Travel To Vietnam with Kids: ULTIMATE Guide To Vietnam for Family Vacation
Without a doubt, traveling with kids is not easy, and many people find it challenging to design a Vietnam itinerary that is suitable for their family vacation. A Vietnam family vacation sounds exciting, but let’s be real: kids can easily get bored with a packed itinerary with so many museums, temples, pagodas, etc. So how can you travel to Vietnam and ensure that everyone, especially your children, has a great time.
Whether you’re dreaming of beach fun, nature escapes, or hands-on cultural experiences, Vietnam has plenty to offer. In this guide, Prime Travel will help you find everything you need to make your travel to Vietnam with kids smoother, more fun, and memorable.
Why Travel to Vietnam with Kids?
Planning a family vacation can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to keep both kids and adults entertained. Luckily, Vietnam is one of the best destinations in Southeast Asia for family travel. It’s safe, welcoming, affordable, and packed with fun experiences that both kids and parents can enjoy together. From beautiful beaches to colorful markets and hands-on cultural activities, there’s never a dull moment here.
Other than that, one of the biggest reasons families love Vietnam is how warm and welcoming the locals are, especially toward children. People in Vietnam adore children. Don’t be surprised if locals smile, wave, or even offer small gifts to your little ones! Plus, many Vietnamese people go out of their way to help families, which adds an extra layer of comfort when you’re far from home.
What makes a Vietnam family vacation extra special is the variety. One day you could be cruising on a luxury cruise, and the next you’re making lanterns in Hoi An. Whether your child loves nature, animals, or simply running free on the beach, Vietnam offers something for every kind of young traveler. It’s a mix of fun, learning, and cultural discovery—perfect for creating lasting family memories.
Another reason why you should travel to Vietnam with kids is its affordability. Vietnam is considered one of the most affordable travel destinations in Southeast Asia. With so many affordable and high-quality guided tours, companies like Prime Travel make planning your family vacation even smoother. We help create custom experiences that suit your pace and preferences, because we all know family travel works best when it’s flexible.
So if you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, relaxation, culture, and family-friendly vibes, Vietnam should be at the top of your list.
Best Time for a Family Vacation in Vietnam
When planning to travel to Vietnam with kids, timing is everything. Vietnam has three distinct climate zones: North, Central, and South. So, the best time to visit depends on your route. But don’t worry, we’ll make it easy!
For most family travelers, the ideal time to visit Vietnam is from November to April. During these months, the weather is dry and comfortable across the country.
To be more specific, in the North, from October to April, places like Hanoi or Sapa are cooler and perfect for exploring without the sticky heat, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
Central Vietnam, home to Da Nang and Hoi An, offers warm sunshine and minimal rain. The ideal time in this region is from February to May, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). However, you should avoid visiting during the rainy season (September to November) because of heavy rain.
Down South, the best time to visit is from December to March. Cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc Island offer pleasant temperatures around 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The weather across this region is sunny, perfect for beach days and outdoor fun. You should also note that the rainy season in Southern Vietnam lasts from June to November.
If your kids love green landscapes and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons: March to May or September to October. You’ll still enjoy good weather, but with fewer tourists and often better deals. It’s a great time for peaceful cruises in Halong Bay, lantern-lit strolls in Hoi An, or biking through the rice paddies of the Mekong Delta.
That said, summer months (June–August) can still work for families, especially if you’re focusing on beach destinations or indoor attractions. Just be ready for more humidity and the occasional tropical shower. No matter when you visit, Vietnam has something special to offer.
>>>To better prepare for your trip to Vietnam, check out our blog post>>>
Ultimate Vietnam Summer Travel Guide 2025: Weather, Best Places & Insider Tips
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Top Things to Do in Vietnam with Kids
Once you’ve picked the perfect time to go, let’s find out fun things to do in Vietnam with kids! With a baby or toddler in tow, you should avoid destinations with extreme heat and humidity. In summer, seaside resorts and big cities are among the best options in Vietnam, where the air-con and baby essentials are easy to find. However, in the winter, the North can be pretty chilly, so you should remember to bundle your children up.
Beach/Water Activities
Cruise Ha Long Bay
Cruising through Ha Long Bay is a suitable experience for families. Kids will love the towering limestone cliffs, mysterious caves, and peaceful waters. Many cruises offer family-friendly cabins, kayaking, and even squid fishing at night. It’s a great mix of adventure and relaxation, perfect for a Vietnam family vacation.
Spend Time at Phu Quoc’s Beaches and Theme Park
Phu Quoc Island is a must-visit beach destination if you’re planning to travel to Vietnam with kids. The beaches are calm and clean, ideal for families. Plus, you’ll find endless entertainment at VinWonders Phu Quoc and the nearby safari park. Between beach time and thrilling rides, your kids will never be bored.
Visit Nha Trang and Vinpearl Land
Nha Trang offers beautiful beaches, family-friendly resorts, and one of the best waterparks in Vietnam, Vinpearl Land. Vinpearl Land features exciting water slides, wave pools, and kid-friendly play zones. The park is designed for all ages, with thrilling rides for older kids and safe spaces for little ones. This coastal city combines natural beauty with exciting activities, making it a top pick for family travel in Vietnam.
Boat Ride in the Mekong Delta
Take a slow and scenic boat ride through the Mekong Delta for a unique family adventure. Floating markets, peaceful canals, and riverside villages offer a fun and educational look at local life. It’s a relaxing way for kids to experience nature and culture at the same time.
Read more>>>Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta: Best Tours and Travel Guide
Cultural Experiences
Wander Hoi An Ancient Town
Step into a magical world of lanterns, charming old houses, and peaceful rivers. Hoi An is a favorite spot for family travel in Vietnam. Kids will love exploring the narrow streets and riding a boat under a sky full of glowing lanterns. Moreover, during the monthly Lantern Festival, the town turns into a magical scene with lanterns floating on the river and live performances.
To learn more about the Hoi An Lantern Festival schedule, check out our blog post: Hoi An Lantern Festival 2025 – 2026: Dates and Top Things To Do
Join a Water Puppet Show
Vietnamese Water Puppetry opens a window into local culture and is enjoyed by both children and adults. The shows tell Vietnamese folk tales using wooden puppets dancing on water. Catch a traditional water puppet show in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. It’s colorful, funny, and full of music, perfect for children!
Participate in a Lantern Workshop in Hoi An
One of the best things to do in Vietnam with kids is to join a lantern-making class. Hoi An is known for its colorful lanterns. Families can create their own colorful lanterns as souvenirs while learning about a long-standing tradition. It’s creative, fun, and surprisingly relaxing!
Visit the Artisan Village of Bat Trang
Take your kids to Bat Trang, a pottery village near Hanoi. You can watch skilled artisans shape beautiful ceramics, and even try making your own piece. It’s a fantastic way to connect with local craftsmanship and bring home a handmade memento.
Meet hill-tribe people in Sapa & See Bac Ha Market
In Northern Vietnam, Sapa introduces kids to new cultures and ways of life. Visiting ethnic villages and colorful markets like Bac Ha is both educational and heartwarming. Children can meet locals, see traditional dress, and taste unique foods.
Outdoor/Natural Adventures
Visit Tam Coc
Often called “Halong Bay on land,” Tam Coc is a peaceful place where you can enjoy a slow boat ride along limestone cliffs and golden rice fields. The gentle river cruise is perfect for kids. It’s relaxing, safe, and visually stunning. Children often enjoy watching the boat rowers use their feet, which adds a fun and unique twist to the experience.
Visit Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge
Ba Na Hills in Da Nang feels like stepping into a fairytale world. The famous Golden Bridge, held by two giant stone hands, amazes both kids and adults. You’ll take a scenic cable car ride (one of the longest in the world), explore a fantasy-themed amusement park, and enjoy cooler weather. It’s an easy and magical getaway for families, especially during the summer.
To best prepare for your visit to Ba Na Hills, let’s check out our Da Nang guide and Golden Bridge guide.
Cycle around Vietnam’s countryside
Cycling is a wonderful way to explore Vietnam at a slower pace. Areas like Hoi An, Mai Chau, and the outskirts of Hue offer quiet paths, rice fields, and local villages. It’s a great activity that kids can easily join, especially with smaller bikes or tandem options. Along the way, families can stop for local food or a friendly chat with locals.
Explore Trang An, Ninh Binh
Trang An is a UNESCO-listed site with stunning caves, rivers, and ancient temples. A boat trip here is calm and easy, making it ideal for families with younger kids. Paddling through caves and under limestone cliffs gives kids a little sense of adventure while still feeling completely safe. It’s also a great place to explore nature and learn about local history.
Planning to Ninh Binh is not a difficult task with our Ninh Binh guide, read our blog to find out the best destinations and itinerary for Ninh Binh trip: A Complete Ninh Binh Guide: Everything You Need for a Perfect Trip
Kid-Friendly Destinations in Vietnam
Hanoi
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a vibrant mix of old and new, and surprisingly family-friendly. It’s a great starting point for your family vacation, offering culture, green spaces, and fun activities that your kids will love.
Start your day with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can watch locals doing morning exercises or feeding the turtles. There is a range of activities in Hanoi that you can opt for: visiting historical sites, museums, taking a cyclo ride around the Old Quarter, or watching a traditional water puppet show.
Moreover, the kids tend to love street food here. Hanoi is a foodie’s paradise. Don’t miss out on a bowl of pho, crispy banh mi, bun cha, and so on. They’re all over the place for you and your children to dive into.
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the most iconic places in Vietnam, and it’s also an amazing destination for family travel. With its calm waters, thousands of limestone islands, and unique boat cruises, Ha Long Bay offers a peaceful and exciting experience that’s great for both adults and children.
One of the best ways to explore Ha Long Bay with kids is by taking an overnight cruise. Many cruises are family-oriented, offering spacious cabins with interconnecting rooms, safety measures, and a mix of fun onboard activities. Kids can enjoy kayaking, squid fishing, or simply watching the islands pass by from the sundeck.
Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is often called “the Ha Long Bay on land,” and it’s a peaceful escape for families looking to enjoy nature and explore at a gentle pace. With its dramatic limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and slow-moving rivers, Ninh Binh offers a scenic and laid-back experience that’s perfect when traveling to Vietnam with kids.
One of the most family-friendly activities here is a rowboat ride in Tam Coc or Trang An. These boats are paddled by locals (sometimes with their feet!), gliding through caves and along beautiful waterways. The ride is smooth and quiet, ideal for young children who love nature but might not enjoy long hikes.
For a fun and light adventure, families can cycle through the countryside, passing small villages, buffaloes, and farmers at work. The flat terrain makes biking easy. Don’t miss a visit to Mua Cave, where active families can climb up for a panoramic view of the valley.
Hoi An & Da Nang
When planning family travel in Vietnam, Hoi An and Da Nang are a perfect combo. These central Vietnam cities offer the best of both worlds: relaxing beaches and rich culture. Together, they create an ideal stop on any Vietnam family vacation.
Hoi An often amazes visitors with its lantern-lit streets, vibrant night market, and slow-paced vibe. Kids will enjoy riding bikes around the ancient town, sampling sweet treats like coconut ice cream, and making their own souvenirs in lantern workshops.
The town is walkable and safe, perfect for strollers or little legs. Many families also love joining a cooking class, where children can roll their own spring rolls and learn about local flavors in a fun way.
Just a short drive away, Da Nang offers wide beaches, modern resorts, and fun attractions. Families can spend the day at Ba Na Hills, riding the cable car up the mountain and walking across the famous Golden Bridge, held by two giant stone hands. The French Village, indoor games, and mini rides make Ba Na Hills a hit with younger travelers.
Da Nang also has My Khe Beach, where kids can build sandcastles, splash in gentle waves, or enjoy banana boat rides with their parents. In the evening, a visit to the Dragon Bridge, which breathes fire and water on weekends, is a guaranteed kid-pleaser.
Nha Trang
If your children love the beach, Nha Trang should definitely be on your list. This coastal city is packed with sunshine, sandy beaches, and exciting activities that make it perfect for a family vacation.
One of the top highlights is VinWonders Nha Trang—an island amusement park accessible by cable car over the sea. The park features water slides, wave pools, a large aquarium, and a zoo. There’s something for everyone, from toddlers to teens. You can easily spend a full day there without anyone getting bored.
And of course, the beach in Nha Trang offers crystal clear water, beautiful scenery, and a lot of beach activities that both parents and children can enjoy together.
Phu Quoc Island
Looking for a tropical escape that the whole family will love? Phu Quoc Island is one of the top picks when it comes to traveling to Vietnam with kids. With clear blue waters, soft sandy beaches, and tons of activities for children, it’s a family paradise.
Start your day by relaxing at kid-friendly beaches like Bai Sao or Bai Khem. The gentle waves and shallow waters are safe for little ones, while parents can enjoy sunbathing or a refreshing swim.
Phu Quoc is also home to VinWonders Phu Quoc, a huge amusement park with themed zones, thrilling rides, water slides, and even a fairy-tale castle. Next door, Vinpearl Safari offers a wildlife experience where kids can see giraffes, zebras, and lions up close in Vietnam’s first open zoo. Moreover, the kids will absolutely love the VinWonders Aquarium with a range of marine creatures and fun activities to do.
You’ll also find a wide range of kid-friendly resorts that go the extra mile to keep young guests entertained. A lot of resorts boast kids’ clubs, family pools, child menus, and babysitting services.
Sapa
If you’re looking to mix adventure with cultural discovery, Sapa is a great choice when you travel to Vietnam with kids. Nestled in the northern mountains, Sapa offers cooler weather, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to connect with Vietnam’s ethnic communities.
One of the best family activities here is hiking through terraced rice fields and local villages. Don’t worry. There are short, easy trails perfect for kids, and many guided treks are tailored for families. Along the way, children can meet locals from Hmong, Dao, or Tay communities, offering a memorable peek into daily life in the mountains.
A highlight for many families is the Fansipan cable car, which takes you to the “Roof of Indochina” without the climb. Kids will love the ride as it glides above valleys and clouds, offering incredible views. At the top, explore the mountain temples and enjoy the crisp, fresh air.
However, if you visit Sapa in the winter, please note that Sapa can get quite chilly, temperatures may dip below 10°C (50°F), or even close to freezing. Make sure to pack warm jackets, gloves, and scarves for the little ones. Some hotels have fireplaces or heaters, but double-check before booking.
Kid-Friendly Hotels or Resorts
Finding the right place to stay can make or break your family vacation in Vietnam. Luckily, Vietnam is home to many resorts that know exactly how to cater to families, offering everything from kids’ clubs and splash pools to family suites and beachfront fun.
Here are some top picks for kid-friendly resorts in Vietnam:
Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh
This beachfront resort near Nha Trang is a paradise for kids since there are a lot of kid-friendly facilities to keep the kids entertained. It features a huge playground, an adventure rope park, and a fun kids’ club packed with activities. Parents will love the spacious rooms and beautiful sea views while kids stay entertained all day.
New World Phu Quoc Resort
Blessed by the year-round tropical treasure that is the southernmost tip of Phu Quoc Island, New World Phu Quoc offers a retreat closer to nature for you and your loved ones on the acclaimed white sands of Khem Beach. The resort also has a dedicated kids’ area, family-friendly dining, and direct beach access.
Vinpearl Resort & Spa Phu Quoc
One of the most popular names in Vietnam for family travel, Vinpearl has it all: water parks, an amusement park, a zoo (Vinpearl Safari), and easy access to VinWonders theme park. It’s a complete package that will keep both children and parents happy and active.
The Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai – Hoi An
Resting on Vietnam’s most famous beach, Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai is a family-friendly haven full of activities for the young and the young at heart. This high-end resort near Hoi An provides babysitting services, a kids’ club with engaging activities, and beach games. It’s ideal for families looking for both relaxation and enriching cultural experiences.
InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort
This upscale resort combines elegance with family comfort. There’s a kids’ club, multiple pools, and family-oriented entertainment. The beach is clean and calm, making it safe for young children to play.
Getting Around Vietnam with Kids
Traveling through Vietnam with kids is easier than you might think, once you know the best ways to get around. Here are the most family-friendly transportation options to help you plan a smooth trip:
Domestic Flights
If you’re visiting cities that are far apart, like Hanoi, Da Nang, or Phu Quoc, domestic flights are the quickest and most convenient option. Vietnam’s major airlines like VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines operate regular routes at reasonable prices. Book early for the best deals and choose flight times that suit your child’s schedule.
Trains
Train travel in Vietnam offers a slow but scenic experience that older kids may enjoy. The Reunification Express runs from North to South, with soft sleeper cabins available for extra comfort. It’s a great way to see the countryside while giving kids room to stretch out. However, the journey can be long, so it’s not always the best option for toddlers or younger children.
Some popular routes, which are suitable for children, might be Hanoi – Sapa, Hue – Hoi An, and Hanoi – Hue.
Public Buses
Vietnam’s public buses are affordable, but they’re not the most convenient for families, especially with strollers or lots of luggage. Routes can be confusing, and buses are often crowded. If you’re traveling with kids, consider using buses only for short city trips or when you’re on a tight budget.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis and apps like Grab, Xanh SM are widely available in cities and are super convenient for families. You can book a car anytime, and some options even let you request a larger vehicle. It’s ideal for quick trips to restaurants, attractions, or even the airport. Always check and make sure you know the price in the application before paying. Don’t accept to pay higher than the fare from the apps unless you want to give the driver some tip.
Vietnam Safety Tips for Families
Vietnam is generally a safe country for travelers, even for those exploring with young children. That said, a few extra precautions can go a long way toward ensuring your family trip goes smoothly. Here are some helpful tips on food, drink, and road safety when traveling to Vietnam with kids.
Food and drink
Vietnamese food is delicious, but not all dishes or dining spots are suitable for little tummies. Stick to reputable restaurants, hotel buffets, or street vendors with high turnover and clean setups. When in doubt, go where locals are lining up!
Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so always opt for bottled water—even for brushing teeth. Keep kids hydrated, especially in warmer regions like the south. Bring snacks or familiar foods in case your child isn’t ready for adventurous flavors.
If your child has food allergies, consider printing a translation card with details in Vietnamese. Many restaurants will be happy to accommodate you if they understand your needs.
Road safety
Traffic in Vietnam can be overwhelming, especially in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Motorbikes dominate the roads, and crossings often don’t have signals. Teach your kids to stay close, walk slowly and confidently when crossing, and never dart into the road.
Avoid renting motorbikes with children, especially without proper helmets. For longer trips, private cars or ride-hailing apps like Grab are safer and more comfortable for families.
Child car seats aren’t commonly available, so bring one if you plan to travel frequently by car.
