Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the vibrant heart of the Vietnamese capital, with a history that stretches back over a thousand years. Known for its maze-like streets, colonial-era architecture, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage, this neighborhood offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. While the area is famous for its traditional street food, coffee culture, and historical landmarks, there are plenty of offbeat and unusual experiences that will make your trip to Hanoi truly unforgettable. Here’s a curated list of some of the most interesting and unconventional things you can do in the Old Quarter.

Hanoi Train Street

One of the most unusual sights in Hanoi is the famous Train Street, a narrow alley where trains pass mere inches from people's homes, shops, and cafes. The tracks run right through the heart of the Old Quarter, and locals have adapted to this daily occurrence, going about their lives with a casual attitude toward the trains. The best time to witness the spectacle is when a train is coming through—the sound of the engine and the rush of wind as it speeds past is a thrilling experience. Visitors can stand on the sidewalk or even enjoy a coffee in one of the cafes that line the tracks, but always stay alert as the trains zoom by.

Water Puppet Show

A uniquely Vietnamese tradition, the Water Puppet Show is a must-see when in Hanoi. This art form originated in the Red River Delta and dates back to the 11th century. The performances take place in a shallow pool of water, with puppets controlled by puppeteers hidden behind a screen. The shows tell stories of rural life, myths, and legends, often accompanied by live music played on traditional Vietnamese instruments. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre near Hoan Kiem Lake is a popular venue to experience this fascinating and entertaining cultural performance.

Cyclo Ride (Rickshaw)

One of the most charming ways to explore the winding streets of the Old Quarter is by taking a Cyclo ride. These traditional pedal-powered rickshaws are an iconic part of Hanoi’s history and offer a leisurely way to take in the sights. As the driver navigates through the chaotic traffic and narrow lanes, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the bustling energy of the Old Quarter. It's also a great way to explore parts of the city that may be hard to access on foot.

Egg Coffee at Café Giang

Hanoi is famous for its coffee culture, and one of the most unique beverages you can try here is Egg Coffee. This drink originated in the 1940s at Café Giang, a family-run establishment in the Old Quarter. It’s made by whipping egg yolks with condensed milk and sugar, then mixing it into hot coffee, creating a rich, creamy drink that is both sweet and slightly savory. It may sound unusual, but it’s a must-try for coffee lovers looking for something different.

Bia Hoi Ta Hien

For an authentic taste of Hanoi’s beer culture, head to Bia Hoi Ta Hien. Known as “the Beer Corner,” this lively street in the Old Quarter is lined with tiny open-air bars where locals and tourists alike gather to drink freshly brewed draft beer (bia hoi) at incredibly low prices. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with people spilling out into the street, chatting and enjoying the lively scene. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the evening, sip on a cold beer, and observe the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s street life.

B52 Wreckage

For history buffs, a visit to the B52 Wreckage in Hanoi is an unusual and thought-provoking experience. This site, located in the middle of the Bạch Mai neighborhood, features the remains of an American B-52 bomber that was shot down during the 1972 “Christmas Bombing” of Hanoi. The wreckage has been preserved as a stark reminder of the war and is an interesting historical site to visit.

Calligraphy in Hanoi

Hanoi is known for its rich artistic heritage, and one of the most unique art forms you can explore in the Old Quarter is Vietnamese Calligraphy. You’ll find several street artists around Hoan Kiem Lake and in the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter creating stunning pieces of art with traditional ink and brush. Some of the characters may have deep meanings related to Vietnamese culture and philosophy, while others simply capture the beauty of the written word. You can even commission a personalized calligraphy piece as a souvenir.

Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton)

Known as the Hanoi Hilton by American prisoners of war, Hoa Lo Prison is a sobering historical site that offers an insight into Vietnam’s past during the French colonial period and the Vietnam War. The prison was originally built by the French to incarcerate Vietnamese political prisoners and later used by the North Vietnamese to hold American POWs. The museum showcases exhibits on the prison's history, including relics, photos, and personal stories, giving visitors a glimpse into the harsh conditions that prisoners endured.

Hanoi Zoological Museum

For something a little off the beaten path, consider visiting the Hanoi Zoological Museum, which is a quirky and often overlooked spot in the city. This museum features a wide range of animal specimens, both local and international, including mounted animals, birds, and sea creatures. It’s an interesting place to explore for those with an interest in natural history and offers a more unusual museum experience compared to the typical historical exhibits in the Old Quarter.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant landmark in Hanoi, serving as the final resting place of the nation’s beloved leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mausoleum is an imposing structure, with a solemn atmosphere as visitors pay their respects. The experience is an important part of understanding Vietnam’s modern history and political landscape. While it may not be considered unusual in a traditional sense, visiting the mausoleum is an essential activity for any visitor interested in the country's rich history.

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Vietnam’s street food is legendary, and Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a paradise for food lovers. If you want to experience the full range of local flavors, consider taking a street food tour. You’ll get the chance to sample delicious dishes like pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), cha ca (grilled fish), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and much more. Street food tours are a fun and immersive way to taste the best of Hanoi’s culinary delights while learning about the history and culture behind each dish.

Hanoi Cooking Class

For those who want to take their culinary adventures a step further, a Hanoi Cooking Class is an excellent way to dive deeper into Vietnamese cuisine. These classes are typically held at local cooking schools or even in private homes, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes using fresh ingredients. It’s a hands-on experience where you can not only improve your cooking skills but also gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Hanoi Moto Minsk Tour

A fun and unusual way to see Hanoi is by taking a Minsk motorcycle tour. The Minsk is an iconic Soviet-era motorbike, and many tour companies in Hanoi offer rides on these vintage motorcycles. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide, who will take you through the city’s streets, showing you both the popular sights and hidden gems of Hanoi. It’s an adventurous and thrilling way to explore the city.

Hanoi Jeep Tours

Another adventurous option is a Jeep tour around Hanoi. Riding in a classic military-style jeep, you’ll explore the city from a different perspective. Jeep tours typically include visits to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, but they also give you the chance to see parts of Hanoi that many visitors miss, such as the quieter neighborhoods and scenic spots along the Red River.

Bach Ma Temple and Dong Xuan Market

The Bach Ma Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi, dating back to the 11th century. It’s a peaceful, spiritual spot where you can take a moment to appreciate the ancient architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, head to the nearby Dong Xuan Market, the largest indoor market in Hanoi, where you can browse through a variety of goods, from clothing and accessories to fresh produce and souvenirs.

Long Bien Bridge

The Long Bien Bridge is another must-see historical landmark in Hanoi. Built by the French in the early 20th century, this bridge spans the Red River and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can walk or cycle across the bridge and enjoy the bustling river life below. It's especially beautiful at sunset when the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink.

Night Market in the Old Quarter

Every weekend, the Old Quarter comes alive with a vibrant Night Market that stretches along several streets. The market is packed with stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to toys and souvenirs. The night market is a perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sample street food, and pick up unique gifts.

Hoan Kiem Lake

At the heart of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene oasis amidst the city’s chaotic streets. It’s a great spot to relax, take a walk, or just sit by the water and watch the world go by. The lake is home to the Turtle Tower, a small structure in the center of the lake, and legend has it that a giant turtle once lived here. Hoan Kiem Lake is also the site of many local traditions and cultural events.

87 Ma May Old House

A visit to 87 Ma May Old House gives you a fascinating look into Hanoi's history. This traditional house, dating back to the 19th century, showcases the lifestyle of a typical Hanoi family during the French colonial period. The house is now a museum, where you can explore the architecture, furnishings, and artifacts that tell the story of life in Hanoi in years gone by.

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a place of contrasts, where the old and new coexist in a harmonious dance. From historical landmarks to quirky experiences, this vibrant area offers visitors plenty of unusual and offbeat things to do. Whether you’re sipping egg coffee, exploring ancient temples, or taking a ride on a vintage Minsk motorbike, there’s no shortage of unique ways to experience this fascinating part of Hanoi.