A Week in Vietnam: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Tuesday, September 26: Arrival in Hanoi

Start your Vietnam adventure by arriving in Hanoi, the vibrant capital city. In the morning, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets filled with shops and street food stalls. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, 2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: $5-10 per person, 1 hour
Wednesday, September 27: Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Spend the morning cruising through the stunning limestone islands and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. In the afternoon, explore the hidden caves and kayak around the bay. Spend the night on the cruise ship.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: $100-150 per person, 1 day
Thursday, September 28: Hue

Fly from Hanoi to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its majestic palaces and temples. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tombs of the Emperors. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Hue cuisine dinner.

  • Imperial City: $5-10 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Boat ride and Thien Mu Pagoda: $10-15 per person, 2 hours
  • Tombs of the Emperors: $5-10 per person, 2-3 hours
Friday, September 29: Hoi An

Travel from Hue to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture. In the morning, take a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Town and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and ancient houses. In the afternoon, join a lantern-making workshop and cruise along the Thu Bon River. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a riverside restaurant.

  • Old Town walking tour: $5-10 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Lantern-making workshop: $10-15 per person, 2 hours
  • River cruise: $5-10 per person, 1 hour
Saturday, September 30: My Son Sanctuary

Explore the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, visit the Cham temples and learn about the rich history of the Champa Kingdom. In the afternoon, return to Hoi An and spend the rest of the day relaxing on An Bang Beach or exploring the colorful lantern-lit streets.

  • My Son Sanctuary: $10-15 per person, 3-4 hours
  • An Bang Beach: Free, flexible
  • Exploring Hoi An streets: Free, flexible
Sunday, October 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic landmarks of the city, such as the Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and enjoy a cyclo ride around the city. In the evening, experience the bustling nightlife and try delicious street food.

  • Reunification Palace: $5-10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Notre Dame Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2 hours
  • Cyclo ride: $5-10 per person, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 2: Mekong Delta

Embark on a fascinating day trip to the Mekong Delta. In the morning, cruise along the Mekong River and visit local villages and floating markets. Enjoy a delicious lunch with regional specialties. In the afternoon, explore the fruit orchards and take a sampan ride through the winding canals. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Mekong Delta day trip: $30-50 per person, 8-10 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, head to the enchanting town of Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province. Take a boat ride through the stunning limestone karsts and lush rice paddies. Another hidden gem is the mountain town of Sapa, known for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant ethnic markets. Spend a day trekking through terraced rice fields and interacting with the local hill tribes.

If you're looking for a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park in Nha Trang. Enjoy thrilling rides, water slides, and an aquarium. The coastal city of Da Nang also offers family-friendly attractions, including the Sun World Ba Na Hills amusement park and the beautiful My Khe Beach.

Remember to check KAYAK for the best hotel and flight prices to make your Vietnam trip even more affordable and convenient.

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