Hanoi Old Quarter
Where ancient streets tell stories.
🥉 Recommended
4.6 ⭐ (8K)
Introduction
Hanoi Old Quarter (Phố cổ Hà Nội) is the historic commercial and cultural center of Vietnam's capital. This dense network of streets, which originated as 36 trade guilds, has been a hub of commerce for over 1,000 years. The area is defined by its unique blend of Vietnamese "tube house" architecture and French-colonial influences, all centered around the legendary Hoan Kiem Lake. It remains the city's primary destination for street food, shopping, and cultural exploration.
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple
The geographical and spiritual heart of Hanoi. Walk across the bright red The Huc Bridge (Cầu Thê Húc) to visit Ngoc Son Temple on a small island, which is dedicated to historical figures and the legend of the returned sword. The lake is a popular spot for locals to exercise, socialise, and relax.
The 36 Streets (36 Phố Phường)
The essence of the Old Quarter is wandering its historic streets. While now numbering more than 70, the original 36 streets were named for the specific craft or "hàng" sold there. Explore Hàng Bạc (Silver Street), Hàng Gai (Silk Street), and Hàng Mã (Votive Paper Street) to see remnants of this guild-based history.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
Constructed by the French colonial government in 1886, this neo-gothic cathedral is a prominent architectural landmark. Its imposing twin bell towers contrast sharply with the surrounding Vietnamese architecture. The area around the cathedral is a popular gathering spot with numerous cafes and restaurants.
Getting there
The Old Quarter is the tourist hub, so most visitors will stay within or near it. Getting around is the main activity.
🚶 Walking: The best way to experience the area. The entire core is compact enough to explore on foot, allowing you to absorb the details, sounds, and smells.
🛺 Cyclo (Xích Lô): A three-wheeled bicycle taxi. It's a slow-paced way to see the sights but requires clear price negotiation beforehand. A short 20-minute ride should cost around 100,000 - 150,000 VND ~ $4 - $6 USD.
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab): Using Grab Bike (motorbike) or Grab Car is an efficient way to cover slightly longer distances or to get back to your hotel after a long day of walking.
⚠️ Traffic within the Old Quarter is famously chaotic and can be intimidating. Motorbikes are the primary form of transport and will flow around you. When walking, maintain a steady, predictable pace.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- The Old Quarter itself is a public area and is always accessible.
- Weekend Pedestrian Streets & Night Market: Typically operates from 7:00 PM on Friday to midnight on Sunday. Hours can vary for holidays.
- Individual Attractions: Shops and temples within the quarter have their own hours, generally from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM or later.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Old Quarter Entry: Free.
- Ngoc Son Temple: 30,000 VND ~ $1.20 USD for adults.
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre: Ticket prices range from 100,000 - 200,000 VND ~ $4 - $8 USD depending on the seat.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time of year is during Hanoi's autumn (September to November) for pleasant, dry weather. To avoid the largest crowds and midday heat, explore the streets early in the morning (6-9 AM). For the most energetic atmosphere, visit on a weekend evening when the walking streets are active.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for at least one full day to walk through the main streets and see the highlights. To explore more deeply, discover hidden cafes, and sample more food, budget two to three days.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🍜 Street food is a highlight of the Old Quarter. For the best experience, choose vendors that are busy with local customers. High turnover means the ingredients are fresh, and popularity is a reliable sign of quality.
☕ The Old Quarter is full of hidden cafes offering a peaceful escape from the street-level noise. Don't be afraid to walk down a narrow alley or up an unmarked staircase. You can often find quiet terraces with great views, like the famous "egg coffee" cafes overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.
📸 To capture the best photographs of the architecture and street life, go out early in the morning around sunrise. The light is soft, the streets are less crowded with tourists, and you'll witness the city waking up as locals set up their shops and food stalls.
💡 The single most important skill to learn in the Old Quarter is how to cross the street. Do not wait for a complete break in traffic because it will not come. Instead, step off the curb and walk slowly and confidently at a predictable, steady pace. The motorbike drivers are experts at anticipating your path and will flow around you.
Be aware
🛺 When taking a cyclo, always agree on the final price, the currency (VND, not USD), and the duration of the ride before you get in. Some drivers are known to demand a much higher fare at the end of the trip. Writing the agreed price on a piece of paper or in your phone's calculator can prevent disputes.
🛍️ While browsing in shops or at the night market, be prepared for persistent vendors. A polite "không, cảm ơn" (no, thank you) and walking away is usually sufficient. Be mindful that in some smaller souvenir shops, a dual-pricing system may be in effect; bargaining is the norm.
⚠️ The Old Quarter, especially the night market and crowded streets, can be a target for pickpockets. Keep your wallet, phone, and valuables in a secure, zipped bag that you keep in front of you. Be aware of your surroundings, particularly when you stop to watch street performers or browse stalls.
FAQs
What are the "36 Streets"?
It's the traditional name for the historic urban core of Hanoi. Historically, each of the 36 streets was dedicated to one specific trade or guild, like silver, silk, or bamboo.
How do you cross the street in the Old Quarter?
Walk slowly and at a steady, predictable pace. Do not make sudden stops or run. The thousands of motorbike drivers will anticipate your movement and navigate around you.
Is the Hanoi Old Quarter walkable?
Yes, it is very walkable. In fact, walking is the best way to explore its narrow streets, alleys, and shops. The entire central area can be covered on foot.
When are the walking streets open?
The pedestrian-only zones and the weekend night market typically operate from Friday at 7:00 PM until Sunday at midnight.
What is there to do at night?
The Old Quarter is very active at night. You can visit the weekend night market, enjoy street food, have a drink at the bars around Ta Hien Street (often called "Beer Street"), or watch a water puppet show.
Is it necessary to bargain?
Bargaining is expected at markets and with many street vendors and cyclo drivers. In restaurants with listed prices or in established boutiques, prices are generally fixed.
What is the most famous food to try?
You must try Phở (noodle soup), Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles), and Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich). For a unique local drink, try Cà Phê Trứng (egg coffee).
Is the Old Quarter safe for tourists?
Yes, it is generally very safe. The primary concerns are traffic and petty crimes like pickpocketing. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Be aware of your surroundings in crowds.
Can you still visit Train Street?
Access to Train Street is often restricted by authorities for safety reasons, and many cafes along the tracks have been closed. While some visitors still manage to get in, you should not plan your trip around it as access is not guaranteed.
How much time do I need for the Old Quarter?
A minimum of one full day is needed to see the main sights. However, to truly experience the atmosphere, try the food, and explore at a relaxed pace, two to three days are ideal.
Last updated:
