Visiting Hanoi's Old Quarter

Thirty-six winding streets comprise Hanoi’s Old Quarter, creating a kind of organized chaos that attracts curious visitors from all over. A stroll through this neighborhood will give you a good feel for what Hanoi was like years ago, while also reminding you of how the city maintains its historic charm to this day. Stunning buildings flank the busy, yet charming roads, and stall upon stall of local vendors offer endless intrigue. Whether you’re a shopaholic or naturally averse to the tradition, browsing the shops of Hanoi’s Old Quarter is sure to bring up a few interesting finds. This nostalgic neighborhood is full of activity, and visitors often spend hours roaming the streets, camera in-hand. Check out these sights worth your time to optimize your day in the old town. Just watch out for the scooters, motorcycles, bikes, and pedestrians that flood the streets, especially during rush hour. Staying alert will not only help you absorb the most out of your visit, but will also keep you from being flattened by a rickshaw.

Shopping, Eating, and More Shopping: As it is likely becoming clear to you, Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a treasure trove of local crafts, jewelry, pottery, china, bamboo products, and other fun trinkets and gifts. In addition to the anchored shops and stalls, visitors will find mobile vendors selling from their baskets and bicycles. Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings bring the area’s famous night market, a favorite among both locals and tourists. For brave souls with gastronomic interests, Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the perfect place to try traditional Vietnamese street food -- try treats like banana fritters, grilled prawns, or a traditional rice noodle soup.

Temple of Literature: Also referred to as the Temple of Confucius, this historic site once acted as Vietnam’s first national university. Built as a dedication to its namesake philosopher, the temple is an important historical site, though it has been rebuilt and refurbished many times since its inception in 1070. Today it serves as a cultural outpost, playing host to local educational and cultural events. The complex is comprised of several parks, lakes, courtyards, and buildings, and offers a surprisingly serene escape from the busy pandemonium of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

One Pillar Pagoda: As one of the most well-recognized images of Hanoi, the One Pillar Pagoda exemplifies Vietnamese architecture. This gazebo-like structure stands alone in the middle of a calm lotus pond, beckoning visitors from the outside commotion. The Pillar was originally a wooden tree trunk, but when the building was destroyed during WWII it was rebuilt using a stronger cement. According to the legend surrounding this temple, the pagoda represents a Buddhist goddess sitting atop a lotus flower. When you've had enough of the hubbub of Hanoi's Old Quarter, this is a wonderful place for a break.

After soaking up the history in Hanoi's Old Quarter, discover some of the other great attractions in Hanoi.