Just south of the Old Quarter are spacious streets, verdant parks and French colonial architecture. With restored cathedrals and villas, insightful museums, and lovely lakes, this walk will show you the heart of Hanoi.
Begin at Hoan Kiem Lake, an attraction in itself, ringed with trees and home to a legendary tower. Head to St. Joseph’s Cathedral on Ly Quoc Su for a snapshot of local life: street side bustle, kids playing, and women selling fruits from bamboo baskets. The picturesque yellow villa at Hang Trong Gardens on the same street is worth a look, before you stroll on to the Vietnamese Women’s Museum — one of the best in the country.
Walk a block to Ba Trieu st. where you’ll find sidewalk cafes and stalls serving phở and cơm rang gà. Turn right on Nguyen Du street to reach the lovely Thien Quang Lake with rows of centuries-old trees, a quaint temple, and an old banyan tree.
Walk down and cross Tran Nhan Tong st. and enter Reunification Park. Hanoi’s largest green space is ringed with paved paths where locals love to exercise. Sip a coconut by the water, or pedal out in a swan boat. Exit on the eastern side of the park on Tue Tinh st. and make your way toward the ornate Hanoi Opera House.
Hanoi’s French Quarter is known for high-end stores and colonial-era architecture, a fascinating contrast from the crumbling and colourful buildings you passed earlier. Finish your stroll with a well-earned coffee on the terrace of the Metropole Hotel.