From Hanoi to Angkor: 14 Days through Vietnam and Cambodia
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hue
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta
- Siem Reap
Explore the natural and cultural beauty of Vietnam and Cambodia on this 14-day itinerary, designed to highlight the rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures of these neighboring countries. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and the tranquil beauty of Halong Bay to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and the lively markets of Phnom Penh, this journey offers a deep dive into the region's heritage. Experience the contrasts and similarities between the two countries, with opportunities to customize your adventure to suit your preferences, ensuring a memorable and insightful travel experience.
- Discover the timeless beauty of Hanoi, one of the world's oldest capitals.
- Experience the serene and poetic charm of Hue, where history and tranquility blend seamlessly.
- Savor a refreshing cocktail while cruising through the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay.
- Marvel at the intricate Khmer art and architecture at the majestic Angkor Wat and the enchanting Banteay Srey.
- Hanoi
- Halong Bay
- Hue
- Hoi An
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta
- Siem Reap
DAY 1 Hanoi arrival
Welcome to Hanoi, the 1000-year-old capital of Vietnam and the starting point of our journey from North to South. Hanoi, meaning "Inside the River," was once known as Thang Long, or "Ascending Dragon." As the former capital of French Indochina, Hanoi's city center features notable European architectural influences.
Depending on your hotel location, you may pass through the Old Quarter with its 36 streets, the historical heart of this ancient merchant city. Each street's name reflects the goods traditionally produced and sold there, such as Cotton, Iron, Sugar, and Traditional Medicine. You can optionally stop at Ma May Street to visit the Ancient House, showcasing traditional Hanoi architecture. The rest of the day is free for relaxation. Overnight in Hanoi.
Note: For first-time travelers to Vietnam, exploring Hanoi's Old Quarter offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Be sure to try local street food and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Kampá Tour is glad to accompany you on this trip, marking the beginning of our 14-day Vietnam-Cambodia itinerary.
DAY 2 Hanoi full day city tour
Embark on a tour around Hanoi. We will drive along along tree-lined avenues to discover Hanoi’s most cultural and historical monuments:
First of all, we make a visit to the recently excavated Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the first political stronghold of the millennial capital. Continue to Temple of Literature – the first university of Vietnam under Ly and Tran dynasties. This ancient site offers a chance to take photos of turtle steles, pavilions, courtyards and passageways that were once used by royalty.
Then together we head to Ba Dinh Square, the complex of former Indochina Governor Palace which is close to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and his stilt house. Another highlight of the trip is Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – the collection of 25,000 ancient and contemporary ethnic objects from all corners of Vietnam.
After touring, we enjoy Water puppet shows which is recognized as an UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
At night, it is your own time strolling around the Old Square to witness the daily life of Hanoians. Please feel free to taste some street food, have some beers or cocktails at local bars, and immerse yourself in the vivid colors of Hanoi at night. Overnight at hotel in Hanoi.
DAY 3 Hanoi – Halong Bay
Morning depart for Halong by shuttle bus (without private guide), the most beautiful bay of Vietnam, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Asia. Located 180 km east of Hanoi and close to China, Halong is an expanse of water, about 1500 km². It is famous for thousands of limestone karsts of all shapes and sizes emerging from the emerald waters, with magnificent cellars eroded in the islands and islets over the centuries by the wind and the sea. On arrival, welcome by cruise staff and embark with the shuttle boat for short transfer (approximately 5 minutes) to the main cruise. Welcome cocktail and check-in on board.
Enjoy your lunch while cruise passing by some of the most scenic locations mountains and a floating village. In the afternoon, swimming, kayaking if weather permitted (Kayak is on your own expense). Do not miss the chance to capture breath taking and sunset scene on the bay. In the evening, dinner is served while the cruise anchored in quiet water area. Overnight on board.
Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.
DAY 4 Halong Bay – Hanoi - Hue
In the early morning, greet the morning as the first ray shines through thousands karst of the bay. We then visit caves of Halong Bay including the French-baptized “Surprise Cave”, study stalagmites and stalactites which date back thousands of years ago. Have brunch on board.
Return to Hanoi at the end of the afternoon then transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Hue. Overnight at hotel in Hue.
Note: The itinerary and activities of the cruise may vary according to the proposed junks.
DAY 5 Hue full day tour
Today, we explore Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. Our journey starts at the Imperial City, the residence and workplace of 13 Nguyen kings for 143 years. Completed under Emperor Minh Mang, it is a monumental structure in modern Vietnamese history.
Next, we visit the Gia Long Tomb, honoring the Nguyen Dynasty's founder, or the tomb of Minh Mang, famous for his 142 royal offspring with 43 concubines.
We then explore the garden houses in Phu Mong Village, which preserve ancient royal heritage. These gardens, including house, tomb, pagoda, palace, and royal gardens, showcase a variety of flowers blooming year-round.
Traveling along the Perfume River, we visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the most visited in Hue, or Tu Hieu Pagoda, the burial site of Nguyen Dynasty eunuchs. If time allows, we visit Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue. We end our day with an overnight stay at a hotel in Hue.
DAY 6 Hue - Hoi An
Departure for Hoi An, a small old town located 150 km south of Hue, the off-the-beaten route along the wild coast of the eastern sea and the route to the Cloud Pass. Several visits and stops are planned along the way: First the beautiful bays of the turquoise water of Lang Co and Da Nang, long pristine beaches Thuan An and Lang Co; here you could sightsee the large lagoons with local fish farms in several types. Then we reach Cloud Pass, the highest pass of Vietnam Center, a climatic dam between the North and the South will offer you a view overlooking the entire coastline of Da Nang.
Along the way you can visit small factories and stores of melaleuca oil. The widely cultivated melaleuca in the area yields oil which is used by local residents in the treatment of joint, respiratory and digestive diseases.
Highlight of the trip today is “An Bang Ghost city” - the picturesque cemetery along the road with many stunning tombs. They are recognized from faraway as luxury castles finely carved in different Asian architectures. You will have opportunity to discover the original custom "Double burial" of Vietnamese, accordingly, the exhumation must take place 3 or 4 years after the initial burial. The bones are collected and then placed in a terracotta coffin to be transplanted, from that moment, the deceased will rest eternally.
Arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon and overnight at the hotel in Hoi An.
DAY 7 Hoi An full day tour
We have a full day in one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric and historical town. Once a major port in the Central coast of Vietnam, it inherits the ancient architecture and beguiling riverside setting that offers tourists a throwback to the past.
In this day we visit:
- Phuc Kien temple: although it’s still referred to as an assembly hall by many, the buildings and grounds have long been used as a temple to worship goddess who protects fishermen and sailors by the descendants of Chinese families in Hoi An.
- Phuc Thanh pagoda: the most ancient one of it kind in Hoi An (Since 1454)
- Japanese bridge: Built in 1593 which connects Chinese and Japanese area in the town.
- Old alley and ancient houses which are witnesses of hundred years gone by
- Shops where colorful silk and lantern can be found. Tourists might me amazed by the speedy service for tailor made clothes. It is rare chance for you to buy clothes which specially made by your size within just 24 hours
- Afternoon, we explore the fish village of Van Lang and the coconut forest of Bay Mau, surrounded by multiple canals, mangrove forests, coconut palms which are still very authentic. The route crossing fields of rice, maize, lush gardens, friendly hamlets, handicraft factories, and boat building workshops will offer you beautiful stops of photos as well as interesting visits. Arrival at the village of Van Lang, welcome by open and nice boatmen and then departure for a basket-boat trip round river coconut trees. Admire beautiful landscapes, relax then try the techniques of shrimp catching before returning to the hotel. Overnight in Hoi An.
DAY 8 Hoi An full day at leisure
Today is your free day in Hoi An. There are many suggestions of activities you can join with your friends and family in this lovely town: Cycling through the peaceful rural area of Hoi An along beautiful green rice field, enjoy the candle light and roses in the most romantic restaurants in Hoian along Thu Bon river, soak up the sunshine on beautiful nearby beaches (Cua Dai and An Bang), taste famous street food in Hoi An sold in street vendors to explore the harmony combination of spice used in local culinary culture… Overnight at hotel in Hoi An.
DAY 9 Hoi An – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh city
In the morning transfer to Da Nang International Airport for flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the capital of the South. Upon arrival, be welcomed by our guide at the airport then transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon, if time permits, we go on a city tour passing by the hallmarks of the city which used to be called “The Gem of Far East”, Cathedral of Notre Dame which is built by the French in 1880, the first basilica of Vietnam, Central Post Office which is an iconic symbol of Saigon mixing of Gothic, Renaissance and French architecture, Former Catinat Street (now Dong Khoi Street) with a score of restored French buildings, Headquarter of the People’s Committee of Chi Minh City (formerly Central Park) which is considered as the most beautiful colonial building of the city.
If we still have time, continue to visit War Remnants Museum – Ho Chi Minh city’s past during the years of the American-Vietnamese War (1954-1975), Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine to discover traditional Vietnamese medicine dating back more than 3000 years old ago.
The tour concludes with Cho Lon (Chinatown) with the Temple of the Celestial Lady and Ben Thanh Market - the representative image of Ho Chi Minh City.
Overnight at hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
DAY 10 Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta
In the morning, we departure for the Mekong Delta. Originating from the high plateau of Tibet on the Himalayan ranges, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world running through several countries in South-East Asia before throwing itself into the sea.
First we stop by Ben Tre, a local village located in the heart of the Northern branch of the river. From here, we boat trip on to reach Mo Cay which is famous for products made from coconut. To go around, we will take a ride or Xe Loi (motorized cyclo) on this green island abundantly covered with coconut plantations. The route away from the mass touristic area leads you to small paths under the shade of coconut palms that offer a particularly poetic landscape. On the way, we stop at farms to observe the manufacture of sweets and coconut brooms.
The highlight of trip is travelling on small rowing boat through canal surrounded by water palms to soak up the daily life of the delta. We then continue to a traditional house of Mr. Van, tasting of local specialties made by his wife: coconut jam, honey tea and pollen ...while talking with the local residents. Local lunch will be served at a restaurant by the river Cai Cam (On your own budget).
DAY 11 Ho Chi Minh city – SiemReap
Enjoy free time at your leisure until your flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, where you'll begin exploring the second city on our Vietnam Cambodia tour. Siem Reap, which translates to the "Defeat of Siam," is the most thriving region in modern Cambodia. Its close proximity to the Angkor Wat temple complex has transformed the city into one of the world's foremost travel destinations. Spend the night in Siem Reap as you embark on your adventures in this remarkable city.
DAY 12 Siem Reap - Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat, dinner with Apsara dance show
Today is a full day dedicated to exploring the mystical Angkor Wat. In the morning, you will visit the "Great City" of Angkor Thom, which includes renowned sites like the Bayon Temple, Phimeanakas Temple within the Royal Palace enclosure, Baphuon Temple, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the Terrace of the Leper King.
The afternoon is dedicated to visiting the most famous and magnificent temple of all, Angkor Wat. In the evening, you will be transferred to a restaurant for dinner accompanied by an Apsara dance show. Enjoy your overnight stay at a hotel in Siem Reap.
DAY 13 Siem Reap - Banteay Srei - Ta Prohm - Mebon - Srah Srang - Pre Rup
Today you will have the chance to explore other impressive temples:
Banteay Srey: loosely translates to ‘citadel of the women,’ but this is a modern appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty of the carvings. It displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art.
Ta Prohm: This quiet, sprawling monastic complex is only partially cleared of jungle overgrowth. Intentionally left partially unrestored, massive fig and silk-cotton trees grow from the towers and corridors offering some of the best ‘tree-in-temple’ photo opportunities at Angkor. Flocks of noisy parrots flit from tree to tree adding to the jungle atmosphere. Continue to visit Mebon temple. Enjoy sunset at Pre Rup Temple. Overnight in SiemReap.
DAY 14 Siem Reap departure
Free at your own leisure until your flight time. Say goodbye to Siem Reap, and we wish you a good journey ahead. This marks the end of our 14-day Vietnam-Cambodia itinerary.
Kampá Tour is glad to have accompanied you on this trip.
• Travel period
• Number of travelers
• Chosen services
- Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
- Travel according to the program by private car
- English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
- All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
- Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
- Meals mentioned in the program
- Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
- Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
- International flights from your home
- Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
- Bank fees related to payment
- Personal insurance
- Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
- Other meals not specified in the program
- SIM card and mobile plans
- Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
Interested in this tour?
What they say about us
Countless travelers create unforgettable memories with us every year. Discover their testimonials about our exceptional service, stunning destinations, and the highlights of their trips !
What they say about us
Carles & his partner - Spain
January 04, 2025 - Good morning, Mrs. Thuy Do,
We finally found the time to write to you and share our travel experience.
A huge THANK YOU for this magnificent trip that was absolutely flawless!
Everything was perfect: from the hotels you selected for us to the drivers and guides (Thai, Dzung, and Anh), who were wonderful and accompanied us throughout. And, of course, the fabulous itinerary you organized for us, allowing us to discover incredible wonders, including the rice terraces in the north, the lantern-filled city of Hoi An in the center, as well as Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.
You and the guides and drivers who joined us contributed immensely to making our trip an unforgettable moment of happiness.
We returned home with great sadness at leaving your beautiful country, as well as the smiles and kindness of its people.
Thank you again for your professionalism, availability, kindness, warmth, the welcome at your agency, and your smiles.
We can’t wait to come back—and
Ethan's Family - Switzerland
December 30, 2024 - Dear Nhung,
A huge THANK YOU for organizing our trip, which was flawless. And yet, we gave you so much work!
First, in crafting the itinerary, custom-tailored to include our requested visits. You contacted me several times on WhatsApp, and in the end, the itinerary suited us perfectly and fit within the budget we had set. Thank you, Nhung, for your availability, attentiveness, and patience.
Then, unfortunately, we had to test your skills and professionalism when, one day before departure, my wife had a sinus infection requiring emergency surgery. We were initially supposed to travel as a group of three—my sister, my wife, and me. Given how well-prepared the trip was, I asked my sister to go ahead. Three days after the surgery, which went very well, I decided to join my sister and pick up the itinerary mid-trip (a week later) from Ha Long Bay. Nhung was amazing and remarkably efficient. She canceled my wife's arrangements and organized my transfer to the Ha
Françoise & Claude - France
December 12, 2024 - Dear NHUNG,
A huge THANK YOU for organizing our trip, which was flawless. How much work you must have had to do for us!
First, for creating a custom itinerary, taking into account our requests for visits. To do this, you contacted me several times on WhatsApp, and in the end, the tour was perfect and fit within our budget. Thank you, Nhung, for your availability, your listening, and your patience.
Then, unfortunately, we had to test, quite against our will, your competence and professionalism when, one day before departure, my husband developed a sinus infection requiring urgent surgery. We were leaving as three—my brother and us. We had prepared the trip so well that I asked my brother to go ahead. Three days later, after the surgery went very well, I decided to join my brother and take the tour from Halong Bay (one week later). Nhung was amazing and incredibly efficient. She canceled my husband’s personal bookings and took care of my transfer to the Halon
Eric and friends - Australia
November 25, 2024 - Hello Nhung,
What a wonderful surprise this palace in Sapa is once again.
We deeply appreciate the tranquility and relaxation of this sumptuous and luxurious establishment: it's a perfect retreat after the bustling days we’ve had since our arrival.
What magnificent discoveries we’ve had in the program you organized for us.
Incredible landscapes and settings, remarkable encounters, and extraordinary people everywhere in the local life. The guides were all different but so passionate and engaging (little Linh, so endearing, Hang, and Sam, so dedicated and professional). The drivers were experienced (especially Cuong in the North, who is our favorite: so kind and attentive… and an expert at navigating the mountain roads to keep us safe).
Leonardo and his wife - France
November 15, 2024 - Dear Nhung,
I finally find the time to write to you and share the impressions that our journey to Vietnam left on us.
Beyond the wonderful memories of the 23 days we spent in Vietnam, there is a particular aspect of this trip that I wish to share with you.
My wife and I have traveled fairly extensively. Not as much as we would have liked, but over the years, we have had the opportunity to visit several countries and have learned to organize our trips quite competently and independently. We have never participated in an organized tour and have always chosen our destinations, itineraries, and experiences based on our readings about the countries we visit and our personal tastes and interests. For Vietnam, our starting point was the same, and you may recall that to define our itinerary, we initially sent you a very precise and detailed travel plan.
Véronique Demonçay - Canada
October 20, 2024 - Good evening Mrs. Trang,
We have returned home and resumed work, though with a bit of nostalgia after discovering your beautiful country.
We had an excellent trip; everything was just as planned. Our guide Thien made the stay very enjoyable by scheduling visits during less crowded times. Always kind, cheerful, and speaking excellent English, he shared his knowledge and the great cultural richness of his country. He always gave us great advice. Thank you also to Mr. Long for his careful driving and kindness.
In Cambodia, Mr. Tra (short for his name) also adapted the visit itinerary to less crowded times. He added a temple visit and the visit to the Angkor Scent Workshop. We ended up visiting the floating village of Kampong Phuck, which was closer than the one originally planned, and there weren't too many people yet. This allowed us to visit a local market as well.
Just for your information, it’s necessary to complete the e-Arrival form for Cambodia in add
Pier-Luc Desbiens - Australia
October 7, 2024 - Hello,
We booked this tour at the last minute, and Kampá Tour didn’t disappoint with their prompt organization. Our guide, Thao, was fantastic—full of energy, humor, and knowledge. We spent a lot of time on boats, drifting along the rivers and canals. We loved cycling through the quiet palm groves and cruising through the narrow waterways by sampan in Mekong Delta.
A special thank you to the entire team at Kampá Tour. We spent 15 days in a wonderful country, with remarkable people, extraordinary landscapes, and a fascinating culture... Our return flight on Sunday was also perfect, and we have already been back at work since Monday... but with many images of Vietnam still in our heads and hearts 😊
Best regards,
Pier-Luc Desbiens
Brigitte and Jean - USA
September 22, 2024 - Dear Ms. Thanh LE,
We are already back in Toulouse, and we didn’t realize how quickly time flew by.
Our 18-day Vietnam tour (August-September 2024) was an unforgettable experience.
First of all, we would like to thank your agency, "Kampá Tour," and especially you, Ms. Thanh Le. This trip, organized by your agency, was remarkably well-prepared, with representatives always attentive to our needs. The selection of hotels and destinations was meticulously planned. During our stay, we had five guides who were always there for us, making us live magical moments. A special thanks to Nhi and Lam. We loved our experiences in Sapa, Hue, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, the Imperial City, and many other places (the list is long).
Regarding safety, it was very reassuring, and we felt well taken care of before and during the trip. On the first day, we had the chance to meet you at your Hanoi office, where you handed us the documents for our tour. I highly recommend this customiz
Maria Dolores & friends - Argentina
September 12, 2024 - Hello,
We had the most amazing time and are heading back to Argentina completely in love with your beautiful country! Everything was perfectly organized, and always on time.
The hotels were so comfortable, and the guides were absolutely fantastic. Special thanks to Luis in Hanoi and Ming in Phnom Penh for their kindness and professionalism – they really made our trip extra special! Hue and Phnom Penh were simply breathtaking – such charming cities with so much history and beauty. We couldn't have asked for a better experience, and we truly appreciate all the effort that went into planning this unforgettable journey.
I will be recommending your agency to all my friends and family – you have been incredible!
Big hugs and all the best,
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the Cambodian visa formalities?
Regarding the Cambodian entry visa, no special procedure is required. You can obtain it directly from the Cambodian authorities upon arrival at Siem Reap Airport or at the border port from Chau Doc to Phnom Penh. However, you will need to bring 2 passport-sized photos in addition to your passport and a fee of 30-35 USD per person.
2. What is the best time to visit Cambodia?
3. Can you reach Cambodia by air?
4. Does the agency handle all the entry formalities for Vietnam and Cambodia?
5. Given the proximity to Vietnam and Cambodia, can you extend the trip to include Laos or Thailand?
6. Can the trip start in Cambodia and end in Vietnam?
7. How to get to Cambodia from Vietnam?
Still have questions or hesitations?