Vietnam and Cambodia are two fascinating travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Both countries have rich histories, unique cultures, and breathtaking scenery. While spending more time exploring each country individually is recommended, it's still possible to experience the best of both worlds in just two weeks.
This post will provide a suggested itinerary, transportation options, accommodations, activities, and food tips to help you plan your
tours of Vietnam and Cambodia.
Vietnam and Cambodia tour itinerary
Day 1-2: Hanoi, Vietnam
Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Day 5-6: Hoi An, Vietnam
Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Day 9-10: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Day 11-12: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Day 13-14: Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Day 1-2: Hanoi, Vietnam
Start your journey in the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. Spend a day exploring the old quarter, and visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Hoan Kiem Lake.
On day two, take a day trip to Ninh Binh, also known as the "Halong Bay on Land," and witness the stunning landscape of rice paddies, limestone karsts, and river valleys.
Day 3-4: Halong Bay, Vietnam
From Hanoi, take a 3-hour drive to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters, limestone cliffs, and floating villages.
Spend two days cruising around the bay, visiting caves, swimming, and kayaking. Overnight on the boat to experience the serene beauty of the bay at night.
Day 5-6: Hoi An, Vietnam
Fly from Ha Long Bay to Da Nang, then drive to Hoi An, a charming town famous for its lanterns, ancient temples, and beautiful beaches. Explore the old town, visit the Japanese-covered Bridge, and take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Day 7-8: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, and spend two days exploring the bustling city. Visit the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and the Ben Thanh Market.
Take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War.
Day 9-10: Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Cross the border from Vietnam to Cambodia and arrive in Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia. Visit the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and the Killing Fields to learn about Cambodia's tragic history during the Khmer Rouge regime. Take a sunset boat cruise on the Mekong River and enjoy the city skyline from the water.
Day 11-12: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Fly from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor temples, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Spend two days exploring the ancient temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Bayon. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset views over the temples.
Day 13-14: Sihanoukville, Cambodia
From Siem Reap, take a flight to Sihanoukville, a coastal city famous for its beaches, islands, and seafood. Spend two days relaxing on the beach, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the local cuisine. Take a day trip to the nearby islands for a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Tips for Vietnam and Cambodia tours
Transportation
Getting around Vietnam and Cambodia can be done by buses, trains, flights, and taxis. Booking transportation in advance is recommended to save time and money. Buses are the most popular mode of transportation, with several bus companies operating on various routes.
Trains are also an option, with sleeper trains available for overnight journeys. Flights are the quickest way to get from one city to another, but they can be expensive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available in the cities.
Accommodations
Vietnam and Cambodia offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Hostels are popular for backpackers, with dorm rooms and private rooms available. Hotels and resorts offer more comfort and amenities but can be more expensive. Homestays and guesthouses provide a more authentic and cultural experience, with locals opening their homes to guests.
Activities
Vietnam and Cambodia offer a variety of activities to suit all interests. In Vietnam, take a street food tour, go on a motorbike tour, or attend a water puppet show. In Cambodia, take a cooking class, visit a floating village, or ride a bamboo train.
The temples of Angkor are a must-see attraction in Cambodia, and exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels is a fascinating experience in Vietnam.
Food
Vietnamese and Cambodian cuisine is a fusion of French, Chinese, and Southeast Asian influences, strongly emphasizing fresh herbs, spices, and seafood. Must-try dishes in Vietnam include pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
In Cambodia, try amok, a traditional fish curry, and lok lak, a beef stir-fry with rice. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in both countries.
In conclusion, traveling to Vietnam and Cambodia in two weeks is a great way to experience the best of both countries. With careful planning, exploring the major destinations, trying the local cuisine, and learning about the history and culture is possible.
Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Vietnam and Cambodia offer something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Indochina tour!
