Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

A Week in Vietnam: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Monday, November 6: Hanoi

Start your Vietnam adventure in the capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can take a leisurely walk, feed the turtles, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, explore the Old Quarter, a bustling area filled with narrow streets, traditional shops, and delicious street food stalls. In the evening, attend a water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form that will captivate the whole family.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: $5-10 per person, 1 hour
Tuesday, November 7: Halong Bay

Embark on a memorable cruise on the stunning Halong Bay. In the morning, board a traditional junk boat and sail through the limestone karsts, enjoying the breathtaking views. Spend the afternoon kayaking or swimming in the emerald waters, and visit the picturesque caves. As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious seafood dinner on the boat, surrounded by the enchanting scenery.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: $100-200 per person, full day
Wednesday, November 8: Hoi An

Head south to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved historic buildings and unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River, where you can witness the traditional fishing techniques and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In the evening, join a lantern-making workshop and be part of the colorful lantern festival.

  • Ancient Town: $5-10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Boat Trip on Thu Bon River: $10-15 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Lantern-Making Workshop: $5-10 per person, 1 hour
Thursday, November 9: Hue

Continue your journey to the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, visit the majestic Imperial City, home to the Nguyen emperors. Explore the palaces, temples, and gardens within the fortress walls. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the elaborate tombs of the emperors. In the evening, try the local specialty, bun bo Hue, a delicious beef noodle soup.

  • Imperial City: $5-10 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Boat Ride on Perfume River: $10-15 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Bun Bo Hue: $3-5 per bowl, 1 hour
Friday, November 10: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Learn about the history and resilience of the Vietnamese people. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample delicious local street food. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner while watching a cultural show.

  • Cu Chi Tunnels: $10-15 per person, 3-4 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Traditional Dinner and Cultural Show: $20-30 per person, 2-3 hours
Saturday, November 11: Mekong Delta

Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as Vietnam's "rice basket." In the morning, explore the floating markets, where local vendors sell their goods from boats. Cruise along the canals, visit fruit orchards, and enjoy a traditional folk music performance. In the afternoon, try your hand at making coconut candy and rowing a sampan boat. End the day with a relaxing bike ride through the countryside.

  • Floating Markets: $10-15 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Canal Cruise and Fruit Orchards: $15-20 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Coconut Candy Making and Sampan Boat: $10-15 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Bike Ride: $5-10 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, head to the beautiful town of Tam Coc, often referred to as the "Halong Bay on land." Take a boat ride through the scenic karst landscape and explore the caves. Another hidden gem is the Ba Na Hills near Da Nang, where you can ride the iconic Golden Bridge and enjoy stunning panoramic views. Locals also love the peaceful island of Phu Quoc, with its pristine beaches and vibrant night market.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak to find the best prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version