What You Will Do
Hanoi's Old Quarter, with over 1000 years of history, is the oldest part of the city. Exploring this ancient area will make you feel like you have stepped into a different world.
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!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
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
1
Bach Ma Temple
20 minutes
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
15 minutes
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
15 minutes
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
1 hour
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.
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