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Hanoi Old Quarter is an area within Hoan Kiem District. This urban area began to form and develop during the feudal era when the capital was still known as Thang Long. Nowadays, the Old Quarter has become increasingly attractive to visitors from near and far.
The Old Quarter retains its ancient charm within the heart of a modern capital. Photo: Bois Indochine
Residents here engage in handicrafts and trade, creating specialized craft streets that showcase the distinctive traditions of urban communities. Every corner and alley holds something new and unique. If you have a full day to explore Hanoi Old Quarter, join Asia King Travel to discover what amazing experiences await you.
Around 6 a.m., stepping out onto the streets, visitors can enjoy the fresh air of roads still untouched by traffic. The temperature is comfortable, whether it’s winter or summer. If it’s winter and you’re not used to the cold, put on a long-sleeved shirt and head over to Hoan Kiem Lake for some morning exercise.
Elderly people enjoy coming to Hoan Kiem Lake to exercise at early dawn. Photo: Nguyen Ngoc Tu
When you arrive, you'll immediately feel the gentle breeze coming from the lake and catch the scent of plants greeting the sunrise. Do a few basic exercises, stretch, or simply take a stroll around the lake to refresh your body with the cool, fresh air. Many elderly locals come here at the crack of dawn, and watching them perform unique exercise routines is a great way to start immersing yourself in the rhythm of life in the capital.
In the Old Quarter, countless famous pho stalls with regular patrons come every day. These pho stalls often have decades of history, with skills passed down through generations. Pho Thin by the Lake, at 61 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, is a must try. Since 1955, it has become famous all over Vietnam and even served international politicians.
That small house has been making famous pho for over 70 years. Photo: aFamily
Many other small pho stalls are also worth trying. When Michelin came to Vietnam, several places received distinctions like “Selected” (recommended by Michelin) and “Bib Gourmand” (great taste, affordable price). For a bit of a street vibe, you can find a sidewalk stall and serve yourself on plastic tables and chairs. Other delicious breakfast options include banh mi, bun cha, sticky rice, etc.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful morning view of the St. Joseph’s Cathedral area from a cozy coffee spot. Cong Cafe and Hanoi House are classic looking like Hanoi from the past century. Starbucks is also there, providing a modern, youthful atmosphere that feels familiar and welcoming to Western visitors.
The coffee shop is also nestled within the old house. Photo: Travellive
The special is that each season in the capital provides unique snacks. During summer, it’s tofu pudding. During autumn, green rice, in winter, roasted sweet potatoes, and in spring, different types of candied fruit. Street vendors and shops around the cathedral will sell you these treats.
Instead of noise and pollution from the traffic, visitors can sit back and relax on a traditional cyclo. The whole route is great for tourists to film, picture, notice and watch the historical sites and the wonderful style of Hanoi. Try counting how many streets have the name "Hang" and what occupations the locals have. The friendly driver will be happy to assist you! An hour's ride will cost anywhere from VND 200,000 to 300,000.
Next to the famous market of the same name, affectionately known as “food stalls paradise”, Dong Xuan Alley is made up of dozens of stalls selling local specialties. Lunchtime is always crowded with customers patronizing for delicious foods at very cheap prices.
Stalls to stalls in a small alley. Photo: Hanoimoi
A bowl of hu tieu would be the most delicious and filling lunch option. However, you can easily order a smaller portion if you want to try different dishes. The shop owner understands the desire of tourists to experience a range of flavors, so they are happy to accommodate. You don't need to go far; just slide over to the next seat, and you can order a serving of bun cha or a dessert of sweet soup.
After a delicious meal and some rest, there’s no reason not to head over to the nearby Dong Xuan Market. This is a very spacious market with three floors and various types of goods are available. You can find goods easily and worry no more about being overcharged. Be sure to look for souvenirs to remember this memorable journey before heading to your next destination.
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These two streets may be the best places to create some pretty good romantic moments. Phan Dinh Phung Street features a row of century-old rosewood and milk flower trees providing cool shade, making the road always filled with a gentle breeze. Meanwhile, Hoang Dieu Street stands out with vibrant purple flowering jacaranda trees.
The streets becomes most romantic in autumn. Photo: VOV
When sunlight runs through the leaves, you’ll often see girls in traditional ao dai dresses posing with flowers for photos. The light is just right to create stunning, dreamy shots. Don’t get so captivated watching them that you forget you’re also here to take your photos with Hanoi’s romantic backdrop!
Westlake is not situated within the Old Quarter; it is just around the corner, a street or two, actually. Being the largest lake in the city, it has enough space to enjoy the sunset to the fullest. Biking here not only allows you to get a small amount of exercise but is also the best way to view the lake for yourself.
The still lake surface is like a mirror reflecting the sunlight. Photo: Suc khoe & Doi song
The bike rental shops on Nguyen Dinh Thi Street are the closest to the Old Quarter, with rental prices around VND 50,000. The lakeside path stretches about 20 kilometers, allowing you to stop anywhere to take in the scenery at your leisure. After about two hours of cycling, the sun will start to dip below the horizon. West Lake faces the sunset, so wherever you are along the shore, you can capture the last brilliant rays casting their glow over the lake.
Cha Ca La Vong is a dish deeply tied to Hanoi cuisine. It’s made from fresh lang fish, which is low in bones and naturally sweet. The fish pieces are marinated with aromatic spices and turmeric, giving them a golden hue. They are lightly fried and served sizzling in a hot pan with added dill and spring onions. Cha Ca is enjoyed with vermicelli, shrimp paste, and roasted peanuts. The only restaurant on Cha Ca Street is where this culinary delight originated.
Try to get used to shrimp paste, it is the best dipping sauce for Cha Ca La Vong. Photo: Best Plus
Let’s wrap up Hanoi from above with a cocktail to end a marvelous day. Watching the city sparkle under the lights and enjoying live music gives you a feeling of familiarity with this place. Rooftop bars have popped up all over the Old Quarter, each with its unique style.
A place to sit and share stories about your day. Photo: Lighthouse Sky Bar
Lighthouse Bar is the best rooftop bar in Hanoi, resembling a cruise ship on a 3-storey building at 27 Hang Be Street. Moonlight Sky Bar is proud of their signature cocktails at 94 Ma May Street. Terraco Sky Bar at 35 Hang Dau Street has a view embracing Hoan Kiem Lake,... And many more you can choose from.
A day in Hanoi Old Quarter may be short, but you've made it truly memorable with so many exciting activities. Are there other experiences you're craving? Contact Asia King Travel, and we’ll suggest a tailor-made itinerary just for you!
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