
The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 69 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience worth booking?
The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience is a 2.5-hour experience in Hanoi, Vietnam, from $35 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 69 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (69)
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- From
- $35 per person
Step into the soul of Hanoi through its Old Quarter, a vibrant maze with over a thousand years of history. Here, time seems to slow down as ancient streets, bustling markets, and timeless traditions transport you to another world entirely. 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!
What you get
About this experience
Step into the soul of Hanoi through its Old Quarter, a vibrant maze with over a thousand years of history. Here, time seems to slow down as ancient streets, bustling markets, and timeless traditions transport you to another world entirely. 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!
What's included
Included
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Tea and coffee
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Bach Ma Temple
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.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Long Bien Bridge
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.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Dong Xuan Market
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.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Old Quarter
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.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Hanoi
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
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Private Tour
Private Tour: Have lots of questions or a unique perspective? This private option is for you. Enjoy open minded discussions, deeper insight
Hanoi Old Quarter Tour
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- OneTrip With Local
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 69 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
69 verified traveler reviews for The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great first time Hanoi experience
Very knowledgeable tour guide and a most unexpected yet very pleasant and exciting tour! Top marks to Jasmine for being an excellent guide!
via Viator
Don’t miss this tour
Fantastic experience with Jasmine as our guide. We were the only two on our tour and we felt we this was the absolute best experience. We learnt so many new things about the Vietnamese culture that we otherwise wouldn't have.
via Viator
Great Tour in Hanoi
Had a great morning with Thien. He gave us some brief history of Vietnam and different places around Hanoi. It was great having a chat with him and getting his perspective on things. Great time.
Response from the operator: Xin chào, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re really glad you had a great morning exploring Hanoi with Thien. It was a pleasure sharing some of the city’s history and hidden corners with you, and even more wonderful to hear that you enjoyed the conversations and getting Thien (Kien)’s local perspective. It was great having you with us, and we hope you’ll take some good memories of Hanoi with you! Thân mến, Công, Quang, Mina and Kiên.
via Tripadvisor
Guide was great -...
Guide was great - Angelina. We explored the authentic part of old quarter and learnt history of the city
Response from the operator: Xin chào Diana, Thank you for your kind review. We’re so happy to hear that you enjoyed exploring the authentic side of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with Angelina and learning more about the city’s history. We hope to welcome you again in Hanoi. Thân mến, Công, Quang and Kiên.
via Viator
A great experience...
A great experience wandering the streets of Old Town with a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. Highly recommend this tour especially for your first visit to Hanoi.
Response from the operator: Xin chào Robin, Thank you for your lovely review. We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed exploring the Old Quarter and that the tour felt like a great introduction to Hanoi. Your recommendation truly means a lot to us. Thân mến, Onetrip With Local Travel Company
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $35 to $67
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 24
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by OneTrip With Local, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 71.0 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything OneTrip With Local runsWhy this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hanoi.
How much does The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience cost?
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Prices start at $35 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hanoi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience take?
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Plan for about 2.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hanoi is not rushed.
Is The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 69 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hanoi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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Around 24 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hanoi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hanoi and add a light layer if any part of the 2.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hanoi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hanoi?
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On Outty we rank every Hanoi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Ha Giang Loop 3-Day Small Group - from Hanoi, (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR, Incense Village Quang Phu Cau, Hat Village and Hanoi City Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hanoi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hanoi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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Included: Bottled water; Snacks; and Tea and coffee. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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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. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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Across 69 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for The Hidden Hanoi Old Quarter Experience?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Private Tour, Hanoi Old Quarter Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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