Hanoi Backpacker District

Hanoi Backpacker District: Phố Hàng Đào, Hanoi's Old Quarter

If you are looking for affordable accommodation and food areas in downtown Hanoi, Vietnam, that perfectly suit independent travelers and backpackers, I, mr.hotsia, recommend thePhố Hàng Đàoor what Thai people often call the Old Quarter, located on Lý Quốc Sư Street. This area is not far from Hoàn Kiếm Lake, a symbol of Hanoi city, and is a tourist hub frequently visited by international travelers.

For me, having traveled to Hanoi many times, choosing to stay around Phố Hàng Đào is a very worthwhile and convenient option. It offers easy transportation, great food options, and nearby tourist activities. Additionally, there are many tours sold here, making travel to various attractions more convenient. Also, airport transfers are simple because airline shuttle buses or public transport usually pick up and drop off tourists right at the Old Quarter.

Atmosphere and Convenience of the Old Quarter

Phố Hàng Đào is lively all day long, from early morning until late at night. The narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, and budget hotels are filled with tourists of various nationalities. The atmosphere on Lý Quốc Sư Street carries the charm of the old city, with colonial-style buildings blending with the bustling local life passing by.

I enjoy walking around Hoàn Kiếm Lake in the morning, where you can see Hanoi locals exercising, strolling, or practicing Tai Chi by the lakeside. Phố Hàng Đào is an excellent starting point for your trip. If you plan to visit Hanoi independently, I recommend reading my articleSelf-Guided Hanoi Travel Guide 2013which I have written with detailed information about transportation and nearby attractions.

Local Foods You Must Try in the Old Quarter

Food here is a delight, especially for backpackers and adventurous eaters. I, mr.hotsia, have some favorite regular spots I want to recommend:

• Hanoi Coffee– Traditional Vietnamese coffee with a strong flavor and distinct aroma. It’s an experience not to be missed.
• Street Porridge– A popular porridge stall near the Old Quarter in the morning. The porridge is smooth, with fresh and clean offal, delicious and affordable.
• Grilled Nem or Pork– Local Vietnamese grilled dishes cooked over charcoal, with an enticing aroma. There are many stalls around; I have tried several, but the ones near the Old Quarter that I recommend are truly excellent.
• Hanoi Roasted Duck– Located on the way to the Hanoi Circus Theater, the duck has crispy skin and tender meat with a balanced flavor, popular among locals and tourists alike.
• Kooha 37 Rice Soup– A rice soup restaurant with a unique recipe, mild flavor, perfect for late-night meals.
• Mee Kwan Restaurant– Mee Kwan noodles are chewy and soft with a rich broth. The restaurant is located in the Old Quarter.
• Kebab + French Bread– A popular street food snack among Hanoi locals, blending French and Vietnamese culinary cultures perfectly.

Also, if you like grilled seafood, tryVietnamese Grilled Button Squidwhich I have tasted and loved. For those who enjoy Vietnamese chicken biryani, check outthis clipor if you want to try the taste of Nem Thang, I recommendthe Vietnamese Nem Thang videowhich shows the preparation method and tempting flavors.

Transportation and Connections to Other Cities

For travel from Hanoi International Airport to Phố Hàng Đào, I, mr.hotsia, recommend using the shuttle van or bus line 17 waiting outside the airport. It is affordable and comfortable. Although it takes some time, it is worthwhile and safe. Another option is a taxi or hotel transfer service, which should be booked in advance for convenience. For more details about traveling in Hanoi, you can readBackpacking Hanoi 2016 articlewhere I share detailed experiences and travel methods.

Moreover, Hanoi is the northern Vietnam hub, convenient for traveling to other provinces. For example, if you are interested in visiting Cao Dai Temple, a new religion blending various beliefs, I recommend buying a tour from Hanoi that includes other important sites. Read more atCao Dai Religion Temple

Why Stay in Phố Hàng Đào in Hanoi?

From my personal experience traveling to Hanoi frequently, Phố Hàng Đào meets the needs of travelers seeking convenience, cheap food, and a lively atmosphere. It is also very safe because many tourists stay nearby. Choosing to stay here allows me to easily walk around and explore the city without worrying about inner-city transportation.

Additionally, staying in this area lets you experience authentic Hanoi life up close, including fresh markets, street food stalls, and charming coffee shops. If you want to experience it like me, you can start here. If you enjoy backpacker-style travel, I have an article aboutTraveling Hanoithat will add ideas to your trip.

Finally, if you are interested in traveling southern Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City, I also have a detailed article recommending tours and travel in Ho Chi Minh atBuying Tours in Ho Chi Minhin case you want to plan your southern trip after Hanoi.

Thank you for following my travel experiences, I am mr.hotsia. I hope Phố Hàng Đào will be a great destination for everyone wanting to experience the true side of Hanoi at a budget-friendly price.