Travel Guide: KemKay Old Quarter, Hanoi

Introduction

Tucked in the beating heart of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, KemKay Old Quarter delivers the best of Vietnamese capital travel: unbeatable walkability, thoughtful comforts, and a cozy home base for exploring tangled laneways, centuries-old temples, and iconic street food stalls. Whether you’re a first-time backpacker navigating Southeast Asia or a slow traveler chasing Hanoi’s timeless charm, this boutique property positions you perfectly to experience the city’s magic, without sacrificing the modern conveniences that make a trip feel relaxed.

Hotel Overview

KemKay Old Quarter is located at 51 Hàng Bè, Hoàn Kiếm District, right in the center of Hanoi’s most famous neighborhood. This smoke-friendly (with designated smoking areas) property offers all non-smoking allergy-friendly guest rooms, fitted with plush extended-length beds, air conditioning, complimentary free Wi-Fi across the entire hotel, and flat-screen TVs with Netflix and cable for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Choose between private or shared bath options, both stocked with free toiletries, a hairdryer, and bidet facilities for your comfort. Shared facilities include a fully equipped simple kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, washing machine, and electric kettle, perfect for travelers who love to prep quick meals or store leftover street food. A sun-drenched rooftop terrace with outdoor seating offers unbeatable views of the Old Quarter’s terracotta rooftops and nearby landmarks, while extra amenities include 24-hour front desk service, luggage storage, currency exchange, paid airport transfers, bike rental, and a paid on-site spa offering美容 treatments for sore sightseeing muscles. Note that there is no on-site parking, so guests arriving by private car should arrange parking nearby in advance.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable attractions are all within a 10-minute walk of the hotel:

• Hoàn Kiếm Lake: Just five minutes away, this serene urban lake is Hanoi’s cultural heart, home to the iconic Turtle Tower and the 11th-century Ngọc Sơn Temple. Join local residents for an early morning tai chi session, or wander the shaded paths at sunset to watch street musicians perform.
• Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Lane: Three minutes from the hotel, Hàng Bè Street itself is lined with bustling street stalls serving phở bò, bún chả, and egg coffee. Join locals at plastic stools for an authentic meal that costs less than $2 USD.
• St. Joseph's Cathedral of Hanoi: A 10-minute walk from the hotel, this 19th-century Gothic cathedral boasts soaring stained-glass windows and a sprawling leafy plaza popular for coffee and people-watching. Sunday evening mass draws hundreds of worshippers and visitors for a uniquely Hanoi cultural experience.

Travel Tips

Book your airport transfer in advance through the hotel for a seamless arrival; taxis can get caught in Old Quarter traffic, and the hotel’s pre-arranged service drops you directly at the property entrance. If you plan to explore the city by bike, the hotel’s bike rental is cheaper than most street-side kiosks and includes a helmet. Leave heavy bags in the hotel’s free luggage storage if you have an early check-out or late flight, and ask the 24-hour front desk for personalized street food recommendations—they know the best stalls that don’t make tourist guidebooks. Keep in mind that the Old Quarter’s narrow streets can be noisy during the day, but the hotel’s soundproofed allergy-friendly rooms ensure a quiet night’s sleep. For budget travelers, the shared room options offer incredible value, while private suites with terrace access are perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway.