Embark on a journey of exploration through the heart of Southeast Asia with the perfect 2-week itinerary that spans the infamous gems of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This meticulously crafted adventure is your gateway to the rich tapestry of cultures, history, and natural wonders that define this captivating region. In just 14 days, you’ll uncover the treasures hidden within ancient temples, meander through bustling markets, savor diverse cuisines, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, and finally, the picturesque landscapes of Vietnam, this itinerary offers an unforgettable odyssey.
If you’re seeking a journey that combines the allure of these three unique countries, our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks promises to be your ideal travel companion. Join us on an adventure that will ignite your senses, broaden your horizons, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks trip – Ultimate itinerary
Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Southeast Asia, offer a treasure trove of experiences. While some travelers aspire to explore all their essential highlights over 3 weeks to a month, we understand that time and budget constraints may lead you to consider a more concise journey of just 2 weeks or even less. The good news is that this is entirely feasible! Below, we present the ideal Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks you’ve been searching for, crafted to ensure you don’t miss out on the region’s most captivating attractions.
Day 1: Hanoi
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Red River delta region, Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, harmoniously fuses old-world allure with a contemporary vibrancy. It serves as the perfect launch point for your Thailand Cambodia Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks. Despite its status as the nation’s capital, Hanoi exudes an unassuming and unhurried ambiance, making it an ideal choice for travelers in search of a more serene experience.
Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you’ll navigate the immigration procedures before transferring to your Hanoi hotel. In the charming embrace of Hanoi, you’ll find the ideal setting for an overnight stay, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey through this captivating city and beyond.
Day 2: Hanoi
Prepare for an exhilarating full-day adventure brimming with outdoor activities. Commence your journey with a visit to the remarkable Museum of Ethnology just outside Hanoi. From its exterior to its thoughtful layout and insightful content, this museum thoughtfully portrays the diversity of Vietnamese ethnic cultures. Over two immersive hours, delve into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese traditions. Your next destination is Hoa Lo Prison, colloquially known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” offering poignant insights into Vietnam’s history and its struggles.
Lunch today is an indulgence in Bún Chả, a delectable dish featuring vermicelli, grilled meats, pickled veggies, lettuce, and herbs. The unique charm of Bún Chả lies in its fish sauce, expertly seasoned with a dash of chili, a true treat in Vietnam’s culinary paradise. Afterwards, we’ll explore a Hidden Gem—a Vietnamese coffee shop with furniture ingeniously fashioned from recycled materials, emphasizing environmental protection. Savor a must-try Vietnamese egg coffee. A visit to Long Bien Bridge, the historic steel structure built by the French in Vietnam, awaits. Cross the century-old bridge to behold a panoramic river view and hear captivating stories about the Red River Delta’s culture and daily life. Discover the banana island beneath, a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Conclude your day with a charming cyclo ride, a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. Traverse the elegant French colonial architecture of the French Quarter, passing by historic sites such as the Vietnam History Museum and the Metropole Legend Hotel. The journey culminates with a tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter before returning to your hotel.
Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay
Bid adieu to Hanoi, traversing the fertile landscapes of the Red River Delta on a 3-hour drive (including a brief 20-minute stop) to reach the mythical Halong Bay. Arriving at the Halong City jetty around noon, you proceed with check-in formalities. Marvel at the iconic beauty of Halong Bay as thousands of limestone islands emerge from the emerald sea in otherworldly formations. The best way to soak in this must-see Vietnamese wonder is through an overnight boat journey.
Upon a warm onboard welcome, savor a delicious lunch while cruising through this legendary bay. In the mid-afternoon, engage in various activities to explore every nook and cranny, with each cruise offering its unique itinerary. Popular options include caving, kayaking, rowing boats, and swimming. As the day draws to a close, the cruise anchors for the night, nestled among the enchanting karst formations, with dinner served on board.
Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Da Nang/ Hoi An
Awaken early to witness the breathtaking sunrise at one of the world’s most beautiful locations. Embrace the dawn with a rejuvenating tai chi session on the sundeck, filling your day with newfound vitality. Following this gentle practice, relish a hot breakfast accompanied by aromatic coffee in the ship’s restaurant.
Cruise staff will announce and arrange some mellow activities on the bay, providing opportunities for participation. Alternatively, you can unwind on board, indulging in activities such as movie-watching, book-reading, or simply soaking in the scenic views. As the cruise leisurely heads back towards port, a sumptuous buffet brunch is served. Disembark and proceed to Noi Bai airport for a flight to Danang. On arrival, our local guide extends a warm welcome and escorts you on a 40-minute journey to Hoi An
Day 5: Hoi An
Spend the entire morning in relaxation. By 2:00 PM, embark on an informative orientation walk through the charming town of Hoi An. This guided tour provides a unique glimpse into the town’s history, allowing you to explore a well-preserved centuries-old private house, the Sa Huynh Museum showcasing Hoi An’s earliest heritage, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda, a symbol of the town.
The latter part of the morning is dedicated to a hands-on lantern-making experience. With the guidance of a skilled instructor, you’ll choose from a wide selection of vibrant silks, construct a bamboo frame, and craft your lantern. It’s a creative souvenir that conveniently fits into your luggage for your journey home. Dinner is at your discretion tonight, and we recommend reserving a romantic sunset dinner with Cinnamon Cruise to savor Hoi An’s most enchanting moments.
Day 6: Hoi An
Experience the charm of a Hoi An morning with a picturesque bicycle ride along the tranquil Thu Bon River. Meander through the idyllic countryside, witnessing local life against a backdrop of farmers tending to their water buffalo in lush fields. Pedal your way through serene palm forests, over bridges, and across quaint ponds, ultimately reaching Cam Thanh Village. Pause for a warm welcome at a local family’s home before embarking on a scenic one-hour boat ride in a traditional wooden vessel through the enchanting coconut palm forest. Learn the art of maneuvering the iconic basket boat, all while relaxing and trying your hand at catching fish and purple crabs in the serene canal.
Bid farewell to Cam Thanh Village and continue your cycling journey to another charming village. Explore the bountiful organic vegetable fields of Tra Que, where an array of produce is cultivated using environmentally sustainable methods passed down through generations. A visit to KumQuat restaurant offers an exciting cooking class led by Thành and his wife. Prepare traditional Hoi An dishes and relish a delightful self-prepared lunch. Cycle back to your hotel and unwind by the pool or on the sun-kissed beach, savoring the memories of your morning adventure.
Day 7: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
Following breakfast at the hotel, a short flight from Da Nang takes you to the bustling commercial center of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, home to a vibrant population of 10 million. Upon arrival, your dedicated guide and driver will escort you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an extraordinary underground network constructed by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the struggle for independence. This labyrinth of tunnels played a crucial role in the Viet Cong’s success against the Americans, enabling them to control a vast rural area around HCM City. Your experience includes an introductory video and a guided tour. Venture into the tunnels’ depths to gain a visceral understanding of the challenging life led by those within. An exhibition showcasing the traps and weapons used against American GIs provides a chilling perspective. Following the Cu Chi Tunnels visit, return to the city center for check-in.
Day 8: Mekong Delta
Experience the essence of Vietnam in the Mekong Delta, the nation’s rice bowl. As the mighty Mekong River flows toward the coast, it gracefully divides into an intricate network of tributaries, giving life to this fertile region. Start your day with an 8 a.m. hotel pickup in the bustling city. Journey to Ben Tre, where your adventure begins. At Ham Luong Pier, you’ll board a boat on the Ben Tre River, a Mekong tributary. Witness the vibrant river life, from fishing to water transfers.
Visit a brickwork to observe traditional brick-making techniques. Explore coconut processing workshops along the canal. Navigate narrow natural waterways, feeling their charm as they lead to a local village. Take a leisurely walk to a family workshop crafting sleep mats and savor local fruits and tea. Then, embark on a bicycle ride along shaded paths, passing lush rice fields and vegetable plantations to connect with the countryside’s authentic spirit. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, drift along the scenic Water Palm Creek in a rowboat, then return to Hung Vuong Pier. Disembark and drive through endless rice fields, heading back to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. This immersive journey unveils the beauty and traditions of the Mekong Delta, a quintessential Vietnamese experience.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City – Siem Reap
After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a morning tour in the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh. This dynamic metropolis is renowned for its splendid architectural diversity, reflecting Vietnam’s rich historical heritage. The cityscape seamlessly blends French colonial villas with modern steel and glass structures. As we explore, you’ll witness the architectural treasures that harken back to Saigon’s days as the “Pearl of Indochina,” the former capital of French Indochina. Our tour takes us to iconic sites, including the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, and the Reunification Palace. If time allows, we’ll also visit the Saigon Opera House and the city hall.
After a delightful lunch, we’ll make our way to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for a brief flight to Siem Reap, the next enchanting destination on your Indochina journey.
Day 10: Siem Reap
Begin your temple exploration in the tranquil dawn at Ta Prohm, among the most illustrious Small Circuit temples. The best time to visit is 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.
Alternatively, depending on the season and crowds, consider 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. Time and climate have eroded some of the carvings, but the temple’s ancient Khmer spirit endures.
In the afternoon, explore Angkor Wat, one of the world’s Seven Wonders, designed to replicate India’s grand Meru Mountain. The central tower, rising 65 meters, symbolizes Mount Meru, with its five towers mirroring the mountain’s peaks. Remarkably, the entire structure is assembled using honeycomb-like sandstone blocks, stacked without binders or reinforced concrete. Arrive just before sunset, a less crowded time, and witness Angkor Wat’s Apsaras bathed in a serene light. Following your tour, return to your hotel.
Day 11: Siem Reap
After a hearty breakfast, your journey from Siem Reap unfolds as you venture to the enigmatic site of Koh Ker. Hidden deep within the Cambodian forest for centuries, Koh Ker, like many of Cambodia’s historic gems, carries the mystique of time. Despite the ravages of war and nature, its surviving elements radiate the grandeur of an ancient empire.
Your full-day expedition commences with the first temple, Prasat Pram, featuring five towers adorned with enchanting tree roots. Nearby, Prasat Chin, or the Chinese temple, stands in a state of captivating decay, its laterite tower bared to the heavens. Continue to the sacred oil well of Andong Preng before concluding the morning session at the awe-inspiring Prasat Thom pyramid, a 37-meter-high structure surrounded by millennia-old brick temples and shrines.
Heading towards the eastern circuit, you’ll be greeted by the immense temple lingas, Prasat Krachap and Banteay Pichean, nestled in the forest’s embrace. Here, soaring eagles may grace the skies above. The journey then takes you south to the jungle temple of Beng Mealea, a hidden gem veiled by colossal walls and luxuriant greenery. Envision colossal trees sprouting from the ruins as you explore the temple’s interior. Remarkably, this temple predates Angkor Wat by 30 years, echoing its style and layout. Delve deep into this remarkable site, clambering over tumbled stones and scaling lofty walls. Upon the tour’s conclusion, your return to Siem Reap awaits.
Day 12: Siem Reap – Bangkok
After your flight to Bangkok, the vibrant “City of Angels,” you’ll seamlessly transfer to your hotel. While in Bangkok, don’t miss the optional Food Tour by Tuk Tuk. This city never stops eating, and locals often relish delicious dishes late into the night. To truly experience this culinary culture, hop on a lively Tuk Tuk ride and explore the best local eateries after sunset. Join us on the Food Tour by Tuk Tuk, an enticing journey that invites you to savor Bangkok’s flavors, making your visit truly unforgettable.
Day 13: Bangkok
Following breakfast at your hotel, your exploration of Bangkok unfolds. Commence at Wat Traimit, home to the world’s largest Golden Buddha statue, a remarkable 3-meter-high, 5.5-ton masterpiece, exquisitely carved from solid gold. Your journey continues to Wat Pho, where you’ll be captivated by the colossal reclining Buddha statue, symbolizing Buddha’s entry into Nirvana and the cessation of reincarnation. A mere 800 meters from Wat Pho, you’ll arrive at the resplendent Grand Palace, an iconic symbol of Bangkok and a must-visit destination.
Next, embark on a long-tail boat adventure along scenic canals, providing glimpses of traditional Thai homes and rural life. Your day concludes with a visit to the enchanting Temple of Dawn, as you immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of this vibrant city.
Day 14: Bangkok – Ayutthaya
Begin your day with a northward journey to Ayutthaya. Your first stop is Wat Phu Khao Thong, a remarkable monument dating back to 1387 in the Northwestern part of Ayutthaya. It was built by the second king of the Ayutthaya kingdom. When the Burmese conquered Ayutthaya in 1569, a Mon-style chedi was constructed atop the former temple to commemorate the victory.
Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park and the ancient palace grounds. Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, located adjacent to the Grand Palace, was a significant temple during the Ayutthaya period. Nearby, Viharn Phra Mongkolbopit houses an impressive seated bronze Buddha image. Following a delectable Thai lunch, proceed to Wat Lokaya Sutha to marvel at the 8-meter-high and 42-meter-long reclining Buddha of Ayutthaya, crafted from brick and covered with plaster. Your journey continues to Wat Mahathat, a classic temple ruin of Ayutthaya famous for the iconic Buddha head embraced by the Bodhi tree’s roots. The temple’s foundation and remaining plinths and towers bear witness to its historical importance. In the late afternoon, return to Bangkok, concluding your day’s adventure.
Day 15: Bangkok
Following a delightful last breakfast in Bangkok, you’ll have a leisurely morning to unwind and venture out on your own. Afterward , you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the conclusion of your Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks.
Final thoughts
Journey on a two-week journey through the remarkable countries of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam is an exhilarating endeavor. This trio of Southeast Asian gems beckons travelers with rich histories, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Our recommended Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam itinerary 2 weeks is a tantalizing taste of what this enchanting region has to offer.
However, for those who seek an even deeper, more immersive adventure, Viland Travel’s “Ultimate Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand 15-day tour” is the key to unlocking the full potential of your expedition. This carefully crafted tour promises to elevate your experience with local insights, hidden gems, and seamless travel. Explore the intricacies of these nations, from the dazzling temples of Angkor Wat to the lush Mekong Delta. Take your Southeast Asian journey from great to extraordinary with Viland Travel, where your dream itinerary becomes a reality.
