1. Overview of the Old Quarter in Hanoi
Located between Hoan Kiem Lake and Long Bien Bridge, Hanoi Old Quarter is a historic area in the heart of Hoan Kiem District, spanning just 1 square kilometer. Comprising 36 ancient streets, it is so iconic that a folk song, “Hanoi 36 Old Streets” (Hà Nội 36 phố phường), was written about it. The Old Quarter has existed for over 1,000 years, dating back to 1010 when King Ly Thai To of the Ly Dynasty established Hanoi as the country’s capital. Many of its streets, as you can see in the Hanoi Old Quarter Map, are named after the traditional crafts that artisans brought with them when they moved to the city, such as Hang Bac (Silver Street), Hang Ma (Paper Street), and Hang Gai (Silk Street). 2. How to Enter the Hanoi Old Quarter
The Hanoi Old Quarter map is located right in the heart of Hoan Kiem District, so getting there is easy no matter where you start your journey.
From Noi Bai International Airport (HAN): The Old Quarter is about 25 km away. You can take a taxi (45–60 minutes), a ride-hailing app like Grab, or the Airport Shuttle Bus, which stops at Long Bien and Hoan Kiem Lake – both within walking distance.
From Hanoi Train Station: It’s just 2 km from the Old Quarter. A quick 5–10 minute taxi or motorbike ride will bring you straight into the area.
By Local Bus: Several city buses pass by the Old Quarter, including routes No. 8, 9, 14, 31, and 36, with stops around Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market.
Walking from Hoan Kiem Lake: The lake is often considered the gateway to the Old Quarter. From here, you can easily stroll into bustling streets like Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, and Dinh Liet.
Most visitors prefer entering via Hoan Kiem Lake since it feels like a natural starting point — the lively streets branch out in every direction, making it perfect for your first exploration.
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3. Places to Visit on the Hanoi Old Quarter Map
3.1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is the symbol of the capital city, located at the southernmost peak of the Hanoi Old Quarter map. In the middle of the lake is the iconic Turtle Tower. The lake is surrounded by the infamous Walking Street, which is only 1.7 kilometers long, with many of Hanoi’s must-visit locations for you to explore. Start your trip at Trang Tien Plaza, then walk in an anti-clockwise direction. You can visit the Dinh Le Book Street – Hanoi Post Office – But Thap Pagoda – The Huc Bridge – Ngoc Son Temple – Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Be mindful that the streets only turn into a walking street from 9 PM Friday night until the end of Sunday. 3.2. Ma May Ancient House
Built over 100 years ago, Ma May Ancient House will give you a glimpse into the daily life of the Hanoi people in the past. Located at 87 Ma May Street, it is a symbol of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Today, it serves as a cultural museum, displaying antique furniture, traditional crafts, and historical photos, making it a must-visit for history lovers. 3.3. Ta Hien Street
Also known as the “International Street” or “Beer Street” of Hanoi, Ta Hien is a lively street in your Hanoi Old Quarter Map, where local culture meets cosmopolitan life. During the day, the street keeps its traditional look with rows of shophouses, but at night it turns into a bustling destination with bars, cafes, and food stalls. It’s the best place to try Hanoi’s famous “Bia hoi” (fresh beer) and enjoy the city’s vibe. 3.4. Bach Ma Temple
Bach Ma Temple is one of the four sacred temples of ancient Thang Long, located at 76-78 Hang Buom Street. It is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi, built over 1,000 years ago. Dedicated to the White Horse deity, the temple is the symbol of protection in the Hanoi Old Quarter map and prosperity for the city. 3.5. Hang Ma Street
Incredibly famous for its colorful decorations, Hang Ma Street is a must-visit during festivals, especially Tet, Halloween, Christmas, and Mid-Autumn Festival. The street specializes in paper crafts, from lanterns and toys to ceremonial offerings, perfect for shopping for souvenirs and photography. 3.6. Quan Chuong Gate
One of the last ancient city gates in Hanoi, Quan Chuong Gate, is located on Thanh Ha Street and is proof of Hanoi’s long history. Built in the 18th century during the Nguyen Dynasty, this gate was the Eastern gate of Hanoi’s fortifications. Its solid structure with arched entrances and old inscriptions will give you a glimpse of Hanoi’s defensive heritage. 3.7. Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest indoor market and a commercial hub in the Old Quarter. Established in 1889 during the French colonial era, it’s been a trade center for over 100 years. The five-story building houses a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to souvenir items. It is also a famous spot for Hanoi’s foodies that you should note on your Hanoi Old Quarter Map.4. What to Eat on the Hanoi Old Quarter Map
- Pho: For beef pho, head to Pho Ly Quoc Su or Pho Bat Dan, where you can taste generations-old recipes. For chicken lovers, Pho Nguyet, Pho Thao, and Pho Moc offer great chicken pho.
- Bun cha: Hang Quat Street is renowned for its bun cha stalls, offering smoky, savory goodness that pairs perfectly with crispy fried spring rolls.
- Xoi: For a satisfying meal, visit Xoi Yen or Xoi Co Son, where you’ll find a variety of Xoi for breakfast or a light lunch.
- Cha ca La Vong: Visit the legendary Cha Ca La Vong restaurant on Cha Ca Street for an authentic experience of this specialty, named after the street itself.
- Bun thang: Try this traditional noodle dish of Hanoi at Bun thang Ba Duc at 48th Cau Go Street
- Bun dau mam tom: For visitors who are not afraid of trying something new, visit 31st Hang Khay Street to try this infamous dish.
- Specialty Coffee in Hanoi: Hanoi is famous for many types of unique coffee, from the famous Eng Coffee to the Coconut coffee. Coming to Hanoi, you should not miss out on the coffee shops around the Old Quarter!
5. Where to Stay on the Hanoi Old Quarter Map
For some luxury hotels, you can check: - Sofitel Legend Metropole: 15 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem
- Movenpick Hotel Hanoi Centre: 83A Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem
- Oriental Jade Hotel: 92-94 Hang Trong Street, Hoan Kiem
- La Siesta Classic Ma May: 94 Ma May Street, Hoan Kiem
- Cinnamon Cathedral Hotel: 38 Au Trieu Street, Hoan Kiem
- Maison d’Orient: 26 Ngo Huyen, Hang Trong Street, Hoan Kiem
- Dahlia Hotel: 34 Hang Ga Street, Hoan Kiem
- Hanoi Gatsby Hotel: 33 Hang Trong Street, Hoan Kiem
- Hanoi La Selva Central Hotel: 90B Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem
- Golden Rooster Hotel: 17 Hang Ga Street, Hoan Kiem
6. When to Visit Hanoi Old Quarter
The best time to explore Hanoi Old Quarter is during the autumn months, from October to December. During this period, the weather is at its most pleasant, with cooler temperatures, crisp air, and beautiful greenery. Exploring the Hanoi Old Quarter map means plenty of walking, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, and a reliable Hanoi Old Quarter Map. Conclusion
Hanoi Old Quarter is a treasured heritage of history, culture, and local charm for Vietnam. With this Hanoi Old Quarter Map in hand, you’re well-equipped to discover the heart and soul of the capital city. Start planning your journey and let the Old Quarter’s timeless charm captivate you. After exploring these charming locations on the Hanoi Old Quarter Map, you should also spend some time at other nearby attractions such as the St Joseph’s Cathedral, Quan Thanh Temple, the Cua Bac Church, Hanoi Train Street, or Truc Bach Lake. Or you can book our Hanoi Highlights tour at YESD Travel, travel on foot with our local tour guide, and experience an authentic holiday of a Hanoian. Or if you want a quiet retreat from the bustling capital town, book our Hanoi Cultural Heritage tour to visit this authentic village of Hanoi – Ba Duong Noi village.