The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience

4.8 (69 reviews) Hanoi, Vietnam
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Duration2h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Overview

Step into the soul of Hanoi through its Old Quarter, a vibrant maze with over a thousand years of history. Here, time seems to slow down as ancient streets, bustling markets, and timeless traditions transport you to another world entirely.

You can expect to see the gorgeous, the good, the bad, and the shocking parts of Hanoi. From the highest skyline bar, you can get an overview and sense of the history of Vietnam. Then, head down to see the small alley, Ta Hien beer corner, a local temple, a family-run doughnut shop, the hidden view of the Dong Xuan market, and the Long Bien bridge to understand how the traffic works (if you are confused about how people can drive here).

There will be many stories to take home!

Options

Hanoi Old Quarter Tour
Private Tour

Private Tour: Have lots of questions or a unique perspective? This private option is for you. Enjoy open minded discussions, deeper insight

What's included

  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Coffee and/or Tea
  • Gratuities

What to expect

  1. Bach Ma Temple
    20m · Admission ticket included
    In the middle of the Old Quarter, Bach Ma Temple is one of the oldest and holiest temples in the city, which was originally founded in the 9th century.
    The translation of Bach Ma is White Horse and this refers to a story behind the construction of the Temple. King Ly Thai To had been struggling to build the temple as its walls kept collapsing. It is said that a white horse delineated the best area to build the temple with its hooves to help the king in constructing the temple.
    Entering the temple through some ancient wooden doors after which you will be able to see the beautifully decorated interior and a red-lacquered funeral palanquin. Inside the temple, you will find a statue of the white horse, a shrine to Confucius, and a Phoenix Altar for offerings to the four seasons. Bach Ma Temple is still actively used by worshippers who come here to burn incense and pray.
  2. Long Bien Bridge
    15m · Admission ticket included
    Being an unique architecture everlasting with ups and downs of Hanoi capital, Long Bien Bridge has become one of the symbols of the city. The bridge is not only a traffic construction but also a living historical relic. Undergoing French and American wars, Long Bien Bridge has witnessed many historic moments.

    Long Bien Bridge was constructed from 1989 to 1902 during French occupation of the country. Not many people know that, with the length of over 2km, Long Bien bridge used to be the second longest bridge in the world, just after Brooklyn Bridge from American.

    Interestingly, Long Bien Bridge is the only bridge in Hanoi which allows tourists to take a walk along the train track, taste some desserts or buy fresh vegetable or fish from the vendors on the bridge. What is more, visitors coming to Hanoi said that Long Bien Bridge is the best place to look at the sunset and taking some nice photos.
  3. Dong Xuan Market
    15m · Admission ticket included
    Dong Xuan market was founded in 1889 by the French and named after its location. At that time, the market was a favorable trading place, especially after the French built Long Bien bridge. You might not know, every ancient street in Hanoi was named after their original business, which were then being removed to Dong Xuan market under the French domination. That is the reason why all of the names are started with the word Hang (means Product) and the word following is what they are selling: Hang Ca sells Fish (Ca means Fish) etc.
  4. Old Quarter
    1h · Admission ticket included
    Explore the highlights and hidden gems of Hanoi’s Old Quarter on this private guided walking tour. Highlights include a visit to the Bach Ma Temple, one of the oldest in Hanoi, the historic Long Bien Bridge, the bustling Dong Xuan Market, and more. Along the way, learn about Hanoi’s history, culture, and food from your local guide.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

For a smooth start to your tour, please arrive at our meeting point 5-10 minutes before the scheduled time. Look for our host in front of the yellow theater building at 72 Hang Bac Street.
Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mSr5pBsHjC9CA2DA9

End point

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.8 (69)
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Operated by OneTrip With Local · Booked through Viator
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