Traveling with your kids is always not an easy task and many people find it challenging to design a Vietnam family vacation. Your kids may get bored by a classic itinerary with so many museums, temples, pagodas, etc. I bet you wish you would find this blog sooner as with the below suggestions, your work will be so much easier. Let’s check some best places in Vietnam for families to plan your journey perfectly.
Best Places in Vietnam for Families
For more detailed information and ideas for activities at each destination, here are the best cities to visit in Vietnam with family.
Hanoi
In Hanoi, you should spend 2 days exploring this ancient modern city. The capital offers a wonderful mix of experiences by visiting highlight historic attractions and enjoying fun activities like motorbike tours to see local life through narrow alleys.
Best things to do in Hanoi for family that cater to different ages and interests:
– Start with a half-day city tour visiting Hanoi highlights including Ho Chi Minh Complex, the Temple of Literature and Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
– In the afternoon, jump on a motorbike or jeep tour to see the vibrant streets and witness local life up close.
Important safety note for kids & elderly parents: Hanoi’s motorbike tour is one of the most favorite activities for families because you and your kids can deeply enjoy the streets and local atmosphere. However, if your child is under 10 years old or you’re traveling with elderly parents, it’s better to join a jeep tour for comfortable seats and enhanced safety. The jeep tours provide the same cultural immersion while ensuring everyone feels secure and comfortable throughout the journey.
– Evening brings the perfect opportunity to join a street food tour where your children can taste authentic Vietnamese flavors.
– Visit Thanh Ha local market where you and your children can witness fresh food culture and observe the fascinating differences between Western and Asian food presentation.
– Don’t miss Train Street for an afternoon coffee break, and consider visiting Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum again in the evening to see the Flag Lowering Ceremony.
Ninh Binh
Plan to spend 2 days in Ninh Binh to fully appreciate this stunning destination. The area provides a perfect balance of adventure and cultural exploration, with activities ranging from boat rides through scenic waterways to temple visits that offer glimpses into Vietnam’s spiritual heritage.
What can you and your kids can do when visiting Ninh Binh?
– Your family will discover amazing experiences including boat trips through Tam Coc caves where you’ll glide under natural rock formations.
– The 500-step climb to Mua Cave viewpoint becomes an exciting family challenge, and the summit view explains why this vista appears on Vietnam’s tourism posters.
Important note for Mua Cave: Climbing to Mua Cave involves nearly 500 steps, which might be challenging for young children or elderly family members. For a more accessible alternative, consider visiting Thanh Ha Cave instead, which offers equally spectacular views with easier access. The boat rides are generally suitable for all ages, but bring sun protection and snacks to keep everyone comfortable during the longer excursions.
– Cycling tours through rice paddies and traditional villages.
– Visits to ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda complex. Explore Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex with its network of caves and grottos
– Take scenic walks through Hoa Lu ancient capital, and enjoy peaceful moments watching local farmers work in the emerald rice fields. The region also offers opportunities for your children to interact with local water buffalo and learn about traditional farming methods.
Halong Bay
Your family should dedicate 2-3 days to experience the magic of Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic places to visit in Vietnam with kids. It is because such an excursion offers many interesting activities that all family members will enjoy together. Most of the children are keen on exploring the beautiful outdoors. So you and your kids will have the chance to discover amazing caves with a Halong Bay overnight cruise. You will be surprised at how attentive your kids are when they are hearing how the cave was formed.
Best things to do in Halong Bay for family:
– Kayaking through hidden lagoons. This activity is often voted as a highlight when your travel to Halong Bay that both the young and middle-aged people enjoy.
– Swimming in secluded bays
– Exploring magnificent caves like Sung Sot Cave.
– Your children will love fishing from the boat deck, learning about marine life from knowledgeable guides, and perhaps even trying their hand at traditional Vietnamese cooking classes offered on many cruises.
– When night falls, the family can just chat on the sundeck to enjoy the sky on the sea or try squid fishing.
– On the second morning, some boats offer a trip to a local floating fishing village and you may teach your kids how the pearl is naturally created.
Travel tips to choose the best overnight cruise: There is a wide range variety cruises types from luxury to budget cruises with different itineraries, so it’s better to read our blog about Halong travel guide to have an overview. Book cabins with windows or balconies so your children can safely enjoy the stunning scenery, and pack motion sickness remedies just in case. The calm waters of Halong Bay rarely cause seasickness, but it’s always better to be prepared for your Vietnam family vacation.
Sapa
Allocate 3-4 days for Sapa to fully immerse your family in Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain scenery. This highland town offers breathtaking rice terraces, ethnic minority villages, and cool mountain air that provides a refreshing break from Vietnam’s tropical heat.
Your family can enjoy trekking through world-famous rice terraces, visiting colorful ethnic minority markets in Bac Ha, taking scenic cable car rides to Fansipan peak, and staying overnight in traditional homestays where your children can learn about local customs. The region offers gentle hiking trails suitable for families, traditional craft workshops where kids can try their hand at local arts, and opportunities to interact with friendly local communities. Weekend markets provide vibrant cultural experiences where your family can observe traditional clothing, local foods, and age-old trading practices.
Above are just some highlights, you can find more Sapa off the beaten track experiences in our blog to have a trip that match you most.
Things should note: The journey to Sapa takes about 6 hours from Hanoi, so consider your children’s comfort during the mountain drive and plan rest stops accordingly. The higher altitude means cooler temperatures, so pack warm clothing even during summer months. Choose family-friendly trekking routes and consider hiring local guides who can adapt the pace and difficulty to match your children’s abilities and interests.
Pu Luong
Pu Luong is a lesser-known destination offering the same stunning mountain scenery as Sapa but with a more serene, untouched atmosphere perfect for families seeking peaceful nature experiences. The two-day, one-night minimum stay creates perfect balance between adventure and cultural immersion without feeling rushed. The journey begins with a shuttle bus from Hanoi, which takes just over 5 hours. You can then take a car to visit Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.
The terraced rice fields create photo opportunities that will fill your camera, while kids burn energy hiking to Kho Muong Cave and splashing in Hieu Waterfall’s cool waters.
Go hiking at Kho Muong Cave for an adventurous family experience. The scenery along the way is absolutely stunning, and you should visit this place at about 4pm to see the sunset.
Things you should know: Pu Luong and Sapa offer similar rice terrace scenery, but Sapa provides more stunning views due to higher elevation. However, Pu Luong takes only 4 hours from Hanoi versus Sapa’s 6 hours, making it more manageable for families. Pu Luong remains more serene and less crowded. Your choice depends on children’s health and travel preferences. If you need help deciding between these destinations and want assistance designing your Vietnam family vacation, contact our travel consultants here or email at [email protected] to let us help you customize your itinerary matching your specific travel interests and family needs.
Hoi An
Let’s move on to Hoi An next. Spend 3-4 days in Vietnam’s most family-friendly destination balancing cultural experiences with relaxation. Spend a day leisurely cycling through the scenic countryside of Vietnam, away from the traffic, motor scooters, and city noise. This is one of the best places in Vietnam for families, as there are a wide variety of experiences that you and your children can enjoy.
There is a very interesting experience for a family – Cooking Class. You board the Red Bridge boat for a leisurely cruise (25 minutes) along the Hoi An River. Joining this class, you will have a chance to visit a busy local market, talk, and bargain with some local sellers as well as learn about unique ingredients that are often used in Vietnamese dishes. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the local lives along the river.
Since Hoi An is an ancient town, consider taking your kids to join sleeping mat workshops to explore everything from discovering how wooden river boats are made to learning the secrets of weaving colorful straw “Hoi An” sleeping mats. These hands-on experiences provide educational entertainment that suits even adults, creating lasting memories for your entire family during your Vietnam family vacation.
>>> Read more: Discover Hidden Gems: 9 Unique Things to do in Hoi An & Tips to beat the crowd
Mekong Delta
Spend 2-3 days exploring the Mekong Delta to experience Vietnam’s agricultural heartland and traditional river life. The Mekong Delta offers families a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam’s lush countryside and vibrant river life. Your family can take boat trips through floating markets, cycle along scenic paths, and visit traditional villages. Don’t miss attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market, and Tra Su Cajuput Forest.
The next spot to visit is Tan Phong Island, where you can explore the village by biking or taking a walk to observe the local daily life. Interesting things to see include orchards, schools, churches, pagodas, and traditional houses.
On the way, you can make a few stops to see how they make rice net for spring rolls, sew coconut leaves for cottage roofs, and especially see how they weave the dried water hyacinth to make many products such as baskets, bags, hats, wallets, and shoes.
Tips to note: Choose boat tours that include multiple stops and activities to keep children engaged throughout the journey. The region can be quite hot and humid, so plan morning activities and afternoon rest periods. Bring insect repellent and sun protection, and ensure your children stay hydrated during boat trips. Consider overnight stays in local homestays for a more authentic experience, but verify comfort levels and facilities beforehand to ensure they meet your family’s needs.
>>> Read more: 10+ Unique Things To Do in Mekong Delta & Tips to beat the crowd
Ho Chi Minh
My last stop is Saigon and the picked activity is exploring Saigon at night on Motorbikes. Such a tour often starts around 18:00 then you can combine it with your classic city tour/Cu Chi tunnels tour or even Mekong Delta day tour. The best thing about this activity is that you will be taken to interesting places that normally other tourists do not know.
The tour is safe for all age groups, as the drivers are regularly trained and tested. Children under 7 years of age may ride with you, while older children can ride with a local driver.
Phu Quoc
If your idea of a perfect Vietnam family vacation is all about relaxing in a luxury resort while your children amuse themselves on the beach, then Phu Quoc is for you. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by lounging on the charming beaches, exploring vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling and scuba diving, or immersing yourself in the rich local culture, Phu Quoc has something for everyone.
You can get to Phu Quoc Island by air or speedboat. If you choose to reach by air, you can take direct flights from major cities in Vietnam like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Another type to reach this island is a combination of road and waterway. Overall, it depends on your itinerary and budget to choose transportation. You can visit this comprehensive travel guide to Phu Quoc to have an overview of things to do, and how to get there with details information about prices and routes.
How many days is enough? Suggested Vietnam itinerary with kids
For Vietnam family vacation, the recommended length of stay can vary depending on your interests and travel plans. Below are some general guidelines and our suggested Vietnam itinerary with kids you can take as a reference:
– 12-14 days gives you time to explore the country highlights at a comfortable pace with the more of cultural diversity and natural beauty of Vietnam. This Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks familys covers the best destinations from north to south Vietnam, offering a perfect view of the country’s culture, history, and cuisine, as well as its natural landscapes and daily life.
– 16-21 days: With this longer duration, you can include all the major destinations and have ample time for activities like hiking, cooking classes, or beach time. You can also venture into regions like Sapa, or add Nha Trang, or Da Lat to your itinerary. The Grand Sensational Vietnam 20 Days covers the highlights but mixes with off-the-beaten-track and hands-on experiences from bustling cities, and mountainous areas to beautiful beaches, and much more.
If you want to explore beyond Vietnam, here are some suggested Vietnam and Cambodia family tours that cater to different interests and durations. As we specialize in PRIVATE TOUR, your itinerary is customizable to suit your travel preferences. If you are ready explore Vietnam and further Indochina countries with us, drop us your request through THIS FORM or email at [email protected] to get the quote.
Is it worth choosing private Vietnam family tours?
It is important to have a rough itinerary in place while traveling, but it is also necessary to remain flexible and allow for some downtime. Traveling with children can be unpredictable, so it is essential to be ready to adjust the plans as needed and take breaks when necessary.
It is advised to make time for rest and relaxation, particularly after long days of sightseeing and exploration. You should opt for a private family tour that offers a more relaxed schedule and pace, which can prevent your children from getting overwhelmed or exhausted, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.
>>> Read our full family feedbacks on Trip Advisor
Getting around with kids
Domestic Flights
If you plan to visit multiple destinations within Vietnam, domestic flights can be a time-efficient option, especially for long distances. Some common flight routes are Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh (or vice versa), Hanoi – Danang (or vice versa), Hanoi – Hue (or vice versa), Ho Chi Minh – Phu Quoc.
Trains
Train travel can be a fun and scenic option, especially for older children who enjoy the journey. Some common train routes that travelers take most are Hanoi – Hue, Hue – Hoian or Hanoi – Sapa, providing a unique experience and saving on accommodation costs for longer trips.
Public Buses
Public buses are a common mode of transportation in Vietnam, but they may not be the most comfortable option for families with young children. Buses can be crowded and lack amenities such as seat belts or storage space for strollers.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available in major cities. Ensure the safety of your children by using reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps. Always check that the driver uses a meter or agrees on a fixed price before starting the journey.
When is the best time for Vietnam family vacation?
Vietnam has a diverse climate and different regions experience varying weather patterns throughout the year. For families planning to visit Vietnam, the best time to go is from September to April, when the weather is not too hot, humid, or rainy. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Pu Luong, and Sapa) is best visited from March to April to avoid the summer heat. Autumn (September to November) typically brings mild and pleasant weather.
Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang) is ideal to visit from February to June when the weather is warm and dry. It’s best to avoid the rainy season, which usually occurs from November to January.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): The dry season from December to May is generally the ideal time to visit as the weather is sunny and rainfall is minimal.
>>> Read more: When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?
Safety tips
Food and drink: You know your little honey well. And it is certain that you know what he or she always likes to eat: fried rice and/or French fries, right? Well, as Vietnam is awash with both fall-back foods, you do not need to worry. In fact, Vietnamese French fries may actually be a cut above the fries from home, served with a dipping bowl of sugar and butter. Let your little one judge how delicious it is.
Road safety: Vietnam is a safe country for children. However, there is one important point to know; traffic can be very chaotic. Motors, cars and trucks pass each other and there seem to be no real traffic rules.
Crossing busy streets seems dangerous, but the key is to walk at a steady pace and be predictable. Traffic continues to flow around you. Check out the locals for tips or follow them closely.
I hope that in this travel guide, you can find the most interesting experiences for your Vietnam family vacation have some first trip ideas for your trip. All the tours above can be considered inspirational tours, you can click here or email [email protected] to share your travel preferences and get a quote from our travel consultants. We will get back to you within 12 hours!
