Suggested Cambodia And Vietnam Itinerary For 14-Day

The first 10 days in Vietnam

Let’s explore the Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary, starting in Vietnam:

Day 1: Hanoi Arrival

• Fly to Hanoi and check in at your hotel.

• The evening is yours to explore the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. You can choose to unwind at a night bar or venture to the famous "Beer Street," where you can savor local brews and street food delights.

9-day itinerary in Vietnam

Day 2: Hanoi - Halong Bay

• Upon your arrival in Halong Bay, savor a delicious lunch on board a cruise ship. 

• In the afternoon, let’s engage in a series of exciting activities. Kayak through the emerald waters, providing you with an up-close view of the bay's towering limestone karsts and hidden grottoes. 

• Visit Sung Sot Cave - one of the top impressive caves in Halong.

• Afterward, embark on a challenging climb to the summit of Titop Island, where you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Halong Bay. Cool off with a refreshing swim in the bay's clear waters.

• Delve in the sunset party with refreshing drinks and delicious snacks as you unwind by the end of the day in the sundeck on board.

Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi

Enjoy your 2-day 1-night unwinding time in Halong Bay

• Participating in a rejuvenating tai chi session on the cruise ship and then enjoying breakfast.

• Visit a pearl farm, a fishing village, and islets in the bay

• Kayak around the Drum cave

• Return to Hanoi in the afternoon and explore the city's markets and boutiques, where you can discover an array of unique souvenirs and local products.

Day 4: Hanoi City Tour - Night Train to Da Nang

• Begin your day at Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, situated on the picturesque West Lake. Marvel at its serene beauty and historical significance.

• Subsequently, pay a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which serves as a commemoration to the Vietnam former president. Here, you can delve into the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, explore Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House, and admire the One Pillar Pagoda.

The Mausoleum in Ho Chi Minh Complex

• Continue your cultural journey at the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first university and a symbol of Confucianism's enduring influence in the country. Admire the well-preserved architecture and tranquil courtyards.

• Take a cyclo ride through the lively thoroughfares of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter. This traditional means of transportation enables you to fully experience the visual, auditory, and olfactory sensations of this dynamic district, celebrated for its narrow lanes and bustling markets.

• Getting to Da Nang City in Central Vietnam by a night train with sleepers.

Day 5: Da Nang Arrival - Transfer to Hoi An

• You will arrive at Da Nang around noon.

• Continue traveling from Da Nang to Hoi An.

• Check-in and take your time to rest.

Day 6: Champa Ruins - My Son Relic - Hoi An Ancient Town

• Today, you will explore the fascinating remnants of the ancient Champa civilization at the Champa Ruins - My Son Relic. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the Champa people. Marvel at the intricately crafted temples and structures that have withstood the test of time.

• Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River as you depart from My Son to Hoi An.

Hoi An Ancient Town

• Hoi An is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and unique atmosphere. You will step back in time to explore its charming streets, historic old houses and shops, and vibrant markets.

Day 7: Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh Motorbike Night Tour

• Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and check in at your hotel. 

• In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of HCM City with a thrilling motorbike night tour. 

• Explore the city's illuminated streets and visit iconic landmarks such as Independence Palace, Chinatown, the night market, the Saigon River, and the bustling streets after dark.

Day 8: Mekong Delta tour - My Tho - Ben Tre

• Let’s delve into the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl" of Vietnam. 

• Your adventure begins with a visit to the Vinh Trang Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple adorned with intricate architecture and lush gardens.

• Along the journey, you will have the opportunity to marvel at stilt houses, witness thriving fruit plantations, catch a glimpse of the daily life in traditional fishing villages, and listen to Southern Vietnam folk music.

Vietnam Mekong Delta 

Day 9: Cai Rang Floating Market - Tra Su Forest

You will have a day with diverse experiences: 

• Beginning at the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market, a bustling hub of trade where locals navigate the waterways to sell their produce. Witness the lively and colorful spectacle of boats laden with fruits, vegetables, and various goods.

• Next, venture to the Tra Su Forest, a pristine and enchanting natural haven. Explore the tranquil waterways by boat as you immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the forest. Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.

• Having a boat ride through the splendid canals that wind their way through the forest.

​To complete your understanding, read our article on travel guide to Vietnam!

Day 10: Speedboat to Phnom Penh

• This trip on the Mekong River to Sisowath will take around 5 hours of traveling.

Next 4 days in Cambodia

Enjoy the remaining 10 days of your Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary in the country of Cambodia. Let’s see what we will have on the journey of day 11 to 14.

4-day itinerary in Cambodia

Day 11: Phnom Penh - City Tour - S21 - Killing Fields

Commence your journey of exploration in the capital city of Phnom Penh with visits to its iconic landmarks: 

• Independent Monument, an iconic symbol of Cambodia's sovereignty

• Discover the history of the Khmer Rouge regime at two significant sites - Cheung Ek, known as the Killing Fields, and the Tol Sleng Museum, a former prison-turned-museum.

• Take some time to explore and shop at the vibrant Russian Market.

Phnom Penh Royal Palace

• Visit the Royal Palace complex with the opulent Silver Pagoda

• Explore the National Museum, where Cambodia's rich history comes to life through its impressive collection.

• Finally, visit Wat Phnom temple, a serene sanctuary linked to the origin of the capital name Phnom Penh perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city to conclude the day tour.

Day 12: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap

• Take a 1-hour flight from the capital city of Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

• Check in at your hotel and enjoy your free time after landing.

Visit Angkor Wat Cambodia

Day 13: Angkor Wat Temple - Apsara Dance Show

• Venture to Angkor Thom, an ancient city that houses the magnificent Bayon Temple. Marvel at the enigmatic faces carved into stone, each seeming to gaze serenely in all directions. Explore the fascinating Ta Prohm Temple, famously known for being engulfed by massive tree roots, creating a mystical and photogenic atmosphere.

• As the day unfolds, continue your exploration of the sprawling temple complex, Angkor Wat, an ancient Khmer masterpiece once dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.

• In the evening, indulge in a traditional Khmer dinner and savor the flavors of Cambodia. Accompanying your meal is a captivating Apsara dance performance, where graceful dancers adorned in elaborate costumes narrate stories through intricate movements.

Cambodia Apsara Dance

Day 14: Siem Reap Departure

On the final day of your 2-week Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary, it is time to bid farewell. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to enjoy any last-minute exploration or shopping.

To continue this conversation, visit our article about travel guide to Cambodia!

Things to Know Before Travel

The two most crucial factors to consider before visiting Vietnam and Cambodia are the best time to visit and visa requirements. Let's explore these aspects in detail below.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia and Vietnam

Vietnam and Cambodia Travel Guide

The optimal time for traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia is from November to April the following year. Due to their geographical proximity, Vietnam and Cambodia share relatively similar climates. From November to April, both countries experience the dry season with cool, less rainy weather. This period also coincides with significant cultural festivals in both nations, such as Cambodia's Water Festival in November, Vietnamese Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) in February, and Khmer New Year in April.

It is worth noting that this aligns with the peak tourist season in both countries. The remaining months, from May to October, are characterized by hot and humid weather and a higher likelihood of heavy rainfall.

Visa Requirements

Visa policy to visit Vietnam and Cambodia

To cross the borders between Vietnam and Cambodia, travelers from most countries will need to secure a visa. These prerequisites can differ based on your nationality, so it's crucial to consult the nearest embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date details. Nonetheless, here are the general criteria for visa obligations:

Cambodia Tourist Visa:

Many international travelers have the option to acquire a visa upon arrival at airports or land borders, permitting a stay of up to 30 days. Alternatively, certain nationalities are eligible to request an e-visa prior to their arrival.

Citizens of Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, and Myanmar are not required to obtain a tourist visa and can enjoy stays of 21 and 30 days, respectively, in Cambodia.

Vietnam Tourist Visa:

According to the visa policy in effect from August 15, 2023, all nationalities have the option to either obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) for stays under 30 days or apply for an e-visa prior to arrival, allowing for stays of up to 90 days.

Vietnam also offers visa exemption for citizens of 25 countries, including all nations within the ASEAN bloc.

The cost of obtaining a tourist visa for Vietnam and Cambodia typically ranges from 25 to 30 USD for a single-entry visa and 50 USD for a multiple-entry visa. The processing time for visa approval for each country generally falls within the range of 5 to 10 days.

Tips to Enjoy Cambodia and Vietnam Trip

Tips for visitors to Cambodia and Vietnam

While adhering to your Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary, here are some handy pointers from New Asia Tours:

• Carefully plan your itinerary. Both Vietnam and Cambodia offer a plethora of attractions, so it is essential to decide on your must-see and must-do activities beforehand. This will help you maximize your time and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Make advance bookings for your flights and accommodations, particularly during peak seasons (November to April).

• Currency: In Cambodia, the use of USD for transactions is widespread. However, it is advisable to keep some Cambodian Riels on hand for small transactions. In Vietnam, you will need to exchange your currency for Vietnamese Dong (VND) for convenience during transactions in the country.

Vietnam Dong (VND)

• Familiarize yourself with basic phrases in Vietnamese and Khmer: This will facilitate communication with locals and ease your navigation. It also adds a delightful local touch to your journey. Here are some of our suggestions:

• Transfer: The most cost-effective means of transportation between Vietnam and Cambodia is typically by bus or boat. While domestic flights are available, they can be relatively expensive. Refer to the table below for travel options between the two countries:

Traveling in the Mekong River to Cambodia and Vietnam

• Bargaining is common in markets in Vietnam and Cambodia.

• Essential items to bring when traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia include a water bottle (given the hot and humid climate in both countries, staying hydrated is vital), mosquito repellent, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing, and appropriate footwear.

• It is crucial to store and safeguard your belongings and important personal information carefully. Consider purchasing travel insurance to ensure your safety during the time of travel.

Here is the 14-day Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary that New Asia Tours recommends, along with some useful notes. We offer a variety of reasonably priced tour schedules on our website for you to explore. Feel free to browse our Vietnam and Cambodia package tour, and get in touch with us if you need any assistance. Happy travels!