Are you looking for a family vacation that is fun, educational, and memorable? Do you want to explore a country that has something for everyone, from stunning landscapes, to rich history, to delicious food? Do you want to share an adventure with your loved ones that will bring you closer together? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should consider traveling to Vietnam with your kids.
Vietnam is a country that will surprise you with its beauty, charm, and diversity. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, relaxation, or gastronomy, Vietnam has something for everyone. You can visit the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where you can learn about the country's past and present. You can cruise along the majestic Halong Bay or the serene Mekong Delta, where you can admire the natural wonders and the local life. You can hike in the mountains of Sapa or relax on the beaches of Nha Trang, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the stunning views. You can also experience the unique culture and traditions of Vietnam's ethnic minorities, who will welcome you with their hospitality and smiles.
But traveling to Vietnam with kids is not without its challenges. You need to be prepared for the visa requirements, the weather conditions, the safety issues, and the cultural differences. You also need to be aware of the environmental and social impacts of your travel and how to minimize them.
That's why we have created this article for planning a perfect family vacation in Vietnam. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about choosing the best places to visit, enjoying the best activities and experiences, finding the best accommodation and food options, and traveling responsibly and respectfully. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this article will help you make the most of your time in Vietnam with your kids.
Why Vietnam is a Great Destination for Families
Vietnam is a country that will surprise you with its beauty, charm, and diversity. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, relaxation, or gastronomy, Vietnam has something for everyone. You can visit the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where you can learn about the country's past and present. You can cruise along the majestic Halong Bay or the serene Mekong Delta, where you can admire the natural wonders and the local life.
You can hike in the mountains of Sapa or relax on the beaches of Nha Trang, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the stunning views. You can also experience the unique culture and traditions of Vietnam's ethnic minorities, who will welcome you with their hospitality and smiles.
But what makes Vietnam a great destination for families is not only its attractions, but also its experiences. Vietnam offers plenty of activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Some of the most popular ones include:
- Having fun on the sandy beaches: Vietnam has over 3,000 km (1,864 mi) of coastline, with many beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, or playing in the sand. Some of the best beaches for families are An Bang in Hoi An, Bai Sao in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang Bay, and Mui Ne.
- Checking out the world-renowned museums: Vietnam has many museums that showcase its rich history, culture, and art. Some of the most interesting ones for families are the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, which displays the effects of the Vietnam War; the Oceanographic Museum in Nha Trang, which exhibits marine life; and the Ethnology Museum in Hanoi, which introduces the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam.
- Tasting the local food: Vietnamese food is one of the most delicious and healthy cuisines in the world. It is based on fresh ingredients, herbs, spices, and sauces. It is also very diverse, with different dishes from different regions. Some of the must-tries for families are pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwich), spring rolls, sticky rice, and tropical fruits.
- Learning about new cultures: Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by Chinese, Khmer, Indian, and French civilizations. It is also home to 54 ethnic groups, each with their own customs, languages, and costumes. Families can learn about these cultures by visiting their villages, markets, temples, festivals, and workshops.
Vietnam is also a very friendly and safe country for families. The locals are very welcoming and helpful to visitors, especially children. The country has a low crime rate and a good health care system. The transport system is also convenient and affordable, with many options such as buses, trains, taxis, motorbikes, bicycles, or boats.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
Vietnam is a country that requires some preparation and planning before you visit. There are some important things that you need to know before you go to Vietnam, such as:
Visa and passport requirements
Tourists must have some documents to enter Vietnam, such as a visa and a passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond one's planned stay. Fortunately, vacationers can apply for electronic visas, which help cover short-term getaways to Vietnam. However, the visa rules vary depending on your nationality, so make sure to check the official website of the Vietnam Immigration Department and the visa information and Vietnam entry requirements page for the latest information.
Weather and seasons
One of the most important things to know before going to Vietnam is to study and understand Vietnam’s weather. With such an elongated country, it’s only natural the weather is significantly different from region to region in Vietnam.
Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, and the weather can vary greatly from the north to south. If you want to enjoy mild and dry weather, the best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April.
This is when the country experiences the least amount of rain and the temperatures are comfortable. However, this is also the peak season for Vietnam tourism, so you may encounter higher prices and more crowds.
The southern part of Vietnam experiences its dry season typically from December to May, wet season is from May to November; and the northern area of Vietnam experiences four seasons: Spring: February – April, Summer: May- July, Fall: August – October and Winter: November – January. Of course, the weather in Vietnam is always changeable, so be sure to bring raincoats, sweaters and other layered items, hats and sunglasses.
Transport and travel options
Vietnam has a convenient and affordable transport system, with many options such as buses, trains, taxis, motorbikes, bicycles, or boats. Depending on your budget, time, and preference, you can choose the best way to travel around Vietnam. For long distances, flying is the fastest and most comfortable option, as Vietnam has many domestic airports that connect major cities.
For scenic routes, trains are a good choice, as they offer views of the countryside and the coast.
For short distances, buses are cheap and frequent, but they can be crowded and noisy. For more flexibility and adventure, motorbikes are popular among locals and tourists alike, but they require skills and caution.
For eco-friendly and leisurely travel, bicycles are a great way to explore rural areas and small towns. For water-based travel, boats are available for cruising along rivers, lakes, or bays.
Culture and etiquette
Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by Chinese, Khmer, Indian, and French civilizations. It is also home to 54 ethnic groups, each with their own customs, languages, and costumes. To respect the local culture and etiquette in Vietnam, there are some things that you should know before you go. For example:
- Dress modestly when visiting temples or pagodas. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your shoes before entering.
- Avoid public displays of affection or touching someone's head or shoulders. These are considered rude or inappropriate in Vietnamese culture.
- Greet people with a smile and a slight bow or nod. Use both hands when giving or receiving something.
- Do not point with your finger or your feet. Use your whole hand or gesture with your head instead.
- Do not criticize or joke about the government or the Communist Party. This can be seen as offensive or disrespectful.
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets or stalls. Do not show anger or frustration if you cannot get the price you want.
- Tip generously for good service at restaurants, hotels, spas, or tours. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in Vietnam.
These are some of the things that you need to know before you go to Vietnam. By following these tips, you will have a smoother and more enjoyable trip in this amazing country
Best Places to Visit in Vietnam with Kids
There are plenty of places to enjoy some wholesome family fun in this beautiful country. But how do you choose the best places to visit in Vietnam with kids? Here are some tips and suggestions that will help you plan your perfect family vacation in Vietnam.
Consider your interests and preferences
Vietnam has a variety of destinations that cater to different types of travelers. Do you prefer cities or countryside? Beaches or mountains? History or nature? Culture or adventure? Depending on your interests and preferences, you can narrow down your options and focus on the places that suit you best. For example, if you love history and culture, you can visit Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, or Ho Chi Minh City. If you love nature and adventure, you can visit Sapa, Halong Bay, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, or Cat Tien National Park. If you love beaches and relaxation, you can visit Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc, or Con Dao Islands.
Consider the weather and seasons
Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, and the weather can vary greatly from the north to south. If you want to enjoy mild and dry weather, the best time to visit Vietnam is from November to April. This is when the country experiences the least amount of rain and the temperatures are comfortable. However, this is also the peak season for tourism, so you may encounter higher prices and more crowds. The southern part of Vietnam experiences its dry season typically from December to May, wet season is from May to November; and the northern area of Vietnam experiences four seasons: Spring: February – April, Summer: May- July, Fall: August – October and Winter: November – January. Of course, the weather in Vietnam is always changeable, so be sure to check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
Consider the travel time and distance
Vietnam is a long and narrow country that stretches over 3,000 km (1,864 mi) from north to south. Traveling from one end to the other can take a lot of time and effort, especially if you have kids with you. Therefore, it is advisable to choose a few places that are close to each other or easily accessible by plane, train, bus, or boat. For example, if you want to explore the north of Vietnam, you can choose Hanoi as your base and take day trips or overnight tours to Sapa, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, or Mai Chau. If you want to explore the south of Vietnam, you can choose Ho Chi Minh City as your base and take day trips or overnight tours to Mekong Delta, Cu Chi Tunnels, Dalat, or Phu Quoc.
Consider the kid-friendly activities and attractions
Vietnam has plenty of activities and attractions that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Some of the most popular ones for families include:
Having fun on the sandy beaches
Vietnam has many beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, or playing in the sand. Some of the best beaches for families are An Bang in Hoi An, Bai Sao in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang Bay, and Mui Ne.
Checking out the world-renowned museums
Vietnam has many museums that showcase its rich history, culture, and art. Some of the most interesting ones for families are the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, which displays the effects of the Vietnam War; the Oceanographic Museum in Nha Trang, which exhibits marine life; and the Ethnology Museum in Hanoi, which introduces the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam.
Tasting the local food
Vietnamese food is one of the most delicious and healthy cuisines in the world. It is based on fresh ingredients, herbs, spices, and sauces. It is also very diverse, with different dishes from different regions. Some of the must-tries for families are pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwich), spring rolls, sticky rice, and tropical fruits.
Learning about new cultures
Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture, influenced by Chinese, Khmer, Indian, and French civilizations. It is also home to 54 ethnic groups, each with their own customs, languages, and costumes. Families can learn about these cultures by visiting their villages, markets, temples, festivals, and workshops.
These are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam with kids:
- Hanoi: The capital city of Vietnam is a vibrant and lively place that will captivate your kids with its sights, sounds, and smells. You can visit the Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake) and see the Ngoc Son Temple located in the middle of the lake. You can also check out the Central Post Office, which is a beautiful colonial building that still functions as a post office. You can also enjoy a traditional water puppet show, which is a unique art form that originated in the rice fields of northern Vietnam. Hanoi is also a great base for day trips or overnight tours to Halong Bay, Sapa, Ninh Binh, or Mai Chau.
- Hoi An: This UNESCO-listed ancient town is one of the most charming and picturesque places in Vietnam. Its yellow buildings are adorned with colorful lanterns and flowers, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. You can enjoy banana boat rides, cooking classes, and lantern-making workshops with your kids. You can also cycle through the rice fields or take a kayak tour down the river. Hoi An is also famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made clothes for yourself or your kids at very reasonable prices.
- Nha Trang: This coastal city is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, kayak, or play in the sand on its pristine beaches. You can also visit the Oceanographic Museum, which exhibits marine life and educates visitors about the importance of ocean conservation. You can also take a luxury cruise in Nha Trang Bay or go kayaking in Lan Ha Bay, where you can see stunning islands and caves. Nha Trang is also home to Vinpearl Land, which is a huge amusement park that features a zoo, an aquarium, a water park, and many rides and shows.
- Ho Chi Minh City: The largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam is a contrast of old and new, where skyscrapers coexist with colonial buildings and temples. You can visit the War Remnants Museum, which displays the effects of the Vietnam War on both sides. You can also visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, which are an underground network of tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the war. You can also enjoy a Mekong river boat tour, where you can see the rural life and culture of the delta region. Ho Chi Minh City is also a great place to try Vietnamese street food, such as banh mi (sandwich), pho (noodle soup), spring rolls, sticky rice, and tropical fruits.
- Mui Ne: This seaside town is famous for its spectacular sand dunes, which come in different colors and shapes. You can rent a jeep or a quad bike and explore these natural wonders with your kids. You can also visit the Fairy Stream, which is a shallow creek that flows through red sand formations and green vegetation. Mui Ne also has many upscale resort choices that are very reasonably priced.
Best Activities and Experiences in Vietnam with Kids
Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, nature, or fun, you will find something that suits your family's interests and preferences. Here are some of the best activities and experiences in Vietnam with kids.
- Crawl through war-time tunnels: If you want to learn about the history of Vietnam and the Vietnam War, you can visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City. These are an underground network of tunnels that were used by the Viet Cong during the war. You can see how they lived, fought, and survived in these tunnels. You can also crawl through some of the tunnels yourself, if you are brave enough. This is a fascinating and educational experience for kids who are interested in history and adventure.
- Create traditional pottery pieces in Bat Trang: If you want to unleash your creativity and learn about the local culture, you can visit the artisan village of Bat Trang near Hanoi. This is a village that specializes in making pottery and ceramics. You can see how they make these beautiful products by hand, using traditional techniques and tools. You can also join a workshop where you can make your own pottery pieces, such as bowls, cups, or vases. You can paint them with different colors and patterns, and take them home as souvenirs.
- Take a Vietnamese cookery class: If you want to taste the delicious and healthy cuisine of Vietnam and learn how to make it yourself, you can take a Vietnamese cookery class. There are many places that offer these classes, especially in Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi. You can learn how to make some of the most popular dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwich), spring rolls, sticky rice, and tropical fruits. You can also visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients and learn about the different herbs and spices. This is a fun and interactive way to introduce your kids to Vietnamese food and culture.
- Get on your bike: If you want to explore the countryside and see the rural life of Vietnam, you can get on your bike and cycle through the rice fields, vegetable villages, or mountain trails. There are many places that offer bike tours or rentals, such as Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Sapa, or Mekong Delta. You can see the stunning scenery, meet the friendly locals, and enjoy the fresh air. Cycling is also a great way to exercise and bond with your family.
- Watch a traditional water puppet show: If you want to enjoy a unique and entertaining show that showcases the Vietnamese culture and folklore, you can watch a traditional water puppet show. This is a form of art that originated in the rice fields of northern Vietnam. The puppets are made of wood and controlled by hidden puppeteers who stand in the water. The puppets perform stories and scenes that reflect the daily life and legends of Vietnam. The show is accompanied by live music and singing. You can watch these shows in Hanoi at the Thang Long Puppet Theater or in Ho Chi Minh City at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater.
- Chill at the beach: If you want to relax and have some fun in the sun, you can chill at the beach in one of the many coastal towns or islands in Vietnam. You can swim, sunbathe, surf, kayak, or play in the sand on these pristine beaches. Some of the best beaches for families are An Bang in Hoi An, Bai Sao in Phu Quoc, Nha Trang Bay, and Mui Ne. You can also enjoy some fresh seafood or ice cream at the beachside cafes or restaurants.
- Create a traditional lantern or mask in Hoi An: If you want to experience the charm and beauty of Hoi An's ancient town, you can create a traditional lantern or mask in one of its many workshops. Hoi An is famous for its colorful lanterns that light up its streets at night. You can learn how to make these lanterns by choosing a bamboo frame, a silk cover, and a pattern. You can also make a mask by choosing a paper mache base, a paint color, and a design. These are fun and easy activities that will let your kids express their creativity and take home a souvenir of Hoi An.
- Scale the heights of Sapa: If you want to see the breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys of northern Vietnam, you can scale the heights of Sapa. Sapa is a town that is surrounded by stunning rice terraces and ethnic villages. You can go trekking, hiking, or biking in these areas, and see the different landscapes and cultures. You can also visit the Bac Ha Market, which is a colorful and lively market where you can buy local products and see the costumes of the hill-tribe people. You can also stay in an authentic Sapa homestay, where you can experience the hospitality and lifestyle of the local families.
- Take a cruise on Halong Bay: If you want to see one of the most spectacular natural wonders of Vietnam, you can take a cruise on Halong Bay. Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features thousands of limestone islands and caves. You can take a luxury cruise or a budget cruise, depending on your preference and budget. You can enjoy the scenery, the food, and the activities on board. You can also go kayaking, swimming, or exploring in some of the islands and caves. Halong Bay is a must-see for any family visiting Vietnam.
- Meet hill-tribe people in Sapa & See Bac Ha Market: If you want to learn about the diverse and rich culture of Vietnam's ethnic minorities, you can meet hill-tribe people in Sapa and see Bac Ha Market. Sapa is home to many ethnic groups, such as the H'mong, the Dao, the Tay, and the Giay. You can visit their villages, markets, temples, festivals, and workshops, and learn about their customs, languages, and costumes. You can also join them in their dance, music, and games. Bac Ha Market is one of the largest and most colorful markets in the region, where you can see the different products and costumes of the hill-tribe people.
Tips When Travelling in Vietnam with Kids
It is so amazing to have a family. Our life goal, happiness and the reason why we forfeit all the life plans of becoming an astronaut or traveling around the world… Wait, you can still do that! And Vietnam offers much to enjoy with kids – the enchanting water puppet theatres, the markets full of strange sounds and smells, laid-back beach resorts and islands, friendly local communities and of course the cuisines and fresh fruits.
Ok, maybe becoming astronaut is a kind more complicated, but definitely traveling to far exotic places can be done. All you need is the general direction, time, some money and some tips for traveling with kids. I know you are already very experienced as a parent, but it is always good to learn from others mistakes then from yours.
Probably the biggest benefit of traveling with kids is not even the sake of your leisure, but the opportunity to gather so much experience, firstly for the kids. There is no better school of life then real life adventure, meeting new people, new place and new cultures. Kids will love the boat-oriented fun on Halong Bay and Mekong Delta and will absorb history and perspective at the French and American War sites. Plus, the whole family will enjoy exploring the colorful, incense-filled temples, riding bikes through rice paddies and more!
This is a list of tips for traveling to Vietnam, but it can be applied really for any kind of travel:
Time: You need to plan extra time for simply everything. Whether it is visiting the pagoda, or lunch, or just checking out. You need extra time to get to the airport, you need extra time to board (that’s why you have a priority once traveling with kids). Plan a bit less, don’t get hectic on a number of things you want to see. Plan half, leave the other half to the natural pace.
Insurance: you need a travel insurance, for the whole family. It’s a must. The better one, the safer it might be. Apart from that, print down the list of places you will get help in case.
Toiletries; diapers, wet tissues (heaven sent item), extra clothes, towel. Kids have tendency to makes things wet, dirty at the astonishing pace. Sometimes 5 sets daily are not enough. Wet tissue is probably the most usable thing ever invented for the kids, and recommended for all travelers. Btw: extra set of clothes for the kids and for you.
Food: ready snack, instant formula, hot water bottle (be aware of the airplane restrictions though).
Medical: antihistamine, fever relief syrup, plasters, pantheon spray.
Play: tablet filled with videos, games, drawing apps etc., some kids’ favorites.
Asia is very safe in general, however there are number of things you should remember when traveling there:
Asian Streets: Asia is a likely a bit more crowded than your home country. Especially Vietnam, where you experience zillions of people, motorbikes and cars everywhere, basically there is plenty of everything everywhere, so you need to be sure that your kid stay within the range. Full name and phone number on the kid’s back is doesn’t sound that silly, but you can also use some of the modern world amazing electronic tracking devices - just in case.
Asian Food: food is safe, but can be surprisingly spicy. Also very often contains a lot of monosodium glutamate, which you rather should limit in your kid diet. Also sadly, although fruits are safe when fresh, washed and peeled, fresh green might contain parasites, therefore soaking them in salty water for at least 10 minutes or even steaming them is highly recommended.
Tropical conditions: it is often superhot and super sunny. It is also often super dirty. It all raises the concern about the bacteria around. You can be sure that your child will gather extra amount of it during the trip, unless you lock them in a vacuum chamber. Hand sanitizer is not going to solve the problem, so first is to check which vaccinations you need for Asia (check which ones are suitable for the kids), second is a common sense (no its not ok to swim in a stalled water in the middle of the jungle), finally third is keeping kids well fed and hydrated; means drink more than you think you have to. Same applies to kids. This will eventually lead to become very familiar with toilets in Asia. So just in case; more diapers, more extra clothes for changes, more wet tissues.
Budget hotels: Many budget hotels don't have lift. This means there can be a lot of stairs. Budget hotels won’t always have a spare person to help with your luggage. This is something to keep in mind when you are packing.
Vietnamese are some of the nicest, friendliest, kindest and happiest people you could meet. They’re charming without being pushy, helpful, lovers of children and just genuinely nice. You can find a lot of online guides from families traveling to Vietnam with kids. Since the friendliness, and safety, it is one of the top choices for family vacations.
If you are planning a holiday with your children to Vietnam and Indochina, please feel free to chat with our travel consultants or just email us to get further advice.
Traveling to Vietnam with kids is an unforgettable experience that will enrich your mind, body, and soul. You will discover a country that is full of natural wonders, cultural treasures, culinary delights, and friendly people. You will also learn about the history, the challenges, and the aspirations of this resilient nation.
But traveling to Vietnam with kids also comes with responsibilities. You need to respect the local customs, laws, and environment. You need to be mindful of your impact on the communities and the ecosystems. You need to support the local economy and the social causes. You need to travel with an open mind and a compassionate heart.
We hope this article has helped you plan your perfect family vacation in Vietnam. We hope you have an amazing time exploring this beautiful country with your loved ones. And we hope you live fully in Vietnam.
Then, Welcome to Vietnam!
Last updated on 2023-08-08 04:28:34.
