How to Plan Your Top Thing to Do in Hanoi: Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

If you are planning to visit Hanoi for the first time, you will surely be amazed by the city’s rich history, culture, and architecture. To make the most out of your visit, we highly recommend taking the Top Thing to Do in Hanoi: Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to book and prepare for the tour, as well as what to expect during your journey.

Overview of the Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Hanoi’s old quarter. From there, you will proceed to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay your respects to the father of modern Vietnam. After that, you will head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups through art, artifacts, and cultural performances. Next, you will visit Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” where political prisoners were detained during the French colonization and the Vietnam War. From there, you will bike around Hanoi’s old quarter, discovering its hidden alleys, street food, and local life. The highlight of the tour is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, where you will witness the unique art of water puppetry, a traditional Vietnamese art form that originated in the Red River Delta. Puppeteers control the puppets through bamboo rods that are hidden beneath the water, accompanied by live music and storytelling. The tour ends with a Vietnamese-style lunch before the hotel drop-off in Hanoi’s old quarter.

Important Tips for the Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

To fully enjoy the tour, here are some essential tips that you need to know:

Book in Advance

To secure your slot, it is best to book the tour in advance through the tour operator’s official website, such as Viator. The tour’s maximum capacity is 10 people, so the slots can get filled up quickly.

Dress Appropriately

Be sure to wear respectful attire when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and temple. Avoid revealing clothing and shorts, and cover your shoulders and knees.

Bring Sun Protection

Hanoi can get hot and sunny, especially during the summer months. Make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.

Keep Hydrated

It is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially during the bike ride. Bring a water bottle, and the driver or guide will provide drinks, including bottled water and soft drinks, during the tour.

What’s Included in the Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

The tour is all-inclusive, which means that the following are covered in the tour price:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s old quarter
• Lunch in Vietnamese style
• English-speaking guide or driver
• Drinks
• Tip for tour guide and driver
• Items not mentioned above

Meeting and Pickup Points for the Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

You can either head directly to the meeting point, which is at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, or request hotel pickup in Hanoi’s old quarter. The meeting point’s address is: Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
57B P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng Hàng Bạc Hoàn Kiếm Hà Nội Vietnam If you opt for hotel pickup, the driver or guide will pick you up at your hotel in Hanoi’s old quarter. The exact pickup time and location will be arranged by the tour operator upon booking.

Book Your Tour Now

The Top Thing to Do in Hanoi: Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show is an excellent way to explore the city’s highlights and immerse yourself in its unique culture. By following the tips and guidelines we provided, you can prepare for the tour and make the most out of your visit to Hanoi. Book the tour here, and enjoy your journey!

Frequently Asked Questions about Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia known for its charming blend of traditional Vietnamese culture and French colonial architecture. Here are some frequently asked questions about Hanoi that will hopefully help you plan your next trip to this vibrant city:

1. When is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November or from March to April when the weather is mild and dry. During these months, the temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C, and the skies are typically clear. However, keep in mind that Hanoi is a year-round destination, so you can visit anytime of the year depending on your preferences.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Hanoi?

There are many things to see and do in Hanoi, but some of the must-see attractions include:

a. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum:

This is the final resting place of the Vietnamese revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh. Visitors can pay their respects by viewing his embalmed body.

b. Old Quarter:

This is the historic center of Hanoi, known for its narrow streets, ancient temples, and traditional architecture.

c. Hoan Kiem Lake:

This lake is located in the heart of Hanoi and is home to the iconic red-painted Huc Bridge and Ngoc Son Temple.

d. Temple of Literature:

This is Vietnam’s first national university, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors can explore the temple’s five courtyards and admire the traditional architecture.

3. What are the best places to eat in Hanoi?

Hanoi is known for its delicious street food, so you won’t have a hard time finding tasty options. Some of the best places to eat in Hanoi include:

a. Bun Cha Huong Lien:

This restaurant was made famous when former US President Barack Obama visited and enjoyed a bowl of bun cha, a traditional Vietnamese dish of grilled pork served with rice noodles and herbs.

b. Pho Thin:

This restaurant is known for its pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth and rice noodles.

c. Cha Ca La Vong:

This restaurant is famous for its cha ca, a Vietnamese dish of grilled fish served with noodles, herbs, and peanuts.

4. Is it safe to travel to Hanoi?

Hanoi is generally a safe city for travelers. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take common sense precautions to avoid theft or scams. For example, be wary of motorbike taxi drivers who may try to overcharge you or take you to the wrong destination.

5. What should I wear in Hanoi?

Hanoi is a conservative city, so it’s best to dress modestly while exploring. It’s also important to keep in mind that Hanoi can be quite hot and humid in the summer, so opt for breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.

6. What is the currency used in Hanoi?

The currency used in Hanoi is the Vietnamese dong (VND). US dollars are also widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. You can exchange currency at banks or exchange offices located throughout the city, and ATMs are widely available as well.

7. How do I get around in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a variety of transportation options, including buses, taxis, and motorbike taxis (known as xe om). However, the most popular way of getting around is by renting a motorbike. This is a convenient and affordable option, and it allows you to explore the city at your own pace. Just be sure to wear a helmet and exercise caution on the busy streets.

8. What souvenirs can I buy in Hanoi?

Hanoi is known for its unique and traditional souvenirs, including:

a. Vietnamese silk:

This high-quality silk is available in a variety of designs and colors, and makes for a beautiful and useful souvenir.

b. Water puppets:

Water puppets are a traditional Vietnamese art form that originated in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta. They make for a unique and cultural souvenir.

c. Dong Ho folk paintings:

These vividly colored woodblock prints depict traditional Vietnamese scenes such as farming and fishing, and make for a colorful and traditional souvenir. In conclusion, Hanoi is a vibrant and exciting city full of history, culture, and delicious food. It’s no wonder why so many travelers flock to this charming destination year after year. We hope this FAQ has helped answer your questions about Hanoi and inspired you to plan your next trip.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and the country’s second most populous city. It’s a vibrant city with a rich culture, delicious food, and plenty of things to see and do. If you’re planning a visit to Hanoi, you may be wondering how to make the most of your time in the city. Here’s a guide to help you plan your itinerary and make the most of your trip.

1. Explore the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic heart of Hanoi, comprised of 36 streets, each named after the product sold there. It’s an area of narrow streets and old buildings, and it’s a fascinating place to explore. You can spend hours wandering the streets, admiring the architecture, and browsing the shops. You’ll find a fascinating mix of old and new, with traditional shops selling silk and spices rubbing shoulders with modern cafes and boutiques.

2. Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh is one of Vietnam’s most famous historical figures, and his mausoleum is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi. The building is an imposing structure, and you can enter to see the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh. It’s a sobering experience, but one that’s well worth the visit.

3. Try the Street Food

Vietnamese cuisine is known for being fresh, healthy, and delicious. And Hanoi is the perfect place to sample it. The city is famous for its street food, which is available everywhere. Try some of the local specialties, such as pho (a noodle soup), banh mi (a baguette sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles). And don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of bia hoi, which is a light, refreshing beer brewed in Hanoi.

4. Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a stunning complex of buildings and courtyards that was founded in the 11th century. It’s Vietnam’s first university, and it’s a peaceful oasis in the bustling city. You can wander around the four courtyards, each with its own unique features, and learn about the history of education in Vietnam.

5. See a Water Puppet Show

Water puppetry is a traditional form of entertainment in Vietnam, and it’s a unique experience that you won’t want to miss. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is a great place to see a performance. The puppets are operated by skilled puppeteers who stand waist-deep in water, and the shows are accompanied by traditional music.

6. Visit the Hoan Kiem Lake

The Hoan Kiem Lake is a beautiful, serene lake located in the center of Hanoi. It’s a popular spot for locals to relax and exercise, and it’s also a great place for tourists to take a stroll. You can visit the Ngoc Son Temple, located on an island in the middle of the lake, and see the famous red bridge that leads to the temple.

7. Take a Day Trip to Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s most famous attractions, and it’s located just a few hours away from Hanoi. You can take a day trip from the city to see the stunning bay, which is filled with thousands of limestone islands and islets. You can take a boat tour, explore some of the islands, and swim in the sparkling waters.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a fascinating city with plenty to see and do. Whether you want to explore the historic Old Quarter, sample some delicious street food, or take a day trip to Halong Bay, there’s something for everyone in Hanoi. By following this guide, you can make the most of your time in the city and have an unforgettable experience.