Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 62 travelers

A Week in Vietnam: Family-Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday, December 27: Hanoi

Get ready to start your adventure in Vietnam by exploring the charming capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the historic Hoan Kiem Lake and take a stroll through the picturesque Old Quarter, filled with narrow streets and bustling markets. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, a well-preserved temple complex dedicated to Confucius. Wrap up the day by watching a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.

  • Hoan Kiem Lake & Old Quarter: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Temple of Literature: 50,000 VND (approximately $2), 1-2 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: 100,000-200,000 VND (approximately $4-$8), 1 hour
Thursday, December 28: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the stunning Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. Start your morning with a scenic cruise around the bay, marveling at the breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board the boat. In the afternoon, explore the hidden caves and go kayaking or swimming in the bay. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

  • Halong Bay Day Trip: 800,000-1,500,000 VND (approximately $35-$65), 8-10 hours
Friday, December 29: Hoi An

Fly from Hanoi to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, take a leisurely bicycle ride around the town, exploring its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and riverside cafes. Enjoy a delicious local lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and explore the vibrant local markets. In the evening, experience the enchanting beauty of Hoi An's lantern-lit streets and dine at one of the riverside restaurants.

  • Hoi An Ancient Town: Free, 4-5 hours
  • Japanese Covered Bridge: 150,000 VND (approximately $6), 30 minutes
  • Hoi An Night Market: Free, 2 hours
Saturday, December 30: Hue

Take a scenic drive from Hoi An to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. In the morning, visit the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its palaces, temples, and gardens. Enjoy a traditional Hue cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Perfume River to visit the picturesque Thien Mu Pagoda and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang. Return to Hoi An in the evening.

  • Imperial City: 150,000 VND (approximately $6), 3-4 hours
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: Free, 1 hour
  • Royal Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang: 100,000 VND (approximately $4), 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 31: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly from Da Nang to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). In the morning, visit the historic Reunification Palace and learn about Vietnam's modern history. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market and shop for souvenirs. As the evening sets in, head to Nguyen Hue Walking Street to join the lively New Year's Eve celebrations and enjoy fireworks.

  • Reunification Palace: 40,000 VND (approximately $2), 2-3 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Free, 2-3 hours
  • New Year's Eve Celebration: Free, evening
Monday, January 1: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the scenic Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Cruise along the Mekong River and explore the floating markets, where locals sell their goods from boats. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in a local village. In the afternoon, visit a coconut candy factory and take a sampan boat ride through the narrow canals. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

  • Mekong Delta Day Trip: 800,000-1,200,000 VND (approximately $35-$50), 8-10 hours
Tuesday, January 2: Ho Chi Minh City

Spend your last day in Vietnam exploring more of Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along Dong Khoi Street and visit the stunning Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Central Post Office. End your trip by enjoying a sunset river cruise along the Saigon River.

  • War Remnants Museum: 40,000 VND (approximately $2), 2-3 hours
  • Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica & Central Post Office: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Sunset River Cruise: 200,000-500,000 VND (approximately $8-$20), 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Hanoi, make sure to visit the quirky Train Street, where trains pass through a narrow residential street, providing a unique sight. In Hoi An, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River to witness the peaceful countryside and beautiful landscapes. Don't miss the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, an underground network used during the Vietnam War, offering a fascinating historical experience.

For hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, check out Kayak.

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