy both day and night. It’s the perfect place to start your journey in Hanoi and learn how to navigate the city’s vibrant streets.
Note: You can reach the Old Quarter directly from Hanoi Airport via Express Bus 86. Check out the link above for all the details.
