About this experience
Discover hidden culinary gems as you walk through the narrow alleys and bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, a historic district known for its centuries-old architecture. Indulge in the flavours of local cuisine as you make stops at traditional restaurants specialising in classic Vietnamese dishes such as pillow cakes, shrimp cakes, pho rolls, spring rolls, and more. Along the way, catch a glimpse of the St. Joseph Cathedral and capture the charm of its colonial architecture.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Hotel pickup
~15 minShared transfer collects you from your Old Quarter hotel at 8:45 AM (morning tour) or 12:45 PM (afternoon tour).
Tour begins in the Old Quarter
~15 minYour guide leads you into the historic lanes, setting the scene for Hanoi's street food culture.
Traditional restaurant tasting stop
Sit down at a local restaurant to sample classic Vietnamese dishes including pillow cake, fried cake, and spring rolls.
St. Joseph Cathedral
Pause at this 19th-century cathedral for photos of its striking neo-Gothic façade amid the Old Quarter streetscape.
Banh cuon cooking demonstration
Watch chefs steam and fill delicate rice noodle sheets, then taste the result straight from the kitchen.
Pho tasting
Settle in for a bowl of Vietnamese pho — the city's most iconic dish — at a spot chosen by your guide.
Train Street (optional add-on)
If you chose the train street option, visit the narrow residential track and enjoy an egg coffee while the train passes.
Return transfer to hotel
Shared drop-off returns you to your Old Quarter hotel by approximately 12:00–12:30 PM (morning) or 4:00–4:30 PM (afternoon).
Meeting point
Hang Bong, Old Quarter, Hang Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Your pickup will come to your Old Quarter hotel. Confirm your exact hotel address at the time of booking so the transfer can be arranged. Have your booking confirmation ready on your phone.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Mobile booking confirmation
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Small amount of local cash for any personal extras
- Camera or phone for photos
Know before you go
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly does the tour start — do I need to go to a meeting point?
No. A shared transfer picks you up directly from your hotel in Hanoi's Old Quarter. Just confirm your hotel address when you book.
What dishes will I actually eat?
The tasting is subject to availability on the day, but typically includes banh mi, pillow cake, traditional fried cake, spring rolls, pho, bun cha, bun thang, and a sweet soup or yogurt dessert — up to eight dishes in total.
What is the difference between the standard tour and the train street option?
The train street option adds a visit to Hanoi's famous narrow railway lane, where you watch a train pass at close range, and includes egg coffee while you wait. The tour runs approximately 30 minutes longer as a result.
Is this suitable for children?
Yes. Children under 4 travel free of charge, though no seat will be reserved for them on the transfer. Older children are welcome and the food stops are generally family-friendly.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No — a mobile ticket on your phone is accepted. Simply show your booking confirmation at pickup.
What happens if the weather is bad or traffic is heavy?
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather or traffic conditions, but the tour will proceed. Your guide will manage any changes on the day.
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Free cancellation.Cancel up to 24 hours before your tour start time for a full refund.