13 Days - Vietnam Family Explorer

Welcome to Vietnam, a country rich in culture, colour and contrasts. Upon arrival at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a representative holding a welcome sign with your name. After completing the visa process (please note the visa letter and stamping fee are not included), collect your luggage and exit the arrivals area.

Here, your guide will meet you and escort you to your private vehicle for the journey into the heart of Hanoi. The drive to the Old Quarter takes approximately one hour, passing through a mix of rice paddies, expanding suburbs and bustling city streets as you approach the historic centre. Along the way, your guide can offer a brief introduction to Vietnam’s capital, known for its leafy boulevards, colonial architecture, street food culture and fascinating blend of old and new.

On arrival, check in to your hotel from 2:00pm and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may wish to rest after your flight or take a short walk through the nearby streets to soak up the atmosphere of Hanoi’s vibrant Old Quarter, where family-run shops, temples and cafés fill every corner.

Begin your day in Hanoi with a unique look into local life, starting at Hoan Kiem Lake. In the early morning, the lakeside comes alive with people of all ages practicing tai chi, stretching, and dancing to music. It is a gentle and engaging way for children to see how Hanoians begin their day. Visit Ngoc Son Temple on a small island in the lake, reached by a bright red bridge, then head to a local café for a classic Vietnamese iced coffee or the creamy, sweet egg coffee. Parents can enjoy the flavours while children might be fascinated by the novelty of the drink preparation.

Continue into Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where the narrow streets are named for the trades once practiced there. You will pass colourful shopfronts, market stalls and colonial buildings. Walk to the impressive St Joseph’s Cathedral, then to Hoa Lo Prison, where older children and teens can gain insight into Vietnam’s history. Visit the peaceful Temple of Literature, once Vietnam’s first university, with courtyards and gardens ideal for a relaxed family stroll. Along the way, enjoy a bowl of bun cha, Hanoi’s signature grilled pork and noodle dish, at a casual local eatery. A final stop at Hanoi’s famous railway street, where trains pass right beside cafés and houses, is always a hit with children. Here, take a break and enjoy a drink or snack while waiting for a train to pass by just metres away.

In the evening, enjoy a private water puppet show, a highlight for both adults and children. This centuries-old art form uses wooden puppets performing on water to tell traditional Vietnamese stories. Hosted in the small home theatre of a skilled puppeteer in the Old Quarter, this performance offers a more intimate and personal experience. Learn about the history of water puppetry, the symbolism behind the stories, and even have a chance to try operating the puppets yourself. This hands-on moment often becomes one of the most memorable parts of the day for younger travellers.

End the evening with a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant. After a day of exploration, discovery, and fun, you will return to your hotel in Hanoi.

After breakfast, meet your guide and driver for the journey to Ha Long Bay. The drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the port takes approximately two and a half hours, passing through rural countryside and glimpses of daily life in the Red River Delta. Upon arrival at the pier, board Heritage Line’s Violet, your boutique vessel for the overnight cruise. Once settled into your cabin, step onto the sun deck to take in your first views of the limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters.

Your afternoon begins with a visit to Cua Van, one of the last remaining floating fishing villages in the bay. Glide through the quiet waters aboard a bamboo boat rowed by locals or choose to kayak independently for a more active experience. Explore the calm lagoon and floating homes, gaining insight into the rhythms of village life and the role of aquaculture in the area. The village also houses a small cultural centre where archaeological artefacts and photographs depict the history and traditions of the community.

Continue to nearby Tien Ong Cave, a lesser-known site that offers both geological interest and archaeological significance. The cave dates back to prehistoric times and contains evidence of ancient human habitation. Accompanied by your guide, explore the cavern’s chambers, noting its stalactites, open layout, and historical layers that hint at life in the bay thousands of years ago.

Return to the boat in the late afternoon and enjoy the peaceful cruise to your overnight anchorage. This is the perfect time to relax on the deck with a drink in hand, watch the light change across the water, and participate in an informal cooking demonstration led by the onboard chef. Learn how to make classic Vietnamese dishes using fresh local ingredients. In the evening, enjoy a multi-course à la carte dinner served in the elegant dining room. Later, choose to join a squid fishing session with the crew or simply unwind under the stars as Violet gently sways in the quiet of Ha Long Bay.

Begin the day with the peaceful rhythm of Ha Long Bay. As the sun rises, enjoy a light breakfast of pastries and fresh coffee in the dining room. For those who are up early, a gentle Tai Chi session on the sun deck offers a memorable way to wake up the body while taking in the calm waters and towering limestone peaks. It’s a lovely activity for parents and older children to try together, offering a quiet moment before the day begins.

After breakfast, board Violet’s day boat, Sunset, for a family-friendly exploration of the bay. The first stop is Sung Sot Cave, the largest and most famous cave in Ha Long Bay. Children will be fascinated by the towering rock formations, some shaped like animals or mythical creatures. The two vast chambers of the cave include a natural “opera house” with a high ceiling, mossy rocks, and hidden corners that feel like a storybook world. Local legends and fun rock shapes will keep young imaginations engaged as you walk through with your guide.

Back on board, enjoy a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee or fresh juice as you cruise to the next stop. A kayaking excursion offers a chance for families to explore the bay at water level. Children can join a parent in a tandem kayak and paddle through hidden coves, spotting crabs on the rocks and birds in the trees. It’s a fun and safe way to experience the bay’s beauty up close, and suitable for a range of ages.

Later, visit a floating pearl farm, where you’ll learn how oysters are raised and pearls are harvested. The hands-on demonstration is surprisingly engaging for children, who can watch as a technician carefully opens an oyster to show how pearls form. It’s a fascinating glimpse into local traditions and marine life, and a chance to ask questions and see the process in real time.

Return to the main boat in the late afternoon and enjoy some downtime. Kids might enjoy squid fishing with the crew before dinner, while adults relax on the deck or enjoy a spa treatment. Dinner is served onboard with a menu to suit all tastes. After the meal, gather under the stars with your family for stories, snacks, or simply to soak in the stillness of the bay.

Begin your final morning on the water with a gentle start. Early risers can help themselves to tea, coffee and light pastries in the dining room before heading to the upper deck for a Tai Chi class. This peaceful morning practice is open to all ages and is a wonderful way for families to begin the day together, moving slowly and mindfully as the bay begins to stir around you.

Today’s excursion takes you to Ti Top Island, one of the few places in Ha Long Bay with a sandy beach and panoramic views. Children can splash in the calm, clear water or collect shells along the shore, while more active travellers may opt to climb the 400 stone steps to the island’s summit. The walk takes about 20 minutes, and there is also a halfway viewpoint that’s great for families who want the views without the full climb. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping outlook across the limestone karsts and emerald waters.

Return to the boat to freshen up and enjoy a full breakfast while the cruise makes its way back to the port. This is a quiet and reflective part of the journey, where families can relax on the sun deck or look back at photos from the past two days. Once docked, your guide and driver will meet you for the overland transfer to Noi Bai Airport. The drive from Ha Long Bay to the airport takes approximately 3.5 hours.

Fly south to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. You might want to settle into your room, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy a quiet evening stroll along the banks of the Perfume River.

Start your day with a journey that blends Vietnam’s imperial past with its enduring rural charm. Just outside the centre of Hue lies Thuy Bieu, an ancient village known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional garden homes. Families travelling with children will enjoy the slower pace here, with space to roam and plenty of hands-on cultural moments along the way. The village’s shady lanes and wooden architecture tell a quiet story of local life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.

Explore the village’s unique historic sites, including the remnants of a Roman-style amphitheatre once used for royal duels between tigers and elephants. Continue on to a rare elephant temple-cemetery built in tribute to the Nguyen kings’ most loyal battle companions, offering a fascinating and unusual insight into imperial traditions. A visit to a nearby bronze casting village allows you to see local artisans at work and learn how these skills have been passed down through the generations.

Cruise along the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most recognisable landmarks with its seven-storey tower and scenic riverfront setting. Children will enjoy the boat ride, while parents can appreciate the serenity and cultural significance of the pagoda itself. This peaceful stretch of river offers a refreshing contrast to the busier city streets.

In the afternoon, step back into the royal world of Vietnam’s Nguyen dynasty with a visit to the Purple Forbidden City, located within the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel. Built in the early 1800s by Emperor Gia Long, this walled complex once housed the emperors and their households. The vast courtyards, ornate gates and partially restored ruins make it a fascinating site for both adults and children to explore. After your visit, return to your hotel in Hue with time to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Hue and meet your guide and driver to begin the journey south to Hoi An. The drive takes approximately three hours, following National Highway 1 and winding through some of central Vietnam’s most scenic landscapes. One of the highlights is the breathtaking Hai Van Pass, which was once the historical boundary between the kingdoms of Đại Việt and Champa and also marks a transition in climate between the north and south. This elevated coastal road is the highest in Vietnam and stretches nearly 20 kilometres, offering panoramic views of mountains on one side and the East Sea on the other. There will be a chance to stop for photographs along the way, with sweeping views of Lang Co Beach and the surrounding countryside.

As you continue your drive, stop in Da Nang to visit two of the region’s key cultural and spiritual sites. First is the Museum of Cham Sculpture, which houses the world's largest collection of Cham artefacts. This compact museum offers a glimpse into the ancient Cham civilisation that once flourished in central Vietnam, showcasing intricately carved sandstone sculptures of Hindu deities and architectural fragments. Afterwards, visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone and marble hills. These mountains are rich in caves, tunnels, pagodas and viewpoints, making them an engaging stop for families. Children will enjoy exploring the paths and staircases that wind through the mountains, while adults will appreciate the tranquil beauty and cultural significance of the Buddhist sanctuaries hidden within.

Continue your journey to Hoi An, arriving by late afternoon. This historic riverside town is known for its preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets and lively atmosphere. After checking in and settling into your hotel, the evening holds something truly special for the whole family.

Attend the Teh Dar Show at the Hoi An Lune Centre, a vibrant cultural performance that brings Vietnam’s ethnic highland traditions to life on stage. Performed with a unique blend of bamboo cirque, contemporary dance, daring acrobatics and live tribal music, the show shares the myths, rituals and stories of Vietnam’s minority communities in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. This family-friendly performance is an ideal introduction to the diversity of Vietnamese culture, offering something for all ages to enjoy. After the show, return to your hotel to relax and look forward to your time in Hoi An.

After breakfast, begin your day with a hands-on introduction to local life in Hoi An on a walking tour designed to reveal the quieter corners of this popular town. Your guide will meet you at the hotel and take you to the Central Market early in the morning, when the atmosphere is most vibrant and locals are setting up for the day. You’ll explore the fresh produce section, watch market vendors prepare their goods, and see how the rhythms of daily life unfold before the crowds arrive. As you meander through narrow alleyways and lesser-known streets, you’ll stop at local workshops and community spaces to learn how crafts, trades and small businesses thrive in these tucked-away neighbourhoods.

Children and adults alike will enjoy the friendly and welcoming nature of the residents, who are often keen to share stories and demonstrate their skills. Along the way, take a short break on a breezy veranda overlooking the river. This is a great chance to pause and enjoy a refreshing drink while watching local boats glide across the water and fishing nets being hauled in. The walk continues through Hoi An’s atmospheric Old Town, filled with mustard-yellow shop houses, ornate temples, and colourful street scenes. Your guide will share local legends, fun facts and insights into the customs and traditions that shape daily life. The walk concludes with a visit to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge before you move on to a creative cultural activity.

Next, visit a nearby family-run studio to learn the art of lantern making. Using traditional techniques, a local family will guide you through the steps to craft your own silk lantern. Children will enjoy the tactile nature of this activity and the chance to choose their own fabric colours and patterns. Once completed, your handmade lantern will serve as a memorable keepsake from your time in Hoi An.

In the afternoon, dive deeper into local craftsmanship with a bamboo workshop at Taboo Bamboo. This family-run space is devoted to preserving Vietnam’s heritage of bamboo construction and design. The family has worked with bamboo for three generations, building homes, furniture and household tools entirely from this sustainable material. At the workshop, you’ll be introduced to a surprising variety of bamboo creations used in everyday life, from kitchenware to toys. Under the guidance of skilled facilitators, you and your children will choose an item to make, receive instruction, and then build your own bamboo creation to take home. The session ends with a chance to decorate your handmade piece and reflect on the experience together. It’s a fun and meaningful way to connect with Vietnam’s eco-friendly traditions and artistic ingenuity.

Start your day with a family-friendly marine adventure as you journey from Hoi An to the crystal-clear waters surrounding Cham Island, part of a designated Marine Protected Area known for its healthy coral reefs and marine life. After breakfast, your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel and take you to the pier, where you’ll board a speedboat bound for Cham Island. The boat ride offers scenic views of the coastline and a refreshing breeze, setting the tone for a day of fun and exploration.

Upon arrival at the first snorkelling site, your guide will assist everyone with snorkelling gear and safety instructions. This area is ideal for families, with shallow waters that allow even younger travellers to spot colourful coral, tropical fish and other sea creatures under close supervision. For those who prefer to stay dry, the clear water still offers beautiful views from the surface. After the first snorkelling session, enjoy a short break onboard with light refreshments including water, coffee, tea and snacks.

The second snorkelling stop introduces another section of reef with a different array of coral and fish species. Families can choose to snorkel again or simply relax on deck and soak up the scenery. Afterwards, the boat makes its way to Bai Chong Beach, a lovely stretch of white sand where you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared Vietnamese lunch right by the water. The beach is equipped with shaded areas, hammocks and calm swimming conditions, ideal for children to play or paddle safely.

In the afternoon, take your time to unwind, swim or nap in a hammock while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. The relaxed beach atmosphere allows everyone in the family to enjoy the day at their own pace. Eventually, the boat returns to the mainland, where a waiting vehicle will transfer you back to your hotel in Hoi An, ending a day filled with sea, sun and memorable underwater discoveries.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for the transfer to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. The drive from Hoi An to the airport takes around 30 minutes. Upon landing in Ho Chi Minh City, a local guide will greet you at the airport exit. From here, a private vehicle takes you into the city centre, a journey of approximately one hour depending on traffic. This energetic southern metropolis is where tradition meets modernity, with fast-paced streets, tree-lined boulevards and a skyline that continues to evolve.

After settling into your hotel, begin a guided afternoon tour to get a feel for the city. Your first stop is the Reunification Palace, a place of historical importance that once served as the residence of South Vietnam’s president until 1975. From there, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, two colonial-era buildings that remain architectural icons of the city. Strolling through this part of town offers a glimpse into Saigon's layered history, where French influence blends with local spirit.

Continue on to the War Remnants Museum, which presents a powerful perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, preserved military equipment and personal accounts. While some of the exhibits are confronting, they offer important insight into the country’s complex history. For families with children, guides can tailor the experience to be age-appropriate and focus on aspects of daily life, resilience and peace-building. After the tour, return to your hotel for a short rest before your evening activity.

Tonight, enjoy a unique cultural experience with tickets to the A O Show at the historic Saigon Opera House. This family-friendly performance blends traditional Vietnamese stories with contemporary dance, acrobatics and live music. The show uses bamboo in creative and unexpected ways, celebrating everyday life in both the countryside and the city with humour, grace and energy. With no spoken dialogue, the performance is universally accessible and captivating for all ages. It’s a wonderful way to end your first day in Ho Chi Minh City.

This morning begins with an exciting and family-friendly journey to one of Vietnam’s most fascinating historical landmarks: the Cu Chi Tunnels. Avoid the crowds and enjoy a scenic start to the day with a speedboat transfer along the Saigon River. After a short car ride to the pier, board your comfortable speedboat and cruise through quiet stretches of river lined with lush vegetation and small villages. A light breakfast is served on board, including pastries, fresh fruit and sandwiches, making the journey enjoyable for both adults and children.

As you travel, your guide will share stories about life along the riverbanks, offering insight into local communities and the surrounding environment. This peaceful cruise offers a refreshing contrast to the bustle of the city and is filled with photo-worthy views. Arriving at Cu Chi before the main tour groups means you’ll explore the site with fewer people, allowing a more immersive and relaxed experience.

At the Cu Chi Tunnels, your guide will lead you through a section of the extensive underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Learn how these tunnels were used as supply routes, hospitals and hideouts, and discover the ingenuity behind the system. Children will be fascinated by the hidden entrances and cleverly camouflaged trapdoors, and the opportunity to crawl through a short stretch of tunnel is always a highlight for curious young travellers.

After the tour, return to the speedboat and cruise back to Ho Chi Minh City, arriving around midday. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax, explore at your own pace or enjoy time by the hotel pool.

After breakfast, set off on a sweet and engaging day trip into the heart of the Mekong Delta, a region known for its lush landscapes and vibrant rural life. Your private driver and guide will meet you at the hotel for the journey south, with the drive to the Mekong Delta taking approximately two and a half hours. As you leave behind the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the scenery gradually transforms into flat, green rice paddies and canals lined with coconut palms.

Your destination today is the Alluvia Chocolate Factory, a family-run enterprise that showcases Vietnam’s growing reputation for high-quality, bean-to-bar chocolate. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing iced chocolate drink and a brief introduction to the factory’s story. Then, begin a behind-the-scenes tour to learn how locally grown cacao beans are fermented, roasted, ground and moulded into distinctive chocolate bars.

Children and adults alike will enjoy the hands-on chocolate-making workshop, where you can create your own bar with toppings of your choice. There are plenty of opportunities to sample different flavours, from dark to milk chocolate, as well as more experimental blends infused with local ingredients like ginger or coffee. The farm visit is equally interactive, with a chance to see cacao pods up close and understand the journey from tree to treat.

Meeting the passionate team behind Alluvia adds a personal dimension to the visit, and the chocolate souvenirs make for great gifts or memories to take home. After a relaxed and flavour-filled day, return to Ho Chi Minh City by late afternoon. The evening is free to rest, enjoy a local dinner, or begin packing for tomorrow’s departure.

Enjoy your final morning in Vietnam at your own pace. You might choose to sleep in, take a last stroll around the neighbourhood, or relax by the hotel pool. It is a quiet opportunity to reflect on the experiences shared during your journey. If you wish, there is still time to enjoy one final bowl of pho or pick up any last-minute souvenirs.

Hotel check-out is scheduled for midday. Your driver and guide will collect you from your hotel three hours before your flight to ensure a smooth transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The drive to the airport from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City usually takes about one hour, depending on traffic.

As you travel through the streets one last time, you may catch a final glimpse of the vibrant city life - street vendors setting up their stalls, schoolchildren cycling home, and local residents going about their day. Upon arrival at the airport, your guide will assist with luggage and escort you to the appropriate terminal for check-in.

This brings your Vietnam Family Explorer journey to a close. We hope you leave with lasting memories, stories to tell, and a deeper appreciation for the warmth and richness of Vietnam. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey home.