Hanoi Evening Cyclo Tour & Water Puppet Show in Old Quarter

Summary

Private Night Walk & Cyclo Ride: Hanoi Old Quarter Experience

If you want to see Hanoi after dark like a local—slow-paced cyclo ride, legendary lake stories, buzzing Old Quarter streets, and traditional water puppets—this tour covers it all without feeling rushed or touristy.

What’s the experience like?

The air in Hanoi cools off just after sunset. That’s when our guide met us outside the hotel, right as the city’s neon signs flickered on. We hopped onto a cyclo—those three-wheeled bicycle taxis you’ll spot weaving through traffic—and drifted slowly past the grand Sofitel Metropole and the glowing Opera House. The driver pointed out a tiny café tucked behind a row of flower stalls; you could smell fresh jasmine and grilled pork drifting from nearby street carts. It’s easy to miss these details if you’re not moving at cyclo speed.

We wound our way into the Old Quarter, where every street seems to have its own story. Hang Bac buzzed with silver shops, while Hang Ma was all paper lanterns and red envelopes. The sidewalks were crowded but friendly—locals chatting over iced tea, scooters zipping by with impossible stacks of boxes. Our guide shared how each street got its name from what was once sold there, and I caught myself peeking into narrow alleys just to see what surprises they held. It felt like stepping back in time, even though you could still hear the distant hum of modern Hanoi.

After a quick bowl of beef noodles (the broth had that deep, peppery aroma), we made our way to Hoan Kiem Lake. The legend goes that King Le Loi returned his magic sword to a golden turtle here—our guide told it with such detail I almost expected to see ripples on the water. The lake glowed under string lights, couples strolled hand-in-hand, and someone played guitar near the red bridge. We finished up at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, where wooden puppets danced across water to live music—a tradition that’s been around for centuries but still draws a full house every night. Even if you don’t understand Vietnamese, you’ll get swept up in the rhythm and laughter.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening Tour of Hanoi Highlights

• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake
• Explore Hanoi Old Quarter
• Watch Thang Long Water Puppet Show

Top questions

Is this evening tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! Kids under 2 go free and specialized infant seats are available. Just let us know your needs when booking.

How long does the water puppet show last?

The show usually runs about 50 minutes. It’s lively and keeps both adults and kids entertained throughout.

What should I wear for this evening walking tour?

Comfortable shoes are best since there’s some walking involved. Bring a light jacket if you're visiting during cooler months.

Will someone pick me up at my hotel?

Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for your convenience. We'll confirm your exact pick-up time after booking.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided cyclo ride through Hanoi’s French Quarter and Old Quarter, entry to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (with reserved seats), a tasty bowl of beef noodles at a local spot, plus hotel pick-up and drop-off with an English-speaking guide who knows all the shortcuts and stories.