Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Friday, December 15: Hanoi

Start your trip in the charming city of Hanoi. In the morning, visit the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university, for a glimpse into the country's rich history. Afterward, explore the Old Quarter, known for its narrow streets and bustling market. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form.

• Temple of Literature: Estimated cost - 50,000 VND (~$2) per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Old Quarter: Free to explore, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost - 100,000 VND (~$4) per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, December 16: Halong Bay

Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site, Halong Bay. Spend the morning cruising through the limestone karsts and emerald waters, and admire the stunning scenery. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board and explore hidden caves. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

• Halong Bay Day Trip: Estimated cost - 1,500,000 VND (~$65) per person, Estimated time spent - 10-12 hours

Sunday, December 17: Hoi An

Travel to the charming ancient town of Hoi An. In the morning, take a leisurely bike ride through the countryside and visit Tra Que Vegetable Village. Learn about local farming practices and enjoy a cooking class. In the evening, stroll through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

• Tra Que Vegetable Village: Estimated cost - 200,000 VND (~$8) per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cooking Class: Estimated cost - 500,000 VND (~$22) per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Exploring Hoi An: Free to explore, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours

Monday, December 18: Hue

Head to the imperial city of Hue. Start your day with a visit to the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the royal palaces and learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River to visit the Thien Mu Pagoda and the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang.

• Imperial Citadel: Estimated cost - 150,000 VND (~$6) per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Boat Trip on Perfume River: Estimated cost - 200,000 VND (~$8) per person, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Free to visit, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang: Estimated cost - 100,000 VND (~$4) per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 19: Nha Trang

Travel to the coastal city of Nha Trang. Spend the morning at Vinpearl Land, a popular amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park. Afterward, relax on the stunning Nha Trang Beach and enjoy water activities. In the evening, explore the lively night market and indulge in fresh seafood.

• Vinpearl Land: Estimated cost - 800,000 VND (~$35) per person, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Nha Trang Beach: Free to visit, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Night Market: Free to explore, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 20: Ho Chi Minh City

Fly to vibrant Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Start your day by visiting the historic Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's tumultuous past. In the afternoon, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market for shopping and street food. End your day with a relaxing cyclo ride through the city streets.

• Reunification Palace: Estimated cost - 40,000 VND (~$2) per person, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - 40,000 VND (~$2) per person, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Free to visit, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cyclo Ride: Estimated cost - 200,000 VND (~$8) per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, December 21: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Cruise along the Mekong River and explore the lush countryside. Visit local villages, experience traditional activities, and savor fresh tropical fruits. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

• Mekong Delta Day Trip: Estimated cost - 1,000,000 VND (~$43) per person, Estimated time spent - 8-10 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the serene Cua Dai Beach in Hoi An, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful coastline. Another hidden gem is Bai Xep, a peaceful fishing village near Quy Nhon, where you can experience the local way of life and unwind on pristine beaches. Both locations are family-friendly and offer a quieter alternative to the popular tourist spots.

For a truly local experience, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. These underground tunnels played a significant role during the Vietnam War and offer a glimpse into the country's history. You can crawl through the tunnels, learn about guerrilla warfare, and gain insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.