Hanoi's French Quarter: Colonial Architecture, Cafés and a Walking Route
The French Quarter is the part of Hanoi south and south-east of Hoan Kiem Lake that the French colonial administration laid out from the late 19th century: wide avenues, villas, public buildings and grand hotels. You can see it on foot in 2 to 3 hours, free of charge, starting at the Opera House and working your way back to the lake. It is also one of the nicest areas to stay in: quiet, yet only 10 to 15 minutes from the Old Quarter. See also: the Hanoi Opera House, St Joseph's Cathedral, Hoa Lo Prison, the National Museum of History and where to stay in Hanoi.
Highlights
The Opera House
Opened in the early 20th century, the neoclassical building was inspired by the Opéra Garnier in Paris. It is the natural starting point for the walk, on the square where several avenues meet. It may be closed to visits (see its page).
The Sofitel Legend Metropole
A colonial hotel opened in 1901 on Ngo Quyen Street, with the white façade and green shutters typical of the district. You can admire the outside from the pavement; the inside is for guests and tours organised by the hotel.
The colonial villas
Side streets keep villas with tiled roofs and shutters among the trees. Many have become embassies, offices or restaurants: stay on the public road and do not go through the gates.
Trang Tien Street and its cafés
This avenue links the lake to the Opera House: cafés, bookshops and pastry shops. It is a good stop for a coffee before heading back to the Old Quarter or on to St Joseph's Cathedral, 15 minutes' walk to the west.
The museums of the district
The National Museum of History (the former French museum) and Hoa Lo Prison are a few streets away; they have their own pages.
Practical info
Tips
- The walk is free, with no ticket. Heat and humidity are strong in summer: go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Cross the wide avenues at a steady pace, without running: the motorbikes go around you. Restaurants here are generally more expensive than in the Old Quarter; compare menus before sitting down.
How to get there
Hoan Kiem district, between Hoan Kiem Lake and Ly Thuong Kiet and Hai Ba Trung streets. On foot from the Old Quarter (10 to 15 minutes); the Opera House is a good landmark.
Opening hours
Nearby
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