Discover the 10 best things to do at Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street in Hoan Kiem Ward! Explore folk games, street food, costs, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book now!
Capture the lively essence of Hanoi’s cultural gemHanoi’s Weekend Walking Street, centered around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hoan Kiem Ward, transforms the Old Quarter into a car-free cultural playground every Friday to Sunday evening, attracting 50,000–100,000 visitors weekly. Spanning 16 streets, this pedestrian zone offers a dynamic mix of Vietnamese folk games, street performances, artisan crafts, and iconic street food like phở bò and bánh mì, priced at $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND). It’s a must-visit for travelers immersing in Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage, steps from Ngoc Son Temple.
Since 2016, the walking street has fostered community spirit with eco-friendly practices like biodegradable packaging and local artisan support, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this vibrant scene, ensuring a green, unforgettable experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to the Weekend Walking Street using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos or VinBus, led by English-speaking guides who share local traditions, navigation tips, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local vendors and artisans, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore the Weekend Walking Street responsibly!
Start your Hanoi Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)The Weekend Walking Street, covering 16 streets like Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Đào, and Tạ Hiện, operates from 7:00 PM Friday to midnight Sunday, creating a 3-km pedestrian zone around Hoan Kiem Lake. Launched in 2016, it blends Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter charm with modern vibrancy, hosting traditional games like kéo co, street music from ca trùto pop, and bustling night markets. With 50,000–100,000 visitors weekly, it’s a cultural hub where eco-friendly initiatives, such as biodegradable utensils and waste management by youth groups, preserve its heritage, making it a sustainable highlight of Hanoi’s 1,000-year legacy.
Photograph the playful allure of Hanoi’s heritage (Source: Internet)These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$5, offer immersive cultural experiences in Hoan Kiem Ward:
Join ô ăn quan (mandarin square capturing) or nhảy dây (jump rope) on Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at 8:00 PM, free, led by local youth groups.
Cost: Free; toy boards $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable pebbles/ropes; community-driven.
Tip: Try kéo co (tug-of-war) near Lý Thái Tổ Statue; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Sway to traditional xẩm folk or modern bands on Hàng Đào, best at 7:30 PM, free, with diverse genres from Latin to acoustic.
Cost: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal setup reduces waste; support local artists.
Tip: Catch ca trù at Đồng Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square; bring earphones for clarity.
Taste bún chả or phở bò at stalls on Tạ Hiện or Hàng Bông, best at 8:00 PM, for $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$3/dish.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable bowls; local ingredients.
Tip: Visit Bún Chả Hàng Mành (1 Hàng Mành) for authenticity; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Browse handmade lanterns or silk scarves on Hàng Ngang, best at 7:00 PM, for $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$5/item.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local artisans; bring reusable bags.
Tip: Bargain politely at Dong Xuan Market end; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Artisan Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Have your portrait drawn by artists on Hàng Khay, best at 9:00 PM, for $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND), in 20–30 minutes.
Cost: $2–$5/portrait.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal materials; support local talent.
Tip: Chat with artists for Hanoi stories; ideal near Hoan Kiem Lake.
Photograph Hoan Kiem Lake’s red Húc Bridge or street scenes on Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at 7:00 PM, free, for iconic Hanoi shots.
Cost: Free; optional tripod $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography reduces waste; respect crowds.
Tip: Use a 50mm lens for night shots; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Participate in K-pop or hip-hop dance groups on Lê Thái Tổ, best at 8:30 PM, free, with energetic performances by local youth.
Cost: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Community-driven; no disposable props.
Tip: Follow dance crews’ social media for schedules; great for teens.
Make tò he (rice dough figurines) with artisans on Hàng Mã, best at 7:00 PM, for $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$3/figurine.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable materials; artisan-led.
Tip: Craft a dragon or bird; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Enjoy Hanoi’s fresh draft beer on Tạ Hiện, best at 9:00 PM, for $0.30/glass (7,000 VND), in a lively nightlife scene.
Cost: $0.30–$0.50 (7,000–12,500 VND)/glass.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable cups at some bars; local brew.
Tip: Pair with nem rán ($1 or 25,000 VND); included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Nightlife Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
Walk Hoan Kiem Lake’s lit-up paths, best at 10:00 PM, free, for serene views and photo ops with locals.
Cost: Free.
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walk to reduce emissions; respect lake cleanliness.
Tip: Start at Ngoc Son Temple; perfect for evening relaxation.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Hanoi Travel adventures (Source: Internet)The Weekend Walking Street runs Friday to Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight, with peak energy from 8:00–10:00 PM (50,000–100,000 visitors). November to April offers dry, cool weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for strolling; the rainy season (May–October) requires umbrellas. Fridays are quieter (20,000–30,000 visitors), while Saturdays/Sundays are busier (50,000–100,000). Tet (January/February) or Liberation Day (October 10) amplifies festive vibes (100,000+). Early evenings (7:00–8:00 PM) suit families; late nights (10:00 PM–midnight) favor nightlife enthusiasts. Avoid rush hours (5:00–7:00 PM Friday) for easier access.
Hoan Kiem Ward’s pedestrian zone, centered around Hoan Kiem Lake, is reachable in 5–60 minutes:
By Walking: 5–15 minutes within Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., from Hanoi Opera House to Đinh Tiên Hoàng, 200m). Free, eco-friendly.
By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND) for 1–2 people.
By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Xanh SM apps; helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 08, 09, 14, 36 to Lý Thái Tổ or Hanoi Post Office stops (200m walk), 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–10:30 PM. Use Tìm Buýt app.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Đinh Tiên Hoàng, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.
By Bicycle: Rent from Old Quarter shops ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND), 5–10 minutes. Eco-friendly; park at Hàng Bai ($0.20–$1.20 or 5,000–30,000 VND).
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, with parking at 15 Hai Bà Trưng or Lý Thường Kiệt (17,380m², 78 lots).
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 28 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk; direct taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Navigation Tip: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use St. Joseph’s Cathedral as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: VinBus or walking reduces emissions; carpool for private cars.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Đào; secure valuables. Confirm fares via apps.
Seize the vibrant spirit of Hanoi Travel (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; casual attire for games.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat for evening strolls.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/Tìm Buýt apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).
Activity Gear: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); reusable straw ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); camera for photos.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Biodegradable wipes; avoid single-use plastics.
Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for food ($1–$3), souvenirs ($1–$5), or tips ($0.20–$0.50); secure valuables in crowded zones.
Shopping in the pedestrian street in Hanoi (Source: Internet)Activity and Food Costs
Folk Games: Free; toy boards/ropes $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Street Performances: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Street Food (e.g., Phở, Bún Chả): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Night Market Souvenirs: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Portrait Sketches: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Street Dance: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50.
Craft Workshops (e.g., Tò He): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Bia Hơi: $0.30–$0.50 (7,000–12,500 VND)/glass.
Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.30–$1.50 (7,000–37,500 VND).
Lake Stroll: Free.
Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND/day).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Walking: Free.
Cyclo: $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND).
Xe Ôm: $1.60–$4 (40,000–100,000 VND) for 1–5 km.
VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Xanh SM Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).
Private Car: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Walk: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).
Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $5–$15 (walking, games, street food).
Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, souvenirs, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, guided tour, premium dining).
Tip: Budget for activities ($0–$5), food ($1–$3), and transport ($0.60–$8); carry cash for stalls (some accept mobile payments).
Dive into the flavorful charm of Hanoi Travel (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit 8:00–10:00 PM for peak vibrancy; November–April for dry weather. Fridays are quieter (20,000–30,000 visitors); Saturdays/Sundays busier (50,000–100,000). Check Tet or Liberation Day schedules for special events.
Booking: No tickets needed; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Buy souvenirs or sketches on-site at Hàng Ngang or Hàng Khay.
Sustainability: Choose biodegradable packaging; bring reusable straws. Support artisans for crafts ($1–$5) or food ($1–$3) on Tạ Hiện.
Navigation: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hoan Kiem Lake as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Đào; secure valuables. Stay alert for motorbikes outside pedestrian zones; confirm fares via apps.
Weather: Dry season for comfort; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather for evening conditions.
Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào”; tip performers/artisans ($0.20–$0.50). Join games respectfully; share tables at food stalls.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer. Choose busy stalls for fresh food.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase the Weekend Walking Street’s cultural vibrancy:
Hanoi Walking Street Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Đào, and Tạ Hiện at 7:00 PM, with ô ăn quan play and phở bò tasting ($1–$2). Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi Nightlife & Culture Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Walking street, night market, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Walking street, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street in Hoan Kiem Ward, a cultural gem centered around Hoan Kiem Lake, attracts 50,000–100,000 weekly visitors with 10 unforgettable experiences, from free folk games to street food and crafts like phở and lanterns for $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND). Held Friday to Sunday evenings (6:00 PM–midnight), this pedestrian paradise blends Thang Long heritage with modern vibrancy, preserved by eco-friendly practices like biodegradable packaging. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you through this vibrant hub, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travelexperience with low-impact tours and visits to Ngoc Son Temple ($1.20 entry, 30,000 VND) and Dong Xuan Market. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly cultural adventure today!
Ready to experience the 10 best things at Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street in Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Hanoi Weekend Walking Street Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
