Private Tour: Hanoi City Tour Including Water Puppet Show and Cyclo Ride

Hanoi , Vietnam

Private Tour: Hanoi City Tour Including Water Puppet Show and Cyclo Ride

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(57 reviews)

8h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take in Hanoi's notable landmarks during a full day of private sightseeing that includes a cyclo tour to the Old Quarter and a water puppet show. Vietnam’s capital maintains 2,000 well-preserved cultural, architectural and historical sites. Your tour includes visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, plus structures like One Pillar Pagoda and Ngoc Son Temple. Starting your day with Egg coffee and Enjoy Vietnamese Cuisine Lunch at local restaurant. Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle are included.

Available options

Option 1

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Lunch

Sightseeing Fees, Cyclo Ride and Puppet Show

Professional English guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Afterward, continue sightseeing in the comfort of an air-conditioned, private vehicle with a visit to Ba Dinh Square, where your guide points out significant buildings such as the President’s Palace and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Learn about President Ho Chi Minh’s life and his career at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and discover the role of Buddhism in Hanoi at the historical One Pillar Pagoda, considered one of Vietnam's most iconic temples with its typical architecture, originally built in 1049.

Stop 2 Pass by

Before a traditional Vietnamese lunch at restaurant, you’ll gain an appreciation for Vietnamese architecture at the Temple of Literature, the first university of Vietnam, and view Long Bien Bridge, built during the French occupation.
In the afternoon, discover the many customs of more than 50 ethnic minorities in Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Then enjoy the beautiful environs of Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake), stopping by Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain), situated on a small islet in the lake.

Stop 3 Pass by

Discover the many customs of more than 50 ethnic minorities in Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Then enjoy the beautiful environs of Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake), stopping by Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of the Jade Mountain), situated on a small islet in the lake.

Stop 4 Pass by

Learn about President Ho Chi Minh’s life and his career at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and discover the role of Buddhism in Hanoi at the historical One Pillar Pagoda, considered one of Vietnam's most iconic temples with its typical architecture, originally built in 1049.

Stop 5

Finally, your guide accompanies you to see a water puppet show. This delightful stage performance delves into Vietnam’s mythology and traditions for a little over an hour.

Stop 6 Pass by

Stop 7 Pass by

Weave through Hanoi’s Old Quarter in the historical center of the capital, known for its 36 old streets and artisan guilds that date back to the 13th century. You’ll end up at St Joseph’s Cathedral (Nha Tho Lon), whose structure has changed little since it was built in 1886.
Enjoy a relaxing conversation with the locals over a cup of delicious coffee — a great way to immerse in the culture of Hanoi. Test your language skills as your guide teaches you to order ca phe nong (hot black coffee, usually with sugar) or ca phe sua nong (hot coffee with sweetened condensed milk).

Start your full-day private tour of Hanoi with early pickup from your hotel. Then hop in a cyclo to the undisputed heart of the city with your friendly and informative guide. Observe people practicing tai chi, playing badminton and doing other popular activities as you receive an overview of daily life and witness how locals occupy their mornings.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Surcharge for German, Spainish Guide 40USD/Day

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

38 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.1

19 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

About Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. Known for its French colonial architecture, bustling Old Quarter, and rich culinary scene, Hanoi offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Top Attractions

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a serene oasis in the heart of Hanoi, surrounded by lush greenery and historical landmarks. The lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Old Quarter is the historic and cultural heart of Hanoi, featuring narrow streets lined with traditional shops, temples, and colonial-era architecture. It's a vibrant area with a rich history and bustling atmosphere.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature is a historic Confucian temple dedicated to education and literature. It's a serene and culturally significant site, featuring beautiful architecture and a peaceful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours 30,000 VND

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a significant historical site where the embalmed body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh, is displayed. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage and a symbol of Vietnam's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Hanoi Opera House

The Hanoi Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture, featuring elegant design and a rich history. It's a popular venue for cultural performances and events.

Architecture 1-2 hours for a performance Varies by event

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and thinly sliced meat, typically beef or chicken.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Bun Cha

Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich with a crispy baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Snack/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Egg Coffee

A unique Vietnamese coffee made with strong drip coffee, condensed milk, and a frothy egg yolk mixture.

Drink Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Kayaking in Ha Long Bay Trekking in Sapa Boat ride in Hoan Kiem Lake Coffee at a local café Exploring the Temple of Literature Visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Swimming and snorkeling in Ha Long Bay Egg coffee tasting

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded compared to the peak tourist season.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hanoi is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, and travelers should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Use reputable taxi companies and insist on using the meter or agree on a price before starting your journey.
• Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Noi Bai International Airport • 28 km from city center

By train

Hanoi Railway Station

By bus

Giap Bat Bus Station, My Dinh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Hanoi is affordable and covers most of the city. However, it can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Quarter French Quarter Ba Dinh District Tay Ho District

Day trips

Ha Long Bay

165 km from Hanoi • Full day to overnight

Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts and islets, emerald waters, and scenic beauty. It's a popular destination for cruises, kayaking, and exploring caves.

Ninh Binh

90 km from Hanoi • Full day

Ninh Binh is known as 'Halong Bay on land' due to its stunning limestone karsts, rice paddies, and historic sites. It's a popular destination for cycling, boat rides, and exploring ancient temples.

Sapa

320 km from Hanoi • Overnight to multi-day

Sapa is a mountainous region known for its stunning rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and trekking opportunities. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural experiences.

Festivals

Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) • January or February (based on the lunar calendar) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (based on the lunar calendar) Hanoi International Film Festival • October or November (annual)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Explore the city's hidden gems and lesser-known attractions, such as the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural and the Temple of Literature.
Try local street food and visit markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Use a navigation app, such as Google Maps or GrabMaps, to help you get around the city and avoid getting lost.
Be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transportation, to avoid petty crime and scams.