17 Tips For Preparing A Family Trip To Vietnam

Are you looking for information to perfectly plan your family trip to Vietnam?

You’re in the right place!

We’ve prepared a comprehensive guide with 17 tips covering all topics, such as how to obtain a Vietnam visa, choose the best travel times (when to go), find reasonably priced flights, estimate your budget, discover what to see and do, transportation options, activities and culinary experiences.

Get ready for an extraordinary adventure with your family in this enchanting country!

Best times to travel to Vietnam as a family

Vietnam is a year-round destination, but the best time for a family trip depends on where you go and what experiences you want to enjoy. With its diverse climate stretching from north to south, Vietnam offers different charms in each season. Planning carefully will help ensure your family has a comfortable and memorable journey.

Spring (February – April)

• Average temperature: 20–28°C

Spring is one of the most family-friendly seasons in Vietnam. The weather is mild across the country, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Sapa, and Halong Bay, enjoys cool breezes, while central and southern regions are warm and sunny. Families can also witness the vibrant Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations, which offer cultural experiences for children and adults alike.

Summer (May – August)

• Average temperature: 25–35°C

If your family loves the sea, summer is the perfect time to visit Vietnam’s beaches. Destinations like Da Nang, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Mui Ne offer long sandy shores and family-friendly resorts. Parents can relax while children enjoy swimming, water sports, or beach games. However, be mindful of high temperatures and occasional heavy rains, especially in the north and central regions.

Autumn (September – November)

• Average temperature: 22–30°C

Autumn brings cooler weather and beautiful scenery, especially in northern Vietnam. Families can enjoy walks around Hanoi’s Old Quarter or explore terraced rice fields in Sapa at their most picturesque. Central Vietnam, including Hue and Hoi An, also experiences pleasant conditions, making sightseeing with kids much easier. This season is less crowded than summer, giving families more space to explore comfortably.

Winter (December – January)

• Average temperature: North 10–18°C, Central & South 22–28°C

Winter in Vietnam varies by region. The north can get quite cold, especially in the mountains, which may appeal to families with older children who enjoy adventure travel. Central and southern Vietnam remain warm, offering plenty of sunshine for beach holidays and outdoor excursions. Visiting Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta during this season is particularly enjoyable for family boat trips and cultural experiences.

👉 Spring and autumn are the most suitable times for a family trip to Vietnam, thanks to their mild climate and favorable conditions for both cultural exploration and relaxation.

What to see in Vietnam during your family trip?

Hanoi

Hanoi, a must-visit destination, is the heart of Vietnam, where “Vietnamese life” blends seamlessly with its colonial past. Scooters dominate the bustling maze of narrow streets packed with countless small stalls, shops of every kind, and vibrant street food vendors. The chaos on the sidewalks is a true spectacle! Clothing vendors, low tables with stools for diners, children playing, artisans at work—these sights fill the city. Cyclo drivers weave through the Old Quarter’s streets, still organized by traditional trades.

Must-visit attractions in Hanoi:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

• The One Pillar Pagoda

• Quan Thanh Temple & Tran Quoc Pagoda

• Dong Xuan Market

• The Museum of Ethnography

• Train Street

• A lacquer workshop, one of Vietnam's renowned crafts

Ninh Binh

Take a peaceful pause in the tranquil beauty of Ninh Binh, where undulating rice paddies lie nestled among towering limestone karsts. Life in this idyllic setting carries on with timeless charm, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s pastoral lifestyle amid the poetic and serene landscapes of Thung Nham.

Known as the “Halong Bay on Land”, Ninh Binh is located southeast of Hanoi and boasts postcard-perfect scenery. Some scenes from the famous film Indochine were shot here. A calm, silent river meanders through lush green rice fields and majestic sugarloaf limestone peaks in an atmosphere of absolute serenity. A traditional sampan boat ride through this majestic natural setting is an unforgettable experience, accompanied by the melodies of birds and the sights of ancient pagodas hidden among the rocks.

Must-visit attractions in Ninh Binh:

• Tam Coc

• Trang An (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Phat Diem Cathedral

• Cuc Phuong National Park

• Van Long Nature Reserve

• Hang Mua (Mua Cave)

• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital

• The Grand Bai Dinh Pagoda

Halong Bay

Halong Bay, with its 1,969 limestone islets rising from the turquoise waters of the East Sea, has been recognized as a natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994.

The name "Halong" means "descending dragon." According to legend, a dragon descended into the bay to tame the ocean currents. With powerful sweeps of its tail, it carved deep valleys and mountains. As the dragon dove into the sea, the water rose, leaving only the highest peaks visible above the surface.

Must-visit areas:

• Halong Bay

• Bai Tu Long Bay

• Lan Ha Bay

• Cat Ba Island

Sapa

In the H’Mong heartland of northern Vietnam, Sapa invites you to connect with locals who live a traditional lifestyle untouched by modern times. With its breathtaking terraced rice fields and colorful markets, the experience is guaranteed to amaze you!

Sapa, originally established as a French hill station in the early 20th century, is home to more than 30 ethnic minorities. It also boasts Vietnam’s highest peak, Mount Fansipan, which rises to an impressive 3,143 meters above sea level.

Explore Sapa’s must-see destinations:

• Ethnic minority villages in Sapa

• Thanh Kim - Su Pan Village

• Weekly markets:

• Bac Ha Market

• Can Cau Market

• Coc Ly Market

• Sin Cheng Market

Hue

Located in central Vietnam, Hue was the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty and serves as a living chapter of Vietnam's imperial history. Its majestic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of architectural and cultural heritage.

Royal palaces, mausoleums, ancient pagodas, poetic gardens and serene ponds reflect the grandeur of imperial times. A ride on Hue’s iconic Dragon Boat along the Perfume River completes the picture, evoking the memory of Vietnam’s regal past.

Must-see attractions in Hue:

• The Imperial City of the Nguyen Dynasty

• Mausoleums of the Nguyen Emperors

• Thien Mu Pagoda (Pagoda of the Celestial Lady)

• Thuy Bieu Village

• Thanh Toan Tiled Bridge

• Chuon Lagoon in Tam Giang

• Surroundings of Hue

• Hue’s Handicraft Specialties

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis, invites you to experience an unforgettable family trip to Vietnam. Explore its colonial-era buildings, lively Chinatown, futuristic skyscrapers and bustling markets.

Dive into history at the Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh or relax on the beaches of Vung Tau. Ho Chi Minh City offers a multifaceted experience, perfect for a memorable family getaway.

Key attractions in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Notre Dame Cathedral

• Central Post Office (designed in memory of Gustave Eiffel)

• Reunification Palace

• War Remnants Museum

• Thien Hau Pagoda

• Ben Thanh Market

• Lacquerware Workshop

Phu Quoc Island

Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise with an ideal climate, perfect for a dream vacation. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush natural surroundings, Phu Quoc is the ultimate destination to relax and embrace the beauty of Vietnam.

Key highlights:

• Enchanting Beaches

• Phu Quoc National Park

• Phu Quoc Night Market

• Phu Quoc Day Market

• Phu Quoc Prison

• Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Con Dao

Just an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City, the Con Dao Archipelago, made up of 16 islands, promises an unforgettable getaway. Renowned for its unspoiled beauty, vibrant marine life and pristine forests, Con Dao was declared a national park in 1993, making it a haven for nature lovers.

The largest and only inhabited island, Con Son, houses the main town and offers a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

• Untouched Beaches

• Bay Canh Island (Hon Bay Canh)

• Con Dao National Park

• Local Markets

• Con Son Prisons

• Hang Duong Cemetery and Vo Thi Sau’s Tomb

• Van Son Pagoda

Mui Ne

Situated on Vietnam’s southeastern coast, Mui Ne is a true tropical escape. Known for its powdery white beaches, spectacular sand dunes and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Mui Ne is a dream destination for beachgoers and adventure seekers alike. This stunning coastal gem offers countless activities to make your stay memorable and full of adventure.

• Sandboarding on the Bau Trang Sand Dunes

• Night Shrimp Fishing with Local Fishermen

• Exploring the Mui Ne Fishing Village

• Kitesurfing Along Mui Ne’s Beaches

• Walking Along the Fairy Stream and Admiring Rock Formations

What to eat in Vietnam?

Vietnam is famous for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Pho – Iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken, served with herbs, lime, and chili.

• Banh Mi – Crispy baguette filled with grilled pork, pate, cold cuts, herbs, and pickled vegetables.

• Bun Cha – Hanoi specialty of grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce.

• Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls) – Rice paper rolls with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, served with peanut or hoisin sauce.

• Com Tam (Broken Rice) – Popular in southern Vietnam, often topped with grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled vegetables.

• Cao Lau – Hoi An’s signature noodles with pork slices, crispy crackers, and fresh herbs.

• Che – Colorful sweet dessert with beans, fruit, coconut milk, and jellies, often served with crushed ice.

• Banh Xeo – Crispy savory pancake stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

• Nem Ran / Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls) – Deep-fried rolls filled with minced pork, glass noodles, and vegetables.

• Xoi (Sticky Rice) – Sticky rice topped with shredded chicken, mung beans, or peanuts.

You can read: Vietnamese Food: Top 30 Must-try Dishes In Vietnam

Handpicked family tours in Vietnam

For those looking to embark on a family trip to Vietnam, Hanoi Voyages has crafted a detailed list of itineraries based on the duration of your journey. These are sample Vietnam tours—Tell us your preferences and we'll design your personalized trip:

Hanoi Voyages specializes in crafting “private” and “tailor-made” travel experiences in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.

What budget to expect for a family vacation in Vietnam

To plan your budget, it's crucial to consider various aspects of your trip, including accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and additional expenses. Here’s an overview:

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation varies by type and location:

• Budget options: $20–$50 per night for family rooms in budget hotels or hostels.

• Mid-range options: $50–$150 per night for comfortable stays.

• Luxury resorts: $200+ per night for high-end amenities.

Food

Meals in Vietnam are generally cheap, especially if you opt for street food or small local restaurants. Plan on spending around $5- $15 per person per day for meals, depending on your appetite and dietary preferences.

Transportation

Transportation costs can constitute a significant portion of the budget for your family trip to Vietnam, especially if you plan to travel frequently between cities or tourist attractions.

Domestic flights can be affordable, though prices may vary depending on the season and demand.

Trains and buses are more budget-friendly options, but the travel times can be longer. Plan for a budget of $20 to $50 per person for public transportation between major tourist destinations.

Activities

Activities are an important part of any family trip. The cost of guided tours, boat excursions, national park entry, and recreational activities varies based on the venue and type of activity. Budget an additional $10 to $50 per person every day for activities.

How to get around Vietnam

Efficient transportation is key to a successful family trip. We prioritize your children's safety by providing specially designed seats for secure and comfortable travel.

• Domestic flights: Fastest for long distances between cities like Hanoi – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City, as well as to Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

• Trains: Scenic and comfortable; the Reunification Express links Hanoi – Hue – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City.

• Buses: Budget-friendly; sleeper buses for long trips, minivans for routes like Hanoi – Sapa.

• Private cars & taxis: Convenient for families; hire a driver for day trips or intercity travel.

• Ride-hailing apps (Grab, Xanh SM, Be): Easy and affordable for short city rides, motorbike taxis, or food delivery.

• Motorbikes: Adventurous and flexible; best in Ha Giang, Da Lat, or Phu Quoc.

• Cyclos & Bicycles: Relaxed way to see Old Quarters in Hanoi, Hue, or Hoi An.

Learn more: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around

Why choose a local travel agency?

Planning a trip to Vietnam, or combining Vietnam with nearby destinations like Laos, Cambodia, or Thailand, can be exciting but also overwhelming. From choosing the right destinations to handling logistics, there are countless details that can make or break your travel experience. That’s why working with a local travel agency can be one of the smartest decisions you make.

Among the many travel agencies in Vietnam, Hanoi Voyages stands out for its dedication to creating meaningful and unforgettable trips. With years of experience, a team of passionate travel experts, and excellent customer service, Hanoi Voyages offers:

• Tailor-made itineraries crafted to match your style and pace.

• Expert local guides who bring destinations to life with engaging stories.

• Seamless organization, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

• Multi-country travel options across Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand.

A family trip to Vietnam is more than a getaway—it’s a transformative journey into the charm and diversity of the country. From historic landmarks to pristine beaches and lush landscapes, Hanoi Voyages ensures every moment is tailored to create memories that last a lifetime.