Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Thursday, November 2: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, start your trip by visiting the War Remnants Museum, where you can learn about the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local products. In the evening, take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoy the city's lively nightlife.

• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - 50,000 VND ($2.17), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - Free to explore, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Evening

Friday, November 3: Cu Chi Tunnels

Embark on a morning tour to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. In the afternoon, visit the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of animal species. Enjoy a relaxing evening in the city, perhaps exploring the local street food scene.

• Cu Chi Tunnels: Estimated cost - 110,000 VND ($4.78) for tour, Time spent - Half-day
• Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost - 50,000 VND ($2.17), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Local Street Food: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Evening

Saturday, November 4: Hoi An

In the morning, explore the charming ancient town of Hoi An, known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-filled streets. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Hoi An Museum. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the countryside. Enjoy a family-friendly evening walking tour to see the lanterns illuminate the town.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Estimated cost - 120,000 VND ($5.21), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Hoi An Museum: Estimated cost - 120,000 VND ($5.21), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost - 150,000 VND ($6.51), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Evening Lantern Walking Tour: Estimated cost - 100,000 VND ($4.34), Time spent - Evening

Sunday, November 5: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a morning cruise excursion to the stunning Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking limestone islands. Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and exploring the magnificent caves. Spend the night on a traditional junk boat and witness a mesmerizing sunset over the bay.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - 1,500,000 VND ($65.12), Time spent - Full-day

Monday, November 6: Hanoi

In the morning, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby One Pillar Pagoda. Explore the historic Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and street markets. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's oldest university, and take a cyclo ride around Hoan Kiem Lake.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• One Pillar Pagoda: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
• Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Temple of Literature: Estimated cost - 30,000 VND ($1.30), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Cyclo Ride: Estimated cost - 150,000 VND ($6.51), Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, November 7: Ninh Binh

In the morning, take a boat ride in Trang An Grottoes, a scenic area known for its karst landscape and cave systems. Explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu and visit the Dinh and Le Temples. In the afternoon, go cycling through the picturesque countryside and enjoy the natural beauty of Tam Coc.

• Trang An boat ride: Estimated cost - 200,000 VND ($8.67), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hoa Lu Temples: Estimated cost - 20,000 VND ($0.87), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Cycling in Tam Coc: Estimated cost - 100,000 VND ($4.34), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, November 8: Phu Quoc Island

Spend a relaxing day on the beautiful Phu Quoc Island. Enjoy the pristine beaches, go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the vibrant marine life, and indulge in delicious seafood. Take in the sunset from Dinh Cau Night Market and savor the local cuisine.

• Beach Activities: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Full-day
• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Half-day
• Dinh Cau Night Market: Estimated cost - Free to explore, Time spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Vietnam, don't miss exploring the enchanting water puppet shows, a traditional art form unique to the country. Take your family to visit the Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station to see endangered wildlife up close and contribute to conservation efforts. Make sure to try the delicious Vietnamese street food, such as Banh Mi and Pho, which can be found at local food stalls throughout the cities.

For checking hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, you can visit Kayak.