Planning a family vacation can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you're trying to find destinations that offer fun for both adults and children. Luckily, Vietnam is a treasure trove of experiences that cater to all ages. From its breathtaking landscapes to its vibrant cultural traditions, there’s no shortage of best things to do in Vietnam with kids. Whether your little ones are adventurous explorers or curious learners, Vietnam offers a mix of educational, interactive, and just plain fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

But is Vietnam really a good destination to travel with kids? Let’s explore how Vietnam caters to families and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular destination for those looking to create unforgettable memories with their children.

Things to do in Vietnam with kids

Family-friendly cooking classes

Cooking classes are a fantastic way for you and your kids to explore Vietnamese culture while getting hands-on with local ingredients. Not only do these classes introduce little ones to the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, but they also offer a fun, interactive experience that keeps kids engaged and learning.

Cooking classes in Vietnam are designed to be family-friendly, with instructors tailoring recipes and techniques to all ages. Children will love rolling spring rolls, mixing fresh herbs, and creating their very own Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes). Many classes also include a visit to the local market, where you can see and sometimes even choose fresh ingredients, making the experience even more interactive.

Imagine your child proudly presenting the meal they cooked with their own hands, that’s something you’ll never forget! Cooking together helps teach teamwork, creativity, and an appreciation for different cultures.

Recommended spots:

Hoi An is renowned for its cooking classes, where families can also explore Tra Que Village and pick fresh herbs.

Hanoi combines market tours with traditional Vietnamese recipes that kids can easily master.

Spend a night aboard a junk

One of the most magical things to do in Vietnam with kids is to spend a night aboard a traditional junk boat in either Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay. This family-friendly adventure offers a unique way to explore Vietnam's iconic limestone karsts while enjoying fun activities onboard.

Kids love the sense of adventure that comes with being on a boat, and junk cruises are filled with activities that keep young travelers entertained. From kayaking and swimming in crystal-clear waters to exploring hidden caves, the experience is both educational and thrilling. Many cruises also offer cooking demonstrations, squid fishing at night, and morning tai chi sessions – ensuring that there’s something for every age group.

Sleeping on a junk boat in the middle of a calm bay allows kids to connect with nature, while the gentle rocking of the boat makes for a peaceful night's sleep. The boat staff is typically very welcoming to families, and meals are designed with both local and international options to cater to everyone’s palates. Parents can relax and soak in the scenery while their little ones enjoy safe and exciting activities, making this one of the top family-friendly activities in Vietnam.

Ride a cyclo through the streets

One of the most enjoyable and best things to do in Vietnam with kids is taking a cyclo ride through the lively streets of Hanoi. These traditional bicycle rickshaws offer a slower pace for families to soak in the vibrant atmosphere without the rush of traffic.

Opting for this unique transportation method, you’ll also get a front-row seat to Vietnam's daily life. Your kids will love the novelty of sitting in a cozy, open carriage while a skilled cyclo driver pedals them through markets, past ancient temples, and down busy streets. The ride is safe, slow, and allows you to take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city at a relaxed pace. It’s a fun way for kids to experience Vietnam’s culture if you want a safer alternative to motorbike tours.

Cyclo rides are ideal for families because they provide a break from walking while still offering an immersive sightseeing experience. The whole family can enjoy this laid-back activity, which also doubles as a great way to snap some memorable photos.

Watch a water puppet show

A water puppet show is a must-see when considering best things to do in Vietnam with kids. This traditional Vietnamese art form brings mythical stories to life with wooden puppets "dancing" on water, accompanied by live folk music and singing.

Water puppet shows are colorful, engaging, and full of energy – a perfect entertainment option for children. Kids will be fascinated by the puppets' movements and the magical world they create, with tales of dragons, farmers, and ancient folklore. The shows are short enough to hold young attention spans, but filled with enough excitement to leave a lasting impression.

Since the performances are mostly visual, language barriers won’t be an issue. Plus, the live music and special effects, like splashing water and smoke, add to the thrill for kids of all ages. These shows take place in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, making them easy to fit into any family itinerary.

Take a bamboo basket boat ride

A bamboo basket boat ride is one of the most fun and family-friendly activities in Vietnam, especially in places like Hoi An and the Mekong Delta. These round, woven boats, called thuyen thung, are an iconic part of Vietnamese culture and offer a unique way to explore the country’s waterways.

Kids will surely love sitting in these quirky, round boats as they glide through coconut forests and mangroves. The ride itself can be an exciting adventure as the boatmen often spin the boats around in circles, creating a fun, carnival-like experience. Many tours even allow you to try rowing the boat yourself, making it an interactive and engaging experience.

The whole experience is safe and supervised, making it one of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids.

Enjoy a seaside stay

A seaside stay in one of Vietnam’s coastal towns, like Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc, is an excellent way for families to relax and enjoy beach time together. Vietnam's beaches are family-friendly, with calm waters, golden sands, and plenty of activities that will keep children entertained for hours.

Kids can spend the day swimming in the gentle surf, building sandcastles, or taking part in beach sports like volleyball and paddleboarding. Many resorts offer kids' clubs, where younger children can engage in arts and crafts, games, and activities with other kids while parents unwind by the pool. Some seaside destinations also offer snorkeling trips, where your family can safely explore vibrant coral reefs and spot colorful fish.

A beach vacation is not only about relaxation but also offers opportunities for adventure, like boat trips to nearby islands or visits to fishing villages, making it one of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids.

Join a workshop with a local artisan

One of the most enriching things to do in Vietnam with kids is to participate in a workshop with a local artisan. From pottery-making in Bat Trang Village to lantern crafting in Hoi An, these hands-on experiences allow children to get creative while learning about traditional Vietnamese crafts.

Workshops are interactive, fun, and designed to keep kids engaged from start to finish. Whether they’re molding clay into a small pot or painting a lantern, children can use their imagination while learning a new skill. Most workshops are tailored to families, ensuring that people of all ages can participate.

Not only do these workshops offer a chance to create something special to take home, but they also teach you about the cultural significance of these crafts. The personalized nature of these experiences makes them one of the top family-friendly activities in Vietnam.

Spend the night at a homestay

Spending a night at a homestay is an immersive experience that offers a deeper connection to Vietnam’s culture, making it one of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids. Whether in the rice terraces of Sapa, or the stilt houses of Mai Chau, homestays offer families a chance to experience rural life up close.

Staying in a homestay introduces kids to a simpler way of life, where they can interact with local families, learn about traditional customs, and even help with daily activities like cooking or farming. The warm hospitality makes children feel welcome, and they’ll have the chance to explore the countryside, try local foods, and perhaps even learn a few Vietnamese phrases.

Homestays often include guided hikes, visits to local markets, and opportunities to learn about indigenous cultures. It’s a great way for families to bond and create lasting memories in an environment that is both educational and fun for kids.

Visit an ethnic market

One of the most culturally immersive things to do in Vietnam with kids is to visit an ethnic market in regions like Sapa, Bac Ha, or Dong Van. These vibrant markets are often held weekly and showcase the rich diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, offering a sensory experience filled with colorful textiles, fresh produce, and handmade crafts.

Kids will be fascinated by the lively atmosphere, from the brightly colored traditional clothing of local hill tribes to the bustling stalls filled with exotic fruits, livestock, and local delicacies. It’s a great opportunity for children to learn about different cultures and see firsthand how ethnic communities in Vietnam trade and interact.

Many vendors are friendly and welcoming to families, and kids might even get a chance to try out simple bartering or sample unusual snacks. The visual spectacle of the market makes it an exciting experience for kids, and the chance to pick out unique souvenirs adds an element of fun. Note that these markets often operate from early morning to noon, so make sure to get up a bit early to make the most of the experience! Check with your local guide or host family to know what market is available the day you’re visiting !

Trekking in Vietnam

Trekking through Vietnam’s beautiful landscapes is not only a popular activity for adventurous travelers but also one of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids. Destinations like Sapa, Pu Luong, Mai Chau, and Cat Tien National Park offer family-friendly treks that let kids experience the country's natural beauty up close.

Trekking in Vietnam allows kids to explore lush rice terraces, bamboo forests, and scenic valleys while enjoying the great outdoors. Many trekking routes are suitable for families, offering easy-to-moderate paths that are safe and manageable for children. Along the way, kids can learn about local flora and fauna, visit remote villages, and even spot wildlife.

Guided treks often include breaks at small villages where kids can interact with local families, making the experience both educational and culturally enriching. The sense of adventure and accomplishment kids feel after completing a trek makes this activity one of the top family-friendly adventures in Vietnam.

Where to stay in Vietnam with your family

Vietnam offers a range of accommodations that cater to families. Here are some of the best places to stay with kids in Vietnam:

City Hotels in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

If your family prefers the convenience of staying in the city, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City boast a wide range of family-friendly hotels, from budget to luxury. These urban accommodations often offer interconnected rooms, babysitting services, and easy access to popular attractions like parks and museums.

Recommended Stay in Hanoi and in Ho Chi Minh: 

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi – This historic luxury hotel offers family suites, a heated swimming pool, and easy access to key city attractions like the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Windsor Plaza Hotel – This 5-star family-friendly hotel features a range of amenities from a spa, a rooftop pool, to a kid's club.

Family-Friendly Cruises in Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay

For a unique family adventure, consider staying overnight on a cruise in Halong Bay or Lan Ha Bay. Many cruises are designed with families in mind, offering cabins large enough for children, onboard activities like squid fishing and kayaking, and delicious meals catering to different tastes.

Recommended Stay in Halong and in Lan Ha Bay 

Peony Cruise – A premium cruise with family-friendly cabins, kayaking tours, and an onboard chef who can prepare kid-friendly meals.

Beach Resorts in Da Nang and Nha Trang

For families looking to combine relaxation with adventure, Da Nang and Nha Trang offer some of the best family-friendly resorts in Vietnam. These coastal cities are home to luxurious beachside resorts that provide spacious rooms, kids' clubs, swimming pools, and activities like beach volleyball and snorkeling trips.

Recommended Stay in Danang and Nha trang

Vinpearl Resort Nha Trang – With its close proximity to Vinpearl's massive water park and Nha Trang's beautiful beaches, this resort is a hit with families.

Homestays in Sapa and Mai Chau

For a more immersive cultural experience, staying at a homestay in places like Sapa or Mai Chau is ideal for families who want to experience rural Vietnam. Kids can learn about local customs, interact with ethnic minority families, and even take part in daily activities like farming and cooking.

Recommended Stay in Sapa and Mai Chau 

Mai Chau Ecolodge – This eco-friendly lodge offers comfortable, family-sized bungalows, stunning views of the rice terraces, and plenty of activities for kids like bike rides and hiking.

Tips for traveling to Vietnam with kids

Plan ahead to Vietnam

Vietnam is an interesting country, there's a lot to see and do. So it's important to plan your itinerary in advance according to your family's interests. This will help you maximize your time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Be prepared for the weather

The climate in Vietnam can vary according to region and season. Be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and prepare accordingly. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, light clothing, and a raincoat if you're traveling during the rainy season.

Be respectful of local customs

Vietnam is a country with a unique culture and customs. There are bound to be things to do and things to avoid. Be sure to learn about local customs and respect them. For example, it's advisable to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and religious sites. 

Try the local food

Vietnamese cuisine is delicious and varied. Try local dishes such as pho, spring rolls, and banh mi. If you're traveling with fussy children, there are Western options available in major cities, but don't hesitate to encourage your family to try local dishes. 

Stay safe

As with any travel destination, it's important to stay safe in Vietnam. Avoid dark, deserted streets at night and keep an eye on your valuables. Also, be sure to take the necessary road safety precautions if you plan to rent a car or travel by scooter.

Be prepared to negotiate

Prices in Vietnam can be negotiable, especially in markets and small stores. Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, but bear in mind that locals earn their living from selling products and services, so be respectful when negotiating.

Conclusion

Vietnam offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for families with kids. The country’s warm hospitality and family-friendly atmosphere ensure that both parents and kids can enjoy their time together without stress.

To make the most of your family vacation in Vietnam, why not let the experts take care of the details? Our specially curated tours are designed to include activities that suit all ages, ensuring a smooth, fun-filled experience from start to finish. Whether it's a homestay in the countryside or an exciting night aboard a junk boat in Lan Ha Bay, we’ll handle everything – so you can focus on making memories with your loved ones.

Ready to explore Vietnam with your family ? Book a tour with Vietnam Original Travel today, and let’s create an unforgettable adventure tailored just for you!

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