Vietnam family tours - 4 unique itineraries

When it comes to planning a family vacation, Vietnam might not be the first destination that comes to mind, but it should be. This Southeast Asian gem offers an array of diverse experiences that are perfect for families. From its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes to its delectable cuisine and warm hospitality, Vietnam has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore four unique itineraries for your Vietnam family tour.

How to plan a family tour of Vietnam

When orchestrating a family journey across Vietnam, meticulous planning is key. You’ll want to consider the weather when planning your Vietnam family tour - November to April is particularly cool and dry. 

Before you set off, you’ll want to ensure all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and vaccinations, are in order. While planning, prioritize booking accommodations that cater to families with amenities such as family suites and kid's clubs. 

You may want to consider having a reputable company take care of the planning for you. Our tailor made trip service allows you and your family to go on the holiday of your dreams without the hassle of planning and booking. All of our trips are planned by local travel experts and are completely customisable by you.

Is your trip to Vietnam just around the corner? Be prepared by reading our tips for traveling in Vietnam.

Best activities in Vietnam for families

Vietnam offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that combine cultural enrichment, education, and recreation. Here are some of the best activities to consider:

Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unveils its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, creating an idyllic playground for families. 

Tailored cruises cater to all ages, offering thrilling onboard escapades like kayaking, spelunking through mesmerising caves, and refreshing swims in the crystal-clear bay.

Water Puppet Show

Introduce your family to the traditional Vietnamese art form of water puppetry. These captivating shows depict scenes from rural life, legends, and folklore using intricately carved puppets in a water-filled stage. You can catch water puppet shows in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Tortoise Island in the Mekong Delta

Tortoise Island, nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, is a hidden gem. Families can explore lush orchards, take boat tours along the delta's intricate waterways, and immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture. Don't forget to try the exotic fruits and flavours unique to this region.

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Engage your family in an educational and delicious experience by taking a Vietnamese cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes, such as pho and spring rolls, under the guidance of skilled chefs. It's a hands-on experience that will leave you with newfound culinary skills and cherished memories.

Mekong Delta Cruise

Explore the enchanting ecosystem of the Mekong Delta with a family-friendly cruise. Witness the bustling floating markets, visit traditional villages, and taste authentic local cuisine. 

Family tour #1: The Wonders Of Vietnam

Embark on a 10-day family tour through Vietnam's finest attractions, starting in the lively capital, Hanoi, and culminating in the enchanting Halong Bay. Delight in leisurely river cruises along the Perfume River, explore the rich history of renowned tombs and temples, and immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City. 

Itinerary overview:

This 10-day itinerary includes a cultural journey through Vietnam, starting with sightseeing in Hanoi, a cruise in Halong Bay, an exploration of Hue and Hoi An, a visit to the Mekong Delta, and concluding with historical and cultural experiences in Ho Chi Minh City before departing. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport.
• City tour with visits to the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, and Quan Thanh Temple.
• Evening entertainment with the Water Puppet Show.

Day 2

• Explore Hanoi with visits to Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, his former residence, One-Pillar Pagoda, and Army Museum (or an alternative site like the Ethnography Museum).

Day 3

• Discover Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a boat cruise.
• Explore the picturesque bay with its limestone islets and grottoes.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch on board.

Day 4

• Depart for Hue.
• Sightseeing in Hue, including visits to the royal tombs of King Tu Duc, King Khai Dinh, and Tu Hieu Pagoda.

Day 5

• Take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.
• Visit Thien Mu Pagoda and the Imperial City.
• Depart from Hue to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass.
• Visit Cham Museum in Danang.

Day 6

• Walking Tour of Hoi An
• Explore Hoi An's historic town with visits to the market, Tan Ky ancient house, Japanese covered bridge, and Fukien Assembly Hall.

Day 7

• Coach trip to Cai Be, followed by a wooden boat ride to Vinh Long.
• Explore the colourful Cai Be floating market and see locals producing rice popcorn and sweets.

Day 8 

• Early morning boat trip to Cai Rang floating market.
• Visit a fruit orchard and taste tropical fruits.

Day 9 

• Drive to Cu Chi Tunnels to explore the underground complex used by Vietcong rebels.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City.
• Afternoon sightseeing, including Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple, and photo stops at the former Presidential Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Day 10

• Leisure time until transfer to Tan Son Nhat airport for departure flight.

Looking for more options for a 10-day family adventure? Choose one of our 10-day Vietnam itineraries.

Family tour #2: From bustling cities to serene landscapes

This 7-day Vietnam tour for families takes you through the country’s most iconic destinations, blending history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Itinerary overview

Start in the bustling streets of Hanoi, venture to the peaceful countryside of Ninh Binh, explore the imperial charm of Hue, and end with the serene beauty of Hoi An. With a mix of city tours, countryside adventures, and coastal scenery, this trip offers the perfect introduction to Vietnam.

Day 1

• Arrival in Hanoi.
• Settle in and explore the vibrant Old Quarter.

Day 2

• Hanoi City Tour.
• Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and enjoy a water puppet show.

Day 3

• Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
• Discover Trang An, Mua Caves, and the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh.

Day 4

• Full Day in Ninh Binh.
• Explore Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda, and cycle through peaceful villages.

Day 5

• Travel to Hue.
• Take an overnight train or flight and arrive in the imperial city of Hue.

Day 6

• Explore Hue.
• Visit the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs.

Day 7

• Hue to Hoi An via Danang.
• Cross the Hai Van Pass, visit Marble Mountains or My Khe Beach, and arrive in Hoi An.

Looking for more ideas? You might also like our 7-day Vietnam itinerary.

Family tour #3: Vietnam Culinary Experience

Embark on a delightful 9-day family culinary journey through Vietnam, where you and your loved ones can bond over cooking classes in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Dive into culture in the imperial city of Hue as you explore royal tombs, then sail through the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay. Wrap up your family adventure with a nostalgic stay in Hanoi.

Itinerary overview

Experience the best of Vietnam with a diverse itinerary. Begin with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City, followed by a cooking class and city exploration. 

Visit historic sites in Hue and explore its royal tombs, then head to Hanoi for a cooking class and city tour. Cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay and conclude your journey with leisure time in Hanoi before departure. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at Ho Chi Minh City / Tan Son Nhat International Airport.
• Evening dinner cruise on Saigon River aboard Lady Hau Cruise.
• Enjoy views of Saigon's landmarks and skyline.

Day 2

• Morning Tai Chi exercise at a park.
• Visit Ben Thanh Market and explore the morning hours.
• Walk along Saigon's streets and enjoy breakfast with pho noodle soup.
• Cooking class at the Vietnam Cookery Centre.
• Evening guided stroll through the Ben Thanh area, known for street food.

Day 3

• Half-day Saigon City Tour, visiting Cho lon (Chinatown), Thien Hau Pagoda, Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the former Presidential Palace.

Day 4

• Full-day city tour in Hue, visiting the Hue Citadel, Mr Phan Thuan An's garden house, and Tu Duc and Khai Dinh Royal Tombs.

Day 5

• Visit the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts.
• Explore Dong Ba Market.
• Lunch at Tha Om garden house.

Day 6

• Hands-on cooking class at the Hanoi Cooking Centre.
• Market tour at Chau Long Market.
• Afternoon Hanoi City Tour, including Ba Dinh Square, One-Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Day 7

• Depart for Halong City with a stop at Hong Ngoc Humanitarian Centre.
• Explore Halong Bay, visit caves, swim, and optional kayaking.
• Attend a cooking demonstration and have dinner on board.
• Overnight accommodation on an overnight cruise in Halong Bay.

Day 8

• Early Tai Chi session on the sundeck (depending on the cruise program).
• Return to Halong Pier and transfer to Hanoi.
• Check-in at Sunway Hotel.
• Free time to explore Hanoi's street food scene.

Day 9

• Free time for leisure.
• Transfer to Hanoi / Noi Bai International Airport for departure.

 Excited about this journey? Reserve your spot today.

Heading to northern Vietnam? Our itineraries have everything you need for an unforgettable journey.

Family tour #4: Very Vietnam

Explore lush rice paddies, visit charming traditional villages, shop at vibrant markets, and explore awe-inspiring temples and pagodas on this 16-day itinerary.

 Experience the enchantment of historic cities, embark on a family-friendly cruise through the magical Halong Bay, relax on untouched, sandy beaches, and immerse yourselves in the vibrant energy of bustling Ho Chi Minh City. This family trip to Vietnam promises a mix of culture, relaxation, and unforgettable moments for all ages.

Itinerary overview

Embark on a 16-day adventure through Vietnam, from the historic streets of Hanoi to the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, the cultural treasures of Hue, the charming town of Hoi An, coastal Nha Trang, and the picturesque city of Dalat. 

Explore local villages, cultural sites, and natural wonders, culminating in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, with options for unique experiences such as a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels or a trip to Ben Tre. Your journey concludes with leisure time before departing from Tan Son Nhat airport. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrive at Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport.
• Transfer to your hotel and check in.
• City tour in the afternoon, including Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Day 2 

• Full-day city tour, visiting Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, One-Pillar Pagoda, and the Army Museum.
• Explore the Temple of Literature, Fine Arts Museum, and Quan Thanh Temple.
• Enjoy a Water Puppet Show in the evening.

Day 3

• Prepare for your transfer to the next destination.

Day 4 

• Explore Mai Chau Valley, and visit surrounding villages and rice paddies by bicycle.
• Drive to Ninh Binh, known as "the Dry Halong Bay," and row a sampan along limestone rocks.

Day 5

• Drive to Halong via Hai Phong, with a short sightseeing tour in Hai Phong.

Day 6

• Explore Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site with limestone islets and caves.
• Visit islands, caves, and swim at Titov beach. Dinner and overnight on board.

Day 7 

• Take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial City, and King Tu Duc’s tomb.
• Stroll around Dong Ba market if time allows.

Day 8 

• Explore Kim Long village by bicycle, experiencing Hue’s cultural relics and art of living.

Day 9

• Drive to Danang via the Hai Van Pass, with a visit to the Cham museum before proceeding to Hoi An.

Day 10

• Join a tour to explore the local fishermen community, including fishing techniques and a seafood lunch.

Day 11

• Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang.

Day 12

• Explore Dalat, visiting the Summer Palace of Emperor Bao Dai, Xuan Huong Lake, and the "Crazy House."

Day 13

• Visit the Dalat Flower Garden and stop by tea, coffee, and rubber plantations before heading to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 14

• City tour, including History Museum, former Presidential Palace, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Afternoon visit to Thien Hau temple, Chinatown, and Binh Tay market.

Day 15

• Visit Tay Ninh to explore Cao-Daism.
• Continue to Cu Chi Tunnels, used during the Vietnam War.
• Alternative: Coach trip to Ben Tre for a unique experience.
• Return to Ho Chi Minh City for the night.

Day 16

• Enjoy leisure time until your transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for departure.

Take a hassle-free Vietnam family tour

Vietnam is waiting for you, and our local experts are here to plan exceptional adventures. Get in touch with us whenever you're ready to travel, and we'll create a bespoke itinerary that you can fine-tune until it aligns perfectly with your preferences. Don't forget to explore our existing Vietnam itineraries for inspiration, and know that each can be customised to suit your unique needs.