Thailand is a popular destination for western tourists, with millions visiting Bangkok and Chiang Mai each year. Similarly, Vietnam and Cambodia are now prominent places of interest, having grown in popularity over the previous decade as budget-friendly yet worthy vacation choices for all travelers. Covering all three countries in a two-week vacation is possible, as long as you properly design your tour route with main highlights.
Read on to see some destinations you can consider to put in your bucket list as well as get inspired by several suggested itineraries to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
Best Destinations to Visit in Vietnam
Hanoi
Hanoi is bustling, traffic-choked, yet beautiful all at the same time. The thousand-year-old capital city on a bend of the Red River is brimming with history, museums, art galleries, markets, and delicious street food. Don't miss the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s beating heart, which is packed with restaurants, hotels, and temples nestled between shops. Learn how to cross the streets of motorbikes while on a walking street food tour or seeing the ochre-hued colonial buildings, Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.
Halong Bay
For many, the ethereal seascape of Halong Bay is what comes to their mind first when mentioning Vietnam travel. Halong Bay cruises, from traditional junks to luxury vessels, sail through the aqua-green waters of UNESCO-listed bay and thousands of craggy limestone outcrops before stopping at hidden caverns where visitors can wander and see impressive, centuries-old stalactites and stalagmites. Halong Bay's magical beauty has made it a must-see site in the country, yet you can still discover isolated corners to yourself when exploring the neighboring Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay.
Hoi An
With age-old Chinese-styled temples, merchant houses, and French colonial residences now mostly converted into boutique hotels, tailors, and craft shops, Hoi An is one of Vietnam's most magnificent instances of blending old and contemporary. Stroll around this UNESCO-protected town; you’ll see narrow lantern-hanging lanes and winding alleyways lined with one-story, ochre-colored homes. Come for the peaceful vibes, tailor-made clothing, and delicious local dishes. The nearby An Bang beach also offers downtime for vacationers.
Ho Chi Minh City
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City is not only the main center of economy, tourism, and culture in southern Vietnam but also the gateway to the vast Mekong Delta. The metropolis is famous for its spectacular architectural masterpieces, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House. For history buffs, check out the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Cu Chi Tunnels. Those looking for a lively atmosphere will be pleased with the city’s vibrant nightlife in Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, Bui Vien Street, and Ben Thanh Market.
Best Destinations to Visit in Cambodia
Siem Reap
Most tourists think about Siem Reap as an entrance to the Angkor temples, but this lovely town has grown as a world-class destination in its own right, with a fantastic range of hotels, restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and edgy galleries. The trio temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm are certainly iconic and world-famous, yet if you prefer to see smaller crowds, head out of town to see the exquisitely carved Banteay Srei, the jungle-covered Beng Mealea, and the pyramid-style Koh Ker. For a different experience, embark on a boat trip to otherworldly floating villages on the Tonlé Sap and learn how local life happens on the water.
Phnom Penh
Stepping out of its war-torn past to walk towards a brighter future, Phnom Penh undergoes a great transformation. The capital of Cambodia has grown to be one of the busiest and most active towns in Southeast Asia, teeming with boutique accommodations, epicurean restaurants, and charming bars to cater to all travelers’ tastes. Cultural enthusiasts can explore its traditional Khmer-style buildings at the Royal Palace and National Museum, while the harrowing Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields will showcase the best and worst of the country’s history.
Best Destinations to Visit in Thailand
Bangkok
Bangkok, Thailand’s lively capital, is usually where most tourists begin their vacation in Thailand. The city is nothing short of fascinating, but a sensory explosion, in a good way. Savor delicious street food on a local tuk tuk ride; explore the back streets and busy alleys to find hidden temples, eateries, and small markets; take a long-tail boat trip on the Chao Phraya; and have a drink at one of the many rooftop bars. Besides should-not-miss sites like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace, travelers can pay a visit to some unique Thai markets out of the city, such as Damnoen Saduak floating market and Maeklong railway market.
Chiang Mai
Often considered a jumping-off point for backpackers and trekkers to the lush northern hilly landscapes of Thailand, Chiang Mai itself is a renowned destination with a relatively slower pace of life than the commotion of Bangkok, as well as temple-topped mountains and hill-forest hikes. Begin slowly with a boat ride on the Mae Ping River, shop for handicrafts at the night bazaar, taste local dishes, see cool temples, venture outside the city to Doi Inthanon National Park for sweeping views of northern nature, and visit an elephant sanctuary for some rest with these gentle giants.
Phuket
Thailand’s largest and most readily accessible island, Phuket, is a must-see on any list of the country’s best destinations. While the island has a reputation for being overcrowded with parties and resorts, it’s favored by both locals and tourists alike due to its beautiful palm-fringed beaches and very affordable travel costs, including from food to lodging. Partygoers will enjoy the nightlife in the well-praised Patong Beach, while culture lovers will find interesting corners and flavorful cuisine in Phuket Old Town. Complete your beach vacation in this little piece of paradise with a long-tail boat ride to nearby islands for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Suggested Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour Itineraries
Itinerary #1: Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour Package – 20 Days
On this classic tour, you'll discover some must-visit highlights in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Knowledgeable local guides will show you Hanoi and Hoi An’s ancient charm, take you into the magnificent Angkor complex, and reveal Bangkok’s vibrant local life. Other significant highlights include an overnight cruise in Halong Bay, a day tour to the scenic Mekong Delta, and several days of relaxing on the sandy beaches of Phuket.
Brief Travel Route & Highlights:
Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi, Leisure time
Day 2 Sightseeing Tour, Local Food Discovery & Nightlife Experience
Day 3 Travel by shared limousine bus to Tuan Chau, On board Peony Cruise (Group tour)
Day 4 Travel to Cat Ba Island, Back to Tuan Chau, Return to Hanoi
Day 5 Fly to Danang, Private transfer to Hoi An
Day 6 Cycle around Hoi An towards the countryside, Walking tour in the ancient town
Day 7 Fly to Hochiminh City, Leisure time
Day 8 Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon city tour
Day 9 Day trip to Ben Tre, the less-touristy town in the Mekong Delta
Day 10 Fly to Siem Reap, Leisure time
Day 11 Full day of Angkor Temples
Day 12 Visit Banteay Srey, Kbal Spean Jungle Walk and Roluos Group
Day 13 Fly to Bangkok, Leisure time
Day 14 Bangkok city tour
Day 15 Tour Maeklong Railway Market & Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Day 16 Fly to Phuket, Leisure time
Day 17 Visit James Bond & Khai islands by Speed Boat (Group tour)
Day 18 A half day visit to the Elephant Sanctuary (Group tour)
Day 19 A free day
Day 20 Departure from Phuket
Find tour details here: Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour Package
Itinerary #2: Best of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand – 16 Days
Immerse yourself in the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Southeast Asia’s famous trio, including Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Sail the aqua-green waters of otherworldly Halong Bay, meander through the overgrown courtyards of Angkor, and witness the buzz of Thai culture at local markets. This well-crafted trip has you experiencing the best of Southeast Asia’s old and new at every turn.
Brief Travel Route & Highlights:
Day 1 Arrive in Hanoi, Leisure time
Day 2 Sightseeing Tour, Local Food Discovery & Nightlife Experience
Day 3 Travel by shared limousine bus to Tuan Chau, On board Peony cruise (Group tour)
Day 4 Morning cruise excursions, Return to Hanoi, Fly to Hochiminh City
Day 5 Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and city tour
Day 6 Day trip to Ben Tre, the less-touristy town in the Mekong Delta
Day 7 Fly to Siem Reap, Leisure time
Day 8 Full day of Angkor Temples
Day 9 Visit Banteay Srey, Kbal Spean Jungle Walk and Roluos Group
Day 10 Fly to Bangkok, Leisure time
Day 11 Bangkok city tour
Day 12 Tour Maeklong Railway Market & Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Day 13 Fly to Chiang Mai, Half day city tour
Day 14 One day visit Doi Inthanon National Park
Day 15 Elephant’s full day care at Baanchang Elephant Park (Group tour)
Day 16 Departure from Chiang Mai
Find tour details here: Best of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand
Itinerary #3: Thailand Vietnam Cambodia Tour Package – 20 Days
This tour route is perfect for those looking for a comprehensive introduction to Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. During your stay in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, you will explore Thai local life through city tours, market excursions, and a boat trip to the Golden Triangle. Then jet off to Vietnam for the Halong Bay cruise, Hoi An ancient town walk, and Mekong Delta discovery. Round off your Southeast Asian adventure with visits to the world-famous temples of Angkor in Siem Reap.
Brief Travel Route & Highlights:
Day 1 Arrive in Bangkok, Leisure time
Day 2 Bangkok city tour
Day 3 Tour Maeklong Railway Market & Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Day 4 Fly to Chiang Rai, Half day city tour
Day 5 Full Day Tour to Golden Triangle
Day 6 Private transfer to Chiang Mai, City tour
Day 7 Elephant’s full day care at Baanchang Elephant Park (Group tour)
Day 8 Fly to Hanoi, Leisure time
Day 9 A full day of Hanoi sightseeing tour
Day 10 Transfer to Halong Bay, Stay overnight on cruise (Group tour)
Day 11 Morning cruise excursions, Return to Hanoi, Fly to Danang, Private transfer to Hoi An
Day 12 Cycle around Hoi An towards the countryside, Walking tour in the ancient town
Day 13 A free day
Day 14 Fly to Hochiminh City, Leisure time
Day 15 Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and city tour
Day 16 Day trip to Ben Tre, the less-touristy town in the Mekong Delta
Day 17 Fly to Siem Reap, Leisure time
Day 18 Full day of Angkor Temples
Day 19 Visit Banteay Srey, Kbal Spean Jungle Walk, and Roluos Group
Day 20 Departure from Siem Reap
-ori.jpg)
Find tour details here: Thailand Vietnam Cambodia Tour Package
Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam are three popular choices for most Southeast Asia trips, which provide every piece of the region. The above destinations are unmissable stops for first-time visitors, and if you still feel a little overwhelmed when planning a journey to these enchanting countries, feel free to contact our travel consultants, who are always willing to help you create a tailor-made holiday in Southeast Asia.
