How to Plan Your Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show

If you’re planning a visit to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, you’re in for an exciting adventure. This vibrant city is full of history, culture, and delicious cuisine. One of the best ways to see everything Hanoi has to offer is by taking a guided tour. In this article, we’ll give you the details on one particular tour that has gained a lot of popularity due to the vast array of attractions it covers: The Top Thing to Do in Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show.

Overview

This small-group guided tour takes you to the top attractions in Hanoi including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison, and the popular Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to bike around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The tour is designed to cater to first-time visitors to Hanoi.

Tour Details

The tour starts with pickups from hotels located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The tour is conducted with a local English-speaking guide driver. The itinerary includes stops at the following attractions:

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

This mausoleum is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of Vietnam. The building is located in the center of Ba Dinh Square, which is a large expanse of greenery in downtown Hanoi.

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

This museum provides visitors with insights into the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. The exhibitions include artifacts and traditional clothing, along with information on the history and customs of each group.

Hoa Lo Prison

The Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a major attraction for history buffs. This place was used during the Vietnam War to hold American prisoners of war. It is a reminder of the struggles that Vietnam went through during the war.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a must-visit for anyone exploring Hanoi. The show is a unique Vietnamese art form that has been around for over 1,000 years. The show features puppetry performances that take place in a pool of water, telling folk tales and stories of Vietnam’s history. The tour includes admission to the show, which lasts approximately one hour.

Biking around Hanoi’s Old Quarter

The tour also includes a bike ride around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This part of the city is famous for its narrow streets, tall buildings, and bustling markets. Biking around the area is the perfect way to experience the energy and atmosphere of the area.

Important Information

Here are some important things to consider when planning your tour: – Wear appropriate attire when visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and temple. No shorts, tank tops or revealing clothing is allowed. – A Vietnamese style lunch is included in the tour price, so bring your appetite. – Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for hotels located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. – Drinks, tips for the guide and driver and any items not mentioned above are not included in the tour price.

Meeting and Pickup

There are two ways to start the tour: You can meet directly at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, which is located at 57B P. Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam. Alternatively, you can request pickup from your hotel located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Booking Information

You can book the tour through Viator, with the following link: book the tour here. Viator is a well-known third-party travel booking website that provides reliable and secure booking services. Make sure to book the tour in advance, as this tour is quite popular, and availability may be limited.

Book Your Tour Now

The Top Thing to Do in Hanoi City Tour with Water Puppet Show is a fantastic way to experience the best that Hanoi has to offer. With your guide, you’ll see the city’s top attractions, learn about its history, and immerse yourself in its culture. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors to Hanoi who want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi

Have you been to Hanoi or planning to visit soon? Hanoi is a favorite destination among travelers from different parts of the world. As the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi is rich in culture, history, and offers unique experiences. Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you plan your trip to Hanoi:

1. What is the best time to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is from September to November and from March to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there is little rainfall. The weather in Hanoi is often hot and humid, but these months offer a more bearable climate.

2. How do I get to Hanoi?

Hanoi can be easily reached by air, train, or bus. The Noi Bai International Airport is the main airport in Hanoi, serving both local and international flights. Several airlines fly to Hanoi, including Vietnam Airlines, Air Asia, and Jetstar Pacific. Alternatively, you can take a train from Ho Chi Minh City or a bus from other cities in Vietnam.

3. Is Hanoi safe for tourists?

Hanoi is a relatively safe city for tourists. Violent crimes are rare, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft may occur. It is best to be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying valuables in crowded areas. Moreover, watch out for traffic as Hanoi is known for its chaotic and congested streets.

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

Hanoi has many attractions that cater to different interests. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Old Quarter
• Hoan Kiem Lake
• The Temple of Literature
• The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
• The Hanoi Opera House
• The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

5. What is the local currency in Hanoi?

The local currency in Hanoi is the Vietnamese dong (VND). You can easily exchange your currency for VND at the airport or banks. ATMs are also widely available in Hanoi.

6. What is the local cuisine in Hanoi?

Hanoi is renowned for its cuisine and street food. Some of the popular local dishes include:

• Pho (a noodle soup with beef or chicken)
• Bun Cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles)
• Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich with meat, vegetables, and herbs)
• Cha Ca (grilled fish with turmeric and dill)
• Xoi (sticky rice with meat or egg)

7. Is bargaining accepted in Hanoi?

Bargaining is a common practice in Hanoi’s markets and shops. However, it is best to do it politely and with respect. It is also important to note that bargaining may not be accepted in larger stores or restaurants.

8. What is the dress code in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a conservative and traditional culture; thus, it is advisable to dress modestly. Revealing clothing may be considered offensive or disrespectful, especially when visiting religious sites. Wearing comfortable shoes is also recommended when exploring the city’s streets.

9. What are the transportation options in Hanoi?

Hanoi has various modes of transportation, including buses, taxis, motorcycles, and cyclos. The most popular transportation in Hanoi is the motorcycle taxi, also known as ‘xe om.’ For longer distances, taxis are a better option. When using taxis, it is best to use reputable companies or grabbing a taxi through ride-hailing apps.

10. What are the customs and traditions in Hanoi?

Hanoi has a rich culture and tradition. Some customs and practices that you might encounter include:

• Bowing as a sign of respect
• Removing your shoes when entering a home or temple
• Using two hands to receive or offer something
• Not touching someone’s head or pointing your feet at them

In conclusion, Hanoi is a fascinating city with so much to offer. With these frequently asked questions, you now have a better idea of what to expect and how to make the most of your visit to Hanoi.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam with a rich history and culture that has been preserved for centuries. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists to explore. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Hanoi.

1. Visit the Old Quarter

One of the most famous areas in Hanoi is the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is home to some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in the city. A walking tour of the Old Quarter will take you through narrow alleys with traditional architecture, street markets, and old temples. You can also take a cyclo (bicycle taxi) ride to explore the area at a more leisurely pace.

2. Explore Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the center of Hanoi and it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The lake is a picturesque spot with a beautiful red bridge that crosses the lake to the Ngoc Son Temple. You can take a walk around the lake, rent a pedal boat or sit by the side of the lake to enjoy the scenery and watch the locals practice tai chi in the morning.

3. Visit the Museum of Ethnology

The Museum of Ethnology is an impressive museum that showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. The museum is divided into indoor and outdoor sections, and it features exhibitions on traditional customs, clothing, and handicrafts. The outdoor section is particularly interesting with full-sized replicas of the houses of different minority groups.

4. Watch Water Puppet Show

Water Puppetry is a unique art form that originated in the Red River Delta region of northern Vietnam. You can watch an authentic Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi. The show takes place on a stage that is set up behind a water curtain. The puppeteers manipulate the puppets with long bamboo rods and the puppets appear to be dancing on the water’s surface.

5. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex

The Ho Chi Minh Complex is a large area that is dedicated to Vietnam’s former leader, Ho Chi Minh. The complex includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his former residence, a museum, and several other buildings. The mausoleum contains the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh and it is a popular spot for locals and tourists to pay their respects.

6. Eat Street Food

Hanoi is known for its vibrant street food scene. There are several food markets and street vendors throughout the city where you can try a variety of local dishes. Some popular street foods in Hanoi include phở (Vietnamese noodle soup), bún chả (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), and bánh mì (a Vietnamese-style sandwich).

7. Take a Day Trip to Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located about 170 kilometers east of Hanoi. The bay features thousands of limestone cliffs and islands that rise up from the emerald waters. There are several tour companies that offer day trips to Halong Bay from Hanoi. A typical tour includes a boat ride around the bay, a visit to a floating village, and a seafood lunch on board.

8. Visit the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a Confucian temple that was built in 1070. The temple is dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s finest scholars. The temple’s gardens and courtyards are peaceful and relaxing, and the buildings are a great example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. You can also visit the turtle steles that feature the names and accomplishments of the scholars who passed the royal exams.

Book Your Tour Now

Hanoi is a charming city that offers visitors an authentic Vietnamese experience. From the vibrant street food scene to the historical landmarks and natural wonders, there is something for everyone in Hanoi. Use this guide to plan your trip to Hanoi and make the most of your time in this wonderful city.