Gia Hoi Old Quarter - Image 1
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Gia Hoi Old Quarter

4.4
·124 reviews·Thị xã Hương Trà, Vietnam

Step back in time in Gia Hoi Old Quarter, a historic trading town near Hue with charming old houses and a tranquil, nostalgic atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Golden hour light on old homes

CrowdLow
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Gia Hoi Old Quarter - Image 1

Gia Hoi Old Quarter

Best Time

Afternoons

Golden hour light on old homes

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Gia Hoi Old Quarter, a historic trading town near Hue with charming old houses and a tranquil, nostalgic atmosphere.

4.4
(124 reviews)

"A nice place for some 'drive by tourism' - it’s a cool place to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

Scooter for Easy Access

Rent a scooter to explore Gia Hoi Old Quarter and nearby areas at your own pace. :motorcycle:

Respect Local Life

Be mindful of residents; this is a living neighborhood, not just a tourist attraction. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Century-Old Houses

Century-Old Houses

Throughout the quarter

Explore the remaining 15 ancient houses, remnants of a prosperous trading past, offering a unique architectural journey.

Historic Trading Port Atmosphere

Historic Trading Port Atmosphere

Along the Perfume River

Feel the echoes of a bustling 17th-century port where Chinese merchants traded rice, salt, and seafood.

Traditional Craftsmen

Traditional Craftsmen

Scattered workshops

Witness revived traditional crafts like conical hat making, incense production, carpentry, and blacksmithing.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Nostalgia

Gia Hoi Old Quarter offers a glimpse into Vietnam's past with its charming old houses and tranquil atmosphere. It's a place for slow exploration, not commercial hustle. Respect local life as you wander through this historic trading town near Hue.

Scooter Recommended for Exploration

While walkable, a scooter allows you to easily navigate Gia Hoi Old Quarter and its surrounding areas. Be prepared for curious looks from locals, as it's not a heavily touristed spot. Enjoy the authentic vibe and historical architecture.

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light on old homes
Crowd
Low
When
Early Mornings
Why
Quiet streets, local life
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sugar town chị Việt Hương @Lúc Anh Lúc Ánh #tiktokgiaitri #ancungtiktok #hoanganhpanda
@hoanganhdeptrailam
197.3K likes • 5.6M views

Scooter for Easy Access

Rent a scooter to explore Gia Hoi Old Quarter and nearby areas at your own pace. :motorcycle: Reddit

Respect Local Life

Be mindful of residents; this is a living neighborhood, not just a tourist attraction. :pray: Reddit

Sự tích ao Bà Ôm tại Trà Vinh #travinh #sutichaobaom #aobaom #dulich #tiktoktravel #bongngomario
@bongngomario
19.2K likes • 627.7K views

Embrace the Slow Pace

Wander leisurely and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. It's about the journey, not just the destination. :walking: Reddit

Capture the History

The old houses and riverfront offer great photo opportunities. :camera: Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Scooter for Easy Access

Rent a scooter to explore Gia Hoi Old Quarter and nearby areas at your own pace. :motorcycle: Reddit

Respect Local Life

Be mindful of residents; this is a living neighborhood, not just a tourist attraction. :pray: Reddit

Embrace the Slow Pace

Wander leisurely and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. It's about the journey, not just the destination. :walking: Reddit

Capture the History

The old houses and riverfront offer great photo opportunities. :camera: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(124 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is praised for its authentic, nostalgic atmosphere and preserved historic houses, offering a peaceful glimpse into Vietnam's past. While some find it less commercialized than expected, its charm lies in its quiet, residential feel and historical significance. It's a place for slow exploration and appreciating local life.

"Bao Vinh is an old trading town near Hue with charming houses and nostalgic atmosphere. Walking through its narrow streets felt like a journey into the past. The blend of local life and history is wonderful. I enjoyed every step here, and I’ll definitely recommend my friends to explore Bao Vinh."

Hien Nguyen

"This is just an ordinary residential neighborhood with some old houses still preserved. The style of the houses is somewhat similar to Hoi An, but the street is short, and not many families have kept their original homes, so it’s not a tourist destination with a strong commercial vibe. When visiting here, people should maintain a simple mindset of sightseeing and exploration."

Phuong Anh Tran Le

"A nice place for some “drive by tourism”.😁 it’s a cool place to see. Really recommend if you have a scooter here that you just drive through, you’ll get some awkward looks as these doesent seem to be visited by many foreigners. But either way it’s a cool place worth seeing. Not sure if there’s anything to stop at here but make sure to respect the locals either way ;)"

Svan

What People Like

Authentic atmosphere
Historic houses
Peaceful exploration

What People Dislike

Limited commercial activity
Some houses in disrepair

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is located about 5km northeast of Hue, along the Perfume River. The easiest way to get there is by renting a scooter or hiring a taxi/Grab. Many visitors find it a pleasant ride, especially if they enjoy scenic routes. Reddit

While it's possible to walk, it's a considerable distance (around 5km). It's more practical to use a scooter, bicycle, or a short taxi/Grab ride to reach Gia Hoi Old Quarter from Hue's main attractions. Reddit

Once you're in Gia Hoi Old Quarter, exploring on foot is ideal for appreciating the details of the old houses. However, a scooter is recommended for getting there and for exploring the wider vicinity. Reddit

Public buses might be available, but they are often less convenient for tourists compared to taxis or ride-sharing services like Grab. Renting a scooter offers the most flexibility. Reddit

By scooter or car, the journey from Hue city center to Gia Hoi Old Quarter typically takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Gia Hoi Old Quarter is a residential area and a historic district, so there are no entrance fees. You can wander freely through its streets and admire the architecture. Reddit

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is accessible at any time, as it's a living neighborhood. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and for photography. Reddit

Visiting in the late afternoon or early morning offers beautiful light for photos and a more peaceful atmosphere. You'll see locals going about their day. Reddit

While not as common as tours for other Hue attractions, some local guides might offer personalized tours. It's best to inquire locally or through your accommodation. Reddit

Some of the remaining old houses are private residences. While you can admire them from the outside, it's important to be respectful and not intrude. Some may be open to visitors, but this is not guaranteed. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is known for its preserved century-old houses, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's trading history. You can wander the streets, observe local life, and appreciate the unique architecture. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The old houses, narrow streets, and riverside setting provide excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Reddit

Once a bustling port in the 17th century, it was a key trading hub for Chinese merchants. Its decline coincided with Hue's loss of capital status, but it retains historical charm. Reddit

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is not a major tourist hotspot, so you'll likely encounter fewer tourists than in more popular areas. This contributes to its authentic and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

Expect a nostalgic and tranquil atmosphere. It feels like stepping back in time, with a blend of historical architecture and the quiet rhythm of local daily life. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is primarily a residential area, so you won't find many formal restaurants or cafes. It's best to explore Hue's city center for a wider dining selection. Reddit

You might find some small local eateries or street food vendors, especially during certain times of the day. However, options are limited compared to more commercial areas. Reddit

For a broader range of dining experiences, head back towards Hue city center. You'll find numerous restaurants offering Vietnamese cuisine, seafood, and international options. Reddit

It's more about the experience of exploring the historic quarter. For a diverse culinary experience, it's advisable to dine in Hue's main tourist areas. Reddit

The region around Hue is known for its imperial cuisine, delicate flavors, and specialties like Banh Beo, Banh Nam, and Bun Bo Hue. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The preserved century-old houses with their unique architecture are prime subjects. The narrow streets and the Perfume Riverfront also offer picturesque views. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) provide the most beautiful light for capturing the charm of the old houses and streets. Reddit

Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of residents' privacy. Avoid taking intrusive photos of people in their homes. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wider street scenes and details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can also be great for streetscapes. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in residential areas and near historical sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gia Hoi Old Quarter offers a unique educational experience for families, allowing children to see a different side of Vietnamese history and daily life. While there aren't specific child-centric attractions, the quiet streets are safe for a leisurely stroll. Encourage kids to observe the traditional houses and perhaps spot local artisans at work. Reddit

Consider bringing a scooter or bicycle for easier navigation with younger children. Pack snacks and water, as dining options are limited within the quarter itself. The focus here is on a peaceful, historical immersion rather than active entertainment, making it a good option for families seeking a more cultural and less crowded experience. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Gia Hoi Old Quarter is an excellent destination for budget travelers as there are no entrance fees. Exploring the historic streets and admiring the architecture is completely free. Reddit Renting a scooter is a cost-effective way to reach the quarter from Hue and explore the surrounding areas. Reddit

While dining options are scarce within the quarter, you can find affordable local eateries back in Hue's city center. The main expense will likely be transportation. The experience of discovering this less-touristed gem offers significant value for those looking for authentic cultural immersion without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Gia Hoi Old Quarter is a dream. The preserved century-old houses, with their intricate details and weathered facades, offer endless compositional possibilities. Reddit The narrow, winding streets create a sense of depth and history, perfect for capturing atmospheric shots. Reddit

The best times to visit for photography are the 'golden hours'—early morning and late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the textures and colors of the old buildings, creating a magical ambiance. Reddit Be sure to explore the riverfront for different perspectives. Remember to be respectful of residents and their privacy while you capture the essence of this historic trading town. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through History

Gia Hoi Old Quarter, once known as Bao Vinh, was a thriving port city in the 17th century, attracting Chinese merchants who traded essential goods like rice, salt, and seafood. The local artisans were renowned for their craftsmanship, producing coffins, inlaid pearl items, bricks, tiles, and woven handicrafts. This era of prosperity left behind a legacy of unique architecture, with many of the original 39 century-old houses still standing, though some are in a state of disrepair. Reddit

The decline of Bao Vinh's commerce began when Hue ceased to be the capital of Vietnam. However, the spirit of traditional craftsmanship endures. Today, you can still find artisans reviving ancient skills, including the making of iconic conical hats (nón lá), incense sticks, and traditional carpentry and blacksmithing. A slow walk through Gia Hoi offers a tangible connection to Vietnam's rich trading past and its enduring cultural heritage. Reddit

Visitors often describe the experience as stepping back in time, with a nostalgic atmosphere that contrasts with the modern bustle of Hue. It's a place that speaks volumes about Vietnam's history and its current state of affairs, offering a more 'realist version' of the country's evolution. Reddit+1

Navigating Gia Hoi Old Quarter

Getting to Gia Hoi Old Quarter is straightforward, typically a short 15-20 minute ride from Hue city center by scooter or car. Many visitors recommend renting a scooter for the freedom to explore at their own pace and to easily access the area. Reddit While the quarter itself is walkable, a scooter is invaluable for the journey there and for venturing into the surrounding countryside. Reddit

Once you arrive, the charm of Gia Hoi lies in its unhurried exploration. Unlike heavily commercialized tourist spots, this is a living, breathing neighborhood. Visitors often note receiving curious looks from locals, which is part of the authentic experience. Reddit It's important to maintain a respectful mindset, appreciating the local life and historical architecture without intruding. Reddit

For photography enthusiasts, Gia Hoi Old Quarter is a treasure trove. The preserved houses, narrow lanes, and the Perfume River provide ample opportunities for capturing evocative images. The best light for photography is often found during the early mornings or late afternoons, when the golden hour bathes the old structures in a warm glow. Reddit

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