On this land of Thang Long, every brick and every tile carries the stories of past dynasties. Each step through Hoan Kiem Lake or the Temple of Literature feels like walking back in time, where the old rhythm of life blends naturally with the modern.
In 1010, King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to this place, building the citadel of Thang Long by the Red River and laying the foundation for a thousand years of culture. In the 15th century, the Le dynasty expanded the Imperial Citadel, strengthening the walls and palaces, turning it into the political, academic, and cultural center of the country. And from there, the journey of exploring Hanoi begins with layers of history stacked upon each other.
The Old Quarter – Living History in the Heart of Hanoi
If the Imperial Citadel was the heart of power, then the 36 streets of the Old Quarter were the lungs of daily life. Right in the city center, these streets still reflect a history of trade and craft specialization. Each street is tied to a traditional craft: Hang Bac (silver), Hang Ngang (silk), Hang Dao (textiles), Hang Ma (paper and votive items)… From the 15th to the 19th centuries, this was a bustling commercial hub where artisans and merchants gathered, creating a strong craft network.
A walk through the Old Quarter lets you feel both the ancient charm and the daily life of Hanoians – from small coffee shops to the familiar street vendors. And if you want to understand why Hanoi is called the “land of learning,” your next step should be the Temple of Literature.
Book a Hanoi Old Quarter walking tour here to explore hidden alleys and street food stalls.
In the middle of modern Hanoi, the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam still stands as a solemn reminder of an ancient learning center. Built in 1070 under King Ly Thanh Tong, it was originally dedicated to Confucius and great scholars. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong established Quoc Tu Giam – the first university of Vietnam – to train talents for the nation.
Walking through the Khue Van Pavilion, built in the 19th century and now the symbol of Hanoi, visitors enter a quiet space away from the city buzz. Mossy roofs, old brick walls, and tall ancient trees bring back the atmosphere of education a thousand years ago. On the stone steles engraved with the names of doctoral laureates, the marks of time highlight Vietnam’s tradition of respecting learning and teachers.
Today, visitors can try calligraphy, ask for lucky words during Lunar New Year, or simply listen to guided stories about Vietnam’s love for education. During exam season, students still come here to pray for success, keeping the Temple of Literature closely tied to daily life. And stepping out of Khue Van Pavilion, history leads us further to another heritage site – the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long.
Skip the line and join a guided Temple of Literature tour with local stories.
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – The Beating Heart of History
Amid the modern city, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long quietly shines as a witness to more than a thousand years. From the Dai La era (7th century), to the capital’s relocation here by King Ly Thai To in 1010, through the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties – each left its mark, making this the leading political and cultural center of the nation.
Today, walking through the vast site, you will see:
- Doan Mon – the main gate, once used for royal ceremonies.
- Kinh Thien Palace – the former foundation where solemn royal meetings were held.
- Hanoi Flag Tower – 33.4 meters tall, both a landmark and a viewing point over the city.
- Hau Lau – the “Princess Tower,” once a retreat of the royal family.
The Citadel is not only stone walls but also fragments of time: bricks, tiles, ceramics, even ancient wells – all telling the story of a once-glorious capital. On August 1, 2010, UNESCO recognized the site as a World Cultural Heritage, making it a must-visit in Hanoi. And after a journey through history, Hanoi invites you to explore with your taste buds.
Joint a Hanoi Private Photoshoot – Iconic Spots & Hidden Gems
Wondering What to Eat in Hanoi?- Pho – Clear broth, soft noodles, beef or chicken.
- Bun Cha – Grilled pork, fresh vermicelli, sweet-sour dipping sauce.
- Banh Cuon – Steamed rice rolls with minced pork and mushrooms.
- Nem Ran (Spring Rolls) – Crispy fried rolls filled with pork or shrimp.
- Bun Thang – Light broth with a mix of toppings.
- Bun Oc – Sour broth with tomatoes and snails.
- Com Vong (Young Rice) – Soft green rice, eaten alone or with sweet soup.
- Egg Coffee – Creamy egg foam on strong black coffee.
- Traditional Sweet Soup (Che) – Colorful desserts made with beans, coconut, and sugar.
- West Lake Shrimp Cakes – Crispy fried with fresh herbs.
Food takes you deeper into Hanoi’s everyday life, from small stalls in hidden alleys to breezy lakeside eateries. And when night falls, the city shines in a different light.
Join a Hanoi street food tour to taste Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee like a local.
Lantern Nights & Local Life
At the Old Quarter Night Market, you’ll find a lively scene: handicrafts, colorful lanterns, and the smell of grilled food in the air. To connect with traditional crafts, visit Bat Trang pottery village, Van Phuc silk village, or Phu Vinh bamboo weaving village and watch the artisans at work.
Sometimes, Hanoi’s charm lies in the simple things: a street vendor near the Temple of Literature, a craftsman carefully working on his art, or children playing on the sidewalk. These little details make the capital warm and human.
Browse authentic handicrafts from Hanoi’s artisans here.
Exploring Hanoi: History, Culture, and Daily Life
Hanoi is more than its Old Quarter – it expands into other charming spaces. A bike ride around West Lake, a stop at Truc Bach Lake, or a stroll through the French Quarter with colonial villas and tree-lined boulevards show a slower pace of life. Don’t miss the St. Joseph’s Cathedral or the historic Long Bien Bridge over the Red River.
In the center, you can visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, and the Hoa Lo Prison, where echoes of struggle remain. For art and architecture, explore the Hanoi Opera House, a French colonial masterpiece, or the Phung Hung mural street, where colorful paintings tell stories of city life.
Hanoi changes with the seasons: cherry blossoms in spring, golden leaves by Hoan Kiem Lake in autumn, chilly mornings with hot pho in winter, and festive Tet celebrations with red calligraphy. For a change of scenery, try a cycling or motorbike trip to the outskirts: Bat Trang, Van Phuc, or the green countryside around the city.
Hanoi – A Starting Point for Cultural Journeys
Hanoi is not only the thousand-year-old capital but also a place where history, daily life, and flavors come together. From the mossy roofs of the Citadel to the busy Dong Xuan Market, or a quiet sunset by West Lake – the city blends tradition and modernity in harmony.
Take a slow walk through the Old Quarter, sip an egg coffee, or join a cycling trip outside the city. Every experience is a piece of the puzzle, and Hanoi itself is the perfect starting point for a cultural journey full of inspiration.
Book your Hanoi adventure: 3-day Ninh Binh tour and Ha Long & Bai Tu Long Bay cruise!
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