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 55 travelers

7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Vietnam & Cambodia

Tuesday, December 19: Hanoi, Vietnam

Begin your adventure in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Start the morning with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and explore the beautiful gardens surrounding it. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Ngoc Son Temple. In the evening, experience the bustling atmosphere of the Old Quarter and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Halong Bay, Vietnam

Embark on a memorable cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters. Spend the morning exploring the bay, kayaking, or swimming. Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board the cruise ship and take in the stunning views. In the afternoon, visit one of the limestone caves and witness a magnificent sunset over the bay.

  • Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - $100-$200 per person, Time spent - Full day
  • Limestone Cave Visit: Estimated cost - Free/Included in cruise package, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Travel to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and immerse yourself in the wonders of Angkor Wat. Start the morning exploring the vast temple complex and learning about the rich history of the Khmer Empire. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Angkor Thom, which includes the famous Bayon Temple. End the day with a visit to the enchanting Ta Prohm temple, known for its picturesque ruins intertwined with tree roots.

  • Angkor Wat: Estimated cost - $37 per person, Time spent - 4-6 hours
  • Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple: Estimated cost - Included in Angkor Wat ticket, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ta Prohm Temple: Estimated cost - Included in Angkor Wat ticket, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, December 22: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Continue your exploration of Siem Reap by visiting the lesser-known temples. Start the morning with a visit to Banteay Srei, known for its intricate carvings. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating Preah Khan temple, which offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere. End the day with a relaxing boat ride along the Tonle Sap Lake, observing floating villages and enjoying the sunset.

  • Banteay Srei Temple: Estimated cost - $37 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Preah Khan Temple: Estimated cost - Included in Angkor Wat ticket, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tonle Sap Lake Boat Ride: Estimated cost - $10-$20 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Hoi An, Vietnam

Fly back to Vietnam and head to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant lantern-filled streets. Start the morning with a walking tour of the Old Town, admiring the Japanese Covered Bridge and Chinese Assembly Halls. In the afternoon, join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes. End the day with a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River.

  • Walking Tour of Hoi An Old Town: Estimated cost - $5-$10 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Cooking Class: Estimated cost - $30-$50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Boat Ride on Thu Bon River: Estimated cost - $5-$10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, and discover the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling metropolis. Start the morning with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace and the nearby War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's past. In the afternoon, explore the colorful streets of the Ben Thanh Market and indulge in delicious street food. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

  • Reunification Palace: Estimated cost - $1-$2 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - $1-$2 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost - $5-$10 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
Monday, December 25: Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a vibrant region known for its lush rice paddies and winding waterways. Start the morning with a boat ride along the Mekong River, visiting local villages and experiencing the delta's unique way of life. Enjoy a delicious lunch with regional specialties. In the afternoon, explore the floating markets and try your hand at rowing a traditional sampan boat.

  • Mekong Delta Boat Tour: Estimated cost - $20-$40 per person, Time spent - Full day
  • Floating Market Visit: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Sampan Boat Experience: Estimated cost - $5-$10 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City, where you can crawl through the underground network used during the Vietnam War. In Cambodia, explore the less crowded Beng Mealea temple, which offers a sense of adventure as you navigate through its partially collapsed structures. Additionally, consider visiting the Phare Circus in Siem Reap, a captivating performance showcasing traditional Cambodian arts.

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

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