12-Day Family Trip to Vietnam

Highlights of the Trip

Vietnam is a captivating destination for families looking to explore the bustling cities, natural wonders and unique culture of Southeast Asia. With 12-days to experience the best of the country, there’s plenty of opportunities for a memorable Vietnam family tour.

In Hanoi, you’ll find a vibrant mix of French-colonial architecture, narrow alleyways and bustling markets. Hoi An offers a beautiful and historic centre. Further south, the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh is a must-visit. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city’s markets, take a unique tour of the Cu Chi tunnels and check out the War Remnants Museum. End your journey with a stop in the nearby Mekong Delta. Here you can explore local markets, visit vibrant floating villages and take scenic boat trips down the meandering Mekong River – making this one of the best trips to Vietnam you could experience!

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Ho Chi Minh 

• Cu Chi Tunnels: These played a significant role during the Vietnam War, serving as a base and hiding place for the National Liberation Front (NLF) fighters, also known as the Viet Cong
• Museum of War Remnants: Serves as a powerful and thought-provoking tribute to the impact of the Vietnam War.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: Built between 1863 and 1880, this cathedral has become a symbol of Catholicism in the country.
• Tuong Van Pagoda: A Buddhist temple holding great historical and cultural significance.
• Cao Dai Temple: Established in 1926 when Ngo Van Chieu, a Vietnamese official, claimed that he had a vision from God instructing him to create a new religion that would combine the teachings of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Christianity.

Hoi An

• Here you can explore the many landmarks location in this serene ancient town.

Hue

• Hue’s Ancient Citadel: A spectacular testament to Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage.
• Thien Mu Pagoda: This seven-story temple, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
• Hon Chen Temple: Dedicated to the worship of Cham deities and is considered one of the most important sites for the Cham people.
• Minh Mang and Gia Long tombs: These majestic mausoleums were built during the Nguyen dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945.

Hanoi

• Temple of Literature: Built in 1070 during the Ly dynasty, it served as the first national university in Vietnam and is dedicated to Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher.
• Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum: A majestic structure that serves as the final resting place of the father of modern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh.
• Tran Quoc Pagoda: Dating back to the 6th century, this pagoda is one of the oldest in the city and holds significant importance in the country’s history.
• Emperor Dinh and Emperor Le Temples: Two of the most important and significant historical sites in the country. Both temples were built in honour of two legendary leaders, Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh.
• Mua Caves: These ancient caves are one of the most picturesque and enchanting spots in the country.
• Ha Long Bay: A breath-taking area filled with thousands of limestone karsts and islands that rise out of the emerald green waters.
• Lan Ha Bay: This bay is less crowded making it the perfect destination for those seeking a more authentic and tranquil experience.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Scooter Ride: During this family trip to Vietnam, hop on the back of a scooter and embrace the local markets and delicious cuisine on offer in Ho Chi Minh. Explore the bustling Chinatown and be invigorated by the serene scents from the Ho Thi Ky wholesale flower market. You will also explore the Nguyen Thien Thuat area which houses some of the most diverse styled cuisine and contagious local culture.

Make Crispy banana cracker: Immerse yourself into the local culture with a lesson on how to create this delicious cuisine. A popular snack in Vietnam, crispy banana crackers have become a staple in local markets and street food stalls. These addictively crunchy treats are made from a dough mixture of flour, sugar, and mashed bananas, which are then deep fried to a golden brown perfection.

Local Markets: Discover markets such as the huge Ben Thanh market, one of the liveliest areas of Ho Chi Minh City, the colourful riverside market along the Mekong.

Ancient Town Hoi An: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, this area is a maze of narrow streets and traditional houses, many of which have been converted into shops, restaurants, and homestays. The town is known for its colourful lanterns that light up the streets at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the markets and sample local street food, giving them a taste of traditional Vietnamese cuisine.

Motorbike Ride: Embrace the local street food while cruising around the Old Quarter in Hanoi on a motorbike. As soon as you hop on a motorbike and join the chaotic traffic flow, you become a part of the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s daily life. The honking of horns, weaving in and out of traffic, and the constant buzz of motorbikes whizzing by creates a sense of excitement and adventure.

Morning Tai Chi Session: Embrace this session surrounded the the beauty of Ha Long Bay. The slow and graceful movements of tai chi are not just for physical exercise, but also for the mind and soul. It is believed that tai chi helps to balance the Qi (energy flow) in the body, promoting overall well-being.

Local Cuisine and Traditional Dishes to try while in Vietnam

During this tour, numerous opportunities will arise for you to savour the authentic local cuisine, whether from the menus of included meals or from your own culinary exploration during your free time in the itinerary. Indulge in traditional dishes that showcase the rich flavours of the region, including pho, a flavourful noodle soup made with a rich broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). This dish can be found at street food stalls, local restaurants, and even high-end establishments. Another iconic dish is banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich filled with different types of meats, cilantro, pickled carrots, and cucumber. It is a perfect blend of crispy bread and savoury fillings that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Mekong Delta Speedboat Trip:  A speedboat trip on the Mekong Delta is not only a thrilling and exhilarating experience, but it also offers a different perspective of the delta compared to traditional forms of transportation such as buses or cars. This is a great addition to a family trip to Vietnam!

Farmer to Fisherman Tour: Embrace the Vietnamese countryside where you will be greeted by endless rice paddies, verdant green fields, and quaint villages where time seems to stand still. The landscape is dominated by lush greenery and tranquil waterways, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. After joining the fishermen to try your hand at catching fish in a traditional ‘Thung Chai’ basket
boat, you will meander through the water palm coconut canal.

Boat trip to visit Royal Tombs in Hue: Cruise down the river and explore Thien Mu Pagoda on a bluff overlooking the Perfume River. From there, you’ll visit Hon Chen Temple, followed by Minh Mang and Gia Long tombs.

Enjoy a row through the caves in Tam Coc.

Orchard Trendy Cruise: Embrace the serenity of Ha Long Bay.

Accommodation of this Tour

Ho Chi Minh City:  Eden Star Saigon hotel (city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe room).

Hoi An:  La Senta Hoi An (nice boutique hotel, well-appointed in Hoi An town – Deluxe Rice Field view).

Hue: Eldora hotel (Located in the heart of the city within walking distance to many tourist attractions, exquisite style, spacious room – Deluxe Premier View).

Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter – Luxury City View room).

Tam Coc (Ninh Binh): Tam Coc Garden (eco garden lodge hotel in Tam Coc, Deluxe Tonkin Garden Bungalow).

Lan Ha Bay: Orchid Trendy Cruise (Deluxe quality boat with elegant design – Deluxe Balcony cabin).

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City & Evening Bike Street Food Tour

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City to start your Vietnam family tour. You’ll have some time to enjoy your hotel via transfer and then early evening will be a scooter food tour with a local rider. Exploring the different districts you’ll cover Ho Thi Ky flower market, experience fashion streets, various food vendors including Pho and Banh My. Lastly, you’ll see the famous Nguyen Thien Thuat area of the city.

✓ Dinner

Day 2: Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum & Ben Thanh Market

After breakfast you’ll driven to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a maze of underground passages used by the Vietminh and Viet Cong troops during the Vietnam war. You will have the option to visit the war remnants museum or the Reunification Palace. The afternoon will be spent enjoying the sites of the post office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the huge Ben Thanh Market. Evening will be free exploration of the city.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Mekong Delta, Villages & Cao Dai Temple Life

Mekong Delta by speedboat – this is a great family trip in Vietnam! First stop is Toung Van Pagoda followed a famous floating market full of local curiosities. From here you’ll experience the vast and expansive river system of the Mekong delta including local villages, rice paddies, farmhouse to sample coconuts and Mekong whisky. The afternoon will be spent exploring the colourful Cao Dai Temple and the Buddhist monks that run it. Evening in Ho Chi Minh.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Danang Flight & Hoi An Arrival

Morning flight to Danang and road transfer along the China beach to the ancient town of Hoi An. You’ll experience a walking trip of the history of this celebrated Vietnamese town. Enjoy the calmness of the lanterns at night and the life of the riverside with numerous tasty foods to try.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Hoi An Farmer to Fisherman Tour

This tour comes complete with cycling the farming communities with rice fields, water buffalos, bamboo bridges and local farmer’s daily work. Then it’s a boat trip where the Thu Bon estuary joins the Cua Dai Sea experiencing the lives of the local fisherman and basket boats through the water palm coconut canal. You can try your hand at fishing with the fisherman. Breakfast and lunch are included and with local guides to answer any questions.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Alternative option: Hoi An cooking class at Green Bamboo cooking school.

Day 6: Hue Transfer & City Tour

After breakfast you’ll be transferred to Hue along the mountain pass of Hai Van for some excellent views to enjoy. On arrival in Hue a guide will take on a tour of the Imperial Citadel that attracts so many visitors to this celebrated location in Vietnam’s history of royal families. Marvel at the lotus gardens and the palaces and pavilions in this lovingly restored complex. Great for photos.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Hue Royal Tombs Tour

Boat trip to visit the royal tombs in Hue. You’ll see the Thien Mu Pagoda via the Perfume River. Other sites visited include Hon Chen Temple, Minh Mang and Gia Long tombs and their respective gardens and grounds to enjoy.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Hanoi Flight & Street Food Tour

Morning free to enjoy Hue before flight to Hanoi. A half day street food tour of Hanoi enjoying many local dishes that can be extended by trying more varieties of the dishes on offer in the heralded streets of the Old Quarter. Enjoy the buzz of the nightlife in the capital city.

✓ Breakfast

Day 9: Hanoi City Tour & Water Puppet Show

The best of Hanoi – an excellent addition to a Vietnam family tour. Today you’ll enjoy the sites of interest including the Temple of literature, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Ho Tay (west) Lake, The Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple. In the evening you’ll see the water puppet show (unique to Northern Vietnam).

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10: Hoa Lu Transfer, Temple Visits & Mua Cave Cycle Tour

Morning transfer to Hoa Lu, the former capital of Vietnam. You’ll see two temples on arrival dedicated to past emperors and a small visit to the remains of the Old Palace. A transfer to Tam Coc for a bicycle ride to the Mua Caves. A climb of 486 steps awards the most amazing panoramic views and a perfect souvenir of photos for any traveller.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11: Ha long Bay Cruise & Cat Ba Island

After breakfast enjoy the wonderful countryside drive to Tuan Chau Marina for your cruise of the karst limestone landscape of Ha Long Bay. You’ll see connecting Lan Ha Bay, Trung Trang cave, Cat Ba Island, and its vast National Park. There are some less populated areas for a more tranquil experience, with onboard spa facilities, swimming in the emerald clear waters of the bay, and a cooking demonstration. Stay on the cruise ship in your own cabin. This will be one of the best trips in Vietnam!

✓ Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Lan Ha Bay Cruise & Hanoi Departure Flight

Morning exploration of Lan Ha Bay with breakfast and enjoying some kayaking activities for a different experience of the bay. A brunch will be supplied on your exit cruise for your transfer back to Hanoi for your departure flight. We hope you had the best family trip to Vietnam!

✓ Breakfast

Price

£2,347

– Price per person based on two-people group size.

– The price is subject to availability, based on twin or double room sharing.

– Peak season surcharges may apply during local public holidays.

Please note, this package is an example of our many exciting daily offers. We are happy to check up-to-date prices for the dates and times that suit you for your perfect package holiday, or to tailor or upgrade elements of any package. Please feel free to contact us at enquiry@asiara-holidays.com or call us on 01473 356 000.

Tour Map

Tour Summary

Day 1: Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, relax at the hotel, and embark on an evening bike street food tour.

Day 2: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels, explore War Remnants Museum or Reunification Palace, and discover Ben Thanh Market.

Day 3: Experience Mekong Delta by speedboat, visit local villages and Cao Dai Temple, then return to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 4: Fly to Danang, transfer to Hoi An, and enjoy a walking tour of the ancient town.

Day 5: Join a Farmer to Fisherman Tour in Hoi An, cycling through rice fields and experiencing local fishermen’s lives.

Day 6: Transfer to Hue via Hai Van Pass, explore Imperial Citadel, and capture stunning views.

Day 7: Take a boat trip to Hue’s royal tombs via Perfume River, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda and Minh Mang Tomb.

Day 8: Fly to Hanoi, embark on a street food tour, and immerse in the capital’s nightlife.

Day 9: Explore Hanoi’s highlights including Temple of Literature and enjoy a traditional water puppet show.

Day 10: Transfer to Hoa Lu, visit temples and Mua Caves for panoramic views.

Day 11: Cruise through Ha Long Bay, visit Cat Ba Island, and enjoy onboard activities and spa facilities.

Day 12: Explore Lan Ha Bay, indulge in kayaking, brunch onboard, and transfer back to Hanoi for departure.

FAQs

1. What is the duration of this Vietnam family tour?
   • The tour spans 12 days, offering a comprehensive exploration of various destinations in Vietnam.
2. What type of activities are included in the itinerary?
   • Activities range from cultural tours of historic sites and temples to culinary experiences such as street food tours and cooking classes, as well as scenic excursions like cruising through Ha Long Bay and cycling tours.
3. Are meals included in the tour package?
   • Yes, the tour package includes daily breakfast, as well as specified lunches and dinners at local eateries or onboard during cruises.
4. Are English-speaking guides provided throughout the tour?
   • Yes, experienced English-speaking guides accompany the tour group during scheduled activities, providing insights and assistance along the way.
5. What level of physical fitness is required for this tour?
   • While some activities involve walking tours and cycling, most are suitable for participants with moderate fitness levels. However, there are options for less physically demanding activities as well.
6. Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?
   • Yes, entrance fees to specified attractions mentioned in the itinerary, such as Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, and royal tombs in Hue, are included in the tour package.
7. What type of accommodations are provided during the tour?
   • Accommodations range from comfortable hotels in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi, to cabin accommodations aboard cruise ships during the Ha Long Bay excursion.