Hanoi , Vietnam

French Quarter Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Hanoi’s French quarter, the grid of streets south of Hoan Kiem Lake, is unique amongst Asian capital cities. It is packed with buildings from different eras in the city’s history. It features ancient pagodas; classical European architecture; international modernist architecture (avant-garde Art Deco residences) as well as a fusion between Asian and French style architecture. Each of these styles is a tangible sign of the ideological shifts, which have influenced Vietnamese culture over the centuries. Much more than just bricks and mortar, they are monuments to the vision of French, Vietnamese and Soviet thinkers and architects.

Available options

French quarter tour

customize your own tour

full day tour <br/>Duration: 4 hours<br/>lunch<br/>base on your need

What's included

Snacks

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

We will start our tour in the heart of French quarter. This is also our meeting point. This palace recently re-built by the help Of Xo Viet union. So the Architecture is quite strong and grey. There was another type of architecture insisted before that. We will then find down the mystery of that story by a cup of tea of the street. Our guide will then let you know the important information about the tour. Such as timing, plan in general. And history, time-linen relevant with its evident we will see later in particular.

The beauty of landscape with mixed match architecture from Vietnamese to Chinese, from French to Russian will amaze you how stunning of the history effected to our lifestyle. We will walking through those streets with many French architecture villas in Semi classic, Indohina, Art deco.... Like Train station, train company office, clinic, prison, court house.Some are old and rotten, but some are in great quality. All together have make the experiences more extradinary.

We get on the taxi and go from the first location to the second location. This is the first university of Vietnam, Indochina University where The French government used to teach local about: Medicine, Science, Art, construction, literature.... The beautiful building in Indochina style marked clearly with yellow mustard color. This is the few building in Hanoi that has been built since early 1900 but still have the great condition. There are Universities and 1 museum in this building.

Stop 3

After the universities and the museum, We are walking to the Opera house. This is another very well preserved building. Once you walking into this area. You will not thing that you are in Asian country but somewhere in Europe. All the building in this area has to follow the policy from the Government. They need to build in French architecture style. We will also see the first and most popular hotel in whole indochina: The Metropole hotel. We will also have a look at the Art Deco style of the Indochina bank, Semi classic of Resident superieur du Tonkin by architect Auguste HenriVildieu.

Stop 4

We take the second taxi to the 3rd location which is right on the edge of Old quarter. So from here, you will see clearly the mixed match of the architecture everywhere. This area used to have many catholics families living. This is the biggest church in the North that built by the French in 1887 by the money they raise from the city lottery. The Gothic design with its quality is great and well preserved. Walking inside in any day especially on Sunday morning, you will see 3 different communities participate in different timing: French, English and Vietnamese catholic community.

Stop 5

The 3rd taxi will take us to the last location: Politic area. After had the whole of Vietnam in 1884. The French government had built a lot of facilities in this area. Including President palace, Indochina Finance..... right next to the old Citadel. The area also has many villa which built by the French business. Nowaday, they are using at the Embassy. There are not many Vietnamese residents live in this area.

What's not included

transportation during the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.