If you’re seeking a journey that goes beyond typical sightseeing, one that immerses you in the vibrant soul of Southeast Asia, then this 15-day adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia is made for you.
From breathtaking natural landscapes to centuries-old cultural treasures, each destination along the way offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indochinese heritage.
This isn’t just a vacation, it’s a deeply enriching experience where you’ll connect with history, flavor, and the timeless beauty of two extraordinary countries.
Contents
Why Choose a 15-Day Vietnam-Cambodia Tour?
An ideal escape to uncover the spirit of Indochina
Vietnam and Cambodia – rich in history and cultural depth – form a perfect duo for a meaningful Indochina journey. This 15-day itinerary strikes a balance between iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path gems, offering a complete experience that’s both inspiring and time-efficient.
Why choose a tour instead of going solo?
Traveling independently might offer a sense of freedom, but navigating two different countries comes with challenges, especially when it comes to transportation, language barriers, and visa procedures. Choosing a tour with BestPrice Travel takes all that hassle off your plate. From transfers and accommodations to experienced guides and curated experiences, everything is thoughtfully arranged, allowing you to save time and fully enjoy every moment of your journey.
From the very first planning stages, my journey with BestPrice Travel stands out. Their dedicated travel consultants, always on hand, will answer every question and tailor each segment of your itinerary to your needs. Every detail is thoughtfully crafted to showcase local culture while ensuring your comfort and creating lasting memories.
Review of the Journey by Destinations
Day 1 – 3: From Hanoi’s Old Quarters to Halong Bay’s World Wonders
Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, I was warmly welcomed by a BestPrice Travel representative at Pole No.10 and transferred straight to my hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. After settling in, I couldn’t wait to explore the city. A leisurely cyclo ride took me through the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, followed by an enchanting traditional water puppet show. Dinner was delicious, filled with bold northern flavors.
The next morning, I set out on a half-day Hanoi city tour, visiting some of the capital’s most iconic landmarks. At the Temple of Literature, I admired the legacy of Vietnam’s first university. I marveled at the unique design of the One Pillar Pagoda, shaped like a lotus blooming from the water, and paid a respectful visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum. Later, I found peace at Tran Quoc Pagoda and took in the tranquil scenery of West Lake before enjoying a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
On the third day, I left the city behind for the legendary Halong Bay. My driver picked me up around 8:00 AM for the 2.5 to 3-hour drive to the pier. After a smooth check-in at the waiting lounge, I boarded the Mon Chéri Cruise just past noon. Lunch was served in the cruise’s panoramic restaurant as the limestone karsts of Halong Bay drifted outside – a truly breathtaking sight.
The afternoon was full of optional activities depending on the cruise’s itinerary: kayaking through emerald waters and swimming near secluded beaches. I even had time to relax and enjoy the golden sunset from the sundeck, cocktail in hand. As the sky turned orange, the cruise offered a cooking class and a happy hour special, perfect for unwinding.
Dinner was served onboard between 19:00 – 20:00, featuring a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes. The evening didn’t end there, guests could join squid fishing, watch a movie, or simply stargaze on the upper deck with a drink. Peaceful, unforgettable, and the perfect prelude to the next part of the journey.
Day 4 – 6: Lantern Lights & Ancient Streets in Hoi An
My journey through Vietnam took a peaceful turn when I arrived in the charming town of Hoi An. I checked into a cozy riverside hotel in the heart of the Old Town, where yellow-walled buildings and wooden shutters whispered stories of centuries past.
Day 4 was free, and I chose to explore the streets at my own rhythm. I wandered through narrow alleys lined with tailor shops, art galleries, and cafés that spilled their tables onto sidewalks.
Day 5 was dedicated to discovering Hoi An’s storied past on foot. I joined a half-day guided walking tour through the Old Town, where each turn revealed layers of history. We started at the famed Japanese Covered Bridge, a 17th-century architectural gem, before moving on to the Fujian Assembly Hall, adorned with dragons, incense coils, and vibrant carvings. Our guide brought the town’s cultural fusion to life through vivid storytelling. Along the way, I sampled the local herbal tea, “Mot,” a refreshing mix of lemongrass and lime that locals swear by. We ended the tour at a traditional handicraft workshop, where artisans shaped delicate souvenirs by hand, a perfect way to bring home a piece of Hoi An.
Day 6 brought a change of pace as I joined the Tra Que Vegetable Village Half-Day Tour, a delightful escape into Hoi An’s countryside. At 8:00 AM, I was picked up from my hotel and brought to a bike rental shop to gear up for the day’s adventure. Cycling through peaceful rice paddies and lotus ponds, I arrived at Tra Que Village, a lush, green haven where the air smelled of fresh herbs and fertile soil. Welcomed by friendly local farmers, I had the chance to experience daily life on the farm, raking the soil, planting vegetables, and learning the secrets of organic gardening that fuel Hoi An’s iconic dishes like Cao Lau and Mi Quang.
Day 7 – 10: The Vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City & the Serenity of the Mekong Delta
On Day 7, after one last peaceful breakfast in Hoi An, I headed to Da Nang Airport for a short flight down to Ho Chi Minh City. Arriving in Saigon felt like diving into another world. The pace, the sounds, the energy, it all hit me instantly.
On Day 8, I joined a city tour of Ho Chi Minh. We first visited the Reunification Palace, then walked to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, which was still in operation with a charming old-school vibe. The War Remnants Museum followed, offering a heavy but important look at the country’s history.
That evening, I opted for a motorbike food tour, riding through Saigon’s traffic, stopping at street food spots for grilled seafood, crispy pancakes, and ending at the colorful Ho Thi Ky Flower Market.
On Day 9, I traded the city’s hustle for the calm of the Mekong Delta. I started with a sampan boat ride down the Tien River, where I marveled at the quiet life along the riverbanks, small houses, and lush greenery everywhere. Our first stop was a local workshop where I saw how coconut candy, rice paper, and wine are made. It was fascinating to watch and taste the fresh products. Next, I visited a bee farm to learn about beekeeping and sip on honey tea, sweet and refreshing.
I then took a short boat ride through the serene canals, surrounded by greenery, before heading to Tan Phong Island. There, we enjoyed a tropical fruit tour and a traditional “Don ca tai tu” music performance. Afterward, a delicious lunch awaited us. In the afternoon, we traveled to Can Tho, where I spent the evening walking along the riverside, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
On Day 10, I started early with a visit to the Cai Rang floating market, one of the largest in the Mekong Delta. I watched vendors trade fresh produce along the river, experiencing the lively, colorful atmosphere. I even tried fresh pineapple right on the boat.
Next, I visited a floating rice noodle factory, where I observed the traditional noodle-making process and sampled the noodles. Afterward, I enjoyed lunch before heading to Chau Doc, with the tranquil beauty of the day as a perfect conclusion to my Mekong Delta adventure before crossing into Cambodia.
Day 11 – 15: The Spirit of Phnom Penh & Siem Reap
On Day 11, I began my journey with a thrilling speedboat ride from Chau Doc, Vietnam, to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Cruising along the Mekong River, I passed floating villages and peaceful river landscapes, making this border crossing an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival in Phnom Penh, I was warmly welcomed and transferred to my hotel, where I could relax and unwind or explore the city at my own pace.
The next morning of Day 12, I explored Phnom Penh’s iconic sites, including the Independence Monument, the Royal Palace, and the National Museum, which houses incredible Khmer artistry. The spiritual atmosphere of Wat Phnom, the city’s sacred hilltop temple, was a highlight. In the afternoon, I traveled through the Cambodian countryside to Siem Reap, setting the stage for the ancient wonders of Angkor.
Day 13 was all about the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park. I began at Ta Prohm, where giant tree roots embraced ancient stone ruins, made famous by Tomb Raider. Next, I visited Angkor Thom and stood before the iconic stone faces of Bayon Temple. In the afternoon, I explored Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, and watched it glow golden at sunset. The day ended with a delicious buffet dinner and a traditional Apsara dance performance, immersing me in the local culture.
On Day 14, I had the freedom to choose my adventure. With no schedule to follow, I began the morning by wandering through local markets, sampling fragrant street food, and browsing stalls filled with handmade crafts. A relaxing Khmer massage was the perfect mid-day treat, a soothing way to absorb the calm energy of this historic town.
On my last day, I spent the morning enjoying Siem Reap at my own pace. Whether I chose to relax or squeeze in one last adventure, it was a perfect ending to an incredible journey. Before heading to the airport, I visited Les Artisans d’Angkor, where the region’s traditional crafts were beautifully showcased.
For anyone looking to experience the magic of both Vietnam and Cambodia, discover the best of Vietnam and Cambodia for a seamless adventure through these captivating countries.
Service and Experience with BestPrice Travel
- Professional Consultation: Rosie, the main consultant, was always quick to respond and provided full support for procedures like eVisa for both countries.
- Customer Care: Rosie stayed in touch throughout the trip via WhatsApp, ensuring everything ran smoothly during the journey.
- Well-Structured Itinerary: The tour included major highlights from both countries, with free time in between for personal exploration, preventing the trip from feeling rushed.
- Big Plus: The door-to-door transfer service for all segments of the trip saved a lot of time and effort on transportation.
- Accommodation & Cruise Quality: Comfortable hotels in central locations and a premium Halong Bay cruise that met all expectations.
- Small Note: Payments via Onepay Vietnam with a card may require verification with the bank if transactions are blocked.
Conclusion & Recommendations
This 15-day Vietnam and Cambodia tour is perfect for travelers who love immersing themselves in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family, or a group of friends, this journey offers something for everyone.
Pro tip: Be sure to book your tour in advance, prepare your visa, and double-check payment options to avoid any surprises.
Join a trip now to start your incredible journey through the heart of Indochina. Embark on this extraordinary journey to discover the best of Vietnam and Cambodia and create memories that will last a lifetime.
