7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Vietnam

Friday, December 1: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip in bustling Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, explore the historic Reunification Palace and learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to gain insight into the Vietnam War. In the evening, enjoy a walk around Ben Thanh Market, a vibrant hub of local culture and street food.

• Reunification Palace: Admission fee: $5, Time spent: 2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Admission fee: $2, Time spent: 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: No entry fee, Time spent: 2 hours

Saturday, December 2: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta. In the morning, take a boat tour along the picturesque canals, visit local fruit orchards, and try fresh tropical fruits. Afternoon activities include cycling through village lanes and enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch. In the evening, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Mekong Delta Day Trip: Cost: $30 per person, Time spent: Full day

Sunday, December 3: Hoi An

Fly to the charming town of Hoi An. Spend the morning exploring the well-preserved Ancient Town, with its narrow streets, wooden shophouses, and atmospheric lanterns. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River. In the evening, immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the Lantern Festival.

• Ancient Town: Admission fee: $6, Time spent: 4 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Admission fee: $2, Time spent: 1 hour
• Boat ride on Thu Bon River: Cost: $5, Time spent: 1 hour

Monday, December 4: Hue

Travel to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Imperial Citadel, and learn about Vietnam's royal history. In the afternoon, visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and take a boat ride on the Perfume River. In the evening, enjoy a royal-inspired dinner at a local restaurant.

• Imperial Citadel: Admission fee: $5, Time spent: 3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Admission fee: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
• Boat ride on Perfume River: Cost: $10, Time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Hanoi

Fly to the capital city of Hanoi. Begin the day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, including the iconic One Pillar Pagoda. In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Literature and the vibrant Old Quarter. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex: Admission fee: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Admission fee: $2, Time spent: 1 hour
• Old Quarter: No entry fee, Time spent: 3 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Cost: $5, Time spent: 1 hour

Wednesday, December 6: Halong Bay

Embark on a cruise to the breathtaking Halong Bay. Spend the day marveling at the limestone karsts, exploring hidden caves, and enjoying activities like kayaking or swimming. Overnight on the cruise ship, savoring a delicious seafood dinner amid the stunning scenery.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Cost: $100 per person, Time spent: 2 days

Thursday, December 7: Return to Hanoi

Return to Hanoi in the morning. Spend the day visiting the intriguing Hoa Lo Prison, also known as the "Hanoi Hilton," and the serene Tran Quoc Pagoda. In the evening, experience a traditional Vietnamese dinner and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Hanoi.

• Hoa Lo Prison: Admission fee: $2, Time spent: 2 hours
• Tran Quoc Pagoda: Admission fee: Free, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, head to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can explore the underground network used during the Vietnam War. Another local favorite is the Ba Na Hills in Da Nang, offering stunning views, amusement park rides, and the famous Golden Bridge. These attractions provide unique experiences for the whole family.

If you want to check hotel and flight prices, you can visit Kayak.