13 days in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: itinerary with Top attractions and For kids and Shopping in Hanoi, Ha Noi (2026)

Day 1 begins at Hoàn Kiếm Lake at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for a leisurely stroll. Next, head to the Old Quarter at 10:30 AM - enjoy 2 hours exploring this vibrant area. To travel, consider a 10-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD). Finally, attend the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre at 1 PM - allow 1 hour for this cultural performance, which is a 5-minute walk from the Old Quarter.

Attractions

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

A serene escape in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake features beautiful scenery and the iconic Ngoc Son Temple, perfect for peaceful walks and family outings.

Old Quarter

Wander through vibrant streets filled with charming shops, street food stalls, and historical architecture that epitomizes the essence of Hanoi’s culture.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Experience traditional Vietnamese culture with an enchanting water puppet show, fascinating for both kids and adults, showcasing stories from folklore.

Day 2 starts at Vietnam Museum of Ethnology at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploration. Take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum by 11:30 AM - allow 1.5 hours here. Finally, travel by taxi (10 minutes, ~$4 USD) to the Temple Of Literature at 1:30 PM - spend 1.5 hours enjoying the intricate architecture and gardens.

Attractions

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Discover rich cultural diversity with engaging exhibits on Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups, featuring artifacts, art, and outside displays with traditional houses.

Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum

Pay homage to Vietnam's revolutionary leader at his monumental mausoleum, experiencing national reverence and seeing the changing of the guard ceremony.

Temple Of Literature

Vietnam's first university, dedicated to Confucius, combines beautiful architecture with serene gardens, an ideal spot for families to learn and explore.

Day 3 starts at Ngoc Son Temple at 9 AM - allow 30 minutes to explore. Travel next to cầu Long Biên - a 10-minute taxi ride (~$3 USD), arriving by 10 AM for another 30 minutes. Finally, head to the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum - a 15-minute taxi ride (~$4 USD), starting at 11 AM and allowing 90 minutes to enjoy the exhibits.

Attractions

Ngoc Son Temple

This picturesque temple on Hoan Kiem Lake is a blend of folklore and architecture, a great family-friendly stop that tells stories of Hanoi’s past.

cầu Long Biên

An iconic symbol of Hanoi and its resilience, this historical bridge offers stunning views of the Red River and a glimpse into local life.

Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum

Explore Vietnamese creativity through various art forms in a stunning building, perfect for art lovers and families seeking cultural enrichment.

Day 4 starts at Hanoi Street Food Tour at 9 AM - allow 3 hours to savor local delights. Travel to Sky Lotte Observation Deck by taxi (~15 mins, ~$5 USD) for stunning views at 12:30 PM, spending 1 hour there. Afterward, take a 30-minute taxi ride (~$10 USD) to Bat Trang Pottery Village at 2 PM - allow 2 hours to explore. Enjoy a balanced mix of food, sights, and art!

Attractions

Hanoi Street Food Tour

Dive into Hanoi's vibrant street food scene with guided tours that highlight local dishes and hidden culinary gems, perfect for families and foodies alike.

Sky Lotte Observation Deck

Enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling city from one of Hanoi's tallest buildings, making for a memorable family experience and perfect photo opportunities.

Bat Trang Pottery Village

Engage in traditional pottery-making experiences in this charming village, a fun and educational activity for families looking to explore local crafts.

Day 5 starts at Bach Ma Temple at 9 AM - allow 45 minutes to explore this beautiful temple. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Vincom Center Metropolis at 10:15 AM, spending 2 hours shopping or dining. Finally, take a 15-minute taxi to Trung Tâm Đào Tạo Và Chỉ Đạo Tuyến - BV Việt Đức at 12:45 PM for a 2-hour visit, enjoying the vibrant local medical education atmosphere.

Attractions

Bach Ma Temple

One of the oldest temples in Hanoi, known for its sacred ambiance and intricate architecture, offering a peaceful escape from the city hustle and bustle.

Vincom Center Metropolis

A modern shopping destination with numerous retail brands, dining options, and entertainment suited for families, ensuring a pleasant shopping experience in the city.

Trung Tâm Đào Tạo Và Chỉ Đạo Tuyến - BV Việt Đức

An educational center that offers fun and interactive experiences for kids to learn about Vietnamese culture and history.

Day 1 starts at Ben Thanh Market at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Take a 10-minute taxi (~$2 USD) to the War Remnants Museum by 11:30 AM; spend another 2 hours here. Finally, at 2 PM, take a 10-minute taxi (~$2 USD) to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon; enjoy this site for 1 hour. All visits are centrally located for easy access.

Attractions

Ben Thanh Market

Experience vibrant local culture and shop for crafts, textiles, and street food at this iconic market, a perfect spot to pick souvenirs.

War Remnants Museum

Explore Vietnam's historical struggles through poignant exhibits showcasing the Vietnam War's impact on the country and its people.

Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon

Admire this beautiful French colonial church, famous for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere in the heart of the bustling city.

Day 2 starts at Saigon Skydeck at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for stunning views. Take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão, arriving around 11 AM for a leisurely 2-hour exploration of vibrant street life and local cafés. At 1:30 PM, take a 10-minute walk to Tao Dan Park for a relaxing hour amidst nature.

Attractions

Saigon Skydeck

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City from the Sky Deck, an unforgettable experience that showcases the city’s stunning skyline.

Đường Phạm Ngũ Lão

This bustling backpacker area is filled with restaurants, bars, and street food stalls, making it a perfect spot for trying local cuisine.

Tao Dan Park

Escape the city buzz in this peaceful park filled with lush trees and flower gardens, ideal for family outings and relaxing strolls.

Day 3 starts at Mariamman Hindu Temple at 9 AM – allow 30 minutes to explore. Travel 10 minutes by taxi (~$5) to Binh Tay Market for 1.5 hours of vibrant shopping and dining at 10:00 AM. At 12 PM, take a 15-minute taxi (~$5) to Independence Palace; allow 2 hours for the fascinating history tour. End the day comfortably with leisure walks nearby.

Attractions

Mariamman Hindu temple

Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate carvings of this historic Hindu temple, recognizing the diverse cultural influences in the city.

Binh Tay Market

Experience mass shopping and local street food at this bustling Chinese-style market, a cultural gem away from the tourist trail.

Independence Palace

Explore this historic and beautiful building that symbolizes the reunification of Vietnam, showcasing significant architectural styles.

Start Day 4 at Jade Emperor Pagoda at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore. Then, take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Dam Sen Cultural Park by 10:30 AM for 3 hours of fun. Enjoy a leisurely lunch nearby. Finally, at 2 PM, catch a 20-minute taxi (~$6 USD) to Nguyễn Huệ for 2 hours of shopping and relaxing in the lively atmosphere.

Attractions

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Experience the vibrant rituals and stunning architecture of this iconic pagoda, one of Ho Chi Minh City's most important spiritual landmarks.

Dam Sen Cultural Park

Perfect for families, this amusement park features water rides, gardens, and play areas, making it a fun day out for kids and adults alike.

Nguyễn Huệ

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at this pedestrian street lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, ideal for an evening stroll.

Day 5 starts at Bitexco Financial Tower at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for the observation deck. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to the Sunflower Field by 11 AM - spend 60 minutes admiring the blooms. Head to the Ao Dai Museum at 12:30 PM with a 20-minute taxi ride (~$7 USD) and enjoy 2 hours exploring Vietnam's traditional attire. A balanced day mixing sightseeing and leisure!

Attractions

Bitexco Financial Tower

This skyscraper is known for its helipad and observation deck that offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City and beyond.

Sunflower Field

Visit this beautiful sunflower field for a picturesque and unique photo opportunity, especially vibrant during bloom season from November to December.

Ao Dai Museum

Discover the beauty of Vietnam's traditional dress, the Ao Dai, through fascinating exhibits that celebrate its history and cultural significance.

Start Day 6 at KizCiti at 9 AM (allow 3 hours for fun activities). From KizCiti, take a 15-minute taxi (~$5 USD) to Đường Bùi Viện and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and street food from 12:30 PM for 2 hours. Finally, head to LOTTE Mart - District 7 at 3 PM; expect a 20-minute taxi ride (~$7 USD) for shopping and leisure until 5 PM.

Attractions

KizCiti

An educational and fun theme park designed for kids aged 3-14, featuring role-playing activities that allow them to explore various professions.

Đường Bùi Viện

A famous nightlife area known for its energetic atmosphere, offering countless bars and eateries, perfect for late-night dining and socializing.

LOTTE Mart - District 7

One of the largest shopping centers in Ho Chi Minh City, Lotte Mart offers everything from groceries to fashion, ideal for family shopping.

Day 7 starts at Saigon Central Post Office at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for photos and exploration. Take a 15-minute taxi ride (~$5 USD) to Suoi Tien Theme Park, arriving by 10:30 AM for 3 hours of fun. To wrap up, head to Ben Thanh Market at 2 PM, a 30-minute taxi ride (~$7 USD) for 2 hours of shopping and local food.

Attractions

Saigon Central Post Office

A stunning example of French colonial architecture, the Saigon Central Post Office is not only functional but also historical, featuring beautiful murals and an impressive interior.

Suoi Tien Theme Park

A unique cultural theme park that combines amusement rides with traditional Vietnamese folklore, perfect for a family day out.

Ben Thanh Market

A local market offering a wide variety of goods, food, and inexpensive souvenirs, providing an authentic shopping experience.

Day 8 starts at Bình Quới Tourist Village at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore the scenic gardens and local dishes. Travel 30 minutes by taxi (~$10) to Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum at 11:30 AM, spending 1.5 hours admiring the exhibitions. Afterward, take a 20-minute taxi ride (~$8) to LOTTE Mart in District 7, arriving at 1:30 PM for 2 hours of shopping and leisure.

Attractions

Bình Quới Tourist Village

A peaceful retreat that showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture, food, and beautiful landscapes, ideal for a cultural escape.

Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum

An interactive 3D art museum where families can take creative photos with impressive artwork that 'comes to life'.

LOTTE Mart - District 7

An urban shopping center offering a range of local and international products with a food court that features a variety of Vietnamese and Asian cuisine.

13 days in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: itinerary with Top attractions and For kids and Shopping

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Hoàn Kiếm Lake

Old Quarter

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

Day 13