Family vacation in Ho Chi Minh city: What to see & do

Planning a family vacation in Ho Chi Minh City promises a vibrant mix of cultural discoveries and fun-filled activities for all ages. As Vietnam’s largest city, it offers a fascinating blend of modern attractions and historical charm—perfect for creating unforgettable family moments.

In this guide, you’ll find the best things to see and do with kids, from interactive museums to kid-friendly parks and delicious local eats. Let Hanoi Voyages help you design the perfect itinerary for your family, tailored to your pace and interests.

What are the best times for a family trip to Ho Chi Minh city?

Ho Chi Minh City, with its sunny and warm climate, is an ideal destination to visit with family all year round. However, to make the most of your stay and choose the best time, it’s important to understand the city’s two distinct seasons:

• Dry season (from December to late April): This is the best time to travel with family in Ho Chi Minh City. During this period, you’ll enjoy sunny days—perfect for sightseeing and engaging in outdoor activities—with very little rainfall.

• Rainy season (from May to late November): Although it remains hot, this season is marked by frequent but generally short-lived showers. The rain offers a refreshing change, which can provide a different and enjoyable experience for families traveling during this time.

What to do with family in Ho Chi Minh city?

Ho Chi Minh City, the economic capital of Vietnam, is filled with exciting activities to enjoy as a family. With its numerous historical landmarks, vibrant markets and fun-filled attractions for all ages, the city offers a rich and varied experience. During your trip to Vietnam, here are our suggestions to fully enjoy this fascinating destination as a family!

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Address: District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon comes alive at night with many entertainment spots, including Nguyen Hue Walking Street. This area attracts not only young people but is also a fantastic choice for family outings in Ho Chi Minh City. Families can stroll along the street, take photos and enjoy delicious street food. On special occasions, visitors can also attend outstanding cultural and artistic performances.

Cu Chi Tunnels

Address: Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung, Cu Chi District

Among the top family-friendly sites in Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see. This extensive tunnel complex, which played a crucial role during the Vietnam War, offers families a chance to explore history and learn about Vietnamese resistance. Many families with school-aged children come here to discover their country's heroic past and engage in fun games and interactive challenges.

Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Ticket prices: 

• Adults: 70,000 VND/person (~$3)

• Children (7–16 years old) & students: 35,000 VND/person (~$1.5)

• Free entry for children under 7, people with disabilities, war veterans, and low-income households.

• Tunnel exploration: 20,000 VND per person

• Activities and games: 50,000 VND per person

Reunification Palace

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ho Chi Minh City

Renamed “Reunification Palace” by President Ngo Dinh Diem in 1955, it adopted its current name after Vietnam’s reunification in 1975. Now a classified national historic monument, this iconic site blends modern and traditional architecture, offering an enriching experience for the whole family. Children and adults alike can explore its historical rooms, lush gardens and fascinating interiors while learning more about Vietnam’s history. Frequently visited by both Vietnamese and international tourists, this landmark is an excellent choice for a family outing, especially on weekends and public holidays.

À Ố Show

The “À Ố Show” is a unique performance showcasing Vietnamese culture through stunning artistic displays. This fusion show combines circus arts and contemporary dance with other forms of performance, using bamboo and rattan props accompanied by a soundscape of 17 traditional and modern instruments. Perfect for family travel, the show offers an immersive experience that captivates both children and adults, allowing everyone to appreciate the richness of Vietnamese culture in a fun and engaging setting.

• Ticket price: From 800,000 VND

• Address: 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Showtime: From 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM daily.

• Theater hours: Opens 2 hours before the show starts and closes 10 minutes before the performance begins.

Ben Thanh Market

Inaugurated in 1914, Ben Thanh Market is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It stands as a symbol of the city and a witness to its local history. This bustling market features a wide array of stalls offering clothes, shoes, fabrics, handicrafts, jewelry and most notably, delicious local cuisine. For families visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market offers a vibrant cultural experience: children can marvel at unique handmade items and the hustle of street vendors, while parents sample traditional dishes and pick up authentic souvenirs. It’s an essential stop for a well-rounded family exploration of the city!

To make your trip even more memorable, why not consider a 10-day Vietnam family tour? This kind of itinerary allows you to combine the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City with other iconic Vietnamese destinations such as Phu Quoc and the Mekong Delta. You’ll explore diverse landscapes, discover unique traditions and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. This family adventure promises deep cultural immersion and a variety of activities suitable for all ages. So get ready to enjoy an extraordinary family experience in the heart of Vietnam!

What to eat with family in Ho Chi Minh city?

Com tam Saigon

Com tam Saigon, an authentic and emblematic local dish, is one of the most beloved meals in Ho Chi Minh City. Made from broken rice, grilled pork, eggs, cucumbers and a special nuoc mam fish sauce, it delivers a burst of unique flavors. A full plate often includes pork chops, minced meat cakes (chả), shredded pork skin (bì), a fried egg, crispy onions and a flavorful garlic and chili nuoc mam sauce. With its distinctive aromas, cơm tấm offers an unforgettable culinary experience—perfect for families wondering what to eat in Saigon.

Banh mi

Enjoying a bánh mì sandwich in Saigon is a must for families on the go. Easily found across the bustling city streets, this convenient and delicious food makes for a quick meal that both kids and adults love. Classic fillings include cold cuts, roasted pork, shredded pork floss (chà bông), fresh vegetables and a mix of condiments and sauces. These sauces—made from nuoc mam, soy sauce, or sardine juice—enhance the sandwich's flavor, making it utterly irresistible.

Hu tieu Nam Vang

When unsure of what to eat in Saigon, hủ tiếu Nam Vang is a great option to satisfy your appetite. This dish features a comforting, mildly sweet broth with a variety of ingredients that harmonize beautifully. You'll enjoy the freshness of shrimp, pork and soft, chewy noodles. Hu tieu Nam Vang can be enjoyed in two ways: as a soup or in a dry version, depending on your preference.

Bun thit nuong

For families exploring Saigon, sharing a bowl of bún thịt nướng is a fun and flavorful experience for all. This iconic dish combines light and silky rice vermicelli with expertly marinated grilled pork, crisp vegetables like lettuce, cucumber and bean sprouts, along with fragrant herbs such as mint and basil. Pickled carrots and crunchy peanuts top it off for a delightful touch of indulgence.

You may want to read: Ho Chi Minh cuisine: Top 10 best dishes must try

How many days do you need to visit Ho Chi Minh city?

Wondering how much time to spend in Ho Chi Minh City? Whether you have just one day or a full weekend, the city offers plenty to explore—from its French-colonial landmarks to vibrant markets and historic wartime sites. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Vietnam’s bustling southern hub.

If you have 1 day to visit Ho Chi Minh city

Spend the day exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s essential colonial and Chinese quarters:

• Notre-Dame Cathedral

• Central Post Office, inspired by Gustave Eiffel

• Reunification Palace, former residence of the President of South Vietnam until April 30, 1975

• War Remnants Museum, offering a poignant view of the country’s history

• Thiên Hau Pagoda, located in Cholon (the Chinatown district)

• Ben Thanh Market, a lively downtown hotspot

If you have extra time, consider visiting a lacquerware workshop to learn about traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.

If you have 2 days to visit Ho Chi Minh city

Day 1: Cultural and historical immersion 

Begin with an exploration of the city’s colonial landmarks and Chinese heritage:

• Notre-Dame Cathedral

• Central Post Office

• Reunification Palace

• War Remnants Museum for a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s modern history

• Thiên Hau Pagoda in Chinatown

• Ben Thanh Market, known for its vibrant atmosphere

If time allows, stop by a lacquerware workshop to watch artisans at work.

Day 2: Excursions around Ho Chi Minh city 

Explore historical sites located about 100 km from the city, approximately a 3-hour drive:

• Tay Ninh, a sacred site for followers of Caodaism, a unique religion blending Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity.

• In the afternoon, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War—an impressive testament to the resilience against American forces.

These two days will offer you a comprehensive view of the city and its surroundings, blending history, culture and discovery.

More details in: Ho Chi Minh City in 2 days: Top attractions & unique experiences

Tips for enjoying Ho Chi Minh city with family

When traveling with family to Ho Chi Minh City, a few practical tips can make your experience even more enjoyable and safe. Here are some key suggestions to ensure a pleasant vacation with your loved ones while exploring the city’s famous sights:

• Dress appropriately: Saigon’s weather is often hot and humid. Wear lightweight, comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. When visiting temples or pagodas, dress modestly to respect sacred sites.

• Protect your belongings: With children, it’s easy to get distracted amid the hustle of markets or tourist attractions. Keep your valuables secure to avoid any losses.

• Be cautious when crossing streets: Crossing the road in Ho Chi Minh City can feel like an adventure. Always hold your children’s hands and cross carefully.

• Learn the local culture: Learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases can be a fun family activity. It will enrich your experience and make interactions with locals more engaging.

Ho Chi Minh City offers countless must-do activities for an unforgettable family stay and your visit can be fully tailored to your interests and desires. For families, it’s essential to plan activities that suit all ages while considering the city’s climate, bustling traffic and local customs. Good preparation will ensure a memorable stay in this dynamic and surprising city.

With Hanoi Voyages, every detail of your family trip is carefully organized to meet your needs. Contact us today to design a tailor-made itinerary and embark on an exceptional adventure in Ho Chi Minh City!