If you're looking for a family-friendly destination that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, you're in the right place. Why not try Vietnam for your next family holiday? Vietnam may not be the first destination that pops up in your mind, but let us tell you, this country has something for everyone. From beautiful nature to exciting activities that both children and parents can enjoy together, Vietnam offers tons of experiences that will keep the whole family happy. In this article, we will take you through the top 10 destinations for a Vietnam holiday with children, with ideas on what to do, when to visit, and why each place is perfect for families.

Why Go All The Way to Vietnam For a Family Holiday?

Vietnam is a wonderful destination for a family holiday. It combines exciting experiences, stunning scenery, and a warm culture that makes children feel welcome. The country offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for both young explorers and parents looking to unwind.

One of the best reasons to travel to Vietnam with your children is the unique activities you can enjoy together. Whether it's making traditional lanterns in Hoi An, riding a cyclo through the bustling streets of Hanoi, or watching water puppet shows, Vietnam offers experiences that children can’t find anywhere else.

The stunning scenery also makes the journey unforgettable. From the limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the peaceful rice fields of Mai Chau, every place offers something new to discover. Children will love exploring nature, especially in places like Tram Chim or Tra Su Forest, where they can see animals up close.

Vietnamese food is another highlight. The flavors are fresh, light, and often very kid-friendly. Dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi are perfect for little appetites. If your child is curious about cooking, you can even take part in cooking classes to learn how to make local dishes.

Another great advantage is that Vietnam is affordable compared to many other family destinations. You can enjoy comfortable accommodation, delicious food, and exciting activities without spending too much. Plus, citizens from certain countries (like the UK and several European countries) can enter Vietnam without a visa for stays of up to 45 days, which makes planning easier.

Above all, Vietnamese people are friendly and welcoming, especially toward children. Don’t be surprised if locals smile, offer small gifts, or want to chat with your little ones—it’s part of the culture!

Top 10 Destinations For A Vietnam Holiday With Children

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city, is full of exciting activities that can entertain both adults and children. Start by visiting Bat Trang, a famous pottery village just outside the city. Here, your kids can try making their own ceramic creations with the help of local artisans.

Taking a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter is another fun experience. These three-wheeled bicycles let you explore the narrow streets without walking too much. Your children will love seeing the busy markets and small shops up close.

Don't miss the chance to see a water puppet show. This traditional Vietnamese performance tells folk stories with wooden puppets dancing on water. It’s colorful, lively, and perfect for children. Another unique activity is watching how toy figurines, or tò he, are made. These small, colorful figures made from rice powder are not only fun to watch but also safe for children to play with.

The best time to visit Hanoi is from October to April, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Mai Chau

If you're looking for a peaceful place away from the busy cities, Mai Chau is an excellent choice. This green valley surrounded by mountains offers both relaxation and cultural discovery.

Cycling through the rice fields is one of the best ways to explore the area. You can ride along small paths, passing stilt houses and friendly local villagers. Walking tours are another option, allowing you to visit small ethnic villages like Lac or Pom Coong. These walks give your children a glimpse into the simple life of the Thai ethnic group.

Mai Chau is also known for its brocade weaving. The women in the villages weave colorful fabrics by hand, and your family can try weaving under their guidance.

If you’re staying at a homestay, the host will treat you with a home-cooked meal and a traditional Thai performance. Locals perform folk dances and music in their colorful costumes, and the show often ends with a friendly bamboo dance where everyone can join in.

The best time to visit Mai Chau is from March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and the rice fields are at their most beautiful.

Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is a peaceful destination perfect for families looking to escape the busy cities. The stunning landscapes of limestone mountains, green rice fields, and winding rivers create a relaxing atmosphere. Children can enjoy the fresh air while discovering nature in a fun way.

One of the best places to visit in Ninh Binh is Thung Nham Bird Park. This ecological area is home to many bird species, especially storks. You can take a boat ride through the calm waterways while watching birds flying around the trees. The peaceful scenery will make both parents and children feel close to nature.

Another exciting experience is riding a bullock cart through the countryside. This traditional way of transportation will make your kids feel like they're stepping back in time. The slow ride through small villages and green fields gives them a chance to enjoy the scenery and learn more about rural life.

Boat trips in Tam Coc or Trang An are also great for families. Sitting on a small rowing boat, you'll glide through caves and along the river while surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The best time to visit Ninh Binh is from March to May or September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their greenest. If you want to visit the bird park, plan your trip from August to October or from January to March.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is one of the most famous places in Vietnam and a perfect destination for families. The bay is home to emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands. Children will love the adventure of exploring caves, islands, and hidden beaches.

A cruise trip is the best way to discover Halong Bay. Many cruises offer family-friendly activities like kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing. Watching the sunset on the deck or simply enjoying the gentle breeze will be a relaxing experience for both kids and parents.

Don't miss visiting Sung Sot Cave or Thien Cung Cave. These caves are full of impressive rock formations that will spark your imagination. You can also spend time on Titop Island, where kids can play on the sandy beach or climb to the top of the hill for a stunning view of the bay.

The best time to visit Halong Bay is from September to October or from March to April, when the weather is cool and dry.

Hue

Hue is a wonderful place to experience Vietnam's traditional culture with children. This ancient city offers peaceful surroundings and hands-on activities that will keep your little ones entertained. One of the best activities for families is visiting a kite-making village. Hue is famous for its beautiful handmade kites, painted with bright colors. You and your children can watch how the artisans carefully craft the kites and even try making one yourselves. Once the kites are ready, the best part is flying them in the open fields—a simple joy that brings families together.

Another interesting experience is learning how to make paper flowers in Thanh Tien Village. This traditional craft represents the beauty of Hue and is often used to decorate altars during festivals. Local artisans will guide you through the process, letting you create your own colorful flowers to take home as a special souvenir.

Hue is best to visit from February to April when the weather is warm and dry. If you visit in spring or during festivals like Tet, you'll see the city at its most vibrant.

Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Vietnam. Its charming streets, colorful buildings, and peaceful atmosphere make it perfect for a holiday with children. What makes Hoi An truly special is its wide range of craft activities where kids can unleash their creativity.

A must-try experience is making lanterns. Hoi An is famous for its glowing lanterns, especially during the monthly lantern festival. You and your children can join a workshop, where friendly artisans will teach you how to make a lantern from bamboo and silk. The finished lanterns make perfect souvenirs and will always remind you of your trip.

Another memorable activity is releasing lanterns on the Thu Bon River in the evening. Children will love writing their wishes on small paper lanterns before letting them float on the water—a magical moment that lights up the night.

Hoi An also offers toy figurine (tò he) making workshops. These small figurines are made from colorful rice powder and shaped into animals or cartoon characters. It’s a fun activity that allows children to play while learning about traditional Vietnamese toys.

Don't miss a visit to Thanh Ha pottery village, where your family can learn how to shape clay into small cups, bowls, or animals. The village is peaceful, and the locals are always happy to share their craft with visitors.

The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is pleasant.

Ho Chi Minh City – Can Gio

Ho Chi Minh City is a lively and modern destination, but it also offers fun adventures for children. One of the most exciting things to do on your Vietnam holiday with children is to take a day trip to Can Gio, a lush mangrove forest about two hours away. This UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve is perfect for families who love nature and animals.

Children will be thrilled to see monkeys roaming freely around the park. The playful monkeys can be cheeky, so make sure to hold on to your belongings. Another highlight is visiting the crocodile farm, where you can safely observe these ancient creatures from wooden walkways. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even join a small boat tour to see crocodiles in the water.

The best time for a Can Gio day trip is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is dry and the trails are easy to walk. Visiting Can Gio is a great way to balance city sightseeing with a day of outdoor exploration.

My Tho - Ben Tre

A family trip to the Mekong Delta is a perfect escape from the busy cities. The towns of My Tho and Ben Tre are only a couple of hours from Ho Chi Minh City, making them an easy day trip for families. These peaceful areas are famous for their rivers, coconut groves, and friendly locals.

One of the most exciting stops is the Dong Tam Snake Farm, where children can learn about different types of snakes, turtles, and other reptiles. The farm is educational but not too scary, and the guides are happy to share interesting facts about the animals.

A boat trip along the small canals of Ben Tre is another highlight. You and your children can sit on a wooden boat and glide through the water, surrounded by coconut trees. Along the way, you'll stop at local workshops to see how people make coconut candy and other handicrafts. Children can try their hand at making small souvenirs or taste fresh coconut candy straight from the factory.

The best time to visit My Tho and Ben Tre is from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny. This trip gives children a chance to experience the peaceful rhythm of life in the Mekong Delta.

Tram Chim National Park and Tra Su Cajeput Forest

For families who love nature and wildlife, Tram Chim National Park and Tra Su Forest in the Mekong Delta are fantastic places to visit. These peaceful areas are full of green landscapes, calm waterways, and many birds and animals.

Tram Chim National Park is a large wetland that is home to hundreds of bird species, including the rare red-crowned crane. The best way to explore the area is by boat, slowly gliding through the water while spotting birds in the trees and skies. This is a great experience for children who enjoy wildlife and want to see nature up close.

Not far away is Tra Su Cajeput Forest, a beautiful flooded forest with tall cajeput trees. Here, you can take a small boat ride along narrow canals covered with green water plants. The peaceful atmosphere and the sound of birds make this trip unforgettable. Children can also climb a watchtower to get a panoramic view of the forest.

The best time to visit these places is during the dry season from November to April, when the water is clear and the weather is pleasant.

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is an ideal destination for a beach holiday with children. The island has soft sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters, and plenty of family-friendly activities. For a little adventure, you can take a boat trip to the small islands nearby, where you can snorkel and see colorful marine life.

A visit to a pepper farm can be both fun and educational. Children can learn how pepper is grown and even try picking a few fresh peppercorns. Don't miss the VinWonders Phu Quoc theme park, which has exciting rides, water slides, and an aquarium. It's a perfect way to spend a fun day with the whole family.

The best time to visit Phu Quoc is from November to March, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm.

Tips For A Vietnam Holiday With Children

Planning a family holiday to Vietnam can be easy if you prepare well. Here are some tips to make the trip smoother:

Choose the right season: The best time to visit Vietnam with children is during the dry season (from October to April), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable.

Pack wisely:Bring lightweight clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small first aid kit. Don’t forget hats and swimwear if you plan to visit the beach!

Take it slow: Vietnam is a long country, so avoid trying to visit too many places in a short time. Focus on a few destinations to give your family time to enjoy each one.

Try local food: Vietnamese cuisine is generally not too spicy and has many dishes that kids will enjoy. However, always check if street food is freshly cooked.

Stay in family-friendly accommodations: Many hotels and homestays offer family rooms, swimming pools, and even special activities for children.

Conclusion

Vietnam is a fantastic destination for families looking for fun, culture, and adventure. With so many unique activities and breathtaking landscapes, your children will have the chance to explore a whole new world while creating unforgettable memories. The warmth of the Vietnamese people and the variety of experiences make this country an ideal choice for a family holiday. If you've chosen your next visit in the top 10 destinations for a Vietnam holiday with children, don't hesitate to book a tour and start planning your next adventure. We would love to help you create the perfect family journey! 

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