Hanoi City Tour

Enjoy an orientation of the tree-lined streets of Hanoi, resplendent with French colonial architecture.

First, pass by Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Lake of the Restored Sword. Along the way, the legend that surrounds it is shared en-route to one of the city’s fascinating museums, either Army, History, or Fine Arts, depending on your preference. From here, continue to the Temple of Literature, built in 1070 and later dedicated to Confucius. Today, it is a serene retreat from the busy streets outside.

Next, take to the streets on foot for a walking tour of the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District. Historically, this densely populated corner of the city was once a centre of commerce. At that time, goods were sold under the street name of a particular guild. Even now, it remains a thriving community of sellers. As you explore, you will see street names such as Sugar Street, Tin Street, and Paper Street. Throughout the area, ancient homes and temples are interspersed with stores in this souvenir hunter’s paradise.

(4 hours)

Hanoi’s Tribute to Uncle Ho

Afterwards, visit Ba Dinh Square, where silent sentries guard the marble and granite mausoleum. This is where Ho Chi Minh lies in state. Subject to opening times, you can also visit the interior of the mausoleum . Then, see the simple cottage where Uncle Ho lived and worked. Nearby, continue to the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Here, it stands as an extraordinary tribute in abstract form to the life of the ‘father of the country’ and the evolution of Vietnamese independence.

More broadly, French architecture is a defining feature of Hanoi. In particular, the nearby former Governor’s Residence is a fine example. Finally, see the One Pillar Pagoda and hear the legend of its construction. This story was born from the love of an emperor in the 11th century.

(3.5 hours)

Water Puppetry (Dinner tour)

Later, your cyclo, or pedicab, awaits you for transfer to the theatre. Here, the ancient and unique art form of water puppetry is enacted. In this setting, the stage is a pool of water. Throughout the performance, the hidden puppeteer must stand waist deep to skillfully manoeuvre dancing puppets attached to bamboo poles on its surface.

During the show, each short skit relates to the daily life of the people. Notably, featured scenes include Returning from School after Graduation and Rearing Ducks and Chasing Foxes. Afterwards, following the performance, transfer by private vehicle to dinner. It will be at one of Hanoi’s many superb Vietnamese restaurants.

(3 hours)

What you’ll do

Enjoy a guided orientation of Hanoi, taking in French colonial architecture, Hoan Kiem Lake, a chosen city museum, and the Temple of Literature.
Walk through the Ancient Quarter, also known as the 36 Streets District, discovering historic guild streets, temples, and traditional shop houses.
Visit Ba Dinh Square and key Ho Chi Minh landmarks, including the Mausoleum, his former residence, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the One Pillar Pagoda.
Travel by cyclo to a water puppetry performance, followed by dinner at a well-regarded Vietnamese restaurant.