Planning a Family Trip to Vietnam
Travelling to Vietnam as a family — especially with children — may initially seem challenging. Yet, Vietnam is actually one of the most family-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. From its rich cultural heritage to its breathtaking landscapes, combined with a wide range of child-friendly activities, the country offers an ideal setting for family travel. This guide will help you plan and enjoy a smooth, enriching journey with your young adventurers in Vietnam.
Discovering Vietnam as a Family
Vietnam is a diverse and rewarding destination that caters to every family member. From tropical beaches to lush mountains, bustling cities to peaceful countryside, each region offers a distinct atmosphere and experiences suited to different interests and ages.
Fun and Engaging Activities for Children
Children are naturally drawn to hands-on and interactive experiences — and Vietnam delivers on that front. A boat cruise through Ha Long Bay is often a highlight, allowing families to admire spectacular limestone formations while enjoying a relaxing activity together.
In Hoi An, lantern-making workshops are particularly popular with children, offering a creative and playful way to engage with local culture. For families seeking adventure, the impressive caves of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park provide a fascinating and memorable experience for all ages.
Family-Friendly Accommodation in Vietnam
Choosing the right accommodation is essential when travelling with children. Fortunately, Vietnam offers a wide range of hotels and resorts that warmly welcome families.
Properties such as Fusion Maia in Da Nang or Vinpearl Resort in Nha Trang provide facilities designed specifically for families, including swimming pools, kids’ clubs and supervised activities, allowing parents to relax while children are safely entertained.
Exploring Local Culture with Children
Vietnam’s cultural richness makes it an exciting destination for curious young travellers. Visiting local villages, attending cultural festivals and learning about daily life offer meaningful learning experiences for children.
Learning a few basic Vietnamese words can be both fun and educational. Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi also feature interactive museums that capture children’s attention while introducing them to the country’s history and traditions.
Getting Around Vietnam with Children
Travelling within Vietnam with children can be surprisingly manageable when choosing the right transportation options. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab are affordable, reliable and convenient for families.
While trains in Vietnam can be slower, they offer a comfortable and scenic way to travel between major cities, allowing families to enjoy panoramic views while avoiding the stress of road travel.
Practical Tips for Travelling in Vietnam with Children
Travelling with children requires preparation. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and safe family journey:
Health and safety
Make sure you know the location of nearby hospitals or clinics at your destination. Bring essential medications along with prescriptions if needed, and ensure vaccinations are up to date. A well-stocked first-aid kit is highly recommended and should include:
- Basic wound care supplies (disinfectant, sterile dressings, bandages, thermometer)
- Local treatment essentials (antiseptic cream, sunscreen, burn or sunburn relief)
- Medication for common issues such as diarrhoea, nausea, pain relief, motion sickness and stomach protection
Food and hydration
Vietnamese cuisine is delicious, but children should consume food carefully. Avoid raw street food, uncooked vegetables, shellfish and some seafood. Always opt for filtered or purified water. Soups, broths and slow-cooked dishes with fresh herbs are generally safe, nutritious and well-suited for children.
Entertainment and long journeys
Prepare activities for train or flight journeys such as books, games or tablets with movies or series. Travel times can be long, and keeping children occupied helps ensure a calmer journey. Planning departures during nap or bedtime can also make travel easier.
Final Thoughts
With thoughtful planning and organisation, travelling to Vietnam as a family is not only possible — it can be incredibly rewarding. Vietnam’s welcoming culture, diversity and authenticity offer unforgettable experiences for both parents and children.
By carefully planning your itinerary and choosing age-appropriate activities, your family can fully enjoy everything Vietnam has to offer and create lasting memories together.
