The Great Signature Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days Tour

Welcome to Vietnam! Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, your incredible Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days journey officially begins. Our friendly representative will be waiting for you at the arrival hall to provide a private transfer to your boutique hotel, located in the vibrant heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Once you have checked in and refreshed, you will meet up with your travel crew and tour leader. This is the perfect time to soak in the electric energy of Hanoi’s narrow streets, sample your first bowl of authentic Pho, and get excited for the bucket-list adventures to come. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, the first night of this 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia tour sets the stage for a truly unforgettable Southeast Asian discovery.

• Meal: N/A (Meals on your own)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Morning: Journey to the Emerald Bay

Your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia adventure moves from the bustling streets of the capital to the serene waters of the Gulf of Tonkin. At 9:00 AM, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the Hanoi Old Quarter for a comfortable 2.5-hour drive via the national highway. As you traverse the Red River Delta, enjoy views of traditional villages and lush rice fields before arriving at the harbor at noon.

Afternoon: Caves, Kayaking, and Hidden Lagoons

At 12:30 PM , step aboard your luxury 5-star vessel and enjoy a warm welcome with fresh drinks and cold towels. As you begin in the Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day Travel, your sail into Lan Ha Bay—often called the “quieter sibling” of Halong Bay—a special lunch will be served in the panoramic restaurant.

By 3:30 PM, we reach the Dark and Bright Cave area, a stunning karst system where you can choose your own adventure. Either paddle a kayak through the narrow stone arches or sit back on a traditional bamboo boat rowed by locals to reach a secluded, jungle-clad lagoon. Afterward, immerse yourself in the emerald waters for a swim or relax in the cruise’s on-deck jacuzzi pool as the limestone karsts drift by.

Evening: Sunset Elegance and Starlight

At 5:30 PM, return to the sundeck for a vibrant sunset party. This “golden hour” is the perfect time for photography and enjoying cocktails against the backdrop of the bay’s silhouette. Following a romantic gourmet dinner at 7:30 PM, the night is yours. Experience the tranquility of the bay from the top deck, try your hand at squid fishing, or simply retreat to your private balcony to enjoy the starlit seascape—a signature highlight of our Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days package.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Overnight on 5* Luxury Cruise

Morning: Gold on the Water

In Day 3 of your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia, wake up to the gentle rocking of the waves as the sun rises over the limestone peaks of the bay. This is one of the most tranquil moments of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day journey. For those who wish to start the day with energy, a Tai Chi session is often held on the sundeck at dawn.

As the vessel begins its leisurely cruise back toward the harbor, a light breakfast will be served. Take this time to enjoy the final views of the labyrinthine karst formations from the lounge or your private balcony. Before disembarking, an early lunch (or brunch) will be prepared, allowing you to savor one last meal on the water.

Afternoon: Return to the Capital

You will arrive back at the port around noon and board your transfer for the return journey to Hanoi. By mid-afternoon, you’ll be back in the heart of the city and checked into your hotel.

The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you want to hunt for street food gems in the Old Quarter, visit the historic Temple of Literature, or simply relax at a lakeside café, this free time allows you to truly immerse yourself in the local rhythm before the next phase of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days adventure begins.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Morning: Journey to the Tonkinese Alps

At 7:00 AM, your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia adventure heads north. You will be picked up from your hotel for a scenic drive toward the misty mountains of Sapa. As the landscape shifts from the flat plains of the Red River Delta to the dramatic, winding passes of the Hoang Lien Son range, you will witness some of the most spectacular scenery in Northern Vietnam. We arrive in the charming town of Sapa around lunchtime, just in time to check into your hotel and enjoy a hearty local meal.

Afternoon: Cultural Trek to Cat Cat Village

In the afternoon of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days trip, we dive into the heart of the region’s ethnic heritage with a visit to Cat Cat Village, home to the Black H’mong people. This light trek takes you through terraced rice fields and past rushing waterfalls. While exploring the village, you can observe traditional weaving techniques, perhaps purchasing a vibrant hand-woven blanket as a keepsake of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day trip. Don’t miss the chance to try a sip of the famous local apple wine (ruou tao meo), a specialty of the highland tribes.

Evening: Misty Sapa at Leisure

After the trek, you will have some free time to explore Sapa town. You might choose to visit the stone church, wander through the colorful local market, or enjoy a coffee overlooking the clouds in the Muong Hoa Valley. The evening is yours to relax, recover from the trek, and soak in the cool mountain air.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

• Accommodation: Hotel in Sapa

Morning: Trekking Through the Terraced Heartlands

Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. At 9:30 AM, the next chapter of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day journey begins as you set out for a trek to Y Linh Ho village. This route offers some of the most iconic views in Southeast Asia, leading you through cascading rice terraces that cling to the mountainsides.

As you walk along the winding Muong Hoa Stream, you will reach the Black Hmong village of Lao Chai. Here, the spectacular landscape of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain range unfolds before you. To ensure this remains the Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour experience, you will enjoy a scenic picnic lunch in Lao Chai, surrounded by the peaceful rhythm of highland life.

Afternoon: Ethnic Culture and the Return to Hanoi

After lunch, we continue our trek to Ta Van village, the home of the Dzay ethnic people. Exploring this village provides a fascinating insight into the diverse cultures and colorful costumes of the northern tribes.

Following your Vietnam Cambodia Private Tour exploration, a private vehicle will pick you up and transfer you back to Sapa town. You will have time for a quick, refreshing shower at the hotel before getting ready for the return journey. At approximately 4:00 PM, we depart the mountains for Hanoi, arriving back in the capital at 9:30 PM. Check back into your hotel for a restful night after an invigorating day in the Alps of the North.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Morning: A Gourmet Journey Through the Old Quarter

They say the best way to touch the soul of a city is through its flavors. Today, your Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour experience takes you deep into the labyrinthine streets of Hanoi for a world-class culinary adventure.

At 11:30 AM, your local food expert will meet you at your hotel to begin a walking tour of the Old Quarter. You will navigate hidden alleys and bustling corners to visit legendary food stands and family-run eateries where secret recipes have been guarded for generations. Over the course of the afternoon, you will sample approximately 10 different dishes.

From the aromatic broth of the world-famous Pho and the crispy perfection of Banh Xeo (rice pancakes) to the savory crunch of a traditional Banh Mi and smoky Bun Cha (grilled pork), your palate will explore the full spectrum of Hanoian cuisine. We’ll finish with unique local desserts and perhaps a famous “Egg Coffee,” all while observing the vibrant daily life of this thousand-year-old city. This is best time to enjoy delicious food in your Vietnam Cambodia Private Tour.

Afternoon: Heading South to the Pearl of the Far East

After satisfying your appetite in this Vietnam Cambodia Private Tour, you will be transferred to Noi Bai Airport for your domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). This transition is a key part of your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day itinerary, moving from the traditional elegance of the north to the modern energy of the south.

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, your private driver will be waiting in the arrival hall to escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Enjoy your first evening in Saigon by exploring the rooftop bars or the lively Ben Thanh night market.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Street Food Tour)

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you are looking for last-minute souvenirs or want to dive deeper into the local culture, this free day is a perfect pause in your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia journey.

Suggested Discovery Activities:

• Historical Landmarks: Stroll to the Saigon Central Post Office to admire its French colonial architecture or visit the War Remnants Museum for a moving look into the country’s past.

• The Cafe Apartment: Visit 42 Nguyen Hue, an old apartment building transformed into a vertical maze of trendy boutiques and hidden cafes overlooking the pedestrian walking street.

• Hidden Gems: Find peace at the Jade Emperor Pagoda or explore the vibrant murals and bookshops along Nguyen Van Binh Book Street.

Top Shopping Spots:

• Ben Thanh Market: The ultimate spot for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local coffee. Be sure to try your hand at friendly bargaining!

• Saigon Square & Taka Plaza: Air-conditioned havens perfect for high-quality fashion and accessories at wholesale prices.

• Dong Khoi Street: For those seeking high-end silk, lacquerware, and boutique art galleries, this is the most elegant shopping street in the city.

Enjoy your final evening in Vietnam by soaking in the neon-lit energy of Bui Vien Street or relaxing at a rooftop bar with a panoramic view of the skyline. Rest well, as tomorrow your Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour takes you across the border to the ancient wonders of Siem Reap.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Morning: Farewell to Vietnam

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in the bustling heart of Saigon. At the scheduled time, you will be met in the lobby by your private driver for a comfortable transfer to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN). Your short, 1-hour direct flight will take you across the border into Cambodia, marking a thrilling new chapter in your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days adventure.

Afternoon: Welcome to the New Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI)

Upon landing at the modern Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) and clearing customs and immigration, please proceed to the exit gate. Look for your professional driver, who will be waiting for you in the arrival hall holding a clear signboard with your name on it.

The journey to the city center takes approximately 60 minutes via the new expressway, offering your first glimpses of the beautiful Cambodian countryside. After assisting you with check-in at your boutique hotel, your driver will leave you to settle in.

Evening: Siem Reap at Your Leisure

The rest of the day is yours to unwind. To experience the Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour vibes, we recommend:

• Relaxing by the hotel pool to recharge for tomorrow’s temple exploration.

• Taking a short Tuk-Tuk ride into town to explore the colorful Old Market (Phsar Chas).

• Enjoying a tropical cocktail or local Khmer BBQ on the world-famous Pub Street.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Morning: The Walled Kingdom of Angkor Thom

Your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia adventure reaches its architectural peak today. At 8:00 AM, meet your private guide in the lobby to begin your journey at the South Gate of Angkor Thom. This monumental entryway is famous for its causeway flanked by 54 gods and 54 demons, and its 20-meter tower adorned with the colossal four-faced Avalokiteshvara.

At the heart of this ancient city lies the Bayon Temple, an enigmatic masterpiece featuring over 200 serene, smiling stone faces. Your guide will lead you through the Royal Enclosure, the celestial pyramid of Phimeanakas, and the grand Elephant Terrace, where Khmer kings once viewed their victorious armies. You will also explore the Terrace of the Leper King, renowned for its deep, intricate carvings of deities and underworld beings.

Midday: The Majesty of Angkor Wat

Next, we visit the legendary Angkor Wat – The next place to visit in Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days travel, the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992. As the centerpiece of the Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour, this 12th-century marvel spans 210 hectares and represents the cosmic Mount Meru. You will stroll through its vast galleries, admiring miles of exquisite bas-reliefs, and walk past the famous reflecting ponds that offer the iconic “mirror image” of the five lotus-shaped towers—the ultimate photo opportunity for your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day trip.

Afternoon: Ta Prohm – The “Tomb Raider” Temple

We conclude the day at Ta Prohm, the atmospheric “Jungle Temple.” Unlike other sites, Ta Prohm was left largely as it was found: swallowed by the jungle. Enormous silk-cotton trees and strangler figs have grown over and through the stone foundations, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene of nature reclaiming man’s creation. It is here that you will truly feel the ancient mystery that makes this the Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to relax and reflect on the day’s incredible discoveries.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Morning: Exploration of the Great Lake

At 9:00 AM, your Vietnam Cambodia Private Tour continues as we head 30 minutes south of the city to Chong Kneas, a fascinating village on the edge of Tonle Sap Lake. The drive offers a scenic look at the outskirts of Siem Reap, passing lush rice paddies and the hilltop temple of Phnom Krom.

Upon arrival at the pier, you will embark on a private sheltered boat to explore the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. This “Great Lake” is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a true ecological marvel. As you cruise through the floating community, you will witness a way of life entirely dictated by the water, passing floating schools, markets, and mobile homes. Your guide will share insights into this unique ecosystem and the resilient fishing communities that call it home. We will make a brief stop at a floating farm and souvenir center for a closer look at local aquatic resources.

Midday: Authentic Khmer Cuisine

We return to Siem Reap city for a well-deserved Khmer set lunch at a specially selected local restaurant, allowing you to savor the subtle spices and fresh ingredients that define Cambodian gastronomy.

Afternoon: Artisans, Markets, and Royal Gardens

Your afternoon is dedicated to the living arts of the Khmer people. We start with a guided tour of Artisans Angkor, a premier center for stone and wood carving. Here, you can watch skilled craftsmen revive ancient Angkorian techniques to create high-quality silk, lacquerware, and sculptures—perfect souvenirs for your Best Vietnam Cambodia Tour.

Next, we stroll through the Old Market (Phsar Chas). Immerse yourself in the daily trade and try your hand at bargaining for local paintings, traditional crafts, or spices. We conclude our guided exploration with a peaceful walk through the Royal Residence Gardens, a lush park known for its giant fruit bats and ancient spirit shrines.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap

Morning: Final Moments in the Kingdom of Wonder

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, savoring the flavors of Vietnam Cambodia 12 Day one last time. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time this morning for a few last-minute activities. We recommend:

• A final stroll through the Old Market to pick up unique spices or handcrafted textiles.

• A relaxing Khmer foot massage to prepare for your long flight home.

• One last coffee by the Siem Reap River, reflecting on the incredible memories made during your 12 Day Vietnam Cambodia adventure.

Afternoon: Private Transfer to the Airport

At the designated time, your private driver will meet you in the hotel lobby for your transfer to the new Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI). The journey takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes via the new expressway, so please ensure you are ready for pick-up at least 3 hours before your flight departure.

As you check in for your onward flight, your Vietnam Cambodia 12 Days tour officially comes to a close. Though you are leaving Southeast Asia, the stories of the smiling faces of Bayon, the emerald waters of Lan Ha Bay, and the vibrant streets of Saigon will stay with you forever.

• Meals: Breakfast

• Check-out Time: 12:00 PM