Lost in Hanoi: A Journey Through Hanoi's Old Quarter
- tasha19923
- Mar 5
- 10 min read
Experience the sights, flavours, and soul of Hanoi old quarter — where tradition meets modern adventure.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavours that captivates every traveler. In this blog, we’ll dive into the best experiences this historic district has to offer—from savoring steaming bowls of pho and crispy banh mi on the bustling streets to exploring iconic landmarks like Ngọc Sơn Temple, perched on the tranquil waters of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. You’ll wander through the lively night markets brimming with clothes and souvenirs, marvel at the striking St. Joseph’s Cathedral with its French colonial charm, and experience the thrill of Train Street, where trains brush past cafés just inches away from curious visitors. Whether you're here for the culture, the food, or the unique energy of Hanoi, this guide will help you navigate the Old Quarter like a pro.
Where to Stay:
Vietnam is the perfect country for the budget travellers as everything is so cheap! Even if you splurge on nice accommodation you're still spending a small fraction of the price as you would in other places like Japan or anywhere in Europe.
You can fine decent accommodation on sites like Airbnb and booking.com which is the main platforms I use.
For the 1st night in Hanoi I stayed at a hotel which was a bit of a splurge as I wanted to have a space with all the amenities after a long flight before the trip to Ha Long bay the next day (which I will update you on in a seperate blog) I was staying with 2 friends and for the night it was $40 AUD each.
San Palace Hotel and Spa
What really sold me on the place was the rooftop bar and pool which has an amazing view and the staff are so friendly and helpful and you can also include to add the buffet breakfast if you would like.
Air Bnb Stay
For the Rest of our stay in Hanoi we stayed at an Airbnb. This Airbnb had everything we needed and included a washing machine which was very helpful and was well air conditioned. The space is setup as what you would normally find in an everyday home in the old quarter with the shower being its own wet room outside on the balcony as well as an outdoor kitchen and a toilet seperate to the airbnb its self (don't worry you wont have to share any of these things with the residents or other travellers)
This apartment was also very close to many amaing cafes and resturants and not far from alot of Hanoi's Old Quarter attractions. The host is also very lovely and helpful and quick at replying at any of your inquiries and messages.
Depending on where and how long you would like to stay, Hanoi has multiple amazing and affordable options from hotels to Airbnbs.
What to do:
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a vibrant and historic heart of Vietnam’s capital, where ancient traditions meet modern energy. Whether you're sipping Vietnamese coffee, strolling around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, or exploring cultural landmarks, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Start Your Day with a Vietnamese Coffee
Begin your adventure in one of Hanoi’s many charming cafés. Vietnamese coffee is a must-try, whether you prefer it strong and black, sweetened with condensed milk, or as the famous egg coffee—a rich and creamy delight. Popular spots like Café Giảng or Đinh Café offer a cozy atmosphere and a taste of local culture, or the Note Cafe and leave a note for future visitors to see.
A Scenic Walk Around Hoàn Kiếm Lake & Ngọc Sơn Temple
After your caffeine fix, take a leisurely walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, the picturesque heart of Hanoi. The lake is a popular spot for locals practicing tai chi in the morning and an excellent place for people-watching. Cross the iconic red bridge to visit Ngọc Sơn Temple, a peaceful retreat dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, a revered Vietnamese military leader.
Discover Art Street
For those who love creativity, a visit to Hanoi’s Phùng Hưng Street, also known as Art Street, is a must. This open-air gallery features murals depicting Hanoi’s rich history and daily life, making it a perfect spot for photos and an artistic escape from the busy streets.
Marvel at St. Joseph’s Cathedral
One of the most striking landmarks in Hanoi, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, is a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Reminiscent of Notre-Dame de Paris, this 19th-century church is a serene place to explore, with its towering Gothic façade and beautiful stained-glass windows. The surrounding area is also home to trendy cafés and bakeries, perfect for a quick break.
Shop for Unique Finds at Second-Hand Clothes Markets
If you're a fan of vintage fashion and thrift shopping, Hanoi has some fantastic second-hand clothing markets. The Chợ Đông Tác Market and small thrift stores scattered around the Old Quarter offer unique and affordable finds, from designer pieces to retro streetwear. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be shy about negotiating for the best deal.
Evening Delights: Street Food & Night Markets
End your day by diving into Hanoi’s legendary street food scene. Try classics like pho (beef or chicken noodle soup), bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), and bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich). The bustling night markets in the Old Quarter are also a great place to explore, offering everything from handmade crafts to local delicacies.
Experience the Buzz of Beer Street
By evening, Ta Hien Street—often referred to as Beer Street—comes to life. This narrow alley is packed with locals and travelers sitting on tiny plastic stools, enjoying cheap draft beer (bia hơi) and street food. The energy is infectious, making it an excellent spot to socialise, people-watch, and experience Hanoi’s nightlife.
Final Thoughts
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a blend of history, culture, and vibrant street life. Whether you're here for a short visit or an extended stay, these highlights will help you experience the city like a local. Take your time to soak in the charm, interact with friendly locals, and savour the unique flavours of Vietnam’s capital.
Here is a list of other things you can do on Hanoi, I didn't get the chance to see or do these thing, but always good to add options or even plan a future visit:
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – Visit the final resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader.
Temple of Literature – A stunning historical site and Vietnam’s first university.
Vietnamese Women’s Museum – A fascinating look into the role of women in Vietnamese history and culture.
Hoa Lo Prison (Hanoi Hilton) – A sobering yet important historical site.
National Museum of Vietnamese History – Learn about Vietnam’s rich past.
West Lake (Tây Hồ) – The largest lake in Hanoi, perfect for a relaxing walk or boat ride.
Tran Quoc Pagoda – A beautiful Buddhist temple on an island in West Lake.
Long Bien Bridge – A historic bridge with amazing city views.
Lotte Observation Deck – Get panoramic views of Hanoi from one of the city’s tallest buildings.
Water Puppet Show – Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance at Thang Long Theatre.
Motorbike Tour – Ride through Hanoi’s chaotic streets like a local.
Cooking Class – Learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dishes.
What to Eat:
Hanoi is a street food paradise with a mix of flavours, textures, and cooking styles that define Vietnamese cuisine. Here’s a detailed list of must-try foods in Hanoi, along with where to find them:
1. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
What it is: A crispy French baguette filled with pate, meats (grilled pork, chicken, or egg), pickled veggies, and sauces.
Where to try:
Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca Street) – One of the best in Hanoi, with different meat and vegetarian options.
Banh Mi Pate Lan Ong (18 Cha Ca Street) – Specialises in a traditional pate-based banh mi.
2. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
What it is: Hanoi’s signature dish—flat rice noodles in a flavourful beef or chicken broth, topped with fresh herbs and lime.
Where to try:
Pho Gia Truyen (49 Bat Dan Street) – Famous for its rich broth and tender beef.
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su (10 Ly Quoc Su Street) – A favorite among locals for both chicken and beef pho.
3. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
What it is: Grilled pork belly and meatballs served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a sweet-savory dipping sauce.
Where to try:
Bun Cha Huong Lien (24 Le Van Huu Street) – Famous because Anthony Bourdain and Obama ate here! Get the Obama special, it will not dissapoint.
Bun Cha Dac Kim (1 Hang Manh Street) – One of the most well-known spots for authentic bun cha.
4. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Savory Pancake)
What it is: Crispy rice flour pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh greens and a dipping sauce.
Where to try:
Banh Xeo Zon (25 Lo Su Street) – A great place for crispy banh xeo.
Banh Xeo Sau Phuoc (74 Hang Bac Street) – Authentic, crispy pancakes served with fresh herbs.
5. Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
What it is: Fresh rice paper rolls stuffed with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, served with peanut dipping sauce.
Where to try:
Nem Cuon Roll Factory (33 Dao Duy Tu Street) – Specializes in different types of fresh spring rolls.
Nha Hang Ngon (26 Tran Hung Dao Street) – A great sit-down spot for traditional Vietnamese dishes..
6. Cao Lầu (Hoi An-style Noodles)
What it is: A dish originating from Hoi An, featuring chewy noodles, pork, fresh greens, and a rich broth.
Where to try:
Little Hoi An Restaurant (19 Hang Manh Street) – Serves authentic Hoi An cuisine, including cao lầu.
Madame Hien (15 Chan Cam Street) – A higher-end restaurant serving regional Vietnamese dishes.
7. Xôi Xéo (Sticky Rice with Mung Bean & Fried Shallots)
What it is: Sticky rice topped with mung bean paste, fried shallots, and sometimes chicken or pork.
Where to try:
Xoi Yen (35B Nguyen Huu Huan Street) – Famous for its flavorful sticky rice varieties.
Xoi May (45 Ly Thuong Kiet Street) – Another great local spot for xôi xéo.
8. Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
What it is: Strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a creamy, sweet egg yolk foam.
Where to try:
Café Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street) – The birthplace of egg coffee!
The Note Coffee (64 Phố Lương Văn Can Street) – A charming café that is renowned for its unique decor, with walls, furniture, and even ceilings adorned with colourful sticky notes left by visitors from around the world.
9. Bánh Cuốn (Steamed Rice Rolls)
What it is: Thin, steamed rice rolls filled with pork and mushrooms, served with fish sauce and herbs.
Where to try:
Banh Cuon Ba Hanh (16B Tho Xuong Street) – Famous for delicate, flavorful banh cuon.
Banh Cuon Gia Truyen (14 Hang Ga Street) – A top-rated spot for authentic banh cuon.
Day Trips from Hanoi
Hanoi is a fantastic base for several incredible day trips. Here are some of the best ones, including Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh, along with what to see and do in each place.
1. Ha Long Bay – Iconic Limestone Karsts & Cruises
Travel Time: ~2.5-3 hours by car/bus
Best For: Scenic boat cruises, caves, kayaking, island hopping
Highlights:
Cruising the Bay: Take a day cruise to explore the stunning limestone islands rising from the emerald waters.
Ti Top Island: Climb to the top for panoramic views or relax on the beach.
Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave): One of the largest and most impressive caves in the bay.
Luon Cave: A hidden lagoon accessible by kayak or bamboo boat.
Floating Villages: Visit traditional fishing villages like Cua Van.
How to Get There:
Book a guided Ha Long Bay day cruise with hotel pickup (many companies offer packages from Hanoi).
Private car or shuttle bus (~3 hours each way).
2. Perfume Pagoda – A Sacred Mountain Pilgrimage
Travel Time: ~1.5-2 hours by car
Best For: Spiritual experiences, scenic boat rides, mountain hiking
Highlights:
Boat Trip on the Yen River: A peaceful ride through karst mountains to the base of the pagoda.
Huong Tich Cave: A mystical cave temple considered the heart of the pilgrimage.
Thien Tru Pagoda: A beautiful Buddhist temple in a serene setting.
Cable Car Ride: If you prefer not to hike, take a cable car up the mountain for great views.
How to Get There:
Guided day tour (easiest option).
Public bus to My Duc, then boat ride to the pagoda.
Private car or motorbike rental.
3. Ba Vi National Park – Nature & Mountain Retreat
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by car/motorbike
Best For: Hiking, waterfalls, panoramic mountain views
Highlights:
Ba Vi Peak: Hike up for stunning views over the countryside.
French Ruins: Explore old French colonial ruins hidden in the jungle.
Ngoc Hoa Monastery: A peaceful Buddhist site in the mountains.
Waterfalls & Hot Springs: Relax in natural pools and enjoy the fresh air.
How to Get There:
Motorbike (best for adventurous travelers).
Private car or guided tour.
4. Ninh Binh – "Ha Long Bay on Land"
Travel Time: ~2 hours by car/bus
Best For: Scenic landscapes, river boat rides, ancient temples, and hiking
Highlights:
Trang An Boat Tour: A breathtaking river journey through limestone caves and lush greenery (UNESCO-listed).
Tam Coc Boat Ride: Another beautiful option, with rice fields and towering karsts along the river.
Hang Múa Viewpoint (Mua Cave): Hike up 500 steps for a stunning panoramic view of the countryside.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: The largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam with giant statues and serene temples.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Explore the historic ruins of Vietnam’s first imperial capital.
How to Get There:
Guided tour (most convenient, includes transportation and activities).
Train to Ninh Binh Station, then taxi/motorbike to attractions.
Private car/motorbike rental.
5. Duong Lam Ancient Village – Traditional Rural Life
Travel Time: ~1.5 hours by car/motorbike
Best For: Vietnamese culture, history, and ancient architecture
Highlights:
Old Houses & Communal Temples: See well-preserved 300-year-old houses.
Mia Pagoda: A stunning temple with ancient Buddha statues.
Local Farm Life: Experience rural Vietnamese village life.
How to Get There:
Motorbike or private car.
Guided tours available from Hanoi.
Which One Should You Choose?
For breathtaking scenery & water activities: Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh
For spirituality & hiking: Perfume Pagoda or Ba Vi National Park
For cultural experiences: Duong Lam Ancient Village
Happy Travels!
Hanoi is a city that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left. From the mouthwatering street food—steaming bowls of phở, crispy bánh mì, and fragrant bún chả—to the iconic sights like Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Ngọc Sơn Temple, and the majestic St. Joseph’s Cathedral, every corner of the city tells a story. The warmth of the locals, always ready with a smile or a helpful suggestion, adds to the charm of exploring the bustling streets, hidden cafés, and lively night markets. And just beyond the city, breathtaking day trips to places like Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and the Perfume Pagoda offer a perfect escape into Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. Whether you're here for the history, the flavours, or the unforgettable experiences, Hanoi is a place that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and fall in love with its unique rhythm.
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