Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the central area of Hanoi and a famous tourist destination. The ancient region covers 36 streets with 100 ha, which sell specific goods on each one, creating rich colors for this region.

The map of the ancient town

The Old Quarter in Hanoi starts from the West and North of Hoan Kiem Lake.

This old section limits:

  • The north is Hang Dau Street.
  • The west is Phung Hung Street.
  • The south is the streets: Hang Bong, Hang Gai, Cau Go, and Hang Thung.
  • The east is Tran Quang Khai and Tran Nhat Duat Streets.

The most famous attractions in the old town

Each street in Hanoi Old Town is a well-known destination; however, Hang Ma and Ta Hien Streets are more popular.

Hang Ma Street

Hang Ma Street is famous because it is the most colorful street in Hanoi. The local inhabitants sell products for worshipping and decoration, which are so impressive.

Especially on typical occasions such as Tet holidays or full moon festivals, the street becomes brighter with thousands of lanterns, toys, balloons, and decorative items. And, more people come here to take pictures and buy these goods.

Ta Hien Street

Ta Hien Street is a small distance in the heart of the old Hanoi. It is quiet during the daytime but crowded with locals and tourists at night because it is known as a beer street in Hanoi.

Besides, you can visit many famous sites in the Old Quarter that tourists can visit:

Old House 87 Ma May

Old House at 87 Ma May is a traditional house that recreates the living space with typical features of Hanoi people.

Old Gate

O Quan Chuong (Old Gate) is one of the five remaining gates of the ancient Thang Long Citadel. The gate is the classic architecture of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market is one of the biggest markets in Hanoi, where you can see the bustling trading activities of the local people.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple in Returned Sword Lake is also a historical site for you to visit when walking in the old section.

hang ma street hanoi
hanoi street vietnam

Eating in the Old Quarter

The cuisine is one of the typical highlights in Hanoi Old Quarter, which attracts most of the tourists and foodies. Hundreds of local foods can make you more hungry and want to come back here again.

Here are some of the best delicacies in the old town with the famous dining addresses.

  • The cuisine at Dong Xuan Market with many kinds of local food,
  • Pho Bat Dan (Bat Dan noodle soup) at 49 Bat Dan Street,
  • Bun thang (Grilled pork vermicelli) at 32 Cau Go Street,
  • La Vong grilled fish cake with vermicelli at 14 Cha Ca Street,
  • Bun Cha (Meat Noodle) at 43 Hang Buom Steet.

If you want to find out more about the culinary, please check the list of local foods in Hanoi, which will guide you in more detail.

hanoi food to taste

Hanoi Old Quarter is a typical attraction that can enrich your trips to Vietnam. The best thing to do in this old town is to plan a walking tour, which helps you explore the daily life of the locals, and it is easy to stop and taste famous egg coffee.

Will you come to this place when you travel to Hanoi?

About the author

The editorial staff of Vietnamdrive is a team of travel experts managed by Mr. Thom who has worked in tourism for 14 years. Trusted by thousands of tourists from all over the world.