One of the best ways to experience Hanoi's Old Quarter is simply by walking through its maze-like streets. Each street is traditionally named after the goods once sold there, like Hàng Bạc (Silver Street) or Hàng Gai (Silk Street), and wandering around lets you soak in the architecture, street food, and vibrant energy of daily life.
Visiting Dong Xuan Market is a must. It’s one of the oldest and largest markets in Hanoi, where you can see the bustling trade of everything from clothes and electronics to dried foods and souvenirs, all under one roof.
For a deeper cultural experience, attend a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, located near Hoàn Kiếm Lake. The performances depict rural Vietnamese life, myths, and legends using an art form that dates back to the 11th century.
Don’t miss trying the famous egg coffee at a hidden café. Many cafés in the Old Quarter are tucked away in colonial-era buildings with narrow staircases, offering a cozy atmosphere and great views of the buzzing streets below.
