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6 Best Family-Friendly Activities to Do in Vietnam
Vietnam is a land of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, It offers a treasure trove of experiences for families looking to create lasting memories.
From cruising through limestone karsts to exploring ancient tunnels, this Southeast Asian gem has something for everyone.
We'll dive into the six best activities that families can enjoy together in Vietnam, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for all ages.
1. Cruise Through Halong Bay
No trip to Vietnam is complete without a visit to the iconic Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This breathtaking seascape, dotted with thousands of limestone islands and islets, offers a magical experience for families. The best way to explore Halong Bay is by taking an overnight cruise.
Many companies offer family-friendly options, with spacious cabins and activities tailored for children. As you sail through the emerald waters, you'll be treated to spectacular views of towering karst formations and hidden caves.
Family-friendly activities on the cruise often include:
- Kayaking through hidden lagoons and around limestone pillars
- Swimming in secluded bays
- Squid fishing at night (a favorite among kids!)
- Tai Chi classes on the deck at sunrise
- Cooking demonstrations where children can learn to make spring rolls
One of the highlights for many families is visiting the floating fishing villages. Here, your kids can gain insight into a unique way of life and maybe even try their hand at traditional net fishing.
Pro tip: Choose a cruise that includes a visit to Surprise Cave (Sung Sot Cave), one of the largest and most impressive caves in Halong Bay. Its vast chambers and stunning rock formations will leave both adults and children in awe.
From cultural tours to outdoor fun, create unforgettable memories together. Book your vacation today!
2. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels
A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's past. This vast network of underground tunnels was used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War (or American War, as it's known in Vietnam).
A guided tour of the tunnels offers:
- An opportunity to crawl through a short section of the tunnels (optional and not recommended for claustrophobic visitors)
- Demonstrations of the ingenious traps used by soldiers
- A chance to see the underground living quarters, including kitchens and meeting rooms
- An optional firing range where visitors can shoot replica weapons (for adults only)
While the subject matter can be heavy, guides are usually adept at presenting the information in a way that's appropriate for families. The experience provides a powerful history lesson and can spark important conversations about war and peace.
Explore Vietnam with your family! Book now!
3. Take a Cooking Class in Hoi An
Hoi An, a charming ancient town on Vietnam's central coast, is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also a food lover's paradise. Taking a family cooking class here is a fantastic way to immerse yourselves in Vietnamese culture through its cuisine.
Many cooking schools in Hoi An offer classes specifically designed for families with children. A typical class might include:
A visit to the local market to shop for ingredients, learning about Vietnamese produce and spices.
A boat ride along the Thu Bon River to the cooking school.
Hands-on preparation of several dishes, often including local specialties like Cao Lau (a noodle dish unique to Hoi An) and spring rolls.
Cooking together not only provides a fun bonding experience but also gives children valuable life skills and an appreciation for different cuisines.
Plus, you'll take home recipes to recreate your Vietnamese feast back home!
4. Cycle Through Rice Paddies in Sapa
A cycling tour through the rice terraces of Sapa in northern Vietnam is a must-do activity. This mountainous region, home to several ethnic minority groups, offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to experience rural Vietnamese life.
Many tour operators in Sapa offer family-friendly cycling tours suitable for various fitness levels. These tours typically include:
Bicycle rental with sizes suitable for both adults and children.
A guide who can share insights about local culture and agriculture
Stops at ethnic minority villages where you can interact with locals and learn about their traditional crafts.
Stunning photo opportunities of the emerald-green rice terraces.
A picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery.
Cycling through the countryside allows families to experience the landscape intimately, at a pace where you can truly appreciate the sights, sounds, and smells of rural Vietnam. It's also an eco-friendly way to explore, teaching children about sustainable tourism.
Uncover Vietnam's best family-friendly experiences! Enjoy thrilling activities for all ages. Don’t miss out—plan your trip today!
5. Enjoy Water Puppet Shows in Hanoi
Water puppetry is a unique Vietnamese art form that dates back to the 11th century. Watching a water puppet show in Hanoi, Vietnam's capital is a delightful activity. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi is the most famous venue for these performances.
Here's what to expect:
Puppeteers stand waist-deep in water behind a screen, manipulating wooden puppets that appear to dance on the water's surface.
Shows typically last about 45 minutes.
Stories depict Vietnamese legends, rural life, and historical events.
Live musicians accompany the performance with traditional instruments.
The dialogue is in Vietnamese, but the visual nature of the show makes it easy to follow.
The vibrant puppets, lively music, and occasional pyrotechnics make for an entertaining experience that captivates audiences of all ages. It's a perfect evening activity after a day of sightseeing in Hanoi.
Discover Vietnam's top family-friendly activities! From cultural tours to outdoor fun, create unforgettable memories together. Explore now!
6. Experience the Mekong Delta by Riverboat
The Mekong Delta, often referred to as Vietnam's "rice bowl," offers a glimpse into a way of life that revolves around the mighty Mekong River. A riverboat tour of this region provides families with a mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Most tours depart from Ho Chi Minh City and include:
A boat ride through small canals, offering close-up views of riverside life.
Visits to local villages and workshops where you can see how traditional products like coconut candy and rice paper are made
A stop at a fruit orchard where you can taste tropical fruits straight from the tree.
The opportunity to try riding in a sampan (a traditional flat-bottomed boat).
Lunch featuring local Mekong Delta specialties.
For an even more immersive experience, consider an overnight homestay in the Delta. This allows families to connect more deeply with local life, perhaps helping to prepare dinner or trying their hand at fishing.
Looking for family fun in Vietnam? Check out our list of the best activities that'll keep everyone entertained. Start planning your adventure!
Get on a Vietnamese Family Adventure
Can we talk about Vietnam for a sec? This place is seriously amazing for everyone - where else can you go from cruising through stunning Halong Bay one day to crawling through historic war tunnels the next?
Now, we get - planning a family trip can be a bit overwhelming. But here's a pro tip: think about what your kids are into and plan around that. And remember, Vietnam can be pretty hot and hectic, so don't forget to schedule in some chill time between activities.
Oh, and one more thing - keep an open mind! Vietnam's gonna throw some new experiences your way, but that's half the fun, right?
