Overview of Hanoi's Old Quarter

Hanoi's Old Quarter, also known as "Hanoi's 36 Wards", is a unique historical area located in the heart of the Capital. The neighborhood has a strategic location, located mainly to the west and north of Hoan Kiem Lake, serving as a commercial and cultural epicenter. Currently, the core area of ​​the Old Quarter is located in the administrative unit of Hoan Kiem Ward of Hanoi City. Hoan Kiem Ward is a lifeline area, connecting the traditional neighborhood with the area around the lake, playing an important role in the city's economic and tourism development.

Hanoi Old Quarter

Old Quarter with calendar Its history dates back to the Ly - Tran dynasties, closely associated with the development of Thang Long Citadel. This place concentrates trade villages, creating a unique "36 Streets" structure, with each street specializing in one item (for example: Hang Bac, Hang Gai). The Old Town preserves traditional tube house architecture and historical relics such as Bach Ma Temple (on Hang Buom Street), one of the Four Towns of Thang Long. As a commercial center (Dong Xuan Market) and cultural space (Weekend Walking Street), Hanoi's Old Quarter is a living heritage, attracting domestic and foreign tourists to explore the cuisine and ancient rhythm of life.

Outstanding attractions in Hanoi's Old Quarter

Hoan Kiem Lake Relics Complex

Hoan Kiem Lake

The Hoan Kiem Lake relic complex is a symbolic destination of the Capital, where the legend of King Le Thai To returning the precious sword is recorded. This area is located in the new Hoan Kiem Ward and is the cultural heart of Hanoi. The complex includes attractions such as the sacred Ngoc Son Temple, the ancient Turtle Tower, the brilliant red painted The Huc Bridge and the Pen Tower - Dai Nghien honoring education. Tourists coming here will not only be able to admire historical relics with high cultural value, but also enjoy the peaceful, fresh air in the heart of the city.

87 Ma May Ancient House

Ancient House 87 Ma May

The ancient house at 87 Ma May is one of the few traditional houses that still retains the intact architecture of the Old Quarter. The house has a "tube house" architectural feature with a narrow facade and long depth, combining sales space in the front and family living space in the back. Coming here, visitors can learn firsthand about the lifestyle, activities and architecture of ancient Thang Long people through restored interior artifacts. This is the ideal spot to explore urban heritage and feel the nostalgic beauty of Hanoi.

Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple is one of the four sacred Thang Long Towns - located on Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem Ward. The temple has a long history, worshiping the god Long Do - the protector of the capital. With ancient architecture and important historical value, Bach Ma Temple attracts tourists to offer incense, worship and learn about the folk beliefs of Hanoi people. Standing at the temple, visitors can feel the unique spiritual culture, mixed with the bustling commercial life of the Old Town.

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is the largest and oldest market in Hanoi, located north of the Old Quarter. This is considered the largest trading center in the region, providing a variety of goods from clothes and fabrics to household appliances and local specialties. On weekend nights, the area around the market and Hang Dao street turns into the bustling Dong Xuan Night Market. Visitors can explore the diverse cuisine at the market, shop for souvenirs and feel the bustling shopping atmosphere of the Old Quarter's people.

Walking Street and Mural Street

Bich Hoa Street Phung Hung

Walking Street (Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Space) stretches through the Old Quarter area and around Hoan Kiem Lake, operating on weekend nights (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). This place has become a giant cultural stage, with many street art activities, traditional and modern music, and folk games. In addition, Phung Hung Mural Street - located right next to the Old Town, at the foot of the ancient iron bridge arch - is decorated with large paintings recreating memories of old Hanoi. This is an ideal place to stroll, take photos and feel the colorful beauty of the Capital.

Other Attractions

In addition to the above destinations, the Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem Ward) also has many other attractive places:

  • O Quan Chuong: The only remaining ancient citadel gate of Thang Long Citadel Long, bearing the architectural imprint of the Nguyen Dynasty.

  • Quan Su Pagoda: An ancient pagoda located near the border of Hoan Kiem Ward, an important Buddhist center.

  • Ba Kieu Temple: A small temple located opposite Ngoc Son Temple, worshiping Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh.

  • Hang Ma Street: A colorful place, specializing in selling decorations and toys according to the traditional festival season (Mid-Autumn Festival, Tet).

  • Hanoi Opera House: A classic French architectural work located in the neighborhood, regularly organizing major art events.

  • Hang Bo Street Market: Where traditional fabric and brocade trading activities take place.

The most beautiful time to travel

Spring (February to April)

Spring is the time when Hanoi's Old Quarter has the most traditional and sacred beauty. The weather is cold and the air is cool, making it ideal for tourists to walk and visit temples and relics. This is the season when many traditional festivals take place after the Lunar New Year, especially rituals at Ngoc Son Temple and Bach Ma Temple, where the spiritual culture of Hanoians is most clearly shown. Visitors can feel the joyful, bustling atmosphere and enjoy the remaining traditional Tet dishes.

Summer (May to August)

Summer in the Old Quarter often has harsh sunlight and sudden showers, but this is also an exciting time for entertainment tourism. Visitors can find coolness and tranquility in classic cafes along Hang Gai and Hang Trong streets (in Hoan Kiem Ward), or enjoy famous cooling dishes such as Trang Tien ice cream and tofu. In particular, cultural activities and street art performances often take place more often in the area around Hoan Kiem Lake, bringing a vibrant nightlife experience.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is considered the most ideal and romantic time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter. The weather is cool, dry, sometimes with light yellow sunshine, creating a lyrical scene on the streets. This is a great time for walking, photography, and enjoying the scent of milk flowers. Tourists should visit the Walking Street area on weekends to feel the unique cultural atmosphere, or enjoy Fall cuisine such as green rice in Vong village or mooncakes on Hang Ngang and Hang Duong streets.

Winter (December to January)

Winter in the Old Town has cold, dry weather, sometimes with light fog in the early morning, creating a frame magical and ancient scene. Visitors can explore the quieter hidden corners of the neighborhood, visit cozy eateries to enjoy hot dishes such as Pho Thin (Lo Duc, near the border of Hoan Kiem Ward), bun thang or sit and sip a warm cup of egg coffee. This is the right season to feel the quiet, profound Hanoi and enjoy typical street cuisine in the chilly air.

Transportation information

By Air

Arrival airport: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), about 25–30 km from the Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem Ward).

Popular flight routes:

  • HCMC (SGN) → Hanoi (HAN) – Flight time about 2 hours.

  • Da Nang (DAD) → Hanoi (HAN) – Flight time about 1 hour 20 minutes.

  • Operating airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines.

Transportation from Noi Bai Airport to Old Quarter:

  • Taxi/Technology car: Travel time about 40–60 minutes, Price ranges from 250,000 - 400,000 VND (depending on time and vehicle type).

  • Public bus (Route 86/86CT): High quality bus route from Noi Bai Airport goes straight through the Old Quarter/Hoan Kiem Lake area. Ticket price is about 45,000 VND/way.

Note: Tourists from the Southern and Central provinces should choose air to save time.

By Road and Rail

Hanoi Station

Popular routes (Road):

  • From the Northern provinces: There are many high-quality bus routes from Hai Phong, Quang Ninh, Lao Cai... to Hanoi's major bus stations (My Dinh, Giap Bat, Gia Lam). Time and cost depend on each province.

Popular route (Rail):

  • HCMC → Hanoi: Thong Nhat SE train (about 30–35 hours).

  • Routes from China: Intermodal train international (if needed).

  • Arrival station: Hanoi Station (Hang Co Station) and Long Bien Station, both near the Old Quarter (Hanoi Station is about 2 km away).

Transportation from the Station/Bus Station to the Old Quarter: Taxis, traditional motorbike taxis or technology motorbike taxis.

Fare price Reference: Train Ho Chi Minh City ↔ Hanoi: about 900,000 - 1,800,000 VND/person (depending on seat/bed type).

Movement in the Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Most suitable means of transportation:

  • Walking: Ideal to explore every corner, architecture and street food, especially on weekend nights when the area organizes Walking Streets.

  • Cyclo: A unique traditional vehicle, suitable for sightseeing and slow tours around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter area. Price negotiable, usually around 100,000 - 150,000 VND/hour.

  • Electric car (Trolley): There are tourist routes around 36 Phuong Street and Hoan Kiem Lake, helping visitors save energy and still enjoy the panoramic view. Reference ticket price is about 20,000 - 35,000 VND/trip.

Other means of transportation:

  • Technology taxi/motorbike taxi: Convenient to move to farther points in Hoan Kiem Ward or out of the Old Quarter area.

  • Inner city buses: There are many bus routes passing through the Hoan Kiem Lake area, connecting the Old Quarter with other districts/wards in the city.

Note: The Old Quarter area is often very crowded and cars are limited at some hours, especially on weekends. Tourists should prioritize using compact vehicles.

Accommodation information

Luxury (4–5 Stars Boutique & Heritage)

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel is located at 15 Ngo Quyen Street, near the border of Hoan Kiem Ward, is a symbol of a 5-star classic hotel in Hanoi, built in 1901. Outstanding hotel with ancient French architecture, luxurious interior and full world-class amenities such as swimming pool, spa, Michelin-standard restaurant (or other international awards). According to major booking sites, room prices at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi range from 5,000,000 - 15,000,000 VND/night, depending on room type and time of booking.

Capella Hanoi Hotel is located at 11 Le Phung Hieu Street, also near the Old Quarter area. This is a luxury hotel meeting international 5-star standards, famous for its unique design inspired by the Opera house. Capella Hanoi offers sophisticated resort space, modern amenities and personalized service. According to reputable booking platforms, the average room price is about 4,500,000 - 12,000,000 VND/night, depending on room type and tourist season.

Hotel Capella Hanoi

If you want more options for a luxury vacation in the center of Hoan Kiem Ward, you can consider other quality boutique hotels:

  • La Siesta Classic Ma May – No. 9C, Ma May Street – Price about 2,500,000 – 4,000,000 VND/night

  • The Oriental Jade Hotel – No. 92 Hang Trong – Price about 2,800,000 – 4,500,000 VND/night

  • Peridot Grand Luxury Boutique Hotel – No. 33 Duong Thanh Street – Price about 3,000,000 – 5,500,000 VND/night

Tri Nghiem (2–3 star hotel, Hostel & Homestay)

Hanoi Old Quarter Hotel is a popular 3-star hotel, located on streets such as Hang Bong, Hang Gai, near the center of Hoan Kiem Ward. The hotel has modern, clean rooms, complete with basic amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. This type is suitable for travelers who want comfortable accommodation at a reasonable cost. According to booking sites, the average price is about 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND/night for 2 adults.

Old Quarter Hostel/Homestay is concentrated in small alley areas on Hang Bac and Hang Chieu streets. These facilities are designed in a minimalist, youthful style, making them an ideal choice for backpackers or those who want to save money. Visitors can enjoy a cozy common space and easily interact with international tourists.

For tourists who love cozy spaces, reasonable costs but still have full amenities, the following places are worth a try:

  • Little Charm Hostel – No. 48 Hang Gai Street – Price from 400,000 – 700,000 VND/night (private room)

  • Hanoi Cozy Hotel – No. 30 Lo Su Street – Price from 700,000 – 1,200,000 VND/night

  • Hanoi Guesthouse – No. 16 Ngo Huyen – Price from 600,000 – 900,000 VND/night

Festival cuisine and culture 

High-end restaurant

The Rhythms Restaurant is located at 33 - 35 Hang Dau Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi. The restaurant is famous for its modern International and Vietnamese cuisine, especially the panoramic view of Hoan Kiem Lake and Old Town from the high floor. The menu is diverse, harmoniously combining European and Asian dishes. Average price is from 600,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person.

The Rhythms Restaurant

Home Vietnamese Restaurant located at 34 Chau Long Street. The restaurant features traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a luxurious villa space. The highlight is Vietnamese family dishes that are enhanced and skillfully presented. Average price is 500,000 - 900,000 VND/person.

Some other high-class culinary places you can refer to in the Old Quarter area/around Hoan Kiem Lake:

  • Hemispheres Steak & Seafood Grill - Located at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, K5 P. Nghi Tam, Yen Phu Ward – Price about 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 VND/person

  • Tung Dining – 9th Floor, La Siesta Classic Hang Thung, 27 Hang Thung Ward, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem – Nice view, price from 500,000 VND/person

  • Lighthouse Sky Bar & Restaurant – Floors 10-11 La Siesta Premium Hang Be, 94 Hang Be Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem – Price from 650,000 - 1,300,000 VND/person

Old Quarter street food

Pho Bat Dan

Pho is the "soul" of Hanoi cuisine, and Pho Bat Dan (No. 49 Bat Dan Street) is one of the most traditional pho restaurants, located in Hoan Kiem Ward. Pho here is famous for its clear, sweet, bone-infused broth, soft and chewy pho noodles, and quality beef (rare, well-cooked). Customers often have to line up and serve themselves ("Pho queuing" style), creating a unique culinary culture. Simple pho dish with rich traditional flavor.

Suggested address:

  • Pho Bat Dan - No. 49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem Ward: Famous for traditional beef pho, standard Hanoi flavor.

  • Pho Ly Quoc Su - No. 10 Ly Quoc Su (near the border of Hoan Kiem Ward): Serving rare beef pho, pho with wine sauce in a clean space.

  • Hang Chieu Pho Ganh Chieu - Hang Chieu - Hang Duong intersection (Night sale): Experience traditional Pho Ganh Chieu, with unique cultural features.

Bun Cha and Fish Cake

An indispensable specialty when referring to the Old Quarter is Bun Cha. Bun Cha Hang Quat is famous for its fragrant charcoal-grilled patties. The pork is richly marinated, grilled to a golden brown, served with sweet and sour dipping sauce and green papaya.

Suggested address:

  • Bun Cha Hang Quat - Alley 74 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem Ward: Specializes in traditional charcoal-grilled vermicelli noodles.

  • Cha Ca La Vong – No. 14 Cha Ca Street, Hoan Kiem Ward: A long-standing restaurant specializing in serving only the famous Cha Ca La Vong (fried fish with turmeric and dill).

  • Hang Khay Shrimp Paste Vermicelli – No. 31 Hang Khay (near Hoan Kiem Lake): Serves delicious vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste and clean.

Culture Festivals & Community Experiences

Weekend Walking Street Space

Opening on weekend nights (Friday, Saturday, Sunday), Walking Street is the largest cultural event in the Old Quarter. The entire area around Hoan Kiem Lake and neighboring streets such as Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Trang Tien (in Hoan Kiem Ward) are banned from vehicles, turning into entertainment, street art and culinary spaces. Visitors can participate in folk games (jumping stalls, mandarin umbrellas), enjoy traditional and modern music, or simply enjoy the bustling festival atmosphere, which is a meeting place and cultural exchange for the people of the Capital.

Ngoc Son Temple Festival

Ngoc Son Temple Festival

Held at the beginning of Spring (the second month of the lunar calendar), Ngoc Son Temple Festival honors Wenchang De Quan and Saint Tran Hung Dao, associated with the sacred Sword Lake symbol. The ceremony took place solemnly with incense offering and palanquin procession; The festival is exciting with folk games, cheo singing, and ca tru singing. The festival is not only an opportunity for the people of the Old Quarter to pray for blessings and peace, but also an opportunity for visitors to explore the unique spiritual culture of ancient Thang Long.

Other cultural festivals in the Old Quarter:

  • Dong Xuan Market Festival - Usually held at the beginning of the lunar year: With offerings and buying and selling activities at the beginning of the year.

  • Hang Luoc/Hang Ma Craft Ancestor Worshiping Ceremony – Second lunar month: Honoring the traditional crafts of the Old Quarter.

  • Hang Ma Street Mid-Autumn Festival - August lunar month: The most brilliant place with traditional and modern items serving the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Amusement area

Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem Ward) not only has historical relics but is also a nighttime entertainment and culinary center, bringing many experiences diverse and unique experiences for tourists.

Ta Hien Beer Street

Ta Hien Street - a street known as the "international crossroads" in the heart of the Old Quarter (in Hoan Kiem Ward) - is the most vibrant place in Hanoi at night. Along both sides of the road are a series of beer shops, snacks and fragrant grilled dishes. Visitors can sit on small plastic chairs, sip cool draft beer at affordable prices, and chat together in a bustling space.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located right next to Hoan Kiem Lake (No. 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem Ward), is a place to perform one of the most popular folk arts. The most unique in Vietnam. Water puppetry is a traditional theater art that dates back thousands of years, expressing daily activities, folk legends and festivals through performances on water.

Old Quarter and the surrounding area also have many attractive entertainment venues suitable for both tourists and locals who want to relax and explore:

  • Hanoi Book Street – No. 19/12 (near the border of Hoan Kiem Ward): A space for reading, coffee and cultural exchange in the heart of the old town, suitable for those who love tranquility and knowledge.

  • Trang Tien Plaza Commercial Center - No. 24 Hai Ba Trung (near Hoan Kiem Ward): High-end shopping center, where visitors can shop for international brands and enjoy cuisine real food.

  • Ly Thai To Flower Garden - Located next to Hoan Kiem Lake: Spacious public area, where morning fitness and sports activities and community cultural events take place.

Suggested tours

Experience tours

Half-day Old Quarter Tour (Half-day Old Quarter Tour)

  • Itinerary: Hoan Kiem Lake – Ngoc Son Temple – Ancient House 87 Ma May – Hang Ma Street – Dong Xuan Market – Thang Long Water Puppet Experience.

  • Transportation Transportation: Walk, Cyclo or Electric car.

  • Reference tour price: 350,000 - 500,000 VND/person (depending on the service, including water puppet tickets).

  • Organization unit: Hanoi Free Tour Guides, local travel companies method.

Hanoi Street Food Tour

  • Itinerary: Explore special dishes in the Old Quarter such as Pho Bat Dan, Bun Cha Hang Quat, Hang Gai Street Egg Coffee, Trang Tien Ice Cream.

  • Transportation: Walking.

  • Reference tour price: 500,000 - 750,000 VND/person (Including food costs at 6-8 locations).

  • Organizer: Hanoi Local Tour, independent culinary guides.

Cultural - historical tour

1 Day Ancient Thang Long Tour

Hoang Thanh Thang Long

  • Itinerary: Old Town (Hoan Kiem Ward) - Hoa Lo Prison - Temple of Literature - National Tu Giam - Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum - One Pillar Pagoda.

  • Transportation: 16-seat tourist car or motorbike.

  • Reference tour price: 750,000 - 950,000 VND/person (including lunch and entrance ticket).

  • Organizer: Hanoitourist, major travel companies.

Tour to explore the Old Town by car Cycling

  • Itinerary: Cycling through traditional craft streets (Hang Bac, Hang Gai, Hang Ma) - Bach Ma Temple - Quan Chuong Gate - Stop to enjoy ice cream/egg coffee.

  • Transportation: Rented bicycle or bicycle from the organization unit organization.

  • Reference tour price: 400,000 - 600,000 VND/person.

  • Organizing unit: Hanoi Cycling Tour, bicycle rental units in the Old Quarter.

Tour night travel

>Ta Hien Ancient Town & Beer Street Tour

  • Itinerary: Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street (weekend) – Enjoy street music – Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Ta Hien Street – Enjoy draft beer and typical snacks.

  • Transportation: Walking.

  • Reference tour price: 200,000 - 400,000 VND/person (Mainly the guide fee and initial drink cost).

  • Organization unit: Nightlife Tour groups, fish guides

Night Motorbike Tour to Explore Hanoi

  • Itinerary: Old Town – Long Bien Bridge (night view) – West Lake – Dinner at famous night eateries – Experience the atmosphere of Hanoi at night.

  • Transportation Transportation: Motorbike (with private driver).

  • Reference tour price: 800,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person.

  • Organization unit: Hanoi Motorbike Tour, Backstreet Tours.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem Ward) is a traditional shopping center, where visitors can find many unique souvenirs, imbued with Hanoi's traditional culture and crafts.

Handicrafts and Fabrics

Souvenirs on Hang Gai Street

Exquisite handmade products, demonstrating the skillful workmanship of Hanoi craftsmen, are popular souvenirs. Visitors can find high quality Silk and Fabrics sewn into scarves, handbags or ao dai at Hang Gai Street. This is also where shops selling Silk Paintings and Lacquer Paintings with themes about ancient Hanoi landscapes are concentrated. These gifts are highly aesthetic, suitable as meaningful gifts for international friends, with an elegant shopping space and diverse designs.

Traditional Jewelry and Souvenirs

In the Hoan Kiem Ward area, visitors can find gifts with historical and customary values. Handmade Jewelry from traditional shops is a special choice on Hang Bac Street, reflecting the long-standing craftsmanship here. Besides, Folk Toys and Decorations (such as lanterns, papier-mâché masks) are very popular, especially on Hang Ma Street, a colorful place during Tet holidays. These are simple items but contain childhood memories and profound traditional culture.

Hanoi Cuisine Specialties

Culinary souvenirs are an indispensable part when visiting the Old Quarter. Tourists should buy types of Apricot and Jam (such as apricot apricot and ginger) with the typical sweet and sour flavor of Hanoi, which can be found at stores on Hang Duong Street. In addition, Com Lang Vong (usually available in the Fall) and other traditional candies are also exquisite culinary gifts. For dried specialties and general goods, visitors can visit Dong Xuan Market - the city's largest and oldest market.

Support information and other information

To have the safest and most convenient trip in the center of the Capital, visitors should save emergency contact information and official support agencies in the Old Quarter area (Hoan Kiem Ward).

Tourism Police and Security Support

In the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake area, the security system is always strengthened, especially on weekends.

  • Hanoi City Police/Emergency Switchboard:

    • Report/Emergency security support: 113

    • Fire alarm/Fire prevention: 114

    • Hoan Kiem Ward Police (2 Ward Co Tan, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem): 024 3825 5538

  • General Department of Market Management - Protecting consumer rights:

    • Contact switchboard: 1900.888.655

    • Contact when encountering problems with non-transparent prices, counterfeit goods or improper business practices.

Nearest Medical and Emergency Services

When needing urgent medical assistance, visitors should quickly contact the emergency number and know the major hospitals near the Old Quarter area.

  • Emergency Switchboard: 115

  • General Hospital Viet Duc Friendship:

    • Support phone number: 1900 1902

    • Address: 40 Trang Thi Street, Hoan Kiem District (about 1.5 km from Hoan Kiem Lake).

Tourism and Service Support

To have the best experience and protect travel rights, tourists should use the following support channels:

  • National tourism support hotline:

    • Contact phone number: 0941 33 66 77

    • Useful for answering questions, consulting travel information and receiving feedback.

  • Noi Bai Airport – Guest Support Center:

    • Contact number: (+84) 024 3886 5047

    • Useful if you need information about luggage or airport services.

These agencies operate regularly and are ready to assist travelers in any situation. 

Wishing you a wonderful trip, full of interesting experiences and discovering the beauty of Hanoi's Old Quarter