Embark on a transformative exploration across the heart of Southeast Asia with an expertly curated 3-week itinerary, spanning the renowned treasures of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
This thoughtfully designed adventure serves as your portal to the diverse tapestry of cultures, histories, and natural marvels that define this captivating region. Over 20 days, you’ll unveil the riches concealed within ancient temples, wander through vibrant markets, indulge in diverse cuisines, and immerse yourself in stunning landscapes. From the dynamic streets of Bangkok to the majestic Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, and finally, the scenic beauty of Vietnam, our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam Itinerary 3 weeks promises an unforgettable odyssey.
Join us on a journey that will ignite your senses, broaden your horizons, and leave you with indelible memories.
Discover Southeast Asia with ultimate Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks
Discover the enchanting landscapes of Southeast Asia as you delve into the rich tapestry of experiences that Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia have to offer. In the span of three weeks, our meticulously designed itinerary unveils the essential highlights of these captivating destinations, ensuring you don’t miss out on the region’s most mesmerizing attractions. Embark on a journey that will immerse you in the vibrant cultures, historical wonders, and natural beauty that define these three remarkable countries. Your ideal Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks awaits, promising a seamless exploration of the treasures nestled in this stunning corner of the world.
Day 1: Hanoi
Nestled in the heart of the scenic Red River delta region, Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, seamlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary vibrancy. It’s the perfect starting point for your Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks. Despite being the national capital, Hanoi exudes a calm and unhurried ambiance, making it ideal for travelers seeking a serene experience.
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, navigate immigration procedures before transferring to your Hanoi hotel. In this charming city, your overnight stay marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey.
Day 2: Hanoi
Get ready for a thrilling full-day adventure filled with outdoor activities. Begin with a visit to the remarkable Museum of Ethnology just outside Hanoi, showcasing the diversity of Vietnamese ethnic cultures. Delve into the rich tapestry of traditions over two immersive hours. Next, explore Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” offering poignant insights into Vietnam’s history.
Lunch is a treat with Bun Cha, a delightful dish featuring vermicelli, grilled meats, pickled veggies, and herbs. The unique charm lies in its fish sauce, seasoned expertly with chili—a treat in Vietnam’s culinary paradise. Explore a Hidden Gem—a Vietnamese coffee shop with furniture made from recycled materials, emphasizing environmental protection. Enjoy a must-try Vietnamese egg coffee. Visit Long Bien Bridge, a historic French-built steel structure, for a panoramic river view and stories about daily life in the Red River Delta. Discover the banana island beneath, a unique experience for nature enthusiasts.
End your day with a charming cyclo ride, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. Traverse the elegant French colonial architecture of the French Quarter, passing historic sites like the Vietnam History Museum and the Metropole Legend Hotel. The journey concludes with a tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter before returning to your hotel.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay
Say farewell to Hanoi as you venture through the lush landscapes of the Red River Delta on a 3-hour drive, including a short 20-minute stop, to reach the legendary Halong Bay. Upon arriving at the Halong City jetty around noon, complete your check-in and prepare to be enchanted by the iconic beauty of Halong Bay, where thousands of limestone islands emerge from the emerald sea in mesmerizing formations. To truly absorb the magic of this Vietnamese wonder, embark on an overnight boat journey.
After a warm onboard welcome, relish a delightful lunch while cruising through the bay. In the mid-afternoon, partake in various activities like caving, kayaking, rowing boats, and swimming. As the day concludes, the cruise anchors among the enchanting karst formations for the night, with dinner served onboard.
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Da Nang/ Hoi An
Wake up early to witness the breathtaking sunrise in one of the world’s most beautiful locations. Begin your day with a rejuvenating tai chi session on the sundeck, followed by a hot breakfast in the ship’s restaurant.
Engage in some mellow bay activities organized by the cruise staff or simply unwind on board, enjoying activities like movie-watching or reading. As the cruise leisurely returns to port, a sumptuous buffet brunch is served. Disembark and head to Noi Bai airport for a flight to Danang. Upon arrival, our local guide welcomes you and escorts you on a 40-minute journey to Hoi An.
Day 5: Hoi An
Spend the morning in leisure before a 2:00 PM orientation walk through the captivating town of Hoi An. This guided tour provides insight into the town’s history, exploring a well-preserved centuries-old private house, the Sa Huynh Museum, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda.
The latter part of the morning features a hands-on lantern-making experience. With the guidance of a skilled instructor, choose vibrant silks, construct a bamboo frame, and craft your lantern—a creative souvenir for your journey home. Dinner is at your discretion, and we recommend a romantic sunset dinner with Cinnamon Cruise to savor Hoi An’s enchanting moments.
Day 6: Hoi An
Embrace the enchanting allure of Hoi An with a morning bicycle excursion along the serene Thu Bon River. Traverse picturesque countryside scenes where farmers tend to water buffalo in lush fields. Pedal through palm forests, over quaint bridges, and past tranquil ponds until reaching Cam Thanh Village. Enjoy a warm welcome at a local family’s home before embarking on a scenic one-hour boat ride through the captivating water coconut palm forest in a traditional wooden vessel. Learn the art of maneuvering the iconic basket boat, try your hand at fishing, and savor the peaceful canal ambiance.
Bid farewell to Cam Thanh Village and cycle to another charming village. Explore the organic vegetable fields of Tra Que, where sustainable cultivation methods have been passed down through generations. KumQuat restaurant offers an exciting cooking class led by Thành and his wife, allowing you to prepare and enjoy a delightful lunch. Cycle back to your hotel, basking in the memories of your morning adventure
Day 7: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, a short flight from Da Nang takes you to Ho Chi Minh City. Your guide and driver will lead you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network crucial during the struggle for independence. Explore the tunnels’ depths, gaining insight into the challenging life within. A chilling exhibition showcases traps and weapons used against American GIs. Return to the city center for check-in.
Day 8: Mekong Delta
Discover the heart of Vietnam in the Mekong Delta, starting with a boat ride on the Ben Tre River. Witness river life, visit a brickwork, explore coconut processing workshops, and stroll through a local village. Enjoy a bicycle ride through lush fields and plantations, followed by a rowboat journey along Water Palm Creek. Indulge in a local restaurant for lunch. This immersive experience unveils the Mekong Delta’s beauty and traditions.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Reap
Explore the architectural wonders of Ho Chi Minh City, from French colonial villas to modern structures. Visit iconic sites like the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral. After lunch, fly to Siem Reap for the next enchanting chapter of your Indochina journey.
Day 10: Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat
Embark on a captivating journey into the world of Angkor Wat! Begin your temple exploration at the iconic Ta Prohm or the enchanting Preah Khan temple. Traverse the ancient city of Angkor Thom, where the grandeur of Bayon Temple and the exquisite carvings of the nearby Terraces await. After a delightful lunch, venture into Angkor Wat, one of the world’s Seven Wonders, meticulously designed to replicate India’s majestic Meru Mountain. The central tower, soaring 65 meters, symbolizes Mount Meru, with its five towers mirroring the peaks of the mountain. Witness Angkor Wat’s Apsaras bathed in serene light during the less crowded sunset, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Day 11: Banteay Srei – Kbal Spean – ACCB
Explore the serene countryside, starting with the captivating Banteay Srei temple, renowned for its elegant pink sandstone and intricate bas-reliefs. Continue your adventure with a rejuvenating forest hike to Kbal Spean, home to the “River of 1000 Lingas” adorned with ancient Hindu carvings amid natural splendor. After a delectable lunch, visit the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB), committed to preserving wildlife and the environment. Engage with local communities, witnessing the craft of rice paper making and relishing regional delights. The Cambodian Land Mine Museum offers a humbling experience of resilience. Immerse yourself in Cambodia’s countryside, leaving with cherished memories of this transformative journey.
Day 12: Siem Reap
Embark on a temple exploration at the tranquil dawn of Ta Prohm, among the most illustrious Small Circuit temples. The best time to visit is at 7:30 a.m., right as the temple gates open. Ta Prohm, constructed from the mid-12th to the early 13th centuries, stands uniquely shrouded by the encroaching jungle. This picturesque Angkor temple, with sections crumbled to the ground, captures the essence of ancient wonder.
Depending on the season and crowds, consider a visit to the Preah Khan temple. Built in a similar style by the same king, this expansive temple complex has succumbed to time and remains relatively unknown, promising an intimate experience. Proceed to Angkor Thom, the ancient city enclosed by an 8-meter-high wall; enter through its elaborate gate adorned with three-headed elephants and Buddha’s giant faces. The causeway over the moat is guarded by a row of 54 gods and demons, each clutching a sacred Naga snake. Your journey leads to Bayon Temple, the heart of Angkor Thom, known for its curious feature: nearly 200 enigmatic smiling faces etched into its walls. Though time and climate have eroded some carvings, the ancient Khmer spirit of the temple endures. After your immersive tour, return to your hotel.
Day 13: Siem Reap
Embark on a captivating journey from Siem Reap after a satisfying breakfast, unveiling the secrets of Koh Ker, a hidden Cambodian treasure nestled in the heart of the forest. As you explore the first temple, Prasat Pram, its five towers adorned with enchanting tree roots offer a mesmerizing spectacle. Discover the captivating decay of Prasat Chin, the Chinese temple, and visit the sacred oil well of Andong Preng. The morning crescendos at the awe-inspiring Prasat Thom pyramid, surrounded by ancient brick temples. Moving to the eastern circuit, encounter the grand temple lingas of Prasat Krachap and Banteay Pichean, with the possibility of witnessing soaring eagles above. The journey south leads to Beng Mealea, a jungle temple veiled by colossal walls and vibrant greenery. Explore its interior, marveling at colossal trees sprouting from the ruins. This hidden gem predates Angkor Wat, echoing its style. Conclude your remarkable adventure, returning to Siem Reap with the echoes of ancient mysteries lingering.
Day 14: Siem Reap – Bangkok
Upon landing in Bangkok, the dynamic “City of Angels,” your transition to the hotel is seamless. While in Bangkok, indulge in the optional Food Tour by Tuk Tuk. In a city that never stops eating, locals savor delectable dishes late into the night. To immerse yourself in this culinary tapestry, climb aboard a lively Tuk Tuk after sunset. The Food Tour by Tuk Tuk beckons, offering an enticing journey through the flavors of Bangkok, ensuring your visit is an unforgettable exploration of the city’s gastronomic delights.
Day 15: Bangkok
Following breakfast at your hotel, begin your day in Bangkok by delving into the city’s treasures. Begin at Wat Traimit, housing the colossal Golden Buddha, a 3-meter-high, 5.5-ton masterpiece carved from solid gold. Move on to Wat Pho, where the immense reclining Buddha signifies entry into Nirvana. A short walk away stands the iconic Grand Palace, an essential Bangkok landmark.
Embark on a long-tail boat adventure along picturesque canals, glimpsing traditional Thai homes and rural life. Your day culminates at the Temple of Dawn, offering a cultural immersion in this vibrant city. This Viland Travel experience ensures a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and the rich heritage of Bangkok.
Day 16: Bangkok – Ayutthaya
Start your day with a northbound expedition to Ayutthaya. The initial halt is at Wat Phu Khao Thong, a captivating monument dating back to 1387 in the northwestern part of Ayutthaya. Erected by the second king of the Ayutthaya kingdom, it gained a Mon-style chedi after the Burmese conquest in 1569 to commemorate the victory.
Embark on an exploration of the Ayutthaya Historical Park and the ancient palace grounds. Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, situated adjacent to the Grand Palace, was a pivotal temple in the Ayutthaya era. Adjacent, Viharn Phra Mongkolbopit shelters an imposing seated bronze Buddha image. Following a flavorsome Thai lunch, proceed to Wat Lokaya Sutha to marvel at the 8-meter-high, 42-meter-long reclining Buddha of Ayutthaya, crafted from brick and covered with plaster. Your journey unfolds at Wat Mahathat, a poignant Ayutthaya temple ruin famed for the Buddha head entwined in the roots of a Bodhi tree. The temple’s foundations, plinths, and towers echo its historical significance. In the late afternoon, return to Bangkok, concluding a day rich in historical exploration.
Day 17: Bangkok – Phuket
Commence the day with a hearty hotel breakfast, complete your check-out, and proceed to Bangkok airport for a brief flight to enchanting Phuket. Nestled in Thailand’s southwest, embraced by the glistening Andaman Sea, Phuket awaits. The rest of the day is yours to revel in. As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket captivates with limestone karst islets encircling pristine beaches. Known as the “Pearl of the South,” it’s a haven of natural wonders, vibrant resorts, and coastal villages. Dive into a realm of leisure, sports, and cultural riches, as Phuket unfolds its diverse tapestry for an unforgettable escape.
Day 18: Phuket
Embark on an immersive adventure where you connect with our rescued elephants, delving into their intricate communication methods and understanding their crucial role as keystone species. Joint roundtrip transfers, a light breakfast, vegetarian lunch and dinner buffets, and refreshing drinks are all part of the experience. Your day begins with insights into Asian elephants’ history and challenges, followed by feeding one for breakfast. Guided by our expert, explore the sanctuary to witness these majestic creatures in their natural sanctuary. A sumptuous vegetarian Thai lunch awaits. Afternoon activities include understanding the elephants’ role in the ecosystem and observing their hydrotherapy session. Cap off your day by preparing elephant food and joining them for dinner, followed by your own satisfying vegetarian meal.
Day 19: Phuket – Koh Phi Phi
Embark on a new day with an early pick-up around 5:00–5:15, starting your adventure at the Royal Phuket Marina. Following check-in, relish a complimentary breakfast before boarding a premium speedboat bound for the famous Maya Bay from the iconic movie, THE BEACH. The early departure ensures a crowd-free experience on the pristine beach, characterized by soft white sand, crystalline waters, verdant mountains, and a serene ambiance. Capture stunning moments at Loh Samah Bay’s viewpoint behind Maya Bay.
Explore Pileh Lagoon, an emerald gem surrounded by limestone mountains, and marvel at Viking Cave and Monkey Cliff. Enjoy a late-morning snorkeling session, immersing yourself in the vibrant coral reef teeming with marine life. A delectable lunch, offering Thai and Western cuisine, awaits at the Private Beach Restaurant. Post-lunch, head to Bamboo Island for more relaxation and snorkeling. The tour concludes at the Royal Phuket Marina by 15:00, followed by a comfortable return to your hotel. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Phuket at your own pace.
Day 20: Phuket
Indulge in a blissful day on the enchanting island of Phuket. Lounge on its pristine beaches, or delve into the vibrant marine life through snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters filled with vibrant coral reefs and tropical creatures. Opt for a boat or catamaran charter to navigate the idyllic islands of the Andaman Sea, creating memories to last a lifetime. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the historical charm of Phuket Town, discovering its cultural gems. With a plethora of choices, your day unfolds with endless possibilities and captivating distractions, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience in this tropical paradise.
Following your relaxing time here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the conclusion of your Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks.
Final thoughts
Embark on a thrilling three-week odyssey through the captivating landscapes of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where rich histories and vibrant cultures unfold. Our suggested Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks provides a captivating glimpse into the wonders of this enchanting region.
Yet, for those craving a more profound and immersive adventure, Viland Travel’s personalized multi-country tours unlock the full potential of your expedition. This meticulously designed tour promises to enhance your experience with local insights, hidden treasures, and seamless travel. Uncover the nuances of these nations, from the resplendent temples of Angkor Wat to the verdant Mekong Delta.
Transform your Southeast Asian journey from great to extraordinary with Viland Travel, where your dream itinerary becomes a tangible reality!
