Weekend in Hanoi

Self-guided walk through 36 streets named after their historic trades (Silk Street, Paper Street etc). Free to wander. See Dong Xuan Market for cheap eats and street life.

Tip: Start at Hang Bac (Silver Street) around 9am – the silver workshops are fascinating. Avoid motorbikes by sticking to the narrowest alleys. Street food here costs 20-40,000 VND a dish.

The central lake around which Hanoi revolves. Jade Island temple sits on a small island, accessible via a red wooden bridge. The lake itself is free; temple entry costs 20,000 VND.

Tip: Walk the lake at 6am to see locals doing tai chi and badminton. Sunset is crowded with photographers but worth it for the light on Turtle Tower.

Traditional water puppet shows performed in a pool. The puppets are controlled by submerged rods. Tickets cost 100,000 VND (about £3.30) – cheap for a unique cultural performance.

Tip: Book the 5:15pm show to avoid tourist crowds. Sit in row C or D – row A gets wet from splashes. Arrive 20 minutes early to see the puppets being prepared backstage (ask nicely).

Vietnam's first university, founded in 1070. A quiet complex of courtyards, pavilions and stone stelae recording scholars. Entry costs 30,000 VND (about £1).

Tip: Go early on a weekday to avoid tour groups. The back garden has a banyan tree and koi pond that most people miss.

Excellent museum covering Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Indoor exhibits show traditional houses, costumes and tools. Outdoor area has full-size replicas of stilt houses and longhouses. Entry 40,000 VND.

Tip: The outdoor section is the highlight – allow 2 hours. Go on a Saturday when ethnic minority guides sometimes give free tours. Taxi from the centre costs 50,000 VND.