23 Days in Southeast Asia: Discover the Sights, Sounds & Flavors of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Embark on an extraordinary 23-day "Sensation of Southeast Asia" journey, meticulously crafted to unveil the best of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. This comprehensive tour is jam-packed with diverse activities, offering an unparalleled immersive experience across the region. From the bustling markets and ancient temples of Vietnam, to the awe-inspiring ruins of Angkor in Cambodia, and the vibrant cities and lush landscapes of Thailand, every day promises new discoveries and unforgettable memories.

Your adventure begins in the charming capital of Hanoi, leading you through the mystical Halong Bay, the imperial city of Hue, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City and Mekong Delta. You'll then traverse into Cambodia to explore Phnom Penh's poignant history and Siem Reap's magnificent Angkorian temples. Finally, journey to Thailand, experiencing the vibrant markets and majestic temples of Bangkok, and the cultural richness of northern Thailand, including Chiang Mai, Doi Inthanon, Lampang, and the Golden Triangle.

Designed for comfort and ease, this tour includes all flights, land transfers, tickets, accommodation, and most meals. With a focus on cruises, hiking, river boat trips, lake sightseeing, and deep dives into culture and history, you'll be guided by knowledgeable, English-speaking experts who will illuminate every step of your journey. Get ready to awaken your senses and create a lifetime of memories on this epic Southeast Asian adventure!

OVERVIEW ITINERARY

Here is overview itinerary. Please contact for more details and better offers. 

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi.

Day 2-3: Halong Bay overnight cruise.

Day 4: Hanoi city tour & flight to Hue.

Day 5: Hue imperial tour & transfer to Hoi An.

Day 6-7: Hoi An (My Son Sanctuary & leisure).

Day 8: Flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City tour & Cu Chi Tunnels.

Day 10-11: Mekong Delta exploration, overnight in Can Tho, then to Chau Doc.

Day 12: Speedboat from Chau Doc (Vietnam) to Phnom Penh (Cambodia).

Day 13: Phnom Penh sights (Royal Palace/S21/Killing Fields choice) & flight to Siem Reap.

Day 14: Explore Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm.

Day 15: Explore remote temples: Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, Banteay Srey.

Day 16: Siem Reap museum & Tonle Sap Lake; flight to Bangkok, Thailand.

Day 17: Bangkok markets (Maeklong, Damnoen Saduak Floating Market).

Day 18: Ayutthaya ancient city tour & river cruise.

Day 19: Bangkok temples (optional Grand Palace) & flight to Chiang Mai.

Day 20: Chiang Mai: Doi Inthanon National Park.

Day 21: Chiang Mai: Day trip to Lampang (Elephant Centre, temples).

Day 22: Chiang Mai: Golden Triangle area & hill tribe villages.

Day 23: Depart from Chiang Mai.

DETAIL PROGRAM:

Day 1: Hanoi, Vietnam: Arrival & Leisure

• Meals: None

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

• Activities:

  • Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, you'll receive a warm welcome and a comfortable transfer to your hotel.

  • The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Feel free to explore the vibrant city on your own, relax, or prepare for your adventure.

  • Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 2: Hanoi → Halong Bay, Vietnam: Overnight Cruise

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

• Accommodation: Overnight on boat in Halong Bay

• Activities:

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and depart for Halong Bay at approximately 8:00 AM.

  • Upon arrival in Halong Bay, you will be warmly welcomed aboard your traditional Vietnamese vessel.

  • Partake in a delectable lunch served on board as you begin to cruise through thousands of stunning limestone islands and islets, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

  • Following lunch, you may freshen up in your room before embarking on a visit to the magnificent Surprising Cave (Sung Sot Cave).

  • Engage in exciting activities such as kayaking through hidden lagoons or swimming in the emerald waters (weather permitting).

  • Later, return to the vessel, get a drink, and enjoy the picturesque sunset scenery in the bay, followed by a delicious dinner onboard.

  • Overnight on boat in Halong Bay.

Day 3: Halong Bay → Hanoi, Vietnam: Bay Exploration & Return

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

• Activities:

  • Morning: Breakfast will be served on board.

  • We will then proceed to cruise to a Pearl Farm village to learn about pearl cultivation.

  • Continue exploring the enchanting Halong Bay, navigating through numerous captivating islands and islets, taking in the stunning scenery.

  • During lunch on board, we will make our way back to the pier before transferring back to Hanoi.

  • Overnight in Hanoi.

Day 4: Hanoi → Hue, Vietnam: City Sights & Imperial Flight

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hue

• Activities:

  • Morning: Explore the Temple of Literature, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Vietnam's first national university, discovering its rich history and beautiful architecture.

  • Walk around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, a central point of Hanoi, and visit the Ngoc Son Temple, perched elegantly on an island in the lake.

  • Continue your exploration at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, which showcases the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

  • After your morning tour and lunch, you'll be transferred to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your domestic flight to Hue.

  • Upon arrival at Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) in Hue, you’ll be taken to your hotel for check-in and leisure.

  • Overnight in Hue.

Day 5: Hue → Hoi An, Vietnam: Imperial History & Ancient Town Journey

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

• Activities:

  • Morning: Begin your Hue city tour with a tranquil boat trip to Thien Mu Pagoda, an iconic seven-story pagoda overlooking the Perfume River.

  • We then continue our visit at the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former imperial capital, and the Hue Royal Antiques Museum.

  • Visit Dong Ba Market, a bustling local market, and have lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local Hue specialties.

  • Afternoon: Visit the majestic Tomb of King Minh Mang and the elaborate Tomb of King Khai Dinh, both renowned for their unique architecture and serene settings.

  • Proceed our tour at a nearby village where people making incense stick and conical hat, observing traditional craftsmanship.

  • After that, we transfer you to Hoi An, a scenic drive through the Hai Van Pass.

  • Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 6: Hoi An, Vietnam: My Son Sanctuary & Ancient Town Charm

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

• Activities:

  • Morning: After breakfast, start the tour by visiting My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient complex of Hindu temples was the religious and political center of the Champa Kingdom.

  • Afternoon: Return to Hoi An and explore Hoi An Ancient Town on foot. Your walking tour includes: Hoi An’s Colorful Local Market, the historic Old House of Tan Ky (a 200-year-old merchant's house), the Fujian Assembly Hall (a Chinese temple), and the iconic 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge.

  • Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 7: Hoi An, Vietnam: Leisure & Exploration

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

• Activities:

  • Breakfast at your hotel.

  • Today is your leisure time for walking around the Old Town for shopping, exploring charming alleys, relaxing at a riverside cafe, or even enjoying a cooking class in Hoi An.

  • Overnight in Hoi An.

Day 8: Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Flight to the South

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

• Activities:

  • Breakfast at your hotel. Spend a little leisure time.

  • Our driver transfers you to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, you will be taken to your hotel for check-in.

  • The rest of the day is your own time to explore the city yourselves.

  • Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Historical Landmarks & Cu Chi Tunnels

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

• Activities:

  • Morning: We explore the Re-Unification Palace, which was the home and workplace of the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War, and played a pivotal role in the war's end.

  • Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French colonial architecture, and learn about its unique history.

  • Continue your tour at the War Remnants Museum, which provides a thought-provoking and often graphic look into the harsh realities and consequences of the Vietnam War.

  • Afternoon: We leave the city and drive approximately 60km to Cu Chi, where you can delve into the intricate system of tunnels. Explore the Cu Chi Tunnel, an impressive feat of engineering used by Viet Cong guerrillas, providing a significant insight into the Vietnam War. You'll have the option to crawl through some sections (if comfortable).

  • Afterwards, enjoy tea and cassava (a staple food for guerrillas during the war).

  • Once the tour is complete, we will make our way back to the city.

  • Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta, Vietnam: River Life & Rural Charm

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Can Tho

• Activities:

  • Following breakfast at the hotel, we will depart from Ho Chi Minh City and head towards Ben Tre in the Mekong Delta.

  • Our journey will include a fascinating boat trip along the Mekong River, during which we will visit a family-run business that exemplifies the idyllic rural lifestyle, such as a coconut candy workshop or brick kilns.

  • We will also have the opportunity to stroll through a lush fruit plantation village, sampling fresh local produce (seasonal).

  • Overnight in Can Tho.

Day 11: Mekong Delta → Chau Doc, Vietnam: Floating Market & River Journey

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Chau Doc

• Activities:

  • Around 6:30 AM, we pick you up to visit the Cai Rang floating market, the largest wholesale market of fruit and vegetables in the Mekong Delta, which is at its busiest at this time of the day.

  • Keep cruising through the small channels system and visit a rice noodle making village to see how this local staple is produced.

  • Experience the unique “Monkey Bridge” in the Delta (a traditional, often narrow, bamboo bridge).

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  • We then head to Chau Doc, a border town known for its diverse communities and river life.

  • Overnight in Chau Doc.

Day 12: Chau Doc, Vietnam → Phnom Penh, Cambodia: Speedboat Crossing & Capital Arrival

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

• Activities:

  • Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.

  • After that, take a speed boat from Chau Doc, Vietnam to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This scenic river journey offers a unique perspective on life along the Mekong.

  • Arrive at Sisowath tourist quay in Phnom Penh around 2:00 PM.

  • You'll be met by your Cambodian guide and transferred to your hotel.

  • The rest of the day is your leisure time to explore the city on your own, perhaps along the riverside promenade.

  • Overnight in Phnom Penh.

Day 13: Phnom Penh → Siem Reap, Cambodia: Historical Insights & Flight to Angkor

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

• Activities:

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace and its magnificent Silver Pagoda. This morning offers a choice based on your preference and emotional preparedness:

    • Option A: Explore the solemn Choeung Ek Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21 prison). These sites offer a sobering reminder of Cambodia's turbulent history and provide a deeper understanding of the country's resilience.

    • Option B: Alternatively, for a less intense historical focus, you can visit Wat Phnom, a significant Buddhist temple on a small hill, offering a glimpse into the city's origins.

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Afternoon: Transfer to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) for your domestic flight to Siem Reap.

  • Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport (REP), you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

  • Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 14: Siem Reap, Cambodia: Explore the Angkor Complex

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

• Activities:

  • Morning: Begin your exploration of the magnificent Angkor complex by visiting Angkor Thom, the ancient walled capital of the Khmer empire. Here, you'll see the iconic Bayon temple with its captivating smiling faces and the Terrace of the Elephants.

  • Then, continue your visit to Ta Prohm, a stunning temple complex famously left largely as it was found, with colossal trees and vegetation growing around and through its structures, creating a mystical atmosphere.

  • Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.

  • Afternoon: You will visit Angkor Wat, the most famous and well-preserved of all the temples in Angkor. Angkor Wat is a massive temple complex and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world, renowned for its intricate bas-reliefs and architectural grandeur.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delightful buffet dinner accompanied by a captivating Khmer Traditional Dance Show (Apsara dance) at a local restaurant.

  • Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 15: Siem Reap, Cambodia: Explore Beng Mealea & Koh Ker's Jungle Temples

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

• Activities:

  • Depart the city at 8:00 AM and head to Koh Ker, which takes about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, you will venture into the deserted ruins and surrounding forest to explore the Koh Ker temple complex, the former capital of the Angkorian empire during the years AD 928 to AD 944, offering a more secluded and adventurous experience.

  • At 10:30 AM, you will drive back towards Siem Reap. On the way back, make stops at two significant temples: Prasat Neang Khmaw & Prasat Pram.

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Beng Mealea temple.

  • At 1:30 PM, visit Beng Mealea temple. Enjoy a short walk through the dense jungle and discover the wonders of this overgrown temple, which lay undiscovered for centuries, providing a truly adventurous and atmospheric experience.

  • You will then proceed to the last temple visit of the day, Banteay Srey, often called the “gem” of the Angkor area, known for its exquisite, intricate pink sandstone carvings.

  • Overnight in Siem Reap.

Day 16: Siem Reap → Bangkok, Thailand: Museum, Lake & Flight

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

• Activities:

  • Morning: Visit the Angkor National Museum at 7:30 AM to delve deeper into the history and art of the Khmer Empire.

  • After the museum, embark on a fascinating boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake for sightseeing. Tonle Sap Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia and home to unique floating villages.

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Afternoon: Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport (REP) for your international flight to Bangkok, Thailand (approximate flight time: 16:55-18:55).

  • Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

  • Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 17: Bangkok, Thailand: Dynamic Markets Excursion

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

• Activities:

  • Start your tour with a visit to the unique Maeklong Railway Market, famously known as Talad Rom Hup or the “Umbrella Pulldown Market.” Witness the incredible sight of market stalls swiftly pulling back to make way for passing trains, only to reopen moments later. Explore this bustling fresh seafood market with insights from your guide.

  • Next, head to the iconic Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Enjoy a captivating paddle boat ride through the canals, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere where vendors sell goods directly from their traditional boats. Savor local specialties like mango sticky rice, guided by expert tips on what to try.

  • After these unforgettable market experiences, you'll return to Bangkok.

  • Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 18: Bangkok, Thailand: Ancient Ayutthaya & River Cruise

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

• Activities:

  • At 6:30 AM, depart Bangkok for Ayutthaya, the glorious ancient capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Stop to visit the magnificent Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a beautiful complex of royal residences showcasing diverse architectural styles.

  • Continue into Ayutthaya to explore significant temple ruins, including Wat Maha That (famous for its iconic Buddha head entwined within tree roots) and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the largest and most important temple of the former Royal Palace.

  • At 12:30 PM, embark on a scenic cruise, enjoying a delicious buffet lunch on board as you leisurely cruise back towards Bangkok.

  • Enjoy sightseeing from the boat on the way back to Bangkok city, observing life along the Chao Phraya River.

  • Overnight in Bangkok.

Day 19: Bangkok → Chiang Mai, Thailand: Capital Temples & Northern Flight

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

• Activities:

  • Morning: Visit famous temples in Bangkok including Wat Traimit (The Golden Buddha Temple), and Wat Pho (The Reclining Buddha Temple). The last one we visit is Wat Benchamabophit (The Marble Temple).

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  • ADD-ON (Optional, extra cost): Pay for your visit at The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew (Emerald Buddha Temple), a magnificent complex that served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand.

  • Afternoon: Transfer to Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) or Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) for your domestic flight to Chiang Mai.

  • Upon arrival at Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), we transfer you to your hotel. Check-in and spend your time at leisure.

  • Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 20: Chiang Mai, Thailand: Visit Doi Inthanon National Park

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

• Activities:

  • At 8:00 AM, we will be heading to Doi Inthanon National Park, which includes Thailand's tallest mountain.

  • We will explore the modern twin Chedis of the King and Queen, set amidst beautiful flower gardens with breathtaking panoramic views.

  • Then, proceed to a Karen hill tribe village, gaining insight into their unique culture and traditional way of life.

  • After enjoying lunch, we will visit the breathtaking Vachiritharn and Siritharn Waterfalls.

  • Later, we will head to the beautiful flower garden located at the Royal Project Research Station, showcasing diverse flora and sustainable agricultural initiatives.

  • Finally, we will return to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

  • Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 21: Chiang Mai, Thailand: Lampang Exploration & Elephant Sanctuary

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

• Activities:

  • At 7:00 AM, leave Chiang Mai for a day trip to Lampang.

  • Visit the Elephant Conservation Centre along the way & witness an ethical elephant show, learning about elephant welfare and conservation efforts.

  • Upon arrival in Lampang, visit Wat Prathat Lampang Luang, a magnificent and well-preserved ancient temple.

  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

  • Afternoon: Experience a charming Horse-cart ride through the old streets of Lampang and visit Kad Kong Ta Street Market, a local market known for traditional goods.

  • After that, visit Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, the most celebrated temple in Lamphun province, known for its golden chedi.

  • We will then return to Chiang Mai.

  • Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 22: Chiang Mai, Thailand: Golden Triangle & Hill Tribe Encounters

• Meals: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

• Activities:

  • At 7:00 AM, begin your journey further north. Stop to visit the relaxing Mae Khachan hot springs.

  • Continue to the stunning Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), a contemporary art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple.

  • Proceed to Chiang Saen, an ancient city, before reaching the famous Golden Triangle area of Northern Thailand, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge.

  • After lunch, visit Wat Phrathat Pukhao, offering panoramic views of the Golden Triangle.

  • You will then return to Chiang Mai. On the way back, stop to visit traditional Akha and Yao hill tribe villages, gaining insights into their distinct cultures and craftsmanship.

  • Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 23: Chiang Mai, Thailand: Departure

• Meals: Breakfast (B)

• Accommodation: None (Departure Day)

• Activities:

  • Morning: Breakfast at your hotel.

  • Spend your leisure time in Chiang Mai until we transfer you to Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) for your departure flight, concluding your incredible "Sensation of Southeast Asia" journey.

Add-On: Expand your trip in Phuket Island

• Optional Extension: Consider adding a flight to Phuket and spending some days at one of Thailand's most beautiful beach destinations. There are many interesting places in this island and surrounding islands for you to discover, including boat trips to Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island), Koh Phi Phi, and much more for relaxation and island adventures.