Vietnam is a country filled with natural beauty, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. It’s an ideal destination for families with kids looking to explore a new place and experience something different. From the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to the stunning beaches of Phu Quoc Island, there are plenty of activities that will captivate your family’s imagination.
Our family spent about two months slowly traveling Vietnam from Phu Quoc in the southernmost region to almost Hanoi in the north.
In this article, we’re going to share the highlights and the things to avoid when traveling to Vietnam with kids in hopes to give some direction when it comes to planning for your next family holiday to Vietnam.
Visit Vietnam with Kids in 2023
A Vietnam family holiday trip is relatively easy to do in 2023. Though the pandemic situation is still fluid as of the time of this writing nearly all of the covid restrictions have been loosened and entry is visa-free or a visa is easily obtained for citizens of most countries.
The culture and the attitude towards children are warm and welcoming. You’ll often spy bright cheery smiles and friendly hands extended toward your little ones.
This warm reception is perhaps what makes traveling to Vietnam with children so special and low-stress. We never felt that our kids, even on their worst days, were a bother to the locals. They received a friendly welcome everywhere they went-which removed so much parental stress!
Getting Around Vietnam with Kids
Vietnam is a densely populated country but interconnected, making it easy for families to explore by car, train, or plane. Roads and rails connect most major cities and flights are available to get between cities as well. Another great option if you want to skip the airport or train station is to hire a private car or van with a driver to transport you between cities.
To get around with kids in the major cities there are plenty of taxis but we found it much easier to use the Grab taxi service (like Uber). Since ride prices and pick-up/drop-off locations are pre-selected in the Grab app it requires less payment confusion and potential communication issues.
Where to Stay in Vietnam with Kids
Accommodations range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts, so there’s something for every budget.
We used Airbnb for our longer stays and Agoda or booking.com for the shorter ones. Make sure to check the reviews-especially from travelers with kids.
When selecting where to stay, try and find a place that has nearby access to food options. If you have picky eaters you’ll be glad to know that there are a surprising number of western restaurants like McDonald’s, KFC, and even Pizza Hut scattered throughout Vietnam.
Also, look for places with pools and/or ocean access as the heat can be overwhelming especially during the hot summer months. And if your kids are anything like mine, water = fun!
Kid-Friendly Food in Vietnam
When it comes to food, you will find something for everyone in Vietnam. From street food vendors and local restaurants to fancy rooftop dining – the options are endless! Many dishes are mild, but make sure to ask about spiciness since some dishes can bring the heat! Local favorites, such as pho noodle soup and banh mi sandwiches, are always a hit.
Besides the comfortable western food options, we quickly learned that our kids loved the fresh fruit smoothies, crepes, and icy desserts that we found around every corner.
Is Vietnam Safe for Kids?
Absolutely! Vietnam is a very safe and family-friendly country. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and crime rates are low. It’s important to note that certain areas of the country may be off-limits to travelers due to territorial disputes, so it’s wise to do your research before visiting.
As with any destination, it’s best to exercise basic safety precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. With a little bit of planning and common sense, families with kids can enjoy an unforgettable vacation in Vietnam.
In the spirit of full disclosure, we did have one incident while we were staying in Nha Trang though it wasn’t with the kids. Mindy was walking along the side of the road at night when two people on a scooter rode up from behind her and tried to snatch her phone. Luckily, she has a Loopy Case and it saved the day! Better luck next time snatchers!
Best Places to Visit with Kids in Vietnam
Vietnam is quite spread out so depending on how much time you have you may want to just focus on a few locations. Here is a brief overview of some of the top destinations in Vietnam for kids.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is an exciting and vibrant city, making it a great place for families to explore. With its bustling streets, delicious restaurants, and fascinating history, there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
The city also has numerous parks and gardens where kids can let off steam after a long day of sightseeing. Additionally, Ho Chi Minh City offers many kid-friendly attractions such as the Saigon Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
There are even amusement parks like Dam Sen Cultural Park that offer thrilling rides and fun activities for all ages! Whatever your family’s interests may be, Ho Chi Minh City is sure to provide something special during your visit.
Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is a great destination for families with kids looking for a relaxing beach vacation. It has the perfect combination of calm, turquoise waters and white sandy beaches that make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling and other water activities. Kids will love building sandcastles and exploring the shallow waters around the island. There is also a safari park, water parks and a cable car to explore.
For those looking for some culture and history, there are ancient villages in the north of the island where you can learn about traditional Vietnamese life.
You can also snorkel with literally thousands of starfish. There is definitely something for everyone in Phu Quoc!
Da Lat
Da Lat is a picturesque mountain town in the Central Highlands of Vietnam that offers an array of activities for families with kids. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Da Lat enjoys temperate weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relief from the hot summer months.
Kids will love exploring Da Lat’s many temples, markets and other attractions. Not to mention Da Lat’s beautiful countryside, with its stunning views of the rolling hills and lush valleys. Families can also take part in outdoor activities such as hiking and canyoneering-which is especially awesome in Da Lat. It’s a great place for kids to explore nature in all its glory!
Nha Trang
Nha Trang is an ideal destination for families with kids looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation. Located on the South Central Coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang offers breathtaking views of turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush mountains. Kids will love building sandcastles and exploring the shallow waters around the island, as well as thrilling water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
Nha Trang is also home to many kid-friendly attractions such as Vinpearl Land, an amusement park with a variety of rides, activities, and live shows. There are also cultural attractions such as the Po Nagar Cham Towers and Long Son Pagoda that make for a fascinating visit. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why Nha Trang is a popular destination for families with kids!
Da Nang
Often forgotten by international travelers Da Nang is the place that many Vietnamese go for vacation time. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Da Nang offers a wide variety of things to see and do.
Families with kids can also visit some of Da Nang’s many attractions, such as the Marble Mountains and Ba Na Hills Adventure Park. There are also cultural attractions like the Cham Museum and Lady Buddha that make for a fascinating visit.
There is also a dragon bridge that spits out fire and water every night. What kid wouldn’t want to see that!
Hoi An
Hoi An is an excellent travel destination for kids, providing endless opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Situated on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An is a breathtakingly beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of activities that are sure to keep kids entertained. With its charming historic buildings, colorful lanterns, and abundance of delicious restaurants, Hoi An is an ideal spot for families with kids.
Young ones will also love exploring the ancient town of Hoi An and its many temples, markets, and other attractions. There are even fun activities like lantern-making and kite flying that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids alike!
Hanoi
Hanoi is a vibrant and exciting city that offers families with kids plenty of fun and interesting activities. Kids will love exploring the city’s unique temples (often called pagodas). History buffs will also appreciate the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the bustling Old Quarter to French-colonial buildings such as the iconic Hanoi Opera House.
Hanoi is also a great place to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine. There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants around the city serving up delicious dishes such as phở and bánh mì.
Things to do in Vietnam with Kids
Vietnam is a vibrant and exciting country for families with kids. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation then Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, and Da Nang may be your best fit. If you’re after a cultural experience then Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Hoi An are great choices. Looking for an adventure in nature? Da Lat, Ha Long Bay will knock your socks off.
Here is a short list of the 18 best things to do in Vietnam with kids.
1. Visit the Marble Mountains in Da Nang.
2. Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter and other cultural attractions.
3. Enjoy a relaxing beach vacation in Nha Trang.
4. Visit the fire-breathing and water-spewing Dragon Bridge in Da Nang.
5. Take part in outdoor activities such as hiking or canyoneering in Da Lat.
6. Make lanterns at Hoi An’s night markets.
7. Tour the historic temples of Vietnam’s cities.
8. Try traditional Vietnamese cuisines such as phở bò or bánh mì.
9. Go to Vinpearl Land amusement park for rides, activities, and live shows.
10. Take a boat ride on the Mekong Delta.
11. Visit museums, art galleries, and other cultural sites such as Hue’s Imperial City or Hanoi’s Museum of Ethnology.
12. Explore national parks like Cúc Phương National Park or Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park.
13. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s history.
14. Go for an unforgettable boat ride along Halong Bay.
15. Take part in traditional festivals and celebrations such as Tết, the Lunar New Year holiday.
16. Walk on The Golden Hands Bridge in Da Nang.
17. Eat football-sized mangoes and snorkel with thousands of starfish in Phu Quoc.
18. Take a ride in the traditional fishing basket boats in Hoi An.
Hope this helps you narrow down which cities to visit for your Vietnam holiday vacation!
What Not to do in Vietnam with Kids
When traveling to Vietnam with kids, there are some important things to keep in mind. While the country offers plenty of activities and attractions for children, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards that can come along with travel. From cultural customs to health concerns, parents must take the necessary precautions when planning their trip. Here are a few things not to do in Vietnam with kids:
1. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent. Vietnam is a tropical country with high levels of UV radiation, so be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen for your kids when visiting the beach or other outdoor attractions. Mosquitoes can also carry diseases such as malaria and dengue fever in some areas, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent as well.
2. Don’t forget to check for travel advisories before you go. It’s important to research any possible safety or health concerns before your trip and make sure that you are up-to-date on all necessary vaccines and medications for your destination.
3. Don’t ignore cultural customs and traditions. Vietnam is a deeply traditional society, so it’s important to follow all local customs and be respectful of the country’s culture when traveling with kids.
4. Don’t forget to stay hydrated. With hot temperatures and high humidity levels in many parts of the country, it’s important to make sure that your kids remain hydrated during your travels.
5. When crossing the busy streets of Vietnam make sure to stay together as a group and walk slowly and steadily. Keep a hand on the kids and try to avoid running or any sudden movements.
What to Bring to Vietnam with Kids
Planning a family holiday in Vietnam? You’ll want to make sure you bring the right things for your kids. From sunscreen and mosquito repellent to comfortable clothing and plenty of snacks, some essential items will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here is a list of what to bring on your Vietnam vacation with kids.
1. Sunscreen and mosquito repellent: With hot, sunny days and plenty of mosquitoes, it’s important to bring plenty of both of these items for your kids.
2. Comfortable clothing: With its tropical climate, Vietnam can get quite hot in the summer months. Be sure to dress your kids in lightweight and breathable clothing that is appropriate for the local weather.
3. Snacks: Don’t forget to bring along some snacks for your kids in case they get hungry during long drives or flights.
4. Toys and entertainment: Bring travel-friendly toys, books, and other activities that will help keep your kids entertained on the go.
5. Travel documents: Don’t forget to bring passports, visas, and any other necessary travel documents for you and your family.
6. First aid kit: A basic first aid kit is always a good idea when traveling with kids. The kit should include pain relievers for children, antiseptic wipes, bandages, and any other necessary items.
7. Cash: Be sure to bring enough cash for your trip, as many places in Vietnam may not accept credit or debit cards.
Following these tips will help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable vacation with your kids in Vietnam.
Wrapping Up Traveling to Vietnam with Kids
Traveling with kids to Vietnam can be a great experience for the whole family. With plenty of activities, attractions, and culture to explore, it’s important to keep in mind that there are potential hazards and cultural customs that come along with visiting this destination. By following our tips on what not to do in Vietnam with kids as well as what items you should bring along on your trip, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable vacation for all. So pack up those sunscreen bottles, mosquito repellent sprays, comfortable clothing pieces, snacks, and travel documents – it’s time for an adventure!