Family Travel to Vietnam & Cambodia: Top Tips & Destinations
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia offers unforgettable adventures-explore top tips and must-see destinations to make the most of your journey through these vibrant Southeast Asian gems.
Best Time to Visit
Family Travel to Vietnam & Cambodia becomes more enjoyable when planned around the region’s tropical climate and seasonal changes. Both countries have distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the weather helps avoid discomfort, especially with young children.
- In Vietnam, the dry season lasts from November to April. This is the best time to explore Hanoi and Halong Bay. Central Vietnam’s beaches are also ideal during these months. Meanwhile the south remains warm and sunny throughout the year.
- In Cambodia, December to February offers the most pleasant weather. Days are cooler, which is perfect for visiting ancient temples and joining outdoor activities.
Moreover, the shoulder seasons-March to May and October to November-have their own advantages. During these times, you’ll find fewer crowds and more affordable options. Choosing the right season adds comfort to your trip and helps you avoid weather-related surprises. It also allows families to plan smoother travel days. By paying attention to the climate, you make the journey more fun and less tiring for everyone. Always check local weather before booking your trip. A bit of planning goes a long way toward a smooth and memorable family adventure in Southeast Asia.
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia: a journey rich in culture and beauty
Ideal Itinerary: 2 Weeks with Family
Combining both countries in a single itinerary is not only possible—it’s incredibly rewarding. A well-paced two-week plan lets you explore the highlights without feeling rushed.
- Days 1–4: Hanoi & Halong Bay, Vietnam
Start your journey in Hanoi with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, followed by an overnight cruise through the peaceful limestone islands of Halong Bay. - Days 5–7: Hoi An, Vietnam
Fly south to Hoi An, where lantern-lit streets, family-tailored cooking classes, and nearby beaches offer a mix of culture and downtime. - Days 8–9: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Explore southern Vietnam’s biggest city with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, bustling markets, and fun rooftop cafes. - Days 10–14: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Fly into Cambodia for an awe-inspiring tour of Angkor Wat and nearby temples. Add in floating villages, night markets, and a cultural performance to round out the experience.
This itinerary blends history, nature, city life, and relaxation—core pillars of family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Both Countries
From hands-on workshops to ancient wonders, family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia offers a perfect blend of fun and discovery.
For Vietnam Tours, start with a cruise through Halong Bay. The journey is safe, peaceful and includes activities like kayaking and cave exploring. For creative fun, try Hoi An is famous lantern workshops. Kids enjoy making colorful lanterns they can take home. For full-day excitement, head to VinWonders or Sun World Parks in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. These modern theme parks feature thrilling rides and splash zones.
Exploring Vietnam by kayak-family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia brings joy.
2-day/1-night family cruise with kayaking: From 3.6-4.8 million VND (~$145–$195 USD) per person; includes cabin stay, meals, kayaking, and cave visits-ideal for families seeking comfort and adventure.
Budget day tour with kayaking: From 1.2 million VND (~$50 USD) per person; full-day cruise (no overnight), includes lunch and basic kayaking-best for quick, affordable experiences.
In Cambodia, the incredible Angkor Wat temple complex is a must-see. Book a family-friendly guide and visit early to avoid heat. Next, experience the magic of Phare Circus in Siem Reap. This acrobatic show mixes storytelling and music with a strong social message. For a slower pace, explore the Tonlé Sap floating villages. A calm boat ride reveals daily life on the water and sparks cultural curiosity in young travelers.
These unforgettable highlights combine learning with leisure in a way that keeps children engaged and adults inspired. With thoughtful planning and the right mix of activities, your Southeast Asian journey becomes both meaningful and truly enjoyable for the whole family.
Phare Circus dazzles the night-family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia unforgettable
Angkor Wat Temple Complex
- Entry Fee: 910,000 VND (~$37) per adult for a 1-day pass (children under 12 are free)
- Guided Tour: 740,000–1,230,000 VND (~$30–$50) for a family-friendly local guide
- Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds
Phare Circus (Siem Reap)
- Tickets: 250,000–880,000 VND (~$10–$35) per person depending on seat zone (discounts for children available)
- Experience: Acrobatic show combining storytelling, live music, and a strong social message
- Tip: Book early—popular performances often sell out
Accommodation Tips
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia becomes even more enjoyable when you choose the right place to stay. Fortunately, family-friendly accommodations are easy to find in both countries. From luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, options are both plentiful and affordable.
In Vietnam, consider staying at Fusion Maia in Da Nang or La Siesta in Hoi An. These hotels offer family rooms, kids’ menus and relaxing pool areas. The service is warm and the atmosphere suits travelers with children.
For Cambodia Tours, especially around Siem Reap, many hotels welcome families with spacious rooms and saltwater pools. Some even offer cultural workshops that keep kids curious and engaged.
When booking, look for a few key features to ensure comfort. Choose places with breakfast included and close to main attractions. Pools or play areas also help children unwind after sightseeing. Always read reviews from other families before confirming your stay. Their insight often highlights details you might miss. With the right accommodation, your journey becomes much smoother and less stressful. Both countries provide a dependable mix of comfort and family-centered amenities. That peace of mind makes the whole experience far more enjoyable.
What Can Kids Eat?
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia comes with a tasty bonus—flavorful food that’s surprisingly kid-friendly and easy to enjoy. Dishes in both countries are rich in taste yet often mild, making them ideal for younger eaters. Restaurants in popular areas usually serve both local favorites and familiar Western options. Here’s a closer look at what to try:
In Vietnam
- Pho is a mild noodle soup served with beef or chicken that most kids will happily enjoy. It’s a comforting and familiar dish available almost everywhere in Vietnam. Prices range from 35,000 to 60,000 VND (approximately $1.40 to $2.40) per bowl, depending on the location and choice of meat.
- Banh mi combines grilled meat or egg in crusty French-style bread and offers a fun, handheld meal that’s perfect for kids on the go. Prices typically range from 20,000 to 35,000 VND (about $0.80 to $1.40) per sandwich.
- Grilled meat skewers and plates of fresh tropical fruit are simple, healthy, and widely available street foods. Skewers are tasty and protein-rich, while fruit is refreshing and easy to share. Meat skewers usually cost between 10,000 and 20,000 VND ($0.40 to $0.80) each, and fruit plates range from 15,000 to 40,000 VND ($0.60 to $1.60) depending on the variety and portion size.
Savoring Vietnam’s famous food-family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia feels complete
Tip: Buy Banh Mi in the Old Quarter, Not the Airport
Prices in local shops are much cheaper-just 20,000-30,000 VND ($0.80-$1.20), while airport prices can be 3-4 times higher.
In Cambodia
- Kuyteav is a light noodle soup, similar to phở but often made with pork or seafood, and is a popular breakfast or lunch option in Cambodia. Its mild flavor makes it appealing to children. Prices typically range from 25,000 to 50,000 VND (about $1.00 to $2.00) per bowl, depending on ingredients and setting.
- Amok is a creamy coconut curry steamed in banana leaves, usually made with fish or chicken. It’s rich in flavor but not spicy, making it perfect for kids when paired with rice. A serving generally costs between 50,000 and 90,000 VND (approximately $2.00 to $3.60).
- Fried rice, crispy chicken wings, and refreshing fruit smoothies are also widely available and loved by children everywhere. These comfort foods are easy to find in restaurants and street stalls alike. Fried rice usually ranges from 30,000 to 60,000 VND ($1.20 to $2.40), chicken wings from 40,000 to 70,000 VND ($1.60 to $2.80), and smoothies from 15,000 to 40,000 VND ($0.60 to $1.60), depending on ingredients and location.
Sampling Cambodian food delights-family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia tastes extraordinary
Tip: Try kuyteav at local stalls instead of touristy spots.
You’ll get an authentic meal for around 25,000–35,000 VND ($1–$1.40), often tastier and more affordable.
Getting Around
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia becomes less stressful with smart planning around transportation. Getting from one place to another is usually efficient and affordable, especially when traveling with children. Both countries offer a variety of safe and family-friendly options suited to different needs and budgets.
In Vietnam
Domestic flights like Hanoi to Danang are fast, affordable and reduce long travel time for families
Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and overnight trains are widely used and typically reliable
In Cambodia
Tuk-tuks are fun and budget-friendly, great for exploring cities at a slower pace
Private drivers are ideal for full-day temple visits or journeys beyond city limits
Crossing Borders
Flying between major hubs like Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap saves hours of travel time
Overland travel is possible but can be exhausting for children on long border routes
Recommended Ride Services
Grab (Vietnam): Ride-hailing app offering taxis and motorbikes; prices start around $1 / 25,000 VNĐ / 4,100 KHR per ride
PassApp (Cambodia):
Tuk-tuks typically have a flag-down fee of 3,000 KHR / $0.73 / 18,500 VNĐ
The minimum fare is usually 4,000 KHR / $0.97 / 24,500 VNĐ
Cultural Etiquette for Families
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia is not only about sightseeing but also about teaching kids to respect different cultures. Small efforts to be courteous can lead to big moments of connection. With a little preparation, families can travel more thoughtfully and respectfully. In both countries, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting temples. Covering shoulders and knees shows respect in religious settings. Always remove shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces like pagodas. This small gesture demonstrates cultural awareness and manners. Avoid touching anyone’s head, especially children. In both Vietnam and Cambodia, the head is considered spiritually sacred. This is often unfamiliar to foreign visitors, so explaining it to kids ahead of time helps.
Learning just a few local words goes a long way. A simple “hello” or “thank you” in Vietnamese or Khmer often brings smiles from locals. Children, especially, are warmly received when they greet others respectfully. Even everyday behavior, like speaking quietly or waiting patiently, helps foster a positive image of your family abroad. These experiences offer meaningful lessons that last beyond the trip. By showing care and curiosity, your journey becomes more than a vacation-it becomes a true cultural exchange.
Safety and Health Tips
Health and Safety Tips
Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues, especially in rural or unfamiliar areas
Apply mosquito repellent daily to prevent bites, particularly in forested zones or near standing water
Pack basic medications for fever, allergies or digestive concerns, as pharmacies may not carry your usual brands
Be sure your travel insurance covers children and includes emergency medical support if needed
City Awareness
Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Siem Reap are busy but generally considered safe for families
Always keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded markets or transport hubs
Use well-reviewed transportation apps or hotel-arranged taxis for better safety and reliability
Final Thoughts
Family travel to Vietnam and Cambodia offers a rich blend of culture, adventure and meaningful connection. Exploring Southeast Asia together gives families the chance to experience vibrant daily life, taste new foods and visit awe-inspiring sites. Children are welcomed warmly, often met with smiles and genuine curiosity from locals. From cruising through Halong Bay to watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, each moment brings discovery and delight. Hands-on experiences like cooking classes, lantern-making or village visits keep young minds engaged and curious. With thoughtful planning, every day can offer a healthy mix of fun and learning. If you’re choosing your next destination, Southeast Asia is well worth considering. The memories made here will stay with your family long after the trip ends-shaping how your children see the world with wonder and care.
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