Family Travel Guide: An Exciting 3-Week Adventure in Vietnam with the Kids.

Overview of Vietnam: An Adventure Fit for the Whole Family

Vietnam is a fantastic destination for a family holiday because of its rich natural beauty, history, and culture. An amazing trip awaits the whole family on a 3-week itinerary in Vietnam, with its varied scenery, amiable natives, and intriguing sites. Vietnam offers attractions for tourists of all ages, from the lively energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the historic hamlet of Hoi An, and from the busy streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay.

We will walk you through a well-planned 3-week itinerary in Vietnam with kids in this extensive guide, making sure your family sees everything this stunning nation has to offer. Everything from organizing your travel and packing necessary items to touring each location and partaking in family-friendly activities will be covered. So gather your belongings and get set for an incredible trip to Vietnam with your kids!

Organizing Your Three-Week Trip to Vietnam with Kids

It is essential to prepare ahead of time for your Vietnamese vacation in order to guarantee a seamless and joyful experience for the entire family. Let me discuss some essential elements of organizing your family-friendly three-week schedule in Vietnam.

Ideal Time to Bring Kids to Vietnam

Your family's experience in Vietnam might be greatly impacted by selecting the ideal time to travel there. The north and south of the country have different climates, so it is important to take that into account when making travel plans.

In general, the dry season—which in most of the nation spans from November to April—is the ideal time to go to Vietnam with children. Less rain and more comfortable temperatures are to be expected during these months, which makes exploring with kids easier.

But remember that the climate might still change based on the location:

• The coolest and driest months in Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ha Long Bay, Sapa, or Pu Luong) are November through April, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities.
• The ideal months to visit Middle Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang) are February through August, when temperatures are pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
• The dry season, which runs from December to April in Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc), is ideal for touring the area and going to the beach.

Travel documents and requirements for visas

Having the right paperwork is essential for a stress-free family vacation to Vietnam. To enter the country, most nationalities need a visa, which is best arranged ahead of time.

You must apply for a tourist visa if you plan to remain for three weeks. For many families, the simplest alternative is the e-visa, which you may apply for online prior to your trip. What you should know is as follows:

• E-visas permit a single entry and have a maximum validity of 90 days.
• Apply online at least 14 days before your trip using the official Vietnamese government website.
• The information papers and passport images for your family must be digital copies.
• To produce the e-visa approval letter when you arrive in Vietnam, print it out.

Make sure all of the passengers' passports are valid for at least six months after the date you intend to return.

What to Bring on a Family Vacation to Vietnam?

The secret to traveling with kids is to pack wisely. The following is a list of things you should pack for a three-week trip to Vietnam with children:

1. Warm-weather attire that is breathable and comfortable
2. For chilly nights, wear light sweaters or coats (particularly in the north)
3. Sturdy sandals and walking shoes
4. Sun protection (high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses)
5. Repellent for insects
6. Both wet wipes and hand sanitizer
7. A basic first-aid kit with all the prescriptions you might need
8. Reusable bottles of water
9. Foods for fussy eaters
10. Long-distance reading and gaming (books, tablets)
11. A universal adaptor and a power bank
12. Ponchos or lightweight rain jackets

You may ensure that your family's Vietnam trip is well-prepared by bringing these necessities.

Three-Week Vietnam Trip with Children

Having discussed the fundamentals of planning, let us get started on the fun 3-week Vietnam itinerary for families. We will break it down week by week, showcasing the nation's top family-friendly attractions and events.

Week 1: Investigation of Northern Vietnam

The north of Vietnam is the ideal starting point for your family's journey, offering the ideal fusion of natural beauty, urban excitement, and cultural immersion.

Hanoi: Visiting the Nation's Capital with Young Children

Vietnam's capital city, Hanoi, is the place to begin your trip. Families would find this vibrant metropolis to be a great way to introduce them to the nation because it offers a wonderful blend of current energy and old history.

Family-oriented things to do in Hanoi:

1. Admire the Old Quarter's lovely small lanes and colonial buildings while riding a bicycle.
2. Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where interactive exhibits will teach children about the various ethnic groups that make up the nation.
3. Take in a water puppet show, a distinctive kind of Vietnamese art that will enthrall young audiences.
4. Discover Hoan Kiem Lake and its environs, which include the well-known Ngoc Son Temple.
5. Enjoy mouthwatering street cuisine at kid-friendly restaurants and introduce your kids to regional cuisine.

Give your family three to four days in Hanoi so they can get used to the time difference and experience the lively vibe of the city.

Ha Long Bay: A Family-Friendly Cruise Experience

See Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters, on a fantastic overnight cruise departing from Hanoi. The highlight of your three-week tour in Vietnam with kids will be this encounter.

Family-friendly things to do in Ha Long Bay include:

1. Go kayaking and discover undiscovered lagoons and caverns.
2. Take a culinary class and learn how to prepare authentic Vietnamese cuisine while on board.
3. See the indigenous way of life on the water by visiting a floating fishing community.
4. Savor sunbathing and swimming in quiet beaches.
5. Take part in nighttime squid fishing (seasonal).

During your two days and one night Ha Long Bay cruise, make priceless moments with your loved ones.  

Sapa: Engaging Children in Cultural Immersion and Trekking

Once you are back in Hanoi, travel to Sapa, a charming mountain town renowned for its ethnic minority settlements and terraced rice fields, by overnight train or bus. This location provides an amazing chance for outdoor experiences and cultural immersion.

Family-friendly activities in Sapa:

1. Take the kids on a leisurely hike amid the breathtaking rice terraces.
2. To discover more about the distinctive H'mong or Red Dao customs and traditions, pay a visit to a nearby village.
3. Discover the vibrant Sapa Market, where children may view traditional fabrics and crafts.
4. Take a cable car ride to the summit of Fansipan, the highest point in Vietnam.
5. Take part in a cooking workshop that is perfect for families and features regional cuisine.

After spending two or three days in Sapa, return to Hanoi to catch your flight to Central Vietnam.

Week 2: Adventures in Middle Vietnam

You will go to the central region of Vietnam during your second week, where you will see historic villages, imperial cities, and family-friendly beach resorts.  

Hue: Discoveries from the Imperial City for Future Historians

Hue, the old imperial capital of Vietnam, is the starting point of your journey through central Vietnam. This historic city provides a window into Vietnam's regal past.

Family-oriented things to do in Hue:

1. Let kids explore the expansive Imperial City and experience what it would be like to be Vietnamese royalty.
2. See pagodas and royal tombs while traveling the Perfume River in a dragon boat.
3. Participate in a hands-on session to make incense and bamboo paper.
4. For an unusual and slightly spooky experience, visit the abandoned water park (older kids might appreciate this).
5. Savor a cycling tour of the city to discover its hidden attractions and way of life.

Before continuing on to your next location, spend two or three days in Hue.  

Hoi An: Beach Relaxation and Charm of an Ancient Town Hoi An

A short drive from Hue will take you to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its well-preserved historic town and stunning beaches.

Things to do with the family in Hoi An:

1. Admire the quaint architecture as you stroll around the Old Town's lantern-lit streets.
2. Take a cooking class with your family and learn how to prepare regional specialties like banh mi.
3. Take a class to construct a traditional silk lantern, then take one home.
4. Take a street food walking tour to sample the many street dishes and specialties of Hoi An.
5. Ride a bicycle through the surrounding countryside, stopping at rice terraces and small towns.
6. An Bang Beach is a great place to enjoy the beach, especially for swimming and making sandcastles.
7. Take a boat excursion to the Cham Islands to explore the marine environment and go snorkeling.

Give yourself three to four days to truly appreciate Hoi An's charms and the surrounding area.  

Da Nang: Family-Friendly Attractions and Theme Parks

Situated near Hoi An, Da Nang is a great place to visit if you are planning a three-week itinerary in Vietnam with kids because it has a great blend of modern attractions and unspoiled natural beauty.

Family-oriented things to do in Da Nang:

1. See Ba Na Hills, a mountainous resort with a European-style village and the renowned Golden Bridge.
2. Visit Sun World Da Nang Wonders, a remarkable theme park including attractions and rides suitable for all age groups, for a full day.
3. Discover the Marble Mountains, which provide breathtaking vistas, temples, and caverns.
4. Relish in the tranquil waves and fine sand at My Khe Beach.
5. Admire the Dragon Bridge, which comes to life on weekends with the sound of fire and water.
6. Take a trip of Bach Ma National Park for a day.

Spend two to three days taking in Da Nang's highlights before continuing your journey south.

Week 3: Excitement in Southern Vietnam

You will spend your last week exploring the colorful south of Vietnam, where you will encounter thriving urban areas, verdant river deltas, and an idyllic tropical island.

Ho Chi Minh City: Family-Friendly Urban Excitement

Vietnam's largest metropolis and a center of history, culture, and modernity, Ho Chi Minh metropolis (formerly Saigon), is the ideal place to begin your southern trip.

Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City with kids:

1. For an age-appropriate history lesson, take a trip to the War Remnants Museum (recommended for older children).
2. Discover the military history of Vietnam through interactive exploration of the Cu Chi Tunnels.
3. Spend a day exploring the Mekong Delta, taking boat rides, and stopping by nearby communities.
4. Enjoy yourself at Suoi Tien Theme Park or Dam Sen Water Park.
5. Ben Thanh Market: go around and eat.

Use Ho Chi Minh City as a base to explore the neighboring locations for three to four days.  

Mekong Delta: Floating Markets and River Life

See the distinctive river life of southern Vietnam by taking your family on a day trip or overnight adventure to the Mekong Delta.

Family-friendly Mekong Delta activities:

1. See the well-known Phong Dien (smaller) or Cai Rang floating marketplaces.
2. While cruising along the little canals in a sampan, observe the local fauna.
3. Check out a coconut candy workshop to learn how to make this delicious confection.
4. Taste unique tropical fruits as you go around an orchard.
5. Grab a bicycle and ride along the quiet village paths.
6. Spend the night in a homestay to get a genuine sense of the area.

Spend one or two days touring the Mekong Delta before continuing on to your ultimate destination.

Beach Paradise and Water Activities on Phu Quoc Island

Finish your three-week trip in Vietnam with your family on the idyllic tropical island of Phu Quoc, where you can unwind and spend quality time at the beach.

Family-oriented things to do in Phu Quoc:  

1. Unwind on Long Beach's or Bai Sao's immaculate beaches.
2. Go diving or snorkeling to discover the vibrant underwater environment.
3. To find out more about pearl farming, visit a pearl farm.
4. For sweeping views of the island, take a ride on the Hon Thom cable car.
5. Look around the night market to find mouthwatering seafood and trinkets.

Take the last three to four days to relax on Phu Quoc before returning home, full of beautiful memories from your trip around Vietnam.

Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Vietnam

Your three-week Vietnam itinerary with children will include a variety of family-friendly lodging options to fit different budgets and tastes. The following advice will help you select the ideal accommodations:

1. If you need more space, look for hotels or resorts that offer family rooms or connecting rooms.
2. For extended stays, think about booking apartments with kitchenettes.
3. Look for features that are kid-friendly, such as kid-friendly clubs, swimming pools, and childcare services.
4. To learn more about whether something is appropriate for kids, read reviews left by other families.
5. Make sure the location is convenient for restaurants and attractions by giving it significant thought.

Popular choices for lodging that is suitable for families include:  

• Somerset Grand Hanoi or Sofitel Legend Metropole in Hanoi
• Ha Long Bay: Paradise Cruise, Indochine Junk Fleet, and Bhaya Classic are family-friendly cruise ships.
• Hoi An: Hoi An Bel Marina Resort & Spa, Anantara Hoi An Resort, or La Siesta Hoi An Resort
• Da Nang: Furama Resort Danang or Hyatt Regency Danang Resort and Spa
• InterContinental Saigon or Somerset in Ho Chi Minh City
• Vinpearl Resort & Spa, Radisson Blue Phu Quoc, or JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa are some accommodations options in Phu Quoc.

Vietnamese Food: Introducing Novel Flavors to Children

Savoring the delectable and varied food of Vietnam is one of the attractions of the country. Although some kids can be reluctant to try new meals, Vietnamese food has a lot of kid-friendly options that can help them broaden their horizons.

The following advice can help you introduce Vietnamese food to your children:  

1. Begin with well-known flavors: Try foods that your kids might know, such as Vietnamese sandwiches or pho (noodle soup).
2. Encourage little tastes: Give children the freedom to try tiny servings of various foods without feeling obligated to finish them all.
3. Visit your local markets: Taking kids market hopping can be a great way to introduce them to different tastes and smells.
4. Take a cooking class: There are lots of family-friendly cooking programs available in many places where kids may learn how to make basic Vietnamese cuisine.
5. Be aware of the spice levels: Vietnamese food may be rather hot, so if you are ordering for little ones, ask for milder versions of the meals.

Try these Vietnamese dishes if you are bringing kids:

• Goi cuon (fresh spring rolls)
• Com ga (chicken rice)
• Banh xeo (crispy pancakes)
• Ga nuong (grilled chicken)
• Che (sweet dessert soups)

Always choose trustworthy eateries and street food vendors to protect the safety of your meals, and use caution when handling raw veggies and tap water.

Advice on Transportation for Vietnamese Families

Getting around Vietnam's transportation system with children may be a real adventure. The following advice can help the whole family have a more pleasurable and easy time traveling around:

1. Domestic flights: These are the fastest and most comfortable alternative for large distances, including those from Hanoi to Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Trains: Children can enjoy spending the night on trains, particularly those that run between Hanoi and Sapa. Select a soft sleeper cabin to increase comfort.
3. Private vehicle rentals: If you are looking for comfort and flexibility for day trips or transfers between neighboring cities, think about renting a private vehicle with a driver.
4. Ride-hailing applications and taxis: For easy short travels in cities, choose reliable taxi services or ride-hailing applications like Grab.
5. Rental bicycles and cyclo rides can be an enjoyable way to go at a leisurely pace in locations such as Hoi An.
6. Public buses: Despite being a real experience, traveling with children on public buses can be difficult because of the crowded seating and lack of air conditioning.
7. Cruises and boats are necessary for seeing locations like the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay.

Always have your hotel's address written in Vietnamese for drivers to see, and if you anticipate using cabs frequently, think about packing your own car seats.

Things to Know About Health and Safety Before Traveling to Vietnam

During your three-week itinerary in Vietnam with children, it is crucial to prioritize the health and safety of your family. Here are some crucial things to remember:

1. Immunizations: At least 4-6 weeks prior to your travel, speak with your doctor about the needed immunizations.
2. Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellations and medical emergencies.
3. Food and water safety: Steer clear of ice in beverages, limit your intake of street food and raw veggies, and stick to bottled water.
4. Sun protection: Because Vietnam has a lot of sunshine, wear caps, high-SPF sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.
5. Mosquito prevention: Especially in rural locations, use insect repellent and think about wearing clothing with built-in insect protection.
6. Road safety tip: When crossing streets, exercise additional caution, especially in crowded places like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
7. Contacts for emergencies: Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers, which should include your travel insurance company and embassy.
8. First-aid package: Stow basic first aid supplies in a kit that includes bandages, analgesics, and any prescription drugs.

Teaching Children About Vietnamese Customs: Cultural Etiquette

Teaching your kids about Vietnamese traditions and manners will enhance their vacation experience and demonstrate your appreciation for the community's culture. Educate your children these important lessons:

1. Teach them to say "cam on" (thank you) and "xin chao" (hello).
2. Respect for elders: Describe the significance of elder respect in Vietnamese culture.
3. Temples and pagodas: When visiting places of worship, dress modestly and take off your shoes if necessary.
4. Using chopsticks: Teach the fundamentals of chopstick etiquette and practice using them before the trip.
5. Physical contact: Describe how it is unusual for Vietnamese people to show affection in public.
6. Teaching children to point with their entire hand is a good idea because pointing with only one finger can come out as impolite.
7. Head touching: Describe how it is considered impolite in Vietnamese society to touch someone is head, especially a child's.

You can assist your children in developing into more considerate and knowledgeable travelers by teaching them these cultural customs.

Low-Cost Advice for a Three-Week Family Holiday in Vietnam

Families may find Vietnam to be an inexpensive travel destination, but expenses can mount up over a three-week stay. The following advice can help you manage your budget:

1. Accommodations: A combination of reasonably priced lodging with sporadic luxury stays at resorts or boutique hotels.
2. Food: For real and reasonably priced meals, try the street food in your area.
3. Transportation: To balance price and comfort, use a combination of private rentals and shuttle limousine service (e.g., between Hanoi and Halong and Hanoi and Sapa).
4. Activities: For inexpensive fun, visit parks and beaches.
5. For greater deals on souvenirs, get them in local markets as opposed to tourist shops.
6. Make reservations in advance to get the best deals on popular attractions, trains, and flights.
7. Local sim card: To get cheaper data and calls within Vietnam, get a local sim card.
8. Teach older children how to haggle amicably in marketplaces.

You can manage your money and yet take advantage of everything Vietnam has to offer by paying attention to these pointers.

Possibilities for Education: Educational Activities for Children in Vietnam

There are lots of possibilities for youngsters to learn about history, culture, and the environment during your three-week schedule in Vietnam. Consider the following educational opportunities:

1. Historical sites: For a lesson in history, visit locations like the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City or the Imperial City in Hue.
2. Cultural activities: Take part in Hoi An-style classes on traditional crafts including creating lanterns.
3. Explore the natural world and discover the ecosystems in areas like the Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay.
4. Language instruction: Throughout the trip, encourage children to pick up and utilize some simple Vietnamese phrases.
5. Cooking lessons: Learn about Vietnamese ingredients and cuisine by enrolling in family-friendly cooking classes.
6. Visit family-friendly museums, such as Hanoi's Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
7. Opportunities for volunteering: Take into account volunteer endeavors that are suitable for your age, such going to an animal shelter.

Children can gain a greater appreciation and understanding of Vietnam's rich cultural heritage through these experiences.

Purchasing Memorable Relics for the Little Ones: A Memorable Experience

Kids can treasure their recollections of Vietnam by bringing home mementos from the trip. Here are some suggestions for keepsakes that kids will enjoy:

1. Traditional toys: Paper kites or bamboo dragonflies are entertaining and cultural mementos.
2. Clothes: Traditional ao dai attire or vibrant Vietnamese hats (non la).
3. Crafts: Items made of lacquerware or masks painted by hand.
4. Stationery: Calligraphy sets or notebooks printed on conventional paper.
5. Musical instruments of the past, such as bamboo flutes.
6. Books: Historically or folkloristically illustrated books about Vietnam.
7. Snacks: Contained regional sweets such as dried fruits or coconut candy.

Encourage your kids to select mementos that represent their experiences in Vietnam and have personal importance for them.

Concluding Remarkable Family Recollections in Vietnam

You will have a wealth of priceless moments and recollections as your three-week Vietnam itinerary with kids draws to a close. Traveling across a nation abundant with natural beauty, history, and culture, your family has experienced everything from the busy streets of Hanoi to the tranquil beaches of Phu Quoc.

Along with giving you the chance to see Vietnam's colorful cities and varied landscapes, your journey has offered you a ton of chances for personal development, cultural immersion, and family togetherness. Your kids have broadened their worldview, experienced new flavors, and learned about various cultures.

When you look back on your voyage, keep in mind that every difficulty you encountered—whether it was negotiating crowded streets or attempting unfamiliar foods—had a part in creating a life-changing family experience. Your family will treasure these shared experiences and tell them for years to come.

Vietnam is the ideal setting for making enduring family memories because of its kind people, breathtaking landscapes, and intriguing history. Remember the knowledge gained, the connections formed, and the wonder encountered during your trip to Vietnam when you return home.

May your children grow to appreciate traveling and seeing different cultures as a result of this trip, and may the smiles that linger on your faces long after you have returned home are recollections of your time spent in Vietnam.

FAQs: All the Information You Need to Bring Your Children on a Trip to Vietnam

Is Vietnam a safe place for families to visit?

In general, family vacations to Vietnam are safe. But just like on any journey, it is crucial to use common sense care by keeping an eye on your surroundings, protecting your belongings, and listening to local guidance. The two main issues, which are manageable with the right care and attention, are usually food hygiene and transportation safety in large cities.

How should a family approach long-distance travel within Vietnam?

Domestic planes are the most convenient and expedient option for traveling big distances. Private vehicle rentals with drivers might be practical for shorter trips and enable breaks along the way. For children, overnight trains like the one that runs from Hanoi to Sapa can be entertaining.

Should we take any particular health precautions when taking our kids to Vietnam?

Before the trip, check with your pediatrician about any recommended vaccines. It is best to avoid street food, stick to bottled water, and apply insect repellent. Carry a basic first aid kit along with any prescription drugs you may need. It is also strongly advised to have medical emergency coverage with your travel insurance.

How suitable is Vietnamese food for children?

There are lots of kid-friendly options in Vietnamese food. Children frequently enjoy foods like pho (noodle soup), kom ga (chicken rice), and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich). But it is a good idea to begin with less flavorful dishes and add new ones bit by bit. If necessary, many eateries also provide Western alternatives.

What essentials should I bring for a family vacation to Vietnam?

Comfortable walking shoes, light, breathable clothing, insect repellant, hats, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, a basic first-aid kit, and any necessary prescriptions are essentials. When traveling long distances with younger children, think about packing familiar snacks and entertainment.

When visiting Vietnam with children, is it essential to make reservations in advance for lodging and activities?

While certain things can be scheduled on the fly, it is usually less stressful to reserve essential lodging and activities ahead of time while traveling with children. This is particularly valid for well-liked locations at busy times of the year. But allow room in your schedule for impromptu excursions and relaxation days.