7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Vietnam

Saturday, June 1: Hanoi

Begin your Vietnam adventure in the bustling city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter with its narrow streets and vibrant markets. Visit Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can take a leisurely stroll or rent a paddleboat. In the afternoon, delve into Vietnamese culture with a visit to the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. End the day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique form of Vietnamese entertainment.

• Old Quarter: Experience the local street life and shop for souvenirs. Cost: VND 0-500,000. Time: 3-4 hours.
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Enjoy a peaceful walk or rent a paddleboat. Cost: VND 0-50,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Temple of Literature: Discover Vietnam's first national university. Cost: VND 30,000-50,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Pay respects to Vietnam's iconic leader. Cost: VND 25,000-50,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Water Puppet Show: Be entertained by this traditional art form. Cost: VND 100,000-200,000. Time: 1 hour.

Sunday, June 2: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a scenic cruise to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning limestone karsts. Spend the day exploring the bay, visiting caves, kayaking, and swimming in the emerald waters. Marvel at the breathtaking sunset over the bay and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner onboard.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Experience the beauty of the karst formations. Cost: VND 1,500,000-3,000,000. Time: Full day.

Monday, June 3: Hoi An

Fly to Hoi An, a charming ancient town renowned for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-filled streets. In the morning, take a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visiting historic sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation. Spend the afternoon exploring local markets, learning to make lanterns, and enjoying the picturesque riverside views.

• Hoi An Old Town: Immerse yourself in history and culture. Cost: VND 120,000-200,000. Time: 3-4 hours.
• Local Markets: Shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Cost: VND 0-300,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Lantern Making Workshop: Get creative and make your own lantern. Cost: VND 50,000-150,000. Time: 1-2 hours.

Tuesday, June 4: Hue

Take a day trip to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Explore the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the magnificent Hue Citadel and the Forbidden Purple City. In the afternoon, cruise along the Perfume River to visit the picturesque Thien Mu Pagoda and explore the royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Imperial City: Discover the grandeur of the Nguyen emperors. Cost: VND 150,000-200,000. Time: 3-4 hours.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Admire the iconic seven-story pagoda. Cost: VND 20,000-50,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Royal Tombs: Explore the tomb complexes of the Nguyen Dynasty. Cost: VND 100,000-150,000. Time: 2-3 hours.

Wednesday, June 5: Nha Trang

Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal paradise famous for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, swimming, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit Vinpearl Land, a family-friendly amusement park offering thrilling rides, water slides, and an underwater world aquarium.

• Nha Trang Beach: Soak up the sun and enjoy water activities. Cost: VND 0-200,000. Time: Half day.
• Vinpearl Land: Have fun at the amusement park and explore the aquarium. Cost: VND 600,000-1,000,000. Time: Half day.

Thursday, June 6: Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, the dynamic metropolis of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and the nearby War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. Explore the vibrant streets of District 1, including Dong Khoi Street and Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for local handicrafts and sample delicious street food. Take a relaxing cyclo ride in the evening to admire the city's colonial architecture.

• Reunification Palace: Step into the past at this historic landmark. Cost: VND 30,000-40,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• War Remnants Museum: Gain insights into the Vietnam War. Cost: VND 15,000-30,000. Time: 1-2 hours.
• Ben Thanh Market: Shop for souvenirs and try Vietnamese street food. Cost: VND 0-500,000. Time: 2-3 hours.
• Cyclo Ride: Enjoy a leisurely tour of the city. Cost: VND 100,000-200,000. Time: 1-2 hours.

Friday, June 7: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam's "rice bowl." Explore the floating markets, lush fruit orchards, and charming villages along the river. Take a boat ride along the canals, visit local workshops, and savor traditional Vietnamese dishes. Immerse yourself in the rural countryside and witness the daily life of the locals.

• Mekong Delta Tour: Discover the beauty of the delta region. Cost: VND 500,000-1,000,000. Time: Full day.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the underground network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War and learn about the country's history. Another great option is the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to stunning caves and lush rainforests. Take a boat ride inside Phong Nha Cave or go on an adventurous trek through Paradise Cave.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.