Hanoi - Vietnam

Begin your journey on the bustling Cau Go Street, a significant artery in the heart of Hanoi. Filled with local eateries, street food vendors, and quaint shops selling artisan crafts, this place is a perfect introduction to the city's vibrant lifestyle.

Next, weave your way through the lively Gia Ngu Street. Notice the perfect blend of Hanoi's old and new as you pass by traditional Vietnamese houses standing proud alongside modern establishments.

Deviate slightly off Gia Ngu to visit Hang Be Market, an authentic local market where the air is rich with the aroma of fresh produce and spices. Here you can mingle with the locals and catch a glimpse of their daily lives.

Stroll along Hang Bac Street, renowned for its age-old silver crafting tradition. The rhythmic hammering sounds from the silver workshops are a constant backdrop while you admire exquisite silver jewellery and trinkets.

As you head towards Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, enjoy the festive atmosphere of this busy street filled with bars, coffee shops, and delicious street food stalls. It’s a perfect place to sample local cuisine and watch the world go by.

Next, move to Hang Buom Street, an area known for its historical significance. It's a mix of ancient houses, vibrant local businesses and an atmosphere that tells tales of Hanoi's colorful past.

Stop by Bach Ma Temple on Hang Buom Street. As the oldest temple in Hanoi, it boasts a rich history and intricate architecture that's sure to leave you in awe.

Head to Hang Giay Street, a less crowded but equally interesting area known for its shoe shops. Wander around the street and observe the local life unfolding around you.

On the way, don’t miss the chance to witness Quan Chuong Gate - one of the remaining gates of the old Thang Long citadel. This historical landmark tells a tale of the city's rich history.

Afterwards, experience the bustling Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi's largest indoor market. With everything from clothes and accessories to food and household goods, it's a microcosm of the city's energetic spirit.

Explore Hang Duong Street, known for its sweet treats. The air is filled with the sugary aroma of candies and desserts, providing a different aspect of Hanoi's diverse culinary scene.

Visit the tranquil Cau Dong Pagoda. Nestled amidst the city's hustle and bustle, the temple's serene atmosphere offers a welcome respite.

From there, venture towards Cha Ca Street to taste Cha Ca, a legendary Hanoian fish dish. This culinary delight is a must-try, with flavors that embody the richness of Vietnamese cuisine. It has been reported lately that this restaurant might have lost some of its attractiveness. Another famous Cha Ca restaurant is the Cha Ca Thang Long situated at 19-21-31 Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

Visit Hang Can Street and Luong Van Can Street, well-known for their shops selling traditional Vietnamese items. The vibrant shops offer an array of items from silk, lacquerware to various souvenirs.

Discover Hang Gai Street, or "Silk Street", the best place in town for high-quality, fashionable silk materials and tailoring services. Don't miss the chance to buy a traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai here.

Head over to Ly Quoc Su Street, another bustling street filled with restaurants and shops. The street is also known for its beautiful French colonial-style buildings.

Ly Quoc Su Pagoda was rehabilitated and redecorated many times with the biggest restoration being made in 1954. The cultural and historical treasure of this temple still remains Ly Quoc Su’s statue, Buddha statues and statues of Monk Tu Dao Hanh and his mother and Monk Giac Hai. There is also the precious bell of Tu Chung, cast in the 19th century and a stone stele with inscriptions made in 1855 by Le Dinh Duyen, a famous man. The name of Ly Quoc Su was given to a 244 metre-long street running from Hang Bong to Nha Tho streets.

St Joseph’s Cathedral, or “The Big Church” familiarly called by the locals, is one of the first structures constructed by French colonists during their expansion in Indochina and still intact in Hanoi after two fierce wars. In spite of fierce fights destroying almost parts of Hanoi, St Joseph’s Cathedral is still in good condition. Today, it becomes a historical attraction in Hanoi which remains the image of the beauty of the old Hanoi and makes an impression on travelers by its ancient beauty inside the bustling capital.

Finally, finish your tour on the tranquil shores of Hoan Kiem Lake, the spiritual and cultural heart of Hanoi. As the sun sets, watch the locals practicing Tai Chi or simply enjoy the serene view, reflecting on your enriching journey through the historic lanes of Hanoi.