7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Vietnam

Day 1: Thursday, January 25, 2024 - Arrival in Vietnam

Welcome to Vietnam! After arriving in Ahmedabad, catch a cheap flight to your first destination in Vietnam. Check out kayak.com to find affordable hotel options for your stay.

Day 2: Friday, January 26, 2024 - Exploring Hanoi

In the morning, visit the famous Hoan Kiem Lake and enjoy a leisurely stroll around its scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the historic Old Quarter with its vibrant markets and traditional architecture. In the evening, catch a traditional water puppet show to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand.

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Old Quarter: Estimated cost - Free (shopping and food expenses vary), Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Water Puppet Show: Estimated cost - $5 per person, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Day 3: Saturday, January 27, 2024 - Halong Bay Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking overnight cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Enjoy activities such as kayaking, cave exploration, and a delicious seafood dinner on board.

• Halong Bay Cruise: Estimated cost - $150 per person (includes accommodation, meals, and activities), Estimated time spent - 24 hours

Day 4: Sunday, January 28, 2024 - Hoi An Discovery

Fly from Hanoi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town with well-preserved architecture. In the morning, take a walking tour through the historic streets and visit landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Old House. Enjoy an afternoon cooking class to learn traditional Vietnamese recipes.

• Walking Tour in Hoi An: Estimated cost - $10 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Cooking Class: Estimated cost - $30 per person, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Day 5: Monday, January 29, 2024 - Discovering Ho Chi Minh City

Travel to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) and visit the iconic landmarks that reflect the city's rich history. Start your day by exploring the historic Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. In the evening, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market for shopping and local street food.

• Reunification Palace: Estimated cost - $2 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• War Remnants Museum: Estimated cost - $1 per person, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Ben Thanh Market: Estimated cost - Free (shopping and food expenses vary), Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Day 6: Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - Mekong Delta Excursion

Embark on a full-day tour to the Mekong Delta, known as the "rice bowl" of Vietnam. Explore the lively floating markets, witness traditional village crafts, and enjoy a boat ride along the winding canals. Experience the unique beauty and culture of this enchanting region.

• Mekong Delta Tour: Estimated cost - $40 per person (includes transportation, boat ride, and lunch), Estimated time spent - 10 hours

Day 7: Wednesday, January 31, 2024 - Farewell and Departure

It's time to bid farewell to Vietnam. Spend your last day exploring the local markets, indulging in delicious Vietnamese cuisine, or simply relaxing before your flight back home. Make sure to check out any last-minute souvenirs before heading to the airport.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Head to the peaceful town of Hoi An and cycle through the beautiful countryside to get a glimpse of rural life in Vietnam. Visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village and participate in a farming experience, learning about traditional Vietnamese agriculture. Enjoy a homecooked meal with a local family for an authentic taste of Vietnamese hospitality.