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Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Hanoi Old Quarter

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a bustling hub of history, culture, and daily life that every traveler must explore. Vietnam Discovery Travel offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of this historic city. From traditional water puppet shows to local food vendors, the Old Quarter offers unforgettable experiences.

Famous International Beer corner - Photo: doanhnghiepvietnam.org
Famous International Beer corner – Photo: doanhnghiepvietnam.org

1. Watch a Water Puppet Show

One of the most unique and traditional experiences in Hanoi is watching a water puppet show, an ancient art form that dates back over a thousand years. The water puppet performance captivates audiences with its colorful wooden puppets dancing across a water stage, accompanied by live traditional Vietnamese music. These shows depict scenes from rural life, folklore, and legends, all narrated through artistic puppetry and traditional instruments such as the đàn bầu and đàn tranh.

Watch water puppet show - Photo instagram @fabs_wen
Watch water puppet show – Photo instagram @fabs_wen

Address: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Ticket Price: 100,000 – 200,000 VND ($4.50 – $9 USD)

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: This performance combines history, culture, and entertainment, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Plus, the accompanying music is played live by talented musicians, further enhancing the experience.

2. Stroll Through Dong Xuan Market

Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market is the city’s largest indoor market and a central part of local life for over a century. From fresh produce, textiles, souvenirs, to street food, this market is a microcosm of Vietnamese culture. Wandering through its narrow aisles, you’ll witness the vibrant energy of daily commerce and get a taste of authentic local goods.

Stroll Through Dong Xuan Market
Stroll Through Dong Xuan Market-Source: Collected

Address: Dong Xuan Market, Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Price Range: Affordable; perfect for budget-conscious travelers

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Dong Xuan Market offers an immersive shopping experience where you can haggle for souvenirs or simply absorb the lively atmosphere.

3. Sip Bia Hoi at Ta Hien Street

After a day of exploring, head over to Ta Hien Street, known as the “International Beer Corner,” where both locals and tourists gather for a refreshing glass of Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s famous draught beer. The street comes alive at night with a vibrant buzz of chatter, music, and laughter. Sitting on low plastic stools, you’ll find yourself amidst the hustle and bustle, making new friends over a cold glass of beer.

Bia Hoi Ta Hien
Hanoi tour packages-https://vietnamdiscoverytours.com/

Address: Ta Hien Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Price Range: 11,000 – 15,000 VND per glass ($0.5 – $1 USD)

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Bia Hoi is not only one of the most affordable beers in the world but drinking it in the lively atmosphere of Ta Hien adds to the unique charm of the Old Quarter.

4. Explore Local Temples

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is home to several significant temples that offer insight into the spiritual and religious life of the Vietnamese people. A must-visit is Bach Ma Temple, one of the oldest in the city, dedicated to the white horse deity believed to protect Hanoi. Each temple reflects the deep-rooted Buddhist and Taoist traditions, and their intricate architecture, incense-filled air, and peaceful atmosphere offer a respite from the bustling streets outside.

Bach Ma Temple: Hanoi’s Oldest Spiritual Gem
Bach Ma Temple: Hanoi’s Oldest Spiritual Gem

Notable Temples to Visit:

  • Bach Ma Temple
    Address: 76 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
    Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Entrance Fee: Free
  • Ngoc Son Temple
    Address: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
    Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD)

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Visiting these temples provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s religious practices and the strong influence of Buddhism and Taoism in daily life.

5. Try Street Food from a Vendor

No trip to Hanoi is complete without indulging in its famous street food. The Old Quarter is packed with food vendors offering delicious local dishes like Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, and Nem Ran (fried spring rolls). These modest food stalls are where you’ll find some of the best and most authentic flavors of Hanoi. Be prepared to sit on tiny stools right on the sidewalk while enjoying your meal.

Try a food vendor - Photo @activities.marriott.com
Try a food vendor – Photo @activities.marriott.com

Popular Dishes and Prices:

  • Pho (Beef or Chicken Noodle Soup): 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.30 – $2.20 USD)
Pho in Hanoi
Pho in Hanoi
  • Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich): 20,000 – 35,000 VND ($0.90 – $1.50 USD)
Banh Mi in Hanoi
Banh Mi in Hanoi
  • Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles): 40,000 – 60,000 VND ($1.70 – $2.60 USD)
Bun Cha in Hanoi
Bun Cha in Hanoi

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Hanoi’s street food scene is renowned worldwide, and sampling dishes from these humble vendors allows you to experience authentic local cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.

6. Conclusion

Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter provides a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history, culture, and daily life. Whether you’re watching a water puppet show, sipping Bia Hoi, or trying street food, every corner of the Old Quarter offers something memorable. For a seamless travel experience, book your tour with Vietnam Discovery Tours. Contact us on WhatsApp for personalized travel plans and expert guidance that will make your trip to Hanoi unforgettable.