3 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that’s perfect for families with children. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with some delicious Vietnamese breakfast. Try “phở” (noodle soup) or “bánh mì” (Vietnamese sandwich) at a local café. Kids usually love the flavors!
• Visit Hoan Kiem Lake: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. The serene atmosphere is perfect for a family walk. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Turtle Tower in the middle of the lake!

Midday:

• Lunch at a Family-Friendly Restaurant: Head to a restaurant that offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes. “Cha Ca” (grilled fish) is a must-try, and many places have kid-friendly options.
• Explore the Old Quarter: After lunch, wander through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. The vibrant shops and street vendors will keep the kids entertained. You can even try some local snacks like “bánh tráng” (rice paper) or “kem” (ice cream).

Afternoon:

• Water Puppet Show: Book tickets for a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. The colorful puppets and live music will captivate both kids and adults!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Eatery: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some “bun cha” (grilled pork with noodles) or “com tam” (broken rice).
• Night Market: If you’re up for it, explore the night market in the Old Quarter. It’s a great place for souvenirs and street food!

## Day 2: Day Trip to Halong Bay

Morning:

• Early Breakfast and Departure: Have an early breakfast at your hotel, then take a scenic drive to Halong Bay (about 2.5 hours). The kids will love the views along the way!
• Cruise on Halong Bay: Board a family-friendly cruise. Many cruises offer activities like kayaking or swimming, which are perfect for kids. Don’t forget to take lots of photos of the stunning limestone islands!

Midday:

• Lunch on the Boat: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board. Many cruises cater to children’s tastes, so you can ask for simpler options if needed.

Afternoon:

• Explore Sung Sot Cave: After lunch, visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave). The kids will be amazed by the stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a fun adventure exploring the cave!
• Swimming or Kayaking: If time allows, let the kids swim or kayak in the calm waters. It’s a great way to cool off and have some fun!

Evening:

• Return to Hanoi: Head back to Hanoi in the late afternoon.
• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some “pho cuon” (fresh spring rolls) or “goi cuon” (Vietnamese spring rolls).

## Day 3: Cultural and Historical Exploration

Morning:

• Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: After breakfast, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The kids will learn about Vietnam’s history, and the grand architecture is impressive!
• Explore the One Pillar Pagoda: Just a short walk away, this unique pagoda is a great photo spot and a fun place for kids to explore.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. “Mi Quang” (Quang noodles) is a delicious option that the whole family can enjoy.

Afternoon:

• Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: Head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. It’s very kid-friendly, with interactive exhibits and outdoor displays. The kids can learn about the diverse cultures of Vietnam in a fun way!
• Playtime at a Local Park: If the kids need to burn off some energy, find a nearby park where they can run around and play.

Evening:

• Dinner and Relaxation: For your last dinner in Vietnam, choose a restaurant with a view. Enjoy some “banh xeo” (Vietnamese pancakes) or “cơm gà” (chicken rice).
• Evening Stroll: Take a final evening stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, soaking in the beautiful night lights and reflecting on your wonderful trip!

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

• Always have snacks and water on hand.
• Consider using a stroller for younger children, especially in busy areas.
• Engage the kids with stories about the places you visit to keep them interested.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Vietnam with your family! Enjoy your adventure! 🌏✈️