The Best of Cambodia Vietnam 14 Days

A Complete Look at the 14-Day Cambodia and Vietnam Adventure

Traveling through Cambodia and Vietnam in just over two weeks might sound ambitious, but this 14-day guided tour manages to pack in some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic sights and cultural experiences. From the awe-inspiring ruins of Angkor Wat to the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, this itinerary offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local life.

What we love most? The thoughtfully crafted itinerary allows plenty of time at key sites, avoiding rushed visits and giving you a real feel for each location. Plus, the tour is designed with comfort in mind—luxurious cruises, private transfers, and a knowledgeable guide team make all the difference.

A potential drawback? The tour covers a lot of ground, so be prepared for some long travel days. The pacing might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed, leisurely pace or those who like to explore at their own speed without group schedules.

All in all, this tour suits travelers craving a comprehensive experience with well-organized logistics and a taste of authentic local culture, especially if you’re eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers Cambodia’s Angkor temples, Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Balanced pace: Mixes sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some free time for personal exploration.
• Luxury and convenience: Comfortable transport, private airport transfers, and high-quality cruises enhance the experience.
• Authentic local encounters: Includes visits to local markets, family homestays, and traditional performances.
• Value for money: All major entrance fees, select meals, and overnight accommodations are included, making the price competitive for such a comprehensive tour.
• Guided expertise: Knowledgeable guides and drivers help enrich your understanding and smooth out logistics.

A Deep Dive into the 14-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Cambodia’s Royal Heritage and Temples in Siem Reap

Starting in Phnom Penh, the tour kicks off with a quick visit to the Night Market — a lively spot to soak in local flavors and get a feel for the city’s evening buzz. The next day, the focus shifts to Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, where intricate architecture and shimmering gold adornments give a glimpse into Cambodia’s regal past. Visiting Toul Sleng Genocide Museum offers a sobering but essential perspective on the turbulent history that shaped the nation.

Transitioning to Siem Reap, the journey continues with a comfortable transfer aboard an express bus or van, arriving in time for a buffet dinner accompanied by a traditional Khmer show—an excellent way to introduce yourself to local artistry.

The highlight here? Exploring Angkor Thom, with stops at Bayon Temple, famous for its smiling stone faces, Terrace of the Elephants, and the enchanting Ta Prohm, where nature and human architecture unite in a jungle embrace. Finishing with a sunset at Angkor Wat—the world’s largest religious monument—provides a fitting conclusion to this temple-filled day.

Days 4-6: From Cambodia to Vietnam’s War History and Mekong Delta

After a leisurely morning, you’ll head to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), where the city’s vibrant energy awaits. The tour provides free time to explore, perhaps at your own pace. The next day, the itinerary dives into Vietnam’s spiritual and wartime history with visits to Cao Dai Temple, astonishing for its colorful architecture and the midday ceremony, and Cu Chi Tunnels, which reveal the guerrilla warfare tactics of wartime Vietnam. These tunnels—an intricate underground network—are both fascinating and a little unnerving, giving insight into how resilience was built beneath the surface.

The journey continues south to the Mekong Delta, where lush waterways and floating markets make for a scenic and immersive experience. Cruises past fruit plantations, water coconut groves, and fishing villages paint a picture of rural life. Visiting Ben Tre Museum and sampling coconut candy provide tangible tastes of local living.

Days 7-9: North Vietnam’s Capital and Ancient Sites

Flying to Hanoi, the tour introduces you to Vietnam’s capital, a city where history, French colonial architecture, and buzzing street life collide. The Hanoi Opera House, Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake are must-see landmarks, offering insights into Vietnam’s cultural evolution.

A day trip to Hoa Lu and Tam Coc takes you into Vietnam’s ancient capital and scenic rice paddies. Cruising through caves and cycling along rural paths, you’ll see a different side of Vietnam—quiet, picturesque, and deeply rooted in tradition.

Days 10-12: Sapa’s Mountain Village Charm

Traveling to Sapa involves a scenic train ride through stunning mountain landscapes. Once there, the focus is on the Black Hmong and Dzay minority villages. The guided treks through terraced rice paddies and local homestays give a rare glimpse into the daily lives and customs of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. The trekking isn’t overly strenuous but does require some stamina, with options for jeep or minivan transfers for the last leg if needed.

Days 13-14: Halong Bay’s Iconic Seascape

The final days take you aboard a luxurious cruise exploring Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The overnight cruise includes visits to Sung Sot Cave, kayaking, and a Sunset Party—all with spectacular views of limestone karsts rising from the water. The cruise offers both relaxation and opportunities to experience local seafood and learn how pearls are farmed in the area.

On the last morning, waking up early to watch the sunrise over the bay sets a peaceful tone before heading back to Hanoi. The journey wraps up with a farewell meal and transfer to Noi Bai Airport.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value and inclusions are notable. The tour covers all major entry fees, selected meals, accommodations, and transportation—streamlining your experience and reducing unexpected costs. The cruise on Halong Bay, in particular, is a highlight, offering a romantic and scenic escape that’s often regarded as a bucket-list experience.

Guides and transportation receive praise, with reviews mentioning knowledgeable guides who add context and stories that bring the sites alive. The luxury boats and private transfers elevate comfort, especially after long travel days.

Authentic experiences like family homestays in Sapa, local temple visits, and floating markets in the Mekong Delta help travelers connect with local lifestyles beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is packed, it also involves some long days—particularly traveling between cities and in transfer times. For example, the train to Sapa takes about six hours, which can be tiring but offers beautiful scenery. The cruise days in Halong Bay are about five hours each, so bringing a good book or camera is recommended.

The price of around $3,357 per person seems reasonable given the extensive itinerary, high-quality accommodations, transportation, and guided experiences. For travelers seeking a hassle-free way to see both Cambodia and Vietnam’s highlights, this tour offers excellent value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided adventure that covers major sights with some cultural depth. It’s ideal if you prefer organized itineraries, including transportation and entrance fees, to maximize your time and minimize stress.

It also appeals to those eager to visit iconic sites like Angkor Wat and Ha Long Bay, as well as cultural sites like Cu Chi Tunnels and local villages. The pace might be a bit full for those seeking a super-relaxed holiday, so if you’re okay with some travel days and busy schedules, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

FAQ

How much free time is there during the tour?
There are designated free periods, such as after arriving in Saigon and in Hanoi, allowing you to explore independently or relax.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts are included, along with lunches and dinners at specified points, mainly in Cambodia and Vietnam. Some dinners—like the sunset cruise—are optional or not included.

What type of transportation is used?
You’ll travel by private air-conditioned cars, luxury boats in Halong Bay, and an express bus or van between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. The train to Sapa offers a comfortable sleeper experience.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a group tour with small-group elements and private transfers, making it suitable for solo travelers comfortable with guided group activities.

What kind of accommodations are included?
Hotels are included with double/twin sharing, usually at comfortable, well-rated properties, with some nights aboard cruises in Halong Bay.

Can I customize this tour?
Since this is a guided group tour, customization options may be limited, but you can usually explore on your own during free periods.

Are there options for vegetarians or special diets?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, especially during included meals, with alternatives in some locations.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day tour of Cambodia and Vietnam offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for travelers eager to see the essential sights while enjoying comfort and guided ease. The combination of iconic temples, bustling cities, scenic waterways, and mountain villages provides a diverse and authentic taste of Southeast Asia.

The carefully curated itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive pricing make it a compelling choice for those seeking a hassle-free, yet culturally rich adventure. While it involves some travel days and packed schedules, the highlights and the depth of experiences make it worth every moment—perfect for travelers wanting both adventure and comfort.

If your goal is to see the major landmarks, learn about local customs, and enjoy seamless logistics, this tour offers a solid, all-in-one package that balances value, authenticity, and fun.

Note: For more options and similar experiences, check out Viator’s other Cambodia and Vietnam tours.