Vietnam, a country rich in tradition and history, is not only famous for its majestic landscapes but also captivates visitors with the ancient beauty of its old towns. Here, time seems to stand still, preserving unique cultural and architectural values, taking us back in history to discover the glorious stories of the nation.
Dong Van Old Quarter – Ha Giang: Unique Charm Amidst the Stone Plateau
When mentioning the most beautiful ancient towns in Vietnam, Dong Van Old Quarter cannot be overlooked, a hidden gem nestled amidst the rocky plateau of Ha Giang. Located at an altitude of 1000 to 1600 meters above sea level, Dong Van is not only a famous destination in the district but also a cultural crossroads of many ethnic groups.
Ancient houses nestled on the mountainside in Dong Van Old Quarter
Formed in the early 20th century, Dong Van was initially inhabited by the Hmong, Tay, and Hoa ethnic groups. Later, other ethnic groups such as Dao, Nung, Kinh… converged here to settle down, creating a more crowded and bustling town. The ancient houses, hundreds of years old, with distinctive yin and yang tile roofs, nestled at the foot of limestone mountains, bring a simple, close, and culturally rich beauty.
Visiting Dong Van Old Quarter, tourists can visit local-style cafes, shop for handmade souvenirs, and enjoy Thang Co, corn wine, and Ha Giang specialties. In particular, staying overnight here will help you fully experience the ancient beauty and peacefulness of this town.
Hanoi Old Quarter: The Soul of a Thousand-Year-Old Civilization
Hanoi Old Quarter is one of the most famous ancient towns in Vietnam, located in the east of Thang Long Imperial Citadel. This quarter belongs to Hoan Kiem district and is a favorite destination for tourists exploring the capital.
Narrow streets and French colonial architecture in Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi, a land of a thousand years of civilization, preserves ancient beauties imbued with the colors of time. Hanoi Old Quarter covers an area of about 100 hectares, including 76 streets. The streets here are named after traditional craft villages from ancient times, often starting with the word “Hang” (meaning “goods” or “street of”), such as Hang Bong (Cotton Street), Hang Dao (Silk Street), Hang Gai (Hemp Street), Hang Ma (Paper Street), Hang Tre (Bamboo Street), Hang Thiec (Tin Street)… Each “Hang” usually sells a specific item, creating diversity and richness for the quarter.
Strolling along the ancient streets, visitors have the opportunity to admire the ancient beauty of old Hanoi, immerse themselves in the bustling trading atmosphere of the people, and rediscover memories of the life of ancient Thang Long people. Hanoi Old Quarter is not only a place to visit but also a place to experience and feel the slow, peaceful pace of life of the capital.
Hoi An Ancient Town: A World Cultural Heritage Site
When mentioning the most beautiful ancient towns in Vietnam, Hoi An cannot be missed. This place is not only a famous destination in Vietnam but also a world-renowned ancient town, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site since 1999.
Hoi An Old Quarter at night, illuminated by colorful lanterns
Hoi An Old Quarter is located along both banks of the Hoai River, about 30 km southwest of Da Nang city. This quarter was built from the 16th century and still exists today. In the past, Hoi An was once the busiest trading port in Vietnam, a place of trade for merchants from all over the world.
Coming to Hoi An, visitors have the opportunity to rediscover the golden age of history, experience attractive tourist activities, and feel the nostalgic beauty through the houses, alleys, and moss-covered architectural works. Whether cycling, riding a cyclo, walking, or boating on the Hoai River, you can admire the unique beauty of the old town with its yellow walls, mossy tiled roofs, and vibrant bougainvillea trellises.
Hoi An offers a contemplative beauty right by the romantic Hoai River. Visitors to Hoi An often share that they can slow down, leisurely stroll each morning, sip coffee, watch Hoi An sparkle when the lights come on every evening, and slowly explore famous places such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, Assembly Halls…
Especially, during the journey to explore Hoi An Old Quarter, visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy Quang Nam specialties such as Cao Lau, Chicken Rice, Mi Quang, Banh Mi, Sweet Soup, Tofu Pudding, Stir-fried Mussels, Banh Beo Chen…
Bao Vinh Old Quarter: Traces of an Ancient Trading Port
In the list of beautiful ancient towns in Vietnam, Bao Vinh Old Quarter in Hue is also an interesting destination, preserving many memories of bygone days. Bao Vinh is located north of Hue Citadel, about 3 km from the city center. This place was once the busiest trading port of the ancient capital.
Ancient houses with distinctive Hue architecture in Bao Vinh Old Quarter
Formed in the 17th century, Bao Vinh Old Quarter was once an important trading hub, welcoming foreign merchants from Japan, China, Macau, India, and Europe to trade. The people of the old town also developed prosperous craft villages making bricks, tiles, mosaics…
Through the upheavals of time, this old town gradually lost its traditional crafts. However, local residents still try to preserve the houses and doorways as a way to commemorate the golden age. Thanks to preserving that beauty, Bao Vinh Old Quarter was chosen as the setting for the movie ‘Dreamy Eyes’.
Before the flow of urbanization, the peaceful ancient Bao Vinh is gradually giving way to new, spacious, and modern buildings. The intersection of old and new creates a beauty full of nostalgia. When you come to Hue, visit Bao Vinh Old Quarter once to admire the beauty of the remaining ancient buildings.
The most beautiful ancient towns in Vietnam are all places that preserve the traditional beauty of ancient architecture, preserving the cultural and culinary imprints that previous generations worked hard to build. Exploring these old towns, you will have a memorable journey, returning to your roots and learning more about the history and culture of the nation.