12 Fun Things to Do in Hanoi With Kids

Planning a trip to Hanoi with the kids? You’re in for a treat! Hanoi’s lively streets, historic landmarks, and engaging activities make it an ideal destination for families. From puppet shows to pottery classes, there’s no shortage of things to keep the little ones entertained. Discover 12 exciting and fun things to do in Hanoi with kids that will make your family vacation truly special.

1. Explore the Old Quarter

Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, filled with shops, street food vendors, and historical sites. Kids will love the vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to try local snacks.

  • Address: Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  • Fee: Free
Exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter

2. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake. The peaceful surroundings and the chance to learn about local legends will captivate children.

  • Address: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 30,000 VND for temple entry
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi

3. Experience the Water Puppet Show

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. This unique art form, with puppets dancing on water, will fascinate both kids and adults.

  • Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 100,000 – 200,000 VND per person
Traditional Vietnamese water puppet show in Hanoi

4. Discover the Temple of Literature

Explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Kids will enjoy the open spaces, ancient architecture, and the opportunity to learn about Vietnam’s educational history.

  • Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Dong Da District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 30,000 VND
The ancient architecture of the Temple of Literature in Hanoi

5. Play at West Lake Water Park

Spend a fun-filled day at West Lake Water Park, which offers various water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. It’s a great place for kids to cool off and have fun.

  • Address: 614 Lac Long Quan, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 100,000 – 150,000 VND per person
Fun water slides at West Lake Water Park in Hanoi

6. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. The museum features interactive exhibits, traditional houses, and artifacts that will engage kids’ curiosity.

  • Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 40,000 VND for adults, 10,000 VND for children
Interactive exhibits at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi

7. Explore the Hanoi Botanical Garden

Take a relaxing stroll through the Hanoi Botanical Garden, where kids can enjoy the greenery, spot various bird species, and even have a picnic.

  • Address: 3 Hoang Hoa Tham, Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
  • Fee: Free
Greenery and bird watching at Hanoi Botanical Garden

8. Ride a Pedal Boat on Truc Bach Lake

Rent a pedal boat and explore Truc Bach Lake. This activity is fun for the whole family and offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

  • Address: Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 50,000 – 100,000 VND per hour
Family riding a pedal boat on Truc Bach Lake in Hanoi

9. Explore the Bat Trang Pottery Village

Take a short trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village, where kids can try their hand at making pottery and learn about this traditional craft.

  • Address: Bat Trang Village, Gia Lam District, Hanoi
  • Fee: Free entry, small fee for pottery classes
Children making pottery at Bat Trang Pottery Village

10. Visit the Hanoi Zoo

Spend a day at the Hanoi Zoo, home to a variety of animals and located within a beautiful park. Kids can see exotic animals up close and enjoy the playgrounds.

  • Address: Thu Le Park, Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
  • Fee: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per person
Children observing animals at Hanoi Zoo

11. Take a Cyclo Ride

Experience Hanoi from a traditional cyclo, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. Kids will love the unique ride through the city’s bustling streets.

  • Address: Various locations in the Old Quarter
  • Fee: 100,000 – 150,000 VND per hour
Family enjoying a cyclo ride in Hanoi's Old Quarter

12. Join a Vespa Adventure Tour

For a unique and exciting experience, join Vespa Adventures’ family-friendly tour, The Insider’s Hanoi. Kids will enjoy riding on a Vespa through the streets of Hanoi, stopping at various attractions and trying local delicacies.

  • Tour Name: The Insider’s Hanoi
  • Activities: Savor traditional Bánh Gối dumplings, enjoy Bún Chả, and delight in Bánh Mì sandwiches. Experience West Lake with snacks of Bò Bía and Phở Cuốn. End the day at Hỏa Xa Cafe near the train tracks, sipping a refreshing beverage while watching the trains pass by.
  • Fee: From $75
Kids enjoying a Vespa ride through the streets of Hanoi.

Children having fun on a Vespa adventure in Hanoi

Fun Awaits Your Family!

Curious to explore even more with your kids? Discover more family-friendly adventures with Vespa Adventures’ tours here. These tours offer rich cultural experiences perfect for kids and parents alike.

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