Best Things to Do in Hanoi Old Quarter (Updated 2025 Guide)

Regarded as the heart of Hanoi, the Old Quarter is the liveliest and most exciting place to visit in Hanoi city, where there are so many amazing things to offer you. From French colonial and ancient architecture with a rich history to authentic traditional cuisine and numerous other interesting attractions.

Whether you’re into history, culture, food, or nightlife, this guide will show you the best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter in 2025.

1. Wander around the traditional craft streets

Hanoi Old Quarter is a living museum of history and culture, where every street tells its own story.

So, what makes the “36 Streets” of Hanoi Old Quarter a must-see in 2025?

The Old Quarter, also known as “36 Streets”, is famous for its narrow tube houses, traditional craft shops, rich street food scene, and lively atmosphere. The name “36 Streets” dates back to the 15th century when craftsmen from surrounding villages moved into the city, each street specializing in one craft or trade. Even today, street names still reflect these traditions — for example, Hang Bac (silver), Hang Gai (silk), Hang Dao (textiles), and Hang Ma (festival goods).

This name is also said to have a beautiful meaning, symbolizing luck and fortune, especially for traders. Furthermore, the famous literary work "Hanoi 36 Streets" by writer Thach Lam makes this name even more popular and closely associated with the image of ancient Hanoi when referring to Hanoi's Old Quarter.

2. Experience the famous Train Street cafés

If you’re looking for one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hanoi, this is it.

Where can you sip coffee just inches away from a passing train in Hanoi's Old Quarter?

The railway coffee street is about 2km long, located in 3 wards of Dien Bien (Ba Dinh district), Cua Nam, Hang Bong (Hoan Kiem district), connecting Le Duan, Tran Phu, Cua Dong, and Phung Hung streets.

This place is famous for small cafes located close to the railway tracks, creating an interesting check-in space for many tourists. Customers can enjoy coffee and witness the train passing by, a thrilling and exciting experience that is worth a try.

Safety Tip: Only sit inside official cafés along the tracks and follow local safety rules. Walking freely along the tracks is prohibited.

3. Enjoy authentic Hanoi street food

Hanoi Old Quarter is a street food paradise where you can taste the soul of Vietnamese cuisine.
What are the must-try Hanoi street food dishes in 2025, and where to find them?

Here are some local favorites:

• Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) – Pho Bat Dan, ~50,000 VND/bowl.
  

• Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles) – Bun Cha 34 Hang Than, ~50,000–70,000 VND/set.
  

• Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls) – Banh Cuon Gia Truyen 14 Hang Ga, ~40,000–50,000 VND/plate.
  

• Egg Coffee – Cafe Giang, ~40,000–50,000 VND/cup.
  

• Sweet soups (chè) – Che 4 Mua 4 Hang Can, ~20,000–30,000 VND/bowl.

4. Shopping for souvenirs

Hanoi's Old Quarter is a great place for souvenir shopping.

What’s souvenir should you buy in Hanoi's Old Quarter?

Some popular souvenirs include:

• Handmade silk scarves
  

• Silver jewelry
  

• Vietnamese conical hats (nón lá)
  

• Lacquer paintings
  

• Ceramic wares from Bat Trang

You can read HERE for more details.

5. Must-visit attractions in Hanoi Old Quarter

Beyond the lively streets, the Old Quarter is home to historical and cultural landmarks you can’t miss.

Which Hanoi Old Quarter attractions are worth visiting in 2025?

Attraction	Highlights	Ticket Price	Best For
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple	Scenic views, The Huc Bridge, Turtle Tower	~50,000 VND	History lovers, photographers
Dong Xuan Market	Hanoi’s biggest market	Free	Shoppers, foodies
O Quan Chuong Gate	The last ancient city gate	Free	History buffs, culture enthusiasts
87 Ma May Ancient House	19th-century preserved tube house	~10,000 VND	Architecture & history lovers
Hanoi Cathedral	Gothic French architecture	Free	Photographers, culture explorers
Bach Ma Temple	11th-century sacred temple	Free	Religion & history enthusiasts

6. Enjoy Hanoi’s nightlife

Did you know where to enjoy the best nightlife in Hanoi’s Old Quarter?

As night falls, the Old Quarter lights up with neon signs, music, and bustling pedestrian streets. Ta Hien Street, known as the “beer street”, is a great spot to mingle with locals and travelers. Street performances, night markets, and late-night food stalls create a completely different atmosphere from the daytime.

FAQs – Best Places to Visit in Hanoi Old Quarter

Q: What is the best time of day to explore Hanoi Old Quarter?

A: The best time to visit is in the early morning (to enjoy local life and avoid the heat) or after 6 PM, when the streets come alive with lights, food stalls, and nightlife.

Q: Is the Hanoi Old Quarter walkable?

A: Yes! The area is compact and best explored on foot. However, be prepared for busy traffic and narrow sidewalks. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Q: Is Hanoi Old Quarter suitable for families or kids?

A: Absolutely. Families can enjoy walking around Hoan Kiem Lake, visiting temples, trying kid-friendly street food, and taking cyclo rides. Just be cautious with young children in crowded areas.

Q: Are there any guided tours available for the Old Quarter?

A: Yes, many companies offer walking tours, food tours, and cyclo tours that provide insights into the history, architecture, and cuisine of the Old Quarter.

Should you have any doubts or need any further instruction, just contact our support team at:

Phone: +84969.255.515

Email: support@vietnamvisavoa.com