A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Wednesday, October 18: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, explore the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about Vietnam's war history. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to gain further insights. Enjoy the evening at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try delicious local street food.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Cost: Approximately $15 per person, Time: 3-4 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Cost: Approximately $2 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Cost: Varies depending on purchases, Time: 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 19: Hoi An

Start your day with a visit to the ancient town of Hoi An. Explore the charming streets lined with yellow buildings and lanterns. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge. In the evening, participate in a lantern-making workshop and release your own lantern on the river.

• Ancient Town of Hoi An: Cost: Approximately $6 per person, Time: Full day
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Cost: Approximately $5 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
• Lantern-Making Workshop: Cost: Approximately $10 per person, Time: 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day at Morning Glory Restaurant, a popular breakfast spot in Hoi An. They serve a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes like pho and banh mi. Expect to spend around 100,000 VND per person.
• For lunch, head to Cargo Club, a charming restaurant known for its diverse menu and relaxing ambience. Try their famous Vietnamese spring rolls or opt for a tasty sandwich. The average cost for a meal here is about 150,000 VND per person.
• In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at Mango Mango, a riverside restaurant with stunning views of Hoi An. Indulge in their mouthwatering seafood dishes or try their Vietnamese specialties. The average cost for a meal here is about 300,000 VND per person.

Friday, October 20: Hue

Embark on a tour of Hue's Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the majestic palaces, temples, and royal tombs. In the afternoon, take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River and visit the Thien Mu Pagoda. Wrap up the day with a scenic sunset view at the abandoned Royal Tombs.

• Imperial City: Cost: Approximately $6 per person, Time: 3-4 hours
• Dragon Boat Cruise: Cost: Approximately $8 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Cost: Free admission, Time: 1-2 hours
• Royal Tombs: Cost: Approximately $6 per person, Time: 2-3 hours

Saturday, October 21: Ha Long Bay

Embark on an unforgettable cruise through the stunning limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Explore the caves, go kayaking, and enjoy swimming in the emerald waters. Feast on a sumptuous seafood lunch on board. Spend the night on a traditional junk boat and stargaze from the deck.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost: Approximately $100 per person, Time: Overnight

Sunday, October 22: Hanoi

Discover the charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter by taking a cyclo tour through the narrow streets. Visit the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple. In the evening, catch a traditional water puppet show, showcasing Vietnamese culture and storytelling.

• Cyclo Tour: Cost: Approximately $10 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Cost: Approximately $2 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Cost: Approximately $5 per person, Time: 1 hour

Monday, October 23: Ninh Binh

Explore the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Halong Bay on Land." Take a boat trip through Tam Coc or Trang An to admire the limestone karsts and lush rice paddies. Visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and explore the temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le dynasties.

• Tam Coc or Trang An Boat Trip: Cost: Approximately $10 per person, Time: 3-4 hours
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital: Cost: Approximately $2 per person, Time: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 24: Phu Quoc Island

Relax on the stunning beaches of Phu Quoc Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy shores. Enjoy snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring the island's natural beauty. Don't miss the opportunity to savor fresh seafood at one of the local beachfront restaurants.

• Beach Activities: Cost: Varies depending on activities, Time: Full day
• Seafood Dinner: Cost: Varies depending on restaurant choice, Time: Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Vinpearl Land amusement park in Nha Trang. It offers thrilling rides, a water park, and an aquarium. Another hidden gem is the Ba Na Hills near Da Nang, where you can ride the famous Golden Bridge and enjoy stunning mountain views. Both attractions are loved by locals and tourists alike.

Check out hotel and flight prices here.