Hanoi is one of the top places to visit in Vietnam – and one of our favorite cities worldwide. The best way to navigate this riveting destination is on foot, so we created 5 easy-to-follow Free Hanoi Walking Tours!
The historic Hanoi Old Quarter is both bewitching and bewildering. Iconic sights, fascinating neighborhoods and poignant museums lie within or just beyond the Old Town.
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Each Hanoi street is a fascinating scene of motorcycles, shops and local cuisine. There is also seldom a moment of silence here. The intense sound is perpetual, mimicking the relentless motion of the city itself.
About Our Hanoi Free Walking Tours
Hanoi is an old city and history has left its mark. From ancient temples and colonial architecture to war memorials and the shop-lined streets of the Old Quarter, our Hanoi tours explore them all.
These Self-Guided Hanoi Walking Tours are designed to introduce you to different sections of the city. Rather than trying to tackle them all at once in the often staggering heat, we created 5 separate walks.
That said, each Hanoi walking tour can be easily connected to the next. In fact, ambitious travelers could combine all 5 into a full-day.
Our 5 Hanoi sightseeing tours each focus on a different area and include the top places to visit in each.
- 1: Old Quarter Hanoi Sights
- 2: Hoan Kiem Lake and French Quarter
- 3: Traditional Guild Streets of Hanoi
- 4: Iconic Hanoi Places
- 5: Culture and History Hanoi Walking Route
What You Will Need For DIY Hanoi Tours
Don’t head out on any of our Hanoi, Vietnam Self-Guided Tours without being prepared!
Connectivity
For each Free Hanoi Walking Tour we include maps for directions. In order to use them, you will need a reliable connection!
You can inquire about adjusting your plan to include international data for Vietnam or buy an eSIM/SIM if your phone in unlocked.
For people traveling in groups, you might want to consider using a mobile hotspot. We’ve used GlocalMe in Vietnam, which worked great and allowed us to connect up to ten devices at one time.
Proper Shoes
When navigating the streets of Vietnam, it is important to wear comfortable travel shoes. For city walking, I like these by Columbia and Kris prefers Sanuk.
Wrap or Sarong
Our Hanoi Walking Tours include several temples – which requires appropriate attire. Shoulders and knees need to be covered. We recommend carrying a lightweight wrap to cover up.
Weather Gear & Day Bag
You should prepare for both sunshine – with sunscreen and a wide-brimmed travel hat…as well as for rain – with a packable raincoat and umbrella. You will also want a day pack to organize and secure all your essential everyday travel items.
Travel Camera
Snapping photos with a phone is risky business, as your device can easily be snatched. We carried our Canon Rebel with a sturdy neck strap.
Grab Taxi App
Walking around Hanoi is intriguing…but also exhausting! To get to and from the starting and ending points of our Hanoi Walking Tours, we recommend using the Grab App.
Rides only cost a few dollars – and allows you to save energy for seeing the sights and temporarily cool off. Download and set it up before your Vietnam trip!
Opening Hours
Our Hanoi walks include several spots that can be entered and we have tried our best to indicate hours of operation. However, these things change often in Vietnam and are difficult to verify!
Walking in Hanoi: Synchronized Chaos
Before you set off on your Self-Guided Hanoi Free Tour, it’s important to understand a little bit about the city.
In the heart of the Hanoi Old Town scooters buzz in every direction. Girls sit side-saddle with sparkly high heeled feet delicately crossed at the ankles. Families of four or five – and sometimes six – share one bike.
Cars, buses, bicycles and walkers all mingle together. And always there is the honking of horns. It’s like a never-ending line of ants marching up and down the road.
The sidewalks is no less chaotic. Boxes of fresh produce spill from shop doors. Simple pop-ups squeeze into any spot available. Low, plastic stools are scattered around street-corner kitchens and beer bars.
Hanging above is a tangled web of electrical wires, a fitting jumble to the mess below. The constant motion is both captivating and intimidating.
Don’t stress! On our step-by-step Hanoi walking tours, we’ll do our best to keep you from feeling too overwhelmed.
Tips for Crossing the Street in Hanoi
While out exploring, you do need to consistently pay attention to the surroundings. When you cross the street, walk slowly and steadily without changing direction or making sudden movements.
Make eye contact with the drivers of on coming motorbikes and don’t break your stride – they will go around you. Sights, sounds and scents will surely vie for your attention, but keep your wits about you!
5 Self Guided Hanoi Walking Tours for Free
Each of our 5 walking tours for Hanoi include a route map, pin drop and additional information. So, lace up your shoes and let’s go explore!
WALK 1: Old Quarter Hanoi Walking Tour
The Old Quarter is home to charming-but-chaotic streets, enchanting historic sights, pungent markets and a serene lake.
Map for walking directions. These are marked in Red on the Hanoi Map of Sights at the end of the article.
Dong Xuan Market
MAP. Open daily from 6am-6pm. This massive hall was built by the French in 1889 and ranks as the largest market in Hanoi.
The 3-story structure is a hive of activity, with vendors selling everything from clothes to food to household goods…with plenty of counterfeit items, too.
O Quan Chuong City Gate (Hanoi Old East Gate)
MAP. A must see on your free tour, the East Old City Gate is a relic of the past. The last remaining gate of the ancient Thang Long Citadeal, it was built in 1749.
It is one of 21 original entrances to the city and was named for an army chief. The Hanoi East Gate consists of three arched openings and a 2-story watch tower.
Bach Ma: White Horse Temple
MAP. Open 9am-5:30pm, closed Monday. It is claimed that Bach Ma Temple is the oldest in Hanoi city center.
It was built by Emperor Ly Thai To in the 9th century to honor a white horse that guided him to the spot where he was destined to build Hanoi.
The temple was renovated in 18th century and contains a shrine to Confucius (which was implemented in 1839).
Hang Bac Temple
MAP. Because of the modest entrance at 102 Hang Bac, it’s easy to pass right by this temple without even realizing it. Those who seek out this Hanoi hidden gem, however, are treated to a dazzling and colorful altar.
Hanoi Ancient House
MAP. Open 8am-5pm daily. This classic Vietnamese home dates to the late 20th century and is a popular stop on Hanoi history tours.
The well-preserved house features traditional architecture and was once the residence of a wealthy merchant family. You are free to tour the space on your own; information pamphlets in English are provided.
Pho Gia Ngu Street
MAP. This busy street is lined with shops that spill out onto the sidewalks. Popular with locals, vendors sell fresh herbs, live seafood and prepared meals.
This ‘real life’ bazaar truly delivers and can bring on sensory overload during walking tours of Hanoi!
Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
MAP. This theater was established in 1969 and can accommodate 300 guests for the multiple daily shows (tickets required). The entertaining performances are based on Vietnamese folklore and culture.
Den Ba Kieu Temple
MAP. Open daily 8:30am-4:30pm, midday break 11:30am-1:30pm. This small historic temple sits inconspicuously along the busy road. It dates to the 17th century and was once part of the Hoan Kiem Lake waterfront.
Ngoc Son Temple and Huc Bridge
MAP. Open 7am-7pm daily, until 10pm most weekends. This important Hanoi temple sits on the small Jade Island at the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake.
Accessed via the elegant Cầu Thê Húc Bridge, Ngoc Son was built in the 19th century and is listed as a National Monument.
Many people come here to pray and light joss sticks, while others simply take in the serene atmosphere…and to get a look at the legendary 250 kg stuffed turtle encased in glass.
Hoan Kiem Lake (The Lake of the Returned Sword)
MAP. This oval lake sits in the middle of the city, surrounded by manicured gardens and comes complete with a legend that dates to the mid-15th century.
According to the tale, Heaven sent a sword to Emperor Le Thai To in order to drive the Chinese from Vietnam.
After succeeding in doing so, a giant turtle took the sword to the bottom of the lake to return it to its divine owners.
There is a second island in the middle of the lake, known as Turtle Islet. An ancient stone tower called Thap Rua – or Turtle Tower – stands on it.
You’ve completed our first Ha Noi Tour! Take a rest and consider continuing on to the Hanoi French Quarter.
Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour Map
WALK 2: French Quarter of Hanoi
Home to the Opera House, high-end malls, wider sidewalks and tree-lined streets, the French Quarter is distinctly different from the rest of Hanoi.
Map for walking directions. These sights are marked in Orange on the Hanoi Map at the end of the post.
Ly Thai To Statue
MAP. The first king of the Ly Dynasty, Ly Thai To ruled from the year 1009 until 1028. As the founder of Thang Long (now Hanoi) in the year 1010, he is a much-celebrated figure in the history of Vietnam.
Dien Hong Park (Vườn hoa con Cóc)
MAP. This small park was established in 1899 as a community gathering spot. Originally called Place Chavassieux, the name was changed to Dien Hong in 1945.
However, due to the 100-year-old fountain’s water-spouting frogs, locals call it Vuon Hoa Con Coc – or Garden of the Toads.
Hanoi Opera House
MAP. The centerpiece of the French Quarter, the grand Opera House was built in the early 1900s and designed in the same style as Palais Garnier in Paris.
This landmark building has seen a slew of performances – both Vietnamese and international – as well as political demonstrations and fighting during the Battle of Hanoi.
Trang Tien Plaza
MAP. This 7-story luxury mall features top-end fashion, well-known designers and even has gloved doormen.
We recommend stepping inside even if you are not up for shopping. The interior is gloriously air-conditioned and is one of the places to visit in Hanoi for a quiet escape from the chaos.
Hoa Phong Tower
MAP. Originally part of a larger complex called Bao An Pagoda, Hoa Phong Tower is the last piece that stands. It has four low arches and unicorns decorate the columns.
Top Tip: As you make your way around the south end of the lake, consider stopping at one of the cafes along the route. Conifer Bon Mua sits besides the water, while S’Patisserie is an ideal choice for cake and coffee.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral
MAP. Standing stoically among Vietnamese temples and shrines is St. Joseph’s Cathedral. With sky-high bell towers, it dominates the small square.
The neo-Gothic church – built in 1886 – is open to visitors. Inside, sunshine filters through stained-glass windows.
King Le Thai To Monument
MAP. The next stop is a quiet and peaceful retreat on the west side of Hoan Kiem, the King Le Thai To Monument. It’s situated in a garden setting – and much more understated than the statue across the lake.
Pro Tip: Le Thai To and Ly Thai To are one in the same.
Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
MAP. Located on the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc is a popular gathering spot – especially on weekends when it is closed to traffic at night.
Centered around a fountain, people come to hang out, eat, drink and go to the Hanoi Night Market. You can even get in a workout. Look for groups practicing Zumba…and join in if you have the energy!
Old Town Garden Café
MAP. The last stop on our Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Tour is at Vuon Pho Co Café – or Old Town Garden Café.
The entrance can be a little tricky to find, but it’s worth the effort for the rooftop views. Their Lime Soda is the perfect post-walk refreshment!
Congratulations, you’ve made it to the end of our Hanoi French Quarter Tour!
Hanoi French Quarter Walking Tour Map
WALK 3: Hanoi Guild Streets Walking Tour
Historically, each of these 36 streets were dedicated to a single, specific trade and named for that craft or item.
For example, Hang Ga translates to Chicken (Ga) Merchandise (Hang) – or Chicken Merchandise Street…and all the shops here sold poultry.
Map for walking directions. These sights are marked in Green on the map and the end of the article.
Pro Tip: Because this walk is all about discovering the streets – not specific sights – we provide written step-by-step walking directions from one guild street to the next.
The 36 Guild Streets
Among the traditional shop houses with low sloped roofs, temples are nestled in between. The communal places of worship were originally built for the tradesmen.
On some streets, the universal craft is still prevalent; all shops on one lane sell jewelry and, on another, children’s toys.
However, as current times (and the economy) have encouraged change, many of these streets no longer stick to the trade for which they were named.
Temples have been demolished and dilapidated storefronts have been renovated using more modern architectural styles.
Be that as it may, walking through the historic district is enthralling. The guild streets are still occupied by merchants and it’s fun to seek out the lanes to see how they have – or have not – changed.
Start your Hanoi Old Quarter Guild Street Walk at the intersection of Luong Van Can and Hang Gai.
Hang Gai
Once part of the city’s silk trade, Hang Gai features numerous silk shops, tailors and elegant evening wear stores. Walk west on Hang Gai to Hang Hom and turn right (north).
Hang Hom
Hang Hom Street was historically occupied by box makers, who designed coffers and trunks. Walk north to Hang Quat and turn right (east).
Hang Quat
Known as the Street of Fans, another popular trade here was ornate altars and Buddha statues. Walk to east to Luong Van Can and turn left (north).
Luong Van Can
Rather than being named for a trade, Luong Van Can is named after a famous educator. Today, however, it is known as Toy Street. Walk north to Hang Bo and turn left (west).
Hang Bo
Hang Bo Street is home to numerous basket shops and tools to create bamboo products, although the street seems to be evolving. Walk west on Hang Bo to Hang Thuoc and turn right (north).
Hang Thuoc
Long known for the tinsmiths that occupied the shops, it also has mirror shops, conical hats, lamps and candlesticks. More recently, places started selling ‘fresh beer’, or Bia Hoi. Walk north to Lan Ong and turn right (east).
Lan Ong
This small street is dedicated to ancient herbal remedies and traditional medicine. It is named for a well-regarded Vietnamese doctor. Walk east to Cha Ca and turn left (north).
Cha Ca
Named for the popular Hanoi fish dish, the street has several restaurants serving it up. We liked the atmosphere at Cha Ca Thang Long. Walk north on Cha Ca to Hang Ca and turn left (west).
Hang Ca
Although named Fish Street, Hang Ca is now home to numerous sandwich shops, including the extremely popular Bahn Mi 25. Walk west to Thuoc Bac and turn right (north).
Thuoc Bac
The section of this street was once called Hang Khoa (Lock Merchandise), then Hang Sat (Iron Merchandise) and was home to blacksmiths and locksmiths.
Today, many of the shops sell items typically found in hardware stores. Walk north to Hang Ma and turn right (east).
Hang Ma
Hang Ma is one of the most interesting and colorful of Hanoi’s Old Quarter 36 Streets. Vendors here have been selling paper votives for hundreds of years.
According to Buddhist traditions, joss paper – which resemble real-life items, like cars, cell phones and paper money – are burned as offerings to the deceased.
Walk east, crossing over Dong Xuan Street, and continue east on Hang Chieu.
Hang Chieu
Traditionally, Hang Chieu was the street where straw mats and ropes were sold.
Go east to Hang Giay, turn right (south) and follow the street where it curves east, changing to Luong Ngoc Quyen, and walk east to Ta Hien.
Ta Hien
Best known as the Original Bia Hoi Corner, this is still the most famous drinking street in Hanoi.
Although rather tame by day, after dark the intersection is clogged with low plastic stools and lots of thirsty tourists. Walk south on Ta Hien Street to Hang Bac.
Hang Bac
Lined with jewelry shops, Hang Bac originated as silversmith street. Although several places now use modern tools (or make gravestones for some reason), there are a few old-school hold-outs.
Tucked amongst it all is Hang Bac Temple – also called Dinh Kim Ngan – which is dedicated to jewelers and decorated in silver carvings. Most of the Guild Streets once had a temple for their craft, but this is one of the few remaining.
This ends our 36 Guild Streets Tour Hanoi. If you’d like, continue on our Hanoi Iconic Sights Walk.
Old Town Hanoi Map of Streets
WALK 4: Iconic Hanoi Walking Tour
Some of the most iconic sights in Hanoi are outside of the Old Quarter. Shall we go have a look? Map for walking directions. These spots are marked in Blue on the overview map at the end.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel
MAP. Open daily 8am-5pm. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Imperial Citadel in Hanoi is a must-see attraction.
The complex is comprised of multiple historic buildings that were constructed over a span of 10 centuries. The first structure on the site was built in 1010 as the royal palace for the new capital.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the war bunkers.
One Pillar Pagoda
MAP. One of the most iconic temples in Hanoi, One Pillar Pagoda resembles a lotus blossom – a Buddhist symbol of purity.
Built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, it was the site of many religious celebrations. However, the original temple was destroyed in 1954 by the French and only rebuilt in the 1960s.
Important Info: The next two sights are accessed from a single security checkpoint on the south side of Ba Dinh Square.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
MAP. Only open from 7:30am-11:30am, closed Monday and Friday. This dominating edifice houses the embalmed remains of the revered Vietnamese leader, Ho Chi Minh.
To enter, you need to be dressed appropriately (modest attire; shoulders and legs completely covered).
Hanoi Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House
MAP. Open 7am-4pm, Monday-Friday, access to the grounds only. Built in the early 1900s, the Presidential Palace is a supreme example of classic French Colonial architecture.
It originally served as the residence of the French Governor of Indochina up until 1954.
During Ho Chi Minh’s presidency, he refused to live in the palatial building and instead built a traditional, simple Vietnamese stilt house on the grounds where he resided until his death.
Quan Thanh Temple
MAP. Open 8am-5pm daily. This 11th century Taoist temple is one of the Four Sacred Temples in Hanoi. Inside the main shrine, you can find the bronze statue of Tran Vu, which is considered a Vietnamese masterpiece.
Pro Tip: Before continuing on, consider a quick stop at Highlands Coffee Truc Bach. The Starbucks-esque coffeeshop is a popular Vietnamese chain and this location has superb lake views.
Truc Bach Lake and American War Memorial
MAP. Once part of West Lake, Truc Bach was separated by a dike in the 17th century as a means to raise fish.
The lake is best known as the place where US Navy pilot and future Senator John McCain’s plane was shot down in 1967.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
MAP. Open 7:30am-5pm daily; closed from 11am to 1:30pm. This 6th century house of worship is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi.
Originally located on the banks of the Red River, it was moved to Golden Fish Island in Ho Tay (West Lake) in the year 1615.
Numerous shrines grace the complex, however, the most astounding feature is the tall pagoda (renovated in 2004) that holds the ashes of many celebrated monks.
Truc Bach District
MAP. The Truc Bach neighborhood is the perfect enclave to escape the madness of the rest of Hanoi. The unassuming district is laid back and filled with charm.
It is also the birthplace of two iconic Hanoi dishes: Pho Cuon (beef, lettuce and herbs rolled in a rice noodle sheet and sauce) and Pho Chien Phong (puffy deep-fried rice noodles served with beef, lettuce, herbs and gravy).
Most restaurants on Truc Bach Island (on the east side of the small lake), have both items on their menu – but we recommend eating at Pho Cuon Huong Mai.
Cua Bac Church (Roman Catholic Church of Martyrs)
MAP. Open 7am-8pm, closed Sunday. This bright yellow church was built in the Art Deco style in 1932 by the French.
The main features are the bell tower and stained-glass windows. In 2006, President George W Bush visited the church during an official visit to Vietnam.
This ends your Hanoi Walking Tour of Iconic Sights! To continue, travel by Grab Taxi to our final walk: Hanoi Culture and History.
Iconic Sights Hanoi Walking Tour Map
WALK 5: Culture & History of Hanoi Walking Tour
Vietnamese culture is captivating. On this walk you’ll learn more about the intriguing city and the story of the nation.
Map for walking directions. These are marked in Purple on our complete Hanoi Map of Sights at the article’s end.
Cong Café Hanoi
The coffee culture in Vietnam is unmissable. There is no shortage of coffeeshops in Hanoi, but Cong Café (Cong Ca Phe) is one of the best places to go for a caffeine fix.
They have multiple locations and feature classic Communist memorabilia and décor throughout all of them.
Find one closest to you and order their signature drink: Coconut Iced Coffee – it’s delicious and refreshing! Then make your way on foot or by Grab to…
Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature)
MAP. Open daily 8am-5pm. Dedicated to Confucius, this is the historic center of education in Vietnam and was the country’s first national university.
Built in the year 1070, the meticulous grounds feature 5 courtyards, pavilions, halls and stelae bearing inscriptions. Fun Fact: The Temple of Literature appears on the 100,000 VDN bill!
Train Street Hanoi
MAP. Train Street is a perfect example of the entrepreneurial spirit of the Vietnamese people…and the Instagram-crazy world we live in.
Since 1902, trains have rattled down these tracks along the western edge of the Old City. With limited space, houses were built alongside the rails, just inches from the massive locomotives.
Initially, living here was undesirable, but then tourists started flocking to the tracks to capture the trains barreling through the narrow neighborhood.
It wasn’t long until homeowners started capitalizing on this peculiar fascination with something they have always accepted as a way of life.
The clever residents converted their doorsteps into cafes and opened their balconies as makeshift bars. For visitors, it was thrilling…for locals it was cash-flow.
UPDATE: Predictably, the government shut down the small enterprises and the “street” itself in 2019 and again in 2022.
However, as of 2026, you’re allowed to enter the area if ‘invited’ by a resident (and, of course, buy something from your new best friend’s store). There are also rumors that the entire line may be re-routed at some point.
Quan Su Pagoda
MAP. This picturesque 15th century Buddhist Pagoda is spacious and airy – and an ideal reprieve while sightseeing Hanoi. It serves as the Head Office of Vietnamese Buddhist Sangha.
Hanoi Hilton: Hoa Lo Prison Museum
MAP. Open daily 8am-5pm. Built in the late 1800s by French colonists to imprison Vietnamese political activist, detainees here experienced severe overcrowding, brutal torture and execution.
However, it was during the Vietnam War that it got the nickname Hanoi Hilton. Many Americans were held at Hao Lo Prison for years – most notably, the late John McCain.
Interesting Fact: Hoa Lo translates to Hell’s Hole, which seems appropriate. However, it was named for the street it was built on, Pho Hoa Lo – which is where wooden stoves were once sold.
Vietnamese Women’s History Museum
MAP. Open daily 8am-5pm. Since 1995, this venue has featured exhibits detailing women’s contribution to Vietnamese society. Displays include their role in the family, the country’s history and traditional fashions.
Lunch at a Hanoi Hot Spot
Hanoi cuisine is legendary…and some of the best spots are south of the Old Town. Choose one – or both – of these classic places to eat in Hanoi!
Bun Cha Huong Lien
MAP. Originating in Hanoi, Bun Cha is a savory dish of grilled pork, noodles, herbs and dipping sauce, which is usually accompanied by a fried seafood roll.
The most popular place to eat it is at Bun Cha Huong Lien – which was made famous when US President Obama and the late Anthony Bourdain shared a meal here.
In fact, the very table they sat at is encased in an upstairs room – ask the waitstaff and they will point the way!
Pho Thin
MAP. Pho is a well-known Vietnamese dish worldwide – and it was created in Hanoi. The staple meal is sold in practically every restaurant and on most street corners.
However, for an authentic Pho experience, we recommend heading to the hidden Hanoi restaurant, Pho Thin.
Foodie Tip: Want more recommendations for Hanoi places to eat? Join this top-rated Street Food Tour or read our guide to Hanoi Food and create your own!
Bravo, you’ve completed all 5 of our Hanoi Walking Tours!
Free Tour Hanoi Culture and History Map
Hanoi Map of Sights (All 5 Walking Tours)
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Hanoi Attractions Map from below.
Planning a Trip to Hanoi, Vietnam
There is much more to planning a Hanoi trip than determining what to see and do. We recommend starting with our detailed Hanoi Itinerary.
Travelers taking Hanoi day trips – like to Halong Bay or Ninh Binh – can plan their fun excursion with our tips as well!
Visiting other Top Destinations in Vietnam? Super! Be sure to get a head start by reading our complete guides.
- 2 Week Vietnam Itinerary
- Best Things To Do in Hoi An
- What To See in Da Nang
- Free Walking Tour of HCMC
- Sightseeing in Da Lat
- Planning a Day Trip to Hue
- Beach Vacation on Phu Quoc
As you make plans and reservations, organization is key. We recommend staying on top of the details with our Trip Planning Printables.
Start planning your trip to Vietnam! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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