What to See in Hanoi: Old Quarter, Lakes, and Street Food

Hanoi is a city of layers: ancient temples tucked between narrow alleyways, tree-lined boulevards from the French colonial era, and lakes that mirror both neon lights and timeless pagodas. If you are planning your first visit, three elements will define your experience: the maze-like Old Quarter, the serene lakes scattered across the city, and the unforgettable world of Vietnamese street food.

This guide explores what to see in Hanoi through those three lenses, helping you design an itinerary that balances culture, architecture, and cuisine while still leaving room for unplanned discoveries. From early-morning pho by the roadside to sunset strolls around Hoan Kiem Lake, you will find ideas here to turn a short city break into a rich, memorable journey.

Why Hanoi Captivates First-Time Visitors

Hanoi is not a city you simply see; it is a city you feel. Motorbikes stream around you like water, vendors call out from low plastic stools, and the smoky aroma of grilled meat mingles with the sweetness of strong iced coffee. Yet just a few steps away, you can sit in silence by a lake, watching locals practice tai chi or cast fishing lines into still water.

Three areas bring this contrast to life more than any others:

• The Old Quarter, where centuries-old trade streets and traditional tube houses share space with modern cafés.
• The lakes, acting as the city’s lungs, offering calm, shade, and a taste of local life.
• Street food, which is less a list of dishes and more a daily ritual that structures the rhythm of the city.

Understanding what to see in Hanoi starts with exploring these three pillars in depth. The following sections will walk you through the must-see places, hidden corners, and practical tips to make the most of your time.

The Old Quarter: Heartbeat of Hanoi

The Old Quarter (Hoan Kiem district) is often the first stop for visitors and, for many, the neighborhood they remember most vividly. This compact area north of Hoan Kiem Lake is a living museum of Hanoi’s commercial past, packed with shops, temples, and food stalls, all connected by a dense grid of narrow streets.

A Labyrinth of 36 Ancient Streets

The Old Quarter is famously known for its “36 streets,” each historically associated with a craft or trade. While modern commerce has altered many of them, the underlying logic remains: whole streets still specialize in one type of product. Wandering through this maze is one of the essential things to do in Hanoi.

Some emblematic streets to explore include:

• Hang Bac – Traditionally the street of silver merchants, today a mix of jewelry shops, travel agencies, and guesthouses.
• Hang Gai – Once dedicated to hemp and rope, now known for silk, clothing boutiques, and tailor shops.
• Hang Dao – A busy shopping corridor with clothing stalls and a lively night market on weekends.
• Ma May – Lined with restaurants, cafés, and one of the best-preserved old houses in the quarter.

Do not worry about following a strict route. The best way to experience the Old Quarter is to let yourself get mildly lost, following whatever catches your eye: an incense-scented doorway, a fruit vendor balancing baskets, or the smoky allure of skewers grilling over charcoal.

Architectural Gems and Ancient Houses

Amid the chaos, the Old Quarter hides elegant examples of traditional “tube houses” and colonial facades. Tube houses take their name from their proportions: narrow at the street front but stretching far back, often with internal courtyards to bring light and air into the living spaces.

Look for:

• Traditional houses open to visitors – Some preserved homes showcase period furniture, ancestral altars, and layout styles dating back generations.
• Shophouses with wooden shutters – Many Old Quarter buildings combine a shop at street level with living quarters upstairs, topped by elegant balconies.
• Hidden courtyards and passageways – Narrow, unassuming entrances often lead to quiet inner spaces where daily life unfolds away from the main streets.

Architecture is one of the reasons the Old Quarter is among the most photogenic areas to see in Hanoi. Bring a camera, but also take time to observe the details without a lens: peeling paint, tiled roofs, and lanterns swaying gently above the traffic.

Temples, Pagodas, and Spiritual Corners

In between shops and cafes, you will stumble upon small temples and pagodas, often tucked behind ornate gates. These spaces remind you that the Old Quarter is not only a commercial center but also a spiritual and cultural one.

As you explore what to see in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, step inside any open courtyard that draws you in. You may find locals lighting incense sticks, quietly praying, or simply sitting in the shade. It is a peaceful counterpoint to the honking and bargaining just outside the gate.

Old Quarter by Day vs. Night

The atmosphere in the Old Quarter shifts dramatically from day to night, making it worth visiting multiple times at different hours.

• By day – Street vendors push carts loaded with flowers and fruit. Small workshops repair motorbikes, and shopkeepers arrange goods on the sidewalk. This is the time to visit markets, snap photos, and browse boutiques.
• By evening – Neon signs flicker on, lanterns glow, and the air fills with the aroma of grilled meats, pho, and fried snacks. Certain streets partially close to vehicles, transforming into a more pedestrian-friendly area. Cafés, bars, and night stalls come alive.

To truly understand what to see in Hanoi, plan to walk the Old Quarter at least twice: a calm morning loop and a more energetic evening tour. Each reveals a different personality of the same neighborhood.

Hoan Kiem Lake: The Symbolic Center of Hanoi

If the Old Quarter is the city’s heartbeat, Hoan Kiem Lake is its calm, reflective eye. Located at the southern edge of the Old Quarter, this lake is central to most itineraries and a natural orientation point when exploring Hanoi.

Strolling the Lakeside Promenade

One of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do in Hanoi is to walk the loop around Hoan Kiem Lake. Shaded by mature trees and lined with benches, the path offers a welcome break from the dense traffic nearby.

Along the way, you will see:

• Elderly residents practicing tai chi in the early morning mist.
• Couples and families posing for photos, especially near the iconic red bridge.
• Street performers and artists on weekends and evenings when parts of the surrounding streets become pedestrian-only.

Walk slowly, sit for a moment, and absorb the mix of tranquility and urban energy. Hoan Kiem is the most accessible lake when you are based near the Old Quarter, making it a natural starting point for understanding what to see in Hanoi.

Ngoc Son Temple and the Red Bridge

On a small island at the northern end of Hoan Kiem Lake stands Ngoc Son Temple, reached via the photogenic red-painted Huc Bridge. The temple pays homage to several historical and spiritual figures and houses artifacts and altars that offer insight into Vietnamese beliefs and legends.

Even if you do not step inside, the view of the bridge at sunrise or sunset, reflected in the lake, is one of the classic images of Hanoi. It is a reminder of how water, spirituality, and urban life intertwine in the city’s identity.

Weekend Walking Streets and Local Life

On weekends, the avenues around Hoan Kiem Lake often transform into pedestrian zones, creating a festival-like atmosphere. Families bring children to play games, teenagers rehearse dance routines, and street musicians set up small performances.

Joining this gentle chaos is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Hanoi, especially if you are traveling with children or simply want to people-watch. It is also an ideal moment to grab an iced coffee from a nearby café and sit by the water, letting the energy of the city wash over you.

Beyond the Center: West Lake and Other Scenic Lakes

While Hoan Kiem Lake sits at the heart of Hanoi, the city is dotted with many other lakes that deserve a place on your list of what to see in Hanoi. They offer space, views, and a chance to see life away from the most touristed streets.

West Lake (Ho Tay): Wide Horizons and Sunset Views

West Lake is the largest body of water in Hanoi and feels like a world apart from the tight alleyways of the Old Quarter. Encircled by a road nearly 17 kilometers long, it offers expansive views, breezy promenades, and a mix of traditional pagodas and modern cafés.

Highlights around West Lake include:

• Lakeside cafés and rooftop terraces – Ideal for watching the sun set over the water with a drink in hand.
• Quiet residential lanes – Home to expats and locals, these streets offer a slower-paced glimpse of everyday life.
• Cycling and walking routes – Renting a bicycle or taking a long walk along parts of the lake is a refreshing way to spend half a day.

If your schedule allows, plan at least one afternoon or evening at West Lake. It expands your understanding of what to see in Hanoi beyond the historic center, introducing a more spacious, contemporary side of the city.

Tran Quoc Pagoda: History on the Water

On a small peninsula that juts into West Lake, you will find Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam. Its slender multi-tiered tower, statues, and courtyard trees make it a peaceful stop, especially in the early morning when the light is soft and the crowds are thinner.

The setting—surrounded by water and framed by the lake’s horizon—creates excellent photo opportunities and a chance to step into a spiritual space that predates much of the modern city. It is a key stop if you are interested in the religious and historical dimension of Hanoi’s lakes.

Ho Truc Bach and Smaller Lakes

Next to West Lake lies Truc Bach Lake, smaller and more intimate but equally interesting to explore. The narrow strip of land between the two lakes is lined with cafes and restaurants, some offering views across both bodies of water.

Elsewhere in Hanoi, you will find smaller lakes with residential neighborhoods around them, each with its own microcosm of vendors, fishermen, and lakeside benches. Even if you do not remember every name, wandering around these quiet corners will deepen your understanding of the city’s geography and rhythm.

Street Food in Hanoi: Where Every Corner Is a Kitchen

No guide to what to see in Hanoi would be complete without a deep dive into street food. In Hanoi, eating is a public act that unfolds in every alley and on every sidewalk. Low plastic stools, small metal tables, and steaming pots form an essential part of the city’s landscape.

Morning Rituals: Pho and Beyond

Mornings in Hanoi are shaped by the scent of broth. Pho—the iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken—is widely regarded as the city’s unofficial breakfast. Watching locals huddle over steaming bowls before work is as much a visual as a culinary experience.

But pho is far from the only option. As you explore what to see and eat in Hanoi at daybreak, you might encounter:

• Banh cuon – Delicate, steamed rice rolls filled with minced meat and mushrooms, topped with fried shallots and served with dipping sauce.
• Xoi – Sticky rice topped with combinations of meats, egg, mung beans, or peanuts; simple, filling, and popular with commuters.
• Bun rieu or bun oc – Noodle soups featuring tomato-based broths with crab or snail, often prepared in small sidewalk kitchens.

To experience Hanoi like a local, set your alarm early at least once and wander the Old Quarter or nearby streets between 6 and 8 a.m., following the crowds to wherever the plastic stools gather.

Midday Favorites: Noodles, Rice, and Quick Bites

As the day warms up, food stalls adjust their menus accordingly. Lunchtime in Hanoi is fast-paced but unhurried—you might see office workers in neat shirts perched on tiny chairs, savoring a quick meal before heading back to work.

Look out for:

• Bun cha – Grilled pork patties and slices served in a bowl of tangy broth, accompanied by fresh herbs and rice noodles. This is one of the must-try dishes in Hanoi.
• Com binh dan – “Common rice” eateries where you choose from a display of dishes—stir-fried vegetables, braised meats, tofu, and more—served over rice.
• Banh mi – Vietnam’s famous sandwich, filled with combinations of cold cuts, pate, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, and herbs.

In terms of what to see in Hanoi at midday, watching the choreography of a busy street-food stand is a show in itself: the grillmaster flipping skewers, the vendor assembling bowls in seconds, the constant dance of motorbikes pulling over for takeaway orders.

Evening Feasts: Night Markets and Street Corners

After sunset, Hanoi’s street food scene truly comes into its own. Neon signs reflect off stainless-steel pots, and the smoky aroma of grilled seafood, skewers, and hotpot rises from nearly every corner, especially in and around the Old Quarter.

Essential evening experiences include:

• Night market stalls – On certain streets, vendors set up temporary kitchens selling everything from skewers and noodles to sweet desserts.
• Seafood corners – Tables covered in plates of clams, snails, prawns, and fish, often cooked to order and shared among friends and families.
• Hotpot (lau) – Communal pots of simmering broth in which diners cook vegetables, meat, and seafood themselves, ideal for cooler evenings.

Even if you are not particularly hungry, wandering through these areas will give you a rich sensory impression of what to see and feel in Hanoi after dark: laughter, clinking glasses, and the constant hiss of food meeting hot oil.

Coffee Culture: Between Tradition and Trends

Hanoi’s coffee culture deserves its own spotlight. Coffee shops fill every small alley and major boulevard, playing a central role in social life. They range from minimalist modern spaces to timeworn, dimly lit institutions with wooden chairs and vintage decor.

Some coffee experiences to seek out:

• Ca phe sua da – Strong Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk over ice, a comforting classic at any time of day.
• Egg coffee – A creamy, meringue-like coffee drink made with whipped egg yolk, sugar, and coffee, often served in small cups over a bowl of warm water to keep it hot.
• Sidewalk coffee stools – Tiny roadside setups where locals linger for hours, chatting and people-watching.

When planning what to see in Hanoi, treat cafes not only as fuel stops but as observation posts. They are perfect for resting between walks around the Old Quarter or by the lakes, giving you time to digest both your meals and your impressions.

Street Food Etiquette and Safety Tips

For many visitors, street food is both a highlight and a concern. With a few basic guidelines, you can enjoy Hanoi’s culinary scene with confidence:

• Follow the crowds – Busy stalls with a fast turnover of food are generally a good sign of freshness and local trust.
• Observe cleanliness – Look at how food is stored and handled. A bit of chaos is normal, but basic hygiene should still be present.
• Ask for smaller portions – If you want to sample many dishes, order modestly sized servings to avoid getting full too quickly.
• Be open but cautious – If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, learn key phrases or write them down in Vietnamese to show vendors.

Street food is central to understanding what to see and do in Hanoi. With some awareness and curiosity, it can become the most memorable part of your trip.

Suggested Itineraries: Combining Old Quarter, Lakes, and Street Food

To help you organize what to see in Hanoi into a coherent plan, here are two sample itineraries that focus on the Old Quarter, lakes, and street food while leaving space for your own discoveries.

One-Day Snapshot of Hanoi

If you only have one full day in Hanoi, you can still experience the city’s essence by combining walks, food, and lake time.

1. Early Morning: Pho and Hoan Kiem Lake

   Start your day with a bowl of pho at a busy street stall near the Old Quarter. After breakfast, walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, watching locals exercise and the city slowly wake up.

2. Late Morning: Old Quarter Exploration

   Wander through streets like Hang Bac, Hang Gai, and Ma May, stopping to peek into temples and old houses. Take a coffee break at a cafe with a view of the rooftops or a bustling intersection.

3. Afternoon: West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda

   Head to West Lake for a change of scenery. Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, then walk or ride along a section of the lakeside road. Stop at a lakeside cafe to rest and enjoy the breeze.

4. Evening: Street Food and Night Atmosphere

   Return to the Old Quarter after sunset. Sample bun cha or banh mi for dinner, then stroll through the night market area and soak up the lively atmosphere.

This one-day plan balances some of the most iconic things to see in Hanoi with simple pleasures: walking, eating, and watching daily life unfold.

Two to Three Days: A Deeper Dive

With two or three days in Hanoi, you can move at a more relaxed pace and explore the city’s lakes and food scene in greater depth.

• Day 1 – Focus on the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk different routes through the 36 streets, visit a traditional house and a temple, and enjoy street food at breakfast and dinner.
• Day 2 – Dedicate more time to West Lake and Tran Quoc Pagoda. Explore surrounding neighborhoods, try a lakeside restaurant, and sample regional noodle dishes or hotpot in the evening.
• Day 3 (optional) – Use this day to revisit your favorite corners or discover smaller lakes and less-known streets. Spend time in cafes, shop for souvenirs, and try any street food you missed on previous days.

By spreading your visit across several days, you will see how Hanoi’s rhythm changes between weekdays and weekends, mornings and nights. You will also gain more confidence crossing streets, ordering food, and navigating the city, making every walk more enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Exploring Hanoi on Foot

Hanoi is most rewarding when explored at street level, but it can be overwhelming at first. These practical tips will help you move comfortably between the Old Quarter, lakes, and food areas.

Navigating Traffic and Crosswalks

One of the first lessons of Hanoi is learning how to cross the street amidst a steady flow of motorbikes and cars. Traffic rarely stops completely, but it usually flows around pedestrians who move predictably.

• Walk steadily – Avoid sudden changes in speed or direction. Drivers anticipate your movement and adjust their path.
• Make eye contact when possible – A quick glance can help confirm that a motorbike has seen you.
• Start small – Practice on less busy streets before tackling major intersections.

Within a day or two, crossing streets becomes less intimidating and more of a routine part of seeing Hanoi up close.

What to Wear and Carry

Comfort is key when you plan to walk extensively through the Old Quarter and around the lakes.

• Comfortable footwear – Pavements can be uneven, with occasional puddles or obstacles, so supportive shoes are essential.
• Light layers – Depending on the season, Hanoi can be humid, cool, or hot. Wearing layers allows you to adjust as temperatures change between morning and night.
• Small daypack – Use it to carry water, sunscreen, a light rain jacket, and perhaps a reusable shopping bag.

Preparing thoughtfully for the weather and walking conditions will allow you to enjoy more of what there is to see in Hanoi without discomfort.

Money, Payments, and Local Customs

Most street food vendors and small shops accept cash only, though modern cafes and hotels often accept cards. Keep small notes handy to pay for food, drinks, and short taxi or ride-hailing trips.

• Agree on prices – For taxis or certain market purchases, confirm the price before committing.
• Be polite and patient – A calm attitude and a smile go a long way when navigating language barriers or misunderstandings.
• Respect local routines – Many residents wake up early and rest at midday. Observing these rhythms can help you choose the best times to explore different areas.

These small gestures will make interactions smoother and leave you with a positive impression of both Hanoi’s people and its places.

Why Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Lakes, and Street Food Belong Together

When travelers think about what to see in Hanoi, they often list the Old Quarter, various lakes, and street food as separate items. In reality, they are deeply connected threads in the city’s fabric.

• The Old Quarter shows how commerce, architecture, and daily life have evolved over centuries.
• The lakes offer breathing spaces where locals and visitors slow down, reflect, and gather.
• Street food expresses Hanoi’s creativity and hospitality, transforming every corner into a potential dining room.

Exploring all three together reveals Hanoi as more than a list of attractions. It becomes a living, breathing city where every walk, every bowl of noodles, and every lakeside bench tells a story. Whether you stay for one day or several, these experiences will shape your lasting memory of Vietnam’s capital.