Best Places for Families to Travel in Vietnam

Vietnam is a vibrant country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities, making it an excellent destination for families traveling with kids. From the historical streets of Hanoi to the sandy beaches of Nha Trang, there's a diverse range of experiences awaiting families. When planning your trip, consider the time of year, as the climate can vary significantly from north to south. The dry season, typically from November to April, is generally the best time to visit. To save on costs, look for family-friendly accommodations that offer discounts for children and consider street food for authentic and affordable meal options.

Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where ancient history and modern times converge. Families can explore the Old Quarter, with its narrow streets and traditional shop houses, or visit the educational Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the cultural diversity of the country. Hoan Kiem Lake offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz, where kids can enjoy watching turtles and feeding the fish. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is a unique cultural experience that captivates children with its traditional music and puppetry.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter. It's a fun way for the family to see the sights and sounds of Hanoi from a different perspective.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Apricot Hotel and the Hanoi Daewoo Hotel are family-friendly options with pools and kid-friendly amenities. For dining, try the KOTO restaurant, which offers a kid's menu and supports a social cause.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a charming town known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The pedestrian-friendly streets are perfect for families to explore without the worry of traffic. Kids will love the colorful lanterns that light up the town at night and the opportunity to take a traditional lantern-making workshop. The nearby An Bang Beach provides a relaxing day out for families looking to enjoy the sun and sea.

Travel Tip: Visit the Hoi An Night Market for an enchanting evening where kids can pick out souvenirs and try local snacks.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa offers family rooms and a kids' club, while the Cargo Restaurant has a varied menu that caters to all ages.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is a coastal city famous for its beaches and water activities. Vinpearl Land, located on an island across from Nha Trang, is a theme park that includes water slides, an aquarium, and amusement rides, perfect for a day of family fun. The city's beachfront is lined with parks and playgrounds, and the calm waters make it ideal for swimming with kids.

Travel Tip: Take the cable car to Vinpearl Land for stunning views of Nha Trang Bay.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Novotel Nha Trang and the Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel & Spa are great family-friendly accommodations. For meals, check out the Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant, which has a welcoming atmosphere for families.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a modern city with plenty of attractions for families. The Sun World Da Nang Wonders theme park and the Sun Wheel offer thrilling rides and panoramic views of the city. For a more relaxed experience, the My Khe Beach is known for its soft sand and gentle waves. The Marble Mountains, a short drive from the city, provide an adventurous outing with caves, temples, and panoramic views.

Travel Tip: Visit the 3D art museum, Art in Paradise, for interactive photo opportunities that will amuse both kids and adults.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa has a kids' club and multiple pools, while the Family Indian Restaurant offers a taste of India with a menu that pleases younger palates.

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc Island is a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is a conservation park and open zoo that's sure to delight animal-loving kids. Families can also enjoy snorkeling trips to see the vibrant marine life or relax on the beach at the Phu Quoc National Park, which offers hiking trails and picnic spots.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a family snorkeling trip where you can see colorful fish and maybe even sea turtles.

Where to Stay & Eat: The VinOasis Phu Quoc has family-friendly facilities, including a water park. For dining, the Crab House offers a fun and casual atmosphere with seafood dishes that kids will love.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. Taking a family-friendly cruise around the bay allows for exploration of caves, kayaking, and swimming. The Sun World Halong Complex offers entertainment with a water park, a Ferris wheel, and arcade games.

Travel Tip: Choose a cruise that offers kid-friendly activities and facilities, such as cooking classes or squid fishing.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Novotel Ha Long Bay provides family rooms and a kids' area. For a unique dining experience, try the Cua Vang Restaurant with its floating platforms over the water.

Hue

Hue is a city steeped in history, once the imperial capital of Vietnam. The Hue Imperial City is a fascinating complex for families to explore, with its grand palaces and ancient temples. The Thanh Toan Bridge and its nearby museum provide insight into rural Vietnamese life. For a fun outdoor activity, take a dragon boat ride on the Perfume River.

Travel Tip: Visit the Dong Ba Market to introduce kids to local foods and handicrafts in a lively market atmosphere.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa offers a tranquil setting with a kids' pool and playground. For dining, the family-friendly Nook Cafe & Bar serves both Vietnamese and Western dishes.