5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Vietnam

Friday, November 3: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, explore the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history, then head to the Ben Thanh Market for shopping and sampling local street food. In the afternoon, take a cruise along the Saigon River to see the city from a different perspective. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater.

• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($1.75), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Saigon River Cruise: Cost: 200,000 VND ($8.70), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater: Ticket price: 200,000 VND ($8.70), Time spent: 1 hour

Saturday, November 4: Hanoi

Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the nearby Presidential Palace. Explore the beautiful Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first national university. In the afternoon, take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter's narrow streets and experience the vibrant local culture. End the day with a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Presidential Palace: Free entry, Time spent: 1 hour
• Temple of Literature: Entrance fee: 30,000 VND ($1.30), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Old Quarter Cyclo Ride: Cost: 100,000 VND ($4.35), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: Ticket price: 100,000 VND ($4.35), Time spent: 1 hour

Sunday, November 5: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a full-day cruise in Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning limestone karsts, visit floating fishing villages, and enjoy a seafood lunch on board. Take a kayak or bamboo boat to explore the hidden caves and tranquil lagoons. End the day with a breathtaking sunset view over the bay before returning to Hanoi.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost: 1,500,000 VND ($65), Time spent: Full day

Monday, November 6: Hoi An

Spend the morning exploring the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Take a stroll along the colorful streets lined with centuries-old buildings, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, and browse through the local markets. In the afternoon, learn how to make traditional lanterns at a lantern workshop. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the evening.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND ($5.20), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: 20,000 VND ($0.87), Time spent: 30 minutes
• Lantern Workshop: Cost: 100,000 VND ($4.35), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Cost: 150,000 VND ($6.50), Time spent: 1 hour

Tuesday, November 7: Nha Trang

Head to Nha Trang, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant underwater world. Spend the morning exploring the Vinpearl Land amusement park, which offers a variety of rides and entertainment for all ages. In the afternoon, visit the Hon Mun Marine Protected Area for snorkeling or diving to discover the colorful coral reefs. End the day by relaxing on the sandy shores of Nha Trang Beach.

• Vinpearl Land: Entrance fee: 700,000 VND ($30.45), Time spent: Half day
• Hon Mun Marine Protected Area: Snorkeling or diving cost: 300,000 VND ($13), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Cai Be Floating Market in the Mekong Delta. Explore the vibrant market on a traditional sampan boat and interact with local traders. Another hidden gem is the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can learn about Vietnam's war history and crawl through the underground tunnels. These off the beaten path attractions offer a glimpse into the local culture and history of Vietnam.

Check here for the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Vietnam.