Vietnam Round Trip with a Toddler – Itinerary, Tips & Highlights

Vietnam is a land of contrasts – vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and stunning beaches make it a fascinating travel destination.
But is it suitable for a round trip with a toddler? Our answer: Absolutely!

It was clear to us that we wanted to experience Vietnam in all its facets.
Staying in just one place was not an option – so we traveled across the country with our one-year-old daughter.
Looking back, we can confidently say: Vietnam was not only beautiful and family-friendly, but surprisingly easy to explore with a toddler.

In this post, we share our experiences, itinerary, and personal highlights with you.
Hopefully, this will also help you with your travel planning for an upcoming family trip to Vietnam.

GETTING AROUND VIETNAM ON A ROUND TRIP

Before diving into our itinerary, we want to highlight one of the most important aspects of a round trip: transportation in Vietnam.
Although the country is narrow, it stretches over a considerable length – so it’s essential to plan the best mode of travel for both long and short distances in advance.

Fortunately, there are numerous transportation options, many of which are surprisingly affordable.
The choice of transport depends on your budget as well as the distance you need to cover.
During our round trip, we tried nearly every mode of transport – from flights and ferries to private drivers, Grab rides, night trains, and motorbikes.

You can find our experiences and tips in the following posts:

• Vietnam Travel Guide: Essential Tips & Information for your Trip
• Traveling to Vietnam with a Baby & Toddler – Tips, Must-Knows & Our Experience

SOUTH TO NORTH OR VICE VERSA – WHICH IS THE BEST ROUTE?

You might be wondering which direction makes more sense for your Vietnam trip: traveling from south to north or vice versa?
Given that Vietnam is a long and narrow country, it’s ideal to travel either from north to south or the other way around.
Thanks to its well-developed infrastructure, affordable domestic flights, and family-friendly transportation options, the journey can be made easy, even with a toddler.

Our recommendation: Let the flights decide! Which direction offers better or cheaper connections? I
f you're planning to explore the entire country, consider booking a multi-city flight, such as arriving in Ho Chi Minh City and departing from Hanoi.

No matter which direction you choose, both Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south make excellent starting or ending points for your adventure.

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR A VIETNAM ROUND TRIP WITH A TODDLER

• Private Drivers: More comfortable and flexible than buses.
• Choose Accommodations with a Pool: Perfect for a refreshing break, especially after a long day.
• Book Only Air-Conditioned Accommodations: Essential for naps to ensure your toddler gets restful sleep.
• Make Travel Stages Flexible: Fewer stops and shorter distances create a more relaxed journey for the whole family.
• Night Trains with a Baby or Toddler? No Problem! – 4-person sleeper cabins offer enough space for a comfortable ride.
• Baby Food & Diapers: Easy to find in major cities, but rarer in rural areas.
• Rice, Noodles & Fruit Are Commonly Available: Dishes like Pho (rice noodle soup) or fried rice are usually great options for toddlers.
• Kids are Warmly Welcomed in Vietnam: Parents can expect lots of attention and helpfulness.
• Few Public Changing Facilities: A portable changing mat is essential.
• Baby Carrier Instead of a Stroller: Sidewalks are often uneven or blocked, making a carrier the better option.

You can find all additional tips and our personal experiences in our post 'Traveling to Vietnam with a Baby & Toddler – Tips, Must-Knows & Our Experience'

OUR ROUND TRIP ITINERARY

Our Vietnam round trip marked the end of our five-month parental leave journey through Southeast Asia.
Having previously been in Cambodia, we entered Vietnam overland with a private driver.
This will likely not be the case for you, and as mentioned, you will probably enter the country through either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
From there, you can easily take a domestic flight to Phu Quoc.

We recommend a minimum stay of three weeks for our entire itinerary, ideally even longer.
If you have less time, you should skip either Phu Quoc or Sa Pa due to the large distances.
For a two-week trip, we recommend omitting both destinations to allow enough time to enjoy the remaining highlights at a relaxed pace.

1. PHU QUOC – VIETNAM'S ISLAND PARADISE

Our Accommodation: Best Western Premier Sonasea Phu Quoc
Recommended Stay: 3 to 5 days

From the port in Ha Tien, we took the ferry to Vietnam's largest island.
We booked our tickets in advance through 12GoAsia – the process was smooth, and the crossing was very pleasant and straightforward.
Standard tickets start from just $10 per person. We opted for the VIP seats, which offered significantly more comfort.
The extra cost was minimal and definitely worth it. We highly recommend this option to all parents – it was well worth it.

After a 90-minute crossing, we arrived in Phu Quoc on time, where our pre-arranged taxi, booked through the accommodation, was already waiting for us.
Phu Quoc is a welcome escape from the bustling hustle of the big cities – or in our case, the perfect relaxing start to the upcoming round trip.

Here’s a brief overview of the attractions and activities you can explore or experience during your stay in Phu Quoc with a baby or toddler:

Sunset Town

It is one of the most artificial cities we have ever seen! An extravagant mix of European architecture, empty streets, and an almost eerie atmosphere.
We can't quite understand why someone would build an Italian city in Vietnam.
Whether the bustling life they hope for will ever materialize remains uncertain.
However, it is precisely this unusual atmosphere that makes a walk through the abandoned yet beautifully designed city a worthwhile experience.

Hon Thom Cable Car & Aquatopia Water Park

The Hon Thom Cable Car – the longest over-the-sea cable car in the world – starts in Sunset Town and offers stunning views of the Phu Quoc islands.
It can only be booked in combination with a ticket for the Aquatopia Water Park.
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The water park is ideal for families with children of all ages. We really enjoyed our time there – everyone had fun.
While one of us played with our daughter in the huge children's area, the other could try the slides.

Although the park is not fully accessible for strollers, we decided to bring ours – a choice we would make again without hesitation.
It was very useful for carrying our towels, water bottles, snacks, and other items.
It was very convenient for carrying our towels, water bottles, snacks, and other items.
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It’s best to buy your ticket for the water park online in advance.
Although Sunset Town is often empty, the lines at the ticket counter were very long.
Another advantage of the online ticket: the lunch buffet is included!
You can find the ticket link here: Aquatopia Water Park

Grand World Phu Quoc

One ghost town might not be enough – Phu Quoc actually has two. In the northwest of the island, you’ll find Grand World Phu Quoc, a modern city built in European style, which is also almost deserted. It’s meant to resemble Venice, with various canals and elegant bridges.
Of course, the authentic gondolas are also a highlight, allowing visitors to leisurely glide over the water.

Why such a large, yet abandoned city was even built remains a mystery.
One can only hope that it will eventually become the vibrant tourist destination that was hoped for.
Still, we believe: A visit is worth it! You simply have to see for yourself what crazy places exist in the world.

For those looking for some hustle and bustle after the ghost town, you can visit the nearby Vinpearl Land Phu Quoc amusement park.
You can already book your VinWonders ticket online in advance: Vinpearl Land Entrance Ticket.

For those who prefer a more relaxed yet adventurous experience, a visit to Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is a must.
The zoo, just a few minutes' drive away, delights both adults and children, leaving little ones with shining eyes.
You can already book your ticket online in advance: Vinpearl Safari Entrance Ticket

Good to know: You can easily bring a stroller to all three attractions.

Dinh Cau Night Market

We love night markets – the many different stalls, the hustle and bustle, the sounds, and the exotic scents.
So we were disappointed when we visited the Phu Quoc Night Market and realized that it hardly resembled the traditional market atmosphere anymore.
Instead of authentic street food stalls and other market stands, there are mainly touristy food options and souvenir shops.

A quick walk is still worth it, just to see it for yourself. If you enjoy seafood, you’ll find plenty here – though at tourist prices.

The Most Beautiful Beaches of Phu Quoc

The main reason many travelers visit Phu Quoc is for its stunning beaches.
Therefore, relaxing beach visits should definitely be part of your stay.
Here’s a brief overview of our favorites:

• Khem Beach – Our Favorite! With powdery white sand, calm waters, and plenty of shade under the palm trees, this beach offers ideal conditions for families with toddlers.
  If you want a lounge chair, you’ll need to rent one from one of the beach bars – though the prices are rather high.
  A particularly positive note: Compared to other beaches on the island, there’s significantly less plastic waste here.
• Sao Beach – Another family-friendly beach on Phu Quoc with fine white sand and calm waters.
  While the middle and northern sections are often crowded and heavily used by the nearby restaurants, the southern part remains peacefully quiet.
  Here, you’ll find turquoise waters and a beautiful sandbar for swimming.
  Our park tip: Avoid the Paradiso Restaurant, as they charge a fee for beach access. Instead, enter “Bãi Sao 1” in Google Maps – you can park there for free.
• Long Beach – Perfect for swimming and splashing around. There are a few beach bars that invite you to relax. The sunsets here are particularly stunning.
• Ong Lang Beach – If you're looking for peace and seclusion, this is the place for you.
  However, the infrastructure, such as toilets and restaurants, is lacking in the immediate vicinity.
• Starfish Beach – A beautiful beach with turquoise waters and many starfish.
  But here lies the issue: The starfish, which make this beach so special, are not naturally native to the area – locals collect them and release them into the shallow water daily to attract tourists. This stresses the creatures and can harm them in the worst case.
  So, think carefully before visiting this place. Instead, we recommend exploring the other untouched beaches in the north of the island.

Of course, there are many more stunning beaches on the island. Just check Google Maps for the nearest beach and explore – it’s worth it!

Getting Around: Unlike the major cities in Vietnam, Phu Quoc is ideal for exploring by scooter.
It’s not only the easiest but also the cheapest and most flexible way to get around.
Even beginner riders can easily practice their skills here, as the roads are generally wide and well-maintained.
For tips on what to look out for when renting a scooter in Vietnam, as well as other helpful information, check out our post: Renting a scooter in Vietnam – Helpful Tips & Information.

Our Restaurant Tip: Phở Hòa – Delicious and Affordable Phở
‍For authentic, tasty Phở at fair prices, Phở Hòa comes highly recommended – a must-visit for fans of Vietnamese cuisine!
Nora’s Cafe – Breakfast & Bowls
‍Whether for breakfast or a refreshing bowl at lunch, Nora’s Cafe serves delicious, beautifully presented bowls.

2. HO CHI MINH CITY

Our Accommodation: Au Lac Charner Hotel
Recommended Stay: 3 to 5 days

After a short 45-minute flight, we arrived in Ho Chi Minh City.
The vibrant metropolis fascinated us with its blend of tradition and modernity.
We’ve detailed our experiences in our post Discover Ho Chi Minh City: Top Attractions, Insider Tips & Highlights.

Good to know: The baby carrier was our best companion, as navigating the city with a stroller can be quite difficult due to poorly maintained or blocked sidewalks.
Even when taking Grab rides, we found it inconvenient to unload, fold, and store the stroller each time – it took both time and patience.

3. CAN THO – HEART OF THE MEKONG DELTA

Our Accommodation: Vamxang Rustic Home
Recommended Stay: 2 to 4 days

With a private driver, we traveled from the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho in the Mekong Delta – a journey of about three hours.
We booked the driver and child seat through our accommodation.
Once there, we explored the famous floating markets, visited a cocoa farm, and immersed ourselves in the authentic life of the region – an absolute highlight of our trip!

You can find all the information and tips in our post Can Tho in the Mekong Delta – Vietnam's Floating Markets & Attractions.

Good to know: In Can Tho, there is a large supermarket with everything you need for babies and toddlers – diapers, formula, and more.
So, you don’t need to stock up on these items in advance.

We hardly used the stroller there, as we were mainly getting around by scooter, bike, or boat.

4. DA NANG – VIETNAM'S COASTAL GEM

Our Accommodation: The Glomad Boutique Danang
Recommended Stay: 2 to 3 days

The most convenient way for us to cover the long distance between Can Tho and Da Nang with a toddler was by taking a domestic flight.
We booked it in advance through 12GoAsia – and at a surprisingly affordable price.

In Da Nang, we encountered a completely different Vietnam than in Can Tho.
The city feels modern, marked by countless high-rise buildings, and we found it surprisingly clean and well-organized – less chaotic than many other Vietnamese cities.
Add to that the miles of fine sandy beaches, which make Da Nang one of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations.

Da Nang doesn’t have a classic city center, as the Han River divides the city.
However, this doesn’t detract from the experience, as there are several vibrant neighborhoods instead.
Particularly popular are the areas around the Dragon Bridge and night market, the beach promenade, and the bustling streets on the opposite side of the river.

Our accommodation was a real find: comfortable, modern, affordable, and perfectly located – right between the beach and major attractions like the Dragon Bridge and night market.

Here’s a brief overview of the attractions and activities you can explore or experience during your stay in Da Nang with a baby or toddler:

My Khe Beach

It’s one of our favorite beaches in Da Nang. With its fine sand and shallow waters, it’s perfect for families with children.
Whether relaxing, building sandcastles, or taking a refreshing dip in the warm water – this is a great place to enjoy your time.

Chợ Đêm Sơn Trà – Wonders Night Market

It’s located right by the famous Dragon Bridge. Here, you can find a wide range of Vietnamese delicacies, souvenirs, clothing, electronics, and much more.
Opening hours: daily from 6:00 pm to 12:00 am – the night market is especially crowded on weekends!

Dragon Bridge

It’s one of the most famous bridges in Vietnam and offers an impressive spectacle every Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 pm: The massive dragon breathes fire and water while glowing in colorful lights – a sight you won’t forget quickly.

Our tip: It’s best to arrive a little earlier, as this spectacle attracts many visitors every weekend.
Also, avoid standing on the bridge – it can get very hot and wet there.
A better viewpoint is below the bridge at the end of the night market.

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains are one of the most popular attractions in the city.
These five impressive limestone peaks house stunning caves, temples, and pagodas.
The hike to the top is worth it – from there, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Da Nang and the coastline.

Lady Buddha Statue & Son Tra Peninsula

Start your day with a visit to the Lady Buddha Statue – the largest statue in Vietnam.
It stands on the Son Tra Peninsula and offers a fantastic view of Da Nang.
Our tip: Allow at least 3-4 hours, as there are many other temples and viewpoints to explore in addition to the statue.

Hai Van Pass

The famous pass connects Da Nang with Hue and is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Vietnam.
A drive over the pass offers spectacular views of the sea, mountains, and the coastal landscape.

Shopping in Da Nang

If you're in the mood for shopping, there are several large Western-style malls such as Vincom Plaza, Indochina Riverside Mall, and Lotte Mart.
Here, you’ll find fashion, electronics, souvenirs, and much more.

Sun World Ba Na Hills Amusement Park & the Famous "Golden Bridge"

The amusement park is located about 25 km from Da Nang and is the most popular day trip destination in the region.
It’s especially famous for the Golden Bridge, which is supported by giant stone hands – an iconic photo spot that’s everywhere on social media.

In addition to the bridge, you'll find numerous attractions, various themed areas, and a cable car with breathtaking views.

Our tip: Visit the park only in really good weather, as you may find yourself surrounded by thick fog at the top of the mountain.
It’s best to book your ticket online in advance to avoid long waiting times. Here’s the ticket link: Ticket Ba Na Hills – Sun World.

Getting Around: In the city, we mostly used Grab for longer distances – the most convenient, affordable, and flexible way for us to quickly get from point A to point B.
However, we also did a lot of walking – and surprisingly, it worked out really well in Da Nang!
Compared to other Vietnamese cities, the sidewalks here are wider, in better condition, and less obstructed, which is especially beneficial for families with strollers.

5. HOI AN – ONE OF VIETNAM'S MOST BEAUTIFUL CITIES

Our Accommodation: Hoi An Odyssey Hotel & Spa
Recommended Stay: 3 to 4 days

From Da Nang, we traveled to the city of Hoi An, about a 45-minute drive away, with a private driver arranged by our accommodation.
And what can we say? We were enchanted right away!
Hoi An is often called the most charming city in Vietnam – and for good reason.
With its colorful lanterns, historic old town, cozy cafés, and numerous souvenir shops, it exudes a unique, relaxed atmosphere.
No wonder Hoi An is one of the country’s most popular destinations and always well-visited.
Yet, despite the tourist crowds, the city captivated us – a visit is highly recommended!

Here’s a brief overview of the attractions and activities you can explore or experience during your stay in Hoi An with a baby or toddler:

Hoi An Old Town

Let yourself be carried away through the charming old town of Hoi An, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The well-preserved houses, temples, and winding alleys exude a unique charm – especially in the evening when countless lanterns light up the city, creating a magical atmosphere.

Japanese Bridge

The Japanese Bridge is the landmark of Hoi An and a symbol of the once-thriving trading city.
Built in the 16th or 17th century by the Japanese community, it once connected the Japanese and Chinese quarters.
As one of the best-preserved buildings from this era, the bridge is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
With its unique design and rich history, it is a popular photo spot and an unmistakable landmark of the city.

The Lantern Ritual in Hoi An

The Lantern Ritual in Hoi An is a magical experience said to bring luck, prosperity, and peace.
Every evening, locals and tourists release small, glowing lanterns into the Thu Bon River, making wishes as they do.
The tradition has Buddhist roots and symbolizes letting go of negative energies while hoping for a bright future.

If you’d like to participate, you can buy a colorful paper lantern from one of the vendors along the riverbank.
Then comes the question: Do you gently let your lantern float into the water with a long stick, or do you step into one of the traditional wooden boats?
While the boatmen leisurely paddle through the river, illuminated by hundreds of lanterns, your lantern gently drifts away once released.

To be honest, we preferred the atmosphere from the riverbank – but somehow, the boat ride is just part of the experience.

Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River

A bit further down the river, you have the opportunity to take a ride in larger, brightly lit motorboats towards the sea.
This experience is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sky is painted in warm colors and the shimmering light reflects on the water's surface.
You can buy tickets from the vendors along the shore – bargaining is part of the experience!

Hoi An Night Market

The night market is, for us, one of the largest and most beautiful in Vietnam, alongside the one in Hanoi.
It stretches along the waterfront promenade and extends to the small island across the river.
Here, you’ll find a unique atmosphere with a wide variety of offerings: delicious street food, artistic souvenirs, traditional crafts, and the famous handmade lanterns that make Hoi An so special. A visit is an absolute must for us!

Tailored Clothing

A tailored garment from Hoi An is also an absolute must-have! The city is famous for its tailoring, and the number of talented tailors is impressive.
By chance, we discovered an amazing tailor – and we were so impressed that we had several pieces made.
Our tip: Elite Tailor Hoi An – here you can expect excellent craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and top-notch value for money.
And as is common throughout Vietnam, don’t forget to haggle!

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Explore the Surroundings & Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village

The area around Hoi An has much to offer – the best way to explore it is by scooter.
One particularly worthwhile excursion is the Thanh Ha Pottery Village, just 3 km from the old town.
This over 500-year-old pottery village is famous for its traditional pottery craftsmanship.
Visitors can not only purchase handmade ceramic products but also try their hand at pottery.

A ride along the rice fields toward An Bang Beach or through the small villages around Hoi An is also a great way to experience rural Vietnam, away from the tourist crowds.

Good to know: If you're planning a busy sightseeing schedule, be sure to take the heat into account, depending on the season – especially with a baby or toddler.
In Hoi An, there were times when it felt like the air was stagnant.
Especially at midday, the air was oppressively humid, so even after a short walk through the beautiful streets, we were drenched in sweat, even without rain.

Getting Around: Due to the central location of our accommodation, we explored the city on foot – sometimes with a stroller, sometimes with a baby carrier.
For excursions to the surrounding area, we rented a scooter.
Even as beginner riders, we found the area around Hoi An easy to explore by scooter.
The traffic is manageable, and the roads are well-maintained.

6. NINH BINH / TAM COC – NIGHT TRAIN RIDE

Our Accommodation: Tam Coc Serenity Hotel & Bungalow
Recommended Stay: 2 to 3 days

The private driver took us back to Da Nang and dropped us off at the train station.
Now, one of the absolute highlights of our Vietnam round trip awaited us: the approximately 14-hour ride on the night train to Ninh Binh.
From our perspective, this "long" train journey is completely manageable with a baby and toddler, especially if you opt to book the entire 4-person sleeper cabin.
We’ve detailed more about our night train experience in our post Traveling to Vietnam with a Baby & Toddler – Tips, Must-Knows & Our Experience.

We had braced ourselves for a sleepless night, but surprisingly, despite the loud train noises, we all slept fairly well.
The next morning, we were awakened by the first light of sunrise.
Right after waking up, we could enjoy the breathtaking landscape of limestone mountains, rivers, and rice fields from the window – an absolutely fantastic view!

At the train station, we were once again picked up by a private driver who took us directly to our accommodation.

Ninh Binh, also known as the "dry Halong Bay," is one of our absolute favorite regions in Vietnam in terms of landscape.
Endless green rice fields, surrounded by impressive, rugged limestone mountains, give the area a unique atmosphere and make it an unforgettable destination.

Here’s a brief overview of the attractions and activities you can explore or experience during your stay in Ninh Binh with a baby or toddler:

Boat Ride in Tam Coc or Trang An

Before we begin with the highlight of the region, we want to note that this activity is only suitable for you and your child if you feel it’s manageable for you.
With our active daughter, this boat ride wouldn’t have been possible, so only one of us participated.

The boats, called Sampans, are rowed by the locals using a unique technique – with their feet.
It was impressive to watch older people sitting like this for hours, using their entire body to move the boat.
The ride takes you through breathtaking karst landscapes and two caves. The tour lasts about an hour and a half.
Since the boat tour is one of the main attractions of the region, our boat guide unfortunately became quite pushy towards the end when it came to tipping.
Although she didn’t speak English, she repeatedly drew our attention to the word "Tip," which became a bit annoying.

Our tip: Start the tour just before sunset, when most of the day tourists have already left, and the place is less crowded.

Hang Mua Viewpoint

Another highlight, which we believe is less suitable for babies and toddlers, is the steep, sweat-inducing climb up uneven stairs to the Hang Mua Viewpoint.
Located about 5 km north of Tam Coc, it is the highest point of the Mua Caves.
However, those who make the strenuous climb are rewarded with an incredible view over the river valley.

The cave itself is not particularly impressive, but the view makes up for the effort.
The climb takes between 20 and 30 minutes, so we decided that only one of us would make the ascent.

The nice thing about this attraction is that there is a lovely area that is also suitable for babies and toddlers.
There’s a beautiful lotus flower field and various temple elements.
The visit was worthwhile for all of us, and the waiting time was easy to manage with a toddler.
Our tip: Visit the viewpoint either early in the morning or just before sunset, as it can get too hot otherwise.

Bich Dong Pagoda

Just a few minutes' walk from our accommodation is the small but impressive Bich Dong Pagoda – peacefully set amidst nature.
Surrounded by a picturesque lake covered with numerous water lilies, you can reach the temple via a narrow path.

Thung Nham Bird Valley

This activity is equally exciting for both adults and children. The bird park spans a large, well-maintained area with a large lake in the center.
The entrance fee includes a short boat ride through a small cave, which worked perfectly with our daughter, as the tour lasts only about 15 minutes.

In addition to the birds, our daughter was especially fascinated by the numerous butterflies that could be seen everywhere.
For us, the spacious grounds with well-maintained paths were the ideal place to let our daughter roam freely – without worrying about scooters or other vehicles coming around the corner.
What made it especially pleasant was the calm atmosphere we experienced, away from the tourist crowds.

Good to know: If you want to observe as many birds as possible, it’s best to plan your visit after 4 pm, when the birds return to their sleeping spots.

Getting Around: For short distances, you can easily walk, and thanks to the well-developed sidewalks, they are also stroller-friendly.
For longer distances, a scooter is ideal, and your accommodation can arrange one for you.
Parking in Ninh Binh is usually free and easy, except at the attractions where a small fee may apply.
If you prefer not to ride a scooter, you can book a private driver through your accommodation or order a taxi via the Grab app.
However, Grab may not always be reliable in this region.

Restaurant Tip: The Café VEN SÔNG, within walking distance from our great accommodation, not only serves delicious, fresh juices and food but also offers a breathtaking view of the rice fields and the surrounding limestone landscape.

7. HA LONG BAY

Our Accommodation: M'Gloria Cruise by HAG
Recommended Stay: 1 day or night

Our itinerary took us further with a private driver to the 4-hour distant Ha Long Bay in northern Vietnam.
Ha Long Bay is simply a must-see on any Vietnam tour.
From the turquoise waters rise more than 3,000 limestone peaks, some towering several hundred meters high.
A mini-cruise offers the opportunity to drift through this picturesque bay, passing countless small islands, all surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape.

As impressive as Ha Long Bay is, it is one of the most visited tourist hotspots in Vietnam.
Thousands of travelers flock to the bay daily by boat or come from nearby islands like Cat Ba.
If you’re looking for peace and seclusion, you won’t find it here. This is also reflected in the prices.
This overnight stay was by far the most expensive during our entire tour.
Additionally, the region struggles with a significant waste problem.
It wasn’t until nighttime, when the spotlights illuminated the water, that we could see the unpleasant reality: Trash and oil slicks were floating everywhere.
Therefore, our conclusion is this: It is definitely an experience worth having, but we wouldn’t do it again.

When choosing our ship, we placed particular emphasis on comfort.
Since we couldn’t participate in activities like kayaking or fishing with our little daughter, we spent the entire time on board.
For us, the cruise was mainly an opportunity to peacefully enjoy the breathtaking landscape – and this worked wonderfully even with a toddler.

8. HANOI

Our accommodation: Hanoi Central Hotel & Residences
Recommended stay: 2 to 3 days

The stop before the last on our tour took us to Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam.
With one of the largest international airports in the country, Hanoi is the perfect starting or ending point for many travelers on a Vietnam tour.

The bustling city is best explored on foot, as many of the attractions are located in the city center.
When choosing your accommodation, be sure to ensure it is also in the heart of the city.
Our spacious, modern apartment with a washing machine and included breakfast was a real hit!

Here are some highlights we've put together for you that you can experience during your stay in Hanoi with a baby or toddler:

Shopping in Hanoi

Vietnam is a true shopping paradise. Many well-known brands like NorthFace, Patagonia, and Nike have their clothing and backpacks produced here.
Therefore, we often weren't sure in the numerous stores whether the items were genuine brand products (possibly B-grade) or counterfeits – the quality was surprisingly good in many cases. So, if you're looking for a new backpack, a stylish T-shirt, or warm sweaters, you'll definitely find something here.

If you’ve bought a little too much while shopping, don’t worry – you’ll also find a huge selection of suitcases in many stores.
Among them are even those from the brand Rimowa.
However, we are pretty sure these are counterfeits.
Whether it's clothing or luggage, don’t forget to negotiate!

Night market

If you're in Hanoi over the weekend and haven't had enough of shopping yet, you should definitely visit the Chợ Hàng Mã night market.
For us, this market is a must – we went there both on Saturday and Sunday.
The large night market is also located in the city center.
In the late afternoon, the main street is closed off, and the market is set up.

Here, you can stroll along countless stalls and perhaps snag some real bargains.
From clothing and shoes to jewelry, toys, and souvenirs, there’s really something for everyone. Bargaining is a must here!

Train Street

The Train Street is a 500-meter-long stretch of railway that runs right through the heart of Hanoi.
Along the tracks, numerous cafés have settled, offering visitors a truly unique experience.
Today, Train Street is one of Hanoi's main attractions.
What would be unthinkable in many other countries is possible here: sitting on a chair right next to the train tracks, having a drink, and watching the train pass by just a few centimeters away. It's truly a one-of-a-kind experience!

However, visiting Train Street isn’t always straightforward. During the day, access to the tracks is often blocked by barriers, signs, and so-called "police officers".
We happened to pass by twice after 7 pm and were able to walk right in without any problems or checks.
The exact timing of the train's arrival is unpredictable. So, you sit down, have a drink, or enjoy a small snack while waiting.
When a train approaches, café owners whistle, urging everyone to move off the tracks, and push guests who are sitting too close to the rails back. Then, the train rolls in.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

The Tran Quoc Pagoda is located just outside the city center on a peninsula in West Lake and is one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam.
It consists of three buildings that together form a blooming lotus flower symbol.
The highlight is the 15-meter-tall main pagoda, which is clearly visible from afar.

Good to know: The pagoda is easiest to reach by Grab. Shoulders and knees should be covered during your visit.

Water Puppet Theater

The Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi is a cultural highlight of the city with a long history, with the first performances dating back to the 11th century.
The stage is a water basin, with puppeteers standing waist-deep behind a curtain to bring the wooden puppets to life.
Fire-breathing dragons, jumping fish, fishermen, and farmers guiding their water buffaloes – all of this is accompanied by singing and traditional music.

We recommend purchasing tickets in advance online, as they often sell out several days ahead or there may be long queues on-site.
You can buy your ticket here: Water Puppet Theater Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi is a historically significant site where Ho Chi Minh, one of the most influential figures in Vietnam’s history, rests.
It symbolizes the nation’s respect for its leader and marks the place where he declared Vietnam’s independence.

Before entering the plaza of the mausoleum, you must go through a security check.
Photography and filming are not allowed inside, and visitors are expected to behave respectfully.
Shoulders and knees must be covered – shorts, skirts, or sleeveless tops are not permitted. The staff at the security check is very strict.

After visiting the mausoleum, you can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Museum to learn more about the life and history of the leader. Admission is free.

Good to know: The carrier was our best companion, as navigating the city with a stroller is quite difficult due to the poor or blocked sidewalks.
Even when using Grab, we found it inconvenient to unload, fold, and store the stroller each time – it took time and patience.

Despite the beautiful impressions, our conclusion is: Hanoi is a great city, but compared to Ho Chi Minh City, it impressed us less.
Ho Chi Minh City had a special vibe that we felt was missing in Hanoi.
Therefore, we recommend not spending too much time in Hanoi if you want to explore other Vietnamese cities.

9. SA PA

Our accommodation: Sapa Rosie House
Recommended stay: 2 to 4 days

Our final stop on the tour was Sa Pa, a small town in the Lào Cai province in the far north of Vietnam, near the border with China.
Many tours skip this place because it is somewhat off the usual routes.
We also debated for a long time whether we should take the 5-hour drive with a toddler.
Looking back, we’re glad we did. Sa Pa stands out significantly from the rest of the country due to its geographical location.
At 1,600 meters above sea level, you are right in the middle of green mountains.
The region is a melting pot of cultures, home to the Hmong, Dao, Tay, and other smaller ethnic groups.

Due to the altitude, temperatures here typically range between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius.
However, for those who, like us, aren’t prepared for these cooler temperatures compared to the rest of the country, there’s no need to worry: In the center of Sa Pa, there are plenty of shops specializing in selling warm jackets, sweaters, vests, and raincoats.
Similar to Hanoi, mostly branded products of good quality are offered here – whether they are B-grade or counterfeit, we couldn't tell.

Here are some highlights we've put together for you that you can experience during your stay in Sa Pa with a baby or toddler:

The tourist center

The tourist center of Sa Pa extends around a small lake, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery.
However, we didn’t find the town particularly picturesque, as it is heavily tourist-oriented.
Tour operators line the streets, and restaurants, cafés, and shops selling clothing and souvenirs dominate the area.
The true beauty of Sa Pa lies more in the impressive nature outside the center.
Therefore, we recommend looking for accommodation a little away from the hustle and bustle.
‍Our accommodation, just 7 minutes from the center, offered a wonderful view and provided a comfortable stay with a warm shower, air conditioning, and a small restaurant.

Good to know: Whenever we were in the center of Sa Pa, we were approached by women carrying their toddlers or babies on their backs, dressed in traditional clothes.
They offered us trekking tours or tried to sell their handmade souvenirs.
Sometimes they were quite persistent and even accompanied us for part of our walk.

Even more shocking to us were the begging actions by very young children, also dressed in traditional clothes, who either approached tourists alone or with a baby on their back, persistently asking for money while their mothers stayed in the background.
From our hosts, we learned that many tourists feel pity for the children and therefore give them money generously.
But this is exactly where the problem lies: The parents know that the children bring in more money when they ask for it.
As a result, they spend hours with them in the city instead of sending them to school or finding other ways to occupy them.

Fansipan Mountain – The Most Famous Attraction in Sa Pa

At 3,143 meters, Fansipan is the "Roof of Indochina" and undoubtedly the main attraction in Sa Pa, drawing many Asian tourists.
What was once only accessible through a challenging, roughly three-day hike changed in 2016 when the Vietnamese megacorporation SunWorld opened a spectacular cable car. Today, the elevation can be easily reached with the gondola.

The different cable car stations reminded us a bit of an amusement park.
First, you take a small funicular train up, then you disembark and are guided through an artificially created Hmong village to the next station.
From there, it's about a 30-minute cable car ride to the summit station.
Don’t be discouraged by the crowds – surprisingly, they spread out well at both the middle station and the summit.

Once at the top, a final short funicular ride takes you all the way to the summit.
Along the way, you can admire impressive temples and a large Buddhist statue.

Good to know: It can get quite cold on Fansipan, so be sure to dress warmly.
During our stay, it was already foggy in Sa Pa, so we prepared for bad weather.
And sure enough, the higher we climbed, the worse it got.
By the time we reached the summit, visibility was so poor that it was only about 20 meters.
So, there was no view from the top, but despite the bad weather, the experience was special – and very doable with a toddler.

Trekking tour

Trekking is a great way to experience the mountainous nature and rural, ethnic cultures in Sa Pa.
The usual trekking tours for adults typically last between 3 and 8 hours.
Since you likely wouldn't want to do such a long tour with a baby or toddler, we recommend booking the tour through your accommodation.
They can cater to your preferences and select a shorter, possibly less challenging route.

Sa Pa Market

Another highlight in Sa Pa is the large market. Both outside and inside the market hall, various regional products are sold daily.
Outside, you'll mainly find fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, while inside, spices, souvenirs, toys, as well as traditional woven blankets and handmade clothes for all ages are offered. For us, the market was a real treasure trove, as our daughter loves dressing up.
We were able to buy many unique and high-quality clothing items for dress-up that you probably won’t find elsewhere.

Getting Around: If you have accommodation outside the center, it's best to take Grab to get there.
In the center, everything is within walking distance.
Due to the narrow, poorly developed sidewalks and the hilly terrain, we recommend leaving the stroller at your accommodation and instead using a baby carrier.

You can explore the surroundings of Sa Pa either with a private driver or, if you're an experienced rider, by scooter.
Both options can be arranged by your accommodation.
Important: Only ride a scooter when the weather is really good.
The roads can be very steep, poorly developed, and extremely slippery when wet.
For beginners or families with a baby or toddler, it’s too dangerous.

WAS THIS POST NOT ENOUGH FOR YOU? YOU WANT MORE TIPS, INSPIRATION, AND SIGHTSEEING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR VIETNAM TRIP? THEN BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR FOLLOWING POSTS:

• Vietnam Travel Guide: Essential Tips & Information for your Trip
• Traveling to Vietnam with a Baby & Toddler – Tips, Must-Knows & Our Experience
• Renting a scooter in Vietnam – Helpful Tips & Information
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• Discover Ho Chi Minh City: Top Attractions, Insider Tips & Highlights

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