There are several things to do in Hanoi other than exploring its main attractions.
As the capital of Vietnam, this city is filled with wonders and things to see and do! From its French-colonial buildings to its very own authentic Vietnamese cuisines – you will surely be on an exciting adventure.
Try the Egg Coffee at Giang Cafe
Have you ever heard about egg coffee? Don’t frown if you haven’t – it is definitely tasty and it is famous in Hanoi. The egg coffee is served at the Giang’s Cafe for several years.
Its taste is similar to that of a beaten egg nog and egg yolk mixed with condensed milk giving out a cloud like resemblance.
A shot of traditional Vietnamese coffee is then poured over the top giving you a smooth fluffy foam but with a kick of caffeine.
Watch a Performance at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
One of the popular things to do in Hanoi is to watch the puppet performance at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. It’s an ultimate not to be missed in the city.
The theatre features a waist-level pool where the puppeteers stand. The puppets are then maneuvered using fixed long bamboo canes creating an illusive floating puppets on the water.
Here you will find a theatre that features a waist high pool of water that the puppeteers stand in.
The theatre showcases local stories from legends and farming tales or Vietnamese fables. Accordingly, this type of performance started during a flooding of a rice field in a rural area of Vietnam where locals dance with puppets on the flood to entertain themselves.
Get Social and Drink Bia Hoi on the Street
Who can say no to Bia Hoi? Bia Hoi is Vietnam’s famous beer that can be found mostly on its streets and its neighbouring areas.
You’d be surprised to know the locals of the North consider drinking beer a ritual that starts from 4PM onwards. They set up some plastic chairs on the streets to drink home-brewed beer called Bia Hoi.
The beer is considered the most natural beer as it doesn’t include any preservatives. Basically, to make sure nothing is spoiled, these beers are consumed on the day of its production! (That’s a lot of good time and bantering on the streets with your friends!)
Make Your Own Pottery at Bat Trang Ceramic Village
One of the most popular things to do in Hanoi that is swarmed by tourists is pottery making. It is offered in several stores at the traditional village of Bat Trang.
Pottery making is usually one of the well-known family businesses in this village. They are produced in various shapes, styles and colours.
The village is popular in Vietnam and is usually visited by anticipating customers from nearby regions and of course, tourists.
Aside from the pots, this village also offers plates, cups, decors, religious items and accessories such as jewellery.
Experience pottery making in this village and get your creative juices working! Don’t fret if you don’t how because people at the stores are happy to help guide you through the process.
