7-Day Family-Friendly Vietnam Itinerary

Thursday, November 30: Ho Chi Minh City

Start your trip by exploring the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about Vietnam's history. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War. In the evening, enjoy a dinner cruise along the Saigon River.

• War Remnants Museum: Cost estimate: VND 40,000 ($1.75). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: Cost estimate: VND 110,000 ($4.80). Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Cost estimate: VND 600,000 ($26). Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, December 1: Hoi An

Head to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the Ancient Town with its well-preserved buildings and narrow streets. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Thu Bon River and visit the traditional craft villages. In the evening, experience the colorful lantern-filled streets and indulge in local cuisine.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Cost estimate: VND 120,000 ($5.25). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Thu Bon River Boat Trip: Cost estimate: VND 180,000 ($7.85). Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Local Cuisine Experience: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 2: Ha Long Bay

Embark on a cruise to the stunning Ha Long Bay. In the morning, sail through the limestone islands and visit floating villages. In the afternoon, explore the caves and go kayaking or swimming. Enjoy the mesmerizing sunset over the bay before returning to your cruise ship.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Cost estimate: VND 1,500,000 ($65). Time spent: Full day
• Kayaking or Swimming: Cost estimate: Free with cruise. Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Exploring Caves: Cost estimate: VND 80,000 ($3.50). Time spent: 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 3: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel, home to palaces and temples. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda. In the evening, indulge in Hue's famous royal cuisine.

• Hue Citadel: Cost estimate: VND 150,000 ($6.55). Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Perfume River Boat Trip: Cost estimate: VND 150,000 ($6.55). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Thien Mu Pagoda: Cost estimate: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, December 4: Hanoi

Visit the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. In the morning, explore the historic Old Quarter and visit the Hoan Kiem Lake. In the afternoon, tour the Temple of Literature, dedicated to Confucius. In the evening, enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

• Old Quarter: Cost estimate: Free. Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Hoan Kiem Lake: Cost estimate: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Cost estimate: VND 30,000 ($1.30). Time spent: 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Ninh Binh

Explore the picturesque landscapes of Ninh Binh. In the morning, take a boat trip through Trang An Grottoes and admire the limestone cliffs. In the afternoon, visit Tam Coc and experience a traditional sampan boat ride. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing bike ride in the countryside.

• Trang An Grottoes: Cost estimate: VND 200,000 ($8.75). Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Tam Coc Boat Ride: Cost estimate: VND 120,000 ($5.25). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bike Ride: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Mekong Delta

Experience the rich culture and lush landscapes of the Mekong Delta. In the morning, explore the bustling Cai Be Floating Market and interact with local vendors. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to the nearby islands and enjoy tropical fruits. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Vietnamese dinner.

• Cai Be Floating Market: Cost estimate: VND 40,000 ($1.75). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Boat Trip to Islands: Cost estimate: VND 80,000 ($3.50). Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Traditional Vietnamese Dinner: Cost estimate: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, visit the Vinpearl Land in Nha Trang, an amusement park with thrilling rides and a water park. Explore the lantern-lit Ancient Town of Hoi An at night, where you can participate in lantern-making workshops and release your lantern on the Thu Bon River. Don't miss the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall on the border of Vietnam and China, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to swim in the natural pools.

For a calming beach getaway, head to Phu Quoc Island and relax on its white sandy beaches. Explore the underground labyrinth of the Phong Nha Cave in the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy the rich biodiversity of the Cat Tien National Park, perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.