Why is Vietnam a great family holiday destination?
Vietnam is topping many families’ travel lists thanks to its great value for money. Some of the best activities, tours, and attractions in Vietnam are very affordable, making longer trips possible. You’ll discover that you can enjoy a comfortable family holiday without breaking the bank.
Vietnam is also known for its incredible variety of landscapes, from bustling cities and stunning beaches to remote mountains. No matter what kind of activities you’re looking for, there’s something that will fit the bill.
Is Vietnam suitable for kids?
Vietnam is a safe and welcoming destination for families of all ages. With a low crime rate and friendly locals, you can be sure that your family will feel safe during a holiday here.
There is a wide variety of kid-friendly attractions in Vietnam, and many activities suited to different age groups. From kayaking through the limestone caves of Halong Bay to seeing the water puppets in Hanoi, there are plenty of ways to keep kids entertained.
The locals are warm and friendly and always ready to help. In the cities, there are plenty of parks and playgrounds for kids to play in, while out in the countryside, you can explore nature trails or take a bike ride through some of Vietnam’s stunning scenery.
6 best places for a family holiday in Vietnam
Vietnam is a rather large country with a variety of different places to visit, so you’ll want to do some research before you decide on the best place or places for your family holiday.
Here are some of the top destinations for family holidays in Vietnam and a glimpse of their offerings.
Hoi An
This charming ancient city in Southern Vietnam is home to traditional architecture, quaint streets, and some of the best beach resorts in Vietnam.
Serving as a major trading port for centuries, Hoi An has experienced a multitude of international influences that have left it with a unique blend of cultures.
There are a lot of activities in Hoi An for kids, from pottery classes and cooking courses to sightseeing tours and boat rides.
The food offerings are unbeatable, with many seafood restaurants, local street food markets, and unique eateries. Don’t forget to try the Banh Mi, some of the best in all of Vietnam. And it is kid-friendly!
Danang, the Ba Na Hills Sun World amusement park, and the famous ‘Golden Hands’ Bridge are close to Hoi An and easy to visit as a day trip.
Hanoi
Most families head straight to the beach destinations for their Vietnam family holiday. But the capital city of Hanoi, located in Northern Vietnam, is a great option for families for at least part of their stay. Hanoi is a vibrant city full of culture, food, colourful craft shops, and unique attractions.
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, including water puppet shows, cooking classes, and visits to lakeside parks as well as historical sites such as the Temple of Literature.
You can also take day trips out to nearby rural villages such as Duong Lam and Bat Trang, or you can even jump on the night train to visit the rice fields and vibrant markets in Sapa.
Da Lat
Often left off the list of Vietnam family holiday destinations is the small mountain town of Da Lat, located in the south-central highlands. This is a beautiful mountain city surrounded by pine forests, lakes, and waterfalls – perfect for those looking for some peace and tranquillity.
Families staying here can visit the many nearby attractions such as Adventure Park in Cau Dat, Datanla Alpine Coaster, Tuyen Lam Lake, and the Bao Dai Summer Palace. Visit the historic Dalat Railway Station and take the kids for a ride on the train to Trai Mat.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous and have some older kids in tow, then check out the popular canyoning experiences complete with abseiling and zip lines down the canyon. It’s intense!
The Crazy House is a must-do to spark young imaginations. Exploring this whimsical property full of Dr. Suess-like architecture is a wonderfully bizarre and exciting way to spend an afternoon.
Da Lat is also known for its lush green golf courses, so if your family is keen on golf, then this is the perfect place to be. Plus, with its cooler climate and fresh mountain air, it’s a great escape from the city’s heat.
Phu Quoc Island
This giant island off the coast of Vietnam offers pristine beaches, rugged scenery, and more than enough activities to keep kids entertained.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities on Phu Quoc, such as taking a ride on the cable car, visiting aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries, an epic waterpark, or just simply enjoying the incredible beaches.
The island also has some great resorts with many amenities to keep your family happy. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, then there are several water sports options and boat trips available in the southernmost islands of Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of those unique destinations that will be an unforgettable deposit in your family’s memory bank. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an incredible natural wonder and a must-visit for any family holiday in Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay offers families plenty to do, from kayak trips through secluded lagoons, sightseeing tours of the limestone islands, and even swimming among the thousands of colourful fish.
The nearby town of Bai Chay is also a great spot for kids, where they can explore the bevy of souvenir shops and street markets, ride on the Ferris wheel, or even visit a mini amusement park.
See the best Halong Bay day and overnight trips from Hanoi, or explore Halong Bay alternatives such as Bai Tu Long Bay.
Vung Tau
Another great place for a beach holiday, Vung Tau is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City and is a nice choice for families. Here, you’ll find plenty of white sandy beaches, some nice cafes and restaurants, and lots of interesting activities.
Vung Tau offers many kid-friendly attractions, including an amazing amusement and water park with thrilling slides, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries, a cable car, boat trips, and even the oh-so-kid popular Upside Down House.
Tips for travelling with kids in Vietnam
Vietnam is a family-friendly holiday destination, but there are a few challenges and things you should know when travelling with kids in Vietnam.
Crossing the street
As with many destinations in Asia, crossing the street can be an adventure! Vietnam is no different, especially in the densely populated areas. Add in children, and it becomes even more complicated.
The best way to handle crossing the street is to have one parent take the lead. This parent should walk confidently yet slowly across the street, while the other parent follows with the kids in tow.
The sea of motorbikes will adjust and easily flow around you. Always try to maintain eye contact with drivers and avoid hesitating or running. Try to avoid walking in front of cars since it is more difficult for them to manoeuvre around you than a motorbike.
Medical care
It’s wise when travelling in Vietnam, especially with a family, to know where the best international hospitals are located. These hospitals will have staff who speak English and are better trained and equipped to care for foreign visitors.
Most of the international hospitals are located in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, but there are also a few in Da Nang, Hoi An, Ha Long City, and Phu Quoc.
Stomach sickness
Travellers’ diarrhea is a risk no matter where you go in the world, and it’s no different in Vietnam. To reduce the risk of getting sick, always drink bottled water (best for the planet to bring reusable bottle options since refill is available at most hotels) and avoid eating from street vendors or food stands that don’t appear to be clean.
You should also make sure your kids wash their hands often, especially before meals. It’s also a good idea to bring along some rehydration salts just in case your kids do end up ill.
Pharmacies
You won’t have to look too far to spot a pharmacy in Vietnam, as there are many located throughout the country. However, it’s best to stick to international pharmacies such as Pharmacity or Watson’s, whose staff should be able to speak English and understand your requests.
It’s also a good idea to bring along any medications that you may need while travelling in Vietnam with kids, just in case you can’t find what you need. Children’s Tylenol and ibuprofen can often be difficult to find.
Transportation
With different traffic rules (or rather lack of rules) in Vietnam, I wouldn’t recommend renting a self-driving car unless you have experience driving in this country. However, there are plenty of options when it comes to transportation in Vietnam.
For shorter distances, taking a Grab (Vietnam’s answer to Uber) or a taxi is usually the most convenient option. For longer distances, you can opt for a train or bus ride.
If you need extra space, then I would suggest booking a private car and driver, which will give you more freedom since you won’t have to worry about overcrowded spaces.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, keep your child safe by making sure they have their own seat and remain seated at all times while riding in a vehicle or on public transport. Additionally, be sure to bring along snacks and water for long rides.
General safety during a Vietnam family holiday
Vietnam is a safe destination for travelling with kids and is generally very family-friendly. As always, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy cities where pickpockets are known to target tourists.
Be sure to keep all valuables such as passports and electronics on you at all times and don’t leave them unattended.
Lastly, if your children get separated from you in a public place, make sure to have a plan. Keep children safe by making sure they know how to find a police officer or security guard for help.
Baby/toddler supplies
It is possible to find most of the items needed for a baby or toddler in Vietnam. However, you may find that the selection is limited or that some items are more expensive than in other countries.
If possible, it’s best to bring along enough of your supplies, such as nappies, formula, and baby wipes, to last the length of your stay.
Travelling in Vietnam with a stroller
Most of the streets and sidewalks in Vietnam are crowded and uneven. If possible, it’s best to leave the stroller at home and use a baby or toddler body carrier instead. If you do decide to bring a stroller along, make sure it is lightweight and foldable for easy transportation.
Accommodations
There are plenty of kid-friendly hotels in Vietnam offering a range of facilities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and even babysitting services. Homestays are a great experience in Vietnam, and many cater to families with kids.
