Best 10+ Places & Things To Do With Kids on Your Vietnam Family Vacation

Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting destinations for families seeking hands-on adventures, cultural experiences, and nature-based activities suitable for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re planning a short city escape or a two-week Vietnam vacation, you’ll find a wide range of kids activities in Vietnam that combine fun, learning, and rich cultural immersion.

 This guide of Hanoi Local Tour is designed to help parents uncover the best things to do with kids in Vietnam, from modern entertainment complexes to outdoor expeditions, cooking classes, wildlife encounters, local markets, historical attractions, and relaxing beach days.

Why Vietnam Is A Top Destination For Family Vacation

Vietnam has rapidly become a preferred destination for families thanks to its safe travel environment, accessible transportation, impressive variety of landscapes, and welcoming culture. Vietnamese people have a strong love for children, which makes traveling with families feel exceptionally smooth and comfortable. 

In cities, locals often greet young travelers with friendly smiles, while in rural areas, kids get authentic opportunities to interact with ethnic communities, learn traditions, and enjoy slow-paced village life.

For parents seeking enriching activities to do with kids in Vietnam, the country delivers a remarkable balance: hands-on cultural experiences like lantern making in Hoi An, world-famous landscapes like Ha Long Bay and Mui Ne, wildlife encounters, adventure parks, and culinary education. 

Best Places & Things to Do with Kids in Vietnam

Vietnam is a treasure trove of family-friendly experiences, offering a diverse mix of culture, nature, cuisine, and entertainment suitable for every age group. This guide brings together the best places for kids activities in Vietnam, while also providing tailored recommendations for newborns & toddlers, younger children, and teens & tweens.

1. Hanoi 

Hanoi captures the heart of family travelers with its charming Old Quarter, spacious parks, lakeside promenades, and immersive cultural attractions. Unlike many bustling Asian capitals, Hanoi retains a gentle energy that makes it surprisingly welcoming for parents traveling with children.

With Newborns & Toddlers

Hanoi is extremely stroller-friendly in many areas, especially around Hoan Kiem Lake and the French Quarter. Parents can enjoy relaxed morning strolls beneath large shady trees, while little ones observe the vibrant daily life—street performers, local tai chi groups, and fluttering red flags.

Museums such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, with its wide-open grounds and traditional houses, provide safe, enjoyable environments for babies and toddlers to explore freely. Many cafés offer spacious seating, quiet corners, and even small play areas, giving parents much-needed comfort.

With Younger Kids (4–9 Years Old)

Children in this age range often find Hanoi magical. The iconic water puppet show delights young audiences with colorful puppets dancing on water, accompanied by cheerful traditional music.

Hands-on workshops such as mask painting, pottery classes, or making small lacquer crafts allow kids to dive into Vietnamese culture in a fun, interactive way. A cyclo ride through the Old Quarter becomes an exciting adventure as they watch scooters weave through narrow streets and vendors preparing food right on the sidewalks.

With Tweens & Teens

Older children often enjoy Hanoi’s cultural complexity. Teens can join a street food tour, sampling bánh mì, egg coffee, and fresh spring rolls while learning about the city’s culinary history. They may also enjoy photography walks, exploring contrasts between the French colonial architecture and vibrant street life.

Creative teens can try calligraphy, advanced pottery, or silk-painting workshops, turning their time in Hanoi into meaningful cultural memories.

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2. Halong Bay

Ha Long Bay is a highlight of any Vietnam vacation, and its tranquil waters make it a perfect destination for families. Overnight cruises offer a slow-paced, immersive experience surrounded by towering limestone karsts – an environment that fascinates children and relaxes parents.

With Newborns & Toddlers

The gentle sway of the cruise often soothes toddlers, making naps easier. Parents can enjoy the panoramic views while keeping babies comfortable in air-conditioned cabins. Many caves and viewpoints are easily accessible, allowing families with very young children to join without difficulty.

With Younger Kids

Children love the sense of adventure Ha Long Bay offers. Kayaking with parents through calm lagoons lets them get close to nature. Most cruises also run fun cooking classes, where kids can learn to roll spring rolls, followed by the excitement of evening squid fishing.

Exploring small islands and caves transforms the day into a series of mini-adventures—each one offering something new and surprising.

With Tweens & Teens

Teens enjoy the freedom of the open water. They can try stand-up paddleboarding, swim in hidden coves, or explore larger cave systems such as Sung Sot Cave.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration, while curious teens can learn about the ecosystem, local fishermen, and the geography that formed this UNESCO site.

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3. Hoi An

Hoi An is a dream destination for families. The Ancient Town feels like a living museum yet remains relaxed, walkable, and full of hands-on experiences that make every day exciting for children.

With Newborns & Toddlers

Hoi An’s calm environment is ideal for families with babies. The Ancient Town is pedestrian-only during key hours, making it easy to push a stroller and enjoy riverside views. Kid-friendly beaches like An Bang offer shallow water, smooth sand, and shaded cafés perfect for rest breaks.

With Younger Kids

Younger children adore the colorful lanterns hanging everywhere. A lantern-making workshop is often the highlight of their trip—they get to choose colors, craft their own lantern, and take home a beautiful souvenir.

Biking through rice fields or joining farming activities in Tra Que Village gives kids a fun, educational look at rural Vietnamese life. Watching water buffalo graze or trying their hand at simple gardening tasks keeps them engaged and excited.

With Tweens & Teens

Older kids thrive on adventure in Hoi An. Basket boat rides offer a mix of fun and thrill as local fishermen spin the boats in circles. Teens may also enjoy kayaking on the Thu Bon River, photography tours, or advanced craft workshops such as leather-making or embroidery.

Hoi An is also a great place for learning new skills—cooking classes here are especially popular among teens wanting to master Vietnamese dishes.

4. Da Nang

Da Nang brings together modern entertainment, wide sandy beaches, and excellent family resorts. It is a particularly convenient destination for families who want safe, clean spaces and effortless transportation.

With Newborns & Toddlers

The soft sands and gentle waves at My Khe Beach provide a perfect environment for babies to experience the sea for the first time. Many resorts include shaded pools, playrooms, and professional childcare services, giving parents peace of mind.

With Younger Kids

Da Nang’s biggest attractions—Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge—offer a magical experience for younger children. The cable car ride itself becomes an exciting adventure, taking them high above forests and mountains.

At Asia Park, younger kids enjoy gentle rides, cultural zones, and vibrant nighttime lights that feel like a festival.

With Tweens & Teens

For older kids seeking excitement, Da Nang delivers. Ba Na Hills features thrilling roller coasters and fantasy-themed zones perfect for teens. They can also explore marble caves at Marble Mountains, take surfing lessons, or enjoy evening entertainment along My Khe Beach.

5. Hue

Hue’s serene atmosphere, historical depth, and hands-on cultural activities make it a rewarding stop for families, especially those seeking educational travel experiences.

With Newborns & Toddlers

The pace in Hue is slow and peaceful, ideal for families with small children. Parents can take relaxing boat rides on the Perfume River or enjoy quiet walks through the spacious gardens of ancient temples and citadels.

With Younger Kids

Younger children often find Hue surprisingly engaging. They can dress up in royal costumes, explore the Imperial City’s corridors, and imagine life as young princes or princesses.

Craft villages around Hue—such as those making traditional kites, paper flowers, or conical hats—allow them to experience local culture in a hands-on, playful way.

With Tweens & Teens

Teens may appreciate Hue’s depth even more. Guided tours become interactive history lessons as they uncover stories of emperors and dynasties. Biking trips to Thanh Toan Village or cooking classes that explore Central Vietnam cuisine give older kids an immersive cultural experience.

6. Ho Chi Minh City 

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is bustling, modern, and filled with engaging indoor attractions—perfect for families seeking variety.

With Newborns & Toddlers

Air-conditioned shopping centers, indoor playgrounds, and wide, leafy parks make Saigon surprisingly comfortable for families with babies. The Botanical Gardens provide open spaces where toddlers can roam safely.

With Younger Kids

Saigon excels at creative indoor attractions. Vietopia and KizCiti are role-play cities where kids can pretend to be firefighters, doctors, pilots, or artists. The Artinus 3D Museum offers whimsical rooms where children can pose inside optical illusions.

A visit to the Saigon Zoo introduces them to wildlife in a gentle, accessible environment.

With Tweens & Teens

Older kids enjoy Saigon’s fast-paced energy. They can explore interactive science centers, VR arcades, and the city’s iconic street food spots. Landmark attractions such as the Post Office or Independence Palace give teens a chance to connect history with modern-day Vietnam.

7. Ninh Binh 

Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh’s dramatic limestone mountains, winding rivers, and rural landscapes create unforgettable family adventures.

With Newborns & Toddlers

The boat ride through Trang An or Tam Coc is gentle and soothing—even babies can enjoy the fresh air and slow pace. Rural homestays offer quiet, comfortable environments where toddlers can rest easily.

With Younger Kids

Children love the freedom of exploring nature here. Cycling through rice paddies, spotting goats on mountainsides, and visiting wildlife rescue centers keep them curious and excited.

Cave pagodas provide a sense of discovery without requiring strenuous effort.

With Tweens & Teens

Older children can enjoy more active adventures: climbing to the viewpoint at Hang Mua, joining long cycling routes, or participating in nature photography tours. This is a destination that encourages bonding, exploration, and plenty of outdoor learning.

8. Sapa

A cool-climate mountain retreat in northern Vietnam, Sapa is famous for its misty valleys, terraced rice fields, and ethnic minority culture—making it a memorable destination for families seeking both nature and cultural discovery.

With Newborns & Toddlers

Sapa’s fresh mountain air and slow pace make it surprisingly suitable for very young children. Parents can enjoy gentle walks around the town center, visit flower gardens, or take the cable car to Fansipan—an activity that allows toddlers to experience breathtaking scenery without any physical effort. Many hotels offer quiet rooms, heated facilities, and easy access to food suitable for small children.

With Younger Kids

Sapa is a natural playground for curious young explorers. Short family-friendly hikes, such as the trails to Cat Cat Village or Lao Chai, allow children to see waterfalls, rice terraces, farm animals, and traditional village life up close. Interaction with local ethnic groups—like watching embroidery or weaving—adds an educational touch without overwhelming young kids.

With Tweens & Teens

Older children will appreciate the more adventurous side of Sapa. They can join longer treks through Muong Hoa Valley, try light mountain biking routes, or visit ethnic minority markets filled with colorful handmade crafts. Teens often enjoy the Fansipan Peak experience, combining cable car rides with short hikes and panoramic viewpoints. Sapa offers a mix of challenge, culture, and natural beauty perfectly suited for this age group.

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Kid-Friendly Vietnamese Dishes to Try

Vietnamese cuisine shines through its balance of flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting textures—making it especially suitable for children of all ages. Whether your child prefers something familiar or is open to trying new dishes, Vietnam offers a wide range of options that can easily be adapted to their tastes. 

Below are some of the most reliable, wholesome, and universally loved Vietnamese dishes for kids during their Vietnam vacation.

Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Pho is not just Vietnam’s national dish—it’s also one of the easiest meals for kids to enjoy. The broth is typically simmered from beef or chicken bones for hours, resulting in a light, nourishing soup without overpowering spices. Soft rice noodles and tender slices of meat make the dish approachable even for toddlers, while older children may appreciate adding a squeeze of lime or a touch of sweetness.

Parents can customize Pho effortlessly. Simply ask the server for:

• “Không rau thơm” (no herbs)
• “Không ớt” (no chili)
• Extra broth if your child prefers a more diluted flavor

Most restaurants also offer chicken Pho, which tends to be even milder and ideal for very young kids or picky eaters.

Com Ga (Vietnamese Chicken Rice)

Com Ga is a staple in both local restaurants and family homes across Vietnam. The dish features fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock, paired with either poached, shredded, or grilled chicken. Its simplicity makes it one of the most child-friendly meals you can find—soft, flavorful, and never spicy.

What parents love most is its nutritional balance: a light protein, a comforting starch, and occasionally a small bowl of mild broth on the side. Com Ga is also easy to digest, making it suitable for children who may still be adjusting to new foods during their travel.

Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)

Banh Mi is a global favorite, and children often fall in love with its crunchy–soft texture and mild ingredients. While traditional Banh Mi includes pickled vegetables, pâté, and chili sauce, it can be adapted into a simple, kid-friendly sandwich in seconds.

When ordering, simply request:

• “Không ớt” (no chili)
• “Không pate” (no pâté)
• Choose fillings like scrambled eggs, grilled chicken, pork ham, cheese, or just butter

The beauty of Banh Mi is its portability—perfect for kids during long sightseeing days, boat trips, and even airport transfers.

Fried Rice and Fried Noodles

Fried rice (cơm rang) and fried noodles (mì xào) are two of the safest choices for children, especially if they prefer familiar, Western-style meals. Most restaurants prepare them fresh and allow parents to choose ingredients such as:

• Eggs
• Chicken
• Shrimp
• Mixed vegetables

The flavors are mild unless otherwise requested, and the dishes usually come with a side of cucumber slices or soup. If your child eats very lightly seasoned food, simply ask the chef to use less soy sauce or fish sauce.

These dishes are also widely available at hotels and touristic eateries, making them a reliable option throughout your trip.

Fresh Tropical Fruits

Vietnam’s tropical climate gives it an abundance of fruits that children adore. Most are naturally sweet, juicy, and easy to eat, making them a refreshing snack between activities.

Popular kid-friendly fruits include:

• Mango – sweet, soft, and rich in vitamins
• Watermelon – hydrating on hot days
• Banana – easy to digest and widely available
• Pineapple – fresh and tangy (choose ripe, pre-cut options)
• Dragon fruit – mildly sweet and fun to eat thanks to its colorful flesh

Parents should choose peeled fruits or order a fruit plate from reputable restaurants to ensure hygiene. Avoid cutting fruit from street vendors unless it is done on the spot under clean conditions.

Travel Tips for Vietnam Family Vacation Packages

Balance Active Days and Relaxing Days

Vietnam offers countless things to do with kids – from outdoor adventures like rowboat rides in Ninh Binh to cultural workshops in Hoi An and theme parks in Da Nang. However, children (especially younger ones) can get overstimulated or tired quickly in a new environment.

A balanced itinerary ensures that every family member enjoys the trip without feeling overwhelmed. Consider:

• Active days for exploring museums, taking walking tours, joining cooking classes, or taking boat trips.
• Slow-paced days at the beach, resort pool, or relaxing cafés to give kids time to reset.

Choose Family-Oriented Hotels

Vietnam’s hospitality industry is exceptionally family-friendly, especially in the 4–5-star category where comfort, services, and amenities are designed with international families in mind. Choosing the right accommodation can transform your trip by giving children a safe and enjoyable environment to return to after exploring.

Many family-oriented hotels offer:

• Kids clubs with supervised activities
• Swimming pools suitable for both adults and children
• Connecting rooms or suites, essential for families with multiple kids
• Babysitting services, allowing parents to enjoy a quiet dinner or spa session
• On-site restaurants with kid-friendly menus and flexible dining hours

Coastal cities like Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang have some of Vietnam’s best family resorts, while urban destinations like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer modern international hotels with excellent accessibility.

Booking early is recommended during peak seasons (Christmas, New Year, summer holidays), as family rooms tend to fill up quickly.

Pack Smart for Vietnam’s Regional Weather

Vietnam’s climate varies dramatically from north to south, so smart packing can make your family’s trip more enjoyable. Because the weather can shift between tropical sunshine, sudden rain showers, and cooler northern nights, parents should prepare a versatile wardrobe.

Essential items include:

• Light, breathable clothing for hot and humid days
• Sun hats and sunscreen to protect children from strong UV rays
• Comfortable walking shoes for city tours and countryside biking
• Light raincoats or ponchos, especially during the rainy season
• Swimwear for beaches and hotel pools
• Bug spray, useful for rural areas or evening outdoor activities

If you’re visiting northern destinations like Hanoi, Sapa, or Ninh Binh during winter months (December to February), bring an extra layer such as a light jacket or sweater. Meanwhile, southern areas such as Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc are warm year-round.

Packing well allows kids to enjoy outdoor activities in Vietnam comfortably, from exploring lantern-lit streets in Hoi An to kayaking in Ha Long Bay.

Respect Local Culture and Teach Children the Basics

Vietnam is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, but observing local customs enhances your family’s experience and promotes meaningful cultural exchanges. This is also a valuable opportunity to teach children about respect, empathy, and global awareness.

A few simple behaviors go a long way:

• Encourage children to greet locals with a smile, a universal sign of friendliness.
• Remind them to speak softly inside temples and sacred spaces.
• Teach them to remove shoes if required at certain cultural sites.
• Always ask before taking photos of people, especially in ethnic minority villages.
• Encourage kids to try new foods politely—even a small bite shows respect for local cuisine.

Families who travel mindfully often find that locals respond with warmth, resulting in spontaneous interactions. These small moments—receiving a smile from a market vendor, learning how to fold a banana leaf, or playing with local children—become some of the most memorable parts of a Vietnam vacation.

Making Your Vietnam Family Vacation Truly Unforgettable with Hanoi Local Tour

A family holiday in Vietnam is filled with discovery, delicious food, friendly faces, and incredible landscapes. With thoughtful planning, the right pace, and an open mind, your family can enjoy the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. From Hanoi’s cultural depth to the beaches of Phu Quoc and the theme parks of Da Nang, Vietnam offers endless activities to do with kids—ensuring that every member of the family leaves with cherished memories.
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