Ta Hien Street is considered the beating heart of Hanoi’s nightlife. Millions of tourists come here every year to enjoy a dynamic atmosphere filled with the buzz of conversation, the aroma of mouth-watering street food, and especially, the clinking of glasses.
Follow Vietnamtour.in today to discover the ins and outs of Hanoi’s after-dark charm. Grab our traveling tactics to ensure your visit is fun and memorable!
About Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street is located in the middle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. In its early days, this lane was a bunch of smaller streets. Then, during the French colonial period, these streets were combined and called Rue Géraud. But people who lived there knew it as Quang Lac Alley, after Hanoi’s famous theater. Until 1945, it was named Ta Hien, as it is today.
One of the captivating aspects of Ta Hien Street is the fusion of two distinct architectural styles. The rustic buildings here are a testament to the rich history of this place, blending the typical Vietnamese vibe with a hint of French facade, creating a unique visual experience.
Pottery and pots used to be the mainstay of Ta Hien Street, but now it is better known for its beers and hot street food. You can easily see diverse food stalls dishing out everything from pho and noodles to cold beers and snacks, making it a lively spot for both locals and tourists.
How to get there
Here are the three most convenient ways to get to Ta Hien Street:
- By bus: If you desire a budget-friendly option, hop on bus number 09 or 36, which has a stop near Ta Hien
- By taxi: Taking a taxi offers a quick and comfortable ride. You can also book a cab or bike through popular ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM. It takes only 10-15 minutes to Ta Hien Street (from the city center)
- By motorbike: We don’t recommend renting a car to visit Ta Hien due to the small streets, heavy traffic, and limited parking. Riding a motorbike is a better option.
Best Time To Visit
Ta Hien Street truly comes alive in the evening. So, the ideal time to visit is between 6:00 PM and onwards. This is when neon lights are on, food stalls open, and people gather to grab drinks while chatting.
However, this street still offers a delightful experience during the day. It’s an ideal place to wander and enjoy the charming buildings and the peaceful local lifestyle.
What To Expect On Ta Hien Street
Immerse Yourself In The Vibrant Atmosphere
Ta Hien Street might be just a short block, but it bursts with fun. As soon as you walk onto the street, you feel a wave of energy and excitement. Imagine a scene in which strings of colored lanterns and stall lights shine along the alley, giving it a lively and warm glow.
There is also live music that livens the atmosphere. Sometimes, visitors can join or convince the band to play their favorite songs (it is worth a shot!).
But the music is just the beginning. What makes you more excited is the vibrant mix of locals and tourists all chilling out together. You will be impressed by the playful sounds of conversations, laughter, clinking glasses, and the sizzling of street food. It is not exaggerated to say that Ta Hien is an all-in-one entertainment complex (but in a comfortable and friendly way!).
Taste Draft Beer – The One-of-a-kind Drink In Ha Noi
Here comes the essence of Ta Hien Street – Bia Hoi (fresh beer). This famous beer is brewed using traditional Vietnamese methods, boasting uniqueness in its freshness. Bia Hoi is often served right from the keg, offering a clean taste that is bursting with flavor.
Picture this: You are pulling up a plastic chair on the bustling street with a frosty glass of beer in your hand. Every sip will be a refreshing taste that helps you cool down after a hot day of exploring Hanoi. So, whether you’re a beer lover or a curious non-drinker, this is a must-try!
Beer here is rather cheap. You can get a tall glass of cold draft beer with only 10,000 – 15,000 VND (under $1). For those who desire to taste labeled Vietnam beer (e.g., 333, Heineken), the price is around 15,000 – 25,000 VND for each bottle. Some local-favorite beer stalls that you should visit are Bia Pho Co (18 Ta Hien), Mat To (19-23 Luong Ngoc Quyen), Zo 26 (26 Ta Hien), and Bia Pho (37B Ta Hien).
Enjoy The Booming Flavors Of Street Food
Do you want to elevate your drinking experience to the next level? Ta Hien Street is a paradise for street food enthusiasts!
The food here is varied and mostly affordable. Each dish is a delightful surprise, showcasing the creativity of Vietnamese cuisine. Coupled with refreshing glasses of beer and a vibrant atmosphere, your culinary journey is sure to leave you speechless!
Here are some of our recommendations:
- Pho: an icon of Hanoi (and Vietnam), which features an aromatic broth, fresh beef/chicken, noodles, and herbs
- Banh mi: a traditional Vietnamese bread filled with eggs, meat, pickles, and fresh vegetables
- Bun dau mam tom: a local favorite featuring vermicelli noodles with fried tofu and a fermented shrimp paste dip
- Bun cha ca: a complicated dish served with vermicelli, grilled fish, basil, and shrimp paste
Explore The Exciting Vibe Of Bars And Clubs
Besides stopping by a stall on the street, you can enter live bars and clubs to enjoy pulsating music and energetic crowds. Here, they also serve beer and classic cocktails alongside local fruits and unique spices.
Some favorite places are:
- Funky B: One of the oldest bars in Hanoi. But it has a modern design and music of diverse variety (e.g., House Deep electronic, Funky House Electronic)
- Prague Pub: An alluring and cozy place to hang out and enjoy beer with friends or family
- 1900 Le Theatre: This bar is known for its harmonic combination of modern and retro architecture; a go-to place for young people in Hanoi to hangout at weekends
Attractions Nearby
- Hoan Kiem Lake: A place of serenity in the heart of Hanoi. Wander around and explore historic attractions, including Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple, and The Huc Red Bridge
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, this Roman Catholic cathedral has an impressive grey color and unique architecture in neo-gothic style
- Hanoi Opera House: A symbol of the culture and architecture of Hanoi. Cultural performances often take place here.
- Hanoi night market: An all-in-one place to shop for everything, from apparel and crafts to fresh and dried foods
Tips When Visiting Ta Hien Street
- Since it is super crowded, wear comfortable clothes that are suitable for the weather and low-heeled shoes for easy movement
- Since most of the food here is quite cheap, cash is still preferred for convenient payment. So, bring some cash (especially change) or an ATM card to withdraw money
- Beware of pickpockets. Avoid carrying too much cash and expensive jewelry, and keep your wallet and phone in a safe place.
- Be careful when participating in the crowded traffic here. Walk on the crosswalk and be aware of your surroundings.
- Drink beers and alcoholic beverages responsibly, and do not drive after drinking
- Although the prices in Ta Hien are quite reasonable, there can still be a difference between the stalls and bars. You should ask for the price clearly before buying and paying.
- Respect the locals and dispose of trash properly
- Go with a local guide to enjoy everything with the most comfort
Wrapping Up
Ta Hien Street is a must-visit for any night lover who seeks a vibe of Hanoi nightlife and treats their taste with flavorful food and beverages. If you desire to explore our capital city yet do not know where to begin, connect with us to book Vietnam tours from India. Your trip will be full of joy and knowledge with the help of our tour guide.
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