Most beautiful streets in Hanoi for photography
Hanoi is a city where every corner tells a story. Among its lively streets and nostalgic corner, some streets stand out as the most photogenic. Whether you are a professional photographer, an Instagram enthusiast, or simply someone who loves capturing memories,…these streets will give you the perfect backdrop.
Let’s explore these routes together with Hanoi e.Buddies!
Hanoi e.Buddies members taking pictures on Doc Lap Street
1. Hàng Mã Street – A Festival of Colours
Hang Ma Street is one of the streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The name Hang Ma comes from the Vietnamese custom of burning votive paper, also known as “hóa vàng”. This tradition is rooted in the belief that “What’s in the mortal world is also in the afterlife“. Meaning the deceased still have needs similar to those on Earth. Therefore, family and friends buy and burn votive paper to send to them.
Colorful decorations lining Hang Ma street during Tet Festival in Hanoi
Established during the Le dynasty along with 36 other ancient streets, the residents of Hang Ma specialized in producing and selling items for ceremonies and rituals, collectively known as votive paper. Among these were paper horses, which symbolized luck and prosperity.
Hang Ma Street is decorated with string flags and colorful carp ornaments to celebrate National Day of Vietnam
Today, Hang Ma Street is a vibrant and colorful hub filled with unique decorative items that attract many visitors. It’s especially lively during major holidays: a sea of red for Tet (Lunar New Year), sparkling lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival, spooky decorations for Halloween, and festive cheer for Christmas. Hang Ma now sells not only votive items but also a dazzling array of decorations and lanterns, making it a truly brilliant and magnificent place.
A shop on Hang Ma Street displays the slogan “Independence – Freedom – Happiness” to celebrate Vietnam’s National Day on September 2nd
2. Phan Đình Phùng Street – Where Trees Create Green Tunnels
Phan Dinh Phung Street is known as the most romantic and poetic street in Hanoi. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and architecture. With its long rows of ancient trees, classic French villas, and peaceful atmosphere. The street feels like a step back in time to an old Hanoi full of nostalgia and charm.
Hanoi e.Buddies member Hazel in traditional white Ao Dai on Phan Dinh Phung Street
Each season brings a different beauty to Phan Dinh Phung Street. The most beautiful times are definitely summer and autumn. In summer, the air is fresh, and the two rows of lush green dracotomelon trees create a magnificent shady tunnel. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow and fall gently, and the cool weather creates a poignant, nostalgic feeling. Along this street, you’ll also often spot women in traditional white ao dai, posing for photos next to colorful flower bicycles.
Flowers bicycles on Phan Dinh Phung Street
3. Độc Lập Street – Echoes of History
Just as its name, which means “Independence,” suggests, this road is imbued with the spirit of Vietnamese national pride. From Doc Lap Road, visitors have a perfect view of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. Nearby stands the National Assembly House, with its classic French architecture.
Hanoi ekip.Buddies in Ao dai at Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
Beyond its spacious and open feel, Doc Lap Road carries historical significance and sits among many important landmarks. For this reason, it has become a popular spot for both young Hanoians and tourists to check in and take photos.
Hanoi e.Buddies members Lea and Lili striking poses in Ao dai and conical hats on Doc Lap Street
4. Thanh Niên Street – Romance by the Lakeside
Locals call Thanh Nien street or Youth Lake the “Road of love“. This street lies between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, about 3km northwest of Hoan Kiem Lake. Lined with lush green trees, it creates a serene and romantic atmosphere for walkers, cyclists, and couples strolling hand in hand.
The Artistic and Everyday Beauty of Thanh Nien Street
Every year around March, Thanh Nien Road is covered in the stunning purple blossoms of the orchid tree from the Northwest. The delicate purple and white flowers bloom across the trees. As a result, the road feels even more poetic. In addition, their gentle colors make the scene utterly breathtaking and romantic.
Thanh Nien Street is a favorite photo spot for our Hanoi e.Buddies member Grace.
5. Phùng Hưng Street – Murals that Tell Stories
The first time you visit Phung Hung Street, its fairytale like beauty will completely captivate you. The vibrant murals feel like a time machine, taking me back to Hanoi’s past. To immerse yourself in this artistic space, listening to stories told through paintings, and experiencing a slow, peaceful pace of life in the middle of a bustling city is truly an amazing feeling.
Street vendors walk along the Phung Hung Mural Street
Walking down Phung Hung Street, you will see French style houses with charming balconies, arched windows, and elegant details. This nostalgic beauty blends seamlessly with the modern murals, creating a truly captivating architectural masterpiece.
The vibrant lanterns on Phung Hung Mural Street bring a festive touch to Hanoi’s old quarter.
Want more photogenic spots in Hanoi?
These are some of our top picks for the most photogenic streets in Hanoi. If you’re excited to explore and snap some photos at these spots but aren’t sure how to get there. Don’t worry! Hanoi e.Buddies has got you covered. We’ll make sure to take you to these Instagram worthy streets during our City tours and Old Quarter walking tours.
And of course, Hanoi isn’t just about these few streets. There are plenty of other beautiful places waiting to be discovered. So why not join us on our free tours and explore them all together?
Start your photography journey in Hanoi today
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