Welcome to Southeast Asia! This 18-day itinerary will take you to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos for a combination of cultural sightseeing and outdoor activities. Your trip to Vietnam will focus on the most famous sights, including the war history in Saigon, the floating market on the Mekong River, the picturesque Halong Bay, and the bustling old quarter in Hanoi, etc. In Cambodia, you will visit the renowned Angkor heritage sites and the Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap. In Laos, you will visit the UNESCO-listed city of Luang Prabang, where the early morning almsgiving ritual is not to be missed.
Itinerary Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 3
Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City: Arrival and Explore the Charm City at Leisure My Tho: Mekong River Cruise Can Tho: Cai Rang Floating Market
4 - 6
Cambodia
Siem Reap: Angkor Temples, Tonle Sap Lake, Apsara Show
Hanoi: Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Complex, Water Puppet Show Halong Bay: Relaxing on Cruise Hue: Forbidden Purple City, Imperial Citadel, Dong Ba Market Da Nang: Hai Van Pass, Non-Nuoc Beach, Marble Mountain Hoi An: Cua Dai River Boat Cruise, Former Merchant’s House Ho Chi Minh City: War Remnants, Post Office, Cu Chi Tunnels
Itinerary
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Day 1: Ho Chi Minh City
Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City! Once you land on the Ho Chi Minh City Airport, you’ll be greeted by your private guide and driver and then transferred to check in the hotel. The rest of the day is yours to recover from the jet lag.
Ho Chi Minh City
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - My Tho - Can Tho
Start the day with a drive to My Tho for a boat ride on the Tien River. Next, explore the My Tho fish market and Four Islands. Have a cart ride through a scenic village to Mr. Muoi Hai’s house for a nice cup of honey tea and fresh seasonal fruits. Besides, you may try your hand at rowing a sampan along the canals of Mekong River.
In the afternoon, head for Can Tho by car and stay overnight.
B
L
Can Tho
Day 3: Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap
After breakfast, you’ll cruise by boat on the shining streams along the waterway of the enormous Mekong River to see the biggest floating market in the Mekong Delta – Cai Rang floating market. Then return to Ho Chi Minh and fly to Siem Reap. Upon arrival, your private guide will take you to your hotel and help with your check-in. The rest of the day is yours to relax and recover.
B
L
Siem Reap
Day 4: Siem Reap
After enjoying breakfast, head for the magnificent Angkor Thom Complex where you’ll explore the South Gate, the Bayon Temple and the Elephant Terrace.
In the afternoon, visit the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat which is a temple famed for its grand scale and incredible detail and is the heart and soul of Cambodia. Next, enjoy a stunning sunset view of Angkor Wat at the nearby Bakheng Temple.
In the evening, you’ll watch a fabulous Apsara Dinner Show that features women performing ancient art of Apsara dance, dressed in tunics and sequined tops.
B
L
D
Siem Reap
Day 5: Siem Reap
You may get up early to enjoy the beautiful sunrise at Angkor Wat, or you can start the day touring the local villages on your way to Banteay Srei Temple, a 10th century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. After lunch, visit the Ta Prohm Temple known for huge trees and massive roots growing out of its walls and Takeo Temple, a temple mountain which was constructed with the biggest blocks of sandstone in Angkor time.
B
L
Siem Reap
Day 6: Siem Reap - Luang Prabang
Start the day visiting a Khmer Village where you can soak up the lovely views of the rice paddies and palm trees. Proceed to the incredible “Great Lake” of Cambodia – Tonle Sap Lake with a relaxing boat cruise.
After the cruise, fly to Luang Prabang and transfer to the hotel for check-in, after which you’ll hike up to Mount Phousi to discover the sacred gilded stupa and get an amazing view of the old town and the Mekong River.
This evening, visiting a night market can be a great way to while away your evening hours.
B
L
Luang Prabang
Day 7: Luang Prabang
Get up early to see one of the most sacred Lao traditions, the alms giving procession at 5:40 am. After that, head for Lao’s most enchanting temple, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat Visoun and Royal Palace Museum.
Drive to see the lovely multi-tiered Khouang Si Waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip in the turquoise pools or a walk along the forest trails. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the waterfall before getting back to the hotel.
B
L
Luang Prabang
Day 8: Luang Prabang
After breakfast, take a laid-back cruise upstream on the mighty Mekong River to explore the Pak Ou Caves noted for their miniature Buddha sculptures. On the way you’ll make a stop at the villages of Ban Xanghai and Ban Xang Khong, both of which are famed for hand weaving. Return to the town of Luang Prabang and spend the rest of the day on your own.
B
L
Luang Prabang
Day 9: Luang Prabang - Hanoi
Wake up in chilled-out Luang Prabang, enjoy your leisure time before to be escorted to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. On arrival, you will be met and driven to your hotel for the night.
B
L
Hanoi
Day 10: Hanoi Sightseeing
Your Hanoi sightseeing tour starts with a visit to Ho Chi Minh Complex (closed on Monday and Friday), Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple.
In the afternoon, explore the Museum of Ethnology before getting on a bike or a rickshaw to take in the ambience of the Old Quarter. After the ride, take a break at the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, where you will watch an entertaining water puppet show.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant.
B
L
Hanoi
Day 11: Hanoi - Halong Bay
Take a 3-hour scenic drive to the World Heritage site of Halong Bay. On the leisurely Halong Bay cruise, you’ll have the chance to see nearly 2,000 karst islands dotting the sea and traditional sampans and junks. You’ll also explore grottos, thick forests and hidden coves, which can be a great ocean adventure. We recommend you take part in some optional activities like kayaking, swimming and diving to make this trip more exciting and memorable.
B
L
D
Halong Bay
Day 12: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Hue
This morning, your relaxing Halong Bay cruise continues until you finish your hearty brunch. You’ll next disembark the cruiser and meet your private guide and driver at the pier and transfer to the airport for your flight to the Imperial City of Hue. Once you arrive, you’ll be taken to the hotel and enjoy some free evening hours.
B
L
Hue
Day 13: Hue
Begin your visit to the majestic Tomb of King Minh Mang, and then take a relaxing royal dragon boat ride on the Perfume River to see the breathtaking Thien Mu Pagoda. After that, transfer to visit Imperial Citadel and tour the Forbidden Purple City, which was served as royal residence of Nguyen dynasty. Later on, get lost in the sights, sounds and smells of the bustling Dong Ba Market, Hue’s largest market.
B
L
Hue
Day 14: Hue - Da Nang - Hoi An
Today, you’ll leave for Hoi An via Da Nang by road. Along the way, you’ll get an amazing view of the coastline and Da Nang from the Hai Van Pass. Upon your arrival in Da Nang, unwind at the stunning Non Nuoc Beach with soft white sand. Visit the fine Cham Museum which houses the largest collection of Cham artifacts, followed by a trip to the Marble Mountains, a popular pilgrimage place with peaks, caves, tunnels and temples. After that, drive on to Hoi An where you’ll stay overnight.
B
L
Hoi An
Day 15: Hoi An
You’ll go on an eco-tour this morning. You’ll be escorted to a fishing village first to get on a join-in eco-tour boat and cruise on the Cua Dai River. Gain hands-on experience of traditional fishing from the local fishermen and paddle a private Vietnamese bamboo basket boat. In the afternoon, you’ll get a real taste of this charming town on a trip to Zen-inspired Japanese Bridge, the nicely decorated Chinese Temple and the former Vietnamese merchants’ houses. Your guide will let you know all the histories of these sites.
B
L
Hoi An
Day 16: Hoi An - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City
After breakfast, fly to Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll then tour a series of interesting sites like Binh Tay Market, War Remnants, Tan Dinh Church, Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street, Continental Hotel, Opera House. Have a free stroll around these sites as some of them are all within your walking distance.
After seeing these sights, you’re free at leisure.
B
L
Ho Chi Minh City
Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City
Start today’s tour with an exploration of the extravagantly decorated Cao Dai Temple, which incorporates Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism and Confucianism and whose worshippers strive for world peace and harmony. After lunch, you’ll visit the legendary Cu Chi Tunnel, an immense underground network built by Vietnamese fighters during their war of independence.
B
L
Ho Chi Minh City
Day 18: Departure
Enjoy some free time on your own before you’re escorted by your guide and driver to the airport for your flight home.
B
Included
Private door-to-door pick-up & drop-off services
All private transportation
Accommodation shared in Double/Twin room or triple room with daily breakfast
Meals as stated in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
All sightseeing tickets
Tissues and water on coach
Services charges and government tax
Exclusive and personalized single agent/single customer service
No extra charge after services confirmation
24/7 hotline support guaranteed
Not Included
International flights & Departure taxes if any
Domestic flights
Personal expenses, tips and gratuities
Travel insurance
Beverage
Compulsory Gala dinner on X-Mas or New Year if any
Vietnam visa
Other services not mentioned above
Optional Enhancements
Dinner with a Local Family in Hanoi
Step inside a traditional home and share an evening with a three-generation Vietnamese family. Join them in preparing the meal,...View more
Dinner with a Local Family in Hanoi
Step inside a traditional home and share an evening with a three-generation Vietnamese family. Join them in preparing the meal, guided by your host and interpreter, and enjoy a warm dinner filled with conversation and laughter. This intimate experience provides rare insight into family traditions, values, and daily life in modern Hanoi.
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels with a Local Veteran at Ben Duoc
Travel to the quieter Ben Duoc section of the Cu Chi Tunnels, away from the busier tourist route. Here, you’ll...View more
Visit Cu Chi Tunnels with a Local Veteran at Ben Duoc
Travel to the quieter Ben Duoc section of the Cu Chi Tunnels, away from the busier tourist route. Here, you’ll meet a former guerrilla fighter who spent his youth digging and living in the tunnels during the war. Listening to his personal memories brings the history of Cu Chi to life in a deeply human way, offering perspective that goes beyond what you’ll find in museums.
Sustainable Luxury Cruise in Halong Bay
Sail across the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard an eco-conscious vessel operated by our esteemed partner, Indochina Junk. This...View more
Sustainable Luxury Cruise in Halong Bay
Sail across the emerald waters of Halong Bay aboard an eco-conscious vessel operated by our esteemed partner, Indochina Junk. This experience combines refined comfort with a strong commitment to sustainability — from community support initiatives to active environmental clean-up programs. You will also explore the secluded beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay, a quieter and more pristine area far from the crowds.
A Day in the Red River Delta Village
Step into the daily rhythm of rural Vietnam. Walk or cycle through lush rice paddies and charming hamlets of the...View more
A Day in the Red River Delta Village
Step into the daily rhythm of rural Vietnam. Walk or cycle through lush rice paddies and charming hamlets of the Red River Delta. Visit local households, talk with farmers, and witness traditional crafts that have endured for generations. For those seeking a more active day, we can arrange a cycling route through scenic countryside paths; for a slower pace, a guided village walk offers just as much connection and warmth.
Behind-the-Scenes Water Puppet Experience
Enjoy an exclusive encounter with one of Hanoi’s master water-puppet artists, a third-generation performer and craftsman. During your private visit,...View more
Behind-the-Scenes Water Puppet Experience
Enjoy an exclusive encounter with one of Hanoi’s master water-puppet artists, a third-generation performer and craftsman. During your private visit, you’ll see how the wooden puppets are carved and painted, then learn the secrets of this centuries-old art form. Afterward, enjoy a private performance followed by a rare opportunity to go behind the curtain — where the artist will guide you in bringing the puppets to life.
Hue Royal Connection Experience
Be guided through the former imperial city of Hue by a direct descendant of the Nguyen royal family — the...View more
Hue Royal Connection Experience
Be guided through the former imperial city of Hue by a direct descendant of the Nguyen royal family — the great-granddaughter of the sister of King Bao Dai, Vietnam’s last monarch. Holding a PhD in Royal Court Music, she brings both heritage and scholarship to your visit. For a deeper encounter, dine at her private residence surrounded by a traditional garden designed on Feng Shui principles. Savor a home-cooked royal meal, admire family heirlooms, and enjoy a private performance of Hue Court Music, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Saigon Night Street Food Tour by Vintage Vespa
Ride through lively neighborhoods on a vintage Vespa and taste dishes favored by locals. Visit trusted street stalls, small eateries,...View more
Saigon Night Street Food Tour by Vintage Vespa
Ride through lively neighborhoods on a vintage Vespa and taste dishes favored by locals. Visit trusted street stalls, small eateries, and hidden alley shops. Watch the city come alive after dark as you move through both busy streets and quiet lanes. Meet food vendors and learn how each dish is prepared. This experience offers a close look at Saigon’s street food culture in an engaging way.
Hoi An Backroads Cycling & Village Cooking Experience
Cycle through peaceful countryside paths lined with rice fields, coconut groves, and waterways. Meet farmers working in their gardens and...View more
Hoi An Backroads Cycling & Village Cooking Experience
Cycle through peaceful countryside paths lined with rice fields, coconut groves, and waterways. Meet farmers working in their gardens and learn about daily agricultural routines. Join simple tasks if you want a hands-on experience. Visit a village kitchen for a short cooking demonstration and see how local dishes are made. Enjoy a fresh lunch prepared with seasonal ingredients. This activity brings you into direct contact with rural life around Hoi An.
Visit a Buddhist Pagoda With Vegetarian Lunch
Visit a local pagoda and explore the prayer hall, courtyard and garden. You will meet the nuns who maintain the...View more
Visit a Buddhist Pagoda With Vegetarian Lunch
Visit a local pagoda and explore the prayer hall, courtyard and garden. You will meet the nuns who maintain the grounds and prepare daily offerings, then enjoy a vegetarian lunch cooked with fresh ingredients from their garden. After the meal, you can talk with the nuns about their routines, their education and the role Buddhism plays in community life. This experience gives you time to slow down, observe daily rituals and ask the questions that matter to you.
Conversation with an S-21 Survivor in Phnom Penh
In Phnom Penh, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and meet one of the few living survivors who endured...View more
Conversation with an S-21 Survivor in Phnom Penh
In Phnom Penh, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and meet one of the few living survivors who endured imprisonment there during the Khmer Rouge era. Hearing his story firsthand is a moving, unforgettable experience that sheds light on Cambodia’s tragic past and its path toward resilience and hope.
Siem Reap Buffalo Cart Ride & Village Walk
Travel to the outskirts of Siem Reap for a relaxed afternoon in a quiet village. Take a buffalo cart ride...View more
Siem Reap Buffalo Cart Ride & Village Walk
Travel to the outskirts of Siem Reap for a relaxed afternoon in a quiet village. Take a buffalo cart ride around the community and observe daily routines at a gentle pace. Walk through the village lanes and meet friendly residents. Step into a local home to learn how families cook, farm, and manage their household. This experience highlights the traditions and rhythms of rural Cambodia.
Take part in a meaningful blessing ceremony led by village elders or monks. Receive cotton strings tied around your wrists...View more
Take part in a meaningful blessing ceremony led by village elders or monks. Receive cotton strings tied around your wrists as they offer wishes for health and good fortune. Learn why this ritual plays an important role during celebrations and life events in Laos. This experience adds a thoughtful cultural moment to your journey and invites you to reflect before continuing your travels.
Begin the day before sunrise and take part in the alms giving ceremony that has shaped daily life in Luang...View more
Begin the day before sunrise and take part in the alms giving ceremony that has shaped daily life in Luang Prabang for generations. You will receive guidance on local etiquette before offering sticky rice as the monks walk silently through the streets. The town slowly wakes up around the ritual, creating a calm and reflective atmosphere. After the ceremony, your host will explain the meaning behind this tradition and why it remains an important part of local culture. You can take this moment to think about what the experience brings to your journey.