Are you ready for the journey of a lifetime? Join us on an incredible 14-day trip through Vietnam and Cambodia, where you’ll discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of these two beautiful countries. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the majestic temples of Siem Reap, this adventure will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Trip Highlights
- Attend Cao Dai religious ceremony: Immerse yourself in the unique blend of Buddhism, Christianity, and Confucianism at a Cao Dai religious ceremony.
- Experience an “Indiana Jones” adventure: Navigate through dense jungle to reach the recently discovered Beng Mealea temple, making you feel like a real-life Indiana Jones.
- Capture the essence of Vietnam and Cambodia: Get a taste of the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia in just two weeks.
Trip Summary
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Upon arrival at Hanoi airport, you will receive a warm welcome and be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring Hanoi on your own. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Embark on a full-day city tour of Hanoi, starting with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh complex, which includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh Museum, The Presidential Palace, House on stilts, and One Pillar Pagoda. Continue to the Temple of Literature, known as the First University of Vietnam. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. In the afternoon, take a fascinating walking tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to discover its daily life and hidden charms. Overnight in Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi > Halong
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Halong Bay. Board a traditional wooden boat/cruise and sail through the stunning limestone karsts. Take in the breathtaking scenery, relax, and swim. Visit the Floating Fishing village and, if weather permits, enjoy a refreshing swim. Overnight on board.
Day 4: Halong > Hanoi
Start your day with the mesmerizing sunrise over Halong Bay. After breakfast, visit a beautiful limestone grotto before cruising back to the dock. Return to Hanoi and overnight in the city.
Day 5: Hanoi > Hue
Transfer to Noi Bai airport for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. In the afternoon, explore the city, including the Citadel, the Forbidden Purple City, the Imperial Museum, and Dong Ba market. Overnight in Hue.
Day 6: Hue > Hoi An
After breakfast, discover the ancient capital city of Hue. Take a boat trip along the Perfume River, visiting Thien Mu Pagoda and Minh Mang’s tomb. After lunch, transfer to Hoi An via the Hai Van pass, with a stop at the Cham Museum and a handicraft village at the foot of Marble Mountain. Check-in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the charming town of Hoi An. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 7: Hoi An > My Son > Hoi An
In the morning, depart from your hotel to My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient Hindu temples of the Cham culture, built between the 7th and 13th centuries. Return to Hoi An town and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, shopping or discovering the ancient town. Overnight in Hoi An.
Day 8: Hoi An > Flight to Ho Chi Minh City
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, embark on a city tour, visiting famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City > Mekong River Delta > Ho Chi Minh City
Depart from Saigon and journey to the Mekong River Delta. Explore Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, take a boat ride along the river, and experience the local way of life in stilt houses, fruit plantations, and fishing villages. Enjoy a hand-rowed sampan ride and savor seasonal fruits and honey tea while listening to traditional Vietnamese folk music. Return to Saigon with unforgettable memories. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City > Cu Chi > Cao Dai Temple > Ho Chi Minh City
Embark on a journey to the Great Holy See Temple of Cao Dai, a fascinating religious structure. Witness the midday ceremony held by Cao Dai followers. In the afternoon, visit the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the war. Explore the tunnels and gain insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese people. Return to Saigon for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City > Flight to Siem Reap
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap. Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 12: Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat Temples
Explore the magnificent Angkor Thom, including the South Gate, Bayon temple, Baphuon temple, Terrace of Elephants, Terrace of Leper King, and Phimean Akas temple. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Angkor Wat temple, one of the most breathtaking monuments in the world. Witness a stunning sunset view from Angkor Wat. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 13: Phnom Kulen & the Beng Mealea Temple
Embark on a trip to Phnom Kulen, the sacred birthplace of the Khmer empire. Experience the stunning views of the plains, discover stone carvings, and visit hidden pagodas. Take a refreshing bath under a picturesque waterfall. Return to Siem Reap for lunch and then venture into the jungle to explore the mysterious Beng Mealea temple, reminiscent of an “Indiana Jones” adventure. Overnight in Siem Reap.
Day 14: Siem Reap
Enjoy your last day at your leisure in Siem Reap before your transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this virtual journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. If you’re ready to embark on this incredible adventure, book your trip today with Travel Guide. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.