Best Things to Do in Vietnam with Family: A City-By-City Guide

Vietnam is a great country to explore with children, as it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, yet wonderfully accessible and affordable for families. From lantern-lit towns to world-class amusement parks, there’s something to suit all ages and travel styles. 

Here are four of the best places to visit in Vietnam with family in 2025, arranged into one guide for your easy comparison!

Also read: Best Places to Go in Thailand with Family: A City-By-City Guide

Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital is a cultural treasure trove, where families can dive into centuries of history, lively street scenes, and educational attractions in one place.

Start with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city and spot turtles near Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on a tiny island accessible by a bright red bridge. Just nearby, don’t miss the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, an enchanting show of colourful puppets dancing over water, accompanied by live traditional music. 

For a hands-on cultural experience, head to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, where children can explore full-size traditional houses outdoors and learn about Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups through interactive displays.

The city’s Old Quarter is another must, with its buzzing street food stalls and quirky shops; hop in a cyclo (three-wheeled rickshaw) for a fun way to explore. When everyone needs a break, West Lake offers open green spaces, pedal boats, and plenty of cafés with lakeside views.

Also read: Singapore to Hanoi by Train: An Extraordinary Journey in 19 Days

Hoi An

Hoi An offers a gentle, picturesque introduction to Vietnam with its lantern-strewn streets, calm riverfront, and creative workshops. It’s perfect for families seeking a slower pace.

The Ancient Town is a delight to explore on foot or by bicycle, with pedestrian-friendly streets lined with yellow-painted heritage buildings. You can also get hands-on by joining a lantern-making class. 

A gentle boat ride on the Thu Bon River at sunset offers lovely views and a relaxing way to enjoy the atmosphere before the day’s end.

When it’s time to cool off, An Bang Beach, just a short drive away, offers soft sand and gentle surf ideal for little swimmers. Or if you prefer an exciting day out, head to VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a family-friendly theme park that combines cultural exhibits with water slides and animal encounters!

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh is packed with fascinating museums, green parks and indoor play centres, perfect for families wanting to spend their time in a big and busy city.

Begin at the War Remnants Museum, which, while intense for very young kids, offers older children a compelling look at Vietnam’s modern history through photographs, preserved aircraft and tanks. For something more light-hearted, the Artinus 3D Art Museum is a family favourite.

There’s also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, an enormous, Vietnamese-mythology-themed amusement park with rollercoasters, water rides and live shows. If the heat gets too much, indoor centres like KizCiti let children role-play careers in a mini city built just for them.

To wind down, head to Tao Dan Park or take a river cruise along the Saigon River for a peaceful view of the skyline. The city’s growing café culture also means there are plenty of places to stop for snacks, juices or Vietnamese iced coffee for the grown-ups.

Da Nang

This coastal city strikes a great balance between urban convenience and outdoor adventure, with beaches, cable cars, and even dragons.

Families flock to My Khe Beach for its clean sands, calm waters, and relaxed vibe. It’s ideal for a morning of swimming or building sandcastles before the sun gets too hot. Adventurous families can explore the nearby Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone and marble peaks with caves, pagodas, and lookouts. 

In the city centre, the Dragon Bridge is a spectacle in itself, especially at weekends when it breathes fire and water during an evening show. 

For a day of escapism, take the cable car up to Ba Na Hills, home to the Instagram-famous Golden Bridge (held up by giant stone hands), as well as fantasy-style gardens, a small amusement park, and alpine-style architecture that kids will find magical.

Also read: Da Nang Travel Guide: How I Made My Trip Smoother and Cheaper! 

Nha Trang

If your ideal family holiday involves sun, sea, and plenty of entertainment, Nha Trang ticks all the boxes with its island amusement parks and laid-back beach life.

Top of the list is Vinpearl Land, located on Hon Tre Island and accessible by cable car or ferry. This sprawling resort-style park includes water slides, rollercoasters, a large aquarium, and even a small zoo. 

Back on the mainland, Nha Trang Beach offers clear waters and a long promenade with play areas and beach cafés that make it easy to spend a relaxed afternoon by the sea. Families can also join a boat trip to nearby islands, where calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginner snorkelling and spotting marine life. 

For a bit of culture, the Po Nagar Cham Towers are well-preserved remnants of a Hindu civilisation, offering a scenic spot to explore and learn about Vietnam’s early history.

Also read: A Guide to Sapa, Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Very Own Switzerland

Your new dream holiday location

Vietnam is a truly versatile destination for families, with each city offering its own blend of discovery, fun, and cultural richness. Your family is sure to come away with memories to treasure. 

With excellent value for money, family-friendly hospitality, and a growing range of activities for children, Vietnam deserves a spot on your 2025 travel list.