Top 5 Toddler-Friendly Cities in Vietnam
Vietnam is a fantastic destination for families, offering a mix of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and affordable travel options, it’s an excellent place to explore with a toddler. Whether your family is looking for adventure or relaxation, Vietnam offers a variety of toddler-friendly cities that cater to young travelers while keeping parents entertained. Below are the top five cities to visit in Vietnam with a toddler, along with helpful budgeting tips to make your trip stress-free.
How to Read the Budget
The daily budget estimates below are designed for a family of three (mom, dad, and a 2-year-old toddler) and include typical expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and activities. Accommodation costs are based on family-friendly hotels, while food costs reflect a mix of local restaurants, street food, and snacks. Transportation includes taxis, Grab rides, or local transport, and activity costs cover entrance fees to attractions or tours for two adults (toddlers often get free or discounted entry). Keep in mind that these are general estimates and may vary depending on the season, your personal preferences, and extra expenses like shopping or souvenirs.
1. Hanoi: A Cultural and Kid-Friendly Capital
Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, is a great starting point for families. Despite its busy streets, the city offers plenty of activities for toddlers. Take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where kids can watch turtles and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Visit the Vietnamese Women’s Museum, which has interactive exhibits and a kid-friendly play area. Don’t miss a traditional water puppet show, which is both entertaining and culturally enriching for little ones.
Daily Budget for Hanoi (family of 3):
- Accommodation: $35–$55 (family-friendly hotels)
- Food: $15–$25 (local eateries and cafes)
- Transportation: $10 (taxis or Grab rides)
- Activities: $10–$20 (museum fees or performances)
- Total: $70–$110
Suggested Tour:
Hanoi: Guided Food Tour with Train Street Visit
Free Walking tour
Hanoi The Old Quarter Tour - Discover Hanoi's Hidden Gems
2. Hoi An: A Relaxing and Picturesque Getaway
Hoi An’s charming streets, lantern-lit nights, and calm atmosphere make it an ideal destination for families with toddlers. The Ancient Town is pedestrian-friendly, so you can explore at your own pace. Visit An Bang Beach, where toddlers can splash in gentle waves, or take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River. Families will also enjoy a visit to Tra Que Vegetable Village, where kids can learn about farming and even try planting vegetables.
Daily Budget for Hoi An (family of 3):
- Accommodation: $40–$65 (boutique hotels)
- Food: $15–$25 (local restaurants and street food)
- Transportation: $8–$12 (bicycles or taxis)
- Activities: $12–$20 (boat rides or cultural experiences)
- Total: $75–$122
Suggested Tour:
Hoi An: Basket Boat Ride in the Coconut Forest
Free Walking tour
Hoi An Ancient Town - Free Walking Tour
3. Da Nang: A Family-Friendly Beach Destination
Da Nang is known for its pristine beaches and family-friendly vibe. Spend the day at My Khe Beach, where toddlers can run on soft sand and paddle in shallow waters. For a touch of adventure, take the family to Ba Na Hills, home to the famous Golden Bridge and a theme park with rides suitable for young children. Don’t miss Asia Park, a spacious amusement park with toddler-friendly attractions and areas to explore.
Daily Budget for Da Nang (family of 3):
- Accommodation: $45–$75 (beachfront hotels or family resorts)
- Food: $15–$25 (seafood and local restaurants)
- Transportation: $10–$15 (taxis or motorbike rentals)
- Activities: $15–$30 (theme parks or attractions)
- Total: $85–$145
Suggested Tour:
Da Nang: Lady Buddha, Marble Mountains, and Am Phu Cave Tour
Free Walking tour
Da Nang Food Tour - Eat Like a Local
4. Ho Chi Minh City: A Toddler-Friendly Urban Adventure
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, may be busy, but it offers plenty of activities for families. Visit Tao Dan Park, which has a playground and green spaces for toddlers to explore. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens is another great spot for kids to see animals and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. For some indoor fun, head to KizCiti, an interactive play center where toddlers can engage in role-playing activities.
Daily Budget for Ho Chi Minh City (family of 3):
- Accommodation: $40–$70 (mid-range hotels with family rooms)
- Food: $15–$25 (street food and casual restaurants)
- Transportation: $10 (taxis or Grab rides)
- Activities: $12–$20 (zoo or play centers)
- Total: $77–$125
Suggested Tour:
Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour
Free Walking tour:
Highlights & hidden gems of Ho Chi Minh City
5. Nha Trang: A Coastal Paradise for Families
Nha Trang is a fantastic destination for families, offering sandy beaches, calm waters, and plenty of toddler-friendly activities. Spend the day at VinWonders Nha Trang, an amusement park and water park located on Hon Tre Island, accessible by cable car. The city’s beaches, such as Bai Dai Beach, are perfect for young children to play in the sand and paddle in shallow waters. Families can also visit the National Oceanographic Museum of Vietnam, where toddlers can marvel at colorful fish and marine life.
Daily Budget for Nha Trang (family of 3):
- Accommodation: $40–$70 (beachfront hotels or family-friendly resorts)
- Food: $15–$25 (local seafood and casual dining)
- Transportation: $10 (taxis or Grab rides)
- Activities: $15–$30 (amusement parks or attractions)
- Total: $80–$135
Suggested Tour:
Nha Trang: VinWonders Admission with Cable Car Ride
Optional: Ha Long Bay - A Scenic and Relaxing Adventure
For families who love nature, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit destination. A day cruise around the bay offers stunning views of limestone karsts and calm waters, perfect for kids who enjoy boat rides.
Suggested Tour:
Hanoi: Full-Day Halong Bay Cruise with Swimming & Kayak Tour
Tips for Traveling with a Toddler in Vietnam
- Stay Flexible: Allow extra time for breaks and naps, especially in the heat.
- Pack Essentials: Diapers, baby wipes, and formula are widely available, but bring your toddler’s preferred brands.
- Use Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing to protect your child from the tropical sun.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep your toddler hydrated with bottled water or fresh fruit juices.
- Download Offline Maps: Vietnam’s streets can be tricky to navigate, so offline maps are a lifesaver.
- Bring a Baby Carrier: While strollers are useful in cities, a baby carrier is ideal for uneven terrain or crowded areas.
- Invest in Travel Insurance: Ensure your family is covered for medical emergencies and unexpected cancellations.
- Get an eSIM: Opt for an eSIM to stay connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards. It allows for easy access to mobile data for navigation and communication, making your travels smoother.
Vietnam offers countless opportunities for families traveling with toddlers. These five cities provide a mix of cultural, natural, and fun-filled experiences that will delight both parents and children. With affordable budgets and family-oriented activities, your trip to Vietnam is sure to be a memorable adventure! Happy Travels!