Explore Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street in Hoan Kiem Ward! Discover streets, activities, costs, sustainable practices, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours. Book your weekend adventure now!
Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street, centered around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hoan Kiem Ward, transforms the Old Quarter into a car-free, pedestrian-only cultural festival every Friday to Sunday from 7:00 PM to midnight, drawing over 100,000 visitors weekly. This vibrant zone, free to access, spans key streets like Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Tạ Hiện, and Hàng Đào, offering traditional games, street food, and live music, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking Hanoi’s lively spirit. With over 30 streets closed to vehicles, it’s a safe, immersive way to explore Vietnam’s 1,000-year-old capital.
Launched in 2016, the Walking Street promotes sustainable tourism with free Wi-Fi, recycling bins, and eco-friendly street vendors, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Set in Hanoi’s 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), its evening hours ensure a cool, festive atmosphere. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours guide you through this cultural extravaganza, ensuring a sustainable, 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 or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This simplifies navigation within the Walking Street using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly cultural tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos or electric carts, led by English-speaking guides who share the Walking Street’s history, activities, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local vendors, 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 Hanoi’s Walking Street responsibly!
Seize the festive spirit of Hanoi Travel evenings (Source: Internet)Spanning Hoan Kiem Ward’s historic “36 Streets,” the Weekend Walking Street, launched by Hanoi authorities in 2016, celebrates Vietnam’s cultural heritage, attracting 50,000–100,000 visitors per night. Centered around Hoan Kiem Lake, it transforms streets like Tạ Hiện and Đinh Tiên Hoàng into open-air markets and performance spaces, hosting traditional games like O An Quan and folk music, alongside modern busking. With 78 licensed parking lots and free Wi-Fi across the zone, it’s accessible and connected. Eco-friendly initiatives, including LED lighting and biodegradable food packaging, preserve the Old Quarter’s charm, making it a sustainable cultural hub for locals and tourists.
The Walking Street covers over 30 pedestrian-only streets in Hoan Kiem Ward, open Friday to Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight:
Core Lake Area: Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Khay, Lê Thái Tố (Hàng Trống to Hàng Khay), Lê Lai (Đinh Tiên Hoàng to Lý Thái Tổ), Lê Thạch, Trần Nguyên Hãn (Đinh Tiên Hoàng to Lý Thái Tố).
Old Quarter Hub: Hàng Đào, Hàng Dầu (Đinh Tiên Hoàng to Cầu Gỗ), Lương Văn Can (Hàng Hành to Lê Thái Tố), Hàng Bông, Hàng Bạc, Đinh Lễ, Nguyễn Xí, Mã Mày, Hàng Buồm, Hàng Giấy, Lương Ngọc Quyền, Tạ Hiện, Đào Duy Từ.
Cultural Extensions: Tràng Tiền (Ngô Quyền to Hàng Bài), Lò Sũ (Đinh Tiên Hoàng to Nguyễn Hữu Huân), Bảo Khánh (Bảo Khánh Lane to Lê Thái Tố), Hàng Bài (Hai Bà Trưng to Hàng Khay), Đồng Xuân, Hàng Đường.
Map Tip: Download offline maps (Maps.me) with “Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoan Kiem Ward” for navigation; key entry points include Hoan Kiem Lake fountain and Đồng Xuân Market.
Learn Hanoi’s cultural heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)These free or low-cost, eco-friendly activities immerse you in Hanoi’s culture:
Join locals in games like O An Quan (Mandarin Square Capturing) or Nhảy Sạp (Bamboo Dancing) near Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at 8:00 PM, free, hosted by cultural groups.
Cost: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable game props; community-led.
Tip: Try Kéo Cò (Tug of War) at Tạ Hiện; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150).
Taste phở ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) or bánh mì ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at Hàng Bạc stalls, best at 7:30 PM, using biodegradable packaging.
Cost: $0.50–$2 per dish; drinks $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Local vendors; minimal waste.
Tip: Try egg coffee at Hàng Gai; included in Legend Travel Group’s Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Watch xẩm or chèo folk music near Hoan Kiem Lake, best at 9:00 PM, free, with buskers performing traditional and modern tunes.
Cost: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-energy acoustic sets.
Tip: Record respectfully; tip performers at Tạ Hiện.
Browse Hàng Đào for souvenirs like silk scarves ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), best at 8:00 PM, supporting local artisans.
Cost: $1–$5 per item.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable bags encouraged.
Tip: Bargain politely; carry small VND notes.
Walk the 1-km lake loop, best at 7:00 PM, free, enjoying lit-up Húc Bridge and Turtle Tower, with eco-friendly LED lights.
Cost: Free.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-only; recycling bins.
Tip: Visit Ngoc Son Temple ($1.20 or 30,000 VND) nearby; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
To fully embrace Hanoi’s Walking Street vibe, follow these practices:
Start Early: Arrive at 7:00 PM to beat crowds; begin at Hoan Kiem Lake fountain for orientation.
Savor Slowly: Linger at Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi stalls ($0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND), sharing tables with locals.
Join the Festivities: Participate in games or dance with locals near Lương Ngọc Quyền, fostering community spirit.
Stay Green: Use reusable bags for shopping; dispose of waste in recycling bins, supporting eco-friendly efforts.
Eco-Friendly Tip: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5) to explore; avoid single-use plastics from vendors.
Photograph the vibrant rhythm of Hanoi’s cultural scene (Source: Internet)The Walking Street, centered at Hoan Kiem Lake in Hoan Kiem Ward, is reachable in 5–15 minutes from central Hanoi:
By Bus: Routes 08, 09, 14, 31, 36, 86 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5 minutes. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Old Quarter (5–10 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes from Old Quarter.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Đinh Tiên Hoàng, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Eco-friendly VinFast cars.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people.
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. 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). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).
Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoan Kiem Ward”; park at 78 designated lots ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND for bikes/cars).
Eco-Friendly Note: Walking or cycling reduces emissions; buses lower per-person fuel use.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Tạ Hiện; secure valuables.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Casual attire; comfortable shoes for walking. Waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses for evening lights.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) for Wi-Fi backup.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for shopping; biodegradable straws.
Extras: Notebook for notes; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for street food ($0.50–$2) or tips ($0.20–$0.50); secure valuables.
Dive into the culinary delights of Hanoi Travel (Source: Internet)Activity and Food Fees
Entry: Free.
Street Food: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) per dish.
Drinks (Bia Hơi, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (Scarves, Crafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Traditional Games: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Ngoc Son Temple (Nearby): $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Guided Cultural Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Central Hanoi)
Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).
Walking: Free.
Electric Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Parking: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy in Hoan Kiem Ward)
Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Total Nightly Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, street food, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$60 (cyclo, tour, hotel).
Luxury: $80–$120 (private car, premium hotel).
Tip: Budget for food ($2–$5) and souvenirs ($1–$5); carry cash as vendors rarely accept cards.
Timing: Arrive at 7:00 PM to beat peak crowds (9:00–10:00 PM); Friday quieter than Saturday/Sunday. Spring (January–March) for festive vibes.
Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; no entry tickets needed.
Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5); request biodegradable packaging from vendors. Use free Wi-Fi to reduce data use.
Navigation: Start at Đinh Tiên Hoàng; follow red pedestrian signs. Confirm with locals for Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi zone.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Hàng Đào; secure valuables. Use Grab/Xanh SM apps for late-night rides ($2–$4).
Weather: Dry season for comfortable strolls; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip performers $0.20–$0.50. Respect game organizers’ instructions.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for evening walks.
Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street:
Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo to Walking Street at 7:00 PM, visiting Ngoc Son Temple at 8:00 AM. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Walking Street, Tạ Hiện bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Walking Street, Ninh Bình’s Tràng 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 is a cultural spectacle, offering free access to over 30 pedestrian-only streets around Hoan Kiem Lake every Friday to Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight, captivating 100,000 visitors weekly with games like O An Quan, street food, and folk music. With eco-friendly LED lights and biodegradable packaging, it preserves the Old Quarter’s charm. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable Hanoi Toursguide you through this vibrant festival, ensuring a safe, immersive experience. Whether savoring phở on Hàng Bạc or dancing at Tạ Hiện, the Walking Street promises an unforgettable Hanoi Travel weekend. Don’t miss out—browse our featured Hanoi Tours and book your journey today!
Ready to explore Hanoi’s Weekend Walking Street in Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 1000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
