Are you planning to visit Vietnam but not sure which places to visit and which to avoid. We did our Vietnam tour with family, me, my wife and 2 kids. Here are the things we did and what we liked the most. Hope this will help you to explore the hidden gems of Vietnam.
- Ha Long Bay Cruise
We enjoyed the tour a lot, it was started from the cruise at Ha Long Bay. We really like the limestone islands, never saw it before. Visiting a beautiful cave, and having lunch on the boat. The trip was about 6-7 hours, sightseeing was really nice. Cave was something that we never saw before, and the kids were equally excited. We really loved the boat ride, took pictures and admired the views.
Take some snacks and water as well for your kids. Make sure you check what is included in the cruise ticket. There are a lot of cruises to choose from and facilities can vary in each of them.
- Hoi An Old Town and Japanese Bridge
We explored the Old Town, visited the Japanese Bridge, shopping was great experience – bought local stuff. The streets were very colourful. There were lots of little souvenir shops to look at. Some were selling colourful clothing and handmade items. You will find many spots to take photos so be sure to bring a camera. Does retail therapy make you happy? Explore and go through the local markets for the best items. However, if you are travelling with kids, its better not to spend too much time in one place. Comfortable walking shoes will also help, as you may spend a few hours exploring the streets.
- Lantern Boat Ride in Hoi An
After Old Town, in the evening we went for small boat ride on river. What we noticed that many people were releasing lanterns and the river looked colourful. Kids enjoyed the most, and the boat ride did not cost much. The overall experience was simple but lovely after a day full of walking around. Plan an evening visit when all the lanterns in the area are lit up.The area can get busy and you may have to wait for some time for a boat. Keep some time for this activity instead of planning it in a hurry.
- Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge
We reached Ba Na Hills by car provided by our tour operator Efficient Tourism. Thereafter we took the cable car that drop at the top at Golden Bridge. The views of both places were beautiful, and it was a fun experience for the kids too.
Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge were our family’s favourite, especially because of the amazing views and the cable car ride. One should must visit these 2 places. The kids enjoyed it a lot.
- Dragon Bridge at Night
We also saw the Dragon Bridge at night – its given really Asian look and feel.The bridge looked beautiful with the lights on, and it was a nice way to end our day in Da Nang. Find some free time in the evening to visit the area and enjoy the river views. Walk around the place and take pictures. The bridge is easy to include in your Da Nang itinerary, specially if you are already staying in the city. Double check the timings first before coming for the dragon’s fire and water show. It does not happen throughout the day. Just make sure to arrive a little early.
Tickets and Prices
The Ba Na Hills tickets and Ha Long Bay cruise were paid separately – this was not included in the Vietnam tour packages. Prices can vary depending on the season and tour operator, so I’d recommend checking the latest rates before booking.
My Suggestion
When time is limited, Ba Na Hills should be first in your list, and markets you can skip if you are not into shopping. What we noticed that doing too many places in one day was tiring for kids also. So next time we will keep less places and enjoy more.
FAQs
What is the best thing to do in Vietnam with family?
Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge were our family’s favourite. One should must visit these 2 places, kids enjoyed it a lot.
How long is the Ha Long Bay cruise?
Our trip was about 6-7 hours, with cave visit and lunch on the boat.
How to reach Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills?
We reached Ba Na Hills by car provided by our tour operator, thereafter took the cable car that drop at the top at Golden Bridge.
Are Ba Na Hills and Ha Long Bay included in Vietnam tour packages?
In our case these were paid separately, not included in the Vietnam tour package.
What to do in Hoi An in the evening?
Take a small boat ride on the river and see people releasing lanterns. Kids enjoyed it the most.
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