Vietnam and Cambodia Exploration with Luxury Beach Holidays 3 weeks

Your Vietnam and Cambodia exploration begins as your plane touches down at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. Your private driver will transport you through the bustling streets to your hotel in the city's heart.

Once at your hotel, check in, take some time to rest and refresh before a full day of exploration tomorrow.

Morning

Your day of cultural discovery begins as a private guide meets you at your hotel in the Old Quarter at 08:00.

The morning exploration starts at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university established in 1070. You might feel transported back in time while walking through courtyards with ancient stone stelae honoring scholars. The peaceful gardens and traditional architecture starkly contrast Hanoi's bustling streets.

Next, you will visit the One Pillar Pagoda, an important symbol of Hanoi standing on a single stone pillar. Nearby stands the imposing Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where you can learn about the revered leader's life through his preserved stilt house. The guide may share stories about Uncle Ho's simple lifestyle and profound impact on Vietnamese history.

NOTE: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museums is closed on Monday and Friday

The morning ends with a delicious lunch featuring authentic local dishes.

Afternoon

The afternoon takes you to the fascinating Museum of Ethnology dedicated to Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. You will discover traditional homes reconstructed outdoors and colorful displays of tribal costumes. The extensive collection offers insights into diverse cultural practices across the country.

Around 16:30, your driver will return you to your hotel in the Old Quarter.

Morning

On the third day, your journey begins with a morning pickup from your Old Quarter hotel between 07:30 and 08:00. The comfortable shuttle bus will transport you through changing landscapes as urban scenes gradually give way to rural vistas. You might want to keep your camera ready to capture scenes of farmers working in fields and water buffaloes lounging in muddy ponds.

Your first destination will be the captivating Tam Coc area, often called "Halong Bay on land" for its limestone karst formations. For around two hours, local rowers will lead you in traditional bamboo boats along the meandering Ngo Dong River. The boat ride may seem enchanted as you pass emerald rice terraces surrounded by tall limestone cliffs and three natural caverns.

After enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit Hoa Lu, Vietnam's ancient capital during the 10th century.

Afternoon

You will explore the ornate temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le with their intricate wood and stone carvings dating back to the 17th century. The historical significance comes alive as you learn about Vietnam's first feudal dynasties. Around 18:00, you will reach the hotel for an evening of relaxation.

Morning

As you are ready to leave the limestone scenery of Ninh Binh behind, the adventure goes on. Your shuttle bus will pick you up from your accommodation for the stunning trip to Halong Bay. The guide will share fascinating information about the area as you travel, maybe spotting rural views of ordinary life in northern Vietnam.

Upon reaching the cruise port around noon, you will complete check-in before boarding your luxury cruise ship. The friendly crew will welcome you with refreshing drinks while explaining safety procedures.

As you enjoy lunch in the dining room, the vessel will begin its journey into the heart of the bay. The spectacular views of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters will immediately capture your attention.

Afternoon

The afternoon offers various activities to enhance your Halong Bay experience. You may choose to visit the magnificent Surprise Cave, one of the largest caverns in the area with impressive formations. What an incredible display of nature's artistry with countless stalactites hanging from the ceiling like stone chandeliers! The climb rewards you with panoramic views across the bay's scattered islands.

You may join a Vietnamese cooking class as the evening comes. Following a delicious dinner with fresh seafood, the night presents many entertainment choices. You can relax with cocktails beneath the stars or try squid fishing. The trip provides extra spa services bookable via the cruise manager for individuals looking for calm.

NOTE: The cruise route may differ based on your selected cruise.

Morning

Early risers will be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise over Halong Bay. The soft morning light creates a magical atmosphere as it illuminates the limestone karsts rising from misty waters. After enjoying a light breakfast with coffee or tea in the dining room, you might join a Tai Chi session on the deck to energize your body and mind while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

The morning adventure continues with a visit to Titop Island with its crescent-shaped beach and crystal-clear waters. You may spend about two hours here swimming in the pristine sea or climbing to the observation platform. From the summit, you will enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of countless islands dotting the emerald bay.

The cruise will serve a delicious brunch before you return to your cabin to pack your belongings.

Afternoon

Around midday, your cruise will dock at Tuan Chau Port where your driver will be waiting. The journey continues with a transfer to Hanoi airport for your flight to Hue in central Vietnam.

Upon arrival in the former imperial capital - Hue, another driver will meet you for the short transfer to your hotel. You might want to take a leisurely evening stroll to get your first glimpse of this historic city.

Morning

A fascinating day of exploration awaits as your local guide meets you at your hotel between 08:00 and 08:15. The morning begins with a short drive to the boat station for a journey along the Perfume River. Gliding through the water, you will reach Thien Mu Pagoda with its distinctive seven-story tower. You might notice monks going about their daily routines in this still-functioning Buddhist monastery dating back to 1601.

After the river cruise, you will explore the magnificent Imperial Citadel, once the political heart of Vietnam. Within its massive walls, you may wander through ornate gates and tranquil gardens reserved for emperors.

The visit continues to Long An Palace Museum, where royal artifacts showcase imperial life. You will experience the bustling atmosphere of Dong Ba Market with vendors selling conical hats and spices.

Afternoon

The afternoon takes you to two remarkable royal tombs outside Hue. Tu Duc Tomb impresses with its landscape of lakes and pine forests. Khai Dinh Tomb features a unique blend of Vietnamese and European architecture.

As evening falls, you will enjoy a special royal dinner with dishes once prepared for emperors, transporting you to the golden age of Vietnam's last dynasty.

Departing from Hue after breakfast, your journey continues south toward the ancient town of Hoi An. The scenic coastal route will take you over the famous Hai Van Pass with its winding roads.

You might want to stop at several viewpoints to capture photos of the dramatic coastline below. You can have a chance to marvel at beautiful Lang Co Bay, where you may see fishermen with their traditional round boats.

Morning

The culinary adventure begins with a morning meeting at Hai Cafe around 08:00, where you can enjoy a welcome drink. Your guide will lead the small group via minivan to Tra Que Organic Village just outside Hoi An.

Walking through the lush gardens, you will observe local farmers tending their crops using traditional methods. The vibrant greens of herbs and vegetables create a picturesque setting against the rural backdrop.

Upon arrival at a local family home, you might be surprised by the warm hospitality and special herbal tea. Next, your cooking journey continues with a visit to a bustling local market. You may practice your bargaining skills while selecting fresh ingredients for your upcoming cooking lesson. The colorful produce and aromatic spices will awaken your senses to Vietnamese culinary traditions.

The highlight of your day awaits at Cooking School, where you'll have time to freshen up before class. What an amazing setting with professional cooking stations overlooking the peaceful river! Under the guidance of an experienced chef, you will learn to prepare authentic dishes from scratch. Your hands-on experience includes chopping, marinating, and cooking several traditional Vietnamese specialties.

After sampling your dishes for lunch, you will receive a certificate for your new cooking skills.

Afternoon

The day concludes with a relaxing boat cruise along the Thu Bon River back to central Hoi An, before returning to your hotel.

Use a day free of schedules to explore Hoi An at your leisure without any guided activities. Morning is the ideal time to either sleep in or have a relaxed breakfast at a lovely café. You could spend some time walking around the Old Town, which has colorful lanterns and merchant houses that have been kept in good shape.

For those seeking more structured activities, several optional tours can enhance your Hoi An experience.

• Hoi An: Half-Day Walking City Tour - From US $34 /pax
• My Son Sanctuary Half-Day Tour from Hoi An - From US $48 /pax
• Hoi An Motorbike Street Food Tour Half Day - From US $58 /pax
• Cam Thanh Coconut Village Basket Boat Tour - From US $44 /pax

Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate browsing boutiques selling custom-made clothing and local handicrafts. The afternoon may be perfect for a tailoring appointment with Hoi An's skilled artisans. As evening approaches, you might enjoy dinner before strolling through the lantern-lit streets that transform the town after sunset.

Today marks your transition from Vietnam to Cambodia as you prepare for the next chapter of your journey. Your driver will collect you from your Hoi An hotel for a morning transfer to Da Nang Airport for an international flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap airport, your new Cambodian guide will welcome you and assist with visa formalities if needed. After checking into your centrally located hotel, you will have free time to refresh and begin exploring this gateway town to the ancient Angkor temples. You may want to stroll around the Old Market area or sample authentic Khmer cuisine at a local restaurant before tomorrow's big adventure.

Morning

Your day of temple exploration begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel for the drive to ancient Angkor. First on your itinerary is Angkor Thom, entering through the impressive South Gate adorned with massive stone faces. Within these walls, you will discover the enigmatic Bayon Temple featuring 216 smiling faces carved into 54 towers. The nearby Elephant Terrace once served as a viewing platform for royal ceremonies.

Before lunch, your guide will lead you to the atmospheric Ta Prohm temple, where massive tree roots embrace ancient stones. What an incredible sight to see these giant trees reclaiming the temple structures with their powerful roots! You might recognize this mystical setting from the Tomb Raider film as you walk through corridors dappled with sunlight.

Afternoon

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the magnificent Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the 12th century, this temple complex represents the pinnacle of Khmer architectural achievement. You will spend time admiring the extensive bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics and mythological scenes. As the day ends, you might catch the temple bathed in golden light before returning to your hotel.

Morning

The day begins with a scenic 35km drive northeast of Siem Reap after your hotel breakfast. Your destination is the exquisite Banteay Srei temple, often called the "Citadel of Women" due to its delicate carvings. Unlike other Angkor temples, this 10th-century marvel was constructed from pink sandstone. You will notice the extraordinary level of detail in stone carvings depicting Hindu deities throughout the small but impressive complex.

On the return journey, you will stop at Pradark Village to observe local craftspeople making palm sugar. This traditional process offers a glimpse into rural Cambodian life and sustainable local industries. You might purchase some of this natural sweetener as a unique souvenir to take home. Your morning excursion concludes with a return to your hotel around noon for some rest time.

Afternoon

At 13:00, your guide will collect you for an expedition to Kompong Phluk, a community built on wooden stilts along Tonle Sap Lake. Traveling by traditional flat-bottomed boat, you will cruise through the village where houses stand meters above water.

The highlight comes as you board the impressive Queen Tara, the largest riverboat on Tonle Sap Lake. This special cruise includes trip through the floating forest and villages before anchoring for sunset. You will enjoy a delicious buffet meal with drinks while watching the sunset over the lake. The boat offers hammocks and a top deck for optimal viewing before returning to your hotel around 19:30.

Enjoy a well-deserved break from scheduled activities with a full day at leisure in charming Siem Reap. You might choose to sleep late and recover from temple explorations or head out early. The colorful Old Market offers excellent souvenir shopping opportunities with local crafts and textiles. The central area has numerous cafés where you can sample authentic Khmer cuisine like fish amok or beef lok lak.

You may want to treat yourself to a traditional Khmer massage to soothe temple-tired muscles. The town offers many affordable spa options with skilled practitioners using ancient techniques. As evening approaches, consider exploring Pub Street with its lively atmosphere and variety of dining options. You will find everything from budget-friendly food stalls to upscale restaurants along this popular thoroughfare.

For more experience, you can also choose some of our optional tours: 

• Chong Kneas Floating Village Half Day - From US $80 /pax
• Sunset by Quad Excursion - From US $60 /pax
• Siem Reap Zipline Half Day - From US $118 /pax

Bid farewell to Cambodia as you check out from your Siem Reap hotel for your flight to Vietnam. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your short international flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your new Vietnamese guide will welcome you and transport you to your hotel. You might enjoy some relaxation time after check-in before exploring Vietnam's southern metropolis.

For those eager to discover the city right away, several optional tours are available this afternoon.

• Ho Chi Minh City Half Day - From US $39 /pax
• Ho Chi Minh Vespa Half Day - From From Us $79 /pax
• Saigon Night Life & Food Tour by Motorbike - From US $65 /pax

Morning

Experience a premium excursion to one of Vietnam's most significant historical sites as your guide meets you at 07:00. A comfortable car will transport you to Tan Cang Pier where a luxury speedboat awaits. The journey begins with a light breakfast of pastries and fresh fruits served onboard. You might appreciate the changing scenery from urban landscapes to lush greenery while cruising along the Saigon River.

Upon reaching the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, you will watch a documentary explaining how this underground network served during wartime. Walking through the jungle, you may discover cleverly disguised tunnel entrances and military installations. The tour includes opportunities to explore widened sections of tunnels while maintaining their authentic atmosphere.

After experiencing life underground, you will enjoy traditional refreshments like green tea and cassava root. The visit also includes demonstrations of rice paper making and rice wine production. Your morning concludes with lunch at the scenic Tan Cang Resort before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

In the evening, you can spend your free time enjoying the following tours:

• Dinner Cruise on Saigon River - From US $39 /pax
• Must See Cultural A O Show Saigon Ticket - From US $32 /pax
• Saigon Walking Foodie Tour - From US $40 /pax

Option 1: Cai Be - Vinh Long - Can Tho

Meet at Cai Be Jetty at 10:00. Enjoy cold towels and a welcome drink as you board the Cai Be Princess Sampan for a relaxing cruise through the Mekong’s waterways. Watch life unfold along the riverbanks while sipping tea and tasting seasonal fruit. Then visit a 19th-century ancient house and stop at local cottage industries (coconut candy, puffed rice).

Lunch at Le Longanier Restaurant, a colonial-style villa set in lush riverside gardens. Afterward, you continue cruising via Dong Phu Canal toward Vinh Long, passing Binh Hoa Phuoc and An Binh Islands, known for their orchards. Visit Cai Be Church before crossing the Co Chien River and disembarking at Vinh Long Pier around 16:00. Your vehicle then transfers you to Can Tho.

Option 2: Cai Be – Dong Hoa Hiep – Phu An – Ho Chi Minh City

Meet at Cai Be Jetty at 10:00. You will board the sampan with a welcome drink and cold towels for a peaceful cruise on the Mekong. Watch fishing boats and barges as your crew serves tea and fruit. At Tan Phong Islet, take a rowboat through quiet mangroves, then return to the sampan. Visit a 19th-century house and local craft workshops (coconut candy, puffed rice).

Enjoy lunch at Le Longanier Restaurant, surrounded by tropical gardens. Around 14:30, walk along a canal to Ba Bon Bridge, where your vehicle awaits for the 2-hour drive back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Time for a change of pace as you leave the bustling city behind for island paradise. Your driver will transfer you to the airport for a short morning flight to Phu Quoc.

Upon arrival, a hotel representative will greet you for the journey to your luxury beach resort. The rest of the day remains free for you to explore the resort facilities and enjoy your first beach sunset.

Spend three indulgent days unwinding at a luxury beach resort on Phu Quoc Island. Enjoy white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and personalized service. You can choose to join optional activities such as spa treatments, snorkeling, sunset cruises, or simply relaxing by the pool with a tropical drink in hand.

After breakfast, you will have some free time to pack your bags and check out of your hotel. Your driver will transfer you to the airport, where you might reflect on the highlights of your adventure. The memories of Vietnam's beaches, bustling cities, and ancient temples will travel with you. Safe travels as you journey home or onward to your next destination!