How to Spend a Memorable Night in Hanoi - Best After-Dark Distractions and Activities in Hanoi

Ranked among Vietnam's top tourist destinations, Hanoi is one of the few cities in the country, which boasts a dynamic nightlife scene. While the after-dark activities in Hanoi are not restricted to traditional activities such as dancing and drinking, there's plenty of fun to be had on a night out in this vibrant city. From spending a night at the opera to catching a water puppet show, here are some of the top things to do after dinner in captivating Hanoi.

1. Grab a Pint at Bia Hoi Junction

Occupying pride of place in Hanoi's Old Quarter, the Bia Hoi Junction is the perfect place to kick off a night out in the city. As an area that's popular among local revellers after sundown, the junction is also where Vietnam's favourite fresh beer hub Beer Hoi is found. Surrounded by shophouses and street food vendors, the junction allows travellers and local partygoers to wine and dine on tasty treats and exotic meals while soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant part of town. Although Vietnamese beer is not as strong as European varieties, it is still delicious and refreshing while also being reasonably priced.

2. Head to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre,Hanoi | Image via Wikimedia Commons

Culture buffs based at Pan Pacific Hanoi or any one of the other Hanoi hotels with pool facilities may find a water puppet show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre an engaging experience. Considered a must-experience highlight for first-time visitors, this Water Puppet Theatre is a beloved institution that's keeping this centuries-old tradition of water puppetry alive. Located in Hanoi's Hoan Kiem District, the shows consist of popular retellings of Vietnamese myths and stories in folklore. Accessible to visitors from 3 pm onwards, one must purchase tickets in advance as these water puppet shows are highly coveted among tourists.

3. Enjoy Live Music at Binh Minh's Jazz Club

Jazz fans who are looking to enjoy some live music and a drink or two in a trendy bar downtown will find no finer alternative to Binh Minh's Jazz Club. Renowned for its chic and dark interiors, the venue has been a fixture in the local jazz music scene for decades. Known to attract the best musicians in Hanoi and Vietnam at large, this is the country's own equivalent of the Troubadour in LA. While the drinks can cost a pretty penny, the quality of the bands and acts on stage and the impromptu jam sessions make the steep price of a cocktail well worth it. Open from 5 pm onwards, the Binh Minh's Jazz Club closes at midnight.

4. Get Tickets to the Hanoi Opera

The Hanoi Opera House is an architectural marvel in its own right but those who venture inside its stage door will find that the live performances that take place are perhaps even more impressive. 

While the Hanoi Opera House does not offer nightly performances, it is worth checking the event calendar of this prestigious performance arts space as there's bound to be a live opera or a musical showcase around the time of your visit. 

This venue is located in the heart of Hanoi's French Quarter, and a night at the Hanoi Opera can be a memorable encounter for those who appreciate the great live performances of classic operas.

Visitors to Hanoi who are fans of classical music and live performances will not want to miss the chance to attend a show at the Hanoi Opera House. With its stunning architecture, rich history and prestigious reputation, the Hanoi Opera House is truly a unique and awe-inspiring venue. From the moment you step inside the grand hall, you will be transported to another era, where the sounds of live music fill the air and the atmosphere is electric with excitement.