7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Vietnam

Tuesday, December 26: Ho Chi Minh City

In the morning, explore the historic Independence Palace and learn about Vietnam's fascinating history. Afternoon visit to the War Remnants Museum to gain insights into the Vietnam War. In the evening, take a stroll through Ben Thanh Market for a taste of local street food and souvenirs.

• Independence Palace: Entrance fee: 50,000 VND ($2.50). Estimated time: 2 hours.
• War Remnants Museum: Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($2). Estimated time: 2 hours.
• Ben Thanh Market: No entrance fee. Estimated time: 2 hours.

Wednesday, December 27: Mekong Delta

Embark on a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta. Morning visit to the floating markets, where you can experience the vibrant local trading scene. Afternoon boat trip to smaller channels and enjoy the picturesque scenery. End the day with a homestay experience and indulge in delicious local cuisine.

• Mekong Delta Tour: Price varies depending on the tour package. Estimated time: 8-10 hours.

Thursday, December 28: Hoi An

Spend the morning exploring the charming ancient town of Hoi An. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and try your hand at lantern-making. In the afternoon, relax at the An Bang Beach and enjoy the beautiful coastline. Wrap up the day with a leisurely boat ride along the Thu Bon River.

• Japanese Covered Bridge: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND ($5). Estimated time: 1 hour.
• Hoi An Old Town: Entrance fee: 120,000 VND ($5). Estimated time: 2-3 hours.
• An Bang Beach: No entrance fee. Estimated time: 2-3 hours.
• Thu Bon River Boat Ride: Price varies depending on service provider. Estimated time: 1 hour.

Friday, December 29: Hue

Visit the Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Morning explore the majestic Imperial Citadel, followed by a visit to the Imperial Tombs. Afternoon boat trip along the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner on a dragon boat while admiring the sunset.

• Imperial Citadel: Entrance fee: 150,000 VND ($6.50). Estimated time: 2-3 hours.
• Imperial Tombs: Entrance fee: 150,000-200,000 VND ($6.50-$8.50) per tomb. Estimated time: 1-2 hours per tomb.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: No entrance fee. Estimated time: 1 hour.
• Sunset Dinner Cruise: Price varies depending on service provider. Estimated time: 3 hours.

Saturday, December 30: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a memorable cruise in Ha Long Bay, a spectacular natural wonder. Morning enjoy the breathtaking scenery and explore the stunning limestone caves. Afternoon relax on the sundeck and try kayaking. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner onboard and stargaze at night.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Price varies depending on the cruise package. Estimated time: 24 hours.

Sunday, December 31: Hanoi

Spend the morning discovering the rich heritage of Hanoi. Visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, explore the historic Old Quarter, and marvel at the Temple of Literature. In the afternoon, take a cyclo (rickshaw) ride through the bustling streets and enjoy a traditional water puppet show in the evening.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: No entrance fee. Estimated time: 1-2 hours.
• Old Quarter: No entrance fee. Estimated time: 2-3 hours.
• Temple of Literature: Entrance fee: 30,000 VND ($1.50). Estimated time: 1-2 hours.
• Water Puppet Show: Ticket price: 100,000-200,000 VND ($4.50-$9). Estimated time: 1 hour.

Monday, January 1: Nha Trang

Relax and soak up the sun at the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang. Morning visit to Vinpearl Land for family-friendly amusement park rides and attractions. Afternoon unwind on the sandy beaches and try some water sports activities. Indulge in fresh seafood for dinner.

• Vinpearl Land: Entrance fee: 800,000 VND ($35 approximately). Estimated time: 4-6 hours.
• Nha Trang Beaches: No entrance fee. Estimated time: Flexible.
• Water Sports Activities: Prices vary depending on the activity. Estimated time: Flexible.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Vietnam, make sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City to learn about Vietnam's wartime history in an underground network of tunnels. Explore the peaceful countryside around Hoi An by bicycle, visiting local villages and rice fields. Take a day trip to the rural Mai Chau valley and experience the authentic culture of ethnic minority groups. These offbeat attractions offer a unique and enriching experience for the whole family.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.