Seven Days in Vietnam: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

1. Day 1: Hanoi Old Quarter
   30-minute drive (15 km) from Noi Bai International Airport

   Discover the rich history of Vietnam by walking around the streets of Hanoi Old Quarter. You’ll find traditional architecture, street food, and unique souvenirs. Don't miss the famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.

2. Day 2: Ha Long Bay
   3.5-hour drive (170 km) from Hanoi Old Quarter

   This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its beautiful limestone islands and emerald waters. You can go kayaking, explore the caves, and take part in a traditional cooking class. Book a boat tour in advance to get the most out of the experience.

3. Day 3: Imperial City of Hue
   13-hour overnight train ride (690 km) from Ha Long Bay

   Once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, the Imperial City of Hue is a walled fortress and palace. It contains temples, gardens, and historic buildings. You’ll need several hours to explore the entire complex, so plan accordingly.

4. Day 4: Hoi An Ancient Town
   2-hour drive (110 km) from the Imperial City of Hue

   Hoi An Ancient Town is a perfect mix of culture, history, and modernity. It is a well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to the 19th century. You can try local food, shop for souvenirs, and see traditional architecture.

5. Day 5: My Son Sanctuary
   50-minute drive (40 km) from Hoi An Ancient Town

   My Son Sanctuary is a group of abandoned and partially ruined Hindu temples built between the 4th and 14th centuries. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a great example of the Champa Kingdom architecture.

6. Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
   1-hour flight (1100 km) from Da Nang Airport

   Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant, bustling metropolis in Southern Vietnam. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Ben Thanh Market. Don’t miss the street food scene for a delicious culinary experience.

7. Day 7: Mekong Delta
   2-hour drive (120 km) from Ho Chi Minh City

   The Mekong Delta is a vast maze of rivers, swamps, and islands. Take a boat tour to see the floating markets, rice paddies, and local villages. You can also try some exotic fruits and seafood.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour (2-3 hours, free)
• Ha Long Bay Boat Tour (4-6 hours, $50-$100 per person)
• Imperial City of Hue Admission Fee (2-3 hours, $10 per person)
• Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance Fee (2-3 hours, $6 per person)
• My Son Sanctuary Entrance Fee (2-3 hours, $8 per person)
• Ho Chi Minh City War Remnants Museum Admission Fee (2-3 hours, $5 per person)
• Mekong Delta Boat Tour (4-6 hours, $20-$50 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: $99-$219 per person

Recommendations

If you have extra time in Hanoi, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where the founding father of modern Vietnam is laid to rest. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is also a great place to learn about the diverse ethnic groups in Vietnam.

For a unique experience in Hoi An, take a lantern-making class and release your own lanterns into the Thu Bon River at night. You can also try a food tour by motorbike to explore the local cuisine.

In Ho Chi Minh City, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the underground network used during the Vietnam War. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Cao Dai Temple and the historical city of Tay Ninh to learn about the Cao Dai religion.