"7 million people, 5 million motorcycles." That's what our Halong Bay guide, Mr Hang told us as we passed through Hanoi. Without a doubt, the Old Quarter was everything we had imagined Hanoi to be like. It's buzzing with life and culture and a simple stroll around Hoem Kiem Lake in the evening will just the you back to the... More

The review that describes the overcrowded pavements, masses of scooters flying along narrow roads and on the pavements with horns blaring, the heat and the locals trying to sell their wares was accurate, but I came away with a much more positive feeling. It's crazy, wonderful, hot, different and friendly. There are loads of interesting streets, places to eat and... More

It looks like a very nice area. But be careful when you want to walk across the road. I almost got hit at least 5 times in 2 days. crazy bikers!

After having visited many Asian cities I generally prefer to get out to the countryside and beaches - Hanoi is different. The Old Quarter is charming, bustling and full of energy. We were fortunate to visit with some great guides from Hanoi Kids who found some interesting nooks. A favourite was the cafe that served "egg coffee" and "egg chocolate"... More

We enjoyed walking around the old quarter although it can be quite an exercise with all the bikes parked on the kerbs, small hawkers and pop-up cafeterias. This old quarter is full of life and very interesting to see the people, the way they leave, deal, eat, do business etc..... Along your walk you can stop to shop, eat street... More

Choose a time to when you can just go with the flow, wander, explore, take some photos, etc. There are streets that specialise ie rows of shoes hops, rows of jewellery, etc. it is easy to "lose" a street or shop. Unlike many countries, I found that in Vietnam, many products you see in Hanoi are not available or as... More

Lots of interesting architectures of old shoplots with each street specializing in its own item of trade. The nice thing about this place is that its in the middle (walking distance) of almost all the major attractions in Hanoi. As such i would highly recommend visitors to Hanoi to hotel in the old quarters area. Have a map/GPS handy when... More

Trying to saunter along the overcrowded pavements in holiday mode with the masses of mopeds flying about the narrow roads and on the pavements and parked indiscriminately on the pavements, with horns constantly blaring as they narrowly miss each other a nerve jangling , teeth grinding exercise in tolerance. Throw in 40 degrees heat and frequent harassment by the locals... More

It would be a big surprise should you know that Hanoi's Old Quarter came into being at the time King Ly Thai To selected Thang Long as the country’s capital in 1010, that is, the streets have a nearly 1,000-year old history and became crowded & lively in 15th century. What makes them unique is that many of them remain... More