A 2-week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary offers an incredible opportunity to explore the best of both countries. In this guide, you will discover must-visit destinations and exhilarating experiences in Vietnam and Cambodia.
If you are seeking a memorable Southeast Asia travel journey and wondering what to see in Vietnam and Cambodia, you have come to the right place. Our 2-week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary will guide you through an adventure of a lifetime, from vibrant cities to ancient ruins, from picturesque landscapes to bustling markets.
1. Week 1 of the 2-week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary: Discovering Vietnam
1.1. Day 1: Hanoi
To start your Vietnam adventure, begin in the vibrant capital city of Hanoi. Here are the top things to do on your Hanoi travel journey:
- Immerse yourself in the charm of the city as you explore the famous Hanoi 36 streets of Hanoi Old Quarter, known for its bustling markets and narrow alleyways.
- Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, where you can witness the daily life of the locals.
- Discover the rich history of Vietnam by visiting the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Learn about President Ho Chi Minh, one of the greatest figures in the history of Vietnam, at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, and Ho Chi Minh Museum. Don’t miss the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic symbol of Hanoi.
- For a spiritual experience, make your way to Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hanoi that dates back over 1500 years.
- As night falls, indulge in Hanoi’s lively nightlife scene, particularly around the scenic West Lake area.
- Enjoy some of Hanoi’s detectable dishes, including pho, bun cha (Vietnamese rice noodles with grilled pork), bun dau mam tom, shrimp cake, and Vietnamese steamed rice rolls.
1.2. Day 2: Ninh Binh
On the second day of your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, the journey from Hanoi to Ninh Binh promises a range of exciting experiences. Here is what awaits you in Ninh Binh:
- Start your exploration with a visit to Tam Coc, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land”, where you can enjoy a boat ride through breathtaking limestone karsts and serene rice fields.
- Discover the ancient history of Vietnam at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the former political and economic center of the country during the Dinh and Le dynasties.
- Marvel at the grandeur of Bai Dinh Pagoda, one of the largest Buddhist pagodas in Southeast Asia, known for its impressive architecture and spiritual ambiance.
- Treat yourself to the local culinary delights, including delectable goat meat dishes, flavorful rice-based delicacies, and freshly caught seafood.
1.3. Day 3 + 4: Hue
When you reach Hue on the third and fourth days of your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in its rich history and culture.
- Explore the magnificence of Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into the royal heritage of Vietnam.
- Visit Hue Royal Tombs, where the emperors of the Nguyen dynasty rest in peace amidst stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings.
- Explore Dong Ba Market, the largest and oldest market in Hue, where you can find a wide array of local produce, handicrafts, and delicious street food.
- Take a stroll across Trang Tien Bridge, which spans the Perfume River, and enjoy picturesque views of the city.
- Cruise along the Perfume River to enjoy the scenic views of the city and visit Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic temple located on a hill overlooking the river.
- Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Hue’s street food scene, including dishes like banh khoai (Hue-style pancakes), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), com hen (rice with baby clams), and bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), etc.
For those seeking additional sightseeing experiences, venture to Lap An Lagoon, Bach Ma National Park, or explore the unique Thuy Tien Lake – an abandoned water park with a mysterious allure.
1.4. Day 5: Hoi An
On the fifth day of your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, make your way to the enchanting town of Hoi An. Here are the top attractions to see and things to do in Hoi An:
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An Ancient Town and admire its architectural wonders, including the Japanese Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky Old House.
- Soak up the sun and relax at Cua Dai Beach, where you can enjoy pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
- Take a day trip to the Cham Islands, a nearby island cluster known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
- Try local specialty dishes that are unique to the region, such as cao lau, banh mi, mi Quang, and banh bao banh vac (white rose dumplings).
1.5. Day 6: Ho Chi Minh City
On day 6 of your Vietnam adventure, you will be exploring the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh City. Here are the highlights of what to do and see:
- Take a ride on the Saigon Waterbus, which allows you to cruise along the city’s waterways and enjoy a different side of Ho Chi Minh City.
- Visit some iconic tourist attractions in the inner city, including the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, and Ben Thanh Market.
- Embark on a fascinating journey to Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast network of underground tunnels used during the Second Indochina War.
- As night falls, immerse yourself in the bustling nightlife of Bui Vien Street, a vibrant hub filled with bars, restaurants, live music, and entertainment venues.
- Indulge in some local specialties, such as banh mi, pho, bun cha, com tam (broken rice), banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), and Vietnamese coffee.
1.6. Day 7: An Giang
On day 7 of your Vietnam and Cambodia travel journey, you will venture into the beautiful Mekong Delta region and specifically explore An Giang Province. Here are some must-see attractions in An Giang:
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Long Xuyen Floating Market, where local traders gather on boats to sell a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.
- Explore Chau Doc Market, known for its diverse array of goods, including fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and traditional handicrafts.
- Visit Tay An Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate architectural details and serene surroundings.
- Discover the natural beauty of Bung Binh Thien, a stunning freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation.
- Experience the local way of life in Chau Giang Village, where you can interact with friendly villagers, learn about their traditional crafts, and enjoy the scenic rural landscape.
- Savor the local cuisine and try some traditional dishes, including ca tai tuong chien sa te, lau mam (fermented fish hotpot), and banh tam bi (rice noodles with shredded pork and coconut milk).
Once you have thoroughly explored Vietnam, you have various options for traveling to Cambodia:
- By plane: Flying is the fastest and most convenient option. There are direct flights available from major cities in Vietnam, such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, to various cities in Cambodia, including Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
- By road: You can cross the border between Vietnam and Cambodia by land. There are several border crossings, such as Moc Bai/Bavet, Tinh Bien/Phnom Den, and Xa Xia/Prek Chak, where you can travel by bus or private vehicle.
- By boat: Another option is to take a boat or ferry along the Mekong River, which provides a leisurely way to travel between the two countries. Popular routes include traveling from Chau Doc in Vietnam to Phnom Penh or from Can Tho to Phnom Penh.
2. Week 2 of the 2-week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary: Exploring the best of Cambodia
2.1. Day 8 + 9: Phnom Penh
As you begin the second week of your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, take the time to explore the vibrant capital city of Phnom Penh. Here is what you can do during your two-day stay:
- Gain insights into Cambodia’s history and culture by visiting iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum.
- Pay tribute to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- Take a relaxing stroll along the scenic riverfront promenade, Sisowath Quay, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the local markets and street food stalls.
2.2. Day 10 + 11: Siem Reap
Continue your exploration of Cambodia with a visit to the enchanting city of Siem Reap. Here are a few of the things you can enjoy during your stay:
- Discover the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor, including Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm.
- Witness traditional Apsara dances that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Explore the vibrant markets of Siem Reap, such as the Old Market and Angkor Night Market, where you can shop for unique handicrafts and sample local street food.
- Take a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake to see the floating villages and witness the daily lives of the locals.
2.3. Day 12: Koh Rong Samloem
Koh Rong Samloem, a small island off the coast of Cambodia, is a captivating addition to your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary. Here is what awaits you:
- Bask in the pristine beauty of the island’s white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
- Engage in exciting water activities like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
- Take leisurely walks along the scenic nature trails and immerse yourself in the lush tropical landscapes.
- Relax and unwind at beachfront resorts, indulging in delicious seafood and refreshing cocktails while enjoying the breathtaking sunsets.
2.4. Day 13: Ratanakiri
Ratanakiri is a province located in Northeastern Cambodia, known for its beautiful natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here are some highlights of this destination:
- The Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake, a volcanic crater lake that is surrounded by lush forests.
- The Virachey National Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and wildlife watching.
- The Banlung Market, where you can experience the local way of life and try some delicious local specialties.
- The Hill Tribe Villages, where you can learn about the unique traditions and customs of the indigenous communities.
2.5. Day 14: Battambang
On day 14 of your Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, explore the charming city of Battambang:
- Take a ride on the famous Bamboo Train, a thrilling experience that allows you to travel along old railway tracks.
- Discover the rich history and culture of Battambang by visiting ancient temples, such as Wat Ek Phnom and Wat Banan, known for their intricate carvings and architectural beauty.
- Explore the Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau, a sobering reminder of Cambodia’s dark past during the Khmer Rouge regime.
- Visit Phare Ponleu Selpak, a circus school that offers performances by talented young performers.
In addition, Cambodian cuisine is renowned for its flavorful dishes, influenced by Chinese, Indian, and French culinary traditions. When visiting Cambodia, be sure to indulge in the diverse and delicious flavors of Cambodia, including must-try dishes like fish amok, bai sach chrouk, kaw sach chrouk, kuy teav, lok lak, nom ka chai, num pang, Khmer red curry, and more.
Vietnam and Cambodia offer an abundance of excitement and adventure for travelers. With our expertly crafted 2-week Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of these two captivating countries. So, pack your bags today and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
