Nha Tho Street: A Must-Visit Destination in Your Hanoi Tours

Where is Nha Tho Street?

Nha Tho Street in Hanoi

Found centrally in the Hoan Kiem District of Hanoi, Vietnam, Nha Tho Street, sometimes known as Church Street, For visitors touring the core of Hanoi, this little street is conveniently located near the famous Hoan Kiem Lake. Trendy boutique boutiques offering top quality goods you won’t find anywhere else in Hanoi line Nha Tho Street, a 110-meter length street. Because of the quality of the products sold here, Hanoi’s sophisticated middle class and foreign expat community frequent this street as a shopping destination.

The History of Nha Tho Street

Old Church Street

Rich in historical backdrop, Nha Tho Street began with the French colonial era. Its name, “Nha Tho," means “church" in Vietnamese, in homage to the great St. Joseph’s Cathedral commanding the street. Constructed in 1886, this neo-Gothic church is evidence of Hanoi’s colonial heritage and mix of Western and Vietnamese inspirations. It runs 110 metres from Hang Trong to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, or Hanoi Cathedral. Starting in 1886, the architectural style identified as Notre Dame de Paris dominated the construction. Opening in December 1886, the church was among the earliest buildings constructed by the French colonial authority in Indochina. Among Hanoi’s churches, this is the oldest.

What is Nha Tho Street Well-Known For?

Nha Tho Street

Renowned for its vivid atmosphere and gorgeous elegance is Nha Tho Street. These few salient features help to explain its popularity:

St. Joseph’s Cathedral

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is situated at Nha Tho Street intersection of Nha Chung, Ly Quoc Su, in the Old Quarter of Hanoi. Not far from Hoan Kiem Lake, the church boasts twin bell towers and stained windows.

St. Joseph’s Cathedral is rather close by. Head from Hoan Kiem Lake to Hang Gai Street and proceed on till you come upon Ly Quoc Su Street on the left. The Cathedral will be seen as you stroll Ly Quoc Su Street towards the end.

You have several ways of getting to St. Joseph’s Cathedral. You might ride your own motorbike or bicycle or grab a cyclo or taxi. You could alternatively walk to the cathedral after boarding a bus that stops close by.

Built during the French colonial era, St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi is a typical example of colonial architectural creations in the capital of Vietnam.

Before St. Joseph’s Cathedral was constructed, there formerly was a Buddhist pagoda called Bao Thien in the grounds of the cathedral. During the Ly-Tran Dynasties, this pagoda stood as the largest and most revered one. Some of the pagoda was destroyed at the end of the 18th century to create a market. Then the cathedral was built at the site, first of wood. Built from baked clay in 1884, it was completed Christmas of 1888.

Catholicism was extensively introduced during the French colonial era, and St. Joseph’s Cathedral developed as the hub of Catholicism in Northern Vietnam. At that time the cathedral hosted daily and weekly rituals. For thousands of Northern Catholics as well as a hiding place for Vietnamese revolutionary forces, it functioned as a sacred site.

Following the exodus of French colonists from Northern Vietnam, the cathedral closed and came under Democratic Republic of Vietnam government authority in 1954. The cathedral was reopened for the Catholics just around Christmas in 1990.

Cafés and Restaurants

La Place’s food

Charming cafés and restaurants located around Nha Tho Street provide a blend of traditional Vietnamese food with international flair. Popular venues are La Place and The Church Boutique Hotel Café.

L’essence De Cuisine

Here at L’essence De Cuisine, culinary brilliance meets outstanding dining. Our restaurant in Hanoi Old Quarter is known for its delicious flavors, impeccable service, and engaging atmosphere. Our exquisite dining room has modern décor and soft lighting for a cozy, sophisticated ambiance. L’essence is ideal for a romantic supper, a party, or a corporate function. L’essence skilled and attentive staff strives to make every visit unforgettable. We exceed our visitors’ expectations by recommending the appropriate wine pairing and fulfilling unique dietary demands. In addition to our à la carte menu, we offer seasonal tasting menus that take you on a gastronomic journey through seasonal flavors. Each meal is beautifully plated to wow the eyes and taste buds. L’essence believes dining should be about building memories as much as nourishment. L’essence Restaurant is the perfect place for superb dining or a memorable meal. Every bite at L’essence De Cuisine is a masterpiece, and every moment is savored. Welcome to an unforgettable eating experience. 

CONTACT INFORMATION

Located: 99 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

Phone: +84 98 825 62 26

Website: https://lessencedecuisine.com/

REVIEW

“Vers Nice food and staff. Recommend it to my family. Nice mood. Fresh , ok also for veggies. Entrances and dishes are very healthy.”

“The food was excellent and the service was impeccable. The restaurant was clean. We shared the feast for friends. Highly recommend it!”

“The food was delicious and they had great family style meals! I would highly recommend this place for anyone traveling here”

“This was such a great experience, fantastic service, and fantastic food. 5 stars. 10/10 recommendation. The tropical vibes mock-tail was immaculate”

Rice Bistro’s food

Original Rice Bistro opened in 1994 in Old Quarter, Hanoi. Our restaurant offers a unique Westernized Vietnamese dining experience. Our Chef has designed several excellent dishes inspired by native flavors and western eating style. The cooler climate and historical culture of northern Vietnam are reflected in our menu’s flavors and ingredients. Vietnam has three food regions: North, Central, and South, each with its unique climate, culture, and cuisine.

The Rice Bistro’s modern decor, pleasant colors, and artworks make dining there a fresh experience, displaying Vietnamese cuisine’s numerous dimensions and northern delicacies. Unique decor and cuisine. Have you tried it? 

CONTACT INFORMATION

Located : 32 Hang Manh Street, Hoan Kiem District Suite number, intersection, plaza, square, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

Phone: +84 24 3928 8912

Website: https://ricebistro.com.vn/

REVIEW

“Great service and food. Great service from Cassie. Lovely decor and ambience and cool a/c. Great BBQ pork spare ribs. Very nice fried rice.”

“All food and service were great! We had a great time. You should visit this restaurant if you visit Hanoi. Thank you Cassie!”

“Meal was very good. Mr Park’s recommendation was really worthy. And Cassie 🥇 make us happy. She was so kind. Thank you for your service.”

“Perfect food and very kind service. Cassie offered us good hospitality. I recommend this place very much. Please come and visit when you come to hanoi.”

Nha Tho Street in Ha Noi

The dynamic capital of Vietnam guarantees an amazing trip for every tourist with its unique blend of old heritage and modern charm.

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a tranquil refuge in the Old Quarter, to begin your exploration. Visit Ngoc Son Temple, walk along tree-lined walkways, and watch morning tai chi. The Old Quarter’s tiny lanes are filled with stores, street food sellers, and old architecture, each specializing in a distinct trade and revealing Hanoi’s complex cultural tapestry.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Vietnam’s earliest university, the Temple of Literature, to learn more about Vietnamese history. Hanoi’s street food, from photo banh mi, and Tay Ho District nightlife offer modern experiences.

Old Quarter in Ha Noi

Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers a distinct and immersive experience in every corner, inviting visitors to discover the city’s ancient beauty.

Get lost in its small lanes surrounded with centuries-old houses, where roadside vendors and busy markets sell delicious street food and handmade gifts. In the maze of streets, find hidden temples and pagodas. Relax with delicious Vietnamese coffee. How about ending the day with the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre?

Useful Info

Address: Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi 

Hanoi Street Food

Take a local foodie-led Hanoi Street meals Tour and taste great meals. Sample rice noodle soup with beef, snails, and steamed pancakes in Vietnam’s capital to experience its rich tastes. If you choose lunch or supper, you’ll enjoy traditional Hanoian cuisine at local restaurants chosen by your guide.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple

This serene shrine honors intellectuals and battle heroes on an island at the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake. Its most famous feature is the preserved turtle carcass, related to the lake’s legend. This temple, accessible by a traditional Vietnamese-style red bridge, is one of Hanoi’s most popular, drawing people to its peaceful surroundings and rich cultural significance.

Important Information Address: Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Temple Of Literature

Built in 1070 under Lý Thánh Tông’s dynasty, the Temple of Literature is located ten minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake. The Confucius temple is one of Hanoi’s oldest. Vietnam’s first university opened six years later. Its terraced courtyards, altars, and shrines are wonderfully conserved, and its Vietnamese architecture is stunning.

Useful Info

Address: 58 Phố Quốc Tử Giám, Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hanoi.

Opening hours: 8am–5pm daily.

Public Transportation: Bus 23 stops in front of the site.

Phone: +84 24 3845 2917 

Conclusion

Nha Tho Street is a quintessential part of any Hanoi tour, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history, culture, and modern-day vibrancy. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, a shopper, or a casual explorer, Nha Tho Street promises a memorable experience. Make sure to add this charming street to your itinerary when visiting Hanoi, and discover why it remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.

Don’t forget to regularly follow our Facebook page and Website for more interesting information about traveling to Hanoi and to book Hanoi tours at the best prices.

All the latest breaking news & travel information on Hanoi travel. Browse The Independent’s complete collection of articles and commentary on Hanoi travel: Hanoi attractions, travel news, gallery, culture, history and tips.