Exploring Vietnam Dubai: A 7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary
Monday, December 18: Arrival in Vietnam Dubai
Welcome to Vietnam Dubai! Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. In the afternoon, head to Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi, for a leisurely walk around the picturesque lake. In the evening, explore the bustling Old Quarter and indulge in some delicious Vietnamese street food.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Old Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A cozy café serving a variety of Vietnamese breakfast classics, such as banh mi sandwiches and pho noodle soup. Average cost for a meal is about 50,000 VND (2.17 USD) per person.
A local restaurant offering a wide range of Vietnamese dishes for lunch, including fresh spring rolls and grilled pork with noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND (4.34 USD) per person.
A vibrant restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including dishes like beef pho and caramelized pork belly. Average cost for a meal is about 150,000 VND (6.51 USD) per person.
Tuesday, December 19: Discover the Charm of Hoi An
Take a morning flight to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved ancient town. Start your day with a visit to the Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic symbol of Hoi An. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes and shop for unique handicrafts. End the day with a boat ride along the tranquil Thu Bon River, experiencing the magical lantern-lit ambiance in the evening.
Japanese Covered Bridge: 120,000 VND (approx. $5), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Majestic Halong Bay Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable day cruise to the mesmerizing Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the stunning limestone karsts jutting out of the emerald waters. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board while cruising through the picturesque scenery. Take part in activities like kayaking and cave exploration. Return to Hanoi in the evening.
Halong Bay Cruise: 1,500,000 VND (approx. $65), Full day
Thursday, December 21: Adventures in Da Nang
Fly to Da Nang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Start your day with a visit to the Marble Mountains, a group of five limestone and marble hills offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, head to the famous My Khe Beach for some sun, sand, and relaxation. In the evening, explore the Dragon Bridge and catch the mesmerizing fire and water show.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Quang Noodle House, where you can enjoy a bowl of traditional Quang noodles filled with flavorful herbs, fresh shrimp, and succulent pork. The average cost for a meal here is about 80,000 VND per person.
For a tasty and affordable lunch option, head to Madame Lan Restaurant. Indulge in a variety of Vietnamese dishes such as banh xeo (savory pancake) and pho (noodle soup) while enjoying the casual and welcoming atmosphere. The average cost for a meal here is about 120,000 VND per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Waterfront Restaurant & Cafe. Located by the Han River, this restaurant offers stunning views of the city skyline while serving a delectable menu of fresh seafood and international cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is about 400,000 VND per person.
Friday, December 22: Cultural Delights in Hue
Take a day trip to the imperial city of Hue, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel, home to the Nguyen Dynasty's royal palaces and temples. Visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda and take a boat cruise along the Perfume River. Enjoy traditional Hue cuisine for lunch and return to Da Nang in the evening.
Hue Citadel: 150,000 VND (approx. $7), 2-4 hours
Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1-2 hours
Perfume River Boat Cruise: 200,000 VND (approx. $9), 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Hue is Pho Gia Truyen, known for its delicious bowl of traditional pho. Average cost for a meal is about 70,000 VND per person.
For lunch, try Lien Hoa Vegetarian Restaurant, which offers a range of delectable vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100,000 VND per person.
For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Hue at Ancient Hue Restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200,000 VND per person.
Saturday, December 23: Nature and History in Nha Trang
Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal resort city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Begin your day with a visit to Vinpearl Land, an amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park. In the afternoon, explore the historic Po Nagar Cham Towers, dating back to the 8th century. Relax on the beach and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city in the evening.
Po Nagar Cham Towers: 22,000 VND (approx. $1), 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Farewell to Vietnam Dubai
Spend your last day in Vietnam Dubai at your leisure. Take some time to relax on the beach or explore the local markets for some last-minute shopping. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner before heading to the airport for your departure.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the VinWonders Nha Trang, a theme park with various entertainment options for all ages. Another hidden gem is the Cham Island, located off the coast of Hoi An, offering pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Locals also recommend exploring the rural countryside of Hoi An by bicycle, passing through picturesque landscapes and interacting with friendly locals.
For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak.com to find the best deals.