Vietnam & Cambodia Discovery: A 15-Day Cultural & Scenic Journey

Welcome to Hanoi, Vietnam’s enchanting capital where ancient traditions meet modern vibrancy. Upon arrival, you’ll be personally greeted by your Oriental Destination representative and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Settle in, enjoy the amenities, or take a stroll for your first taste of this lively city.

Explore the characterful Old Quarter, where narrow lanes bustle with markets, street food, and colonial architecture. Visit the famous Train Street, where trains pass within inches of cafés and homes, or unwind by Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis home to the iconic Ngoc Son Temple.

In the evening, soak up Hanoi’s energy—browse night markets, see a traditional water puppet show, or enjoy a cocktail with a rooftop view.

For those with flights arriving earlier today, enjoy a special welcome dinner.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, welcome dinner, overnight Hanoi hotel 

Today, we dive deep into Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant street life. Our day begins with a guided exploration of Ba Dinh Square, including visits to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the elegant One-Pillar Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House—a serene window into the life of Vietnam’s beloved leader. We continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university and a tribute to Confucian traditions.

After a local Vietnamese lunch, choose from three unique afternoon experiences:

Option 1: Cyclo Tour & Street Food Adventure

Enjoy a leisurely cyclo ride through the bustling Old Quarter, passing historic “36 Streets,” artisan shops, and markets. Pause at Hoan Kiem Lake before diving into a flavorful street food tour, featuring local favorites like Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi, and Egg Coffee at a charming rooftop café.

Option 2: Bat Trang Pottery Village

Travel along the Red River to this famed artisan village. Walk its quiet alleys, visit a workshop for a hands-on pottery session, and browse the colorful Bat Trang Market. Optional visit to the Ceramic Museum rounds out this craft-focused cultural outing.

Option 3: Duong Lam Ancient Village

Step back in time at this well-preserved rural village. Visit the Mong Phu Communal House, centuries-old homes, and serene Mia Pagoda. Enjoy a local snack and tea with residents as you learn about traditional Vietnamese village life.

A Day to Remember

As the evening winds down, we reflect on a day filled with cultural discoveries, historical insights, and exquisite flavors. This immersive journey through Hanoi’s heritage, flavors, and hidden gems has set the perfect tone for our Classic Vietnam adventure—one that promises even more unforgettable experiences ahead.

Breakfast, coach tour, lunch, Cyclo ride, street food tour, overnight Hanoi hotel    

Today, we journey from Hanoi to the mystical waters of Ha Long and Lan Ha Bays, where emerald seas and towering limestone karsts create one of the world’s most breathtaking seascapes. Upon arrival, board a luxurious small cruise ship blending modern comfort with Oriental charm.

Enjoy a gourmet lunch on deck as stunning vistas unfold—ancient grottoes, floating fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs rising from the sea. In the afternoon, choose your adventure:

• Explore hidden caves and grottoes

• Kayak or swim in peaceful coves

• Relax on deck with panoramic views

Later, join a Vietnamese cooking class onboard before savoring a sumptuous dinner under the stars, surrounded by the serene beauty of the bay. The evening is yours to unwind—sip cocktails, enjoy onboard activities, or simply soak in the magic of the “Descending Dragon” from your floating haven.

Breakfast, lunch, cooking demonstration, dinner, overnight La Regina (or similar)

Rise early to witness a breathtaking sunrise over Lan Ha Bay, where limestone islets glow in the golden light of dawn. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the cruise continues past uniquely shaped karsts like Sail Island, Fisherman’s Head Rock, and Turtle Islet, each with its own legend. A sumptuous brunch is served as we return to the pier.

Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to Da Nang, then enjoy a scenic drive to Hoi An—Vietnam’s most atmospheric town. Wander its lantern-lit streets, explore vibrant markets and riverside walkways, and savor a local dinner accompanied by traditional music. Check into your boutique hotel and soak in the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Breakfast, brunch, flight Hanoi to Da Nang, dinner, overnight Hoi An hotel 

This morning, journey to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a peaceful water-palm oasis where we ride traditional bamboo basket boats through winding canals. Try your hand at net casting, join a fun boat race, and experience the vibrant daily life of local fishermen in this biodiverse coastal haven.

In the afternoon, choose one of two enriching cultural excursions:

Option 1: Tra Que Herb Village

Explore a tranquil farming village known for its fragrant herbs and organic methods. Join local farmers in hands-on gardening, then take part in a cooking class to prepare fresh spring rolls and more, followed by a farm-to-table lunch.

Option 2: Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Step back in time at this 16th-century artisan village. Watch master potters at work and try shaping your own ceramic creation on a traditional wheel. Personalize your piece and take home a handmade souvenir.

Return to Hoi An Ancient Town in the evening as it glows with thousands of lanterns. Enjoy free time to explore the night market, sip coffee by the river, or simply soak in the magical ambiance of this historic riverside town.

Breakfast, basket boat voyage, lunch, overnight Hoi An hotel 

Today is yours to explore the timeless beauty of Hoi An at your own pace. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town, visit landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge and Tan Ky Old House, sip tea in a historic teahouse, or have custom clothing made by expert tailors.

Optional Experiences: Enhance Your Journey

Choose from three curated excursions:

✔ Ba Na Hills & Golden Hands Bridge
Ride a scenic cable car to the mountaintop retreat of Ba Na Hills, explore a French village, and marvel at the famous Golden Bridge, held aloft by giant stone hands.

✔ My Son Sanctuary & Kim Bong Village Boat Tour
Explore the mystical ruins of My Son Sanctuary, then cruise the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Carpentry Village, home to generations of skilled artisans.

✔ Lantern-Making Workshop
Craft your own traditional lantern with local artisans—a meaningful and packable souvenir of Hoi An’s charm.

Prefer a slower pace? Cycle through the countryside, relax on Cua Dai Beach, or enjoy the town’s street food and lantern-lit night market. As evening falls, float down the Thu Bon River on a glowing boat ride for the perfect end to your day.

Breakfast, overnight Hoi An hotel 

Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Hue, traversing the Hai Van Pass, known as the “Ocean Cloud Pass.” Enjoy stunning panoramic views of misty mountains, the emerald coastline, and Lang Co Beach.

Upon arrival in Hue, the former imperial capital, we’ll step into a world of grandeur, exploring palaces, ancient pagodas, and tranquil landscapes along the Perfume River.

• Traditional Hue Lunch: Savor a local meal, indulging in royal delicacies once enjoyed by the emperors.

• Royal Citadel & Forbidden City: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore majestic gates, palaces, and royal courtyards that echo the history of the Nguyen Dynasty.

• Thien Mu Pagoda & Perfume River Cruise: Visit the revered seven-story pagoda and enjoy a serene boat cruise along the river, passing ancient temples and villages.

In the evening, delight in a special dinner featuring Hue’s renowned regional specialties, giving you a taste of the city’s rich culinary heritage.

Breakfast, lunch, river cruise, dinner, overnight Hue hotel 

Begin the day exploring Hue’s imperial heritage with two remarkable royal tombs:

• Minh Mang Mausoleum – A peaceful complex of gardens, lakes, and temples, reflecting Confucian harmony.

• Khai Dinh Mausoleum – A striking tomb known for its fusion of East-West design and intricate mosaic interiors.

Optional visit to the Thanh Toan Covered Bridge, a charming 18th-century wooden bridge set amid scenic rice paddies, and Thuy Xuan Incense Village, famous for its brightly colored incense sticks and traditional craftsmanship.

Enjoy a local lunch before transferring to the airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s most dynamic southern metropolis.
This evening, settle in and enjoy a superb dinner at a local restaurant, savouring the vibrant atmosphere of Saigon by night.

Breakfast, lunch, flight to Ho Chi Minh City, dinner, overnight Ho Chi Minh City hotel 

This morning, journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Explore hidden trapdoors, underground kitchens, and cramped passageways that reveal the ingenuity and resilience of wartime survival. For those who wish, crawl through a section of the tunnels for a firsthand experience. After this immersive visit, enjoy a local lunch before returning to the city.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s key landmarks:

• Reunification Palace – The historic site of the Vietnam War’s end in 1975.

• War Remnants Museum – A powerful, locally narrated account of the war through artifacts and photography.

• Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Stunning examples of French colonial architecture.

• Ben Thanh Market – Dive into the vibrant market culture with time to shop, snack, and explore.

As evening falls, the city lights up. Choose to unwind at a rooftop bar, stroll along the Saigon River, or dive into the city’s incredible street food and nightlife scene—from bustling night markets to chic eateries.

Breakfast, Cu Chi Tunnels tour, lunch, overnight Ho Chi Minh City hotel 

Today, we head to My Tho, gateway to the Mekong Delta, for an immersive look at riverside life. Cruising along the Mekong, we pass floating homes, markets, and stilt houses, stopping at Unicorn Island to enjoy tropical fruits, southern folk music, and a walk through lush orchards. A riverside lunch features regional specialties like elephant ear fish and Mekong prawns.

In the afternoon, we visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a serene temple blending Chinese, Khmer, and French styles, home to grand Buddha statues and peaceful gardens. We’ll return to the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh city in late afternoon, carrying with us the sweet memories and cultural richness of the Mekong Delta.

Optional Extension: Chau Doc – Culture & Nature in the Heart of the Delta

Those opting to continue to Chau Doc will explore the vibrant floating market, visit a Cham village, and learn about Islamic traditions and weaving crafts. After a regional lunch, we visit the breathtaking Tra Su Cajuput Forest, gliding through its bird-filled wetlands by boat and sampan. Climb the observation tower for sweeping views of the sanctuary before returning to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon.

Evening at leisure to explore, relax, or enjoy Saigon’s culinary scene.

Breakfast, river cruise, lunch, overnight Ho Chi Minh City hotel 

After breakfast, we say farewell to Vietnam and fly to Siem Reap, Cambodia—the enchanting entry point to the ancient Angkor temple complex. Upon arrival, we meet our local guide and begin discovering the cultural layers of this vibrant city.

Highlights of the Day:

• Wat Thmei Pagoda: A peaceful monastery and memorial site reflecting on Cambodia’s tragic past and spiritual resilience.

• Siem Reap Old Market (Psar Chas): Dive into Khmer culture with its colorful stalls, spices, local crafts, and buzzing street food.

• Evening Exploration: Option to wander night markets brimming with textiles, jewelry, and lively local energy.

We end the day with a traditional Khmer dinner, enjoying rich, fragrant dishes that reveal Cambodia’s unique culinary soul.

Tomorrow, the mystical temples of Angkor Wat await.

Breakfast, airport transfers, flight to Siem Reap, coach tour, dinner, overnight Siem Reap hotel

Today, we journey through Cambodia’s spiritual and cultural treasures—starting with ancient temples and ending on the tranquil waters of Tonle Sap Lake.

Morning: Banteay Srei & Roluos Temples

• Banteay Srei – Known as the “Citadel of Women,” this small pink sandstone temple features incredibly detailed carvings, considered among the finest of Angkor.

• Roluos Temples – Among the oldest temple complexes of the Khmer Empire:

  • Preah Ko, with its sacred bull statues;

  • Bakong, a stepped pyramid and early model for Angkor Wat;

  • Lolei, with its charming brick towers and intricate details.

Afternoon: Tonle Sap Lake & Chong Khneas Floating Village

• Cruise through Chong Khneas, a floating village where homes, schools, and markets drift with the seasons.

• Learn about daily life on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, shaped by rising and falling waters and sustained by fishing and local trade.

Evening: Khmer Dinner & Apsara Dance

• Enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner, followed by a graceful Apsara dance performance, echoing the elegance and mythology of Cambodia’s past.

Breakfast, temple touring, lunch, floating village boat tour, dinner, Apsara Dance show, overnight Siem Reap hotel

Today, we continue our journey through the majestic Angkor complex, delving into the heart of Khmer imperial grandeur and spiritual heritage.

Morning: Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm

• Angkor Thom – Enter via the South Gate, flanked by gods and demons, into the last capital of the Khmer Empire.

  • Stand in awe of Bayon Temple, with its iconic 200 smiling faces.

  • Visit Baphuon, the symbolic Mount Meru, and explore the Royal Enclosure and Phimeanakas, once a royal palace.

  • Stroll along the Elephant Terrace and uncover the carvings of the Leper King Terrace.

• Ta Prohm – Wander the hauntingly beautiful temple swallowed by jungle roots, a striking blend of nature and ancient architecture.

• Pause at Srah Srang, the serene royal bathing pool, before lunch.

Afternoon: Grand Circuit Temples

• Preah Khan – A sprawling, atmospheric temple dedicated to King Jayavarman VII’s father.

• Neak Pean – A small island temple symbolizing mythical healing waters.

• Banteay Kdei – A peaceful Buddhist monastery surrounded by quiet beauty.

Sunset & Evening Leisure

• Climb Phnom Bakheng for a stunning sunset view over Angkor’s treetops and temple spires.

• Enjoy the evening at leisure in Siem Reap—explore night markets, relax in local cafés, or dive into Pub Street’s vibrant atmosphere.

With another day of awe-inspiring discoveries behind us, we retire with memories of ancient grandeur and timeless beauty.

Breakfast, temple touring, lunch, overnight Siem Reap hotel    

Today marks the pinnacle of our journey as we experience the spiritual and architectural marvel that is Angkor Wat, followed by a relaxed afternoon exploring the vibrant soul of Siem Reap.

Morning: Angkor Wat – The Crown Jewel of Khmer Heritage

• Arrive at Angkor Wat at sunrise, when its lotus-shaped towers reflect magically in the surrounding moat.

• Built in the 12th century, this vast temple complex symbolizes Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods.

• Walk through sacred corridors adorned with the world’s longest bas-relief, depicting epic Hindu scenes like the Churning of the Ocean of Milk.

• Discover the harmony of scale, symmetry, and symbolism that defines Cambodia’s national pride and spiritual heart.

Afternoon: Siem Reap at Your Own Pace

• After lunch, enjoy free time to discover the city’s cultural and creative side:

  • Visit the Angkor National Museum for deeper insight into the Khmer Empire.

  • Browse local art galleries or explore the vibrant Old Market for last-minute treasures.

  • Hop on a Tuk-Tuk ride to experience the charm of Siem Reap’s buzzing streets and colonial quarters.

Evening: A Cultural Send-Off

• Enjoy a farewell evening tailored to your pace:

  • Explore the lively Angkor Night Market or wander down Pub Street for music, street food, and nightlife.

  • Or gather for a traditional Cambodian farewell dinner, reflecting on the beauty, culture, and connections made along the journey.

Breakfast, temple touring, lunch, overnight Siem Reap hotel   

As our extraordinary journey through Vietnam and Cambodia comes to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural treasures that have defined our adventure.

This morning, we bid a fond farewell to our fellow travelers and the wonderful tour hosts who have made this journey so memorable.

You will be met at your hotel by your Oriental Destination representative and transferred to Siem Reap Airport, where your journey home begins.

As you board your flight, may the spirit, beauty, and stories of Southeast Asia stay with you always.
Safe travels—and until we meet again!

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer