Hanoi is famous for its hustle and bustle day and night. The streets in Hanoi are extremely busy and dense, intertwined with each other. Therefore, visitors to Hanoi for the first time may be quite surprised and do not know which neighborhoods to visit. Let Sanhotelseries help you discover streets in Hanoi through the article below!
1. Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street
Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street is a vibrant pedestrian zone encompassing 16 streets around the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, completely free of vehicle traffic and only for pedestrians. During its operating hours, establishments such as 3-star and above hotels, bars, and restaurants in the area are allowed to remain open until 2:00 am, creating a unique nighttime charm.
The walking street is not just a place to relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll. It is a dynamic hub of entertainment, offering diverse activities and memorable events. Open from 7:00 pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, it transforms the heart of Hanoi into a lively and captivating destination.
Play interesting folk games
Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street is a bustling weekend hotspot in Hanoi, drawing crowds eager to experience its unique charm. Among its highlights are the vibrant folk games, rich in traditional and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the soul of Vietnamese heritage.
As you explore the lively streets, you’ll find groups enthusiastically playing timeless games like o an quan, tug of war, and ball passing. Each game brings the community together in a joyful celebration, creating an atmosphere that is as captivating as it is full of life.
Enjoy street music and dance performances
Strolling through the streets of Hoan Kiem Walking Street, you’ll encounter groups of artists showcasing a vibrant array of musical styles and genres. From the rhythmic beats of Latin American music to soothing melodies, contemporary hits, orchestral performances, and even heartfelt amateur tunes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The sight of people gathering, swaying, and singing along with joy, free from the concern of passing vehicles, has become a defining image of Hanoi’s walking streets. This lively, communal spirit is undoubtedly one of the key factors that make Hoan Kiem Walking Street so irresistibly appealing to both locals and visitors.
Participate in events on Hoan Kiem Lake walking street
What’s happening at Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street? This lively pedestrian area regularly hosts a variety of special events and programs, including grand music festivals, cultural showcases, brand promotions, vibrant fairs, and food festivals. From time to time, it even pairs with other locations to create unique collaborative events.
These activities promise to deliver fresh and exciting experiences, offering visitors a deeper connection to Hanoi’s dynamic energy and cultural richness. Whether you’re a foodie, a music enthusiast, or simply looking to explore, Hoan Kiem Walking Street is a place where the city’s vitality truly comes alive.
Stroll, watch Hoan Kiem Lake at night
As the sun sets, Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street transforms into a romantic and sparkling haven illuminated by shimmering lights. Visitors can leisurely stroll around the lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, the gentle breeze, and the poetic beauty of the surroundings.
Find the perfect spot to admire the stunning natural scenery and iconic architectural landmarks such as the Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, and the picturesque The Huc Bridge. This serene moment invites you to pause, unwind, and let go of the worries and pressures of daily life, immersing yourself in the peaceful charm of Hanoi’s heart.
Shopping experience on the walking street
As you stroll through Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street, you’ll come across numerous street vendors offering a variety of children’s toys, souvenirs, and charming handicrafts. These small stalls add a colorful, bustling energy to the area.
For those looking for a broader selection of souvenirs, a visit to the nearby night market is a must. Located along Hang Ngang and Hang Dao streets, the market features an array of unique designs and items, perfect for finding the ideal keepsake or gift to take home.
2. Hang Ma Street – Hanoi’s colorful and vibrant lantern street
Nestled in Hang Ma Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hang Ma Street is a vibrant 300-meter stretch running east to west. The eastern end connects with Hang Ngang, Hang Duong, and Hang Chieu, while the western end intersects with Phung Hung and the iconic railway. Conveniently located, it’s just 100 meters from Dong Xuan Market and about 700 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple.
Steeped in tradition, Hang Ma Street is renowned for its production and trade of paper goods, votive offerings, and decorative items deeply rooted in Eastern culture. Over time, its offerings have diversified to include wedding invitations, postcards, decorative flowers, stationery, and modern toys. Bursting with color and life, Hang Ma Street has become a must-visit destination for those seeking a glimpse into Hanoi’s cultural richness and creative spirit.
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, Hang Ma Street comes alive with vibrant trading activities, its entire length bathed in the radiant hues of lanterns. Star lanterns, masks, lion heads, drums, and countless other splendid items fill the shops, creating a magical atmosphere that delights visitors of all ages.
When Christmas arrives, the street transforms into a winter wonderland, sparkling with pine trees, Santa Claus figures, and an array of decorative accessories. It’s a joyful scene that embodies the festive spirit of the season.
As Tet approaches, Hang Ma Street seems to never sleep, buzzing with energy from before Tet Ong Cong Ong Tao (December 23) until noon on the 30th of Tet. The street is awash in vibrant yellow and red hues, showcasing Tet decorations like lucky money envelopes, lanterns, God of Wealth figures, red couplets, Chung cake models, firecrackers, and other traditional offerings.
Come Halloween, the street takes on a spooky yet bustling vibe, offering affordable and eye-catching items such as costumes, skeleton decorations, pumpkin lanterns, horror masks, and toys. Young people flock to Hang Ma to shop, snap photos, and immerse themselves in the thrilling Halloween atmosphere, making it a hotspot for festive fun.
3. Hanoi train street coffee
Phung Hung Train Street dates back to the French colonial era, born alongside the construction of the Hanoi-Lao Cai railway. Originally a bustling commercial hub, the street is lined with houses closely packed along both sides of the railway. Despite the passage of time and many changes, Phung Hung Street has preserved its distinctive character, becoming an iconic part of Hanoi’s cultural landscape.
The street offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair. Traditional French colonial architecture stands alongside vibrant, colorful murals, creating a scene that is both unique and visually striking. Adding to its allure are the train tracks that run along the street, defining its unmistakable character.
Life unfolds peacefully here, with residents going about their daily routines right next to passing trains. This juxtaposition of tranquility and the rhythmic clatter of trains paints an urban portrait that feels both nostalgic and refreshing, offering visitors a truly unforgettable glimpse into Hanoi’s dynamic spirit.
4. Hang Ngang – Hang Dao Street – Dong Xuan Market
Hang Ngang – Hang Dao Street and Dong Xuan Market form a lively and colorful hub in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This vibrant area is a haven for street vendors offering everything from authentic Vietnamese handicrafts and traditional clothing to fresh produce and delectable street food.
As you wander through the streets, you’ll find yourself immersed in a maze of bustling alleys and charming shops, alive with a symphony of colors, sounds, and enticing aromas. Don’t miss the chance to visit Dong Xuan Market, where you can fully experience Hanoi’s dynamic culture and energetic spirit. This lively area is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the rich tapestry of life in the Old Quarter.
5. Trang Tien Street – one of the most luxurious streets in Hanoi
Trang Tien Street is a must-visit destination on Hanoi’s tourist map, renowned for its stunning Western-style architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Lined with luxurious shops and chic cafés, this elegant street begins at Hoan Kiem Lake, stretches through Hang Khay, and leads to the majestic Hanoi Opera House.
Historically known as Rue Paul Bert, named after the then-Governor of Tonkin, Trang Tien Street reflects Hanoi’s colonial past. When the French arrived, they infused the area with their architecture and lifestyle, leaving a lasting cultural imprint.
A prominent highlight of Trang Tien Street is Trang Tien Plaza, built in 1901. As Vietnam’s first and most prestigious commercial center, Trang Tien Plaza offers an array of luxury brands, entertainment zones, food courts, and premium services, making it a shopping paradise for visitors.
No trip to Trang Tien Street is complete without tasting the legendary Trang Tien ice cream, a quintessential Hanoi treat located at 35 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem. Whether it’s sunny or rainy, winter or summer, Trang Tien ice cream remains a favorite among locals and tourists, standing strong against imported brands. It’s an unmissable experience that captures the nostalgic and delicious essence of Hanoi.
6. Ta Hien Street – the most bustling night street in Hanoi
If Saigon has Bui Vien Western Street, Hue has Pham Ngu Lao Night Street, then Hanoi has Ta Hien “Sleepless Street”. Since 1945, this area was renamed Ta Hien Street, named after Ta Quang Hien – a leader of the Can Vuong movement.
Coming to Ta Hien Street at night, visitors will be overwhelmed by the bustling atmosphere of bars and pubs. This is the “gathering place” of Hanoi’s youth, young tourists and Westerners. Coming here, visitors can burn themselves out and sublimate with music. Lively sounds, stunning lights and extremely HOT performances are the ideal meeting place for the “extroverted team”.
7. Hoang Dieu Street
Hoang Dieu Street, located in Quan Thanh Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, stretches 1,340 meters long and 16 meters wide. Starting from Phan Dinh Phung Street and ending at Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, it intersects with several notable roads, including Dien Bien Phu, Hoang Van Thu, Cao Ba Quat, and Tran Phu Streets. Originally, this road was a moat on the western side of Thang Long Citadel during the Nguyen Dynasty, with access to the Doan Mon relic.
A favorite check-in spot for many tourists, Hoang Dieu Street enchants visitors with its serene beauty. Lined on both sides with towering trees, the street offers a refreshing canopy of green shade that stretches over the road, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and freshness.
Notably, Hoang Dieu Street is home to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành Thăng Long), located at 19C Hoang Dieu, a sprawling historical site that reflects Vietnam’s rich heritage. Nearby, visitors can also explore other iconic relics such as the Hanoi North Gate, Kinh Thien Palace, and the Hanoi Flag Tower.
=> See more: Things to see in Hanoi Vietnam: Top attractions you can’t miss
8. Nguyen Xi Street – attractive book street in Hanoi
Nguyen Xi Street, located in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, is a short yet charming stretch of about 100 meters connecting Dinh Le Street to Trang Tien Street. During the French colonial period, it was known as Jules Boissiere Street, later renamed Chua Quan Thuong Street after the August Revolution. Today, the street bears the name of Nguyen Xi, a renowned general, politician, and founding hero of the Later Le Dynasty who served as a high-ranking mandarin under four kings.
Nestled within the walking street area, Nguyen Xi Street has become a delightful highlight for visitors. Here, you can browse and buy books, enjoy a quiet moment of reading, and sip on a cup of coffee, escaping the fast pace of daily life. For book lovers, the street offers not only a sense of nostalgia and peace but also the gentle fragrance of milk flowers during Hanoi’s early autumn in October, creating a serene and poetic atmosphere.
9. Shoe Street Hanoi
Hang Dau Street, often called “Shoe Street”, is one of Hanoi’s oldest streets, deeply rooted in the city’s history. It dates back to the French colonial period when it was known as rue du Lac (Lakeside Street). In 1945, the locals reclaimed its original name, and despite various changes over the years, the street has retained the name Hang Dau ever since.
Today, Hang Dau Street is a vibrant marketplace primarily known for its numerous shops selling shoes and sandals. Walking along the street, visitors will encounter a variety of footwear catering to men, women, children, and the elderly, with designs that are both diverse and appealing. The close-knit arrangement of the shops creates a lively and bustling atmosphere.
Sports shoes, in particular, are a highlight of Hang Dau Street. While most designs are replicas of major international brands, they are affordable and meet the needs of Vietnamese consumers seeking budget-friendly options. With a wide range of colors, sizes, and styles, customers can easily find the perfect pair. Prices for sports shoes typically range from 200,000 to 300,000 VND per pair, making it a popular destination for footwear shopping.
10. Pottery Street along the Red River
The Ceramic Road along the Red River is a remarkable artistic creation, conceived by artist and journalist Nguyen Thu Thuy to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Thang Long – Hanoi. While time has taken its toll on the original vibrancy of this masterpiece, it continues to hold significant cultural and artistic value, drawing visitors to capture its beauty and check in during their trips to the capital.
In 2010, the Ceramic Road was recognized as the longest ceramic mural in the world, featuring a rich tapestry of themes such as Hanoi’s history, iconic landscapes, and Vietnamese legends. This ambitious project was a collaborative effort involving over 20 talented Vietnamese artists, 15 exceptional international artists, 500 children from both Vietnam and abroad, 50 art students, and more than 100 artisans from renowned ceramic villages such as Bat Trang, Binh Duong, and Bau Truc.
With its vibrant colors and meaningful depictions, the Ceramic Road is not only a symbol of Hanoi’s rich heritage but also a testament to the collective creativity and artistry of people from all walks of life. It remains a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the cultural heart of the city.
Here is the “Streets in Hanoi: Exploring the bustling heart of the city”. Wishing you a delightful trip to Vietnam! If you’re visiting Vietnam and the capital, Hanoi, you can book a room at San Hotel at the best prices here!
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