Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a beloved destination for international visitors, offering a rich tapestry of culture and history. However, without insights from locals, travellers might miss out on hidden gems and authentic experiences. In this article, Lily’s Travel will guide you through what to do in the Old Quarter to ensure you can make the most of your visit.
Top Things to Do in Hanoi Old Quarter?
Hanoi Old Quarter, often known as the Hoan Kiem District or just 36 Streets, is one of the city’s oldest regions and most famous sights. Some may ask “What to do in Hanoi Old Quarter?”. To answer this question, here is the checkout list of top things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter.
Shopping at Hanoi Old Quarter Markets
In the list of things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter, shopping in Hanoi is a must. Hanoi is undoubtedly a shopper’s paradise, from bustling local markets to world-class malls. If this is your first time visiting this fascinating city, here are some famous shopping areas in Hanoi Old Quarter for an unforgettable shopping spree!
1. Dong Xuan Market
Serving as one of Hanoi’s largest wholesale markets, Dong Xuan Market has a vibrant environment that draws visitors worldwide. In Dong Xuan, tourists will discover many local products, from vibrant fabrics, traditional handicrafts, tasty street cuisine, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. However, when you visit the market, bargaining is a must here. This will give tourists a chance to show their negotiating skills to get steal prices.
- Address: No. 15, Cau Dong Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District
- Opening hours: 5 a.m.–7 p.m. (food courts can close later)
2. Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market
The market takes place in the centre of the Old Quarter. With almost 4,000 stalls, the night market in Hanoi Old Quarter is a treasure trove of items, offering everything from fashionable clothing, accessories, and footwear to handicrafts, souvenirs, and local street cuisine. However, before you explore the market, remember to bring cash for smoother transactions, and keep a watchful eye on their possessions.
- Address: Hang Dao – Hang Ngang – Hang Luoc Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6 p.m.–11 p.m. (from Friday evening to Sunday).
3. Hom Market
Placed on Hang Non Street, provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind and authentic shopping experience in Hanoi. The ground floor of Hom Market is a heaven for fabric lovers, with a diverse selection of colors, textures, and patterns. Meanwhile, the smells of street food from Hanoi fill the air as you ascend to the second floor. Indulge on a culinary adventure and indulge your taste buds in classic Vietnamese cuisines including aromatic pho, delicious banh mi, spicy cha ca, and so on.
- Address: 79 Hue Street, Ngo Thi Nham Ward, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6 a.m.–5 p.m. every day
While shopping is one of the top things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter. Here are some spots you can check out. For further information, please contact Lily’s Travel to book a Hanoi tour or find out about other engaging tours that spark your travelling passion. At Lily’s Travel, we ensure your tour is the most comfortable with already booked transportation, accommodations, and restaurants.
Discover Hanoi’s Traditional Crafts
Besides shopping, discovering Hanoi’s traditional crafts is also on the list of Hanoi old quarter what to do”. The Old Quarter of Hanoi is often known as the “36 Streets,” with the majority named after artisan guilds and enterprises, these streets have existed for hundreds of years and serve as the focal point for the capital city’s growth. Nowadays, the Old Quarter’s 36 Streets are still a hive of commerce and activity, a bustling economic centre broken up by powerlines and narrow lanes, far from being outmoded.
Heading to Hang Ma Street or Paper Street. As one of the busiest thoroughfares, Hang Ma is well-known for its customary manufacture and exchange of paper goods, ceremonial objects, and ornamental accessories. Shopping at Hang Ma Street not only offers the opportunity to obtain one-of-a-kind and signature products but also to experience the dynamic and colorful atmosphere that distinguishes Hanoi’s Old Quarter shopping.
Silver Street is on Hang Bac. This is a must-visit location for jewelry connoisseurs. Namely, Silver Street, Hang Bac shows the great legacy of silver craftsmanship through its various jewellery boutiques. Here, visitors can discover both plain silver products and those adorned with intricate engravings, which demonstrate the workers’ expertise and artistic ability.
Hang Duong is Sugar Street, this street is a popular retailing area for traveling to Hanoi’s Old Quarter. As you stroll down this crowded street, you’ll be fascinated by its diverse selection of confectionery, which includes dried fruits, flavored candies, and exquisite pastries. In Hang Duong, tourists can look over plenty of stores and kiosks selling these delectable treats by weight. On special events like Tet and the Mid-Autumn Festival, Hang Duong Street often transforms into an energetic marketplace, where locals and visitors come to buy festive snacks and traditional mooncakes. The roadway is festooned with beautiful lanterns and holiday decorations, presenting a celebratory and joyous ambience.
Take a Cyclo Tour Around Hanoi Old Quarter
Cyclo, one of the Hanoi Old Quarter things to do, is a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi invented by A French gentleman from Charente and brought to Vietnam in 1939. However, since tourism began in Vietnam in the early 1990s, Cyclos has been utilized to transport tourists to the old streets of Hanoi, Hoian, and HCM City.
Embarking on a cyclo tour through Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers a unique opportunity to traverse all 36 streets, passing by iconic landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Hanoi Opera House. Traveling by Cyclo, you can easily immerse yourself in the Old Quarter’s charming and energetic atmosphere.
With Cyclo, here are things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter:
- One hour to explore the Old Quarter.
- Cruise around the 36 Streets.
- Pass by prominent places and historical sites such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the Hanoi Opera House
- Immerse in the vibrant local culture.
Note: Because the Cyclo does not have a seat belt, therefore there is nothing in front to protect customers. At first, people are concerned when they take the Cyclo, but once you get used to it, you will start to feel at ease and can more easily see and take photos of the streets and people. Moreover, those drivers know how to keep you safe and entertained during the trip.
If you want to book the cyclo tour around Hanoi Old Quarter, please contact Lily’s Travel for further assistance and instant response.
Enjoy Hanoi Old Quarter’s Nightlife
Unlike any other city in Southeast Asia or maybe the world, Hanoi offers a plethora of unique nighttime activities. While its nightclubs are unlikely to garner many accolades, there are plenty of enjoyable and interesting things to see and do.
The contrasts between each area are part of what makes Hanoi so unique, and in this section, Lily’s Travel will provide you with some interesting options dispersed throughout town, including the greatest bars, clubs, live music venues, and even family entertainment!
1. Twilight Sky Bar
This stylish and private space lives up to its name. This is one of the nicest places in Hanoi to have a drink while the sun sets over Hoan Kiem Lake. With 270-degree city vistas, the environment produced is the finest of both worlds.
The Twilight Bar is the main attraction, offering a wide selection of wines, unique cocktails, beers, and spirits, as well as an enticing list of non-alcoholic drinks.
- Open daily: 9:00 – 24:00
- Address: 1 Cau Go Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Tel: +84 24 3938 0963
2. Bia Hoi Junction
This crossroads in the downtown area of the Old Quarter is the quintessential nighttime activity in Hanoi. You haven’t truly experienced the city until you’ve spent a few hours soaking up the atmosphere and perhaps downing a few drinks at Vietnam’s most famous Beer Hoi (Fresh Beer) site. Street vendors sell steamed peanuts, beef jerky, and other unusual delicacies, and several business houses have plastic seats spilling out into the streets. Beers can be had for as cheap as VND10,000 (less than US$1).
The beer is not strong in comparison to European standards, However, drinking beer in Bia Hoi Junction provides an excellent overall experience. Open during the day and late at night.
- Opening Hours: 11:00-Late
- Address: Ta Hien & Pho Luong Ngoc Quyen, Old Quarter, Hanoi
3. Hanoi Press Club
Hanoi Press Club is an elite pub that provides exceptional service and a classy atmosphere both within their gentleman’s club-style bar and outside on the big third-floor terrace. A well-stocked bar serves delicious wines and cocktails, as well as delectable foods.
Live music is available from Thursday to Sunday, and some drinks are buy-one-get-one-free on Thursdays.
- Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 – 15:00 & 17:00 – Late
- Address: 59A Ly Thai To Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Tel: +84 24 3 934 0888
4. Legend Beer
Surrounded by Hoan Kiem Lake and downtown Hanoi, Legend Beer is a third-floor tavern with sweeping terrace views. There’s nothing better in Hanoi than to sip on a refreshing drink and take in the city’s residents’ nighttime exploits. Because the terrace is low to the ground, you can feel both relaxed and a part of the vibrant activity of the streets below. Legend Beer makes its beverages, including wheat beer, lager, and a dark stout, all of which are available in different sizes.
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 – Late
- Address: 01-03-05 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hanoi Tel: +84 24 3 936 0345
Visit Ancient Houses and Heritage Sites
If these above activities are not enough for you, let’s explore more about what to do in Hanoi Old Quarter.
1. Bach Ma Temple
For more than a thousand years, Hanoi has served as Vietnam’s capital. Many fights have taken place here since the 11th century, demonstrating the Vietnamese people’s endurance in the face of invasions. To reinforce our efforts and boost people’s morale, people think that numerous supernatural forces are battling with them. And one of the most well-known of them is venerated at Bach Ma Temple. Long Do, a dragon-shaped god, was thought to have helped unite Dai Viet (Vietnam’s name in the 10th century).
Afterwards, when Hanoi was selected as the capital, God helped King Ly construct the citadel wall by sending a white horse. Furthermore, the Bach Ma Temple is one of Hanoi’s four most prominent spiritual strongholds. Bach Ma temple is a must-do thing when you visit in Hanoi Old Quarter due to its unique architectural elements, convenient location, and fascinating spiritual stories.
2. Thang Long Imperial
This complex, nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, is a historian’s dream. The palace was built throughout the Dai La (7th to 9th centuries), Dinh Dynasty, Anterior Le Dynasty (10th century), Ly Dynasty (1009-1225), Tran Dynasty (1226-1400), Early Le Dynasty (1428-1527), Restored Le Dynasty (1593-1789), and Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) periods. During the French occupation, various structures were destroyed. Others remained, including the stairs to the Kinh Thien and Princess’ Pagodas (Hau Lau), the Doan Mon (South) gate, the Bac Mon (North) gate, and the flag tower. Later excavations revealed the old foundations of the Thang Long Imperial City.
Nowadays, tourists can spend the day and night at the Standing Monuments and Archaeological Sites. Because the site is quite big, so just take your time, rest on the grass, and explore the map on the official website. You can also download the app for further instructions.
4. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Between 1973 and 1975, the spectacular structure was built using materials obtained from all throughout the country. Outside, soldiers in spotless white uniforms stand guard. Visitors are fortunate to witness the changing of the guard event.
Inside, in a glass tomb, visitors can see the preserved body of President Ho Chi Minh (often known as ‘Uncle Ho’). Every year, the museum shutters so that the body can be preserved with the help of embalmers.
There are guidelines for appropriate attire and behaviour because this is a solemn experience. Photography is prohibited inside. Dress appropriately, keep the line moving, and avoid pointing or raising your voice inside the tomb. It gets crowded, so be prepared to wait outside to get in.
5. Ma May Ancient House
Ma May Ancient House allows you to experience merchant life from the 18th to 19th centuries. In the Old Quarter, the house serves as a typical home and trading area for merchants from all over the world. With its distinctive Taoist feng shui and traditional Eastern architectural elements, the Ma May ancient house is still at the top of the list of places to see in the Old Quarter.
Attend a Water Puppet Show in Hanoi Old Quarter
Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese artistic act that dates back to the early days of Red River Delta culture. It has entertained people of different ages, origins, and social statuses. It includes singing Cheo, a sort of opera from northern Vietnam, as well as acting with water puppets. Each act culminates in a magnificent scene that provides the viewer with a glimpse into the past.
Water puppetry is a basic yet engaging and calming art form with amusing twists that guarantee to entertain. Don’t worry if the entire show is in Vietnamese; for a 50.000 VND entry fee, the shows will provide audio aids with detailed descriptions of what happens during the show!
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and Lotus Water Puppet Theater are the two theatres that are near the Hanoi Old Quarter. They offer several performances sequentially from 5 pm to 10 pm, each show lasting approximately 50 minutes.
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
Address: 57B, Dinh Tien Hoang Street
Ticket price: 100.000 – 200.000VND (depends on seating position)
- Lotus Water Puppet Theater
Address: 17B, Le Thai To Street
Ticket price: 80.000 – 100.000VND
How Safe is the Hanoi Old Quarter Night for Tourists?
Besides things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter, some people may ask “How safe is the Hanoi Old Quarter for tourists?”. To answer this question, not only the old quarter, the city is generally safe to visit. However, it’s always prudent to take necessary precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night and opt for licensed taxis for transportation.
To further enhance your safety, remain vigilant and keep your belongings close. While petty theft can occur, violent crimes are less frequent in Hanoi. To further mitigate risks, store valuables like extra cash, credit cards, and passports in your hotel and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
Best Street Food to Try in Hanoi Old Quarter
When it comes to things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter, especially what to try, you can find delicious street cuisine. Here are five of the top restaurants in the neighbourhood, each offering its own experiences and signature foods to savour:
- Cha Ca Thang Long – 6B Duong Thanh Street: Savor the renowned Cha Ca, a Hanoi specialty consisting of grilled fish marinated in turmeric and served over vermicelli noodles accompanied by a blend of fresh herbs and peanuts.
- Bun Cha Dac Kim – 1 Hang Manh Street: Enjoy the traditional flavour of Bun Cha with grilled pig patties, delicious pork belly, vermicelli noodles, and a side of fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
- Pho Gia Truyen – 49 Bat Dan Street: Enjoy the classic Vietnamese cuisine, Pho, at its finest. This small but beloved cafe serves warm bowls of thick broth, delicate beef pieces, and fragrant herbs, providing a very pleasant culinary experience.
- Quan An Ngon – 18 Phan Boi Chau Street: offers a gourmet experience via Vietnam’s unique cuisine. Their menu offers a variety of dishes, including Vietnamese staples like as Pho, Banh Mi, and fresh spring rolls combined with authentic spices.
- Bun Bo Nam Bo – 67 Hang Dieu Street: Savor the exquisite tastes of Bun Bo Nam Bo, a delectable beef noodle dish with the right combination of delicate beef, fresh veggies, herbs, and a zesty sauce.
By arranging for reservations for lodging, dining, and transportation, Lily’s Travel makes sure your trip is as comfortable as possible. Contact us today to fill up the list of Hanoi Old Quarter what to do and learn more about other exciting tours that will pique your interest.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is more than just a tourist destination; it’s like Hanoi’s pulse. You will discover what makes the city tick through its tales, amazing people, and exciting atmosphere. Lace-up your shoes, pack your camera, and let’s explore things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter with Lily’s Travel!
Read more: Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market: A Hidden Gem for Travelers
