Fully Exploring Hanoi Old Quarter: Where to Eat, What to Do, and 36 Streets Travel Guide
Discover Hanoi Old Quarter (the 36 Old Streets) – the heart of Hanoi's thousand years of civilization! Get detailed 36 Old Streets travel tips, the ultimate guide on where to eat in the Old Quarter, and the perfect weekend Hanoi itinerary!
1. Hanoi Old Quarter – The Enduring Charm of the 36 Old Streets
The Hanoi Old Quarter is not merely a geographical area; it is a living museum of the capital's history and culture. It is famously known as the 36 Old Streets – a network of narrow streets, each historically specializing in a particular traditional trade (e.g., Silver Street, Hemp Street, Mat Street...).
Over hundreds of years, the Hanoi Old Quarter has preserved its distinctive architecture with moss-covered tiled roofs and tube houses, creating a unique, nostalgic atmosphere. This is the ideal starting point for any Hanoi itinerary for both domestic and international visitors.
2. Where to Eat in the Old Quarter? (Must-Try Foodie Highlights)
Cuisine is the soul of the Hanoi Old Quarter. Exploring the food scene here provides the best answer to the question, "Where to eat in the Old Quarter?". These simple yet refined dishes have made Hanoi's culinary reputation famous:
- Phở (Stone Bowl/Chicken): Enjoy traditional Phở at long-standing eateries on Hang Dong or Luong Van Can Street.
- Bún Chả Hang Quat/Hang Than: Fragrant charcoal-grilled pork vermicelli, famously visited by President Obama.
- Bún Thang (Vermicelli Soup): An elaborate, delicate dish deeply flavored by Hanoi, often found near the Hoan Kiem Lake area.
- Chả Cá Lã Vọng: A signature dish on Cha Ca Street, carrying the distinct flavor of the 36 Old Streets.
- Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng): Savor rich, creamy Egg Coffee at the ancient cafes on Cau Go or Nguyen Huu Huan Street.
3. The Perfect Hanoi Itinerary for a Weekend in the Old Quarter
To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this area, you should refer to this suggested weekend Hanoi itinerary for the Old Quarter:
| Time | Activity | Suggested Location |
| Moring | Historical Sightseeing | Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge (near Hoan Kiem Lake), St. Joseph's Cathedral |
| Afternoon | Cultural Exploration & Shopping | Stroll through the 36 Old Streets, visit the National Museum of History, shop for souvenirs on Hang Ma, Hang Gai Streets |
| Evening (Fri-Sun) | Walking & Entertainment |
Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street, Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market, enjoy Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Puppet Theatre |
4. Essential 36 Old Streets Travel Tips for Convenience
The most effective way to experience the 36 Old Streets travel is by walking or renting a bicycle/cyclo:
- Walking: The best way to feel the pace of life, admire the architecture, and easily stop to sample food (where to eat in the Old Quarter).
- Other Transport: Try a cyclo ride around the 36 Old Streets to listen to introductions and take photos.
Note: The Old Quarter area is very crowded, especially on weekends. Be cautious when moving around and protect your personal belongings.
The Hanoi Old Quarter is more than just a place; it's a multi-sensory cultural experience. With its rich history and diverse cuisine, your 36 Old Streets travel journey will offer unforgettable memories of the capital city of Hanoi.
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