Planning a Family Trip to Vietnam from the UK
Vietnam is quite a popular destination for travelling with the family. Whether enjoying vibrant city life or relaxing on beaches, the country provides a pocket-friendly package of beautiful places, unique cuisines, and rich cultures. As per the data published by the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the country embraced the visits of around 294 thousand arrivals from the UK. The application for e-visa to Vietnam makes it easier.
For the increased accessibility, like kid-friendly accommodations with pools and kids’ clubs, the country has been an attractive destination for the families.
In this blog, we will outline everything you need to know before a family trip to Vietnam, including the itinerary and whether a Vietnam visa extension for tourists is possible.
Why is Vietnam Perfect for a Family Holiday?
The diversity in the landscape of Vietnam is one of the prime reasons people prefer to travel there with families. The cities like Ho Chi Minh are charming. On the other hand, some places add a touch of age-old traditions, like Hoi An. The beaches like Nha Trang or Mui Ne give a relaxing vibe to families visiting Vietnam across the world.
The culture of Vietnam is highly influenced by Chinese rule, Khmer, and Champa kingdoms. Besides, there was French colonial influence that gave rise to the cultural tapestries emphasizing family values. The calm demeanor and family loyalty are a great part of Vietnamese culture.
Besides, the cost-effectiveness in every aspect like food, shopping, and accommodations made the destination quite popular for family visits.
Best Time to Visit Vietnam with Your Family
People love to visit Vietnam at various times of the year. The report of Vietnam Tourist Arrivals showcased a 39.5% increase in the number of foreign tourists in 2024. The application for e-visa to Vietnam makes the process quicker and easier.
Seasonal Weather Guide
If you want to trek with your family, you must avoid the hot and humid summer months. The time right after the monsoon is ideal for trekking under a clear sky.
March to April and between September and November are the ideal times to enjoy Vietnam beaches.
The time between December and April is perfect for cruising in Halong Bay.
Peak vs. Off-Peak Travel
The table details the major differences between travelling in peak and off-peak seasons with e-visa in Vietnam–
| Factors to Consider | Peak Season | Off-Peak Season |
| Travel Time | Longer travel time | Shorter travel time |
| Fare | Higher | Lower |
| The flow of the Trave | Higher | Lower |
| Travel Experience | Longer lines and more crowds | Fewer crowds and more scope to explore |
| Accessibility and Security | Higher | Lower |
Planning Your Itinerary: Must-Visit Family-Friendly Destinations
There are a few places that are a must-visit. Here is an itinerary of touring Vietnam’s family-friendly spots.
Hanoi
For day 1 in Hanoi, visit historical sites like the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Begin day 2 by visiting the Old Quarter, then reach Hoan Kiem Lake and complete your day visiting Hoa Lo Prison or Hanoi Hilton.
On day 3, you can take your kids to the Water Puppet Theatre. You can enjoy a food tour or have a relaxing sunset dinner in the Old Quarter.
Halong Bay
Enjoy Day 1 with visits to popular places like Titop Island or Sung Sot Cave.
On day 2, enjoy the luxurious stay on the cruise and the mesmerizing beauty of Ha Long Bay. Make sure that the cruise line offers family-friendly amenities.
Also, choose the destinations that precisely suit the family’s comfort and needs.
Hoi An
With the e-visa in Vietnam, UK travelers can enjoy Hoi An, a beautiful town with lantern-lit streets, on a bicycle or foot for the ultimate relaxation on day 1.
On day 2, visit My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountains with your family.
Start your day 3 with the freshness of local cuisines, shop the tailored clothing items, and wander in the vibrant market at night.
Ho Chi Minh City
Visiting Ho Chi Minh City must begin by exploring the historical places in the city, like the War Remnants Museum, which would be a learning hub for the kids. Then, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the era of the Vietnam War.
On day 2, start enjoying the Mekong Delta for the beautiful floating markets and boat rides.
Phu Quoc Island
Enjoy the Sao Beach and Vinpearl Safari on day 1 in Phu Quoc Island. Complete the day by enjoying the Dinh Cau market at night.
Start day 2 with a visit to Ham Ninh Fishing Village and then reach the National Park of Phu Quoc.
Enjoy the beautiful sunset at Sanato Beach Club before you return to your homeland.
Travel Logistics: From the UK to Vietnam
Considering the tickets and other requirements, like an e-visa in Vietnam, is crucial for a successful trip.
Flights and Travel Times
The flights from the UK to Vietnam come with the direct options that Vietnam Airlines offers. This airline connects both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from the London Heathrow Airport. The connecting flights include the Emirates, Singapore, Turkish, and Qatar airlines with layover options in the respective spots. However, to manage the flights with kids, consider the following tips:.
- Hydrate them properly.
- Choose or alter the seats as and when required.
- Avoid feeding them sugary drinks.
Visas and Entry Requirements
UK travelers must research reputable sites for facilitating tours to Vietnam. The information that we provide is substantial for applying for an e-visa in Vietnam beforehand online from any location.
Currency and Budgeting
It is always commendable to use cash instead of cards as the primary transaction mode. Rely on reputable banks or exchange booths for exchanging the currencies from the Pound Sterling to Vietnamese Dong at the best rates. Be aware of the huge dominations and make sure you have smaller bills for everyday use.
Accommodation Options for Families
Trying to accommodate families within the budget in an international location is a critical task. However, this becomes easy with a proper guide.
Hotels with Family Suites
The following hotels offer top-tier family accommodation solutions:
- Mayflower Hotel Hanoi
- Au Lac Charner Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City
- Hanoi Royal Palace Hotel
Homestays and Airbnb
Holiday rentals are highly attractive options to accommodate large families and enjoy the exciting beauties of Vietnam.
- Villa in An Phu
- Villa in Phu Quoc
- Villa in Thanh Pho Hoi An
Resorts with Kids’ Clubs
Kids love it when there are clubs for different activities in their accommodation near beaches. So, the recommended ones are-
- Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort
- Ninh Van Bay Resort
- Family Beach Pool
Family-Friendly Activities and Experiences
Vietnam is the ultimate location for enjoying interactive activities with families. The country offers beautiful experiences to cherish for the rest of your life.
Interactive Cultural Activities
Engage in exciting lantern-making activities in Hoi An and choose silk to craft bamboo frames for lanterns with the help of your instructor. Besides lanterns, touring the farms and taking cooking classes with the locals are some of the most interesting activities for families visiting Vietnam.
Outdoor Adventures
While applying for an e-visa in Vietnam, people start creating a checklist for the adventures. Families can enjoy activities like:
- Diving in Nha Trang between April and August
- Caving in Phong Nha between February and August
- Hot Air Balloon Ride in Phan Thiet between November and April
- Trekking in Sapa between March and May or September and November
Relaxation and Fun
Beach relaxation is the ultimate attraction of the Vietnam visit. Phu Quoc Island is perfect for enjoying beaches like Ong Lang Beach, Sao Beach, and Long Beach. The best time to visit them lies between November and March.
Tips for Traveling to Vietnam with Kids
Considering a few things is essential while travelling with the kids. These are-
Pack essentials: Packing the First aid kit, snacks, proper clothing, including the swimsuit, and items for keeping the kids entertained is a must.
Know about the cuisine: You must enjoy Vietnamese cuisine. But keep in mind that authentic food can be quite different from what you are used to in your country, and choose places that locals recommend. Street food is delectable, but ensure you can tolerate the spice levels before indulging. Proper water consumption by the family members can keep them safe from dehydration and diseases.
Arrange transport: Choosing easy travelling options like trains, private transfers, and domestic flights for the comfort of the family.
Be respectful: Engaging with the local traditions and teaching the kids to pay respect to the elders. Appreciating the uniqueness of Vietnamese culture as a part of cultural etiquette.
What if You Overstay?
Overstaying your tourist visa in Vietnam is not an option, as it can attract hefty penalties. It is not possible to get a Vietnam visa extension for tourists in the country, so you must ensure that your itinerary covers the must-visit spots within the time frame. Allow yourself a day to relax before you depart, and stay in the area of your hotel. If you are traveling with children or the elderly, plan a trip that does not include extremely strenuous activities; medical emergencies might force you to overstay your visa.
Ready to Make Memories in Vietnam with Your Family?
Families from abroad like the UK love visiting the country with e-visa in Vietnam by filling out the online application form. This is the easiest step to getting an authentic legal permit. To enjoy the unique culture of Vietnam and embrace beach vibes, booking the flight and filling out the form for evisa to Vietnam are only two prerequisites that you need. Share your tips if you have already experienced the country’s beauty, or post your questions in the comment section if you have any doubts regarding the planning of your trip to Vietnam.