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Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a captivating maze of narrow alleys, French-colonial buildings, pagodas, and bustling markets.

Wondering what to see in Hanoi Old Quarter? Use this Hanoi Old Quarter guide to plan your day in this part of Vietnam’s capital city.

This area of Hanoi is historically and contemporarily a major commercial hub. In the past especially, each street specialized in a particular trade. Many people were attracted to live in this neighborhood. At one point, it was one of the most densely populated areas of Hanoi.

You might also hear this area called “36 streets.” This refers to the specialty guilds or trades that congregated on specific streets. Read on for five cool things to do and see in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam.

1. Hanoi Train Street

The “train street” refers to a narrow residential and commercial alley where train tracks pass through very closely to houses and shops (pictured above). The most famous train street is in the Old Quarter.

Trains pass through this street a couple of times a day, creating a unique and thrilling experience as residents move belongings and make way for the train and people push back against the wall. The train schedule is easy to follow. Visitors often gather to witness this event, but it’s important to maintain safety and be mindful of your surroundings.

Due to safety concerns, the local government has taken measures to limit access to certain parts of the train street. There are still some sections where cafes operate close by the train tracks. This is the best spot to go to have a treat and experience the exciting moment when the train passes.

2. Wander and Explore the Narrow Streets

One of the best things to do in the Hanoi Old Quarter is to wander. This is definitely a can’t miss neighborhood if Hanoi. Reflecting quintessential Hanoi, the Old Quarter is well known for its narrow and bustling streets. A web of electrical lines snake between homes and colorful awnings create shade and protect from the rain.

If you get hungry for a snack or are in need of a caffeine fix, stop by one of the numerous Cong Caphe (Cong Cafe) locations in the Old Quarter for a cool, atmospheric coffee shop. You’ll also find excellent Vietnamese food all over this neighborhood.

3. Dong Xuan Market

From local handicrafts to food, clothing, and souvenirs, this large market is a bustling hub where you can find almost anything. Housed in a large white building, it’s a vibrant place to experience local life and shop for goods. If you’re looking to do some old quarter Hanoi shopping, this is the perfect place to head. It is mostly an indoor market, making it a perfect spot to escape the heat or rain. Notably, it is the largest covered market in Hanoi.

Somewhat recently renovated, the market was originally built by the French in 1889. In the 1990s, a fire nearly destroyed the market.

A night market was also established at Dong Xuan Market in 2003. This is the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs or gifts.

4. St. Joseph Cathedral

Although a remnant of French occupation, this Catholic cathedral is on the west side of Hoan Kiem Lake and sits just at the edge of the Old Quarter. It was one of the first things constructed by the French and the cathedral impressively survived war. It is the oldest church in Hanoi.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is said to have been built on the site of the Bao Thien Pagoda. The pagoda was considered the largest of its kind and the center of Vietnamese Buddhism. As Catholicism spread during French occupation, the significance of the cathedral grew.

Today, around Christmas time the church and the surrounding plaza become popular gathering points. Sparkling lights are hung, and a Christmas tree goes up in front of the church.

4. Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake

Located on a small island on Hoan Kiem Lake (sometimes referred to as Sword Lake), Ngoc Son Temple is a Confucian temple reached by the bright red Huc Bridge. The name of the temple roughly translates to “Temple of the Jade Mountain.”

Built in 18^th century, Ngoc Son Temple is dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a war hero of the 13^th century. In the temple, you can find artifacts, alters, and even a preserved specimen of a giant turtle.

After exploring the island and temple, there is nice walking and biking path around the perimeter of the lake too. You can find bikes to rent around the lake.

5. Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square

This bustling, evening gathering place is popular with locals for its street vendors and casual eats. Hanoi Old quarter at night is a great thing to experience, especially at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.

The square is also at the intersection of five major streets of Hanoi, making it the perfect spot to witness the crazy traffic seamlessly propel onwards. At the square, scooters and vehicles zip by in all directions around a central fountain and you can find lots of small local shops and hawkers for a late-night meal or beer. Head up to the second or third floor at the adjacent restaurant center for a view of the intersection.

Old Quarter vs French Quarter

Both the Old Quarter and French Quarter Hanoi neighborhoods are nearby each other, however they have some different characteristics.

The Hanoi Old Quarter is more Vietnamese style with fewer influences from French colonization. Hanoi’s Old Quarter can feel a bit more crowded and chaotic with its narrow streets.

In the French Quarter the architecture and city planning are more reflective of France. You also can find more international embassies here. The French Quarter is considered one of the most luxurious neighborhoods in the city and you can find many 5-star hotels here.

Both neighborhoods are worth seeing as they reflect different time periods and influences in Vietnam.

Whether you’re just passing through Hanoi for a day, or visiting Vietnam for a week, the Old Quarter is a can’t miss stop on your travel itinerary.

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