7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Vietnam in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Hanoi
    45 minutes (15.7 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

    Explore the Old Quarter's alleyways, temples, and street food stalls. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.

  2. Day 2: Halong Bay
    3.5 hours (173 km) from Hanoi

    Cruise among the towering limestone islets and enjoy activities like kayaking, swimming, and cave exploring.

  3. Day 3: Hue
    1 hour 20 minutes (620 km) from Halong Bay

    Visit the ancient Imperial City, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Dong Ba Market. Take a dragon boat ride along the Perfume River.

  4. Day 4: Hoi An
    2 hours 20 minutes (110 km) from Hue

    Explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town's charming alleyways, temples, and tailors. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Central Market.

  5. Day 5: My Son Sanctuary
    45 minutes (40 km) from Hoi An

    Discover the ruins of the Champa Kingdom's religious and cultural center.

  6. Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
    1 hour 15 minutes (890 km) from My Son Sanctuary

    Explore the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Stroll around the Ben Thanh Market and indulge in local street food.

  7. Day 7: Mekong Delta
    2 hours (120 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

    Cruise along the Mekong River and visit floating markets, orchards, and local cottage industries. Take a sampan ride through the mangroves.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (1 hour, free)
  • Halong Bay Cruise (4 hours, $100 per person)
  • Imperial City (2 hours, $10 per person)
  • Japanese Covered Bridge (30 minutes, free)
  • My Son Sanctuary (2 hours, $10 per person)
  • War Remnants Museum (2 hours, $5 per person)
  • Mekong Delta Cruise (6 hours, $50 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $375 per person
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