What’s new for 2027
- Since 1 July 2025 Vietnam has a two-tier local government: district-level units were abolished and many wards were merged and renamed. Addresses below keep the street and former district names (e.g. Hoan Kiem District); your map app may show the new ward name.
- Entrance fees and show times change often, so we no longer list old ticket prices for Hoa Lo Prison or the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Check at the ticket office, or let your Metta Voyage guide arrange tickets on a private Hanoi tour.
1. History of Hanoi Old Quarter
The Old Quarter has a history that dates back over a thousand years. It was originally a bustling trading area where merchants and artisans from various villages around the Red River Delta gathered to sell their goods. Over time, each street specialized in a specific trade, which is why the area is often referred to as the “36 Streets” (or “36 Phố phường”). Some of these streets still retain their traditional names, such as Hang Bac (Silver Street), Hang Gai (Silk Street), and Hang Ma (Paper Street).
For more: Discover Exciting Culture In The 36 Streets Hanoi In The Old Quarter
During the French colonial period (late 19th to mid-20th century), the French introduced Western-style urban planning and architecture, resulting in the construction of wider streets and European-style buildings. However, the traditional Vietnamese shophouses and narrow, winding lanes remained largely intact, preserving the area’s unique character and charm.
The Old Quarter has witnessed several wars and conflicts throughout its history, including the French colonization, the Japanese occupation during World War II, and the Vietnam War. Many of the buildings in the area suffered damage during these periods, but most were rebuilt or restored in the post-war years.
Nowadays, the Old Quarter has undergone further development and modernization with new businesses, restaurants, and hotels catering to locals and tourists. Despite these changes, the area has retained its historic character and cultural heritage, making it one of the most popular and beloved districts.
Other: Discover The Top 10 Most Famous Hostels In Hanoi
2. Architecture
The architecture of the Old Quarter is a blend of Vietnamese and French colonial styles. Narrow, winding streets are lined with old shophouses. The buildings are often adorned with intricate wooden carvings and tile roofs, reflecting the traditional Vietnamese architectural style.
3. Attractions
The Old Quarter is a popular tourist destination with numerous attractions, including:
Hoa Lo Prison
Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a historic site located in the center of Hanoi, Vietnam. The prison has a complex and controversial history, serving as a symbol of both colonial oppression and Vietnamese resistance.
- Address: No. 1 Hoa Lo, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Opening hours: 8am – 5pm
- Entrance ticket: check the current fee at the ticket office before you go (prices change).
Some special subjects will receive free or reduced ticket prices, specifically as follows:
Cases where tickets are free:
- Children under 15 years old.
- Subjects with extremely severe disabilities.
- Member of: Veterans Association, Prison Liaison Committee throughout the country and Resistance Liaison Committee.
- Subjects who contributed to the revolution.
Cases with 50% discount on ticket prices:
- Pupils and students (Show your student card when buying tickets).
- Subjects with severe disabilities.
- People with Vietnamese nationality, aged 60 or older.
- Subjects classified as social policies.
In addition, Hoa Lo also offers an audio guide with headphones for a small extra fee.
Today, the remaining section of Hoa Lo Prison serves as a museum dedicated to the history of the prison and its role in both the struggle for Vietnamese independence and the Vietnam War. The museum exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and displays that provide a comprehensive overview of the prison’s history, the conditions faced by prisoners, and the stories of both Vietnamese revolutionaries and American POWs.
Đong Xuan Market:
Đong Xuan Market is not only a shopping destination but also a cultural and historical landmark that offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of Hanoi. The market is located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, near the famous Long Bien Bridge. The market is an imposing three-story structure with a large central atrium and numerous stalls and shops. The architecture combines French colonial and traditional Vietnamese styles.
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Đong Xuan Market is a vibrant and bustling place where you can find a wide variety of goods, including:
- Fresh Produce: Fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood.
- Clothing and Textiles: Traditional Vietnamese ao dai, fabrics, and ready-to-wear clothing.
- Household Items: Kitchenware, electronics, and home décor.
- Souvenirs and Handicrafts: Local handicrafts, lacquerware, ceramics, and embroidered goods.
- Street Food and Snacks: Numerous food stalls and eateries offering authentic Vietnamese dishes and snacks.
Bach Ma Temple:
Bach Ma Temple is dedicated to the White Horse God, a protective deity that is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to worshippers. The temple is a popular place of worship for locals, who come to pray for health, happiness, and success in their endeavors. The temple is adorned with colorful decorations and offerings during festivals and special occasions, such as the Lunar New Year (Tet) and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
- Address: 76 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening hours: Morning 8:00 am – 11:00 am; Afternoon 2:00 pm-8:00 pm
- Entrance ticket: Free
The architecture of Bach Ma Temple reflects a blend of Vietnamese and Chinese design influences. The temple complex includes a main worship hall, several auxiliary buildings, and a peaceful courtyard. The structures are adorned with intricate carvings, colorful ceramics, and ornate altars dedicated to various deities, including the white horse that is said to have led King Ly Thai To to the site of Thang Long.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre:
Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that dates back over a thousand years, originating in the Red River Delta region. The art form was historically performed in village ponds and rice paddies during the rice harvest season as a form of entertainment for local communities.
Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
The theatre sells several seat categories and runs several shows a day, from the afternoon into the evening (with extra shows at weekends). Check current ticket prices and show times at the box office and book ahead in high season.
A water puppetry performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre typically depicts traditional Vietnamese folktales, legends, and daily life scenes. The puppets are made of wood and are intricately carved and painted to represent characters such as dragons, fairies, farmers, and animals. The puppeteers stand behind a bamboo screen in waist-deep water and manipulate the puppets using long bamboo rods and string mechanisms hidden beneath the water’s surface. The performance is accompanied by live traditional Vietnamese music played on traditional instruments such as the đàn bầu (monochord), đàn nguyệt (two-stringed lute), and bamboo flutes.
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Lake of the Returned Sword, is a picturesque and iconic landmark located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The lake is a popular recreational area for locals and tourists, offering a peaceful oasis amid the bustling city. The famous red Huc Bridge (Rising Sun Bridge) connects the lake’s shore to Jade Island, where the Ngoc Son Temple is located.
By night falls, Hoan Kiem Lake comes alive with a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The area around the lake is illuminated with colorful lights, and street performers, musicians, and food vendors set up stalls along the lakeshore, creating a lively and entertaining environment for both locals and tourists.
4. Shopping and Dining
The Old Quarter is also a shopper’s paradise, with numerous boutiques, art galleries, and craft shops selling a variety of goods, including silk products, lacquerware, and traditional handicrafts. The area is also known for its bustling street food scene, with countless street stalls and local eateries offering authentic Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices.
Eating in Hanoi Old Quarter is a culinary delight with several authentic Vietnamese dishes. Must-try foods include “Pho”, a flavorful noodle soup; bun cha, grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles; “Banh Mi”, a delicious Vietnamese sandwich; “Cha ca la vong”, turmeric-marinated grilled fish; and “Egg coffee”, a unique and creamy beverage.
Popular spots for these dishes in the Old Quarter include Pho Gia Truyen for pho, Bun Cha Ta for bun cha, Banh Mi 25 for banh mi, Cha Ca La Vong for cha ca la vong, and Cafe Giảng for egg coffee. Eating in the Old Quarter offers a delicious and diverse gastronomic experience that should not be missed when visiting Hanoi.
5. Conclusion
Visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter is like stepping back in time, with its historic architecture, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hanoi and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s fascinating history and culture. Contact Metta Voyage for more information. We always welcome tourists to book tours and be ready to explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter and other cities in Vietnam.
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6. Contact us
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