16 Day Best of Vietnam, Cambodia I Mekong Cruise & Angkor Temples

Day 1: Welcome to Vietnam - Hanoi Arrival - Hanoi Sunset Tour by Jeep

1. Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam
   2h · Admission ticket included
   In the morning / afternoon (depending on your flight)
   
   Arrive in Hanoi and meet your guide at the airport for a transfer to your hotel.
   
   Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to rest after the flight or explore the nearby area.
   Hanoi city streets are full of local cafés, small shops, and traditional neighborhoods that reflect daily Vietnamese life.
   In the evening
   
   Transfer to a countryside restaurant for a special welcome dinner.
   Countryside dining experience offers authentic Vietnamese flavors in a peaceful setting, making a memorable first night of the journey.
2. 4h · Admission ticket included
   Choose from three flexible tour options to explore Hanoi:
   
   Afternoon tour (12:30 – 17:00) – Lunch served at the beginning
   Sunset & night tour (17:00 – 21:30) – Ends with dinner
   Discover hidden backstreets, narrow alleyways, local homes, schools, and bustling markets, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life. Visit key landmarks such as:
   
   Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
   Tran Vu Temple (one of the oldest temples in the city)
   Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful symbol of Hanoi
   Hanoi Opera House, showcasing French colonial architecture Long Bien Bridge, a historic structure with cultural significance
   Venture beyond the city center to explore rural outskirts and village life
   Enjoy a unique Jeep ride experience, covering Hanoi’s history, culture, and vibrant food scene
   Overnight in Hanoi Old Town.

Day 2: Ninh Binh Exploration

1. Hoa Lu Temples of the Dinh & le Dynasties
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Today, Travel by air-conditioned bus from Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
   
   Visit Dinh king Temple and Le king Temple from the 10th century, and hear about the heroic histories of the two Kings during the Chinese Wars. At midday, sit down for lunch with Vietnamese cuisine at a local restaurant.
2. Tam Cốc-Bich Dộng
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Continue to Tam Coc and take the sampan go (traditional river boat) along the Ngo Dong river to visit Tam Coc's three caves. Head back to Tam Coc wharf, take your bicycle, and cycle around traditional villages and Tam Coc town.
3. Mua Caves
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Visit Mua cave, which attracts visitors with its many interesting stories. Climb 500 stone steps to see all the way to Tam Coc, and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the countryside and Ngo Dong river.
   In the evening, return Ha Noi.

Day 3: Ninh Binh Culture & Nature Discovery

1. Thai Vi Temple
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Morning (08:30):
   Meet your guide and depart to explore Ninh Binh
   Visit Thai Vi Temple – a sacred site dedicated to the kings and generals of the Tran Dynasty, reflecting Vietnam’s rich imperial history
2. Bich Dong Pagoda
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Continue to Bich Dong Pagoda – a unique three-level pagoda built into the mountainside, offering both spiritual significance and scenic views
   Midday:
   
   Enjoy a local specialty lunch
3. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Afternoon:
   Discover Thung Nham Bird Valley – a peaceful ecological area rich in biodiversity
   Take a sampan boat ride through Hang But Cave – admire natural rock formations and tranquil waterways
   Experience bird watching – observe thousands of birds returning to their natural habitat
4. Ninh Binh
   1h
   Late Afternoon / Evening:
   Return to your hotel to collect your luggage
   Transfer back to your hotel/homestay in Ninh Binh to pepare the next adventure tomorrow.

Day 4: Ninh Binh - Travel to Halong Bay

1. Ninh Binh
   3h
   In the morning, After your breakfast at the hotel. The driver pick up to transfer to Halong Bay - Tuan Chau Island
2. Tuan Chau Island
   2h
   After 2,5 hour driving to transfer by car to Ha Long Bay, passing through the Red River Delta with vast rice fields. Arrival Tuan Chau Island to check in the cruise
3. Lan Ha Bay
   12h · Admission ticket included
   Morning: After breakfast, depart Ninh Binh on a scenic 2.5-hour drive along the coastal highway toward Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic limestone karsts
   Upon arrival, board your overnight cruise and enjoy a welcome experience while taking in the stunning views of emerald waters and towering rock formations
   As the cruise begins sailing toward quieter areas of the bay, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch onboard
   Afternoon: Experience kayaking through spectacular limestone formations, offering a closer look at the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Halong Bay
   Return to the cruise for relaxation activities on deck while admiring the changing light over the bay
   Evening: Enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the karst landscape before dinner is served onboard
   Overnight on the cruise.

Day 5: Halong Bay - Travel back Hanoi

1. Halong Bay
   4h · Admission ticket included
   Early Morning:
   
   Wake up early to enjoy the sunrise over Halong Bay, a peaceful and unforgettable moment
   Join a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck, surrounded by stunning limestone scenery
   Morning:
   
   Enjoy breakfast in the dining room while the cruise continues through the bay
   Visit a beautiful limestone cave, featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years
   Late Morning:
   
   Return to the cruise for check-out
   Enjoy a relaxing brunch onboard as the boat sails back to the harbor
2. Hanoi Old Quarter Vietnam
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Afternoon:
   
   Disembark and meet your driver for the transfer back to Hanoi
   Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to rest or explore the city

Day 6: Hanoi - Travel to Hoi An - Hoi An Foodie Tour

1. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Relish the remaining moment in Hanoi before your private driver escorts you to Noi Bai airport to take the flight to Da Nang.
   *** Special Note: All other flights are not included. Please kindly contact us directly to get a quote.
   ** The cost of internal airfares is paid separately upon arrival to Vietnam Asia Travel as a local payment. The airfare fees are separated from the main tour cost because the prices of internal airfare can vary based on a number of factors, such as travel period, availability of flights, and fuel taxes. We keep it as a local payment to benefit our travelers by keeping tour costs lower and providing more flexibility during the booking process, and ensuring that travelers have a smooth and stress-free experience while on their trip.
2. 2h · Admission ticket included
   When you arrive at Da Nang Airport, Our personnel will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in the charm of Hoi An Ancient Town. The rest of the time is free at leisure.
3. Hoi An Ancient Town
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Enjoy an evening in Hoi An exploring hidden gems and local flavors. Visit a nearby farming village to experience daily life, then return to town for a street food journey featuring dishes like white rose dumplings, banh beo, my quang, pancakes, BBQ pork rolls, and banh mi. End with Vietnamese coffee before exploring Hoi An by night or returning to your hotel.

Day 7: Hoi An City Tour – Lantern Making Workshop - Evening Memory Show

1. Hoi An Ancient Town
   3h · Admission ticket included
   In the morning, begin your exploration of Hoi An Ancient Town, discovering its most iconic cultural landmarks.
   
   Japanese Covered Bridge
   → A symbol of Hoi An, this beautiful 400-year-old bridge features unique Japanese architecture and historic charm.
   Tan Ky Old House
   → A well-preserved merchant house showcasing a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese design from centuries ago.
   Phuc Kien Assembly Hall
   → A colorful Chinese-style hall famous for its ornate gates, dragon statues, and spiritual atmosphere.
2. Hoi An Market
   3h · Admission ticket included
   Late in the morning, stroll through the lively Hoi An Central Market.
   
   Hoi An Central Market
   → A vibrant local market filled with fresh produce, spices, street food, and handmade souvenirs.
   In the afternoon, visit a family-run lantern workshop to join a hands-on lantern-making class.
   
   Lantern Making Workshop
   → Guided by a local artisan, you will create your own traditional lantern and learn about this signature craft of Hoi An.
   During the workshop, enjoy green tea and local sweets, adding a relaxing cultural touch to the experience.
3. Hoi An Memories Land
   3h · Admission ticket included
   This evening, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show. Your tickets will be provided, allowing you to spend a romantic evening at your leisure while experiencing this captivating performance.

Day 8: Hoi An - Travel to Ho Chi Minh

1. 3h · Admission ticket included
   Relish the remaining moment in Da Nang before your private driver escorts you to the airport to take the flight to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
   *** Special Note: All other flights are not included. Please kindly contact us directly to get a quote.
   ** The cost of internal airfares is paid separately upon arrival to Vietnam Asia Travel as a local payment. The airfare fees are separated from the main tour cost because the prices of internal airfare can vary based on a number of factors, such as travel period, availability of flights, and fuel taxes. We keep it as a local payment to benefit our travelers by keeping tour costs lower and providing more flexibility during the booking process, and ensuring that travelers have a smooth and stress-free experience while on their trip.
2. 2h · Admission ticket included
   When you arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport, The driver will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in Ho Chi Minh CIty. The rest of the time is free at leisure.

Day 9: Saigon City Highlights

1. Reunification Palace. Hcmc. Vietnam
   1h · Admission ticket included
   At 8:00 AM, your half-day city tour begins in Ho Chi Minh City with a visit to the historic Reunification Palace, an impressive structure rich in Vietnam War history.
2. Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
   1h · Admission ticket included
   You then continue to the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the nearby Saigon Central Post Office, both remarkable examples of French colonial architecture with elegant neoclassical design.
3. War Remnants Museum
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Late in the morning, you visit the powerful War Remnants Museum, where exhibitions of photographs, documents, and historical artifacts provide a profound insight into the impact of the war on Vietnam.
   
   By early afternoon, you return to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, with the remainder of the day free for relaxation or personal exploration.

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta - Can Tho

1. Ho Chi Minh City
   2h
   In the morning at 08:00
   
   Depart from Ho Chi Minh City toward the Mekong Delta
   Arrive in Cai Be after around 2 hours
2. Cai Be
   2h
   Cai Be is a peaceful riverside town famous for its floating markets, local workshops, and authentic Delta lifestyle.
   
   Late in the morning
   
   Take a sampan boat ride along the river to observe daily life on the water
   Sampan boat ride is a classic Mekong experience, offering close-up views of stilt houses, boats, and local trading activities.
   
   Visit a local family factory
   Watch how coconut candy, rice paper, and pop rice are made
   Enjoy tastings of fresh handmade snacks
   Local family workshops showcase traditional Mekong craftsmanship and homemade specialties passed down through generations.
3. Tan Phong
   2h
   At midday
   
   Continue by longtail boat through mangrove-lined canals to Tan Phong Island
   Tan Phong Island is known for lush fruit orchards, quiet village paths, and relaxing countryside scenery.
   
   Enjoy a Don Ca Tai Tu performance
   Don Ca Tai Tu is a traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music style recognized for its emotional melodies and cultural value.
   
   Have lunch featuring local dishes such as deep-fried elephant-ear fish
   Elephant-ear fish is a signature Mekong specialty, crispy on the outside and often served with rice paper and herbs.
4. Can Tho
   2h
   In the afternoon
   
   Transfer to Can Tho
   Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta, famous for its riverside promenade and floating market culture.
   
   In the evening
   
   Free time to explore the city on your own
   Overnight in Can Tho

Day 11: Can Tho - Cai Rang Floating Markets - Chau Doc

1. Can Tho
   2h
   At 07:00 in the morning
   
   Wake up early and head to Cai Rang Floating Market to experience it at dawn, the most lively time of day.
   Cai Rang Floating Market is the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta, famous for its busy boat-to-boat trading and colorful river atmosphere.
2. Cai Rang Floating Market
   4h · Admission ticket included
   In the early morning
   
   Observe authentic local trading life on the water, with dozens of boats selling fruits, vegetables, and daily goods.
   Mekong river trading culture is a unique tradition where sellers display products on tall bamboo poles for buyers to easily spot.
   In the morning
   
   Visit a floating rice noodle workshop to see how traditional noodles are made.
   Rice noodle making is a signature Mekong craft, using fresh rice flour and handmade techniques passed down through generations.
   Late in the morning
   
   Enjoy fresh tropical fruits served directly from local boats.
   Mekong fruits are famous for their sweetness and freshness, including pineapple, mango, pomelo, and rambutan.
   At midday
   
   Have lunch at a local restaurant before continuing the journey.
3. Chau Doc
   2h
   In the afternoon
   
   Travel by road on a scenic transfer to Chau Doc, a peaceful border town near Cambodia—an important stop in the 21 Day Southeast Asia Tour Package.
   Chau Doc is known for its riverside charm, multicultural communities, and beautiful natural surroundings.
4. 2h · Admission ticket included
   In the late afternoon
   
   Explore the stunning Tra Su Cajuput Forest by motorboat and sampan.
   Tra Su Cajuput Forest is a famous wetland sanctuary covered in green duckweed, home to mangroves, lotus fields, and diverse birdlife.
   In the evening
   
   Check in and relax in Chau Doc after a full day of exploration.

Day 12: Chau Doc - Travel to Phnom Penh by Speed Boat

1. Chau Doc
   4h
   In the morning, enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Chau Doc, then pack up and check out.
   
   Chau Doc
   → A peaceful Mekong border town known for floating villages, river culture, and its unique mix of Vietnamese and Khmer influences.
   Late in the morning, transfer to the boat station and begin a 5-hour speedboat journey to Phnom Penh.
   
   Speedboat ride to Cambodia
   → A scenic trip along the Mekong River, offering views of riverside life and rural landscapes as you cross the border.
2. Phnom Penh
   2h
   In the afternoon, arrive at the port in Phnom Penh, where a local driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
   
   Phnom Penh
   → Cambodia’s capital city, famous for its royal heritage, French colonial architecture, and vibrant riverside atmosphere.
   In the late afternoon, enjoy free time to rest or explore the city on your own if you wish.

Day 13: Phnom Penh City Highlights

1. Independence Monument
   1h · Admission ticket included
   In the morningIn the morning at 08:00
   
   Start your day with a drive along the Phnom Penh Riverfront
   Stop for photos at the Independence Monument
   Independence Monument is a symbolic landmark celebrating Cambodia’s independence, especially beautiful for photos with its Khmer-style lotus design.
   
   Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to the bus station.
   Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s vibrant capital, known for its riverside atmosphere, colonial architecture, and cultural heritage.
   Late in the morning / early afternoon
   
   Begin the 6-hour bus journey to Siem Reap, traveling through Cambodia’s countryside landscapes.
   Cambodian countryside views feature rice fields, small villages, and local daily life along the road.
2. Siem Reap
   1h
   In the afternoon
   
   Arrive at Borei Seang Nam Station, where your tour guide will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.
   Borei Seang Nam Station is one of the main arrival points in Siem Reap, convenient for travelers heading to the temple area.
   In the evening
   
   Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to rest after the long journey.
   Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor, famous for its lively night markets, cultural shows, and world-renowned ancient temples.
3. Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
   2h · Admission ticket included
   Late in the morning
   
   Visit Choeung Ek (Killing Fields)
   Choeung Ek is a powerful memorial site that preserves Cambodia’s tragic history during the Khmer Rouge period.
   
   Continue to Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21 Prison)
   Tuol Sleng Museum was once a school turned into a prison, now displaying haunting exhibits and stories of Cambodia’s past.
4. Russian Market
   1h · Admission ticket included
   At midday
   
   Explore the Russian Market for shopping
   Russian Market is a lively local market known for souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, and street food stalls.
5. Royal Palace
   2h · Admission ticket included
   In the afternoon
   Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
   Royal Palace is one of Phnom Penh’s most impressive sites, showcasing traditional Khmer architecture and royal heritage.
   Silver Pagoda is famous for its floor made of 5,000 silver tiles and sacred Buddha statues.
   Continue to the National Museum
   National Museum holds Cambodia’s finest collection of ancient sculptures and Khmer art masterpieces.
   Visit Wat Phnom
   Wat Phnom is the city’s spiritual landmark, known for its legendary founding story and peaceful hilltop setting.
   Around 17:30 in the late afternoon. Return to your hotel for rest
   Phnom Penh is truly one of the 16-Day best places to visit in Southeast Asia, offering a deep mix of history, culture, and royal heritage.

Day 14: Phnom Penh - Travel to Siem Reap by Bus

1. Phnom Penh
   1h
   In the morning
   Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to the bus station.
   Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s vibrant capital, known for its riverside atmosphere, colonial architecture, and cultural heritage.
   Late in the morning / early afternoon
   Begin the 6-hour bus journey to Siem Reap, traveling through Cambodia’s countryside landscapes.
   Cambodian countryside views feature rice fields, small villages, and local daily life along the road.
2. Siem Reap
   5h
   In the afternoon
   Arrive at Borei Seang Nam Station, where your tour guide will meet you and transfer you to the hotel.
   Borei Seang Nam Station is one of the main arrival points in Siem Reap, convenient for travelers heading to the temple area.
   Check in at your hotel and enjoy free time to rest after the long journey.
   Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor, famous for its lively night markets, cultural shows, and world-renowned ancient temples.

Day 15: Siem Reap Angkor Temples - Aspara Dance Performance Show

1. Angkor Wat
   3h · Admission ticket included
   8h00Am. In the morning, after breakfast, begin a full-day discovery of the legendary Angkor Temple Complex.
   
   Angkor Wat
   → Cambodia’s most iconic temple, surrounded by an ancient moat and famous for its grand towers, detailed carvings, and impressive scale.
   Walk through Angkor Thom
   → The ancient walled city of the Khmer Empire, showcasing monumental gates and royal structures from Cambodia’s golden age.
   Visit Bayon Temple
   → Known for its mysterious stone towers carved with smiling faces, creating one of the most unforgettable sights in Angkor.
   At midday, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
2. Ta Prohm Temple
   2h · Admission ticket included
   In the afternoon, continue exploring:
   
   Ta Prohm Temple
   → A jungle-covered temple where massive tree roots wrap around ruins, creating a dramatic mix of nature and history.
3. Preah Khan Temple
   1h · Admission ticket included
   Preah Khan Temple
   → A large temple complex filled with long corridors and intricate stone carvings, once used as a religious and educational center.
4. Apsara Dance
   2h · Admission ticket included
   In the evening, enjoy dinner at a Khmer restaurant with a traditional performance.
   
   Apsara Dance Show
   → A graceful royal dance performance featuring elegant costumes and movements inspired by ancient Khmer culture.

Day 16: Time to say goodbye - Siem Reap Departure

1. Siem Reap Angkor International Airport
   3h · Admission ticket included
   In the morning, enjoy a healthy breakfast as you savor the final moments of your journey through Vietnam and Cambodia.
   
   After breakfast, complete your hotel check-out and, if time permits, explore local markets to pick up meaningful souvenirs for your loved ones.
   
   Later, your private driver will transfer you to the airport in Hanoi for your departure flight home, marking the end of a memorable adventure.

Pickup details

We will pick up all travelers following your requirements

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels