Explore Hanoi Walking Streets: A Comprehensive Guide

In recent years, Hanoi Walking Streets has emerged as a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike, especially the young generation. This bustling area around Hoan Kiem Lake is now one of the most popular spots for entertainment and cultural exchange in Hanoi.

Location: Around Hoan Kiem Lake
Opening hours: Friday night to Sunday night every weekend
Entrance Fee: Free

1. Facts of Hanoi Walking Streets

1.1. Where Does It Cross?

Hanoi Walking Streets spans 26 streets, creating an expansive area for people to enjoy various activities. Here’s the complete list of streets included in the Hanoi Walking Streets map:

1.2. How Does It Look?

The old streets can be quite confusing, even for locals, and it’s easy to get lost. Using a map can help you navigate, and having access to Google Maps on your phone is highly recommended. The area around Hoan Kiem Lake and the bars on Ta Hien and Ma May streets are particularly crowded.

2. Cultural Activities in Hanoi Walking Streets

Hanoi Walking Streets offers a plethora of cultural and entertaining activities suitable for all ages. These activities include folk games, concerts, New Year countdowns, musical performances, and dancing contests.

2.1. Folk Games

An exciting feature of Hanoi Walking Streets is the Vietnamese folk games, which are often held on Saturday evenings and Sundays. Popular games include rope-skipping, tug-of-war, mandarin square capturing, and shuttlecock kicking. These games are suitable for both children and adults, and locals are friendly and willing to explain the rules.

2.2. Musical and Dancing Performances

Since its inception, Hanoi Walking Streets has hosted various musical and dancing performances. You’ll find artists performing Latin, folk, orchestral, light music, V-POP, K-POP, and US-UK songs. “K-POP in Public” is a popular trend among young people, and you can witness impressive dance covers by groups aged 17-23.

2.3. New Year Countdown

The New Year countdown event is a highlight, held annually at midnight on January 1st. A concert typically precedes the countdown, featuring famous artists. The event is extremely crowded, so if you’re not comfortable with large crowds, it might be best to avoid the center of the action.

2.4. Portrait Drawing

Portrait drawing is another popular activity. Artists around Hoan Kiem Lake offer quick sketches for about $5-$7. This is a wonderful way to capture your visit and hear interesting stories from the artists.

3. What to Eat in Hanoi Walking Streets?

Hanoi Walking Streets is a haven for street food lovers. Here are some must-try local dishes:

3.1. Trang Tien Ice Cream

A classic treat, Trang Tien Ice Cream costs just $0.5 each and comes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, green bean, and coconut milk. It’s located near the intersection of Ngo Quyen Street and Trang Tien Street.

Address: 35 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11 PM

3.2. Dried-beef Salad

Unique to Hanoi, this dish features dried beef topped with herbs and sauce, offering a sweet and salty taste. You can find it near Lotteria by Hoan Kiem Lake at “Long Vi Dung.”

Address: 23 Ho Hoan Kiem, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening hours: 8 AM – 10:30 PM

3.3. Pho Thin (Phở)

Pho is a signature Vietnamese dish, and Pho Thin is one of the best places to enjoy it. The restaurant is often crowded, so it’s best to visit on weekdays.

Address: 61 Dinh Tien Hoang, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 1 PM, 5 PM – 10:30 PM

4. Extra Tips

• Opening Days: Hanoi Walking Streets is only open from Friday night to Sunday night.
• Transportation: Take a taxi or bus to avoid the hassle of finding parking. However, if you need to park, some available points are 15 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ly Thai To, Ngo Quyen, Quang Trung, and Le Phung Hieu. Parking costs 10,000 VND for motorbikes and 50,000 VND for cars.
• Crowd Management: It gets very crowded, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake. Be cautious if you’re not used to large crowds.

Exploring Hanoi Walking Streets offers an immersive experience into Hanoi‘s vibrant culture. Located around Hoan Kiem Lake, these streets are bustling with activities, from traditional folk games and lively performances to delicious street food like Trang Tien ice cream and Pho Thin. With Vietnam Discovery Travel, ensure a seamless visit and enjoy the best of Hanoi’s cultural heart. Don’t miss this quintessential Hanoi experience!