Fun Things to Do in Hanoi with Kids

Unlike the modernity of Saigon, Hanoi always holds immense charm for those eager to explore its traditional cultural aspect. What's more, it's a top choice for families, thanks to its array of engaging and educational activities tailored for children. Exploring the best things to do in Hanoi with kids will create an unforgettable time for you and your family.

1. Handmade Ceramic products

The Bat Trang pottery village, steeped in history, is celebrated across Vietnam for its traditional craft. It's an ideal spot for families seeking an immersive pottery-making experience while visiting Hanoi.

Pottery making isn't just fun; it's also incredibly beneficial for a child's development. Kids can explore the malleable texture of clay and the transformative process of firing pottery, which fosters patience and dexterity. After finishing, kids can take their potters home. The cost of pottery-making in Bat Trang varies based on size and type but offers exceptional value and quality.

For those preferring closer options, pottery-making locations like Gom Chi or Authentic Bat Trang are conveniently located in the city center.

Information for the activity of making ceramic products:

• Open time: daily.
• Entrance is free. However, you can buy a plaster figurine at 10,000 - 15,000 VND (~0.41 - 0.61 USD)/piece to paint. Craft pottery, bake it, and take it home: 50,000 VND per one.
• Address: Bat Trang Village, Gom Chi or Authentic Bat Trang Ceramic Shop

2. Cooking Class

As the famous saying goes, "Food is more than just sustenance—it is an expression of culture, heritage, and creativity." Joining a cooking class offers a chance not only to create delicious dishes but also to delve into a country's cuisine and culture. In Vietnam, you can learn how to make the perfect iconic dishes like pho and spring rolls at those cooking classes.

Cooking classes are especially beneficial for children as they foster patience, dexterity, and a love for food. One of the highlights that children enjoy is visiting vibrant wet markets, where they can handpick fresh ingredients for their cooking class. This experience allows them to engage with local people and witness authentic local life firsthand.

Famous cooking class destinations include Apron Up Cooking Class, offering a variety of menu options. Other renowned places include Rose Kitchen Cooking Class Hanoi and Hoang’s Cooking Class.

Information for activity of cooking class:

• Open time: Daily classes open every day from 9 AM to 12 PM, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4 PM to 7 PM, and 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM
• Price: 32 USD per person, for joining with a group of 6 to 10 attendants. Higher price for private or premium class
• Address: No. 8 Gia Ngu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Website: https://www.apronupcookingclass.com/ 

3. Making paper masks

In recent years, the number of paper mask-making workshops in Hanoi has unfortunately declined, leaving Mr. Nguyen Van Hoa and Mrs. Dang Huong Lan as the sole remaining masters of this traditional craft. Located in a charming alley on Hang Than Street, Ba Dinh District, this couple offers personalized workshops where guests can experience the entire process of crafting paper masks.

From creating the base mold to meticulously gluing and painting the final design, participants learn every step under the guidance of the masters. This craft demands meticulousness and ingenuity, fostering patience in children while enhancing their dexterity and promoting creativity as they mix colors for their masks.

Due to the traditional nature of their craft, obtaining information about the couple online can be challenging. It's advisable to contact Ms. Lan in advance to reserve a spot. Alternatively, a private tour organized by a travel agency is also a good choice.

Information for the activity of making traditional paper masks:

• Open time: By appointment only. Call +84 912 052 029 to make a booking
• Price: ~200,000 VND (~10 USD) per person (includes materials and instruction)
• Address: 132 Hang Than, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

4. Taking a Cyclo Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter

Explore Hanoi's Old Quarter with a cyclo ride, immersing yourself in its rich history and bustling atmosphere. The Old Quarter's 36 streets, named after the goods traded there such as leather or silver, offer a glimpse into its vibrant past.

Cyclos offer a convenient way to navigate the crowded streets and enjoy the sights without tiring your legs. A comprehensive tour should include Hoan Kiem Lake, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar (Mot cot) Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, Quan Thanh Temple, and Tran Quoc Pagoda.

Your baby can observe the hustle and bustle of local life, which may differ from their hometown. Each culture holds fascinating stories, and witnessing them can help your child better understand the world, enriching their childhood experience.

Booking a private tour is advisable to avoid overcharging and ensure a smooth experience. You can easily find cyclo riders near Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square or Hang Ngang and Hang Dao streets.

Information for the activity of taking a Cyclo Tour of Hanoi Old Quarter:

• Open time: from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily
• Price: from 100,000 VND (~5 USD) to 300,000 (~15 USD)/ person/ cyclo
• Address: 7 Ward Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

5. Watching A Water Puppet Show

The Hanoi Water Puppet Show is a fantastic experience for everyone, especially children. It's a unique art form that showcases Vietnam's rich culture and heritage.

During the show, traditional Vietnamese stories come to life as puppets glide gracefully across the water. Even though kids might not understand the language, they'll be captivated by the lights, music, and excitement. Plus, the folk songs played during the show are a great way for them to appreciate Vietnamese art.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi is one of the best places to see this amazing spectacle. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for a seamless experience.

Information for the activity of watching a water puppet show:

• Open time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, every Monday to Friday
• Price: 100,000 VND (~5 USD) to 200,000 VND (~10 USD)
• Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi
• Website: https://thanglongwaterpuppet.com

6. Visiting the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi is a fascinating destination for children to discover Vietnam's diverse cultures. Located on Nguyen Van Huyen Street, this museum showcases the customs, traditional clothing, and artifacts of the country's 54 ethnic groups.

Language won't be a barrier here, as all exhibits are labeled in English. Plus, if you want a deeper understanding, guides fluent in English and French are available for an extra fee. There's a small fee for photography inside the museum. 

The museum regularly hosts captivating performances that highlight handicrafts and folk cultures from Vietnam, Southeast Asia, and beyond. It also features indoor exhibitions and a beautiful garden with examples of folk architecture. After exploring, kids can burn off energy at the playground in nearby Nghia Do Park.

Information for the activity of Vietnam Museum Ethnology:

• Open time: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, from Tuesday to Sunday. Close during the Lunar New Year
• Price: 40,000 VND (~1,64 USD) per person
• Address: Nguyen Van Huyen, Quan Hoa, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• Website: http://www.vme.org.vn/ 

7. Visiting the Temple of Literature

The Temple of Literature, also known as Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam, is a symbol of Hanoi's rich heritage as it is the first university in Vietnam. Today, it remains a revered place where students gather to seek blessings for their academic pursuits.

This impressive temple complex comprises five beautiful courtyards adorned with gardens, statues, and pagodas. Exploring the grounds offers a serene experience, with nature's beauty blending harmoniously with the surroundings. Children can also enjoy the ample space to play and explore.

The Temple of Literature is divided into five sections, each with its charm. The first courtyard, Dai Trung Mon, welcomes visitors with grandeur, while the elegant Khue Van Cac courtyard captivates with its beauty. The Thien Quang Well courtyard provides a peaceful retreat, while the Dai Thanh Mon courtyard impresses with its regal presence. Finally, the Imperial Academy courtyard stands as a testament to the temple's historical significance.

Visitors should observe certain rules and dress appropriately to show respect for the temple's solemnity and religious significance. Modest attire, avoiding short pants or skirts, is recommended. Additionally, maintaining a quiet demeanor and refraining from eating or drinking within the temple premises is essential.

Information for the activity of exploring the first Vietnamese University:

• Open time: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, daily (open from 7:30 AM in Winter season)
• Price: 30,000 VND per person for adults. Children under 15 are free
• Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da, Hanoi

8. Exploring Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi, is a delightful destination for families with children. This picturesque lake provides a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for kids to play and explore.

A must-see sight is the Turtle Tower, standing proudly in the center of the lake. Your children may enjoy hearing stories about Turtle Tower, as it's beloved by Vietnamese kids too. Also, don't forget to spend ample time playing with them in this spacious area. You'll also encounter adults exercising and bicycles selling flowers along the roadside, providing your children with a clearer glimpse into Vietnamese culture and daily life.

Spanning the lake is the charming Rising Sun Bridge, made of vibrant redwood. Crossing this bridge, Ngoc Son Temple offers a unique experience for visitors.

9. Visiting the Ho Tay Water Park

Ho Tay Water Park is the perfect spot for families seeking relief from the hot weather. With its range of water-based activities including swimming pools, slides, and rope swings, your children are guaranteed to have a fantastic time.

A highlight of the park is the dedicated Happy Land area, designed especially for younger children. Here, they can enjoy gentle slides, splash pools, fountains, and colorful characters in a safe and fun environment. Additionally, the park features an amusement park with kid-friendly rides like bumper cars, a carousel, and a Ferris wheel.

It's recommended to bring your swimsuits from home. However, if you forget or prefer not to, rentals are available at the park. Keep in mind that outside food and drinks are not allowed on the premises.

Information for water activity for kids in Hanoi:

• Open time: 08:00 AM to 09:00 PM, daily
• Price:

  • Guests higher than 135cm: 170.000 VND (~6,96 USD) per person from Monday to Friday. 190.000 VND (~7,78 USD) per person for the Weekend and holiday

  • Guests’ height from 90cm - 135cm: 145.000 VND (~5,94 USD) per person from Monday to Friday. 160.000 VND (~6,55 USD) per person for the Weekend and holiday

  • Note: discount of 100,000 VND (~5 USD) for booking after 5:00 PM. Free for guests under 90cm

• Address: 614 Lac Long Quan, Nhat Tan, Tay Ho, Hanoi

Safety Tips When Exploring the Hanoi with Kids

To ensure a pleasant trip with your children in Hanoi, it's important to observe safety precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Stay vigilant on bustling streets, holding your children's hands tightly and crossing only at designated crosswalks. Don’t forget to follow the walk signal (if any).
• Drink only bottled or boiled water, as tap water may not be safe. This applies to all cities in Vietnam you visit.
• Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your children from Hanoi's hot and sunny weather.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas, ensuring knees are covered.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Hanoi with your children.

Hanoi provides various enjoyable activities for families with children, guaranteeing a memorable and delightful trip. This captivating city showcases Vietnam's rich heritage while offering entertaining activities for guests of all ages. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to explore the beauty and charm of Hanoi with your kids.

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