Vietnam’s treasures, from marble mountains and island coves to imperial tombs and rickety trains, offer a touch of wonder and whimsy. Here’s a ten-day itinerary specially curated for families with children to discover the country’s natural beauty, history and culture
Punita Malhotra
Vietnam is a land of dragons and lanterns. Cradled between the jagged spine of the Annamite Mountains and the shimmering curve of the South China Sea, Vietnam shares a long land border of 4,550 km with China to the North, Laos and Cambodia to the West, and the Pacific Ocean to the East. Over the past quinquennium, this Southeast Asian country has become a tourism hotspot drawing over 18 million tourists annually to its scenic coastlines, rice terraces, ancient Buddhist temples and modern cities.
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam (pop.100 million), one of two officially communist countries in Southeast Asia (the other is Laos), was ruled by China for over a millennium (111-938 CE), during which it absorbed Chinese administrative systems, Buddhism, and Confucianism. A successful rebellion led by Ngô Quyền in 938 marked the beginning of independent Vietnamese dynastic rule. These dynasties repelled invasions, developed agriculture, literature, and governance, and laid the foundation of its national identity.
In the 19th century, Vietnam became a French colony. After World War II, nationalist leader Ho Chi Minh declared independence in 1945, leading to France’s famous defeat at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. This was followed by the Vietnam War (1955-1975), in which communist North Vietnam fought and defeated US-backed South Vietnam. The war ended with the fall of Saigon in 1975, unifying the country under communist rule. Since the 1990s, Vietnam has introduced several economic reforms, transforming it into one of Asia’s fastest-growing and prosperous economies.
For families with children, Vietnam offers something rare: a sensory journey where the past is tangible, nature is immersive, and culture is joyfully accessible. There’s the drama of street food crackling on open flames, the thrill of dodging riders on motorbikes, the calm of mist drifting over stepped rice terraces and the delight of lanterns glowing like fireflies over an old town river. Vietnam’s treasures, from marble mountains and island coves to imperial tombs and rickety trains, offer a touch of wonder and whimsy. Here is a ten-day itinerary specially curated for families with children to discover the country’s natural beauty, history and culture.
Hanoi (pop.8.4 million) is Vietnam’s bustling admin capital where centuries-old history blends seamlessly with modern chaos. The city’s Old Quarter buzzes with over 5 million motorbikes weaving through its maze-like alleys, while elegant French colonial villas — remnants of its time as the capital of French Indochina — stand behind wrought-iron gates. In contrast, the city’s modern districts such as Ba Đình and Mỹ Đình are dotted with glass-and-steel high-rises, luxury malls, and sleek office towers. Wide avenues and high-speed metro lines showcase the city’s evolution into an economic hub while rooftop bars and global brands coexist with sidewalk noodle stalls.
Start your exploration of Hanoi with a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, the city’s spiritual heart, where families stroll under ancient trees and locals practice tai chi at sunrise. The legend of the lake, where an emperor returned a magical sword to a golden turtle, makes for a lovely story to share with children. Nearby is Vietnam’s most delightful cultural tradition — the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Puppets dance, splash, and spar on a watery stage, accompanied by live musicians playing bamboo flutes and drums. Stories of mythical creatures and scenes from rural life unfold with humor and magic during the one-hour show. In the evening, wander through the French Quarter, where wide boulevards, yellow villas, and grand opera houses tell the city’s colonial past. This calmer part of Hanoi is perfect for a family dinner at one of the many leafy cafés.
The next morning, hop into a cyclo – a traditional three-wheel bicycle taxi — and ride through the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s commercial hub since the 13th century. This maze of 36 streets was once organized by guilds, each focused on a specific trade or profession. For instance, Hàng Bạc was known for silver, Hàng Gai for silk, and Hàng Mã ceremonial paper goods. Although modern shops have emerged, many family-run stores still preserve their original craft, making this district a living museum. For children, the Old Quarter is a charming treasure hunt, with tiny toy stalls, baskets of sweets, and embroidered dragon puppets peeking out from stores. Stop by for a warm banh mi filled with vegetables, egg or grilled chicken or cool off with a tall glass of freshly crushed sugarcane juice.
Next stop is the Temple of Literature. Built in the 11th century, it is Vietnam’s first university and honors legendary Chinese philosopher Confucius and generations of scholars. Stone turtles inscribed with the names of alumni line the walkways, and red-roofed pavilions stand beside lily ponds, flowering trees and bonsai plants.
Later, make your way to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where children can explore full-size tribal houses on stilts, longhouses made of bamboo, and ancient boats. The exhibits offer an engaging window into the cultures of over 50 ethnic communities in Vietnam. As night falls, the city turns into a giant open-air kitchen. Families gather on low stools beside glowing charcoal grills, slurping fragrant pho and sharing grilled meats dipped in chili-lime sauce. Hanoi is one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated street food capitals and I strongly recommend sampling the street fare, which is safe and appetizing.
A two-hour car drive from Hanoi takes you to Halong Bay. According to legend, Halong Bay was created after a dragon scattered jade across the sea to form its thousands of limestone islands. This mystical landscape, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is one of the country’s most iconic wonders, featuring jungle-topped karsts that rise from emerald waters. The best way to explore the bay is by spending a night or two on a traditional wooden junk boat or a small cruise boat. These graceful vessels glide past floating fishing villages, forested cliffs, and hidden coves. Many cruises are thoughtfully designed for children, featuring spacious family cabins, kid-friendly meals, and flexible itineraries that balance adventure and downtime.
During the day, children can paddle a kayak or hop into a bamboo boat with a local guide to discover Luon Cave, where monkeys cling to limestone ledges, and Sung Sot Cave, the bay’s largest and most dramatic grotto, filled with towering stalactites and echoing chambers. Some cruise boats also offer cooking sessions, squid fishing under the stars, tai chi classes, island hikes, and swimming off quiet beaches.
Drive back to Hanoi to catch a 90-minute flight to the coastal city of Da Nang, from where a 45-minute drive takes you to Hoi An, a riverside town. Once a thriving port on the Silk Road, Hoi An welcomed traders from China, Japan, and Europe. Remnants of that golden age can be seen in its tiled-roof houses, clan temples, and arched bridges.
Start your tour with a visit to the pedestrians-only Old Town. This Unesco World Heritage Site is famed for its lantern-lit streets, well-preserved architecture, and centuries-old blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and French influences. Wander through narrow alleys lined with ochre-colored buildings, ancient temples, wooden shophouses, and riverside cafés offering a timeless glimpse into Vietnam’s trading past. By night, the town glows with colorful silk lanterns, turning it into a magical, postcard-perfect scene.
As night falls, the banks of the Thu Bon River come alive with soft music, candlelight, and floating wishes. Buy a paper lantern from a local vendor, light a candle inside, and let your children release it onto the river. According to tradition, these drifting lights carry your wishes downstream. If you’re visiting on a full moon, the lantern festival transforms the city into a dreamscape of candlelit streets, folk games, and traditional performances, with all electric lights switched off for the evening.
Next day, escape the town’s cobbled lanes for its countryside, where water buffaloes graze near rice fields, and garden-fresh snacks are served under thatched roofs. Rent bicycles with child seats and cycle the gentle village roads that wind through paddy fields and palm groves. Many cycling tours include a stop at a local farm where children can water plants, harvest vegetables, or make rice paper. In nearby Cam Thanh Village, climb into a Vietnamese basket boat, a round woven vessel once used for fishing. A local guide will paddle you through the scenic nipa palm forests. Back in Hoi An, dive into its culinary heritage. Try local specialties like cao lầu — a noodle dish unique to this town — or white rose dumplings, delicately folded and topped with crispy shallots. By evening, the town glows again under a sky of swaying lanterns.
After the cultural charm of Hoi An, head north to Da Nang, a coastal city where modern cafés meet sandy shores and Buddhist sanctuaries quietly observe bustling streets. Start the morning at My Khe Beach, a vast, golden stretch that’s safe and clean, making it ideal for families. For a slice of local spirituality, embark on a short drive up to the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills dotted with caves, pagodas, and stone-carving workshops. In the afternoon, visit the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, which houses perhaps the finest collections of Cham art in Southeast Asia. Wrap up your day at the Dragon Bridge, an architectural marvel shaped like a golden dragon stretching across the Han River. On weekends and holidays, after 9 p.m, the dragon breathes fire and water in a spectacular show.
The following day, head to Ba Na Hills, once a French colonial hill station, now housing one of Vietnam’s most fantastical family attractions – the Golden Bridge. The journey begins with a cable car ride through tropical lowlands into cool mountain air, with misty valleys and waterfalls unfolding below. At the summit is the Golden Bridge, a stunning pedestrian bridge held aloft by two giant stone hands, seemingly emerging from the mountainside. Beyond the bridge lies Sun World Ba Na Hills, a theme park featuring gardens, funiculars, and a French-style village with cobblestone streets and castles.
Day 10-11: Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a 90-minute flight from Da Nang. Vietnam’s largest metropolis and economic powerhouse, Ho Chi Minh (pop. 9 million) is known for its energetic street life and endless motorbikes, offering visitors a dynamic, fast-paced glimpse into contemporary Vietnamese life.
Begin with a half-day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels located just outside the city. This underground network, once used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, offers children a fascinating history lesson. Explore narrow tunnels, peek through camouflaged trapdoors, and hear firsthand stories of life underground. Back in the city, take a walking or cyclo tour to the city’s architectural icons, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, and the Reunification Palace. End the day with a relaxed dinner in the leafy boulevards of District 1, where outdoor cafés and rooftop restaurants serve a mix of Vietnamese and international fare.
Dedicate your final day to child-friendly adventure activities. The Suoi Tien Cultural Theme Park is a unique amusement park themed around Vietnamese myths and Buddhist legends. Expect golden temples, dragon sculptures, and thrilling rides. Alternatively, Dam Sen Park offers a classic mix of water slides, gentle carnival rides, swan boats, and tree-shaded picnic areas — a local favorite.
Don’t miss out on some souvenir shopping. Ben Thanh Market is a vibrant maze of stalls selling a wide range of items, from embroidered áo dài and conical hats to toys, dried fruits, and Vietnamese coffee beans. If that feels too bustling, Takashimaya Mall, located inside Saigon Centre, offers a quieter, air-conditioned alternative with indoor play zones and child-friendly dining options. End your Vietnam adventure with a visit to Snow Town Saigon which brings winter magic to the tropics with indoor sledding, snowball fights, and faux-snow fun. Or, for something calmer, board a sunset dinner cruise on the Saigon River.
Shopping. All cities featured in this dispatch host thriving markets, which are a shopper’s delight. Ben Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Xuan in Hanoi, and the Night Market in Hoi An are treasure troves of hand-embroidered linens, lacquerware, bamboo toys, and aromatic spices. Air-conditioned malls such as Takashimaya in Saigon or Vincom Mega Mall in Hanoi offer a range of global brands, play zones, and family-friendly dining options.
Recommended hotels
Hanoi. Apricot Hotel — Rooftop pool, art-filled interiors, steps from Hoan Kiem Lake (US$ 110-150/night).
Halong Bay. Orchid Cruises — Spacious family suites with kayaking and cooking demos ($ 250-400 per night).
Hoi An. Almanity Wellness Resort — Daily spa treatments, children’s activities, and central location ($130-180 per night).
Da Nang. Furama Resort Danang — Beachfront property with kids’ club and water sports ($160-220 per night).
Ho Chi Minh City. Mai House Saigon — Elegant, family-friendly with pool and connecting rooms ($120-170 per night).
- $=Rs.86
Practical travel tips
- Baby strollers are suitable for urban areas, but a baby carrier is better for village paths and temple stairs.
- Always carry bottled water, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and hand wipes.
- The local cuisine is mild and adaptable. Pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and tropical fruits are safe foods for children.
- English is spoken in most tourist areas, but if in trouble, use Google Translate.
- Dress modestly at the temples and remove shoes when required.
- Pack warm clothing if heading to the highlands.