14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure in Vietnam: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 30, 2025

9:30am

Breakfast at Kafeville

Enjoy a family-friendly breakfast with a variety of smoothies and pancakes, perfect for kids and adults alike. Open from 7:00am to 3:00pm.

VND150000, 1h

10:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

Stroll around this beautiful lake in central Hanoi and explore the temple on the serene island, a calm start for kids to get familiar with Vietnam’s culture. Open daily from 6:00am to 9:00pm.

VND30000, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Enjoy the iconic Northern Vietnamese dish, Bun Cha, in a family-friendly setting. Open 10:00am - 3:00pm.

VND100000, 1h

1:30pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Explore Vietnam's diverse ethnic cultures with interactive exhibits that engage kids and adults alike. Open 8:30am - 5:30pm.

VND40000, 2h

4:00pm

Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theatre

Watch a traditional Vietnamese water puppet performance, a fun and captivating experience for the whole family. Shows start at 4:30pm and 6:00pm.

VND100000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Home Vietnamese Restaurant

Enjoy delicious, authentic Vietnamese cuisine with kid-friendly options in a cozy atmosphere. Open until 10:00pm.

VND200000, 1h30m

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Day 2: Cultural Discovery

Hanoi, Vietnam on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Hanoi Social Club

Start the day with healthy breakfast options, including fresh juices and pastries, suitable for kids. Open from 8:00am daily.

VND120000, 1h

8:30am

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Visit the mausoleum and surrounding gardens to learn about Vietnam’s history. It’s best to come early to avoid crowds; Mausoleum open 8:00am - 11:00am, closed Mondays and Fridays.

Free, 2h

11:00am

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins and kid-friendly walking paths. Open 8:00am - 5:00pm.

VND30000, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bun Bo Nam Bo restaurant

Taste flavorful beef noodle salad, ideal for families and kids with mild flavors. Open 10:00am - 10:00pm.

VND80000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Old Quarter by Cyclo

Take a cyclo ride through the bustling Hanoi Old Quarter, a lively experience that kids will find exciting. Open all day.

VND150000, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural

See the world’s largest ceramic mosaic wall - a fun and colorful spot for children to admire creativity. Open all day, outdoor attraction.

Free, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Purple Onion

Enjoy a family-friendly menu with international dishes and Vietnamese favorites in the Old Quarter. Open until 10:00pm.

VND180000, 1h30m

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Day 3: To Halong Bay

Hanoi to Halong Bay, Vietnam on May 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a convenient hotel breakfast before departure, with options suitable for kids including fruits and pastries.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Halong Bay

Transfer by private car or shuttle to Halong Bay (approx. 3.5-4 hours). Travel with engaging games or small talks for kids during the journey.

VND1000000 per vehicle approx., 4h

12:00pm

Check in and Lunch at Cruise

Board the family-friendly Halong Bay cruise, enjoy lunch featuring fresh seafood and kid-friendly dishes. Cruises usually serve lunch at boarding around midday.

Included in cruise package, 1h

1:30pm

Halong Bay Cruise and Island Exploration

Relax and explore the stunning limestone karsts and islands by boat. Many tours include visits to caves and floating villages, fun for kids to explore nature.

Included, 3h

5:00pm

Onboard Dinner

Enjoy dinner onboard the cruise featuring local cuisine adapted for families and kids.

Included, 1h30m

7:00pm

Night on the Boat

Spend the night on the cruise; enjoy stargazing or board games which are often provided onboard for kids.

Included, Overnight

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Day 4: Halong and Return

Halong Bay to Hanoi, Vietnam on May 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast Onboard

Enjoy breakfast while cruising back through the peaceful bay, a scenic and calm start for kids.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Kayaking and Swimming

Participate in a guided kayaking trip or supervised swimming in safe areas – a fun water activity for kids and adults alike.

Included, 2h

11:30am

Disembark and Return to Hanoi

Disembark the cruise and begin return journey to Hanoi by vehicle.

Included, 4h

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Arrive back in Hanoi, check-in to hotel and relax after the journey.

Included, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Quan An Ngon

Savor a variety of Vietnamese dishes with friendly service suited for families. Open until 10:00pm.

VND220000, 1h30m

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Day 5: Travel to Hue

Hanoi to Hue, Vietnam on May 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast including Vietnamese and Western options to prepare for the day's travel.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Flight from Hanoi to Hue

Take a morning flight (about 1.5 hours) to Hue, the ancient capital famed for its historic citadel and royal tombs. Flight times may vary, check local airlines for availability.

Approx. VND1500000 per person, 1.5h

10:30am

Check-in and relax

Arrive in Hue, check-in to family-friendly hotel and rest.

Included, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Les Jardins de La Carambole

Enjoy a family-friendly French-Vietnamese fusion lunch in a garden setting. Open 11:00am - 10:00pm.

VND300000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Imperial City of Hue

Visit the UNESCO-listed Citadel complex, including palaces, temples, and walls, great for kids to admire history and explore open spaces. Open 8:00am - 5:30pm.

VND150000, 2h

4:30pm

Boat Ride on Perfume River

Take a short boat trip for views of the city and pagodas along the river, enjoyable and relaxing for the family.

VND200000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ancient Hue

Dine on authentic central Vietnamese cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere perfect for families. Open until 9:30pm.

VND200000, 1h30m

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Day 6: Tombs & Traditions

Hue, Vietnam on May 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast suitable for all ages.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Visit Tomb of Khai Dinh

Explore the elaborate royal tomb known for its blend of traditional and modern architecture. Open 7:00am - 5:30pm.

VND100000, 1h

10:00am

Visit Tomb of Tu Duc

Spend time at this peaceful royal tomb with beautiful gardens and lakes, a hit with kids for open spaces. Open 7:00am - 5:30pm.

VND100000, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ancient Spice Garden

Enjoy Vietnamese dishes in a garden setting, kid-friendly and relaxing. Open 11:00am - 9:00pm.

VND250000, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Royal Antiquities Museum

Discover artifacts from the Nguyen dynasty. Small enough to keep kids engaged with interesting exhibits. Open 7:30am - 5:00pm, closed Monday.

VND50000, 1h

3:30pm

Relax at Thuan An Beach

Spend the afternoon at this calm beach near Hue, perfect for children to play and swim.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hanh Restaurant

Savor authentic Hue specialties in a family-friendly atmosphere. Open until 9:30pm.

VND180000, 1h30m

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Day 7: To Hoi An

Hue to Hoi An, Vietnam on May 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a hearty breakfast before traveling to Hoi An.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Hoi An

Enjoy the scenic 3-hour drive from Hue to Hoi An, crossing the Hai Van Pass with stunning views for the family to enjoy.

VND800000 approx. private car, 3h

11:30am

Check-in and Lunch at Bale Well

Taste local specialties like Cao Lau in this kid-friendly venue with outdoor seating. Open 10:00am - 10:00pm.

VND120000, 1h

1:00pm

Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

Walk through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and old houses, fun and educational for kids. Open 8:00am - 9:00pm.

VND120000 (ticket for children usually discounted), 2h

3:30pm

Lantern Making Workshop

Participate in a hands-on lantern-making class, a creative and enjoyable activity for kids and parents.

VND200000 per person, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Morning Glory Restaurant

Famous for traditional Hoi An dishes and a cozy atmosphere great for families. Open until 10:00pm.

VND250000, 1h30m

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Day 8: Beach Day

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast with kid-friendly options to fuel the day.

Included, 1h

9:00am

An Bang Beach

Spend the day relaxing on the beach with shallow, calm waters perfect for kids to swim and play.

Free, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Hai Café An Bang

Enjoy fresh seafood and light meals with a casual, family-friendly atmosphere right by the beach. Open 10:00am - 9:00pm.

VND150000, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Take a family-friendly bicycle ride to this nearby village and learn about local farming, engaging kids with nature and culture.

Free; bicycle rental approx. VND50000, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Hotel and Rest

Afternoon rest after active day, perfect for kids to recharge.

Included, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at The Cargo Club

Enjoy Western and Vietnamese fusion dishes, with kid favorites like pizza and cakes in a comfortable setting. Open until 10:30pm.

VND220000, 1h30m

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Day 9: Cooking Experience

Hoi An, Vietnam on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Hearty breakfast with options for children.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Family Cooking Class

Join a 4-hour cooking class designed for families where kids can help make Vietnamese dishes and learn about local ingredients.

VND1500000 per family, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch with dishes you cooked

Enjoy the meal prepared during the cooking class together—a rewarding experience for kids to taste their own creations.

Included in class, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Hoi An Museum of History and Culture

Interactive museum exhibits about the town’s trading heritage and traditions can be fascinating for older kids. Open 8:00am - 6:00pm.

VND30000, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Hoi An Night Market

Wander through colorful stalls selling toys, snacks, and souvenirs—fun for kids to explore in the evening. Open daily from 5:00pm.

Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mango Mango

Dine on creative dishes with a view of the river; restaurant is kid-friendly and casual. Open until 10:00pm.

VND250000, 1h30m

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Day 10: Travel to Nha Trang

Hoi An to Nha Trang, Vietnam on May 9, 2025

6:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for travel day.

Included, 1h

7:30am

Drive to Da Nang Airport

Drive approx. 45 minutes to Da Nang Airport for flight to Nha Trang.

VND300000 approx., 45m

9:30am

Flight to Nha Trang

Flight from Da Nang to Nha Trang takes about 1 hour. Flights have several daily options; morning flights are best with children.

Approx. VND1300000 per person, 1h

11:00am

Check-in at hotel and lunch

Check into a beachside family-friendly hotel and enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant with kid menus available.

VND300000 approx., 1h30m

1:00pm

Visit Vinpearl Land Amusement Park

Spend the afternoon at this amusement and water park, ideal for children with rides, an aquarium, and beaches. Open 9:00am - 6:00pm.

VND500000 per adult, VND400000 per child, 4h

6:30pm

Dinner at Sailing Club Nha Trang

Family-friendly restaurant near the beach serving international cuisine with kid favorites. Open until 11:00pm.

VND300000, 1h30m

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Day 11: Beach & Aquarium

Nha Trang, Vietnam on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast with ocean views and child-friendly options in hotel buffet.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam

Explore marine life exhibits and aquariums that captivate kids with interactive displays. Open 7:30am - 5:00pm.

VND40000, 1h30m

10:45am

Relax at Tran Phu Beach

Spend the late morning playing on this sandy beach with calm waters ideal for children.

Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lac Canh Restaurant

Sample famous local BBQ beef and kid-friendly dishes in a casual setting. Open 10:00am - 10:00pm.

VND250000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Long Son Pagoda

Explore this colorful pagoda with a huge white Buddha statue, fun for kids to climb the steps and take photos. Open daily 5:00am - 9:00pm.

Free, 1h

3:30pm

Rest at hotel pool

Cool down at the hotel pool and rest after the day’s activities.

Included, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant

Enjoy vegetarian and meat options in a family-friendly atmosphere with soothing live music. Open until 10:00pm.

VND220000, 1h30m

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Day 12: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a good breakfast before airport transfer.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Airport transfer

Transfer to Cam Ranh Airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

VND400000 approx., 1h

10:30am

Flight to Ho Chi Minh City

Flight takes approx 1 hour; choose a morning flight to maximize afternoon time at destination.

Approx. VND1000000 per person, 1h

11:45am

Check-in and lunch

Check in at a family-friendly hotel in District 1. Have lunch nearby at Pizza 4P's with kid-approved options. Open 10:00am - 10:00pm.

VND250000, 1h30m

1:30pm

Visit Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Explore one of Asia’s oldest zoos with animals and botanical gardens, perfect for children. Open 7:30am - 5:30pm.

VND40000, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs, snacks, and local crafts. Kids will enjoy the colorful stalls and bustling atmosphere. Open until 7:00pm.

Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Hoa Tuc

Dine on contemporary Vietnamese cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere. Open until 10:30pm.

VND300000, 1h30m

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Day 13: City Culture

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast with options to satisfy kids’ tastes and dietary needs.

Included, 1h

8:30am

War Remnants Museum

A powerful and educational visit for older kids to learn about Vietnam’s history. Open 7:30am – 6:00pm. May want to skip for very young children due to content.

VND40000, 2h