If you’re looking for an unforgettable family trip that combines adventure, culture and genuine value for money, Vietnam should be on your list.

It’s a country full of contrast – peaceful rice fields and lively cities, mountains and beaches, temples and street food markets. The best bit? It’s incredibly welcoming to families. Vietnamese people adore children, and you’ll notice that warmth everywhere you go.

Getting there and getting around

Flights from the UK to Vietnam usually involve one short stop, often in Doha, Bangkok or Singapore. Prices start around £400–£700 return depending on when you travel. If you can go outside the main school holidays you’ll save quite a bit.

Vietnam stretches the full length of Southeast Asia’s coastline, so distances between the north and south are huge. If you plan to explore more than one area, mix up your travel options. Domestic flights are great value and save long journeys. Trains, including overnight sleepers, can be fun for older children. Private drivers are a comfortable option for families with younger kids, and in cities the Grab app works brilliantly for short trips.

Traffic can look chaotic at first, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but you soon get used to the rhythm. Walk slowly and confidently when crossing – drivers will weave around you.

Budget and accommodation

Vietnam is one of those destinations where your money goes a long way. Clean, comfortable family hotels with breakfast included start around £30–£40 per night, and lovely mid-range resorts with pools are often £70–£100.

If you’re looking for a little luxury, beaches such as Hoi An, Da Nang or Phu Quoc offer stunning family-friendly resorts at a fraction of European prices. Many have kids’ clubs, play areas and family rooms so everyone gets space to unwind.

Food is another plus. A family meal at a local restaurant can cost less than a takeaway at home. Expect piles of noodles, rice dishes, pancakes and tropical fruit. Even cautious eaters usually find something they love.

Where to go and what to do

Every region in Vietnam has something special to offer families.

Hanoi is a great starting point with lakes, markets and traditional puppet shows. Ha Long Bay is a must-see – take a boat through the limestone islands for a real “pinch-me” moment. Hoi An feels almost storybook-like with its lantern-lit streets and riverside cafés. The Mekong Delta shows a different side of the country, full of floating markets and life on the water.

If you need beach time, head to Da Nang or Phu Quoc for calm seas and long stretches of sand. Try to plan a mix of activity and rest days – sightseeing balanced with pool or beach time keeps everyone happy.

Safety and peace of mind

Vietnam is widely considered one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia. People are kind and crime levels are low, though it’s still sensible to keep an eye on bags in crowded areas and stay cautious near busy roads.

Use reputable taxis or ride-share apps rather than flagging random drivers. Check the weather before you travel – central Vietnam can see heavy rain and storms between September and November.

The biggest shock for most visitors is crossing the road for the first time, but once you’ve mastered that, everything else feels easy.

Health, vaccinations and practical tips

Talk to your GP or a travel clinic about four to six weeks before your trip. Most families just need routine vaccines up to date (MMR, tetanus, diphtheria, polio) along with Hepatitis A and Typhoid. If you’ll be in rural areas for longer, ask about Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis or Rabies.

Mosquitoes can be annoying, so pack repellent and light long sleeves for evenings. Always drink bottled water and take a small first-aid kit with children’s paracetamol and rehydration sachets.

Everyday family tips

Pack light but practical clothes – it’s warm and humid in most places. Bring sun hats and plenty of sunscreen. Reusable water bottles are useful as many hotels have filtered dispensers. Carry small change for taxis and market snacks.

Get the children involved in planning – let them choose an activity or mark places on the map. It helps them feel part of the adventure. Don’t overschedule; leave space for slow mornings or spontaneous detours.

Final thoughts

Travelling to Vietnam with kids is a proper adventure, but one that feels achievable and rewarding. You’ll watch your children try new foods, learn a few Vietnamese words, and see life from a completely different perspective.

From lanterns drifting down Hoi An’s river to sunrise boat rides in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam leaves a lasting mark. It’s the kind of trip that brings families closer together – not because of luxury or screens, but through shared experience – and that’s what real memories are made of.