Best of Vietnam & Cambodia 14 Days For Family

Upon your arrival at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, your English-speaking guide will warmly welcome you and arrange your transfer to the hotel in the city center. After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to rest after your journey or begin exploring Vietnam’s captivating capital at your own pace. You might stroll around the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake or simply relax and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: N/A

After breakfast, embark on a half-day walking tour of Hanoi’s most charming quarters. Your exploration begins at a bustling local market where vendors sell fresh produce and daily necessities, offering a glimpse into everyday Vietnamese life. Continue to the historic O Quan Chuong Gateway, one of the few remaining gates of the ancient citadel and the entrance to the vibrant Old Quarter.

Visit the neo-Gothic Saint Joseph’s Cathedral, an architectural gem built in the 1880s, before admiring the elegant French colonial Hanoi Opera House. Take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake), the spiritual heart of the city, and enjoy a traditional cyclo ride through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Quarter, where centuries-old shop houses line the lanes.

The afternoon is free for you to explore independently, perhaps visit museums, shop for souvenirs, or relax at a lakeside café.

Evening Adventure: In the evening, experience Hanoi’s legendary street food scene on an exciting Vespa tour. Riding on the back of a vintage Vespa scooter with an experienced driver, you’ll zip through bustling streets and hidden alleyways, stopping at authentic local eateries to sample delicious dishes like pho, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and Vietnamese coffee. This culinary adventure offers not just incredible food but also an insider’s view of Hanoi’s vibrant nightlife and food culture.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After an early breakfast, depart Hanoi for a full-day excursion to Ninh Binh province, approximately 100km south. Known as “Halong Bay on land,” this region boasts spectacular limestone karst landscapes rising dramatically from emerald rice paddies.

Your first stop is the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, where you’ll visit 10th-century temples dedicated to Vietnam’s early kings. Next, board a traditional sampan boat for a peaceful journey through Tam Coc’s “Three Caves.” Your local rower will skillfully navigate using their feet as you glide along the tranquil river, passing through stunning caves and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush rice fields.

After lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Hang Mua (Dancing Cave). Climb the 500 stone steps to the mountaintop pagoda and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Tam Coc valley below, one of Vietnam’s most Instagram-worthy vistas. The landscape of winding rivers, karst mountains, and patchwork rice fields stretches as far as the eye can see.

Return to Hanoi in the late afternoon, arriving at your hotel around 6-7 PM.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, your driver will collect you from your Hanoi hotel between 8:00-8:30 AM for the scenic journey to Halong Bay (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon arrival at the harbor around noon, you’ll board your luxury cruise vessel and be welcomed with refreshing drinks while receiving a safety briefing.

After settling into your comfortable cabin, enjoy a sumptuous lunch on board as the cruise glides through the magnificent seascape of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The afternoon offers opportunities for kayaking among hidden lagoons, swimming in emerald waters, or simply relaxing on the sundeck as you pass countless limestone islands and karsts.

As evening falls, witness a spectacular sunset over the bay during the Happy Hour sunset party. Dinner is served on the sundeck (weather permitting), featuring fresh seafood and Vietnamese specialties. After dinner, participate in evening activities such as squid fishing, board games, or enjoy cocktails at the sky bar under a canopy of stars.

Tour guide: Cruise guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your day with an invigorating Tai Chi session on the sundeck as dawn breaks over the bay’s mystical landscape. After a light breakfast, enjoy the final cruise through the spectacular karst formations as you return to the harbor.

Upon disembarkation, your driver will transfer you back to Hanoi for your afternoon flight to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Upon arrival at Hue’s Phu Bai Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The evening is free to explore this charming riverside city at your leisure or simply relax after your journey.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you’ll discover why Hue served as Vietnam’s imperial capital from 1802 to 1945. Begin with a visit to the magnificent Imperial Citadel, a vast complex modeled after Beijing’s Forbidden City. Walk through the impressive Ngo Mon Gate and explore the Thai Hoa Palace, once the throne room of the Nguyen emperors. Though damaged during the Vietnam War, the site remains a powerful testament to Vietnam’s royal heritage.

Continue to the ornate Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh, a fascinating fusion of Vietnamese and European architectural styles set on a hillside with commanding views. The elaborate mosaics made from broken porcelain and glass are particularly striking.

In the afternoon, visit the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue’s most famous religious site, perched elegantly on a hill overlooking the Perfume River. Conclude your day with a visit to Dong Ba Market, Hue’s largest and most vibrant market, where you can browse local specialties and observe daily life.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, depart Hue for the scenic drive to Hoi An via Da Nang (approximately 3-4 hours). The journey takes you over the stunning Hai Van Pass, one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of the East Sea and surrounding mountains.

Stop at Lang Co Beach, a pristine crescent bay, for photos before continuing to Da Nang. Here you’ll visit the fascinating Cham Museum, which houses the world’s finest collection of Cham sculpture and artifacts dating from the 4th to 14th centuries.

Continue south to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town that once served as a major Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries. Check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure, perhaps take a stroll along the Thu Bon River or explore the charming lantern-lit streets.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, embark on a walking tour through Hoi An’s enchanting Ancient Town. The remarkably well-preserved architecture reflects a unique fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.

Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century and Hoi An’s most recognizable landmark. Explore the atmospheric Chinese Assembly Halls, particularly the ornate Phuc Kien Assembly Hall with its impressive gateway and courtyard. Step inside Tan Ky House, a 200-year-old merchant’s home showcasing traditional architecture and antique furnishings. Wander through the bustling central market where vendors sell fresh produce, fabrics, and local specialties.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. You might relax at An Bang or Cua Dai beaches, have clothes custom-tailored at one of Hoi An’s many skilled tailors, rent a bicycle to explore the surrounding countryside, or take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Hoi An before your driver transfers you to Da Nang Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City (approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival in Vietnam’s largest and most dynamic city, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your centrally located hotel.

After checking in and freshening up, embark on an afternoon city tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights. Visit the stunning Central Post Office, a magnificent example of French colonial architecture still in operation today. Next door stands the Notre Dame Cathedral, with its distinctive neo-Romanesque red brick facade (note: currently under renovation but impressive from outside).

Continue to the historic Reunification Palace (Independence Hall), the site where the Vietnam War officially ended in 1975. Explore the sobering War Remnants Museum, which houses an extensive collection of photographs, documents, and military equipment documenting the impact of the Vietnam War. End your tour at the bustling Ben Thanh Market, perfect for souvenir shopping and observing local life.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast

Today offers an escape from the city to explore the lush Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s agricultural heartland and one of the world’s most productive rice-growing regions.

Depart early for My Tho (approximately 2 hours south), where you’ll board a motorboat to cruise along the mighty Mekong River, one of Asia’s longest waterways. The journey takes you through an intricate network of canals and past floating fish farms. Visit a local island to see tropical fruit orchards and learn how coconut candy is traditionally made. Experience a unique sampan ride through narrow canals shaded by coconut palms, a peaceful journey through the heart of rural Vietnam.

Stop at a local home to sample honey tea and tropical fruits while enjoying traditional Vietnamese music performed by local artists. Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon, with time to rest before dinner.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, depart for the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels (approximately 1.5 hours northwest of the city). This remarkable 250km network of underground passages served as hiding spots, living quarters, storage facilities, hospitals, and command centers for Viet Cong soldiers during the war.

Watch an introductory video before exploring the preserved tunnel sections. You’ll see booby traps, concealed entrances, living areas, kitchens, and even have the opportunity to crawl through a widened section of the tunnels yourself (optional). The ingenuity and resilience of those who lived underground for months is truly remarkable.

After the tour, return to Ho Chi Minh City for lunch before your driver transfers you to the airport for your flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, clear immigration (visa on arrival available) and meet your Cambodian guide who will transfer you to your hotel. The evening is free to begin exploring this charming town or rest before tomorrow’s temple adventures.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Cu chi tunnels

Today brings the highlight of your entire journey—exploring the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, one of humanity’s most extraordinary achievements and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Begin at Angkor Thom, the “Great City,” entering through the impressive South Gate flanked by giant stone faces. At the city’s center stands the Bayon Temple, famous for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 serene smiling faces. The temple’s intricate bas-reliefs depict scenes from daily life and historical battles of the Khmer Empire.

Continue to the Royal Enclosure, the Terrace of Elephants (once used for royal ceremonies), and the Terrace of the Leper King with its detailed carvings. Visit Baphuon Temple, a massive three-tiered pyramid structure recently restored, offering excellent views from its upper levels.

After lunch, explore the iconic Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it gradually transformed into a Buddhist site. Marvel at the perfect symmetry, extensive bas-reliefs depicting Hindu mythology and historical events, and the five distinctive towers representing Mount Meru. Climb to the upper terraces for panoramic views and stay to witness the magical sunset casting golden light over the ancient stones.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Continue your Angkor exploration today along the Grand Circuit, visiting temples further from the main complex. Begin early with a visit to Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women,” located about 25km from the main temple area. This 10th-century temple is renowned for its intricate and remarkably well-preserved carvings in pink sandstone. The detailed artistry and smaller scale make it one of Angkor’s most exquisite gems.

Return toward Siem Reap, stopping at Banteay Samre, a beautifully restored temple complex from the same era as Angkor Wat. Its relatively fewer visitors make for a more peaceful experience. Continue to Pre Rup, a temple-mountain built in the 10th century with impressive brick towers, and the sprawling Ta Som temple, featuring a photogenic tree-covered eastern gate.

Visit Neak Pean, a unique artificial island temple symbolizing the balance of elements, and the massive Preah Khan temple complex, which once housed thousands of monks and teachers. Its atmospheric corridors, overgrown sections, and intricate carvings create an unforgettable exploration experience.

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon with time to relax or explore Siem Reap’s vibrant Pub Street and night markets.

Tour guide: English speaking guide
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy your final breakfast in Cambodia, savoring the memories of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and the warm hospitality you’ve experienced throughout Vietnam and Cambodia. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or exploration before your guide transfers you to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure flight.

Take home not just photographs but unforgettable experiences of two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries.

Tour guide: N/A
Meals: Breakfast