Planning a 3-week journey to Vietnam is quite easy but it may be too much if in Cambodia due to this country being a bit smaller. It is really a perfect idea to believe that combining two places will maximize your use of your family holiday. This comprehensive travel guide and perfect itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable journey through the highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia. From the best time to visit, visa information, currency details, and a week-by-week itinerary, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
What can you expect in Vietnam and Cambodia for 3 weeks?
A three-week trip to Vietnam and Cambodia offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and historical sites. While they share a land border, it’s recommended to fly between the two countries for convenience and time-saving purposes.
Both Vietnam and Cambodia have a shared history, including the tragic wars that took place in the 1970s. If you’re interested, you can also plan a three-week itinerary that includes Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam to further explore the connections between these countries.
For travelers coming from North and Latin America, the journey to Vietnam and Cambodia can be quite long. However, rest assured that the trip is worthwhile, and you’ll have the opportunity to discover the wonders of these Southeast Asian destinations.
In Cambodia, you’ll have the chance to explore the world-famous Angkor Wat, an impressive temple complex that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, you can witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton and take a ride on Battambang’s popular bamboo train.
In Vietnam, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of Halong Bay, a stunning seascape of limestone islands. The mountainous region of Sa Pa offers breathtaking landscapes, while the historic city of Hanoi showcases its rich heritage and culture. Both Angkor Wat and Halong Bay are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, highlighting their exceptional value.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Both Vietnam and Cambodia?
In general, the best time to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia is from October to March. However, it’s important to note some specific considerations for each month:
- October and November are the rainy season in Central Vietnam, so be prepared for occasional showers.
- December is winter in northern Vietnam, and it can get quite cold, especially in mountainous regions. The landscape may not be as vibrant, but you can still enjoy the cultural aspects and urban areas.
- January and February are the dry season in both Vietnam and Cambodia, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- March witnesses one of the most beautiful months for outstanding landscapes in Vietnam’s mountains. However, both Vietnam and Cambodia can be crowded during this time, and prices for flights and accommodations may be higher.
Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your expectations and the availability of time for your journey. Consider your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and budget while planning your trip.
Perfect Itinerary for Highlights
To make the most of your trip, we suggest you an overall perfect itinerary that takes you through the highlights of both countries. Whether you’re captivated by ancient temples, stunning landscapes, or vibrant cities, this itinerary offers a well-rounded adventure. So, let’s dive into the details of each week:
Week 1: North Vietnam
- Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
- Day 2: Hanoi City tour
- Day 3: Haniu free time – Evening street food
- Day 4: Hanoi – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh
- Day 5: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Bai Dinh
- Day 6: Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Biking
- Day 7: Ninh Binh – Hanoi – Fly to Hue
Week 2: Central Vietnam and Siem Reap – Cambodia
- Day 8: Hue City tour
- Day 9: Hue – Marble Mountain – Hoian
- Day 10: Hoian walking – countryside biking
- Day 11: Hoian cooking class
- Day 12: Hoian free time – Fly to Siem Reap
- Day 13: Siem Reap discovery
- Day 14: Siem Reap discovery
Week 3: Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City with Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta
- Day 15: Siem Reap free time
- Day 16: Siem Reap – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City – Evening Vespa tour
- Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi tunnels
- Day 18: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Overnight on Mekong River cruise
- Day 19: Mekong Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh
- Day 20: Ho Chi Minh departure
However, the above is just an overall suggestion for a perfect Vietnam and Cambodia highlight itinerary, for the other specific requirements such as interest in locals, nature or culture, etc. You can absolutely tell them to our local experts and customize your Vietnam and Cambodia tour in 3 weeks that suits you best.
Vietnam and Cambodia Visa
Cambodia is one of the few countries that have straightforward visa rules, which is quite convenient for travelers. Unless your passport is from Southeast Asia (which receives a free visa), you only need to apply for an e-visa online or get a visa upon arrival.
Foreign visitors to Vietnam can also apply for an e-visa online, which is valid for 30 to 90 days. A 30-day e-visa cannot be renewed, but a visa on arrival for 30 to 90 days can be extended.
The visa fee ranges from $25 to $35, depending on the entry port, and the visa is valid for 30 days. When applying online, ensure that you have the correct dates, your flight number, port of entry, a digital passport photo, a bank card for payment, the address of your first hotel, and personal information.
The processing time typically takes between 3 to 7 business days, excluding weekends. So, if you submit your application on a Friday afternoon, you might have to wait until the following Friday. However, if you submit it on Monday, you should receive your e-visa before the end of the week.
For the rest of the world, except Africa, the Middle East, and some South Asian countries, it is necessary to apply for a visa in advance. However, most countries in Latin America, North America, Europe, Central Asia, and Oceania can apply for a 30-day e-visa.
Currency
When visiting Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s recommended to carry a mix of US dollars and local currency for convenience. Be sure to have small denominations for easier transactions and to negotiate better prices in local markets.
Vietnam
In Vietnam, the official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available in major cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Cambodia
Similarly, in Cambodia, the official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, the US dollar is widely accepted and preferred for most transactions. ATMs are widely available in cities, and credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments.
Vietnam and Cambodia Electricity Information
When planning your visit to Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s essential to be aware of the electricity information, including the voltage and power plug types in each country.
Vietnam
- The standard voltage: 220V
- Primarily uses two types of power plugs: Type A (the most common), which consists of two flat pins and Type C, which features two round pins.
For your information: Electricity in Vietnam: What you need to know before your journey
Cambodia
- The standard voltage: 230V
- Primarily uses two types of power plugs: Type A (the most common), which consists of two flat pins and Type C, which features two round pins. (However, type G outlets with three rectangular pins are becoming more prevalent in modern establishments).
it’s important to check the power requirements of your electronic devices before your trip. Many modern devices can handle a wide voltage range (usually 100V-240V) and automatically adapt to the local voltage. However, some devices may require a voltage converter to operate correctly.
By bringing a suitable travel adapter and considering the voltage compatibility of your electronic devices, you can easily charge your devices and navigate the electrical systems in Cambodia without any issues.
FAQs
How many days are enough for Vietnam and Cambodia?
The ideal duration for a combined trip to Vietnam and Cambodia depends on your interests and the places you wish to explore. Generally, a minimum of 10-14 days is recommended to have a meaningful experience in each country. However, if you want to cover more destinations and have a more immersive experience, allocating around 2-3 weeks would be preferable.
Maybe you want to read more: Vietnam and Cambodia 2 Weeks: Perfect Itinerary & Complete Travel Guide
Is 3 weeks too long for Vietnam?
No, 3 weeks is not too long for Vietnam. Vietnam is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and numerous attractions to explore. Within 3 weeks, you’ll have ample time to visit various regions, experience the local culture, enjoy different activities, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the country. It allows for a more relaxed pace of travel and the opportunity to delve deeper into each destination.
How much money do you need for 3 weeks in Vietnam?
The cost of a 3-week trip to Vietnam can vary depending on various factors such as your travel style, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities. As a general guideline, a moderate-budget traveler can expect to spend around $50-70 per day on accommodations, food, transportation, and sightseeing.
This estimate can increase if you prefer luxurious accommodations, fine dining, or additional activities. Including flights and other pre-trip expenses, a rough estimate for a 3-week trip to Vietnam would be around $1500-2500 per person.
From Indochina Voyages Team
