Discovery Amazing Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days Trip

Welcome to the start of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days adventure! Upon your arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, a professional driver will be waiting for you at the pickup lobby. Enjoy a comfortable 45-minute scenic drive into the heart of the city, specifically the historic Hanoi Old Quarter. Your driver will escort you to your hotel for check-in. Once settled, the rest of the day is yours to relax and recover from your flight as you begin your incredible Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day journey.

• Note: Standard hotel check-in time begins at 14:00.

• Meal: N/A

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Continue your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days itinerary with your choice of two immersive experiences in the capital city.

Option 1: Hanoi City Tour (Morning)

Embark on a guided journey to explore the landmarks that define Hanoi. Your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day adventure begins at the Ho Chi Minh Complex, featuring the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, his humble stilt house, and the elegant Presidential Palace. Afterward, visit the iconic One Pillar Pagoda, a stunning architectural feat designed to resemble a blooming lotus.

The tour continues to the serene West Lake area to visit the historic Quan Thanh Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda. Depending on your interests, you may also visit the Temple of Literature or choose between the Museum of Ethnology and the Vietnam Military History Museum for deeper cultural insights. Finally, end the morning with a visit to Ngoc Son Temple, situated on a peaceful island within Hoan Kiem Lake.

Option 2: Hanoi Street Food Tour

Experience the “soul” of the city through its culinary traditions.

• Morning/Lunch Departure: Pick up at 11:30 AM

• Evening Departure: Pick up at 18:00 (6:00 PM)

Meet your expert guide at your hotel for a walking tour through the bustling Old Quarter. As part of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days experience, you will sample “Hanoi-style fast foods”—famous dishes loved by locals. Your guide will share stories about the historical background of northern cuisine and the unique ingredients that make Vietnamese food world-renowned. This is a must-do for food lovers on a Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day trip!

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Prepare for an unforgettable journey through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, a centerpiece of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day tour.

• 08:30 AM: Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter. Enjoy a scenic three-hour drive through the Red River Delta, passing local communities and lush rice paddies.

• Mid-morning: Take a short break for refreshments before continuing to the harbor.

• 12:00 PM: Arrive at the wharf and receive a warm welcome at the cruise reception.

• 12:30 PM: Board your vessel for a safety briefing and check-in.

• 13:00 PM: As the cruise begins, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch featuring authentic Vietnamese flavors. You will sail past iconic landmarks such as Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, and Fighting Cock Islet.

• Afternoon Exploration: * Visit the Tung Sau area to witness the traditional process of pearl farming. Here, you have the option to explore the bay’s hidden corners by kayak.

  • Continue to Titov Island. You can choose to swim at the sandy beach (weather permitting) or hike up the steps to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of Halong Bay.

• Late Afternoon: Return to the boat and cruise toward the Luon Bo area to anchor for the night.

• 18:30 PM: Head to the sundeck for a Vietnamese cooking class to learn the art of making spring rolls. Enjoy “Happy Hour” drinks while watching a magnificent sunset over the karst landscape.

• Dinner: Indulge in a Deluxe Vietnamese BBQ Set Menu.

• Evening: Relax on the deck, enjoy music, play games, or join the crew for some squid fishing before retiring to your cabin.

An overnight cruise is truly the best way to experience the magic of Halong Bay during your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days trip.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Overnight on Cruise

Wake up to the tranquil beauty of the bay as you continue your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days journey.

• 06:30 AM: Start your morning with a refreshing Tai Chi session on the sundeck. This gentle exercise, combining relaxation with slow, fluid movements, is the perfect way to energize for the day ahead.

• Breakfast: Enjoy a light breakfast in the dining area, surrounded by stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters.

• Sung Sot Cave: Take a tender boat to visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave), the largest and most beautiful cave in Halong Bay. After climbing approximately 100 stone steps, you will be rewarded with an expansive cavern filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

• Check-out: Return to the cruise ship to check out of your cabin and settle any outstanding bills at the front desk.

• Brunch on Board: As the boat cruises back toward Tuan Chau Wharf, savor a delicious farewell buffet lunch while soaking in the final views of this World Heritage site.

• 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Disembark at the harbor, where your professional driver will be waiting.

• Return to Hanoi: Relax on the return drive to the capital, with a short break included along the way. Upon arriving back in the city, check back into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.

This relaxing return marks the end of your cruise segment but only the beginning of your incredible Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Brunch)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

On the fifth day of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days itinerary, you will travel south to Ninh Binh, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic limestone landscapes.

• 07:45 AM: After breakfast, your private car will pick you up from your hotel for the journey to Ninh Binh.

• 10:25 AM: Arrive at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the political center of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. Alongside your expert guide, explore the historic temples dedicated to the Dinh and Le Dynasties, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains.

• 12:30 PM: Savor a delicious buffet lunch at a local restaurant in Tam Coc, featuring regional specialties like goat meat and crispy rice.

• 13:35 PM: Experience the highlight of this 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour: the Tam Coc Boat Trip. Relax as local rowers skillfully use their feet to glide your sampan through the Ngo Dong River, passing through the three enchanting grottos: Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba.

• 15:50 PM: Enjoy a peaceful 30-45 minute cycling tour through the rural villages of Tam Coc. If you visit during the harvest season, you will be surrounded by a sea of golden rice fields.

• 17:00 PM: Reach Mua Cave, nicknamed the “Great Wall of China” in Vietnam. Challenge yourself to climb nearly 500 stone steps to the Lying Dragon peak for a spectacular panoramic view of the Tam Coc valley.

• 17:55 PM: Board your private car for a relaxing return journey to Hanoi.

This deep dive into northern Vietnam’s history and nature is a true standout of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Enjoy a leisurely day in the capital before embarking on a classic Vietnamese rail experience, a memorable highlight of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days adventure.

• Morning & Afternoon: After breakfast at your hotel, the day is yours to explore Hanoi at your own pace. You might choose to wander through the hidden alleys of the Old Quarter, visit a local café for a famous “Egg Coffee,” or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

• 18:00 PM: Your driver will meet you at your hotel for a private transfer to the Hanoi Railway Station.

• Evening: Board the overnight train bound for the former imperial capital, Hue. To ensure a comfortable Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day journey, we recommend preparing some light snacks, your favorite drinks, and personal tissues for the trip.

• Overnight: You will spend the night on the train in a shared 4-berth soft sleeper cabin, allowing you to rest as you travel south through the Vietnamese countryside.

Watching the landscape change from the window of a train is a quintessentially local way to experience our 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Overnight on the train (4-berth soft sleeper cabin)

Welcome to the former Imperial Capital! This cultural hub is a key highlight of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days itinerary.

• 09:00 AM: Upon your arrival at the Hue Railway Station, you will be met by our driver and transferred directly to your hotel.

• Check-in & Relax: After your overnight rail journey, take this time to settle in and freshen up. While standard check-in is typically in the afternoon, you can relax at the hotel or begin your initial exploration of the city.

• Leisure Time: The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. As part of your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour, Hue offers a slower pace of life. You might choose to stroll along the Perfume River, visit the vibrant Dong Ba Market, or sample Hue’s famous “Royal Cuisine” at a local restaurant.

Enjoying a peaceful afternoon in this historic city is the perfect way to recharge during your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day adventure.

• Meals: Breakfast (on the train or at the hotel)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hue

On Day 8 of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days journey, you will step back in time to explore the grand history of Vietnam’s last royal family.

• 08:00 AM: Your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin a full day of discovery in the former capital.

• The Imperial Citadel: Dive deep into the past at the Hue Citadel, the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. While the complex was heavily affected by the Vietnamese-American War, you can still witness the surviving grandeur of the Forbidden Purple City. Your guide will help you visualize the royal life that flourished here hundreds of years ago.

• A Tale of Two Tombs: Next, explore the final resting places of two very different emperors:

  • Tu Duc Tomb: Built between 1864 and 1867, this tomb is a masterpiece of rustic architecture and serene landscapes, featuring a large lake and pine-covered hills.

  • Khai Dinh Tomb: In contrast, this tomb is a unique architectural hybrid, blending traditional Vietnamese elements with elaborate European influences for a striking, modern aesthetic.

• Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Hue-style lunch at a local restaurant, an essential part of any 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

Comparing these magnificent monuments provides a profound understanding of Vietnam’s transition into the modern era during your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hue City

Today, your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days journey continues as we head south to the “Land of Lanterns”—Hoi An.

• Morning Departure: Enjoy a comfortable 3-hour journey in a private car. This route is one of the most beautiful drives in the country, offering a perfect snapshot of the diverse landscapes included in your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Arrival in Hoi An: Upon arrival, you will immediately feel the captivating charm and peaceful ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage riverside town.

• A Glimpse into the Past: Once a major international trading port between the 16th and 18th centuries, Hoi An was a melting pot of cultures. Traders from China, Japan, France, Portugal, and beyond came here for the region’s exquisite silk—a tradition that continues to flourish today.

• Leisure & Exploration: Today, Hoi An is a beloved destination famous for its unique blend of architectural styles, world-class merchant tailors, and cozy riverside cafes. Spend your afternoon wandering through the mustard-yellow alleys or relaxing at a local tea house.

Soaking up the cultural richness of Hoi An is a highlight of any Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Immerse yourself in the rustic charm of rural Vietnam on Day 10 of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days adventure. Today is dedicated to exploring the hidden gems surrounding Hoi An by bike and boat.

• 08:00 AM: Meet your guide at the hotel and start your cycling journey toward the Hoi An pier. Board a local ferry to cross the Thu Bon River to reach the famous wood-carving village of Kim Bong. Here, you can admire the incredible skill of local artisans and see intricate woodwork being crafted by hand—a perfect stop to pick up a unique souvenir for your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Scenic Cycling to Tra Nhieu: Continue pedaling through picturesque trails, over bamboo bridges, and past lush rice paddies to reach Tra Nhieu village. You will have the chance to meet local families specializing in traditional mat weaving and bamboo basket making. Visit Mr. Huynh Ri’s shipyard to see the impressive scale of local boat-building.

• River Cruise & Cam Thanh Village: Board a boat for a relaxing trip along the river to Cam Thanh village. Enjoy the view of local fishing farms and water coconut forests. Once there, hop into a traditional bamboo basket boat to try your hand at crab catching in the serene waterways.

• Relaxation & Local Flavors: Unwind at a local fisherman’s home with a cup of herbal green tea and a soothing foot massage using medicinal herbs. Afterward, participate in a hands-on cooking session. Using fresh ingredients from Tra Que vegetable village, you will learn to make local specialties like crispy pancakes (Banh Xeo), spring rolls, and grilled fish in banana leaves.

• Afternoon: After enjoying the delicious lunch you helped prepare, cycle back to your hotel to relax and reflect on a day of true cultural immersion.

This deep dive into the local way of life is a standout memory of any Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hoi An

Today marks an exciting transition in your Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 18 days. You will leave the peaceful charm of Central Vietnam behind and fly to the energetic southern hub of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon).

• Morning Leisure: Enjoy your final breakfast in Hoi An and some last-minute free time. Whether you choose to have a final stroll through the ancient streets or a quick visit to a local tailor, this is your time to relax and reflect on the first half of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day journey.

• Flight to Ho Chi Minh City: At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to Da Nang International Airport for your short flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Welcome to Saigon: Upon landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, look for our professional driver at the arrival lobby. They will escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city, providing a smooth start to this new chapter of your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Check-in: Once you arrive at the hotel, settle into your room and take a moment to unwind before diving into the city’s bustling atmosphere.

• Note: Please keep in mind that standard hotel check-in time is at 14:00.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

On Day 12 of your Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 18 days, you will leave the bustle of the city behind to explore one of the most iconic historical sites in Southeast Asia and a unique local religion.

• 08:00 AM: Your guide and driver will pick you up to begin an extraordinary journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a site that stands as a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

• Underground City of Cu Chi: Discover a vast network of tunnels stretching over 250km. These tunnels served as an underground city for the Viet Cong, complete with living quarters, kitchens, and hospitals. As a highlight of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience, you will have the opportunity to crawl through sections of the tunnels and visit the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple, a poignant site built to honor those who fought here.

• The Sacred Cao Dai Temple: Continue your journey to the colorful and awe-inspiring Cao Dai Temple. Caodaism is a fascinating, homegrown religion that blends the philosophies of Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and even elements of Christianity. If timing permits, you will witness the midday mass—a mesmerizing ceremony filled with chanting and vibrant traditional robes.

• Local Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the city.

Reflecting on these deep historical and spiritual insights is a truly enriching part of this 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

On the thirteenth day of your Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 18 days, you will travel to the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam” to experience the vibrant water-world of the Mekong Delta.

• Departure from Saigon: After breakfast, meet your expert guide and driver for a scenic journey to Cai Be. Leaving the city behind, you will watch the landscape transform into lush greenery and winding waterways.

• Mekong River Boat Trip: Upon arrival, board a private boat to navigate the legendary Mekong River. Glide through picturesque canals shaded by fruit orchards and witness the unique rhythm of river life that makes a Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day trip so special.

• Local Craft Workshops: Step ashore to visit traditional family-run workshops. Here, you can watch the fascinating process of making coconut caramel, rice popcorn, and crispy rice cakes—and even sample some while they are still warm!

• Biking & Culture: Embark on a gentle cycling or walking excursion along peaceful village paths. Visit the ancient Phu Chau Pagoda, a serene hidden gem where you can admire traditional architecture and interact with the welcoming local community.

• Culinary Delights: Savor a traditional Mekong lunch at an open-air garden restaurant. You will have the chance to try the region’s most famous delicacy: Elephant Ear Fish, served crispy and wrapped in fresh rice paper with herbs.

• Rowboat Experience: Conclude your afternoon by drifting through narrow, palm-fringed canals on a small hand-rowed sampan, enjoying the quiet beauty of the delta before returning to Saigon.

This immersive day in the countryside is a highlight of any 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today, your Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 18 days takes you across the border as you travel from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the historic capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh.

• 08:00 AM: After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the bus station.

• The Journey West: Embark on a comfortable 6-hour coach journey toward the Cambodian border. This route offers a unique window into the changing landscapes between the two countries.

  • Note: There will be a scheduled stop at the Moc Bai/Bavet border for visa processing. Our team will assist in making this transition as smooth as possible for your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day adventure.

• Travel Upgrade Option: If you prefer a faster journey, you have the option to upgrade to a short flight from Saigon to Phnom Penh. Please contact us directly for more information and pricing.

• Arrival in Phnom Penh: Upon arriving in the Cambodian capital, our local team will welcome you and escort you to your hotel for check-in.

• Leisure Time: The rest of the afternoon is yours to unwind. You might choose to take a sunset stroll along the Sisowath Quay riverside or enjoy your first taste of Khmer cuisine at a local café.

Crossing into Cambodia marks a fascinating new chapter in your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Meal: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

On Day 15 of your Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 18 days, you will delve into the complex history and vibrant local life of Cambodia’s capital.

• 08:00 AM – A Journey Through History: Begin the morning with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the “Killing Fields” of Choeung Ek. These sites are essential for gaining a profound understanding of the Khmer Rouge era. While the history is somber, these visits offer a deeply moving perspective on the resilience of the Cambodian people—a significant cultural experience on your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day trip.

• Lunch: Savor a delicious lunch featuring traditional Khmer flavors at a local restaurant.

• The Russian Market: In the afternoon, explore Psar Toul Tom Pong, famously known as the “Russian Market.” This bustling hub is perfect for travelers on an 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour looking for unique handicrafts, local textiles, and authentic street food.

• Mekong River Cruise: Conclude your day with a relaxing one-hour boat cruise at sunset. As you glide along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, you will see the city skyline from a different perspective and witness the beauty of the river that connects these two incredible nations.

This day offers a balance of deep reflection and the peaceful charm of modern Phnom Penh.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Phnom Penh

Today, your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days journey continues north to Siem Reap, the vibrant gateway to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park.

• The Journey to Siem Reap: After breakfast, you will board the Mekong Express, Cambodia’s most reputable coach service. This 6-hour journey takes you through the heart of the Cambodian countryside, passing through rural villages and scenic landscapes that define an 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Travel Upgrade Option: For those who prefer more time for exploration, we offer an optional flight upgrade from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. This short 45-minute flight allows you to arrive in the city earlier. Please contact us directly for flight availability and pricing.

• Arrival & Leisure: Upon arriving in Siem Reap, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After checking in, take the rest of the day to relax or explore at your own pace. You might consider visiting the lively Pub Street or the Night Market to experience the town’s evening energy as you prepare for the final days of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience.

• Meal: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

The penultimate day of your Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days adventure is dedicated to the crown jewel of Khmer architecture: the world-renowned Angkor Archaeological Park.

• Angkor Thom – The Great City: After breakfast, we begin our exploration at the South Gate of Angkor Thom. You will visit the mesmerizing Bayon Temple, famous for its hundreds of giant stone faces. Your guided tour continues through the historic heart of the city, including Baphuon Temple, Phimean Akas, and the grand Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King. You will also see the ancient Royal Palace grounds and the sacred Man and Woman Ponds.

• Ta Prohm – The Jungle Temple: Next, we journey to Ta Prohm, the iconic “Tomb Raider” temple. Left largely as it was discovered, this site features ancient stone structures entwined with the massive roots of banyan and silk-cotton trees—a favorite moment for many on our 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Angkor Wat – An Architectural Masterpiece: After a well-deserved lunch, we dedicate the afternoon to the magnificent Angkor Wat. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the seven architectural wonders of the world. You will marvel at its incredible scale, symmetrical design, and the intricate bas-reliefs that tell the story of a lost empire.

• 16:30 PM: Return to your hotel after a full day of discovery, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Exploring these ancient ruins is the ultimate highlight of your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day journey.

• Meal: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Today brings your incredible Vietnam and Cambodia 18 Days journey to a close. After a final breakfast at your hotel, the morning is yours to enjoy as you wish.

• Final Moments in Siem Reap: Use this free time to soak up the unique atmosphere of Cambodia one last time. You might choose to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Old Market (Psar Chaa), enjoy a final Khmer coffee by the riverside, or simply relax at your hotel reflecting on your 18 Day Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

• Departure Transfer: At the scheduled time, our team will meet you at your hotel for a private transfer to the Siem Reap International Airport for your flight home or to your next destination.

As your Vietnam Cambodia 18 Day experience concludes, we bid you a fond farewell. We hope the memories of ancient temples, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes stay with you forever. Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner, and we wish you a safe and pleasant journey!

• Meal: Breakfast

• Accommodation: N/A (End of Service)