Family trip to Vietnam - Tips and itinerary ideas

A trip is surely one of the greatest gifts you could give your children. It is undoubtedly a special moment when you discover a new country, and a new culture and share unique moments with them. But don't yet know where to go with your family? What to bring?... You are in the right place!

So in this article, you will find all the information to organize your trip to Vietnam with your family.

1. Where to go to Vietnam with your family?

It is first necessary to carefully choose the vacation destination according to your desires as well as the types of activities desired by all members of your family. Before choosing this or that destination, you need to look for basic information about your destination, find activities that suit your little ones and, more importantly, it is wise to discuss. Because some parents tend to organize the holidays on their own, so ask for everyone’s opinion before choosing your destination, your activities, and the type of accommodation. In this way, young and old will find what they are looking for.

Here is the list of destinations to recommend for your family vacation in Vietnam.

1.1. Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a huge, lively and incredible city to discover. It often makes a strong impression, especially on families with children. Take your children to visit museums, watch a water puppet show or simply participate in cultural activities on the pedestrian streets in the Old Quarter!

>> Read more: The must-see places to visit in Hanoi and its surroundings

1.2. Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, nicknamed Halong Bay on land, is on the list of the most preferred destinations in Northern Vietnam. It is made up of very beautiful natural landscapes and cultural sites. It is a place particularly suitable for families. It can be travelled by small boat, by bike or on foot to appreciate the magnificent landscapes sculpted by countless limestone mountains and intertwined rice fields.

>> Read more: How to visit Ninh Binh in 24 hours?

1.3. Mai Chau

Located 150 km from Hanoi, Mai Chau is a destination appreciated by travellers wishing to discover a pretty Vietnamese mountain, rice fields as far as the eye can see and small hamlets made up of traditional houses on stilts. Depending on your desire, you can take an excursion by bike or on foot through the villages to discover local life.

>> Read more: Top things to do in Mai Chau and the surrounding area

1.4. Halong

The majestic Halong Bay is one of the legendary travel destinations, worth visiting at least once in life. A cruise aboard the junk is always the best way to discover this wonderful bay. You can choose the itinerary and the duration from one to several days according to your wishes.

>> Read more: How to choose your cruise in Halong Bay? [2023]

1.5. Hue

Situated on the banks of the peaceful Huong River, Hue is known as a city rich in culture and historical monuments. And it would be great to get to know its interesting places as a family. Let yourself be carried along the water as you discover the majestic imperial tombs, pagodas, peaceful villages and the hypnotic countryside of Hue.

>> Read more: 10 things to do in Hue

1.6. Hoi An

Hoi An is known not only for being a charming town, characterized by well-preserved ancient houses, and fine cuisine but also for its enchanting nature. It is undoubtedly a perfect destination for a family vacation. This city actually has so much to offer. Take a tour of the old town, a boat trip along the Thu Bon River or a bicycle tour through the villages. After a day, Hoi An still promises cooking and lantern-making classes with the family or relaxing moments at the beach.

>> Read more: Hoi An of Vietnam - Top 10 things to do in Hoi An

1.7. Ho Chi Minh

Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh is the largest city in Vietnam. It’s an extraordinary destination that it’s unthinkable not to discover during your family trip. Let yourself be seduced by numerous visits to the city's cultural and historical sites as well as discoveries of markets with appealing smells.

>> Read more: Top 12+ best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

1.8. Mekong Delta

Have you ever heard of a place in Vietnam where you don't walk but sail?

Yes, it’s the Mekong Delta. This region is characterized by a multitude of rivers, billions of small canals, markets and floating villages. By taking advantage of a boat on the river and canals, you can acquire a lot of knowledge about local life and meet the people. Don’t forget to leave very early in the morning to be able to visit these markets during their busiest time.

>> Read more: Top 10 unmissable activities in the Mekong Delta

1.9. Phu Quoc

If you're looking for a tropical island, there's no reason to miss this paradise.

Nicknamed “the pearl island”, Phu Quoc is believed to be one of the most magnificent islands in Vietnam. With its long white sand beaches and lush vegetation, this island has everything to satisfy sea lovers.

>> Read more: 12 Unmissable experiences in Phu Quoc Island

2. Activities while travelling with children

Vietnam has a lot to offer families, with a great choice of experiences for children of all ages. Each top destination in Vietnam has something unique to offer.

Here are some ideas for activities to consider during your family tour in Vietnam:

2.1. Water puppet show

Attending the water puppet show is an experience that delights both children and parents during a stay in Hanoi.

It is a performing art linked to the flooded rice cultivation of farmers in the Red River Delta, which appeared in the 11th century. It always takes place underwater in a pond or village pool. The puppets are made of wood and carved into different shapes and lacquered. The puppeteers hide behind a curtain and assiduously deploy their hands and their meticulous care to make the figures play. The puppet scenario is generally village scenes like rice cultivation, fishing, fun activities of the villagers... Moreover, the success of these shows also owes to perfect coordination between the artists and the orchestra traditional.

2.2. Cooking lessons

Vietnamese cuisine is known to be one of the best and healthiest cuisines in the world. Participating in a cooking class while travelling in Vietnam is undoubtedly a good way to learn Vietnamese culture in depth and bring back some recipes home to share with your friends. In particular, there is nothing better than spending quality time with your family while preparing Vietnamese dishes together.

2.3. Cycle rickshaw tour

A cycle rickshaw tour is a fun and authentic experience when visiting the Old Quarter of Hanoi or Hue. Drivers will take you through the narrow streets, allowing you to experience local life.

2.4. Bike tour

If you are looking for a different getaway in Vietnam, nothing is better than taking a bike ridewhich will take you to discover the country's hidden treasures and meet locals. Whether in Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, Hoi An or the Mekong Delta, a bicycle excursion always promises an experience rich in discoveries and emotions.

2.5. Visit a local school

A visit to a local school can be an interesting and educational experience for your children during a stay in Vietnam. However, it is a bit difficult to enter a school without the help of a local guide.

2.6. Manufacture of an artisanal product with the help of a local craftsman

In the North and South of Vietnam, there are many artisanal villages. By discovering one or more artisanal villages, your children will have the opportunity to discover the richness of traditional Vietnamese crafts by participating in an artisanal workshop.

- In Hanoi: Your children can make a lacquerware object, the traditional Vietnamese conical hat or pottery at Bat Trang ceramic village.

- In Hoi An – a city of thousands of colourful lanterns: Once visited, your little ones will have the opportunity to attend a lantern-making class.

2.7. Night at homestay

If you are looking for a unique experience for your children, why not think about spending a few nights with a local in Vietnam in this case? This allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere, culture and local life while having a responsible and sustainable approach. You will be warmly welcomed by the host family in their traditional houses and will share highlights during a family trip to Vietnam.

3. Tips and tricks for a successful family vacation in Vietnam

Here are some tips and tricks to make your family vacation unforgettable.

3.1. Establish rules

Another tip to make your family trip a success: establish rules so that everything goes smoothly. Young and old must, for example, agree on activities to do together or separately, especially if these are prohibited for children.

3.2. Find promotions

When you travel as a family, the question of budget always comes up. You must constantly think about the limit of your budget. It is entirely possible to enjoy a trip without having to tighten your belt. Our advice is to opt for promotional tours set up by travel agencies.

3.3. Choose suitable accommodation

It can be a little difficult to find accommodation that suits your family's needs. Indeed, a stay in accommodation with leisure equipment or infrastructure for children is always a good choice. In addition, it is advisable to find a quiet place, to allow your children to sleep peacefully after days full of activities. As well as secure locations.

3.4. Prepare your suitcases well

- For children, a trip accompanied by a change in their habits can be a source of anxiety. Therefore, it is advisable to involve the child in the choice of clothes, toys, and books for the evenings. Don't hesitate to explain to them, quietly, how the trip will go and what awaits them during the vacation.

- If you want to go on a trip to a tropical country such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, etc., don't forget your hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!

- When travelling with children, you must absolutely carry a first aid kit containing: arnica (gel and granules), dressings, thermometer, rehydration sachets, disinfectant (preferably uncoloured to better detect a possible infection), biafine (for sunburns and burns), cocculin (for motion sickness), doliprane… and prescribed medications if necessary.

4. How to travel to Vietnam with your family?

It’s easy to get around Vietnam. Here are some transportation options to answer this question.

- Domestic Flight: If you plan to travel long distances within the country, domestic flights are a quick and most convenient option. There are airlines in Vietnam: Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, Bamboo Airway, Vietjet Air and Viet Travel. It is advisable to take Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airway flights to get good quality service.
The plane is a very practical and fast means of transport for long journeys within the country.

- Night train: You can travel long distances by train. However, it should be noted that Vietnamese trains are slightly different from Western trains. They are loud and vibrant. Among the most popular lines are those linking Hanoi to Sapa, Ha Noi to Hue, as well as Nha Trang - Ho Chi Minh City. You generally sleep in soft berths, quite comfortably. A night train also allows travellers to save time while saving a night in a hotel.

- Private car: if your budget allows, nothing is more ideal than taking a private car for short distances. If you need a car seat for your baby, ask your supplier in advance, baby car seats are not generally equipped in cars.

5. Tour ideas for your family vacation in Vietnam

It is advisable to leave for an itinerary of at least 2 weeks with your children to make the most of it and to discover the country from North to South without rushing.

Find below some family tour ideas for you to discover Vietnam with a suitable program and pace.

5.1 Family tour in Vietnam in 15 days

When travelling with children, it is advisable to plan an itinerary with a light pace so that everyone can fully enjoy their vacation. Here is a 2-week tour in Vietnam, designed for a family vacation. Completely private and flexible, the program combines a large number of fun activities at every stage. Starting from Hanoi to the heart of the Red River Delta at Ninh Binh. Continue the journey with a relaxing cruise aboard a junk in the magical Halong Bay then head towards the Centre to visit the historical treasures of Hue and Hoi An. After a seaside stay in Hoi An, head to the discovery of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta... Take a memorable tour in Vietnam that will remain in your fondest memories!

5.2 Family tour in Vietnam in 3 weeks

If you have more time and want to discover as many regions of Vietnam as possible, this 3-week tour will be for you!

Departing from Hanoi, travel to the mountain region of Mai Chau - Pu Luong. Explore Ninh Binh - Halong Bay on land by rowing boat and enjoy a cruise aboard a junk in Halong Bay before boarding an "Indochinese colonial-style train" to Dong Hoi to explore beautiful caves at Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park. Then continue discovering the heritage land in Hue and Hoi An. Then fly to Ho Chi Minh City for a tour in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Particularly, if you are leaving at the end of the year, Phu Quoc Island will be highly recommended to complete your tour and spend a stay with your feet in the water with so many unforgettable moments.

Day 1: Hanoi – arrival
Day 2: Hanoi – city tour
Day 3: Hanoi - Mai Chau: exploration of Thai culture in the village of Mai Hich
Day 4: Mai Chau – Pu Luong: departure for Pu Luong, hiking through the villages, bamboo raft ride
Day 5: Pu Luong – Ninh Binh: visit the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, bike ride, rowing boat excursion in Tam Coc or Van Long
Day 6: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay: Cruise aboard a junk
Day 7: Halong Bay – Hanoi – night train to Dong Hoi
Day 8: Dong Hoi – Phong Nha – Thien Duong: Exploring Phong Nha Cave and Thien Duong at Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park
Day 9: Phong Nha – Vinh Moc – Hue: Visit the Vinh Moc tunnel, then drive to Hue
Day 10: Hue – city and village tour: Boat trip along the Perfume River, bike ride through the villages, visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue Citadel.
Day 11: Hue – Hoi An: visit the tomb of Khai Dinh, road to Hoi An – visit the old town of Hoi An
Day 12: Hoi An – village tour by bike
Day 13: Hoi An – free day for a seaside stay
Day 14: Hoi An – flight to Ho Chi Minh – city tour
Day 15: Ho Chi Minh – Ben Tre – Cai Lay: boat excursion to discover the Mekong Delta.
Day 16: Cai Lay – Sa Dec – Long Xuyen: Bike ride in the villages, visit Sa Dec, departure for Long Xuyen
Day 17: Long Xuyen – visit Long Xuyen floating market – drive to Rach Gia – fast boat to Phu Quoc
Day 18: Phu Quoc – seaside stay
Day 19: Phu Quoc – seaside stay
Day 20: Phu Quoc – seaside stay
Day 21: Phu Quoc – flight to Ho Chi Minh
Day 22: Ho Chi Minh – departure flight

For a worry-free family vacation, there's nothing like an all-inclusive tour, organized by a local agency that will always please everyone, young and old alike.

All you have to do is book the plane tickets...

Related articles:

>> Top 8 things to do in Vietnam with the family

>> Travel by train in Vietnam, why not?

>> Vietnam in 10 days - Immersion in authentic northern Vietnam