Quick summary: Explore Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter with its bustling markets and street food, savor traditional Vietnamese coffee, and discover serene hidden temples over three enriching days. This family-friendly itinerary balances cultural immersion with comfortable transport options and mid-range budget experiences.
Route map + stops
Old Quarter
- Old Quarter Street Food Market (Chợ ẩm thực phố cổ)
Nearest station: Hang Dao Station — Line: Line 2 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Other
- Hoan Kiem Lake (Hồ Hoàn Kiếm)
Nearest station: Hang Gai Station — Line: Line 2 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Ngoc Son Temple (Đền Ngọc Sơn)
Nearest station: Hang Gai Station — Line: Line 2 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Cafe Giang (Cà phê Giảng)
Nearest station: Hang Gai Station — Line: Line 2 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám)
Nearest station: Van Mieu Station — Line: Line 3 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Quan Thanh Temple (Đền Quán Thánh)
Nearest station: Quan Thanh Station — Line: Line 3 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Long Bien Bridge (Cầu Long Biên)
Nearest station: Long Bien Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (Nhà hát Múa rối Thăng Long)
Nearest station: Hang Dau Station — Line: Line 2 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage - Hidden Pagoda – Trấn Quốc Pagoda (Chùa Trấn Quốc)
Nearest station: Thanh Nien Station — Line: Line 1 — Exit: Best exit: check station signage
Timeline (hour-by-hour)
Day 1
Begin with a refreshing walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, soaking in the morning calm and local tai chi practice. Visit the charming Ngoc Son Temple on the lake island to learn about Hanoi’s legends. For lunch, dive into the flavors of the Old Quarter Street Food Market, sampling iconic dishes like pho and banh mi. In the afternoon, relax with a cup of famous egg coffee at Cafe Giang, a historic spot beloved by locals.
08:00 — Morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake
Why go: Start your day with a peaceful stroll around Hanoi’s iconic lake and enjoy the local morning atmosphere.
Do:
- Walk the lake perimeter
- Observe locals doing tai chi
- Visit the Turtle Tower for photos
How to get there: Walk or taxi from your accommodation in Old Quarter
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1 hour
09:30 — Visit Ngoc Son Temple
Why go: Explore this historic temple on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, rich in legend and culture.
Do:
- Cross the red Huc Bridge
- Explore temple grounds
- Learn about local legends
How to get there: Walk from Hoan Kiem Lake
Cost / tickets: Small entrance fee, approx. $1
Time needed: 45 minutes
11:00 — Lunch at Old Quarter Street Food Market
Why go: Taste authentic Vietnamese street food in a lively market setting, perfect for families.
Do:
- Try pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls
- Enjoy local fruit juices
- Experience market bustle
How to get there: Short walk from Ngoc Son Temple
Cost / tickets: $5-$10 per person
Time needed: 1.5 hours
14:00 — Coffee break at Cafe Giang
Why go: Sample Hanoi’s famous egg coffee in a historic cafe beloved by locals and visitors alike.
Do:
- Order egg coffee or traditional drip coffee
- Relax in vintage ambiance
- Chat with friendly staff
How to get there: Walk or short taxi ride from market
Cost / tickets: $2-$4 per coffee
Time needed: 45 minutes
Day 2
Start your day at the serene Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, admiring its traditional architecture. Then visit the peaceful Quan Thanh Temple, an ancient Taoist site. Enjoy a lakeside lunch near West Lake, followed by a visit to the hidden gem Trấn Quốc Pagoda, Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple surrounded by lotus ponds.
08:30 — Explore Temple of Literature
Why go: Visit Vietnam’s first university and admire traditional architecture and tranquil gardens.
Do:
- Walk through courtyards
- See stone stelae of doctors
- Learn about Confucian heritage
How to get there: Taxi or bus from Old Quarter
Cost / tickets: Approx. $1.50 entrance
Time needed: 1.5 hours
11:00 — Visit Quan Thanh Temple
Why go: Discover one of Hanoi’s oldest Taoist temples with beautiful statues and serene atmosphere.
Do:
- Explore temple grounds
- Admire bronze statue of Tran Vu
- Enjoy peaceful surroundings
How to get there: Taxi or bus from Temple of Literature
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1 hour
13:00 — Lunch near West Lake
Why go: Enjoy lakeside dining with fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties in a family-friendly setting.
Do:
- Try grilled fish dishes
- Relax by the lake
- Sample local desserts
How to get there: Taxi from Quan Thanh Temple
Cost / tickets: $10-$15 per person
Time needed: 1.5 hours
15:30 — Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda
Why go: Explore Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temple located on a small island in West Lake, a hidden gem.
Do:
- Walk temple grounds
- Admire lotus ponds
- Learn about Buddhist traditions
How to get there: Short taxi ride from lunch spot
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1 hour
Day 3
Experience the historic Long Bien Bridge with its panoramic views of the Red River. Return to the Old Quarter Street Food Market for brunch, trying any dishes you missed earlier. Conclude your trip with a captivating performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, a unique cultural experience perfect for families.
09:00 — Morning at Long Bien Bridge
Why go: Walk or cycle across this historic iron bridge with panoramic views of the Red River and city.
Do:
- Take photos of the bridge and river
- Observe local fishermen
- Enjoy fresh air away from crowds
How to get there: Taxi from Old Quarter
Cost / tickets: Free
Time needed: 1 hour
11:00 — Brunch at Old Quarter Street Food Market
Why go: Revisit favorite street food stalls or try new dishes in a vibrant setting.
Do:
- Sample bun cha or egg coffee
- Shop for souvenirs
- People-watch
How to get there: Taxi or walk from Long Bien Bridge
Cost / tickets: $5-$10 per person
Time needed: 1.5 hours
14:00 — Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Show
Why go: Experience traditional Vietnamese water puppetry, a unique cultural performance enjoyable for all ages.
Do:
- Watch the puppet show
- Learn about Vietnamese folklore
- Enjoy family-friendly entertainment
How to get there: Walk or taxi from Old Quarter
Cost / tickets: $5-$10 per ticket
Time needed: 1 hour
Logistics (read this first)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and temple grounds
- Use taxis or ride-hailing apps for longer distances to save time and energy
- Carry cash in small denominations for street food and temple donations
- Stay hydrated and use sun protection when outdoors
- Respect local customs when visiting temples, including modest dress and quiet behavior
- Plan visits to popular sites early to avoid crowds
Local tips and guide
Local Guide to Hanoi’s Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is the historic heart of Hanoi, known for its narrow streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. Visitors can explore vibrant street food stalls, traditional craft shops, and serene temples nestled among the urban energy. Key landmarks include Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Temple of Literature. The area is best navigated on foot or by short taxi rides, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered around every corner.
If it rains (2 alternatives)
If something is closed (2 alternatives)
FAQ
Is this itinerary suitable for families with young children?
Yes, the itinerary includes family-friendly activities with moderate walking and plenty of breaks.
What is the best time of day to visit the Old Quarter?
Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Are taxis safe and reliable in Hanoi?
Yes, using reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps is safe and convenient.
Can I find vegetarian food in the Old Quarter?
Yes, many street food vendors and restaurants offer vegetarian options.
Is English widely spoken at the attractions?
Basic English is common at major tourist sites, but learning a few Vietnamese phrases is helpful.
How we planned this route
Byline: Expert travel planner with extensive experience in Southeast Asia itineraries
Based on local insights, family-friendly preferences, and a balanced mix of cultural and culinary experiences