Shop a wet market with a local chef in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, then roll up your sleeves in a hands-on cooking class. Learn to make spring rolls, noodle soup and green mango salad using ingredients you select, and finish with egg or coconut coffee.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Walk out of a narrow lane into the thrumming heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter: steam rises from street stalls, vendors call prices for herbs and fish, and baskets of produce spill onto wet pavement. The day begins with a guided stroll through a wet market where the rhythm is brisk — touch, smell, haggle — then moves to a neighborhood kitchen where knives tap and sauces hiss as you prepare a meal from what you’ve chosen.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Light: be able to stand and walk for several hours and handle light chopping and stove work
Wildlife
History
The Old Quarter developed over centuries as a cluster of guild streets tied to the Red River trade; many shop-fronts trace lineage to artisan families.
Conservation
Support vendors who use minimal packaging, avoid single-use plastics in markets, and take leftovers or compost where possible to reduce food waste.
Reserve your spot on the Old Quarter Market Tour and Cooking Class with Meal in Hanoi today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Carry small bills for market snacks
Vendors often prefer cash for quick tastings and small purchases — keep 100,000–200,000 VND in small notes.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Market floors can be wet and uneven; solid shoes protect your feet during the market walk.
Declare allergies and dietary needs ahead of time
Vegetarian or allergy requests can usually be accommodated if the operator knows before the class.
Hydrate and eat lightly before class
You’ll be on your feet sampling and cooking for several hours — bring a water bottle or plan to purchase drinks.
Closed-toe, non-slip shoes
Protects feet in wet market alleys and during the kitchen portion.
Small-denomination cash (VND)
Useful for market tastings, small purchases, and tips.
Reusable tote or produce bag
Handy for carrying any ingredients or souvenirs from the market.
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Monsoon season brings short, heavy showers — a compact rain layer keeps you comfortable.
summer