Vietnam offers a wealth of attractions suitable for families, blending cultural experiences, natural wonders, and fun-filled activities. Here are ten places to visit in Vietnam with family:
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Halong Bay:
Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its amazing natural beauty. A cruise through the bay’s emerald waters takes you past thousands of limestone karsts and islets, creating a stunning seascape. Families can explore hidden caves, kayak around the islands, and even spend a night on a traditional junk boat for a memorable experience under the stars.
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Hanoi Old Quarter:
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a vibrant maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Families can wander through the atmospheric streets, visit ancient temples like the Temple of Literature, and indulge in street food delicacies like pho and banh mi. Don’t miss the chance to watch a traditional water puppet show, a unique art form that has been entertaining audiences for centuries.
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Hoi An Ancient Town:
Hoi An is a beautiful riverside town. It is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and lantern-lit streets. Families can explore the town’s picturesque alleys, visit historic sites like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Assembly Hall, and take part in lantern-making workshops. The town also offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including boat rides along the Thu Bon River and cycling tours through the countryside.
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Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and a bustling hub of activity. Families can visit iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, explore the bustling Ben Thanh Market, and learn about Vietnam’s history at the War Remnants Museum. For a taste of local life, take a cyclo ride through the city’s bustling streets or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Saigon River.
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Mui Ne Sand Dunes:
Mui Ne is a coastal town known for its stunning sand dunes, which offer a variety of adventurous activities for families to enjoy. Kids and adults alike can try sandboarding down the dunes, ride quad bikes or dune buggies across the sandy landscape, and watch the sunset over the horizon for a magical family experience.
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Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park:
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO-listed park renowned for its stunning karst landscapes and spectacular caves. Families can explore the park’s otherworldly beauty on guided tours of caves like Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave, hike through lush jungle trails, and cool off in natural swimming holes and waterfalls. For the more adventurous families, there are options for caving expeditions and zip-lining adventures.
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Cu Chi Tunnels:
Located just outside of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a fascinating historical site that offers insight into Vietnam’s wartime past. Families can explore the extensive network of underground tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, learn about the ingenious methods used to construct and camouflage the tunnels, and even crawl through a section of the tunnels themselves.
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Sapa Valley:
Sapa is a picturesque town located in the mountains of northern Vietnam. It is known for its stunning terraced rice fields and vibrant ethnic minority cultures. Families can embark on scenic treks through the surrounding countryside, visiting remote hill tribe villages and learning about traditional farming practices. Homestay experiences with local families offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the culture and daily life of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities.
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Mui Ne Fishing Village:
Mui Ne is a coastal town famous for its scenic fishing village, where families can experience the authentic way of life of Vietnam’s fishing communities. Kids will love watching colorful fishing boats return with their daily catch and exploring the bustling fish market. Families can also enjoy a variety of water sports along Mui Ne’s sandy coastline, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, and jet-skiing.
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Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay:
Cat Ba Island and Lan Ha Bay offer a quieter alternative to the more touristy Halong Bay, with equally stunning landscapes and fewer crowds. Families can take boat trips through the bay’s labyrinth of limestone karsts, go kayaking or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and relax on pristine sandy beaches. Cat Ba Island also offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting in Cat Ba National Park.