Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam - April 13-19, 2024

Saturday April 13: Hanoi

Start your trip in the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. In the morning, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the peaceful gardens of the Presidential Palace. In the afternoon, take a cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show. In the evening, savor delicious street food at the lively Night Market.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: 100,000 VND ($4.30), 1-2 hours
• Presidential Palace: Free, 1 hour
• Cyclo Ride: 200,000 VND ($8.60), 1 hour
• Water Puppet Show: 100,000 VND ($4.30), 1 hour
• Night Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Sunday April 14: Halong Bay

Embark on a stunning cruise through the limestone islands of Halong Bay. Spend the morning marveling at the breathtaking scenery and exploring hidden caves. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch aboard the boat. In the afternoon, go kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters. As the evening approaches, indulge in a sunset dinner while gazing at the picturesque landscapes.

• Halong Bay Cruise: 2,000,000 VND ($86), Full day
• Kayaking/Swimming: Included in cruise package, 2-3 hours

Monday April 15: Hoi An

Travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, wander through the narrow streets lined with lanterns and visit the Japanese Covered Bridge. Explore the local markets and try your hand at lantern making in the afternoon. As the sun sets, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and admire the illuminated town.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: 120,000 VND ($5.20), 1 hour
• Lantern Making: 50,000 VND ($2.15), 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride: 150,000 VND ($6.45), 1 hour

Tuesday April 16: Hue

Visit the imperial city of Hue, known for its historical sites. In the morning, explore the majestic Hue Citadel and admire the Forbidden Purple City. Experience a traditional Vietnamese royal meal for lunch. In the afternoon, take a dragon boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the ornate Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.

• Hue Citadel: 150,000 VND ($6.45), 2-3 hours
• Forbidden Purple City: 50,000 VND ($2.15), 1-2 hours
• Royal Meal: 300,000 VND ($12.90), 1-2 hours
• Dragon Boat Ride: 150,000 VND ($6.45), 1-2 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1 hour

Wednesday April 17: Nha Trang

Head to the coastal city of Nha Trang. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine beaches and taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit Vinpearl Land, a popular amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach as the sun sets.

• Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Vinpearl Land: 800,000 VND ($34.40), Half day
• Seafood Dinner: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Thursday April 18: Ho Chi Minh City

Explore the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local delicacies. As the evening sets in, stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

• Reunification Palace: 40,000 VND ($1.70), 1-2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND ($1.70), 1-2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Free, 2-3 hours

Friday April 19: Mekong Delta

Experience the unique beauty of the Mekong Delta. Take a boat ride along the intricate network of canals and witness the vibrant floating markets. Explore the lush orchards and enjoy tropical fruits in the morning. In the afternoon, visit a local village and learn about traditional handicrafts. End the day with a scenic sunset cruise along the river.

• Boat Ride: 300,000 VND ($12.90), Half day
• Floating Markets: Free, 1-2 hours
• Orchard Visit: 100,000 VND ($4.30), 1-2 hours
• Handicraft Village: Free, 1-2 hours
• Sunset Cruise: 200,000 VND ($8.60), 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Cat Ba Island in Halong Bay, known for its pristine beaches and hiking trails. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, which offer a glimpse into the underground network used during the Vietnam War. Families can also enjoy the VinWonders Nha Trang, an exciting amusement park with various rides and entertainment options.