13 day itinerary
Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand
Itinerary
Planning a family-friendly itinerary for Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand sounds like an exciting adventure! With a 4-year-old in tow, we’ll want to balance sightseeing with plenty of downtime and fun activities. Here’s a 13-day itinerary that should keep everyone happy and engaged!
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi, Vietnam
- Morning: Arrive in Hanoi. Check into a family-friendly hotel (look for ones with amenities for kids).
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around . Let your little one feed the fish and enjoy the park.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) – it’s a must!
Day 2: Explore Hanoi
- Morning: Visit the . It’s interactive and has outdoor exhibits that kids love.
- Afternoon: Head to the . Explore the narrow streets and maybe take a short cyclo ride (pedicab) – your child will love it!
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form that’s entertaining for all ages.
Day 3: Day Trip
- All Day: Take a day trip to . Choose a family-friendly cruise that includes activities like kayaking or visiting caves. The scenery is breathtaking, and your child will enjoy the boat ride!
- Evening: Return to Hanoi and have a relaxing dinner.
Day 4: Fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Morning: Fly to Siem Reap. Check into a family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the . It’s engaging for kids and gives a great introduction to the temples.
- Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a kid-friendly menu. Consider a place with a cultural show.
Day 5: and Surroundings
- Morning: Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat. Bring a stroller or carrier for your little one.
- Afternoon: Explore (the “Tomb Raider” temple). The trees and ruins are fascinating for kids.
- Evening: Relax at the hotel or take a stroll through the night market.
Day 6: More Temples and Local Culture
- Morning: Visit , known for its intricate carvings. It’s a bit further out but worth it!
- Afternoon: Visit a local village or take a boat ride on . Kids love seeing the floating houses and wildlife.
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Khmer dishes!
Day 7: Fly to Bangkok, Thailand
- Morning: Fly to Bangkok. Check into a family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the . It’s an aquarium that will surely delight your little one.
- Evening: Dinner at a riverside restaurant. Enjoy the views of the Chao Phraya River.
Day 8: Explore Bangkok
- Morning: Visit the and (home of the reclining Buddha). The colors and architecture are stunning!
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride through the canals (khlongs) of Thonburi. It’s a fun way to see the city from a different perspective.
- Evening: Explore Asiatique, a night market with shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel!
Day 9: Day Trip to
- All Day: Take a day trip to , the ancient capital. Rent bikes or take a tuk-tuk to explore the ruins. Kids love the open spaces!
- Evening: Return to Bangkok and have a relaxing dinner.
Day 10: Fly to Chiang Mai
- Morning: Fly to Chiang Mai. Check into a family-friendly hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the . It has a great variety of animals and a fun aquarium.
- Evening: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 11:
- All Day: Visit an ethical elephant sanctuary. Many places offer family-friendly experiences where you can feed and bathe the elephants. It’s a memorable experience for both kids and adults!
- Evening: Return to Chiang Mai and relax at your hotel.
Day 12: Explore Chiang Mai
- Morning: Visit the . The views are stunning, and the temple is beautiful. You can take a tram up if your little one gets tired.
- Afternoon: Explore the and visit some local markets. Let your child pick out a small souvenir!
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Khantoke dinner with cultural performances.
Day 13: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping or a visit to a local park.
- Afternoon: Fly back home or to your next destination.
Tips for Traveling with a 4-Year-Old:
- Pack Snacks: Always have snacks and water on hand for your little one.
- Stroller/Carrier: A lightweight stroller or carrier can be a lifesaver for long days of exploring.
- Downtime: Don’t forget to schedule some downtime for naps or playtime at the hotel.
- Engage Them: Involve your child in the planning process. Let them choose a few activities or meals!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️
