12 Things to Do in Hanoi Old Quarter (2025 Guide)

Why Everyone Ends Up in the Old Quarter

The Hanoi Old Quarter is the beating heart of Vietnam’s capital. If you’re traveling solo or backpacking through Southeast Asia, you’ll end up here eventually- whether you planned to or not. The streets are wild,alongside legendary foods. The history is older than you can imagine. And best of all? You’re never far from something weird, tasty, or completely unforgettable.

If you’re staying at Quiri Hostel Hanoi, you’re right in the center of it all. Cozy rooms, a welcome beer, and free breakfast mean you’ll roll out ready to explore this maze of culture, chaos, and charm.

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Where Is Hanoi Old Quarter?

The Old Quarter sits just north of Hoan Kiem Lake in central Hanoi. It’s made up of around 36 historic streets that date back over 1,000 years. Back then, each street was known for a specific trade—silver, paper, herbs, or blacksmithing. Today, it’s a mix of shops, scooters, street vendors, and cafés packed into tiny alleys.

It’s also a perfect base to reach:

• Hoan Kiem Lake (5-minute walk)

• Dong Xuan Market

• Train Street

• St. Joseph’s Cathedral
  All within walking distance from hostels.

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12 Must-Do Experiences in Hanoi Old Quarter

1. Try Egg Coffee at a Hidden Café
Yes, it’s real. Egg Coffee topped with sweet, foamy egg yolk. It tastes like tiramisu in a cup. Head to a small café tucked down an alley for the full experience.

2. Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake at Sunset
Locals come here for exercise, couples take walks, and tourists soak in the energy. A walk around the lake is the best way to slow down and take it all in.

3. Visit Ngoc Son Temple via the Red Bridge
Cross the bright red bridge and explore this peaceful temple sitting on a tiny island in the middle of the lake. It’s quiet, photogenic, and full of history.

4. Get Lost in the 36 Streets
No map needed. Just walk. Each turn brings new street food, old architecture, and hidden shops. The deeper you wander, the more real Hanoi feels.

5. Eat Pho from a Sidewalk Stool
Skip the restaurants. Sit on the plastic stool. Order beef pho. Add a squeeze of lime and some fresh herbs. This is Vietnam at its best.

6. Take a Street Food Walking Tour
Let a local guide you through the best bites you’d probably miss on your own. You’ll try banh cuon, bun cha, and things you’ll forget the name of but never the taste.

7. See the Weekend Night Market
Every Friday to Sunday, streets shut down and the night market takes over. Shop for clothes, art, or knockoff sunglasses while live music plays nearby.

8. Watch a Water Puppet Show
Traditional Vietnamese storytelling—on water. Sounds weird? It is. And it’s also a unique cultural show just a few minutes from the lake.

9. Photograph St. Joseph’s Cathedral
It looks like it belongs in Paris, but it’s in the middle of Hanoi’s buzz. Great during the day, but even better when it lights up at night.

10. Drink Bia Hoi at Ta Hien Street
This is Hanoi’s beer street. Backpackers sit shoulder to shoulder drinking 5,000 VND drafts. Come to meet people. Stay for the chaos.

11. Shop at Dong Xuan Market
This massive indoor market sells everything from souvenirs to electronics to street snacks. It’s busy, loud, and definitely worth a look.

12. Watch a Train Go Through Train Street
Grab a drink at a café right by the tracks. When the train barrels through, it’s inches away. Just check ahead—some access points close randomly.

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Backpacker Tips for the Old Quarter

• Use Grab instead of flagging random taxis. It’s cheaper and more reliable.

• Keep your phone and wallet secure—some streets are tight and crowded.

• Exchange money at jewelry/gold shops on Ha Trung Street for better rates.

• Wake up early one morning and see the quiet side of Hanoi before the scooters come out.

• Join a free walking tour from local students for insider stories and secret spots.

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Start Your Trip at Quiri Hostel Hanoi

When you land in Hanoi, the Old Quarter can feel like a maze. That’s why having a reliable, friendly base makes all the difference—and Quiri Hostel Hanoi is exactly that.

Located at 25 Hang Luoc Street, in one of the quieter pockets of the Old Quarter, Quiri offers the perfect mix of local atmosphere and convenience. You’re just a 5-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, Train Street, Dong Xuan Market, and the chaos of Ta Hien Beer Street—but far enough away to actually get a good night’s sleep.

Here’s what makes Quiri Hostel a favorite among backpackers:

• Free Breakfast Every Morning
  Wake up to a simple but filling breakfast before hitting the streets. Vietnamese coffee included.

• Welcome Beer at Check-in
  You won’t be drinking alone. Enjoy a cold one and meet fellow travelers the moment you arrive.

• Clean, Cozy Rooms
  Choose between dorms or private rooms, all air-conditioned with solid Wi-Fi and hot showers. Beds come with lockers, reading lights, and charging ports.

• Chill Common Area
  Whether you’re recovering from a long bus ride or planning your Ha Giang Loop tour, the common area is perfect for chatting, reading, or just kicking back.

• Friendly English-Speaking Staff
  The team is always ready to help you find the best food spots, book buses, or join group activities. They also help organize local food tours and day trips if you want a break from solo wandering.

• Easy Access to Ha Giang Loop Tours
  Quiri Hostel Hanoi is the official starting point for Ha Giang Vision Loop tours, which means you can store your main luggage here, take just a small bag for the loop, and return when your ride is over. Booking is simple and secure, with group sizes limited to 8–14 riders for a better experience.

If you’re heading north, meeting other travelers, and soaking in Hanoi’s best street life, Quiri Hostel Hanoi is where your Vietnam adventure begins.

Book your stay or learn more at:
https://quirihostelhanoi.com/