A Week in Vietnam: Family Friendly Itinerary

Monday, January 15: Hanoi

Start your trip by exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a peaceful stroll around its shores. Afterward, head to the Temple of Literature, a historical site dedicated to Confucianism and education. In the afternoon, visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology to learn about the diverse cultures in Vietnam. In the evening, experience the vibrant food scene at the Old Quarter, where you can try local delicacies at the night market.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance fee: 0. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Entrance fee: 30,000 VND (approx. $1.30). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Old Quarter Night Market: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 16: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Halong Bay. In the morning, hop on a cruise and sail through the limestone karsts, enjoying the stunning scenery. Explore hidden caves, kayak in calm waters, and indulge in a delicious seafood lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, relax on the sundeck and take in the panoramic views. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Starting from $40 per person. Estimated time spent: Full day

Wednesday, January 17: Hoi An

Travel to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, wander through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, admiring the well-preserved architecture and quaint streets. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge, visit the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation, and immerse yourself in the vibrant lantern-filled streets. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River and discover the traditional craft villages. Enjoy the evening strolling along the riverside and savoring local delicacies.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (approx. $6.50). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation: Entrance fee: 80,000 VND (approx. $3.50). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Starting from 100,000 VND (approx. $4.30) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Exploring Ancient Town and Sampling Local Cuisine: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, January 18: Hue

Take a day trip to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, admiring the grandeur of the former capital of Vietnam. Visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic Buddhist temple situated on the Perfume River. In the afternoon, cruise along the Perfume River and visit the royal tombs of Minh Mang and Khai Dinh. Return to Hoi An in the evening.

• Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (approx. $6.50). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Entrance fee: Free. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Perfume River Cruise and Royal Tombs: Starting from 200,000 VND (approx. $8.60) per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours

Friday, January 19: Nha Trang

Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant underwater world. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores of Nha Trang Beach and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. Visit the Vinpearl Land amusement park in the afternoon for a day of family fun, enjoying thrilling rides and water activities. In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife and indulge in fresh seafood.

• Nha Trang Beach: Entrance fee: Free. Estimated time spent: Half day
• Vinpearl Land: Entrance fee: Starting from 800,000 VND (approx. $34.50) per person. Estimated time spent: Full day
• Exploring Nha Trang's Nightlife and Dining: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: Evening

Saturday, January 20: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and gain insights into Vietnam's history. Explore the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War from a local perspective. In the afternoon, delve into the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, known for its local food and shopping. Enjoy the evening by taking a relaxing stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, filled with cafes and street performers.

• Reunification Palace: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND (approx. $1.70). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Entrance fee: Free. Estimated time spent: Evening

Sunday, January 21: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the enchanting Mekong Delta. In the morning, explore the floating markets, where locals trade their goods from boat to boat. Experience the unique lifestyle of the river communities and taste fresh tropical fruits. Enjoy a boat ride along the canals and visit a local village to learn traditional craft-making. In the afternoon, savor a delicious lunch with regional specialties. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

• Floating Markets: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride and Village Visits: Starting from 300,000 VND (approx. $13) per person. Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
• Tasting Regional Specialties: Estimated cost depends on purchases. Estimated time spent: Lunch

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly immersive experience in Vietnam, consider visiting the following hidden gems and local favorites:

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Explore the stunning caves and karst landscape in this UNESCO-listed national park.
• Mui Ne Sand Dunes: Experience the thrill of sandboarding and witness the captivating sunset over the dunes.
• Da Nang: Discover the beautiful beaches, visit the Marble Mountains, and enjoy the famous Dragon Bridge show.
• Sapa: Trek through the picturesque rice terraces and interact with local ethnic minority communities.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.