7-Day Family Friendly Trip to Vietnam on a Budget

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City

Welcome to Vietnam! Start your trip by exploring the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh. In the morning, visit the War Remnants Museum to learn about the country's history. Have a delicious local lunch at Ben Thanh Market. In the afternoon, take a walk around the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. In the evening, experience the bustling nightlife at Bui Vien Street.

• War Remnants Museum: Estimated Cost - 50,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated Cost - 100,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Bui Vien Street: Estimated Cost - Variable, Estimated Time Spent - Evening activity

Saturday, December 2: Exploring Mekong Delta

Embark on a day trip to the picturesque Mekong Delta region. In the morning, take a boat tour in My Tho to visit local islands and sample fresh fruits. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch in one of the riverside restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the floating markets and witness the local lifestyle. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the evening.

• Mekong Delta Boat Tour: Estimated Cost - 500,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - Full day

Sunday, December 3: Discovering Hanoi

Fly to Hanoi and explore the capital city. In the morning, visit the iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple. Enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the historical Hoa Lo Prison and the Temple of Literature. In the evening, attend a traditional Water Puppet Show.

• Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Hoa Lo Prison: Estimated Cost - 30,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Temple of Literature: Estimated Cost - 30,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Estimated Cost - 100,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Monday, December 4: Ha Long Bay Cruise

Embark on a memorable cruise to the stunning Ha Long Bay. Enjoy the breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters. Explore the hidden caves and coves by kayak or bamboo boat. Indulge in a scrumptious seafood lunch on board. Return to Hanoi in the evening.

• Ha Long Bay Cruise: Estimated Cost - 1,500,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - Full day

Tuesday, December 5: Ancient Town of Hoi An

Take a flight to the charming town of Hoi An. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town with its well-preserved buildings. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a local riverside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and wander through the colorful lantern-filled streets. Experience the evening atmosphere at the night market.

• Ancient Town of Hoi An: Estimated Cost - 120,000 VND (entrance ticket), Estimated Time Spent - 4-6 hours
• Japanese Covered Bridge: Free, Estimated Time Spent - 30 minutes
• Night Market: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Evening activity

Wednesday, December 6: Hoi An Countryside Bike Tour

Explore the picturesque countryside of Hoi An on a bike tour. In the morning, cycle through rural villages, rice fields, and coconut groves. Stop by local farms and learn about traditional farming techniques. Have a delicious lunch at a local farm. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River and visit the carpentry craft village.

• Hoi An Countryside Bike Tour: Estimated Cost - 300,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - Half day

Thursday, December 7: Relaxation Day in Nha Trang

Fly to Nha Trang, a coastal paradise. Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches, enjoying water sports, or exploring the underwater world through snorkeling or diving. Visit the Po Nagar Cham Towers for a glimpse into the region's history and culture. In the evening, indulge in a seafood feast.

• Nha Trang Beach: Free, Estimated Time Spent - Full day
• Po Nagar Cham Towers: Estimated Cost - 22,000 VND, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Seafood Dinner: Estimated Cost - Variable, Estimated Time Spent - Evening activity

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Vietnam with your family, don't miss the charming town of Dalat, known for its pleasant climate and beautiful landscapes. Take a cable car ride to Truc Lam Pagoda for panoramic views, visit the Dalat Flower Park, and enjoy a picnic by the scenic Xuan Huong Lake. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or exploring the stunning Pongour Waterfall. Your family will surely have a memorable time in this hidden gem of Vietnam.

For more information on hotel and flight prices in Vietnam, visit Kayak.com.