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1. Thang Long Water Puppet Show
Step into the world of traditional Vietnamese puppetry at the Thang Long Water Puppet Show. Originating from the Red River Delta, this performance uses water as a stage to bring folk tales and local stories to life, accompanied by zither music, sound effects, and live singing. It's a cultural experience that combines artistry and storytelling in a way that's captivating and immersive.
Book now: Traveloka
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2. Old Quarter Food Tour
Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter through its vibrant street food scene on this walking tour. Sample a range of local delicacies, from the famous bánh mì to the unique and iconic egg coffee, all while your guide explains about the dishes and tells the story behind them.
The tour can start at any time of the day, allowing you to enjoy the aromas and flavours of Hanoi's streets at your own pace. You can go for an additional visit to Train Street, where a huge train might just zoom past right in front of you!
Book now: Klook
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3. Hanoi Sky Lotte Observation Deck
Take in sweeping views of Hanoi from the Lotte Observation Deck, located on the 65th floor of Lotte Center. The high-speed elevator gets you to the top within a minute, where you'll find plenty of stunning photo spots and even glass-floor sections.
Time your visit around late afternoon to catch the city in daylight, twilight, and glittering at night. There's also a VR game area for some entertainment, plus a bar and lounge where you can unwind with a drink while enjoying the million dollar view.
Book now: Trip.com
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4. Incense Quang Phu Cau Village & Handicraft Village Tour
Head outside Hanoi's city centre and explore traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with a passionate and knowledgeable guide. You'll first visit Chuong Village, known for over 300 years of conical hat-making, and observe artisans weaving bamboo and palm leaves using time-honoured techniques. Next stop is Quang Phu Cau Village, where vibrant bundles of incense are hand-dyed and dried to create one of the most photogenic cultural sights in the region.
The experience goes beyond sightseeing, offering a closer look at lacquer artistry and the intricate process behind handmade goods. With opportunities to interact with local artisans and learn about their daily lives, the tour gives a deeper appreciation of Vietnam's cultural heritage while still being Insta-worthy and engaging.
Book now: Klook
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5. Blue Butterfly Cooking Class and Local Market Tour
Learn to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes from scratch at Blue Butterfly Restaurant & Cooking Class, located in a French house aged over 100. At the local market, you'll first pick out fresh ingredients, learning about herbs and spices from the chief alongside. Back in the restaurant, he will walk you through each step, from knife skills to balancing flavours in dishes like pho, spring rolls, and Bun Cha.
The class is fully hands-on, making it easy to recreate the recipes at home after your trip. Once you're done cooking, sit down and enjoy the fruit of your labor amid the restaurant's cosy, traditional ambience, an eye-opening cooking lesson wrapping up in a satisfying feast.
Book now: Klook
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6. Hanoi Full-Day Historical City Tour
Dive into Hanoi's history and culture in a single day with this guided city tour. Key landmarks covered include the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the iconic lotus-shaped One Pillar Pagoda, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, and Hoa Lo Prison, which now houses artefacts from French colonial and wartime periods.
Plus, you get to savour authentic Vietnamese flavours for lunch to recharge before continuing your journey exploring and learning about the country's rich heritage.
Book now: Klook
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7. Temple of Literature by Night
If you're travelling with the kids, this night tour offers engaging shows and activities that will keep them entertained while still being educational. Through traditional musical performances, interactive media, light installations, and a 3D mapping show, Vietnam's Confucian roots and educational legacy are brought to life in a way that's magical, impressive and immersive.
There are also hands-on activities like folk games and calligraphy, and you can even talk to the AI-powered "wisdom turtle" to gain some philosophical insight. It's a thoughtful blend of heritage and modern technology, making it easy for all ages to appreciate Vietnam's cultural values.
Book now: Traveloka
