Hanoi Street food tour discover 36 streets
Tour Overview
The Old Quarter of Hanoi is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and everyday life, nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s capital. With a history spanning over a thousand years, this bustling district is famed for its maze-like alleys, timeworn architecture, and streets named after the trades once practiced there. It’s a place where tradition and modernity intertwine, offering an authentic glimpse into the soul of the city.
Highlights of Your Experience:
-
Wander through the iconic 36 ancient streets, each rich with character and history.
-
Immerse yourself in local life as you visit street-side markets and interact with friendly vendors.
-
Savor a variety of authentic Vietnamese street foods, from savory snacks to sweet treats.
-
Take a break with a refreshing glass of local draught beer (Bia Hơi) at a roadside stall.
-
Dive into the fascinating stories behind Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Vietnam’s heritage.
-
Observe the daily rhythms of local life, from morning bustle to evening relaxation.
Whether you're a history lover, foodie, or curious traveler, a walk through the Old Quarter is an unforgettable way to experience the heart and soul of Hanoi.
Itinerary – Hanoi Street Food Adventure
Option 1: Morning or Evening Culinary Walk (10:00 AM / 5:30 PM)
Your culinary journey begins as our friendly English-speaking guide greets you at your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. From there, we set off on foot to explore some of the city’s most iconic and delicious hidden gems.
Our first stop is a visit to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a stunning piece of French colonial architecture nestled in the heart of the city. Right nearby, you'll sample one of Hanoi’s favorite street snacks – the crispy and savory Pillow Cake (Bánh Gối).
Next, we stroll back toward the bustling Old Quarter to taste Chicken Noodle Soup (Phở Gà) – a comforting local dish that holds a special place in every Hanoian’s heart. While enjoying your bowl, your guide will share stories of its origin and why it remains a national favorite.
As we continue our walk, we pass by Hoan Kiem Lake and the famous Ngoc Son Temple, perfect spots for capturing Hanoi’s beauty through your lens.
Our journey continues with a tangy Green Papaya Salad (Nộm Đu Đủ) and a refreshing glass of fresh local beer, paired with juicy grilled pork skewers (Thịt xiên nướng) – a true taste of Hanoi’s sidewalk cuisine.
We round off our food tour with a cup of the legendary Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) – a creamy, frothy blend that represents the unique twist Hanoi adds to traditional coffee. Relax, chat with your guide about local culture and customs, then return to your hotel filled with new flavors and memories.
Option 2: Street Food with Local Legends (10:00 AM / 5:30 PM)
Begin your journey as our guide picks you up from your Old Quarter hotel. First stop: Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Noodles, made famous worldwide when President Obama tried it during his visit. But here, you'll taste the truly authentic version prepared with a family recipe passed down for generations.
We then try Vietnamese Baguette (Bánh Mì) – a delightful fusion of French influence and Vietnamese ingredients. The crispy bread and flavorful fillings make it a must-try!
Wandering further through Hanoi’s lively alleys, we arrive at a stall serving Rolled Rice Pancakes (Bánh Cuốn) – delicate sheets filled with seasoned pork and wood-ear mushrooms. Then it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth with a warm serving of Sticky Rice and Sweet Soup (Xôi Chè).
On our way back, enjoy a peaceful stroll by Hoan Kiem Lake and stop for a refreshing Mixed Fruit Dessert (Hoa Quả Dầm) – a colorful bowl of tropical fruits and condensed milk.
Finally, step into a cozy, family-run coffee shop to taste the iconic Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng). Discover the story behind this Hanoian specialty, born from French influence but perfected with Vietnamese creativity. Sit back, enjoy the flavors, and have a cultural chat with your guide before being escorted back to your hotel.
Departure: Daily at 10:00 AM or 5:30 PM
Duration: ~3.5 hours
Includes: Food tastings, English-speaking guide, and local insights
Note: Vegetarian options available upon request
