Vietnam and Cambodia are a popular combination for a Southeast Asia trip. They are adjacent and home to several bucket-list Southeast Asia attractions: the world-famous Ha Long Bay, the rustic Mekong Delta, the mesmerizing Angkor Wat, and many more.
For a first visit, 2 weeks is ideal to get a good overview of Vietnam and Cambodia. Vietnam is much bigger than Cambodia and has more to explore, thus to get diverse experiences, you're suggested to spend more time in Vietnam.
2-Week Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary for First-Timers
This two-week journey will take you to delve into the rich history and cultural treasures of both Vietnam and Cambodia.
Begin in Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant capital, and cruise through the picturesque Hạ Long Bay. Discover the UNESCO-listed town of Hội An before venturing to Ho Chi Minh City.
Transition to Cambodia to explore the iconic Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious temple site. This condensed itinerary promises a seamless blend of historic wonders and cultural richness across two enchanting nations.
Brief Itinerary:
- Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
- Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
- Day 3: Hanoi—Halong Bay
- Day 4: Halong Bay Exploration
- Day 5: Halong Bay—Hanoi Airport—Da Nang
- Day 6: Da Nang—Hoi An—Da Nang| Hoi An Town Tour
- Days 7-8: Da Nang | Free Day to Enjoy the Beach and Sunshine
- Day 9: Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City
- Day 10: Unveil the Mekong Delta
- Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City City Tour, Fly to Siem Reap
- Day 12-13: Siem Reap | Explore the UNESCO Site—Angkor Wat
- Day 14: Siem Reap Departure
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you'll be greeted and transferred to your accommodation in the heart of the city.
Take a moment to unwind from your journey and acclimate to the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi. Depending on your arrival time, consider a leisurely stroll around the vicinity, sampling local street food or enjoying a quiet evening in the historic Old Quarter.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Start your day in Hanoi by exploring its rich history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh's House, Temple of Literature, and the Museum of Ethnology. Transition into the present with a 1-hour cyclo tour through the Old Quarter, discovering the unique functions of each block.
Wrap up your day with a traditional water puppet performance in the heart of the city, immersing yourself in the captivating cultural heritage of Hanoi.
Day 3: Hanoi—Halong Bay
Embark on a scenic journey to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts.
Board a cruise ship and set sail through the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay. Explore the enchanting Sung Sot Cave and engage in optional activities like kayaking. Enjoy the evening on the cruise, savoring a delectable dinner as the sun sets over the bay.
Insider tips: If you don't love huge impersonal tours, definitely go for a smaller cruise ship. And for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays, we can arrange a whole houseboat just for your family or partner. If you want to have fewer boats around you, choose a cruise that takes you to Bai Tu Long or Lan Ha Bay - which are more secluded and less-crowded bays.
Day 4: Halong Bay Exploration
Embark on another enchanting day in Halong Bay, sailing into less-explored corners of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following a hearty breakfast on the cruise, immerse yourself in a cooking class, where you'll uncover the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.
The day unfolds with opportunities for relaxation on the deck, soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, or participating in optional activities. As the day draws to a close, indulge in a delectable dinner amidst the captivating landscapes of Halong Bay.
Day 5: Halong Bay—Hanoi Airport—Da Nang
Bid farewell to the stunning vistas of Halong Bay as you disembark from the cruise. Return to Hanoi and make your way to Noi Bai International Airport for a flight to Da Nang.
Day 6: Da Nang—Hoi An—Da Nang | Walk around Hoi An Town
Embark on a scenic journey to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and timeless charm. The ancient town beckons with lantern-lit streets and captivating ambience.
Take a leisurely stroll, exploring ancient houses and immersing yourself in the local markets. Conclude the day with a traditional Vietnamese meal that encapsulates the essence of Hoi An. Return to Da Nang in the evening, reflecting on the day's cultural discoveries.
Insider tips: The countryside surrounding Hoi An is beautiful. Our unique half-day farming experience tour with a cooking class allows you to see rural life in Vietnam and experience the peaceful countryside.
Days 7-8: Da Nang | Free Day to Enjoy the Beach and Sunshine
The next two days are yours to bask in the sun and relish the coastal beauty of Da Nang. Whether you choose to unwind on the pristine beaches, explore the towering Marble Mountains, or engage in water activities, the agenda is entirely yours.
Day 9: Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City
Embark on a flight to the dynamic metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. As you settle into your accommodation, absorb the energetic pulse of southern Vietnam. Optionally, explore local markets or take a leisurely stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where modernity and tradition seamlessly converge.
Day 10: Unveil the Mekong Delta
Today's adventure unfolds in the heart of the Mekong Delta as you journey to Ben Tre.
A full-day exploration awaits, featuring a scenic Mekong River cruise, visits to local villages, and an immersion into the flavors of Mekong cuisine. As the sun sets, return to Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting on the day's encounters with the Mekong's rich cultural tapestry.
Insider tips: For couples, an alternative option is to embark on a luxury Mekong cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia, offering a truly unique experience for your milestone romantic trip. This journey allows you to delve into the Mekong Delta at a leisurely pace, providing ample opportunities for private and serene moments on board. Check the details in our 2-week Vietnam-and-Cambodia Itinerary for Couple.
Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City City Tour, Fly to Siem Reap
Embark on a comprehensive exploration of Ho Chi Minh City, beginning with visits to architectural landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the Central Post Office. Dive into the historical depth of the Cu Chi Tunnels, gaining insights into Vietnam's wartime resilience.
As the day concludes, board a flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, where you'll settle into your accommodations.
Day 12: Siem Reap | Explore the UNESCO Site—Angkor Wat
Rise with the sun to explore the majestic Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its intricate carvings, vast courtyards, and iconic spires.
Continue your journey to Angkor Thom, where Bayon Temple's stone faces and the Terrace of the Elephants reveal the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Conclude your day amidst the captivating embrace of nature at Ta Prohm, where ancient ruins intertwine with towering tree roots.
Day 13: Siem Reap | Ride a Quad Bike and Enjoy the Unbeatable Sunset
Embark on a thrilling quad bike adventure through the Cambodian countryside, discovering lesser-known temples and gaining a unique perspective of Siem Reap's rural landscapes.
As daylight wanes, witness a spectacular sunset over the Angkor temples, an experience that promises to be a fitting highlight of your journey.
Day 14: Siem Reap Departure
Your 2-week Southeast Asian adventure concludes in Siem Reap. Spend your final moments in this vibrant city with optional last-minute explorations or shopping.
How Much Does a 2-Week Vietnam and Cambodia Tour Cost?
A private tour in Vietnam and Cambodia can be an exclusive, stress-free, and affordable experience for both families and couples.
Generally, you would usually need to pay around US$200–250 per day per person (including airfares within Vietnam and Cambodia, 4/5-star hotels, lunches, attractions, private guides, and private transfers). Kids below 10 would get around 30% to 50% discounts.
Thus, a typical private tour to Vietnam and Cambodia usually costs US$9,500–12,000 for a family trip with 2 adults and 2 kids, while a couple can expect to spend around US$5,600–7,000, excluding the cost of international flights to and from their home country.
Insider's Tips on Cost
The price usually fluctuates as the weather changes in SE Asia. Owing to the drier weather, you can expect the peak prices between November and April, especially around the Christmas and New Year holiday periods. Early bookings 3-6 months beforehand would be ideal to secure the best deals.
The lowest costs usually come from May to October, in the rainy season. Rarely with constant rainfall for even a whole day, traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia can still be fun-filled and mostly dry with a well-organized and flexible private rainy-season tour.
To balance the price and weather prospects, traveling just before or after the high season (late October and early May) is a wise choice for a compromise.
Tailor-Making Your Vietnam and Cambodia Trip With Us
You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, budgets, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.
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