Vietnam is becoming one of the top family travel destinations in Southeast Asia, offering a mix of culture, nature, beaches, and hands-on experiences that children genuinely enjoy. From boat rides through limestone landscapes to lantern-making workshops and safe beach days, families traveling in Vietnam can easily balance fun and exploration.

This guide highlights the best kid-friendly activities in Vietnam to help families plan a memorable trip.

Why Vietnam Is Great for Family Travel

Vietnam is especially suitable for family vacations because:

• Travel costs are affordable for families
• Food is fresh and adaptable for kids
• Hotels and resorts often welcome families
• Domestic flights make travel easy
• Many activities are outdoor and interactive

Families can mix cultural visits with playtime, beaches, and nature adventures.

1. Boat Trips in Halong Bay and Ninh Binh

A boat experience is often the highlight of a Vietnam family trip.

Halong Bay Cruises

Families can:

• Sleep overnight on cruise boats
• Kayak or swim in calm bays
• Visit caves and beaches
• Explore floating villages

Many cruises now offer family cabins and kid-friendly menus.

Ninh Binh Boat Ride

Often called Halong Bay on land, Ninh Binh offers:

• Rowboat trips through caves
• Peaceful river scenery
• Easy cycling around villages

Best for children aged 4 and above.

2. Lantern-Making Workshops in Hoi An

Hoi An is one of the most family-friendly towns in Vietnam.

Kids can:

• Make traditional lanterns
• Paint crafts and masks
• Join cooking classes
• Explore car-free Old Town streets

Children love creating souvenirs they can bring home.

3. Beach Time in Da Nang, Hoi An & Phu Quoc

Beach days help balance sightseeing with relaxation.

Best Beaches for Families

• My Khe Beach, Da Nang
• An Bang Beach, Hoi An
• Phu Quoc Island beaches
• Nha Trang beaches

Many beach resorts have kids pools and family rooms, making them perfect for longer stays.

4. Cycling Through Villages and Rice Fields

Easy countryside cycling is safe and enjoyable.

Popular areas include:

• Hoi An countryside
• Ninh Binh villages
• Mai Chau - Pu Luong villages
• Mekong Delta backroads
• Hue rural areas

Kids enjoy seeing buffalo, farms, and local life.

5. Basket Boat Rides in Central Vietnam

Basket boats in coconut forests near Hoi An and Da Nang are a fun cultural activity.

Families can:

• Ride in round bamboo boats
• Watch boat spinning performances
• Try simple crab fishing

This activity is entertaining and suitable for young children.

6. Vietnamese Cooking Classes for Families

Cooking classes are interactive and fun for children.

Kids enjoy:

• Rolling fresh spring rolls
• Learning to cook Vietnamese dishes
• Visiting local markets
• Tasting food they helped prepare

Many schools offer family-friendly sessions.

7. Sleeper Train Experience

Taking an overnight train in Vietnam can be exciting for kids.

Children enjoy:

• Sleeping in bunk cabins
• Watching scenery change
• Buying snacks on board

Popular routes include Hanoi–Sapa and Hue–Da Nang.

8. National Parks and Nature Adventures

Vietnam offers many outdoor adventures suitable for families.

Good options include:

• Phong Nha caves and boat rides
• Mekong Delta river tours
• Ba Na Hills cable car rides
• Island excursions near Nha Trang and Phu Quoc

These activities give children space to explore nature.

9. Theme Parks and Entertainment Centers

Theme parks offer easy fun days between cultural visits.

Popular parks include:

• Ba Na Hills near Da Nang
• VinWonders Phu Quoc
• VinWonders Nha Trang
• Sun World parks across Vietnam

Rides, cable cars, shows, and indoor play zones appeal to all ages.

10. Night Markets and Street Food Walks

Night markets provide safe and lively evening entertainment.

Kids enjoy:

• Trying local snacks
• Watching performers
• Shopping for souvenirs
• Exploring colorful streets

Best cities for night markets include Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Tips for Traveling Vietnam with Kids

To make your trip smoother:

• Avoid changing cities too often
• Choose hotels with pools
• Plan rest time during hot afternoons
• Mix sightseeing with play activities
• Use private transfers for comfort

Slow travel works best with children.

Vietnam offers one of the best combinations of culture, nature, and family-friendly experiences in Asia. With beaches, boat rides, crafts, food adventures, and outdoor exploration, children remain engaged while parents enjoy the journey.

A well-paced Vietnam trip can easily become a favorite family travel memory.