Hanoi’s Old Quarter isn’t just a neighbourhood—it’s the beating heart of Vietnam’s capital.
After exploring this historic district during several visits, I can tell you it’s where ancient temples meet bustling night markets, where you’ll find the best street food in the city, and where you’re genuinely in the centre of everything worth seeing. If you’re wondering where to stay in Hanoi, the Old Quarter gives you walkable access to major landmarks, incredible food, and an atmosphere that shifts from busy daytime trading to magical evening entertainment.
Yes, it’s chaotic. Yes, the traffic is intense. But that’s precisely why staying here works so well—you’re already where you want to be, without spending half your day in taxis.
Table of Contents
Essential Planning Information
Getting There
Scoot, Singapore Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines fly direct from Singapore in about 3.5 hours. Airport transfer from Noi Bai International Airport, it’s under an hour to the Old Quarter.
Visa Requirements
Most travellers need a visa for Vietnam. Some countries qualify for a visa on arrival, but check requirements at least two weeks before you travel to avoid last-minute stress.
When to Visit
April to November offers the best weather—less rain and slightly cooler temperatures. The humidity is still there (this is Vietnam, after all), but it’s manageable.
Travel Insurance
Don’t skip travel insurance. I use SafetyWing for all my trips—it’s designed for long-term travellers and covers medical emergencies, which is essential in Southeast Asia.
Money Matters
The Vietnamese dong is the local currency. Bring cash for markets and street food. For tipping, it’s not mandatory but greatly appreciated for good service—just use clean notes, never coins or damaged bills.
Why the Old Quarter Works as Your Home Base
You’re Walking Distance to Everything That Matters
I’ve stayed in various Hanoi neighbourhoods, and the Old Quarter wins for convenience. Ngoc Son Temple, Old City Gate, and Hoan Kiem Lake are all within a 10-minute walk. The Hanoi Opera House and French Quarter are just a bit further.
The streets are narrow and constantly busy with motorbikes, so if you’d rather not navigate the chaos on foot, a pedicab tour lets you see the major sites without the stress.
The History Is Everywhere You Look
This district dates back to the 11th century and has always been Hanoi’s commercial heart. Each street was originally dedicated to a specific craft or trade—you can still see this influence today. The mix of Buddhist temples, Catholic churches, and colonial architecture tells the story of everyone who’s passed through here over the centuries.
Chua Ba Da, a Buddhist temple built in 1056, opens daily from 8am to 9pm. It’s a peaceful break from the busy streets outside.
Weekend Night Markets Are the Real Deal
Forget tourist traps—the Old Quarter night markets are where locals shop. Every weekend, the streets close to motor traffic and transform into rows of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to clothing and toys.
Bring cash and be ready to bargain. If markets aren’t your thing, boutiques like Collective Memory offer unique, quality items you won’t find anywhere else.
The Food Alone Justifies Staying Here
The Old Quarter is Vietnam’s street food capital. Tiny stools on pavements serve incredible pho and bun cha, while French-influenced bakeries offer perfect banh mi. I’ve never eaten badly here.
If you’re nervous about choosing where to eat, a guided street food tour takes the guesswork out. Otherwise, look for where the locals are queuing—that’s always a good sign.
My recommendation: Hanoi Food Culture is a restaurant and cooking school with delicious food, friendly staff, and beautiful traditional decor. It’s worth booking ahead.
The Atmosphere Changes Throughout the Day
During the day, the Old Quarter hums with commerce—people working, shopping, and going about their lives. Come evening, especially on weekends and holidays, the energy shifts completely. Buskers appear, families come out to stroll, and the streets fill with that particular magic that happens when a neighbourhood truly comes alive.
For traditional Vietnamese entertainment, catch a water puppet show—an art form that originated in the Red River Delta thousands of years ago.
Accommodation in the Old Quarter Hanoi
Hotel Emerald Waters Hanoi – this boutique hotel offers comfortable rooms with breakfast included, a rooftop pool and bar, and you’re within walking distance of all the main sites. The price is reasonable for what you get, and the rooftop is lovely in the evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion / Read More
The Old Quarter isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is—a working neighbourhood that happens to be historically significant and absolutely packed with life. It’s noisy, busy, and sometimes overwhelming. It’s also fascinating, delicious, and convenient.
Start by booking your flights to Hanoi, then secure accommodation in the Old Quarter. The earlier you book, the better your choice of hotels.
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