Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Vietnam

Saturday, December 23: Hanoi

In the morning, start your trip in Hanoi by visiting the Hoan Kiem Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city where you can take a leisurely walk and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which offers fascinating insights into the country's diverse ethnic groups. In the evening, explore the bustling Old Quarter and try local street food at the night market.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Entrance is free, estimated time: 2 hours
• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Entrance fee - adults: 40,000 VND ($1.75), children: 10,000 VND ($0.44), estimated time: 3 hours
• Old Quarter Night Market: Estimated cost for food: 200,000 VND ($8.75), estimated time: 2 hours

Sunday, December 24: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay. Start your morning with a cruise through the limestone karsts and emerald waters, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery. Enjoy a seafood lunch on board and explore the Thien Cung Cave with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. In the evening, return to Hanoi and visit the Hanoi Opera House for a cultural performance.

• Ha Long Bay day trip: Cost for a day tour starts at $50 per person, estimated time: full day
• Hanoi Opera House: Ticket prices vary depending on the performance, estimated time: 2 hours

Monday, December 25: Hoi An

Fly to Hoi An, a charming ancient town known for its well-preserved architecture and lantern-lit streets. Spend the morning exploring the Ancient Town and visit the Assembly Halls, Japanese Covered Bridge, and the Central Market. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River, where you can learn about traditional fishing techniques. End the day with a lantern-making workshop and release your handmade lanterns onto the river.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Entrance fee - adults: 120,000 VND ($5.25), children: 60,000 VND ($2.62), estimated time: 3 hours
• Boat trip on Thu Bon River: Cost for boat tour starts at 150,000 VND ($6.56), estimated time: 2 hours
• Lantern-making workshop: Workshop prices vary, estimated time: 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Ho Chi Minh City

Take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis of Vietnam. Start your day by exploring the historic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. In the afternoon, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the Vietnam War. End the day by strolling along Nguyen Hue Walking Street and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

• Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Entrance is free, estimated time: 1 hour
• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee - adults: 40,000 VND ($1.75), children: 10,000 VND ($0.44), estimated time: 2 hours
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Estimated cost for food: 200,000 VND ($8.75), estimated time: 2 hours

Wednesday, December 27: Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, a maze of rivers, islands, and floating markets. Explore Cai Be Floating Market and witness the bustling trade of fruits and vegetables. Visit local cottage industries and learn about traditional coconut candy and rice paper production. Enjoy a boat ride along the canals and have lunch with a local family. In the late afternoon, return to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Mekong Delta day trip: Cost for a day tour starts at $30 per person, estimated time: full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For some off the beaten path experiences and places loved by locals, consider visiting the following:

• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: Explore the stunning caves and limestone formations in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Ba Na Hills: Enjoy panoramic views from the Golden Bridge and explore the French village-themed amusement park.
• Tam Coc: Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River and marvel at the limestone karsts in this scenic area.

Make sure to check hotel and flight prices here before your trip.