The Hanoi Old Quarter, known in Vietnamese as Khu Phố Cổ Hà Nội and affectionately as the “36 Streets” (Hà Nội – Ba mươi sáu phố phường), is the historical and commercial heart of Vietnam’s capital. Located near Hoàn Kiếm Lake, this district is a living museum, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the city’s rich history, enduring culture, and bustling daily life.
I. History and Culture: The 36 Guild Streets
A Millennium of Trade: The Old Quarter’s origins date back over 1,000 years to the time when Hanoi was established as the imperial capital, Thăng Long. It evolved from a cluster of craft villages into a vibrant commercial hub.
The Guilds and Street Names: By the century, artisans migrated from surrounding villages and formed guilds, each specializing in a single trade. These guilds gave rise to the iconic street names, which often begin with the word “Hàng” (meaning “merchandise” or “store”).
Examples: Hàng Bạc (Silver Street) still houses jewelers and silversmiths; Hàng Gai (Silk Street) is famous for fine silks and tailoring; and Hàng Mã (Paper Offerings Street) sells ritualistic paper goods.
Architecture: The district is famous for its unique “tube houses,” narrow but long dwellings designed to minimize street-front tax while maximizing depth. This architecture, blended with Chinese shophouses and French colonial influences (like wrought-iron balconies), creates a fascinating historical tapestry.
II. Visitor Experience and Top Activities
The best way to explore the Old Quarter is by foot, taking time to absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of the city.
| Activity | Description | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food Tour | The Old Quarter is a culinary paradise. Sample local specialties like Phở (noodle soup), Bún Chả (grilled pork with noodles), and Cà Phê Trứng (Egg Coffee). | Look for crowded street stalls with tiny plastic stools—these are often the best and most authentic. |
| Explore the Pedestrian Zone | Streets around Hoàn Kiếm Lake are closed to traffic every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening (from 7:00 PM to midnight) for the Hanoi Walking Street festival. | Visit the weekend Night Market that runs along Hàng Đào and Đồng Xuân streets for cheap souvenirs and street food. |
| Visit Ta Hiện (Beer Street) | This small street transforms into a lively international nightlife hub every evening, famous for its inexpensive local draught beer, Bia Hơi. | Visit in the early evening to grab a low plastic stool before the crowds arrive. |
| Cultural Sites | See the Bạch Mã Temple (one of the four sacred temples of old Thăng Long) or the Mã Mây Ancient House (87 Ma˜ Maˆy), a well-preserved 19th-century traditional house. | The Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre, located nearby, is a must-see cultural performance. |
| Transportation | For a unique experience, hire a Cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) for a leisurely tour, or use Grab bikes for quick, cheap trips. | Negotiate the price with the cyclo driver before you start your journey. |
III. Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Central Hanoi, bordered by Hoàn Kiếm Lake to the south. |
| Operating Hours | The Old Quarter is a neighborhood, open 24 hours. Individual shops and markets vary: |
| - Shops/Markets: Generally 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. | |
| - Restaurants/Cafes: Often open late, until 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM. | |
| - Nightlife (Tạ Hiện): Active until midnight or later. | |
| Entrance Fee | Free. There is no general admission fee to walk through the streets. |
| Note: Specific attractions within the Old Quarter, like the Mã Mây Ancient House (∼10,000 VND) or the Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre (∼100,000 VND - 200,000 VND), have separate entrance fees. | |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning for a quiet view of local life, or late afternoon/evening for the markets and nightlife. |
| Currency | Vietnamese Đồng (VND). Cash is essential for street vendors and small shops. |
| Safety | Be mindful of traffic; motorbikes are everywhere. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially on weekends. |
