hanoi rickshaw tour

Hanoi by cyclo – Price, experience & recommended tours

Exploring Hanoi by cyclo is a fun and unique way to experience the city. A cyclo is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi that takes passengers on a leisurely ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi. With a cyclo driver on the back and a passenger seat in the front, you can relax and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. It’s a great way to see Hanoi’s landmarks, temples, and street life up close, while also experiencing the local culture and customs.

• History and facts

What to expect

• Arranging a cyclo

Hanoi cyclo tour

History and facts about cyclos in hanoi.

Cyclos, also known as cycle rickshaws or pedicabs, have been a popular mode of transportation in Hanoi for over a century. They were first introduced to Vietnam during French colonial times in the early 1900s. The cyclo consists of a bicycle with a passenger seat attached to the front, and is powered by a human driver.

While cyclos were once a common sight on Hanoi’s streets, they have become less prevalent in recent years due to concerns about traffic congestion. However, they remain a popular option for tourists who want to experience the city at a leisurely pace and take in the sights and sounds of Hanoi’s vibrant streets.

Cyclo drivers are often knowledgeable about the city’s history and can provide tourists with a unique perspective on the city’s landmarks and attractions. It’s important to negotiate the fare in advance and agree on the route with the driver before setting off.

Exploring Hanoi by cyclo can be a unique and immersive experience. Cyclo drivers are often knowledgeable about the city and can take you to some of the most popular tourist destinations, such as the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature. You can also visit some of the city’s lesser-known gems, such as the Long Bien Bridge or the Hanoi Opera House.

During the cyclo ride, you will get to experience the bustling streets of Hanoi up close and personal. You can witness the daily life of the locals, as well as the architecture and urban landscape of the city. You can also stop for a quick snack or drink at one of the many street vendors or cafes.

One of the highlights of the cyclo tour is the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective, as you ride at a slower pace than other modes of transportation. It can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to explore the city while learning about its culture and history from a local perspective.

Arranging a cyclo in Hanoi yourself

It is possible to arrange a cyclo ride in Hanoi yourself. You can find cyclo drivers in popular tourist areas.

The cost of a cyclo ride can vary depending on the length of the ride and your negotiation skills, but it is typically around 100,000-200,000 VND (approximately $4-9 USD) per hour. It is always best to agree on the price beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.

While many cyclo drivers in Hanoi may not speak fluent English, they are usually able to communicate effectively with tourists. However, it is always a good idea to bring a map or have a general idea of where you want to go to avoid any confusion.

As with any tourist activity, there is always a risk of overcharging. To avoid this, it is recommended to negotiate the price upfront and agree on a specific route and duration for the ride. It is also important to be aware of any additional fees that may be added, such as entrance fees to attractions.

Going on a cyclo tour in Hanoi is often recommended over arranging a cyclo yourself for several reasons. First, a tour ensures that you have a knowledgeable and experienced driver who knows the best routes and sights to see. This can save you time and hassle compared to trying to navigate the city on your own.

Second, a tour often includes stops at popular attractions, such as temples and markets, which may not be as easy to find on your own.

Third, a tour often includes a guide who can provide information and insights about the city and its culture.

Finally, tours can provide a safer and more reliable experience, as reputable tour companies often have established relationships with drivers and can ensure that you are not overcharged.

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Hanoi city tour – Historical sights & Cyclo ride

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• June 6, 2023

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Private Tour: Hanoi Highlights full day trip Rickshaw included

• English speaking guide on tour
• Lunch at local Vietnamese restaurant
• 1 bottle of drinking water per person
• Rickshaw ride
• Travel insurance
• Optional tipping
• Meals/beverages not stated in the itinerary
• Other optional activities or tours (outside of itinerary)
• Personal expenses
• Departure Point: Hotel in Hanoi Dates: See Availability Return point: Hotel in Hanoi
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children aged 12 years old or more will be charged as adult rate.
• Children aged 5 years and less than 11 years old will be charged 75% of adult rate
• Children aged less than 4 years will be free of charge
• Please note:Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors allowed.
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
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• W6117YGalexb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Vietnam and Cambodia tour My wife and I just finished an amazing 12 day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia, organized by Legend Travel. The tour was first rate, hitting all the highlights in both countries. Each city had a guide specializing in that city and often UNESCO heritage site so very helpful. The tour exceeded our expectations. The hotels were all first rate as were the recommended restaurants. Everything went like clock work and as advertised. Special note of thanks to the "quarterback" Danny Nguyen, who coordinated all travel and tour arrangements. He was always online, always responsive. A true rock star. Read more Written April 4, 2024
• zouklas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles MR DANNY THANK YOU / 10 day South to North of Vietnam 10 Days in Vietnam: A Journey Through History and Culture. As I was a Solo traveller Mr Danny organised a 10 day tour of Vietnam which I loved From start to finish. Communication was excellent, and reassuring if there was any issues Mr Danny was easy to contact. I was met at every destination I visited with different drivers and Tour Guides and every one of them was professional friendly. I really enjoyed every moment of my 10 days in Vietnam learning the culture and the History, especially the food and the mini cruise wow, a beautiful place Vietnam. Towards the end of the 10 day tour I stayed on Vietnam to explore more, then 2 days Later Mr Danny contacted me to find out when I’m leaving Vietnam so he could arrange airport pick for me, which I was not expecting. A true gentleman, everything went smoothly my airport pick up arrived on time and I spoke to Mr Danny and he thanked me for visiting Vietnam and I also thanked him. I will definitely use Legend Tours again in the future. Thank you Shirley Read more Written April 2, 2024
• GordonR46 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Legend Travel Group superbly organized our Trip to Cambodia & Vietnam This 14 day trip through Cambodia and Vietnam was superbly organized by Legend Travel Group . The trip took us through Cambodia with stops in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh , and then through the Mekong Delta to Saigon , Hoi An , Hanoi , Halong Bay in Vietnam. The organization of the tour was superb and there were no problems as we moved along the route , meeting up with different tour guides at the various destinations . All the taxi and shuttle bus arrangements were on time which was a big plus . The standard hotel for this tour is a 3 star , but we upgraded to 4 star hotels , and we were not disappointed . The hotel in Phnom Penh had the most fantastic top floor deck with a bar , wine bar , swimming pool , and a really nice dinner menu . We ate there both nights , and there was a Happy Hour for drinks. Mr Danny who organizes all the Legends tours was very helpful throughout , and was quick to respond to WhatsApp queries . He also went out of his way to personally retrieve my camera bag that I had mistakenly left on a shuttle bus for which I will be eternally grateful. Read more Written March 4, 2024
• catherinemP3060OY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Review of 10 Day Trip - Saigon to Hanoi I booked a 10 day trip from Saigon to Hanoi with Legend Travel Group through TourRadar. The tour organiser Danny was very thorough and always available for any question we had - it really took all the stress out of travelling so we could just enjoy our trip!! Danny was even able to help us organise a trip to Ba Na Hills which wasn’t even included in our tour. The quality of the hotels we stayed at was wonderful and all activities were amazing! In Saigon, tour guide Tin Tin was a wealth of knowledge and was easy to get along with. I highly recommend Legend Travel Group for your next adventure. Read more Written February 6, 2024
• H5245UXmonicac 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent super organized local tour company We just came back from a fabulous 21 day tour of Cambodia and Vietnam with Legend Travel. Everything was extremely well organized. We would have never explored so many places and had such a variety of different experiences if we would have done this trip our own. The guides and drivers were all always punctual, ready to greet us before we arrived. Furthermore, to our surprise, although we had booked a group tour, our tour was mostly private, with a driver and guide in a private car just for ourselves. When choosing and booking the tour, the communication via email with Tony was excellent and he was very accommodating to our requests, And in Hanoi, we met Danny, who coordinates everybody”s trip. He is an amazing, kind, extremely hard working person that truly cares about your trip being enjoyable and running smoothly. We highly recommend Legend Travel. Read more Written February 5, 2024
• D9108USjohnr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Just do it. I have just finished the 12-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi and the whole experience has been fantastic, I cannot praise the whole process and people involved enough. It was my first guided tour and I am so glad I chose this company, there is no way I could have had anywhere near this experience of the beautiful country and people of Vietnam if I had have stepped out on my own to do it. A big thanks to all the guides for such a memorable time. John Read more Written January 23, 2024
• richardlK5369FV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well-organised Tour of fantastic Vietnam with personal touch Fantastic experience for my first 10-day Tour in Vietnam from beginning to end Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi! The country and it's people are amazing. Beautiful scenery and bustling cities alike. Very highly recommend and I hope to return again soon. Tony, Danny and the team at Legend Travel are incredibly kind and helpful, and likewise all of the guides, drivers and various staff at the hotels I stayed. Ha Long Bay was one highlight amongst many others 5* Read more Written January 21, 2024
• delawarealan 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Incredible Vietnam/Cambodia was Incredible! I just came back from the 15-day Incredible Vietnam/Cambodia tour. Wonderful experience. Just enough activities without being too rushed. Many of the days included a lunch which was usually so good that we didn't need much of a dinner in the evening. We had tour guides for each of the regions in Vietnam and then Cambodia, and they all provided excellent services. I highly recommend Legend Travel Group. Read more Written January 17, 2024
• Connector56064566922 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptionally satisfied - thank you! We could not be more satisfied with our two-week trip through Vietnam! Excellent locations, well-chosen hotels, great excursions, knowledgeable guides, and super service throughout. Special thanks to operations manager Danny, who went far beyond expectations to help us resolve an urgent complication. We can only recommend Legend Travel very warmly! Read more Written January 15, 2024
• eimearo334 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 6 Day Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay tour I had a great time on my tour arranged by Legend Travel. Activities included a tour of the main sights of Hanoi city, a day trip to Ninh Binh and an overnight stay on a cruise of Halong Bay. The itinerary is an ideal mix between tour time and time to yourself. I really enjoyed all of the places I visited and learned a lot. The tour guides each day were great. The highlight for me was Halong Bay. The accommodation on the cruise exceeded my expectation and I wish I could have stayed longer! :) Special mention has to go to Danny who helped oversee the entire trip and was always available to support on anything I needed which made my trip run smoothly from start to finish :) Just to be aware if you are a solo traveller like me, this tour seems to be more popular among couples and groups/families so there may not be other solo travellers but that didn't bother me too much as I talk to anyone anyway :) Read more Written December 13, 2023
• bonjoyhal 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tremendous value for the money! The Best of Vietnam from Saigon to Hanoi 7 days Super Save was an incredible value for the money. Mr. Danny is a maestro, co-ordinating many different sections into a well-organized, timely performance. The Orchid Trendy Cruise in Halong Bay was the highlight of the trip with superb food, excellent service and interesting activities. We particularly appreciated the guide on shuttle bus from Hanoi along the Red River Delta because he shared history in a personal manner, informed by his own experience, which we greatly appreciated. Read more Written December 11, 2023
• Z3915TWfionah 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent and reliable We had a great trip to Thailand on the Mountains to the Sea tour with Legend, which we did as a private tour. The organisation was superb, everything worked very smoothly and Mr Danny / Mr Tony were always very prompt to reply clearly to queries. We felt that they were very reliable. All the hotels were very good, very clean and very comfortable. The places visited were very interesting and we enjoyed all the activities, which were well diversified throughout the trip. Our tour guide in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, Omi, was superb, a delightful lady who explained to us not only the places but much background about life in Thailand. She was very clear and very helpful.Also the cooking school was very good. Kiki, our guide for the day in Bangkok was also very good and she explained a lot to us. The driver, Mr Sam, was really good and we were pleased that he also did the airport transfers in Bangkok. We would certainly be happy to recommend Legend to others. Read more Written December 9, 2023
• 507lyes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memorable😄 First of, I want to thank Mr Danny for upgrading my 3 star cruise to a 5 star cruise in HaLong Bay and making our travels smooth and enjoyable. It would not have been possible without Mr Danny, sincerely from my heart, thank you😊 Legend travels has made my first time in Vietnam memorable and I would definately entrust my next times in Vietnam with them. Read more Written December 3, 2023
• 461lyek 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles beautiful hanoi:D I am very pleased with my overall travel experience, thanks to legend travels that planned out the eventful iternary allowing me and my family to experience the different wonders and beauty of Hanoi ,Vietnam. Thank you ,legend travels. Read more Written December 3, 2023
• 461lyek 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles GREAT EXPOSURE IN HANOI>> I have a great experience on the 7 days exposure to Hanoi , SAPA & Halong Bay from 26 Nov 2023 to 02 Dec 2023. The hotel assigned meet with my expectation and a walked to the nearby shops is convivence. i will introduce to my friends the same trips and agency . Cam On Thanks VicKH Read more Written December 3, 2023

Private Tour: Hanoi Highlights full day trip Rickshaw included provided by Legend Travel Group

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• Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours

Hanoi Rickshaw, Cycle Or Local Transport Tours 2024/2025

Rickshaw, cycle or local transport trips in Hanoi. Looking to explore Hanoi on a rickshaw, cycle or local transport tour? We offer 6 rickshaw, cycle or local transport trips through-out Hanoi having in total 4 reviews. All the tours are offered by 5 curated travel operators in Hanoi. Durations range from 1 day to 50 days.

• Vietnam Travel Guide

6 Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours with 4 Reviews

• Starts Hanoi, Vietnam
• Ends Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

A Scenic Odyssey in Vietnam In 15 Days

• Trip customizable
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Adventure & Countryside and village visits Adventure , Countryside and village visits , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours , Fishing & Cooking classes 'data-more-tripid='40094'>+3 more
• Accommodation Eco Lodge, Home-stay, Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Boat, Bus, Coach, Ferry, Flight & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 1-79 yrs
• Operated in English, French, German, Spanish
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,202
• Special Deal (50%): - US$ 1,601
• Total Price from: US$ 1,601
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Vietnam Experience

• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Kayaking and canoeing Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours , Kayaking and canoeing , Bicycle tours , Sightseeing Tours , Cooking classes , Countryside and village visits , Boat tours, water sports and marine wildlife , Party and nightlife , Local culture & Local boat rides 'data-more-tripid='35480'>+8 more
• Accommodation Bungalow, Home-stay & Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight, Private Vehicle, Rickshaw & Train
• Age Range 17-55 yrs
• Operated in English
• May 04 Only 5 seats left
• May 20 10+ seats left

VIETNAM NORTH TO SOUTH

• Activities Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Cruise Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours , Cruise , Local culture , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Natural landmarks sightseeing , Sightseeing Tours & Honeymoon 'data-more-tripid='37520'>+5 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Flight, Jeep, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Train
• Age Range 1-80 yrs

• Ends Siem Reap, Cambodia

Journey to Angkor Wat - 15 days

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Cruise & Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours Cruise , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours , Local culture , Museum and gallery visits & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='15993'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Sleeper Train & Resort
• Transport Flight, Boat, Train, Private Vehicle, Bus, Sleeper Train, Taxi & Rickshaw
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,805
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 421
• Total Price from: US$ 2,384
• May 04 10+ seats left
• May 18 10+ seats left

• Ends Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi At A Glance

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='14868'>+2 more
• Accommodation No Accommodation
• Age Range 5-79 yrs

Hanoi on a Tricycle

• Activities City sightseeing & Rickshaw, cycle or local transport tours

Hanoi Tour Reviews

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Cyclo Rickshaw Tour - Discover the Heart of Hanoi

Ever fancied yourself cruising through the bustling streets of Hanoi like a local rockstar, but without the rockstar budget? Well, buckle up, because we've got the perfect ride for you – a Cyclo Rickshaw Tour in Hanoi with Phoenix Voyages!

Now, if you're scratching your head wondering what a cyclo rickshaw is, don't worry – you're not alone! Picture a comfy armchair on wheels, pedaled by a friendly local guide who knows Hanoi's Old Quarter like the back of their hand. It's basically the coolest way to explore the city's hidden gems without breaking a sweat (literally, you're not the one pedaling!).

So, here's the plan: You hop on the back of your trusty cyclo, settle into your plush seat, and let your guide do all the hard work. As you zip through narrow alleys and past vibrant markets, you'll feel like you're in a live-action movie – complete with tantalising smells, colourful sights.

But wait, there's more to the Cyclo Rickshaw Tour! This isn't just any sightseeing tour – it's like a backstage pass to Hanoi's rich history and culture. Your guide will regale you with quirky stories, fascinating facts, and maybe even a joke or two about the city's past. From ancient temples to hidden courtyards, each stop on the tour is a new chapter in Hanoi's epic story. 

Your guide will take you to the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, the architectural marvels of the French Quarter, and the vibrant scenes of local markets and temples while enjoying the leisurely pace of a cyclo ride.

And the cherry on top? Phoenix Voyages goes the extra mile to ensure that your Cyclo Rickshaw Tour is not just memorable, but also tailored to your preferences. As part of a corporate group, the rickshaw can be customised to reflect your company image or personal style upon request. It's the perfect way to add a unique touch to your Hanoi adventure and create lasting memories that you'll cherish for years to come.

Ready to hit the streets of Hanoi in style? Reach out to Phoenix Voyages today and let them help you plan the ultimate Cyclo Rickshaw Tour adventure. 

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A Glimpse of History of Rickshaw and Cyclo

Beside exploring the hidden charms of the Old Quarter on foot, our clients love to experience the hustle traffic of the city by riding on a cyclo. Since the activity is included in almost every classic tour for travelers staying in Hanoi , we would like to share a glimpse of history, and the terms, of rickshaw and cyclo in this blog entry.

It all begun with the rickshaw, which is a two-wheeled cart pulled by one person to carry one passenger. The first rickshaw was invented in France in the late 17th century, then it became popular in Japan and other Asian countries from the late 19 th  century.

After taking Hanoi in 1882, the French begun to built up the ‘ Paris of the East ’ with many  European architectures and large treelined boulevards. They also imported two rickshaws from Japan in 1884, from which they copied to 50 others to use in the city. 

Rickshaw Puller & French Family in Hanoi

Those first rickshaws surprisingly amazed the local people, who had been moving around on foot, little boats, or horses. From 1900s, many local Vietnamese became rickshaw pullers (to Westerners, coolies) to earn a living, and their customers were mostly French colonials and rich people.

The image of a skinny rickshaw coolie pulling a big European, who was sitting on the cart, became the image of human labor exploitation of the colonials. Therefore, after defeating the French, the Vietnamese government banned rickshaws in the capital city of Hanoi for a period of time.

Rickshaw Pullers & an European Rider on a Hanoi Street

In the 1920s, the cycle rickshaw, which is pedaled by one person in the front to give a passenger a ride, became popular in Singapore. Then from the late 1930s, cyclo, that pedals from behind while the passenger is sitting in the front, appeared on the streets in Jakarta, Phnom Penh, and Saigon.

A Cycle Rickshaw in Can Tho City, Southern Vietnam.

Cycle Rickshaws in Southern Vietnam

That cyclo then appeared on the streets of Hanoi, mostly in the French Quarter, from the 1940s, and it became very popular during the two Indochina Wars. After the wars, when motorized transport was not yet developed, cyclo and tram-car were two of the major means of transportation in Hanoi.

Cyclo and Rickshaw on a Street of Hanoi

Tram-car & Cyclo at Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi.

The city developed quickly from the 2000s, and then the slowly moving cyclos became one of the main traffic obstructions, so it was restricted by the city from 2009. Currently, there are less than 300 cyclos licensed to go around to serve tourism.

We’re a big fan of walking, and we believe it’s the best way to investigate the back alleys that made Hanoi. But we think it’s worth taking a cyclo for an hour or so at the beginning of your visit to the city, the ride offers a great perspective and introduction to the streets, plus it’s far easier to look around if you’re not watching where you’re walking the whole time.

Our Client on a Cyclo in front of the Metropole Hanoi Hotel in 2022

Our Client on a Cyclo in Hanoi in 2022

Well, hope this post was informative enough to help you prepare for a wonderful stay in our city. Contact us if you’re interested in a personal street food tour in Hanoi. Also, follow us on  Instagram  and  Facebook  to keep updated on what’s new and what’s interesting in Hanoi.

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10 epic things to do in hanoi with kids – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article we are going to share the best things to do in Hanoi with kids in 2024. We absolutely loved exploring Hanoi with our kids. This beautiful city has plenty of amazing street food, culture and temples.

However, we did find it more challenging to find kid friendly activities in Hanoi (compared to other cities in Southeast Asia). If you know where to go there are some amazing things to do with kids in Hanoi.

We have tried to include a wide range of activities with unique, fun and educational activities for kids of different ages. In this article we will also share full details for each thing that we recommend. Prices, locations, timings and what to expect. We will also share some of the best places to stay in Hanoi with kids. 

Looking for a great hotel for kids? Don’t miss our FULL guide to the BEST family hotels in Hanoi

Summary of the BEST things to do in Hanoi with kids

• Take a rickshaw tour of the old town
• See the water puppet show
• Visit Chewy Puff Junior
• Kidzoona – indoor play space
• Try a Vietnamese dessert
• Take a swan boat
• Visit some temples
• Explore train street 
• Watch a street performance
• Try some local art and craft

Map of the best things to do in Hanoi with kids

Top tips for traveling in Hanoi with kids

Don’t make these common mistakes in Vietnam – READ our genius Vietnam travel tips

Here are a few top tips for traveling in Hanoi with kids. Hanoi is a very fun, vibrant and bustling city. However, there are a few things that you need to know before you come to Hanoi with kids.

Use a taxi app

One of the best ways to get around Hanoi city is by taxi. The cheapest and most convenient way to arrange a taxi is to use a taxi app. In Hanoi you can use the Grab taxi app or the Gojek taxi app. Prices are similar, on average Grab can be a little bit more expensive.  To use a taxi app you will need a local SIM card with some Mobile data. Once you have your SIM card set up, download the taxi app from your app store and register for an account using your email address and local phone number. Once you have set up your account you can order taxis online and select “pay with cash”.  Your taxi should then turn up, pick you up, take you to your destination and the price is fixed by the app.

Take care on narrow streets

Hanoi is a very busy bustling city. This gives it a fun atmosphere that can make it challenging to get around safely. Furthermore, many of the streets in the old quarter are very narrow and may not have pavement or sidewalks. Therefore we recommend supervising children very carefully if you are walking around the old quarter. Watch out for motorbikes, the streets can get very crowded with bikes.

Make the most of amazing kid friendly food

On average the local food in Hanoi is a lot more kid friendly than other countries in Southeast Asia. Make the most of the amazing affordable and tasty kid friendly food in Hanoi. A very common food is Banh Mi (normally 20,000VND – 60,000VND).  This is a tasty French style baguette with a range of delicious fillings such as egg, meat and pickle vegetables. Be aware that this can sometimes also include spicy sources. If you are ordering Banh Mi for kids, make sure that you ask them not to add any chili or spice.  Another great kid friendly food in Hanoi is noodle soup called Pho (normally around 50,000VND).  This delicious soup is normally served with meat and it is not too spicy. You can add additional garnishes for flavor.

Bring an umbrella

Vietnam has a hot tropical climate. During the heat of the day the sun can be very intense. During the rainy season you can also expect dramatic downpours. Therefore, we recommend bringing an umbrella around with you. This is a great way to protect kids from the sun during the intense heat of the day and also to keep yourselves dry in a tropical downpour.

1 Take a rickshaw tour of the old town

One of the best things to do in Hanoi with kids is take a rickshaw tour of the old quarter. Rickshaws are carts pulled along by a bicycle. This is a beautiful way to taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the Hanoi old quarter. If you take a rickshaw tour of the Hanoi old quarter it should include all of the main sites of interest.  We recommend that you talk to your rickshaw guide about the length of the tour and what is included. 

A good rickshaw tour of the Hanoi old quarter should include the following things: Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, one pillar pagoda, the temple of literature, Quan Thanh temple and the Tran Quoc pagoda.  The best way to arrange a rickshaw tour of Hanoi is to walk around the old quarter. You will see plenty of rickshaw riders waiting for customers. A rickshaw tour of a Hanoi old quarter should cost around 200,000VND – 300,000VND for an hour.  However, it is worth being aware that some rickshaw guides try to charge a lot more than this. Therefore, you will need to be able and willing to barter.

2 See the water puppet show

One of the most unique things to do in Hanoi with kids is see the water puppet show. This is a great way to help children connect with Vietnamese culture. The Hanoi water puppet show is a curious and fun experience. Watch small puppets performing in a pool of water.  The puppets act out a storyline. It is very hard to discern the storyline across the language barrier.  However, kids are likely to enjoy the enthusiasm, charm, energy and color of the experience. Lighting, smoke and live music are used to enhance the show. 

Our boys genuinely loved the Vietnamese water puppet show, however this may not be suitable for young kids. Water puppet shows start at 5.20pm and 6.30pm, with an additional 8pm show on fridays and saturdays. The show takes around 1 hour. There is also an early show on Sundays at 4.10pm. Tickets can be purchased from the office at the theater. Prices range between 100,000 – 200,000VND depending on your choice of seat. 

3 Visit Chewy Puff Junior

Looking for a fun family treat? One of our favorite things to do in Hanoi with kids is go for a pastry at chewy puff junior. This lovely little bakery makes freshly prepared chewy puff pastries. They are made up of a delicious chaux pastry filled with various flavours of cream and topped with decadent and tempting toppings. The menu has a wide range of choices so you can choose the perfect treat for you and your kids. They also offer mini chewy puffs. 

4 Play at Kidzoona

Don’t miss our FULL GUIDE to Kidzoona Asia

One of the best things to do in Hanoi with kids is go to Kidzoona. This is a fun, creative and engaging indoor play space for children.  There are no age restrictions at Kidzoona; However, the activities are ideal for children under 12 years old. We absolutely loved the mix-up of different activity types. They have sections for creative play, active play, imaginative play and relaxing play.

Kidzoona Hanoi has an indoor zipline, a ball bit, a bouncy strip, inflatable wheels (kids can roll inside) and a climbing frame with slides. They have sections with costumes and imaginative shops and other career games.  This is a relatively, safe and secure activity which is well staffed. They also offer engaging group activities including song, dance and crafts. Kidzoona  Do not offer any daycare services. Therefore, an adult does need to be present to supervise children. There is a comfortable café area and supervision is very low maintenance as kids will be engaged with the games and activities.

Kidzoona Hanoi is located at Aeon Mall (Long Bien) to the east side of the Red River. The 10km journey is likely to take around 20 minutes from the old quarter and costs around 100,000VND (depending on the route and traffic). Prices are as follows: 120,000VND monday – friday and 150,000VND on Saturday and Sunday. Remember to bring socks for kids. There are some other soft play spaces and arcades right next to Kidzoona. Aeon Mall also has an extensive food court on the ground floor.

5 Try a Vietnamese dessert

If you’re looking for things to do in Hanoi with kids why not try some of the local desserts? If you take a walk around the old quarter at night you’ll see plenty of small cafes serving a range of fascinating and unique desserts.

One example of a unique dessert in Hanoi is Chè khoai dẻo. This is is a traditional Vietnamese dessert that is made with tarot and sweet potatoes. It is served cold and usually topped with sweetened condensed milk, coconut cream, and various other ingredients. The mixture is sometimes poured over ice cubes to keep it cool. Kids may or may not like this strange mixture, however it is bound to be a new and fun experience.

6 Take a swan boat

A fun and relaxing thing to do in Hanoi with kids is take a pedal boat and explore the lake. The pedal boats are Swan shaped and can take 2 people. If you would like to rent a pedal boat go to Highlands coffee on the south side of Truc Bach lake (Hồ Trúc Bạch).  From here you can rent a pedal boat for 100,000 VND per hour.

7 Visit some temples

If you are looking for cultural and educational things to do in Hanoi with kids, why not visit some of the old quarter temples?  There are plenty of beautiful temples around and most of them are free to visit.  This would be a great way to integrate some world schooling into your travels. If you are visiting the temples of Hanoi with kids, why not bring along a sketch pad or camera? This is a great way for kids to learn about art, culture and history.

Here are a few of the best Hanoi temples to visit with kids: Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem lake.  This temple is very centrally located and the situated on a small island in the lake making it a fun and unique experience. It costs 30,000VND to see this temple.  We also recommend a visit to the unique One pillar pagoda, the temple of literature, Quan Thanh temple and the Tran Quoc pagoda.

8 Explore train street 

If you are looking for unique things to do in Hanoi with kids make sure you don’t miss train street Hanoi . Train street is a narrow section of street with train tracks running down the middle. Train street is lined with lots of small coffee shops and cafes. This is a great place for the family to enjoy a drink and  experience a unique area of town. The train line here is an active line. However, trains are not very frequent. There are also local members of staff to make sure that people stay off the train tracks and warn people when trains are coming. It is free to visit train street in Hanoi.

9 Watch a street performance

Watching a live street performance is another great way to help kids connect with the fascinating and unique culture in Hanoi.  In the evening the Hanoi old quarter comes to life with street food, coffee shops, bars and street performances. This is a “right place right time” experience, but you don’t generally need to walk too far to see a performance. Whether it is traditional dance, live music or acting, there is normally something fun and engaging to watch.  Whilst you’re in the old quarter also make sure that you make the most of the incredible street food available.

10 Try some local art and craft

Another great thing to do in Hanoi with kids is try some local art and craft. In the old quarter you can occasionally find people sitting out on tables doing art and craft activities in the evening. If you are interested in joining, you only need to pay a small amount of money to be given some materials.  This is a great way to connect with locals and learn more about the art, culture and history of this beautiful city.

What are the BEST tours in Hanoi for families?

Why not book some super family friendly tours in Hanoi? For example, Make sure you don’t miss a thing with the ONE DAY Hanoi City Tour on Klook . If you’re after adventure and natural beauty why not take the ONE DAY Hoa Lu, Tam Coc, Mua Cave Day Tour on Klook ?

What are the best family hotels in Hanoi?

Looking to splash out in Hanoi? Don’t miss our FULL guide to the best 5 star hotels in Hanoi – there are some seriously decadent places, and many of them offer amazing family suites.

1 Old town Palace Guesthouse

Price range: £15 – £20

Best family rooms: Triple, quadruple and family room

If you’re looking for budget family hotels in Hanoi then check out Old Town Palace guest house. This Guest House offers some of the cheapest accommodation available to families in Hanoi. There is an impressive range of rooms available to accommodate different family sizes. They also have ensuite private bathrooms. Children over 6 years old are considered adults at this property (that means they pay adult price!) There is no capacity for additional beds or cots at the Old Town Palace guest house. 

2 Golden Time Hostel

Price range: £15 – £30

Best family rooms: Superior triple – double and a single bed and Family room – two large double beds 

Golden Time Hostel is one of the cheapest family hotels in Hanoi. This is a great option for families on the budget who don’t want to compromise on location. Golden Time Hostel is located right in the heart of the Hanoi old quarter super close to lots of amazing street food, cafes and shops. The Golden Time Hostel offers an excellent range of room options for families. If you’re traveling as a family of three, we recommend the superior triple room. A family of four could occupy the family room, there are two large double beds which are big enough to share. Children of any age are welcome at The Golden time hostel. However, it is important to be aware that there is no capacity for additional beds or cots. 

3 Hanoi Garden Hotel and Spa

Price range: £50 – £90 

Best family rooms: Family room – two large double beds (accommodates up to 4 people) and a family room with a double and single bed.

If you are looking for luxury at affordable prices – then check out the Hanoi Garden Hotel and Spa. The whole property has a classy indochine interior design theme. We love the use of rich dark woods and stylish classical furniture. Rooms are spacious, comfortable and beautifully furnished. There are a couple of family rooms available at the Hanoi Garden Hotel. One of the family rooms has two double beds and is able to accommodate a family of 4 people. All rooms are ensuite and include additional comfortable furniture and artwork. 

4 Acoustic Hotel & Spa

Price range: £80 – £800

Best family rooms: The deluxe connecting room suite has 3 large double beds and can sleep up to 6 people. The family suite can sleep up to 4 people with two large double beds. 

The Acoustic Hotel & Spa is an impressive 4 star hotel with excellent options for larger family groups. The deluxe connecting room suite has 3 large double beds and two connected rooms. This is ideal for a larger family – providing space, comfort and privacy. The maximum capacity is 6 people – very unique for a Hanoi hotel. They also have a family suite with two double beds, this can sleep up to 4 people. You may also be interested in the executive suite with a decadent bathtub. They also have a spa, fitness centre and lounge areas. They can also offer a FREE cot (for 0 – 3 year olds) and can add extra beds to rooms. 

5 Oriental Jade 

Price range: £300 – £1,000

Best family rooms: Connecting suites can accommodate up to 4 guests

The Oriental Jade is one of the most luxurious family hotels in Hanoi. This impressive 5-star hotel has a wide range of rooms and suites to meet everyone’s needs. The Pearl Connect suite is a great option for families. This suite has two rooms and offers a large double bed and two single beds. This suite can sleep up to 4 people. There is an ensuite bathroom with a bathtub – a relatively unique feature in Hanoi. Rooms have excellent views of the Hanoi old quarter and landmarks. This impressive hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and a rooftop poolside bar. The Oriental also offers a very impressive buffet breakfast. The Thang Long Signature restaurant offers Vietnamese, Asian and European cuisine. 

Looking for more inspiration?

We also have an EPIC guide on THE BEST things to do in Vietnam with kids

Don’t miss our ULTIMATE step by step 10 day Vietnam itinerary . This super detailed guide tells you exactly how to see and experience the best of Vietnam in only 10 days!

You may also be interested in our 3 day Hanoi itinerary OR our independent self-guided city tour of Hanoi

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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