9 Day Family Trip to Vietnam

Highlights of the Trip

Getting the family together for a grand adventure is a great way to bond with each other and create memories that will last a lifetime. Vietnam is the ideal destination for such a getaway. With its vibrant cities, lush jungles, and shimmering coastlines, it offers something for everyone. A 9-day family adventure holiday to Vietnam promises an unforgettable experience.

This family trip to Vietnam begins in bustling Ho Chi Minh City, known for its thriving metropolis and rich history. From there, families can explore the vibrant cityscape of the city, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavours at the numerous markets and street scenes. Attractions like the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Royal Palace, and the Central Market also provide exciting opportunities for exploration.

From Ho Chi Minh, the family can fly to the majestic capital of Hanoi. With its iconic French colonial architecture, magical night markets, and bustling Old Quarter, Hanoi is a spectacular backdrop for the getaway. Families can cruise around the famous Hoan Kiem Lake, take a cooking class, and explore some of the city’s majestic temples.

Next on the itinerary is the shimmering waters of Ha Long Bay – a must visit for the ultimate Vietnam Travel. Here, adventurers can take in the stunning limestone karts and caves, and spot wildlife like monkeys, eagles, and seahorses while cruising around the bay. This is one of the best Vietnam tours families can experience.

Another key stop is Mui Ne, a beach paradise located on Vietnam’s central coast. Families can spend their days here sunbathing on the white sandy beaches, going fishing, and sand surfing down the sand dunes.

Finally, the trip can end with a boat ride through the lush rivers and canals of the Mekong Delta. Here, families can spot water buffalo, visit floating markets, and even take part in local cooking classes.

A 9-day family adventure holiday to Vietnam promises an incredible opportunity to explore the country’s unique sights and cultures. With its bustling cities, stunning coastlines, lush jungles, and the best Vietnam tours, families will create memories that will last a lifetime.

Destinations and the Landmarks / Sights to Visit

Ho Chi Minh

• Tuong Van Pagoda: A historic and cultural treasure that has been standing for over 800 years.
• Orphanage run by Buddhist monks: A shining example of the power of love, kindness, and dedication.
• Cao Dai Temple: A stunning example of religious architecture, with a decorative exterior featuring intricate mosaics, carvings, and sculptures.

Hanoi

• Temple of Literature: Originally built in 1070 as a Confucian temple, it not only served as a place of worship but also as Vietnam’s first national university.
• Tran Quoc Pagoda: This is considered to be the oldest pagoda in the country, with a history dating back over 1,400 years.
• Old Quarter: This ancient neighbourhood is the heart and soul of the city, with its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and bustling markets.

Cultural Experiences & Activities of this Holiday

Ho Thi Ky Flower Market: Enjoy an evening street food tour of this market. The market is known for its diverse range of flowers and plants, with over 1000 different species being sold daily. It has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for over 30 years.

Riverside Market: During your boat ride, visit a colourful riverside market. This offers a glimpse into the daily lives of locals. In the mornings, you can witness fishermen bringing in their catch from the river, while in the afternoons, the local farmers come to sell their fresh produce.

Traditional Water Puppetry: While in Hanoi, you can experience this artform. It is believed to have originated in the Red River Delta region of Vietnam and has been an integral part of the country’s culture and heritage.

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 fragrant and hearty soup consisting of rice noodles, herbs, and either beef or chicken. Served with a side plate of bean sprouts, lime, basil, and chili, pho is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine and can be found on almost every street corner. Another dish that cannot be missed is banh mi, a delicious sandwich filled with a variety of meats, pickled veggies, and flavourful sauces. Originally a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, banh mi has become a national favourite and is perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Water-based Activities and Cruises

Mekong Delta by Speedboat: Visit a riverside house with Burmese pythons, a village and surrounding rice paddies, and a farmhouse to sample coconuts and Mekong whisky. Or, you may stop by a local merchant and try a range of local produce, whisky and wine, walk along the river to a traditional home where 3 generations live, and explore a village where you can try coconuts fresh from the tree.

Ha Long Bay Cruise: Visit Gia Luan Cat Ba, Hoa Cuong area, Ba Hang area, and Thien Cung cave. This also includes kayaking or a bamboo trip.

Accommodation of this Tour

• Ho Chi Minh City: Eden Star Saigon hotel (city centre location, nice rooftop swimming pool – Premium Deluxe Room).
• Mui Ne: The Anam Mui Ne (Beautiful 5-star beach resort with award winning cuisine and spa treatment – Deluxe Room).
• Hanoi: MK Premier Boutique Hotel (a Vietnamese style hotel, located in the Hanoi Old quarter – Luxury City View room).
• Ha Long Bay (Day Trip): Authentic Sail Ha Long.

Itinerary

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

Upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be greeted by your driver who will take you to your hotel. In the evening, you will embark on an exciting and one of the best Vietnam tours of Saigon by scooter, sampling delicious local food along the way. Accompanied by a friendly and knowledgeable local rider, you will weave through the narrow streets and alleys of Saigon, exploring different districts and hidden corners. You will visit Chinatown and an evening local market before heading to Ho Thi Ky wholesale flower market. Here, you will have the opportunity to take a walk through the bustling market and even learn how to make crispy banana crackers. Then, hop back on the scooter and enjoy a scenic 30-minute ride through alleyways, past fashion shops, food vendors, and a popular walking park where locals exercise at night.

After the exhilarating scooter ride, you will stop at a local eatery to savour some Pho (Beef Noodle Soup) and Banh My (Vietnam’s most famous street food). Then, you will head to Nguyen Thien Thuat area, renowned for its diverse cuisine and rich local culture. Here, you will have the chance to taste a variety of dishes from different regions of Vietnam, as this area is home to many people from all over the country. Lastly, your guide will take you to a popular local drinking spot where you can relax, chat, and learn more about the city’s cuisine and way of life, while sipping on some beer or a soft drink. Your tour will conclude around 10:00 PM.

Please note: Vegetarian food can be arranged.

✓ Dinner

Day 2: Mekong Delta Life Boat Trip

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the pier for a full day tour of the Mekong Delta by speedboat. You will leave the busy streets of Saigon and enter the lush, green waterways of the Delta. On board, a light breakfast will be served as you make your way through narrow canals.

Your first stop will be Tuong Van Pagoda, where your guide will explain the significance of Buddhism in the delta. Next, you will visit a lively riverside market filled with local goods, exotic fruits, and an array of fish and shellfish. This is a great opportunity for some photos.

You will then reach the expansive Mekong Delta known as the Delta of Nine Dragons, due to the 9 distributaries that branch off from the main river. Travelling through the delta, you will reach the quaint Thu Thua area where you can explore the winding canals shaded by dense foliage. Here, you may have the chance to visit a riverside home that houses large Burmese pythons, a village and its surrounding rice paddies, and a farmhouse where you can sample coconuts and Mekong whisky.

Alternatively, you may stop at a local merchant to try a variety of local products, whiskey, and wine, take a walk along the river to a traditional home where three generations live, and visit a village to taste fresh coconuts straight from the tree. This will give you a fascinating glimpse into life in the Mekong Delta (Your guide may combine elements from both routes).

After lunch at a local pagoda, you will visit an orphanage run by Buddhist monks and then explore a vibrant Cao Dai Temple before cruising back to Ho Chi Minh City.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Mui Ne Transfer & Beach Relaxation

Start your day with a scenic drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet, followed by a visit to the picturesque Mui Ne beach. Here, you can spend your time however you please – whether it’s unwinding, taking a dip in the sea, or soaking up the sun. Your comfortable accommodation will be right on the beach in a hotel.

While Phan Thiet town may not have much to offer, except for a high-end hotel and an excellent golf course, the nearby Mui Ne beach is renowned for its expansive sandy stretches and impressive sand dunes. With a variety of beachfront hotels to choose from, ranging from charming bamboo villas to bungalows, each with beautiful and well-maintained gardens, privacy and tranquillity are guaranteed. Dotted along the beach road are numerous dining options, serving a mix of local and international cuisine. Other than taking long walks on the 18 km beach and enjoying the pleasant evenings, there are not many activities in Mui Ne, except for the option to visit the golf course in Phan Thiet.

✓ Breakfast

Day 4 and 5: Mui Ne Beach Resort

Relax and enjoy your free time during your family trip to Vietnam!

✓ Breakfast

Day 6: Mui Ne, Hanoi Flight & Water Puppet Show

Today during your Vietnam travel, you will have the entire day to yourself to pursue any activities you desire, until it’s time to depart for Tan Son Nhat airport for your flight to Hanoi. In the evening, you will have tickets to attend a traditional Water Puppetry performance, a charming and playful representation of rural life in northern Vietnam.

✓ Breakfast

Day 7: Hanoi City Tour

During your visit to Vietnam’s capital city, you will have an entire day to immerse yourself in its culture and history. During one of the best Vietnam tours, a knowledgeable guide will accompany you to several significant landmarks, such as the Temple of Literature. This ancient site, constructed in the 11th century, was the first university in Vietnam and continues to be a popular tourist destination. You will also get to see Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, where the revered leader lived and worked, as well as a museum dedicated to his memory.

After enjoying a delicious lunch, you will get the opportunity to visit the tranquil Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest temple in Hanoi, located along the peaceful Ho Tay Lake. Next, you will experience the bustling energy of the Old Quarter, a vibrant hub of shopping streets, diverse cuisine, and a mix of architectural styles such as traditional tube houses, religious buildings, artisans’ workshops, colonial houses, and modern structures.

Optional activity: Arrive in Bat Trang to explore the quaint alleys and witness the local artisans creating their beautiful products. You’ll also have the chance to visit several houses that serve as both workshops and showrooms. After exploring Bat Trang, you’ll hop on bicycles and ride along the scenic riverside, passing through the surrounding villages of Hanoi. The leisurely bike ride covers approximately 7km on a peaceful road that runs alongside a tributary of the Red River. Next, you’ll be driven to Dong Ho village, renowned for its traditional paintings. This will be followed by a picnic lunch before heading to Tam Tao village, where you’ll be treated to a performance of Quan Ho music by the talented local singers at the commune house. These singers have been officially recognized as part of Vietnam’s ‘living heritage’.

✓ Breakfast

Day 8: Ha Long Bay Cruise 

In the morning, a shuttle bus will pick you up after breakfast to depart for Ha Long Bay. This stunning location is a UNESCO World Heritage Area and boasts the world’s largest karst landscape made of marine limestone. Upon arriving at Tuan Chau harbour, you will board the Authentic Sail Halong. Indulge in a lunch of delicious Vietnamese specialties and fresh seafood while cruising towards Gia Luan Cat Ba area. Here, we will take a smaller boat to explore the breath-taking scenery. Our journey will then continue through Hoa Cuong area, where we can marvel at the thousands of limestone islands peppered throughout the bay.

Following your journey, you will arrive at the enchanting Hoa Cuong area, nestled in the heart of Ha Long Bay. Within this picturesque locale, the grandeur of limestone cliffs envelops you in a world of alluring wilderness. Like a slumbering princess, the unspoiled beauty of Hoa Cuong awaits your arrival. In particular, you will be awestruck by the sight of a monumental limestone islet jutting out from the crystal waters, aptly named Thumb Rock. As a testament to nature’s benevolence, Thumb Rock conveys a message of serenity to all who pass through Ha Long Bay. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the magnificence of this spot. In the afternoon, a visit to the fish farm and floating house is in store, before the cruise sets off towards the Ba Hang area. During this journey, you will encounter iconic landmarks such as Dog Rock, Duck Rock, Fighting Cock Rock, and Lu Hung Islet, formerly known as Ba Hang fishing village. After the villagers relocated, Ba Hang remains a hidden gem, awaiting discovery. Take the opportunity to paddle through its charming tunnels on a 45-minute kayak or bamboo boat excursion.

Explore one of the most stunning caves in Ha Long Bay, Thien Cung cave. With the guidance of our expert, take a journey through this extraordinary museum of natural beauty, crafted with precision by Mother Nature. As the day winds down, you will be transported back to Hanoi via shuttle bus for your overnight stay.

✓ Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9: Hanoi Departure Flight

Free morning in Hanoi before departure flight from Noi Bai airport.

✓ Breakfast

Price

£1,724

– 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, where you’ll be greeted and taken to your hotel. Later, embark on an exciting street food tour by scooter, exploring Chinatown, local markets, and diverse cuisines.

Day 2: Explore the Mekong Delta by speedboat, visiting Tuong Van Pagoda, a riverside market, and the Thu Thua area for a glimpse of local life, followed by lunch at a pagoda and a visit to an orphanage and Cao Dai Temple before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Travel to Phan Thiet and relax on the picturesque Mui Ne beach, enjoying the sandy stretches and serene surroundings.

Day 4 and 5: Enjoy free time at the beach resort, unwinding and exploring the surroundings.

Day 6: Relax until your flight to Hanoi, then attend a traditional Water Puppetry performance in the evening.

Day 7: Discover Hanoi’s culture and history with visits to landmarks like the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Old Quarter.

Day 8: Embark on a cruise to Ha Long Bay, marvelling at its limestone karsts, exploring caves, visiting a fish farm, and enjoying kayaking or bamboo boat excursions.

Day 9: Enjoy a free morning in Hanoi before departing for your flight home.

FAQs

1. What should I expect from the street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City?
   • You’ll embark on an exhilarating scooter ride through Chinatown and local markets, sampling diverse cuisines like Pho and Banh My, and immersing yourself in the vibrant street food culture.
2. What are the highlights of the Mekong Delta Life Boat Trip?
   • Highlights include visiting Tuong Van Pagoda, exploring a riverside market, experiencing local life in the Thu Thua area, visiting an orphanage and Cao Dai Temple, and enjoying a scenic speedboat ride.
3. Can I customize my activities during the Mui Ne beach relaxation days?
   • Absolutely! You’ll have ample free time to explore Mui Ne beach at your own pace, whether it’s swimming, sunbathing, or exploring nearby attractions like Phan Thiet town and golf courses.
4. What’s included in the Hanoi city tour?
   • The Hanoi city tour covers significant landmarks such as the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and the Old Quarter, offering insights into the city’s rich history and culture.
5. What can I expect during the Ha Long Bay cruise?
   • During the Ha Long Bay cruise, you’ll marvel at limestone karsts, explore caves like Thien Cung cave, visit a fish farm, and enjoy activities like kayaking or bamboo boat excursions amidst stunning natural scenery.
6. Are there vegetarian options available during the tour?
   • Yes, vegetarian food options can be arranged for meals included in the itinerary. Please inform us in advance of any dietary preferences or restrictions.
7. How much free time will I have during the tour?
   • You’ll have free time to explore and relax on certain days, allowing you to tailor your experience according to your preferences and interests.