Hanoi Old Quarter, the center of Vietnam’s capital, is probably the first thing you’ll get to explore in Vietnam. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, this district is over 1,000 years old and remains one of the most vibrant areas in the city. Despite modernization, the Old Quarter retains its old-world charm, with local vendors carrying goods on shoulder poles, traditional markets overflowing with fresh ingredients, and motorbikes weaving through the chaotic yet charming streets.

There’s no shortage of things to do here, but with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the Top 15 must-visit attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter. From historic sites and lively streets to cultural performances and delicious food, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this fascinating neighborhood.

Top 15 must-visit attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter

#1 Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s chaotic streets. According to legend, Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to a golden turtle in the lake, earning it the name “Lake of the Returned Sword.”

If you visit in the early morning, you will see locals practicing tai chi along the lake’s edge, moving gracefully as the sun rises. The air is cool, and the streets are quiet, making it the best time for a peaceful walk. During the day, you can visit Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on a small island connected by the bright red The Huc Bridge. This temple honors General Tran Hung Dao, a national hero.

At night, Hoan Kiem Lake transforms. On weekends, the streets surrounding the lake become a walking street filled with street performances, games, and local food stalls. It’s a perfect place to take a stroll, try some street food, or simply sit and watch Hanoi’s vibrant life unfold. There is no entrance fee to enjoy the lake, but if you want to visit Ngoc Son Temple, you will need to pay around 30,000 VND per person.
 

#2 Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is the largest market in Hanoi and has been a trading center since the French colonial era. Built in 1889, this multi-level market is where you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to clothes, souvenirs, and electronics.

Walking through the market, you will hear vendors calling out to customers and see stalls packed with colorful fabrics, handicrafts, and household goods. If you want a true local experience, venture into the food section, where you can try delicious Hanoi specialties like bun rieu cua (crab noodle soup) or banh cuon (steamed rice rolls).

The best time to visit is in the morning when the market is at its busiest, and you can see how locals shop for their daily needs. If you enjoy night markets, come on the weekend when the streets around Dong Xuan Market are filled with vendors selling street food, clothes, and souvenirs. The market itself does not have an entrance fee, but be prepared to spend if you find something you like.
 

#3 Hang Ma Street

Hang Ma Street is the most colorful street in the Old Quarter. It is known for selling paper decorations, lanterns, and traditional ornaments for Vietnamese celebrations. During major festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival, this street becomes a magical place, covered in red and gold decorations, lanterns, and toys.

Walking through Hang Ma Street, you will see shops selling handmade votive paper offerings used for ancestor worship, alongside modern party supplies and festival decorations. If you visit in the weeks leading up to Tet, the street is packed with families buying lucky red envelopes, decorations, and gifts. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, colorful lanterns and star-shaped toys fill the street, making it a perfect place to take photos.

The best time to visit Hang Ma Street is before a major holiday when the energy is at its peak. However, even on a regular day, it’s an interesting place to explore, especially if you want to see a different side of Hanoi’s culture. There is no entrance fee, but you might be tempted to buy some festive souvenirs.
 

#4 Ta Hien Street (Beer street)

Ta Hien Street is where Hanoi’s nightlife comes alive. Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this narrow street is packed with bars, food stalls, and small open-air restaurants. It’s known as “Beer Street” because it’s the best place to sit on a tiny plastic stool, enjoy a cold glass of bia hoi (fresh draft beer), and watch the world go by.

Ta Hien Street has been a gathering place for locals and tourists for decades. During the day, it’s relatively quiet, with a few restaurants serving local dishes. But once the sun sets, the street transforms into a lively, energetic scene filled with music, chatter, and the smell of grilled meat in the air.

You can order a glass of bia hoi for as little as 10,000 VND, making it one of the cheapest beers in the world. If you’re hungry, try some local snacks like fried spring rolls, grilled squid, or nem chua (fermented pork). Many places also have live music.

The best time to visit is in the evening, especially on weekends when the crowd is at its peak. If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and socializing with both locals and travelers, Ta Hien Street is a must-visit. There is no entrance fee, but be prepared to spend on food and drinks.
 

#5 Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple is one of the most important and oldest temples in Hanoi, dating back to the 9th century. It was originally built to honor a white horse that, according to legend, guided Emperor Ly Thai To to the best location to build the city walls of Thang Long (now Hanoi).

This small but beautiful temple sits at 76 Hang Buom Street, surrounded by busy streets. Stepping inside, you will find yourself in a peaceful courtyard filled with incense and intricate altars. The wooden carvings, red lacquered columns, and golden statues inside are beautifully preserved. You can also see a large white horse statue, representing the legendary animal that led to the temple’s creation.

The best time to visit is in the morning when the temple is quiet, allowing you to appreciate its history and sacred atmosphere. There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcomed if you want to contribute to its maintenance.
 

#6 Ma May Old House

The Old Quarter is famous for its tube houses, and Ma May Old House (87 Ma May Street) is one of the best-preserved examples. Built in the late 19th century, this traditional house gives you a rare look at how Hanoi’s merchants used to live.

As you walk through the house, you will see its unique architecture, with wooden beams, a central courtyard, and antique furniture. The house is designed to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter, reflecting the traditional lifestyle of old Hanoi. Each room is decorated with artifacts, from calligraphy paintings to old ceramic pots, showing how people lived and worked in the past.

Sometimes, cultural performances or exhibitions are held here. The entrance fee is 20,000 VND, which is a small price to pay for stepping back in time. If you’re interested in history and architecture, Ma May Old House is a must-visit in the Old Quarter.
 

#7 O Quan Chuong Gate

O Quan Chuong Gate is one of the last remaining city gates of ancient Hanoi. Built in the 18th century during the Later Le Dynasty, it once served as a defensive structure, protecting the city from invaders. Unlike the other gates that have disappeared over time, O Quan Chuong has been preserved as a historical symbol of Hanoi’s resilience.

Walking through the gate, you will notice its old brick walls, arched entrance, and a small watchtower on top. The name “O Quan Chuong” supposedly honors a military officer who died defending the city against the French in the 19th century. Today, it stands as a quiet reminder of Hanoi’s past, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of modern life.

You can visit O Quan Chuong at any time, as it is an open landmark with no entrance fee. If you are exploring the Old Quarter on foot, this historical gate is worth a short stop.
 

#8 Bun Cha Hanoi

If there’s one dish you absolutely must try in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, it’s bun cha. This flavorful meal consists of grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a bowl of sweet and tangy dipping sauce. It’s a perfect combination of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors that make it one of Hanoi’s most beloved dishes.

Bun cha has been a local favorite for generations, but it gained international fame in 2016 when former U.S. President Barack Obama enjoyed a bowl with chef Anthony Bourdain at Bun Cha Huong Lien.

You can find bun cha at many street food stalls and small restaurants throughout the Old Quarter, but some of the best places include:

• Bun Cha 34 (34 Hang Than Street) – A favorite among locals with traditional flavors.
• Bun Cha Dac Kim (1 Hang Manh Street) – One of the oldest Bun Cha stalls in Hanoi.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien (24 Le Van Huu Street) – The “Obama Bun Cha” place, always busy but worth it.

Prices usually range from 40,000 to 60,000 VND, making it an affordable and delicious meal. The best time to enjoy bun cha is at lunchtime when the grilled meat is freshly prepared.

#9 Hang Dau Water Tower

Hang Dau Water Tower is one of the most unique structures in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Built by the French in 1894, it was originally used to supply water to the city. The tower has a circular shape with thick stone walls and small windows, making it look almost like an ancient fortress rather than a water reservoir.

Although you cannot go inside, the tower is worth seeing as you walk through the Old Quarter. It stands at a busy intersection, surrounded by colonial-era buildings and local shops. While it’s not as famous as other landmarks, it adds to the charm of Hanoi.

There is no entrance fee, and the best time to see it is in the evening when it is softly lit, creating a mysterious and nostalgic atmosphere.
 

#10 Notre-Dame Cathedral

Hanoi’s Notre-Dame Cathedral, officially known as St. Joseph’s Cathedral, is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. Built in 1886 by the French, it was designed to resemble Notre-Dame de Paris, with its tall twin bell towers, large stained-glass windows, and neo-Gothic architecture. Despite being over a century old, the cathedral remains a vibrant religious and cultural landmark in the Old Quarter.

When you visit, take a moment to admire the impressive facade and step inside to see the peaceful interior, where locals still come to pray. Mass is held daily, but the best time to visit is late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the stained-glass windows.

Just outside the cathedral, you’ll find one of Hanoi’s most famous street-side traditions—lime iced tea (tra chanh). Around Nha Chung Street, young Hanoians gather at small plastic stools, sipping iced tea, eating sunflower seeds and chatting with friends. The combination of the cool, citrusy tea and the lively street scene makes this a great place to take a break. If you want to experience Hanoi’s social culture, order a glass of tra chanh and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

There is no entrance fee to visit the cathedral.

Opening times: 

• 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM on weekdays
• 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM on Sunday

Mass times:

• 5:30 AM, 6:00 PM (Saturday) – 6:15 PM on weekdays
• 5:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:00 PM on Sunday
   

#11 Colonial Monuments

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is not just about ancient temples and street markets—it also has some stunning colonial-era buildings that remind you of the city’s past under French rule. Some of the best examples are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore them in one go.

The Hanoi Opera House is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Completed in 1911, it was modeled after the Palais Garnier in Paris. Even if you don’t watch a performance, you can admire its grand architecture from the outside.

Nearby is the Hilton Hanoi Opera Hotel, which stands next to the original site of the infamous Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton.” The prison, used during the French colonial period and later during the Vietnam War, is now a museum worth visiting if you are interested in history.

Walk a little further to Trang Tien Street, a historic shopping street known for its French-style buildings and high-end stores. One of the most famous stops here is Trang Tien Ice Cream, a legendary ice cream shop loved by generations of Hanoians.

Another colonial landmark is the Hanoi Post Office, a yellow-painted building with beautiful architecture. It is still a working post office, so you can step inside to see the old-style counters and even send a postcard home.

There are no entrance fees for most of these landmarks, but the Hoa Lo Prison Museum charges a small fee of 50,000 VND.
 

#12 Water Puppet Show

If you are looking for unique things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter at night, watching a water puppet show is one of the best choices. This traditional Vietnamese art form dates back to the 11th century, when villagers performed puppet shows on flooded rice fields. Today, the performances take place in theaters, with wooden puppets controlled by hidden puppeteers behind a water stage.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, located near Hoan Kiem Lake, is the most famous venue for these performances. The show tells stories from Vietnamese folklore, with dragons, fairies, and farmers coming to life through the puppets. The live music, performed with traditional instruments, adds to the magical atmosphere.

A water puppet show is a great way to learn about Vietnamese culture in an entertaining way. The shows last about 50 minutes, and tickets range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND, depending on the seating. Since it’s a popular attraction, it’s best to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
 

#13 Cyclo ride

A cyclo ride is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter. These three-wheeled bicycle taxis were once a common mode of transportation in Vietnam before motorbikes took over the streets. Today, cyclos are mostly used for sightseeing, giving you a slow and immersive way to experience the city’s chaotic yet charming atmosphere.

The best time for a cyclo ride is in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler. As you sit back and relax, your driver will take you through the maze of narrow streets, passing by bustling markets, ancient temples, and locals with their daily lives.

Most cyclo rides start around Hoan Kiem Lake and make their way through streets like Hang Gai (famous for silk products), Hang Bac (the silver street), and Hang Dao (the old trading street). A typical tour lasts between 30 minutes to an hour, and the price is usually 150,000 to 200,000 VND per ride. It’s best to agree on a price before getting in to avoid any confusion later.
 

#14 Hanoi Street Food

One of the absolute must-dos in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is experiencing the city’s legendary street food. Hanoi is a paradise for food lovers, with small eateries and street vendors serving delicious local dishes on nearly every corner. Unlike fancy restaurants, street food stalls offer an authentic taste of Hanoi’s rich culinary culture.

Start your food tour with a bowl of pho, the world-famous Vietnamese noodle soup. A great place to try it is Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bat Dan Street), which serves a simple yet flavorful beef noodle soup that locals swear by.

Next, head to Bun Cha Dac Kim (1 Hang Manh Street) for bun cha, Hanoi’s signature dish of grilled pork served with rice noodles and fresh herbs. This was the dish that Barack Obama famously enjoyed during his visit to Hanoi.

For a quick snack, grab a banh mi, Vietnam’s take on the French baguette sandwich. One of the best spots is Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca Street), known for its crispy bread and flavorful fillings.

No street food tour is complete without egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a creamy and sweet coffee topped with whipped egg yolk. Café Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street) is the birthplace of this unique drink and remains the best place to try it.

Sitting on tiny plastic stools, watching the city’s energy unfold around you, and chatting with friendly vendors make this an unforgettable part of your trip. Most street food dishes cost between 30,000 to 70,000 VND, making it an affordable yet amazing culinary adventure.
 

#15 Hanoi Train Street

One of the most fascinating spots in the Old Quarter is Train Street, a narrow residential alley where a working railway track runs right through. At certain times of the day, a train passes just inches away from homes, cafés, and tourists, creating an exciting and slightly nerve-wracking experience.

The most popular section of Train Street is between Tran Phu and Dien Bien Phu Streets, where you’ll find several cafés with good views of the tracks. The train schedules change often, so check with the café owners to know when the next one is coming. Usually, trains pass in the afternoon and evening, making this a perfect stop after a day of sightseeing.

Sipping a Vietnamese coffee while waiting for the train to thunder past is a must-have experience in Hanoi. It’s thrilling, unique, and gives you a glimpse into the everyday life of people living in this unusual setting. There’s no entrance fee, but buying a drink at a café is expected, with prices ranging from 40,000 to 80,000 VND.

Conclusion

Exploring the Top 15 must-visit attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter is the best way to experience the true essence of Hanoi. To fully enjoy the experience, consider booking a guided tour with Vietnam Original Travel. A local expert can help you uncover hidden gems, share fascinating stories, and take you to the best food spots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Hanoi, a tour will make your trip even more memorable. Get ready to explore, eat, and immerse yourself in the energy of the Hanoi Old Quarter!

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