Articles 25 Jul 2025

Top 5 Southeast Asian Countries for Traveling with Kids

School holidays are coming soon. If you’re still unsure or if it’s your first time planning an overseas trip with your child and you want to avoid dealing with a visa, don’t worry. You can take your children and your partner to these visa-free and family-friendly Southeast Asian countries!

Singapore

The first country on this list is Singapore. As a developed nation with the highest economic level in Southeast Asia, Singapore is very much deserving of being called a child-friendly country. That’s because it offers modern comfort, clean streets, and safe public spaces.

Quoting from Asia Tours, this 735.7-square-kilometer country combines urban sophistication with a wide variety of attractions and destinations for children. These include theme parks, city exploration via public transportation that connects all corners of Singapore, culinary tourism, public parks, and family-friendly shopping areas.

Some must-visit kid-friendly destinations in Singapore are Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, and the Singapore Zoo.

Malaysia

The second country is Malaysia, a multicultural nation divided into two main landmasses: one on the Asian mainland and the other in the northern part of Borneo Island. The peninsular region, where the country’s capital is located, is a popular and child-friendly tourist destination. 

This is thanks to Malaysia's unique blend of entertainment, nature, and rich cultural experiences. It offers plenty of kid-friendly amusement parks, safe nature tourism, and historical and cultural exhibits that provide educational experiences.

As one of the most economically developed countries in Southeast Asia, Malaysia certainly has modern urban infrastructure. One example is a well-connected public transport system that makes it easier for you and your kids to explore the country comfortably.

Some must-visit destinations in Malaysia include the Petronas Towers, the playground in KLCC Park, Batu Caves, and the historic city of Malacca, which is only a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Thailand

The next destination is Thailand. This country offers many types of travel experiences for you and your children. From bustling metropolitan cities and jungle adventures to beautiful islands that can be explored with the whole family. In short, Thailand is perfect for families who love outdoor exploration.

If you, your partner, and your kids enjoy adventurous outdoor activities, Thailand is a great choice. Go explore cultural sites like temples or historical buildings, go trekking in the mountains, or relax at quiet beaches.

Some kid-friendly tourist spots in Bangkok, Thailand, include the Buddha statue at Wat Pho, the Chao Phraya River, and the Erawan Museum. In the city of Chiang Mai, you can take your little ones to Wat Chedi Luang temple, enjoy some treats at the night market, or go trekking with a tour guide through a private package tour.

Vietnam

The fourth country is Vietnam. A bit more adventurous than Thailand, Vietnam as a whole offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Southeast AsiaThink towering limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and a maze of rivers, swamps, and islands that form the Mekong Delta.However, if you prefer a city tour with your child, head to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Hanoi is rich in history, culture, and local life, providing plenty of learning opportunities for kids. The capital also has fairly child-friendly public transportation options.

Some must-visit places in Vietnam include the Ho Chi Minh Complex, the Temple of Literature, the Hanoi Old Quarter, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Philippines

The final country on this list is the Philippines. As an archipelago, the Philippines offers a holiday experience closely tied to the sea. You can take your kids to clear-water beaches, quiet islands, and enjoy diverse marine life. 

Palawan Island is a kid-friendly destination perfect for families who love sea adventures. Some fun activities to do with your little ones here include exploring the natural wonder of the Puerto Princesa Underground River, an island tour around El Nido or Coron, and relaxing on clean, quiet beaches.

But if you’re more into a city-style holiday, Manila can be an ideal family destination with its combination of cultural, recreational, and outdoor activities. Take your kids to historical sites like Intramuros and Rizal Park, the interactive The Mind Museum, the themed Manila Ocean Park, or stroll along Manila Baywalk and Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center.

Those are our top five Southeast Asian countries perfect for traveling with kids. Before taking your little ones on a holiday, don’t forget to purchase Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia to protect you and your family on every trip, both domestic and international.

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