A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Thursday, November 16: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Afterward, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history. In the afternoon, stroll through the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and sample local street food. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Estimated cost: $15. Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost: $2. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost: VND 0 (free entrance). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost: $5-10. Time spent: 1 hour.

Friday, November 17: Hoi An

Start your day exploring the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Take a walking tour to admire the well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge. In the afternoon, visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village for a unique farming experience. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and release floating lanterns.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Estimated cost: VND 120,000 (entrance ticket). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Estimated cost: VND 50,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost: VND 100,000. Time spent: 1-2 hours.

Saturday, November 18: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hue Citadel. Explore the Imperial City, including the Forbidden Purple City. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner cruise in the evening.

• Hue Citadel: Estimated cost: VND 150,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Boat Trip on Perfume River: Estimated cost: VND 300,000. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Estimated cost: VND 30,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang: Estimated cost: VND 100,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Traditional Vietnamese Dinner Cruise: Estimated cost: $15-20. Time spent: 2 hours.

Sunday, November 19: Halong Bay

Embark on a memorable cruise through the stunning natural wonder of Halong Bay. Explore the limestone karsts, visit floating fishing villages, and enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming. Marvel at the breathtaking sunset over the bay and indulge in a delicious seafood dinner onboard. Spend the night on the cruise ship.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost: $100-200 per person. Time spent: Full day and overnight.

Monday, November 20: Hanoi

Arrive in Hanoi and start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby Presidential Palace. Explore the beautiful Temple of Literature and the bustling Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. In the evening, watch a water puppet performance, a unique Vietnamese art form.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Estimated cost: VND 25,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Temple of Literature: Estimated cost: VND 30,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Old Quarter: Estimated cost: VND 0 (free to explore). Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Water Puppet Performance: Estimated cost: VND 100,000. Time spent: 1 hour.

Tuesday, November 21: Ninh Binh

Take a day trip to Ninh Binh and explore the stunning landscapes of Tam Coc. Embark on a boat ride through the scenic river and limestone caves. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and the King Dinh and King Le temples. Enjoy a bicycle ride through the countryside and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

• Tam Coc Boat Ride: Estimated cost: VND 150,000. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Estimated cost: VND 20,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• King Dinh and King Le Temples: Estimated cost: VND 20,000 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Bicycle Ride: Estimated cost: VND 50,000 (rental). Time spent: 1-2 hours.

Wednesday, November 22: Phu Quoc Island

Fly to Phu Quoc Island and spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches. Take a dip in the turquoise waters, indulge in fresh seafood, and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking. Explore the local night market and savor delicious street food before returning to your hotel.

• Beach Relaxation: Estimated cost: Varies depending on activities. Time spent: Full day.
• Night Market: Estimated cost: Varies depending on purchases. Time spent: 2-3 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Explore the stunning cave systems, such as Paradise Cave and Dark Cave, and enjoy adventurous activities like zip-lining and mud bathing. It's a unique and exciting experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Check hotel and flight prices at Kayak.com.