18-day Itinerary Vietnam – Cambodia -Thailand | Best 2025-26

Traveling through Southeast Asia in just under three weeks sounds ambitious, but this well-crafted 18-day tour from Authentic Adventures makes it both manageable and memorable. With major cities, UNESCO sites, stunning islands, and vibrant markets, this trip offers a comprehensive taste of what Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand have to offer—all with most logistics taken care of for you. From the moment you step into this journey, you’ll notice that it’s designed for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail.

One thing we love about this experience is the all-inclusive nature—accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry fees are covered, which means fewer surprises and more time to enjoy the sights. However, with such a packed itinerary, be prepared for some busy days and early mornings. This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and explore different cultures, but still looking for comfort and guided ease.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry fees are covered, making it stress-free.
• Diverse Experiences: From UNESCO sites to vibrant markets and island beaches, the variety keeps the trip exciting.
• Expert Guides & Smooth Transfers: Knowledgeable guides and hotel pickups provide a seamless experience.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Temples, floating markets, and scenic bays ensure a well-rounded adventure.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Cost-Effective: At $2,859 per person, considering flights and all inclusions, it provides good value for extensive travel.

Breaking Down the Experience: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting in Hanoi – The Charm of Vietnam’s Capital

Your adventure kicks off in Hanoi, a city where history and modern life collide. The first day is designed for you to relax after your journey, with ample leisure time to wander around the Old Quarter. The tour’s strength here is the flexibility—you’re encouraged to explore at your own pace. The next morning, you’ll join a well-organized trip to Halong Bay, one of Vietnam’s most iconic sights.

Halong Bay & Lan Ha Bay – The Limestone Masterpiece

You’ll be on a cruise through two breathtaking bay areas—Lan Ha and Ha Long—giving you a taste of legendary limestone formations and tranquil waters. The cruise includes a welcome drink, a delicious lunch, kayaking, and swimming in Tra Bau Fishing Village. Reviewers specifically mention the stunning views and well-organized activities like kayaking and relaxing in the Jacuzzi—ideal for nature lovers and those who enjoy a bit of luxury.

Waking early for Tai Chi on the sundeck while watching the sunrise is a highlight, and the boat’s itinerary includes visits to scenic islands like Thoi Quyt and Finger Island. Notably, the cruise’s included activities allow you to explore limestone caves, paddle in calm waters, and soak in the sunset—all within a day that balances adventure and relaxation.

Hanoi’s Cultural Gems & Flight to Da Nang

Back on land, you’ll explore Hanoi’s cultural sites like the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Reviewers comment that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making these visits both educational and enjoyable. Afterward, a short flight whisks you to Da Nang, where you transfer to Hoi An.

Hoi An – History, Markets & The Japanese Covered Bridge

In Hoi An, the UNESCO World Heritage town, you’ll visit My Son Sanctuary—an ancient Hindu temple complex—and stroll through colorful markets. The Old House of Tan Ky, Fu Jian Assembly Hall, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge are highlights, with guides providing insights that bring history to life. Many reviews praise the well-paced tours and attention to detail, noting the charm of the town’s lantern-lit streets in the evening.

Spending a day in Hoi An’s Old Town is perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and soaking in the unique blend of Asian architecture and local culture. The tour offers a good balance between structured visits and free time.

Moving South to Ho Chi Minh City – The Buzz of Vietnam’s Largest City

Flying south, you arrive in Ho Chi Minh, where the tour includes visits to the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the War Remnants Museum. The guides are commended for their knowledge and clarity—making complex history accessible and interesting.

In the afternoon, you explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, an eye-opening experience that many reviewers say enhances understanding of Vietnam’s wartime resilience. The tunnels’ guided tour provides insight into the underground warfare tactics, adding depth to your historical perspective.

Mekong Delta – The Lush Heart of Vietnam

Next, the tour takes you into the Mekong Delta, visiting My Tho and Ben Tre. Cruising along the river past floating markets, traditional villages, and coconut groves offers a glimpse of authentic rural life. Visitors often mention how surprisingly vibrant and lively these markets are early in the morning, making for a vivid sensory experience.

A boat ride through narrow canals and visits to local workshops—where coconut candies and rice paper are made—bring a hands-on feel to the day. Many reviews highlight the “well-organized and authentic” nature of these excursions, with some mentioning how the peaceful scenery contrasts sharply with the bustling city life.

Cambodia’s Ancient Marvels – Angkor Wat & Koh Ker

Flying into Siem Reap, the focus shifts to the Khmer temples, starting with Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm. The latter, with trees growing through stone ruins, is often called the “Tomb Raider” temple, offering a mystical vibe. Visiting Angkor Wat in the late afternoon gives you the chance to see the sunset over one of the world’s largest religious monuments.

The tour includes visits to less-visited sites like Koh Ker and Beng Mealea, overgrown ruins that evoke a sense of adventure. Reviewers repeatedly praise the expert guides who explain the history and architecture with passion, making the temples come alive.

Relaxation & Island Time in Phuket

After Cambodia, the tour shifts to Thailand’s famous beaches—Phuket. Days are largely free for beach lounging, swimming, or optional activities like snorkeling at Bamboo Island or visiting Viking Cave and Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Islands. Travelers appreciate the balance of guided cultural visits and leisure days, with many noting the beautiful beaches and delicious Thai food.

Practical Considerations & Value

At around $2,859 per person, including domestic flights, accommodations, most meals, and guided tours, this package represents excellent value. Considering the logistics of multiple countries, flights, and entry fees all covered, it’s a hassle-free option for those wanting a comprehensive Southeast Asia experience. The tour’s small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

However, the itinerary’s packed schedule means early mornings and long travel days. If you prefer slow-paced travel, this might feel a tad intense, but for active travelers eager to see as much as possible, it’s perfect.

Final Thoughts – Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 18-day journey is ideally suited for adventurous travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience covering the highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, and a good mix of cultural, historical, and natural sights, you’ll find this tour ticks all those boxes.

The inclusions like flights, entry fees, and meals help justify the price, especially considering the complexity of coordinating these countries independently. It’s also excellent for groups and families, as the tour keeps everyone engaged and moving at a comfortable pace.

If you prefer a flexible, freeform trip or dislike early mornings, this might be a bit intense, but for those craving a comprehensive, hassle-free Southeast Asia adventure, this really is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for first-time travelers to Southeast Asia?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to introduce you to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand with guided visits, organized transport, and included flights, making it accessible even for those new to the region.

Are all major sites included in the itinerary?
Yes. The tour covers key highlights such as Ha Long Bay, My Son Sanctuary, Angkor Wat, and the Mekong Delta, ensuring you see the landmarks that define each country.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention from guides and a more intimate experience.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts (18) and some lunches and dinners are included, giving you the chance to sample regional cuisine without extra planning.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Yes, all transportation is air-conditioned, including private cars and flights, ensuring comfort during the long travel days.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While this tour is pre-planned, the small-group setup and guided nature mean you’ll get plenty of insights and flexibility during activities.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, swimwear for island days, and clothing suitable for both city sightseeing and temple visits.

How much free time do I get?
Some days include leisure time, especially in beach destinations like Phuket, but the overall pace is busy with scheduled activities.

In sum, this 18-day guided tour through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand offers a fantastic way to see the highlights with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for energetic travelers eager to explore diverse landscapes, ancient temples, bustling markets, and relaxing beaches—all wrapped in a convenient, well-organized package. If you’re after a memorable, value-packed Southeast Asia adventure, this tour is a compelling choice.