Traveling to Vietnam with Kids : Things to Know, See and Do

Having an inspiring culture, rich and appetizing cuisine, and stupendous family traditions, Vietnam has become an appealing family-friendly destination recently. Many families bring their kids and teenagers for a Vietnam family holiday because of the hospitable local people and the very low violent crime rate.
In this article, our travel experts will give you some notes when traveling to Vietnam with family, a wide range of kid-friendly activities, and top destinations your family might love to add to your travel itinerary.

1. Things to note when planning Vietnam Holiday with Family

1.1. Healthcare information

Certainly health conditions will be the primary questions of all parents when looking for a vacation destination with children. Travelling to a distant country for a long time can cause some unforeseen issues. However, with good preparation and good prevention, you will be able to enjoy your stay in Vietnam without any problems.

Vaccinations:

No special vaccinations are required when you visit Vietnam. All basic vaccinations such as Anti-diphtheria, Anti-poliomyelitis, Anti-tetanus, Antiviral hepatitis B, Anti-pertussis, Anti-rotavirus,Anti-pneumococcal, Anti-varicella, Anti-mumps, Anti-mumps, Anti-rubella,.. work well.
In case you are afraid of dengue or malaria, seek the advice of your doctors whether it is mandatory to take the vaccines. However, almost all tourists coming to Vietnam don’t, they just use mosquito repellents to prevent these diseases.

Medicines to carry in your first aid kit:

If you are following a specific medical treatment, please bring enough medication with you for the duration of your trip. In general, you can find equivalent medicines almost anywhere but it is best to follow your own prescription.
Preparing a first aid kit is also recommended, which would include bandages, painkillers, anti-diarrheal medications, digestive enzymes, and cold and sore throat medications.

List of international hospitals and clinics in Vietnam:

It is best to prepare a list of hospitals and clinics once you arrive in Vietnam to prevent unexpected situations. Not all hospitals in Vietnam have English/French speaking Customer Service so you may have communication difficulties. 
Therefore, we have made a list for you:

FMP Hanoi - International Clinic
A1 Building, Van Phuc, Suite 109-112, Kim Ma Road, Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 4 843 0748
Fax: + 84 4 846 1750

Hanoi French Hospital
No. 1 Phuong Mai road, Dong Da, Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 4 574 0740
Fax: + 84 4 869 8443

Da Nang Family Medical Practice
50-52 Nguyen Van Linh Road, Nam Duong District, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 511 583 699
Fax: + 84 511 583 049

Franco-Vietnamese Hospital
MD5-1 Saigon South, Tan Phu District, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 8 411 3333
Fax: + 84 8 411 3334

HCMC Family Medical Practice
Diamond Plaza, Number 34 Le Duan Road, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 8 822 7848
Fax: + 84 8 822 7859

Columbia Asia Gia Dinh International Clinic
No. 01 Trang An road, Binh Thanh district, Ho Chi Minh city, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 8 803 0678
Fax: + 84 8 803 0677

Notes:

• Being a tropical country with high humidity, it is best to prepare a good mosquito repellent to avoid these unwelcomed friends that could cause so much illness
• Also prepare sunscreen and a hat to avoid strong sun at noon
• A first aid kit is necessary
• Don't forget to bring your prescription or a copy of it
• A printout of the list of hospitals and clinics

1.2. Study the weather conditions well

Knowing well about the weather situation is very helpful in planning your trip from which you can choose the best time to go to Vietnam or choose places with good weather in your travel period. 

Information on average temperatures helps you pack with appropriate clothes because children are sensitive to temperature change.

>> See all information on the best time to visit Vietnam and detailed information for each month. 

1.3. Transfers with children

Travel by car

If you travel by car, we recommend that you make transfers in the daytime. For maximum convenience and flexibility, you may consider hiring a private car with a driver, especially if your children are still young and you are bringing along a stroller, child carrier. Also, if you are a family of 4, the expenses of renting a car with a driver are not too expensive. There is a possibility to stop at some places for personal needs.

In case you want to use grouped buses to save money, you need to organise well to be on time. Our advice is to book a luxury bus but you have to be careful with personal luggage and organise personal needs (go to the bathroom at any bus stops).

Travel by flight

This is the best means of transportation if you are travelling with children. There are some airlines in Vietnam such as Vietnam Airlines (the national airline), Bamboo Airways and other low-cost airlines such as Vietjet Air or Jetstar. 

From what we evaluate, the price is not really cheap, but you may expect sudden flight cancellations or postponements. So be careful in choosing the right companies for your needs and budget.

Travel by train

It can be a new experience for the whole family. We now have 3 railways in Vietnam: Hanoi - Hai Phong, Hanoi - Lao Cai, Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City. Some carriages on the Hanoi - Lao Cai route are operated by private companies, while the Hanoi - Hai Phong and Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City routes have fewer carriages operated by private companies. This means that the quality and hygiene conditions can vary. In general, the rail facilities built since the early 20th century are very old, your ride may be noisy, and sometimes there are some unexpected animals such as rats,... 

Note: In any case, an overnight grouped bus transfer is to be absolutely avoided because of the inconvenience and insufficient hygiene facilities.

1.4. What can children eat when travelling in Vietnam?

The cuisine in Vietnam is so rich and appetising with many kinds of dishes and ways to prepare them. Although your children want the fried foods, soups, breads or steamed things, you can find a suitable dish in Vietnam. See in article of the best and delicious dishes in Vietnam to get an idea: Top 10 best dishes to absolutely try in Vietnam  

In case children only want Western dishes such as burgers, fries,... there are plenty of restaurants around tourist sites, especially in big cities like Hanoi, Hue, Ho Chi Minh city, Da Nang, Hoi An,...

Don't forget some snacks, small toys for long transfers.

1.5. Tips on accommodation

Many children love pools and definitely deserve a moment to rest at the pool after a long day tour with parents.

For your beach stay, try to choose a place near the leisure centres or an all-inclusive resort so that you can relax and the kids don't feel too bored.

2. Places to visit in Vietnam with family

These following destinations are the best places to visit in Vietnam with family thanks to the variety of child-friendly activities, unique eateries and cultural blends. The number of the destination is based on your preference and length of stay, as long as you do not put so many on a trip. Your beloved ones will prefer time to relax and and explore the surroundings.

2.1. Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital, is the historical and cultural heart of Vietnam. The city offers tourists many activities suitable for all ages. You can easily arrange a trip to Hanoi that combines visits to historical sites, places to play, and lessons in making handicrafts. Especially on weekends, there are pedestrian zones with many cultural activities that you can participate in. As the most important city in the country, you do not have to worry about safety and health care. It is a perfect place to spend time with families.

2.2. Ninh Binh

If you are looking for a quiet countryside that can bring rural experiences to your children, Ninh Binh would be ideal. The region is full of breathtaking scenery with alternating rivers, lakes and the verdant mountains. Thanks to that, you can always feel the fresh air. If your children love to go on bike rides, they can take their time. In the summer, you can ride in the rural routes among the scent of ripe rice or lotus ponds, it would be an unforgettable experience!

2.3. Halong Bay

Halong Bay is most famous for its fabulous scenery and many natural beauties to be amazed. It is great to spend time on your family vacation and take wonderful photos in a world heritage site. Surrounded by the thousands of limestone islets and rocks, the water in the bay is especially calm and is like a big natural pool. If you are on a pre-booked tour, you will be equipped with a life jacket and endured by the group of a professional team.

2.4. Hoi An - Da Nang

Long white sandy beaches, an ancient citadel from the 16th-17th centuries, appetising but affordable cuisine, interesting leisure centres, good hotels with swimming pools, modern architectural works, good international hospitals, short transfers, typical handicraft villages.... are the things you can find in Hoi An and Da Nang. Therefore, we don't have to explain so much to recognize these cities as a perfect place for family vacations. Many Vietnamese families also choose Hoi An and Da Nang as their summer vacation.

2.5. Mui Ne

Mui Ne, a town on the southern coast of Vietnam, is also family-friendly. Once you arrive in Mui Ne, your family will have unique experiences: take jeep rides to the red or white sand dunes, visit Ke Ga Lighthouse, Suoi Tien Stream or you can type north to visit Phan Ri and its peculiar fishing villages, Vinh Hy Bay, Nui Chua National Park. Because of easily reaching beautiful natural sites, in Mui Ne, you will have many opportunities to combine your beach stay with discoveries of Vietnam's marine beauty. 

2.6. Nha Trang

Nha Trang is also a coastal city in Vietnam, Nha Trang Bay is listed among the most fascinating bay in the world. Nha Trang is a paradise for beach lovers where you can relax on the magnificent beaches, participate in beach activities of snorkelling, diving, jet skiing, parasailing. Your evening never gets boring because the night market in Nha Trang is so lively. There is also the Sailing Club with interesting activities. For those who like seafood, Nha Trang is famous for its fresh and very good lobsters.

2.7. Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc Island in the far south of Vietnam is also a nice choice for a family vacation with children. Besides its beautiful beaches, on the island you can visit Phu Quoc national park, Pepper Garden, and the Fish Sauce Factory. It is also easy to make visits to nearby smaller islands, you take day trips or go to other islands by cable car. There are so many experiences. Then if your children want more space to spend their endless energy, you can head to the north of the island where there is a safari and an aquarium in Vinpearl Land, where it is worth spending a full day.

3. Recommended activities to do in Vietnam if you are traveling with children

3.1. Enjoying the puppet show in Hanoi

The water puppet show is a very nice thing to see once you visit Vietnam. It has been a traditional art for many years in the Red River Delta area. The skill of the performers shows in controlling the puppets underwater to tell stories of Vietnam's daily life in the past: fieldwork with buffalo, raising ducks. The story of the show together with live music from the artists playing traditional instruments make it a more special and attractive show for children and the whole family.

You can see the water puppet show at:

• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Address: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Showtimes:
Monday - Friday: 13:45 - 15:00 - 16:10 - 17:20 - 18:30 - 20:00 - 21:15.
Sunday: 09:30 - 13:45 - 15:00 - 16:10 - 17:20 - 18:30 - 20:00 - 21:15

• Water Puppet Theater Bong Sen

Address: 16 Le Thai To str., Hang Trong ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Showtimes: Daily: 14:45 - 16:00 - 17:15 - 18:30

• Vietnam Water Puppet Theatre

Address: 361 Truong Chinh, Thanh Xuan, Ha Noi
Showtimes: check at theatre website here. 

• Museum of Ethnology

Address: Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay, Hanoi
Showtimes: only on Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 - 11:00 - 14:00 - 16:00

3.2. Discovering new ethnic cultures in Sapa

Take a 6-7 hour transfer by car or 10 hour transfer by overnight train, you will reach Sapa, which is absolutely worth it if you are looking for a country with a totally different culture and way of life. Travellers are fascinated by the rice terraces, the locals of different tribes in ethnic dress despite the development of modern life. However there is a good consideration if you are travelling with too small kids because the treks may fatigue if you have to hand-hold your children all the time.

3.3. Trip on the Halong Bay cruise

Spending your vacation time at Halong Bay is a recommended activity for families, especially if you want to have intimate time. The 2-3 day overnight trips on the bay cruises make you connect better for sure. Among the visits to the world heritage site, the whole family can enjoy the best moments together: enjoy the sunrise and magnificent sunset, cooking classes, Tai Chi classes, kayaking, rowing boat or just free time sunbathing.

>> How to arrange your first 2-night Halong Bay cruise? 

>> Halong Bay cruise 2 days 1 night - What to do and see? 

>> Information about a day trip to Halong Bay

3.4. Exploring the bird garden in Thung Nham - Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh is famous for its rich biodiversity, naming several landmarks such as Cuc Phuong National Park, Van Long Biosphere Reserve, bird gardens... The Bird Garden at Thung Nham is located near Tam Coc, Bich Dong Pagoda and Galaxy Caves, so it is easily combined on a Ninh Binh family trip. The perfect time to watch the birds is about 05:00 PM. when thousands of storks return to their nests after a long day. The scenery is so magnificent!

3.5. Making the To He

An interesting way to make children learn about new cultures is through local traditional games. In the past, Vietnamese children played To He, toys made from rice flour dyed with bright colours. With imaginations and finesse of hands, To He is given soul. At first, they made only the imaginations of buffalo, pig, dragon, flower,... but now they also make Goku, Elsa,....to adapt the interest of children nowadays.

Note: You can learn how to make To He at Xuan La village, Ha Noi or at the pedestrian zone around Hoan Kiem Lake

3.6. Checking in at the Bana Hills entertainment centre in Da Nang

Perhaps you have already seen a picture of Golden Bridge, a bridge supported with stone hands from the mountain? It is the famous Golden Bridge, an architectural work located at the Bana Hills entertainment centre in Da Nang Mountain. Besides being famous for the bridge, there are many games and interesting things for children in Bana Hills. The trip from the foot of the mountain to Ba Na Hills will be taken by cable car which will give you a beautiful panoramic view.

3.7. Participating in a lantern-making class

Among the many favourite activities for children, the Hoi An traditional lantern-making lesson is the favored most. When the citadel is lit with hundreds of lanterns, not only children but adults also are attracted by the magical beauty. Many children want a lantern for themselves, so why not spend a couple of hours in your Vietnam family vacation on this activity? It is worth it!

3.8. Making a kite and launching it along the Perfume River in Hue

With the development of modern life, sometimes we have forgotten the games of our childhood. The tight time after work days allows us to complete only personal needs. It's nice to share old games with our children and step back to the past together, why not? In Hue, there is a craft of kite making and there is also a festival to maintain these traditional cultural values. If you have time in Hue in the afternoon, try to participate in the kite-making class and then let it fly along the Perfume River. The tranquillity of the city will give you very special feelings.

3.9. Trip on “xe loi” to the Mekong River Delta

Vietnam's Mekong River Delta is well-known not only for its streaked river system but also for its generous and friendly people. Trips to floating markets and inter-route trips to vegetable garden villages are very enjoyable. It would also be an adventure to explore these trips by “xe loi”, a local tuk tuk to visit this interesting area.

3.10. Relaxing on white sandy beaches at the end of the Vietnam trip with family

A few relaxing days at the beach at the end of the trip are recommended for a Vietnam holiday with family. It is a time to review all that you have already spent together and regain energy before returning to daily life. After busy days among the historical, cultural, and natural sites, the sea breeze will recharge everything.

We hope that with this article, you have some really useful tips for planning your Vietnam holiday with family and children. Certainly, it would not be easy to meet all members' needs. If you need more travel tips or a tailor-made package to Vietnam just for your family, please send us a message via email: sm@izitour.com.

>> On the Paths of the Red River Delta | Family Adventure - 06 Days

>> Best of the North Vietnam | Authentic package tour for family - 07 Days

>> From Hanoi to Saigon: Vietnam Family Holiday | Classic Package Tour - 14 Days