Exploring the Old Quarter by Bike – A Detailed Tour Guide for Visitors

Exploring the Old Quarter by Bike – A Detailed Tour Guide for Visitors

Are you a tourist visiting the Old Quarter in Hanoi for the first time? Or perhaps you live in Hanoi but haven’t fully experienced its unique cultural spaces? To help you have an exciting exploration journey, the Hanoi Bike Tour will accompany you for a day of cycling through the Old Quarter. We hope it will be a memorable and wonderful experience.

Where is the Old Quarter located?

The Old Quarter of Hanoi, traditionally known as “bam sau pho phuong” (thirty-six streets and guilds), is located in Hoan Kiem District. It includes streets such as Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Hang Luoc, Hang Cot, Hang Duong, Hang Manh, Hang Tre, and Hang Ma. These streets are close to each other, and you can easily explore them by electric car, cyclo, or motorbike. However, cycling is the most convenient and flexible option, especially since many important streets have banned motorbikes and become pedestrian zones, such as the Hoan Kiem Lake area and Hang Ma.

Where is the Old Quarter located

If you plan to cycle through the Old Quarter, you can start your route from Cau Giay, pass through Kim Ma, Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Trieu Street, and then explore the Old Quarter.

Where to stay?

In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll find the heart of the city’s vibrant commerce and bustling activity, making it an ideal spot for travelers. This area is popular among both international and domestic tourists, which means you’ll have a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

Here are a couple of well-situated hotels in the Old Quarter that cater to foreign visitors:

Rising Dragon Villa Hotel

Address: 43A Bat Su, Hoan Kiem District, Old Quarter, Hanoi
Room rate: $22 – $69

Golden Time Hostel 3

Address: 108 Ma May, Hoan Kiem District, Old Quarter, Hanoi
Room rate: $15 – $21

Staying at these hotels will offer you convenient access to various streets and attractions in the Old Quarter. For first-time visitors to Vietnam without a translator or guide, it’s wise to choose a reputable place to avoid potential overcharging. Opt for accommodation that ensures both comfort and safety for an enjoyable stay.

Where to explore in the Old Quarter?

87 Ma May Ancient House

87 Ma May Ancient House

For a genuine glimpse into Hanoi’s cultural heritage, visit the 87 Ma May Ancient House. Perfect for first-time visitors, this well-preserved historic home offers an immersive experience of traditional Hanoi life and culture. Stepping into this house is like taking a journey back in time, showcasing the elegance and historic charm of the city’s past. The house remains a living testament to the refined customs of old Hanoi, and it welcomes tourists for a modest entrance fee of 10,000 VND

Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market, established in 1889, is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most vibrant markets. As a major commercial hub, it offers a diverse range of products, including souvenirs, local specialties, and clothing. Its bustling atmosphere and extensive selection make it an essential stop for shopping enthusiasts.

Hoan Kiem Lake – Ho Guom

Hoan Kiem Lake – Ho Guom

Hoan Kiem Lake, often regarded as the heart of Hanoi, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city. Steeped in history, it is famously associated with the legend of King Le Loi and the magical turtle god. The lake’s serene and majestic ambiance is complemented by nearby attractions such as Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge. Don’t forget to enjoy a cone of the renowned Trang Tien ice cream while strolling around the lake—a delightful way to experience the area.

O Quan Chuong Gate

O Quan Chuong Gate is one of the few remaining city gates and a significant relic of Vietnam’s rich history. Visiting this ancient structure allows you to appreciate the enduring spirit and historical significance of the nation’s past.

O Quan Chuong Gate

Bach Ma Temple

Address: 76 Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Bach Ma Temple is a poignant symbol of the Thang Long Citadel’s historical development. This ancient temple is intimately connected with the construction of the old citadel and offers a profound insight into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. History enthusiasts will find this site a fascinating place to explore and learn about the country’s storied past.

What to eat in the Old Quarter?

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is famous for its simple yet authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and popular spots:

Dong Xuan Market

This area is known for its tasty and affordable street food. You can enjoy a variety of dishes such as sweet soups (che), mixed fruit (hoa qua dam), grilled pork (bun cha), noodle soup (pho tiu), and mixed rice paper (banh trang tron). With budget-friendly prices, you can eat to your heart’s content.

Bun Cha Hang Buom

Bun Cha Hang Buom

Be sure to try bun cha in Hanoi. This dish features grilled pork patties served with a flavorful dipping sauce and fresh herbs. The combination of aromatic grilled meat and tangy-sweet dipping sauce is irresistible. Once you taste it, you’ll likely crave it on future visits.

Boiled Snails at Dinh Liet Street

Address: 1 Dinh Liet, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Boiled snails are a popular Hanoi delicacy. The chewy texture of the snails, paired with a spicy and tangy dipping sauce, makes for a delicious treat. Usually enjoyed around 5 PM, you can also try other variations like stir-fried or steamed snails, along with side dishes like fried spring rolls (nem ran). Expect to spend around 100,000 – 200,000 VND for a satisfying meal.

Stir-fried intestines and Stir-Fried Noodles at Nguyen Sieu Street

Address: 10, 16 Nguyen Sieu
Stir-fried intestines (long xao) and stir-fried noodles (pho xao) are other local favorites. The enticing aroma of these dishes is hard to miss. Stir-fried noodles come in both stir-fried and crispy versions, often served with beef sauce and pickled cucumber salad. For a hearty meal, you can enjoy these dishes for around 150,000 VND. Despite being street food, the vendors maintain good hygiene. To avoid long waits, it’s best to go early.

Where to shop?

As you explore the Old Quarter, you’ll encounter numerous shops offering a wide range of souvenirs perfect for gifts to family and friends. You can find items such as statues, paintings of famous landmarks, handcrafted jewelry, and clothing.

The Shop on old quater

For more unique options, visit streets like Hang Dao, Dong Xuan Market, and Hang Duong. If you have time, be sure to check out the Night Market in the Old Quarter on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday evenings.

Be sure to haggle to get the best prices, and consider shopping in the afternoon for a more enjoyable experience.

Relaxing After Your Trip

After a long and tiring day, take some time to unwind and relax. Ta Hien Street offers a great spot to enjoy a refreshing beer and traditional Vietnamese dishes. This area becomes lively with visitors after 5 PM, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere. You’ll find a shared sense of joy, passion, and love for Hanoi among the diverse crowd here.

Relaxing After Your Trip

For a more tranquil experience, visit one of the popular tea shops in the Old Quarter, such as Tra Chanh Cho Gao or Tra Chanh Nha Tho. During the summer, sitting with friends and enjoying a cool drink at these spots is a delightful way to relax.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Hanoi’s unique coffee culture. Head to Giang Cafe to immerse yourself in the cozy ambiance of a traditional Hanoi home, and savor a cup of creamy milk coffee or delicious egg coffee. Enjoying a song about Hanoi while sipping your coffee adds a nostalgic and soothing touch to your visit.

For a comfortable cycling experience around the Old Quarter, opt for loose, comfortable clothing and supportive sneakers instead of sandals, as you may need to walk in some areas. Bring small changes for entrance fees to various attractions.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, choose a suitable bicycle, and make sure it’s well-prepared before you start your journey.

Join the exploration of Old Quarter with the Hanoi Bike Tour

Hanoi Bike Tour

If you want to rent a bicycle, visit us at 128 Yen Hoa St, Tay Ho Dist, Hanoi. With the suggestions provided here for a tour of Hanoi, Hanoi Bike Tour hopes to offer you more options for your day trip in Hanoi. Contact us at (+84) 918889981 or email us at contact@hanoibiketour128.com for the best-priced tours in Hanoi.

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