Hanoi French Quarter
Hanoi French Quarter is located in the southeast corner of Hoan Kiem Lake. It's known as a sophisticated and residential neighborhood featuring charming colonial French architecture, leafy boulevards, and important political buildings.
While a lot of people opt for a guided walking tour or a street food tour, it's completely possible to explore this area on your own. I spent a full afternoon wandering this neighborhood last autumn so, here's the ultimate guide Hanoi French Quarter featuring must-see attractions, restaurants to try, and places to stay.
History of Hanoi French Quarter
The French ruled Vietnam for over 60 years from the late 1800s until 1946 and a lot of their impact can still be seen today.
This is really apparent in the French Quarter of Hanoi (the capital of French Indochina from 1902 - 1945) where traditional Vietnamese houses were replaced by colonial buildings and narrow streets were widened into boulevards reminiscent of those in Paris.
Architecture of French Quarter
When the French took over, they set out to westernize everything and part of that approach took place in city planning.
If you look closely at the layout and architecture of French Quarter, you'll notice that the buildings and roads are drafted in orderly concentric lines with pockets of organic urban disorganization that mimic that of Paris.
The French government tried to make the city easier to navigate while preserving existing neighborhoods and adding green spaces like public squares and tree-lined boulevards.
Official government buildings were also redesigned in neoclassical French fashion featuring clean geometric forms highlighting straight lines through dramatic columns, arches, and domes.
Simpler everyday houses were made in a colonial French style with butter-yellow facades, iron wrought balconies, classic red roofs, and and rustic green shutters.
Why Are Colonial French Buildings Yellow?
You'll find that a lot of the buildings left behind from French occupation, including the Presidential Palace, are yellow.
Why is that?
While there are no definitive answers, there are two theories:
Yellow is traditionally associated with royalty in Vietnamese culture. When the French came to Vietnam, they wanted to display their prowess in the far east and therefore chose this color as an expression of power.
On a more practical front, yellow is also a color that absorbs less heat and if you've ever been to Vietnam, you'll know that it gets extremely hot and humid in the summer. Painting the buildings this color helps them to stay cool, especially in a time when air conditioning did not exist.
What To See And Do In Hanoi French Quarter
So now that you have a general understanding of the district, here are the must-see attractions and things to do on your first time visit.
Catch A Show At Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House (now officially known as the Municipal Theater) is a staple in any French Quarter visit.
It's based on the Palais Garnier in Paris and features a lot of similar neo-Baroque architectural elements including Ionic columns with engaged blocks, grey slate tiles imported from France, and elegant ornamented doorways and balconies.
The Hanoi Opera House is one of the largest opera houses in the Vietnam, and is an important representation of arts and culture in the city.
I just admired the architecture from the outside, but if you have time for it, I highly recommend catching a show there.
The interior features three halls with crystal chandeliers and sweeping staircases that are closed to public access except during performances.
You can look up the schedule on their official website but last I checked, the English language button was broken and you have to manually reach out with their contact form for ticket prices and bookings.
Hanoi Opera House
Hours: 7am - 5pm every day of the week
Ticket Prices: shows usually begin at 400,000 VND but can vary
Time Commitment: 1.5-2 hours to catch a show or 30 minutes to just admire it from the outside
Learn About Vietnamese History At The Vietnam National Museum of History
One block from Hanoi Opera House is the Vietnam National Museum of History.
This museum was founded in the 1930s and is actually two separate buildings.
One building highlights Vietnamese history from ancient Paleolithic times until colonial rule and the second building features more modern history (colonialism until present times).
I always recommend that first time visitors stop by this museum because it gives context to everything else that you’ll see during your trip. The Vietnam National Museum of History is on the smaller side and some of the artifacts require further explanation, but it's a cheap visit that enhances your overall Vietnam trip.
Vietnam National Museum Of History
Hours: 8 AM–12 PM, 1:30–5 PM Tuesday - Sunday
Ticket Prices: 40,000VND for adults with additional fees for photography and videography
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Celebrate Women At The Vietnamese Women's Museum
The Museum of Vietnamese Women celebrates their accomplishments in society and history. If you haven't had a chance to visit the one in Ho Chi Minh City, then I highly recommend that you check this one out.
This museum features four floors of exhibits that balance video presentations and static displays.
It highlights the different roles of Vietnamese women: everything from the daily lives of street vendors and handicraft artisans supporting their families to the country's most iconic war heroes.
One thing that set this museum apart from the one in Ho Chi Minh City, was its exhibit on family life which dived into the cultural implications of marriage and birth as well as the rising crisis of single motherhood.
I think it's rare that we see a country acknowledge (much less celebrate) women within their society, so this museum was a heartwarming experience that made me appreciate Vietnam a little more.
Vietnamese Women's Museum
Hours: 8 AM– 5 PM every day of the week
Ticket Prices: 40,000VND for adults
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Learn About Hardships At The Hoa Lo Prison
The Hoa Lo Prison was built by the French in the 1800s to house political dissidents in Indochina. It was later used by North Vietnam to hold U.S. prisoners of war and was colloquially called the "Hanoi Hilton."
This sad and somber museum preserves what's left of the prison with comprehensive exhibits showcasing haunting stories from French and American occupation.
The museum is sectioned out in two main exhibits: one featuring the pre-1954 colonial period and the other highlighting the American experience.
I recommend renting an audio guide to get a more granular understanding of the living conditions, hardships, and torture that political prisoners experienced.
Hoa Lo Prison
Hours: 8 AM– 5 PM every day of the week
Ticket Prices: 50,000VND for adults
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours
Visit The Art Galleries Of French Quarter
Hanoi French Quarter is also an artistic neighborhood home to a lot of independent art galleries.
Some popular ones include:
The Muse Art Space: features a wide variety of local artists working with lacquer
Green Palm Gallery: highlights contemporary Vietnamese artists like Hong Viet Dung
Nguyen Art Gallery: displays paintings using many traditional Vietnamese mediums
M Space Gallery: showcases works from promising young artists across Asia and Europe
Supporting independent artists is one of the best ways to contribute directly to the local community and to travel more responsibly.
You not only learn about the contemporary art scene in Hanoi, but also make genuine local connections and potentially get to pick up a cool gift for family and friends.
French Quarter Art Galleries
Hours: varies depending on the art gallery
Ticket Prices: N/A
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Visit The Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is an iconic yellow government building that is historically and politically significant.
It was built in 1906 to house the French governor-general of Indochina and even now serves as the residence for the president of Vietnam.
It's a functional building used for official government meetings and receptions so it's closed to visitors, but you can visit Ho Chi Minh's stilt house and the surrounding grounds to get a sense for what it's like.
Presidential Palace, Hanoi
Hours: 7 AM–4 PM Monday - Friday
Ticket Prices: 40,000VND for foreign adults
Time Commitment: 30 min - 1 hour
Admire The Architecture Of St. Joseph's Cathedral
St. Joseph's Cathedral is the oldest church in Hanoi and is one of the first buildings constructed by the French colonial government in Indochina.
It was inspired by the Notre Dame in Paris and is designed in a late 19th century Gothic Revival style featuring an exterior made with granite slabs and an interior highlighting tall stained glass windows with pointed arches.
I simply admired the church from the outside but you can also step inside during Mass for a more intimate experience.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
Hours: (Mass) Monday - Friday: 5:30 AM, 6:15 AM | Saturday: 6 PM | Sunday: 5, 7, 9, 11 AM & 4, 6, 8 PM
Ticket Prices: Free
Time Commitment: 30 min - 1 hour
Go Shopping At Trang Tien Plaza
Hanoi French Quarter is not only famous for its museums and landmark buildings, but also for boutique shopping.
Trang Tien Plaza is a historic 120-year-old building with six floors that has now been transformed into an upscale shopping mall.
Spend your afternoon admiring the architecture and buying luxury goods from international brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier.
Trang Tien Plaza
Hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM Monday - Friday | 9:30 AM - 10:00 PM Saturday & Sunday
Ticket Prices: N/A
Time Commitment: 1 hour +
Grab A Drink & People Watch At Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel
If you're looking for a blend of luxury and history, then look no further than the five-star Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel.
This colonial hotel opened in 1901 as the Grand Métropole Hotel and has had a long-standing history of visits from influential figures.
Book a stay in one of their prestigious suites or simply grab a cocktail at Bamboo Bar by the pool to soak up the ambiance.
Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Hotel
Hours: all hours (bar open from 6am - 11pm)
Ticket Prices: N/A
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Where To Eat And Drink In Hanoi French Quarter
I mentioned earlier that you can take a street food tour of the neighborhood, but if you've decided to DIY it for yourself, here are some notable restaurants, cafes, and bars to check out.
Restaurants
Bún Chả Hương Liên: this Michelin Selected establishment is where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain famously shared their $6 dinner. Enjoy a signature bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles) with some delicious deep fried spring rolls.
Luk Lak: located within walking distance from the Opera House, this Michelin Bib Gourmand awarded restaurant serves up classic countryside dishes with a modern twist. Dine on signatures like Ga Nuong Tu Le (grilled chicken with lime leaves served with sticky rice) or Tom Phu Sa (braised shrimp in a warming sauce served with bread).
Backstage: enjoy Northern Vietnamese cuisine in a unique opera-themed restaurant. Set in the five-star Capella Hanoi hotel, this restaurant's opulent interiors and attentive service are sure to leave a lasting memory.
Chả Cá Hàng Sơn 15 Trần Hưng Đạo: for a more humble experience, try Hanoi's iconic turmeric fish with dill (Chả Cá Lã Vọng) at the aptly named Chả Cá Hàng Sơn 15 Trần Hưng Đạo. This no-frills restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike.
Hummingbird Craft Beer Restaurant & Brunch: sometimes you just want something familiar. If you're visiting during the daytime, why not grab a bite at Hummingbird? This restaurant serves up classic (western) brunch dishes in a relaxing tropicana setting.
Cafes
VOU Cafe - Tông Đản: this spacious two-story cafe is perfect for all occasions. Whether you're going on a coffee date, want to just chill, or need to get work done, their strong coffee drinks and delectable tiramisu make them a strong contender for the best cafe in Hanoi French Quarter.
A Good Day Cafe: egg coffee, sidewalk tea, and people watching...is there anything more Hanoi? A Good Day Cafe is a small local establishment with warm service and delicious drinks.
Tà tà Cafe: located in a vintage French-style villa, this aesthetic coffee shop is truly a hidden gem in the city. Seats are limited so get there early!
L'etage Cafe: this small cafe is hidden on the second floor of an apartment building but the confusing directions deter you! Their coffee is strong and with direct views over Hoàn Kiếm Lake, it's a coffee shop worth checking out!
Tranquil Books & Coffee - 15B Tran Hung Dao: this chain is well-known for a reason. With delicious coffee, a cozy and atmospheric vibe, and plenty of books to enjoy, you can easily spend an afternoon here.
Bars
Binh Minh's Jazz Club: owned by one of Hanoi's most famous jazz musicians, Quyen Van Minh. This jazz club features nightly performances in an intimate and old school setting.
The Haflington: this three-story craft cocktail bar in an old French colonial home is Vietnam's first bar to ever rank on the prestigious Asia's 50 Best Bars list. With knowledgeable bartenders and a vibe that can't be beat, this bar is a must-visit for nightlife enthusiasts.
Nectar Hideaway: Speakeasy Rooftop Cocktails Bar: hidden away in a small alleyway, this fourth floor speakeasy offers whimsical cocktails with views of the Opera House.
Wong Bar Wine: in a city where cocktails dominate, Wong Bar Wine offers a great selection of wine to be enjoyed in an intimate setting.
Terraço Sky Bar: if you're looking for views of the city, look no further than Terraço Sky Bar. This rooftop bar is set atop La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel & Spa and offers perfectly crafted cocktails, chill music, and remarkable service.
Best Hotels In Hanoi French Quarter by Budget
Most first-time visitors opt to stay in Old Quarter, but if you're looking for a quieter experience, then the French Quarter is a great option.
Here's where to stay to stay in Hanoi French Quarter by budget.
Budget:
Affa Boutique Hotel: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | newly renovated with a stylish bar | Book Now
Green Mosaic Homestay: ⭐️⭐️ | spacious homestay with a balcony and kitchenette | Book Now
Opera House Suites: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | comfortable and modern with courtyard or city views | Book Now
Mid-Range:
Conifer Boutique Hotel: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | boutique hotel with a gourmet breakfast and modern amenities | Book Now
Studio Villa: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ | studio flat with access to pool, laundry, gym, hot tub, and parking | Book Now
Silk Path Boutique Hanoi: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | classic boutique hotel with airport transfer and breakfast | Book Now
Luxury:
Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - Mgallery: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️️ | luxury hotel with rooftop pool and deck and bespoke services | Book Now
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hotel: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️️ | newly renovated luxury hotel with historic importance | Book Now
Capella Hanoi: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐️️ | the ultimate luxury hotel with over 150 years of history | Book Now
The French Quarter in Hanoi is a safe neighborhood that is best explored on foot. Most of the attractions can be seen in an afternoon so I recommend pairing it with a short day trip outside of the city to cultural villages like the Hanoi Incense Village or even West Lake.
When you're all done with your adventures in the capital, head to the east to enjoy the beaches of Ha Long Bay or take a bus into the mountains of Ha Giang and Sapa for some quiet time in nature.
Hanoi is truly such a vibrant city rich in history and culture and I hope that this travel guide provided you with some direction on how to make the most of your trip!
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