Stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Cultural Tour
Prepare for the magic of Hanoi on the “Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter" outstanding walking tour, which submerges you right into the heart of the cultural and historical wonders of the city. Let yourself be taken on this fascinating journey with Hanoi Tours through bustling markets, relishing delicious street food, and finding hidden nooks that reveal the true spirit of Hanoi. This tour is an unforgettable mixture of sightseeing, interaction with locals, and delicious eateries, which makes it the perfect way to understand the particular soul of the Old Quarter.
Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Cultural Gem of the Capital City
Come to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, also termed the vibrant heart of Hanoi, where over a millennium of history and culture springs to life in a kaleidoscope. This area has long been a bustling venue for trading activities, especially with its quirky 36 streets originally named for one kind of craft or product from silks to silver. Distinctively enough, as would be expected, going stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, one would say that it is a very important commercial hub, full of tales from the days gone by.
The Old Quarter is an architectural marvel, too, with its curiously combined styles. Take a walk through its narrow lanes and marvel at the tube houses, French colonial buildings, and ancient temples and pagodas that stand as mute witnesses to the tumbling centuries of change. Bustling streets filled with scooters, street vendors, and traditional shops add more character to the area.
And of course, the Old Quarter is famous for its vibrant street life! It would go without saying that on a tour with Hanoi Tours, you will witness locals haggle in busy markets, indulge yourself in some delectable street food, and find yourself engaging in everyday rituals that are so evocative of the rich culture of Hanoi. This cacophonous district strikes a great balance between just the right amount of ancient traditions and modern energy essential elements that inherently make the district a must-see for every traveler.
Detailed Itinerary for “Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Walking Tour to Discover Culture”
Morning Start: Breakfast and Coffee in Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter tour (8:00 AM – 9:30 AM)
Breakfast and Coffee
Our exciting tour starts right with the most emblematic dish of Hanoi: Pho! Meet us at a famous local eatery with a scrumptious bowl of Pho filled with scents that will doubtless give you just the perfect start to your day in the warm and mouthwatering broth, soft noodles, and fragrant greens dancing in your mouth. The next is to introduce you to Hanoi’s unique cafe culture. Take a visit to a vintage café and sip on an Egg Coffee-friendly mixture of strong, bold, and creamy Vietnamese coffee with a whipped egg that will delight the senses!
Exploration of Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter tour (9:30 AM – 10:30 AM)
Ngoc Son Temple
After breakfast, we will take an easy walk stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter onto picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake. Strolling around the lake, with a description of the magical legend about the gigantic turtle, will allow me to introduce you to the place it takes in Vietnamese mythology. Further, we cross the famous red Huc Bridge to visit the picturesque Ngoc Son Temple to experience the spiritual atmosphere inside and get acquainted with the history of this landmark of culture.
Cultural Stops: Dinh Le Book Street and Hanoi Opera House in Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter tour (10:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Next, we stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter headed to Dinh Le Book Street, a sanctuary for book lovers and something close to a treasure chest in terms of Vietnamese literature. Afterward, we head toward the elegant Hanoi Opera House, one of the most stunning architectures representing French colonial styles and the places of festive activities in the city. Do appreciate the almost regal atmosphere of its design and take some amazing photos!
Hanoi Opera House
Lunch Break: Taste Local Delicacies (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM)
Time to shoot down some local delights with a stop at a prominent local restaurant where we sample two legendary local dishes: Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles) and Xoi Xeo (sticky rice with mung beans and fried shallots). Ready your palette for an explosion of flavor that is simply sure likely to get you to fall in love with Hanoi’s cuisine.
After lunch, our adventure will keep traveling to some of the most historical streets in Hanoi. We will pay a visit to the beautiful Hang Trong Street and look up, admiring the Gothic-style architecture of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, then meander down the bustling Ly Quoc Su Street. Our journey continues into the lovely hidden alleys such as Tam Thuong Alley, where you can relish in local snacks like nem chua ran-fried fermented pork rolls. We will also make a stop at Hang Da Market to experience the local life, discover goods sold uniquely, and indulge in more street food delicacies.
Historic Streets
Iconic Streets: Train Street, Phung Hung Mural Street, and Hang Ma (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Are you ready for more famous landmarks? We will move on to see the well-known Train Street, where you will feel your heart race as the energetic train runs along the narrow lane, just some inches away from Vietnamese houses! After that, we will move on to see Phung Hung Mural Street, with colorful murals from local and international artists. Last but not by any means, we end the afternoon with a visit to the lively Hang Ma Street, which is known for its festive decorations and paper goods.
Evening Exploration and Dinner: Ta Hien Street in Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter tour (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM)
At the end of the day, we head to Hanoi’s “Beer Corner" on Ta Hien Street. You’ll be mixing with locals and tourists alike as you take back an experience of enjoying a glass of freshly draught Bia Hoi, together with an array of Hanoi street food. Take in the vibrant evening energy and catch a meal experience that’s authentically local and just right to end your day of sightseeing.
Night Activities: Weekend Night Market and Conclusion (8:30 PM – 9:30 PM)
The last stop is the Weekend Night Market, near Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can see hundreds of stalls selling absolutely everything, from unique souvenirs to more local treats and street performances. As your day with me comes to a close, you will head home full of fantastic memories from your walking stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter just a snapshot of the spirit and culture of Hanoi!
Tips for Participating in the “Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Walking Tour to Discover Culture”
What to Wear and Bring for Stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter: A Cultural Tour
Put on some comfortable attire, as that is key to enjoying your walk around the stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Lightweight clothes will help you stay warm in Hanoi’s tropical weather. Do not forget to wear your walking shoes, as the Old Quarter is best explored on foot. Wear a hat and sunscreen to guard you from the sun, and do not forget your reusable water bottle to keep yourself hydrated all day. Remember, there will be a lot of walking, so get your walking shoes on to have some fun with Hanoi Tours!
Dietary Considerations
Worried about being on a diet? Worry not, as our tour offers ample vegetarian options and can take into account any other preferences you have in your dietary plan. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or have special dietary needs, Hanoi’s Old Quarter street foods have something to offer for just about anyone. Just let us know in advance, and we’ll make sure your time in stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter is as delicious as it is memorable!
Safety and Hygiene Tips
Safety and hygiene are our prime concerns on this adventure! We have chosen only reputed vendors who sell hygiene-preserved foods, so you don’t miss out on the best local foods. Keep yourself hydrated with the water that you are already carrying in your reusable water bottle. Make a point to carry small denominations of the local currency, the Vietnamese Dong, to help you make really quick, simple purchases at the street stalls. Alright, you can always ask your guide where to change money or if you are in doubt about the vendor;
Local Interactions
One of the highlights of our walking itinerary in a stroll through Hanoi’s Old Quarter is the opportunity to talk to and be among friendly people you shall visit with just a few simple Vietnamese phrases. You can greet with a joyful “Xin chào! “ (Hello!) or thank with “Cảm ơn! " (Thank you!). Additionally, picking up etiquette tips such as making sure that when giving or receiving something, you always use both of your hands is quite invaluable. It’s difficult for us to believe that your experience is not going to be the fullest in Hanoi Tours with an open heart, good manners, and willingness to learn more.
Impress Travel: The Top Choice for Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tours
Do it with Impress Travel, one of the finest tour operators in Vietnam, known for its specialization in cultural and historical tours. Our dedicated team of professionals has a passion for creating distinctive product experiences that capture the soul of Hanoi, alive with its vibrant culture, rich history, and hidden gems. Professional guides, tight itineraries, personalized services with a focus on the satisfaction of the customer, and professionally packed care make every adventure in the heart of this city a special, cherished memory.
Either of your Hanoi Tours booked through Impress Travel promises safety, local cultural knowledge, and very thoughtful service. Do not just take our word for it; many happy customers have shared their thoughts through glowing reviews about the unforgettable experiences they have booked with us. Take off on a cultural journey in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Contact us today at (+84) 912 379 189 or contact us at info@impresstravel.com to book your tour now!
Hanoi Head Office
125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi
Tel: (+84) 912 379 189
Email: hanoi@impresstravel.com
Saigon Office
155 Ben Van Don, Rivergate, 4 District, HCM
Tel: (+84)961675566
Email: saigon@impresstravel.com
Conclusion: A Call to Action
walk the real-life fairy tale of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with us on a Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Experience life on the street, get lost in the narrow alleys, and discover Hanoi’s diversely rich cultural tapestry. This tour will take you into the very heart of Hanoi: from the aromas of street food to hidden stories behind the gates of historic temples.
Unravel the secrets of the Old Quarter with expert guidance from Impress Travel for memorable experiences that will last a lifetime. Do not miss an amazing chance to explore Hanoi, just like any local! Book Stroll Through Hanoi’s Old Quarter today with this and see a new dimension on how to discover flavors and fun. Call (+84) 912 379 189 or write us an email to info@impresstravel.com. Ready to set off? Click here to book enough positions to kick off cultural exploration with the best of Hanoi Tours! Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.
Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Tours Itinerary
Day 01
HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Good morning, pick you up at Noi Bai International
Airport and transfer to Hanoi Capital city.
Check-in the hotel then have lunch at the restaurant.
Afternoon sightseeing tour begins with a visit to President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum ( closed on Monday and Friday, every afternoon, and whole from 15 June – 15 August, view the outside the building). Inside the mausoleum, there are sightseeing of the Presidential Palace (view from outside), President’s Fishpond, House On Stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda.
Next, we will pay a visit to the Temple of Literature. It is where Confucius – The founder of Confucianism was worshiped. This place as known as the first National University of Vietnam. It is where kings, mandarins, talented people of Vietnam training to the functionary.
Our tour continues with an exciting visit. We will visit one of the most beautiful lakes in Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake. Then, we will go to the Ngoc Son Temple, which is in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Continue a short walking tour around the old quarter with a tour guide.
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day 02
HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Good morning, have breakfast at the hotel.
7.30 – 8.00 AM: Pick you up at your hotel in the Old Quarter and transfer to Tam Coc.
8.00 – 10.00 AM: After two hours of transferring, our tour guide will introduce you to Vietnam as the history, culture, lifestyle of local people on the way from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
10 AM: We will prepare for a boat trip to visit the beautiful Tam Coc. It takes 1.30 hours rowing along the Ngo Dong river through the three mysterious caves. You can enjoy spectacular scenery surrounded by rice paddies and towering limestone mountain peaks.
11.30 AM: We will get on Thanh pier for a short walk to visit Thai Vi Temple, which is one of the well-known temples in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. We will continue 10 minutes walking along majestic valley with rice fields, rivers.
Enjoy your lunch – Vietnamese food.
2:00 – 3:00 PM: We ride a bike to Thung Nang, along the river among the rice field, lotus ponds, and limestone Mountains. We will continue to through a peaceful Dan Khe Trong village. This area is a real picture of the rural countryside in the north of Vietnam.
15: 00: Return the van, drive to visit Hoa Lu Ancient citadel which was built in the 10th century, and the temple dedicated to King Dinh and King Le
Return to Hanoi Capital.
Overnight at the Hanoi Hotel.
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day 03
HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Good morning, have breakfast at your hotel, then check-out of the hotel.
07:30 am – 08:00 am, pick up from your hotel to travel to Halong Bay (notice: pickup time can be a bit flexible depending on each different Cruise, distance Hanoi – Halong bay is 160km, a stop for break time on halfway for a refreshment).
You enjoy the drive and sightseeing of the peaceful countryside scenery during the bus trip (4 hours). We arrive at the Ha Long bay seaport at around noontime.
At noon, you aboard the cruise, check-in & enjoy a welcome drink while your cabin is assigned.
Check-in your cabin and put your luggage inside the cabin. Try to relax and do a short tour by moving around the cruise to learn about the cruise’s architecture & design.
Relaxing, sightseeing and taking photos
A sumptuous lunch with fresh seafood meal is served while the cruise was slowly gliding out into the Halong bay.
15h00 – 16h00 explore the amazing Sung Sot Cave – the most beautiful cave in Halong Bay.
16h00 – 17h00 Cruising to Titov Island for swimming and relaxing at the beach. You can climb up to the top of the island for a panorama view of Halong Bay.
17h00 – 17h30 Return to the main boat. Continue cruising to the quiet area while enjoying the beautiful sea view on the way.
17h30 – 19h00 Enjoy Sunset Party on the cruise and admire the best moments of the day. It is when the sunset happens.
19h00 Dinner is served. Socialize with other guests, take part in board games, go fishing for squid, or just laze around.
Overnight in your cabin on Cruise.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
Day 04
HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Start your day with Tai Chi exercises or a photo hunt.
07h00 – 07h30 Have breakfast on board and enjoy the peaceful morning of Halong Bay.
08h30 – 09h30 Kayak among the hidden areas of the bay, around the Drum Cave.
09h45 Return to the boat. Freshen up and check out of your cabin.
10h00 – 10h30 Continue your cruise exploring the Bay, passing Ba Hang fishing village, Dog Islet, and more.
10h30 – 11h30 while heading back to the harbor, watch the fruit carving demonstration and participate in the Cooking Class before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
11h45 – 12h00 Disembark in Halong Bay Port.
12h15 – 12h30 Transfer back to Hanoi.
About 16:00 – Arrival back to Hanoi central city, recheck in the hotel
Free time & Overnight in Hanoi city
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, brunch, activities in Halong bay, transfer, tour guide, hotel in Hanoi.
Day 05
HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Good morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then, you have some free time to explore Hanoi city before going to Noi Bai airport for your scheduled flight.
The end of the tour, thank you and see you again!
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, transfer, tour guide.
What’s included in this trip :
A/C accommodation with DOUBLE or TWIN ROOM (2 persons share 1 room; single room can be available on request) with daily breakfast
A/C transfer from Airports to the hotel and other tourist destinations according to the itinerary
Bus round trip to Hanoi – Ha Long Bay; (private land transfer available on request)
2 days 1 night on Joint Cruise trip in Ha Long Bay, with DOUBLE or TWIN (2 persons share 1 cabin; single cabin can be available on request), full meals on board
Kayaking in Ha Long Bay
Meals as indicated in the itinerary. (Breakfast = 04; Lunch = 04; Dinner = 01)
English- speaking guides as specified (Chinese/ Malaysian speaking guide can be available on request)
Rowing boat & biking in Tam Coc, Ninh Binh
Entrance fees
Mineral water (2 bottles/ per day with sightseeing tour)
What’s excluded in this trip:
All international and domestic flights
Specified as Chinese/ Malaysian/ Indonesian/Thai speaking guide can be available on request to pay for extra-fee.
Travel Insurance
Airport taxes
All meals not mentioned
Tips for tour guides, drivers, crew members in Ha Long Bay, other attendants if may have (3 USD/pax/day)
Other personal expenses not mentioned.
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City
Hotel
Room
Hanoi
Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium
Deluxe with windows
Halong Bay
Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise
Deluxe with windows
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
City
Hotel
Room
Hanoi
Peridot Hotel/Apricot
Deluxe with windows
Halong Bay
Paradise Elegance/Au Co
Deluxe with windows
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating! We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC. The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T". I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all. Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team. Sulaiman Pochee
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress. Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide). Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
CHECK PRICE & AVAILABILITY - BEST QUALITY GUARANTEE
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
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