9 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam with Kids for Perfect Family Holidays

Why Choose Vietnam for Family Holidays with Kids?

Vietnam’s natural beauty, engaging activities, educational experiences, delicious food, and affordability make it one of the best places to go with kids.

Beautiful natural landscapes

Vietnam boasts stunning natural landscapes that can captivate your family with beauty and diversity. The pristine beaches in Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc are perfect for family relaxation and water activities, providing endless fun for your kids.

Meanwhile, the terraced rice fields in Northern Vietnam offer a scenic beauty that is both educational and mesmerizing. Your family can also marvel at the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay or Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park while enjoying the stunning landscape.

Down south, the lush scenery of the Mekong Delta offers a serene backdrop for river tours and agricultural excursions, creating unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Family-friendly activities

Vietnam is rich in family-friendly activities that cater to children of all ages, whether your kids are tweens or teens. Theme parks in beach cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang offer a variety of rides, games, and attractions, ensuring entertainment for the whole family.

The beautiful countryside in Vietnam offers opportunities for cycling and exploring rural life. If your family has an adventurous soul, why not explore the caves of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park? This can be an exciting and educational experience for everyone.

Enjoying unforgettable family-friendly activities in the countryside of Vietnam.

Excellent value for money

Vietnam is known for its affordability, making it one of the most inexpensive places to travel for families. With affordable accommodation, food, and transportation, your family can enjoy a high-quality vacation that covers everything possible without breaking the bank.

Here, many attractions may offer family packages and discounts, further increasing the value for money and making Vietnam an even more attractive destination for family holidays.

Educational opportunities

Vietnam’s history and cultural depth can provide countless educational opportunities for your family. The ancient temples, colonial architecture, and museums in cities like Ha Noi, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City offer rich cultural experiences.

Visiting historical sites and learning about Vietnam’s history can be among some of the best family-friendly activities for your children, enhancing their understanding of the world.

Delicious and accessible cuisine

Vietnamese food is delicious, accessible, and often well-liked by many children. Popular Vietnamese dishes like Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (sandwich), and fresh spring rolls are healthy, tasty, and available almost everywhere in every city across the country.

In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, family-friendly cooking classes are open, allowing your family to learn about and enjoy Vietnamese food together in a fun and interactive setting.

9 Best Places to Go in Vietnam with Kids on Your Family Holidays

Vietnam has a lot of family-friendly activities and fun things to do with kids. So, where should you go on vacation with kids in Vietnam? Cherish every moment and create lasting memories together with your loved ones in the following kid-friendly places to visit:

1. Water Puppet Theater & The Old Quarter, Ha Noi

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Ha Noi is a unique cultural experience that can captivate both you and your children. Located in the heart of Ha Noi, near Hoan Kiem Lake, this traditional art form involves wooden puppets dancing on water, depicting Vietnamese folklore and historical tales accompanied by live music. This is surely an entertaining way to introduce your kids to Vietnamese culture and history in an engaging format.

The Old Quarter, 5 minutes walk from the theater, offers a maze of ancient streets bustling with life. Your family can explore markets, sample street food, and visit historic sites dotted in this area. The lively atmosphere, combined with the historical charm of ancient houses and local crafts, makes the Old Quarter a fascinating experience for everyone.

Water puppetry depicts Vietnamese folklore and historical tales accompanied by live music.

2. Boat rides & cruises, Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is famous for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. Boat rides and cruises here are perfect for families, offering breathtaking scenery and various activities. Day cruises and overnight trips often include kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves, providing plenty of excitement for your children.

The calm waters of Ha Long Bay make boat rides safe and enjoyable for all ages. On board, families can enjoy delicious meals, relax on the deck, and participate in activities like squid fishing. The mystical landscape of Ha Long Bay, with its dramatic karst formations, makes it not only a natural wonder but also an adventure for your kids to remember.

The calm waters of Ha Long Bay make boat rides safe and enjoyable for all ages.

3. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Quang Binh

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quang Binh Province, is renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and extensive cave systems.

The park offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including wildlife spotting, hiking, and exploring a range of mysterious caves. Guided tours are readily available, making any trip to Phong Nha-Ke Bang an educational experience.

One of the best things to do with kids when your family is in Quang Binh or Phong Nha-Ke Bang is going on the Phong Nha - Ke Bang National Park Tour and Tu Lan Family Adventure Tour with Oxalis Adventure. This allows both your children and yourself to connect with and enjoy the natural landscape in Tu Lan. If your family is more interested in watersports and camping activities, visiting Chay Lap Farmstay and Blue Diamond Camp is also a good option for both adventure and relaxation.

Quang Binh Province forest's diverse ecosystem also provides opportunities for learning about nature. Imagine your kids getting to know about new plants and how wildlife here works, all while exploring magnificent caves, trekking through jungles, and wading cool streams.

Visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang allows children and parents to connect with and enjoy the natural landscape.

4. Asia Park & Ba Na Hills, Da Nang

Asia Park Da Nang is a huge amusement park with lots of places for kids to play, like rides, games, and attractions suitable for all ages. It includes the giant Sun Wheel, roller coasters, and cultural zones representing different Asian countries. Asia Park Da Nang offers a full day of entertainment, with plenty of options for young children and teenagers.

Ba Na Hills Da Nang is another family-friendly destination in Vietnam known for its French Village, beautiful gardens, and the iconic Golden Bridge. The cable car ride to the top is an adventure in itself, offering spectacular views. At the summit, your family can explore Fantasy Park, an indoor amusement area with rides and games.

The Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills Da Nang is an attractive destination for families with kids.

5. Night market & Lantern boat ride, Hoi An

Hoi An’s Night Market, located in the heart of the ancient town, is a vibrant hub of activity and color. This market comes alive in the evening, offering a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food that will delight both children and parents. Walking through the bustling stalls, your family can sample traditional Vietnamese dishes, pick up unique mementos, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Hoi An is the lantern boat ride on the Thu Bon River. As night falls, the river lights up with thousands of colorful lanterns floating on the water, creating a magical scene. Your family can hire a small boat to release your own lanterns and make a wish, a tradition that your kids definitely find enchanting. The serene boat ride, coupled with the stunning lantern display, provides a peaceful and memorable experience for everyone.

Walking through the bustling stalls in Hoi An, your family can enjoy the lively atmosphere.

6. National Oceanographic Museum & VinWonders, Nha Trang

The National Oceanographic Museum in Nha Trang is a fascinating destination for families interested in marine life. Located near Nha Trang Bay, this museum houses an extensive collection of marine specimens and aquariums showcasing the diverse underwater world of Vietnam. Your kids will be enthralled by the colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures, while informative exhibits provide educational insights into marine biology.

VinWonders, also in Nha Trang, is one of the best amusement parks in Vietnam, situated on Hon Tre Island. Accessible by a scenic cable car ride over the sea or high-speed boat from the city, this park features a wide array of attractions, including water slides, roller coasters, an aquarium, and live shows. As one of the best destinations for families, VinWonders offers entertainment for all ages, ensuring a day full of fun and excitement.

The National Oceanographic Museum in Nha Trang is a great destination for families interested in marine life.

7. Jeep Tours & Red Sand Dunes, Mui Ne

Mui Ne, a coastal town known for its beautiful ocean vista, offers exciting jeep tours that take families on an adventure through stunning surroundings. These tours typically include visits to the Red Sand Dunes, White Sand Dunes, and the Fairy Stream. Riding in an open jeep, your kids will love the feeling of adventure and the chance to explore different terrains.

The Red Sand Dunes are a particular highlight, offering a unique desert-like landscape with reddish-brown sand. Your family can rent sandboards and slide down the dunes, a thrilling activity that children especially enjoy. The scenic views and the opportunity to play in the sand make it a fun outing for the entire family. Don’t forget to take some impressive photos with the sand dune in the background to make lasting memories.

The Red Sand Dunes in Mui Ne offers a unique desert-like landscape with reddish-brown sand.

8. Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City

The Cu Chi Tunnels, about 60 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, are an extensive network of underground tunnels used by the resistance army during the Vietnam War. This historical site offers your family a chance to learn about Vietnam’s war history through an immersive experience. Guided tours provide insights into the tunnel systems, showing how they were used for living quarters, hospitals, and communication routes.

Your kids can try crawling through the safer, enlarged sections of the Cu Chi Tunnels. This experience gives them a hands-on history lesson. The site also features displays of wartime relics and educational exhibits. While it can be a sobering experience, it’s highly educational, giving your children and yourself a real sense of Vietnam’s history and resilience.

Guided tours in Cu Chi provide insights into the tunnel systems, showing how they were used during the war.

9. Vinpearl Safari, Phu Quoc

Vinpearl Safari on Phu Quoc Island is Vietnam’s first and largest semi-wild animal care and conservation park, making it a fantastic place for kids to play. This place is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world, including rare and endangered species. Here, your family can explore the zoo exhibits and an open safari where animals roam freely.

Take a bus tour through the safari zone and get close encounters with animals like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Vinpearl Safari also features a unique program called the Junior Zoo Keeper, which teaches kids about animal behavior while allowing them to pet the adorable furry friends that come from the wild. Combined with Phu Quoc’s beautiful beaches and resorts, a visit to Vinpearl Safari adds a memorable trip to any family holiday.

Vinpearl Safari is a fantastic place for kids to play as it is home to over 3,000 animals from around the world.

Tips for Vietnam Family Holidays with Kids

Follow the tips below to ensure your family trip to Vietnam is safe, enjoyable, and filled with enriching experiences and lasting memories.

- Plan ahead:

When traveling with kids in Vietnam, planning ahead is crucial. Start by researching destinations that offer activities catering to your children’s preferences, whether they’re interested in beaches, theme parks, or educational attractions.

Booking accommodations in advance is essential; look for kid-friendly hotels that provide necessary amenities like cribs, extra beds, and childproofing. This ensures a comfortable stay and minimizes last-minute stress. Also, plan your itinerary to include a mix of activities that are engaging for children and allow for downtime to rest and recharge.

- Health and safety:

Health and safety are top priorities when traveling with kids. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers health issues, cancellations, and lost items to safeguard your trip.

Carry bottled water to keep everyone hydrated, as Vietnam’s weather is hot and humid all year round in some regions. Protect your family from the sun by packing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Always bring mosquito repellent, as some areas may have insects that could cause discomfort. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital or clinic in case of any medical emergencies.

- Pack wisely:

Packing properly can make traveling with kids smoother and more enjoyable. Bring essential items such as diapers, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a first-aid kit. These are crucial for maintaining hygiene and addressing minor injuries or illnesses.

Pack familiar comfort items for your kids, like their favorite toys, blankets, or books, to help them feel at home. Given Vietnam’s varying climate, pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot weather in Southern Vietnam and some layers if you’re staying in Northern Vietnam. Don’t forget to pack swimwear and beach gear if you plan to visit coastal areas.

- Food and snacks:

Food can be a concern when traveling with kids, especially if your kids are picky eaters. Bring familiar snacks from home to ensure your children have something they like.

During your stay in Vietnam, introduce local foods to your kids gradually, starting with dishes that are easy to get familiar with, like Pho and Banh Mi. These dishes are generally well-liked by children and can be a fun way to experience Vietnamese food. Also, many cities offer kid-friendly restaurants where you can find a variety of dishes to suit all tastes.

- Transportation:

Transportation logistics are important when traveling with kids. If you have young kids, bring a portable car seat or check if your car rental service provides them. This ensures safety and comfort during car journeys. For long bus or train rides, bring activities like coloring books, tablets, or travel games to keep your kids entertained and make the journey more pleasant.

Vietnam’s traffic can be super busy, with vehicles bustling on the streets, so always keep an eye on your children and make sure they stay close to your reach in crowded places.

The Oxalis Experience.