Vietnam Family Holiday Itinerary: Explore Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in 12 Days

Day 1: Arrival and Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen

Start your day with authentic Vietnamese pho at this popular local spot famous for its rich broth and fresh ingredients.
VND60,000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on a small island, a serene historical site.
VND30,000, 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous Hanoi dish Bun Cha, grilled pork with noodles, made famous internationally by President Obama’s visit.
VND80,000, 1h0m

1:00pm

Explore Old Quarter on Foot

Wander through the bustling Old Quarter’s narrow streets filled with shops, street vendors, and cafes; an excellent way to experience city life.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

Vietnam’s first national university, the Temple of Literature is a beautiful historical and cultural site with tranquil gardens.
VND30,000, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Cha Ca Thang Long

Enjoy the iconic Hanoi dish Cha Ca, featuring turmeric-marinated fish served with fresh herbs and noodles.
VND150,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Hanoi to Ha Long Bay Cruise

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam on December 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day-long cruise ahead.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Ha Long Bay

Enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, perfect for family sightseeing.
Included in tour, 3h30m

11:30am

Board Ha Long Bay Cruise

Embark on a luxury family-friendly cruise to explore the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Includes onboard lunch.
USD150 per person, 4h0m

3:30pm

Kayaking and Cave Exploration

Enjoy kayaking around the bay’s limestone caves or visit famous caves such as Thien Cung Cave.
Included in cruise, 2h0m

6:00pm

Overnight on Cruise

Relax on the cruise with dinner under the stars, perfect for a family bonding experience.
Included in cruise, Overnight
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Day 3: Return to Hanoi and Local Celebration

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast on Cruise

Enjoy breakfast with scenic views on the cruise before disembarking.
Included in cruise, 1h0m

8:30am

Cruise More and Return to Port

Continue cruising through the bay, visiting further spots before heading back to the harbor.
Included in cruise, 3h0m

12:00pm

Travel Back to Hanoi

Enjoy the drive back to Hanoi and check into your hotel for a rest.
Included in tour, 3h30m

3:30pm

Visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore this engaging museum showcasing the cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups; great for kids and adults.
VND40,000, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant

Experience traditional Vietnamese home-style dishes in a cozy setting.
VND120,000, 1h30m

8:00pm

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Hoan Kiem Lake

Join local festivities and fireworks around the lake to welcome the New Year with family-friendly ambience.
Free, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Fly to Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on January 1, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading to the airport.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Flight Hanoi to Da Nang, then Transfer to Hoi An

Take a 1.5-hour flight to Da Nang and a short 45-minute drive to Hoi An, the charming ancient town.
Flight approx USD70 per person, 3h0m total

12:30pm

Lunch at Cargo Club Hoi An

Enjoy Western and Vietnamese dishes in a riverside restaurant popular with families.
VND150,000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Walk through the UNESCO World Heritage site featuring lantern-lit streets, historic houses, and riverside views. Open daily till late.
VND120,000 for entry ticket per adult; kids under 14 free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Morning Glory

Savor traditional central Vietnamese cuisine in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
VND180,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Relax & Discovery in Hoi An

Hoi An, Vietnam on January 2, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin with a fresh and healthy breakfast at your accommodation.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:30am

Basket Boat & Coconut Forest Tour

Take a fun, family-friendly basket boat tour on the river and explore the lush coconut palms of Cam Thanh village.
USD25 per person, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Bale Well

Enjoy local specialties, including grilled pork and fresh herbs, in a family-style setting.
VND100,000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Free Time / Beach Relaxation

Spend a relaxing afternoon at An Bang Beach, ideal for families and swimming.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mango Room

Enjoy contemporary Vietnamese fusion dishes in a cozy setting perfect for families.
VND200,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Hoi An to Hue

Hue, Vietnam on January 3, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before the transfer to Hue.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Hue via Hai Van Pass

Take the scenic 3-hour drive along the Hai Van Pass with stunning coastal views.
Included in transfer, 3h0m

12:00pm

Check-in & Lunch at Ancient Hue

Taste royal cuisine dishes in a restaurant offering intimate family dining in Hue.
VND170,000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Imperial City (The Citadel)

Explore the historic walled city and imperial palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage site open till 5:30pm.
VND150,000, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Perfume River

Enjoy a relaxing family stroll along the river at sunset.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Moon River Restaurant

Dine by the river with authentic Hue cuisine in a family-friendly ambiance.
VND180,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Hue History & Culture

Hue, Vietnam on January 4, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Begin the day with a relaxed hotel breakfast.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Thien Mu Pagoda

Explore the iconic riverside pagoda noted for its seven-storied beauty and spiritual significance.
VND20,000, 1h0m

10:30am

Tour Tombs of Emperors (Khai Dinh and Minh Mang)

Visit these two impressive royal tomb complexes showcasing imperial architecture and gardens.
VND80,000 per tomb, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Hanh Restaurant

Enjoy local Hue specialties like Bun Bo Hue, famous beef noodle soup.
VND120,000, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Hotel or Explore Local Markets

Spend the afternoon resting or browsing Dong Ba Market for souvenirs and street snacks.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Ancient Hue Restaurant

Another chance to enjoy royal-style dining with family-friendly atmosphere and varied menu.
VND180,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on January 5, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Prepare for travel day with a good breakfast.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Flight from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City

A 1.5-hour flight to Vietnam’s bustling southern city.
USD60 per person, 1h30m

11:30am

Check-in & Lunch at Propaganda Bistro

Try modern Vietnamese cuisine with artistic flair, suitable for families.
VND160,000, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit War Remnants Museum

Educational museum depicting Vietnam War history, open 7:30am to 6:00pm.
VND40,000, 2h0m

4:00pm

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Browse a lively market for souvenirs, snacks, and local crafts; great for budget shopping.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Hoa Tuc

Upscale Vietnamese dining in a former French colonial building, family-friendly environment.
VND250,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Cu Chi Tunnels and City Tour

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on January 6, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for day trip.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Half-day tour exploring the historic underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War, very educational for the family.
USD23 per person, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Pho 2000

Famous restaurant where President Bill Clinton once dined; enjoy traditional pho noodles.
VND90,000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

Explore iconic French colonial architecture and take great family photos.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Tao Dan Park

Family-friendly green space perfect for unwinding or a light stroll.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Secret Garden

Rooftop restaurant serving authentic Vietnamese dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
VND200,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Mekong Delta Day Trip

Mekong Delta, Vietnam on January 7, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast for full-day Mekong Delta adventure.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

8:00am

Depart for Mekong Delta Tour

Visit floating markets, fruit orchards, and experience boat rides through the delta, great for children and adults alike.
USD50 per person, 8h0m

4:00pm

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

Travel back to city and rest.
Included in tour, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cuc Gach Quan

Delight in traditional Vietnamese dishes served in a charming rustic setting.
VND180,000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Leisure and Shopping Day

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on January 8, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Saigon Central Market and Vincom Center

Shop for local goods and enjoy modern shopping malls for souvenirs and gifts.
Free entry, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pho Hoa

Classic spot for delicious pho, a must-try any time in Vietnam.
VND80,000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Hotel or Optional Spa

Take a rest or enjoy a family-friendly spa treatment at your hotel.
Varies, 3h0m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at The Deck Saigon

Book a riverside dinner offering international and Vietnamese dishes in an elegant family-friendly environment.
VND300,000, 2h0m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Departure Day

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on January 9, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Vietnam.
Included in Hotel, 1h0m

9:00am

Airport Transfer

Depart hotel and transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your flight home.
Included in transfer, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability