"Grand Southeast Asia Adventure: 17 Days from Vietnam’s Heritage to Thailand’s Tropical Paradise"
- Destinations : Hanoi -Halong Bay – Hoi An -Hue -Ho Chi Minh City -Mekong – Delta – Bangkok -Chiang Rai -Chiang Mai -Phuket
- Duration:17 days / 16 nights
Tour Highlight: Discover the Wonders of Vietnam and Thailand
Embark on an unforgettable 17-day journey through the cultural and natural gems of Vietnam and Thailand. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Bangkok to the tranquil waters of Halong Bay and the golden beaches of Phuket, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant traditions. Experience ancient temples, vibrant markets, picturesque landscapes, and delicious cuisine as you traverse two of Southeast Asia's most captivating countries.
What to Expect
Hanoi, Vietnam
Kick off your adventure in the heart of Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Walk through the bustling Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and explore ancient pagodas. Discover the city’s rich history through its French colonial architecture, serene lakes, and vibrant markets. Top off your day with a traditional water puppet show, a unique cultural experience.
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be mesmerized by towering limestone islands and hidden caves. Enjoy a night on board a traditional junk boat, with opportunities to swim, kayak, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Hoi An, Vietnam
Step into the charming town of Hoi An, famous for its ancient streets and colorful lanterns. Stroll through riverside markets, visit the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, and experience the vibrant local culture. Join a cooking class or enjoy the tranquil countryside, biking through rice paddies.
Hue, Vietnam
Explore the historic imperial city of Hue, once the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. Wander through the impressive Imperial aCitadel, take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, and visit the majestic royal tombs. Hue’s rich history and stunning landscapes are sure to captivate.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Immerse yourself in the dynamic energy of Ho Chi Minh City, a mix of old and new. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the War Remnants Museum, and the bustling Ben Thanh Market. Take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels to gain insight into the Vietnam War and experience the vibrant Saigon nightlife.
Mekong Delta, Vietnam
Venture into the heart of the Mekong Delta, known for its vast network of rivers and canals. Discover the unique lifestyle of the locals as you visit floating markets, explore lush fruit orchards, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride through this beautiful and fertile region.
Thailand Adventure Begins
Bangkok, Thailand
Explore the vibrant capital of Thailand, a city of contrasts where modern skyscrapers coexist with ancient temples. Visit the majestic Grand Palace, home to the Emerald Buddha, and marvel at the ornate beauty of Wat Pho. Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, shop in lively markets, and experience the buzz of Bangkok’s famous street food scene.
Chiang Rai, Thailand
Discover the mystical side of Thailand in Chiang Rai. Visit the dazzling White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a modern artistic marvel, and explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and rich culture of northern Thailand.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Continue your journey in the cultural heart of Thailand, Chiang Mai. Wander through its historic Old City, visit ancient temples such as Wat Phra Singh, and explore vibrant night markets. You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in a traditional Thai cooking class and enjoy a day trip to visit the famous Doi Suthep Temple with sweeping views of the city.
Phuket, Thailand
End your journey on the tropical island of Phuket, known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the pristine shores of Patong, Kata, or Karon beaches, take a boat tour to the nearby Phi Phi Islands, or enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving. Phuket’s nightlife, luxury resorts, and scenic beauty offer the perfect finale to your Southeast Asian adventure.
This 17-day tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling cities and ancient temples to serene beaches and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re exploring vibrant markets, cruising through stunning bays, or relaxing on tropical beaches, each destination promises unforgettable memories.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Transport: Car/Flight
Upon your arrival at Hanoi airport, your tour guide and driver will be there to warmly greet you. You’ll be escorted to your hotel for check-in, where you can settle in and relax after your journey. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the surroundings or simply unwind at your hotel.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car
Start your day with a delicious breakfast before setting off to explore Vietnam’s vibrant capital. Discover Hanoi’s blend of French colonial architecture, peaceful lakes, and ancient pagodas. Your tour begins with a visit to Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum and his former residence, followed by the historic One Pillar Pagoda and the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake.
Afterward, visit the Museum of Ethnology (or choose from the Women’s Museum, History Museum, Hoa Lo Prison, or Army Museum). In the afternoon, explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, followed by a visit to the Ngoc Son Temple near Hoan Kiem Lake. Enjoy a one-hour rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. End your day with a traditional water puppet show before heading back to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Note: Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum is closed on Mondays and Fridays.
Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Car/Cruise
After breakfast, depart from Hanoi for a scenic 3.5-hour drive through the Red River Delta to Halong Bay. Along the way, capture picturesque views of Vietnamese farmers working in their lush green rice paddies. Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat for an overnight cruise through the mesmerizing Halong Bay.
Enjoy a gourmet lunch of fresh seafood as you sail past dramatic limestone islands and towering cliffs. Spend the afternoon exploring the bay, with optional activities such as kayaking or swimming (weather permitting). Relax on deck and take in the breathtaking views as the sun sets over the bay. Dinner will be served onboard, where you will enjoy a peaceful night on the water.
Note: Each junk’s itinerary may vary slightly.
Day 4: Halong Bay to Hoi An
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Transport: Car/Flight/Cruise
Wake up early for Tai Chi on the top deck or simply watch the sunrise over the bay. Enjoy a light breakfast as you continue to explore Halong Bay’s stunning landscapes. Visit nearby islands by rowboat, and afterward, return to the junk to cruise through the scenic Bai Tu Long Bay. After brunch onboard, return to the pier and transfer back to Hanoi Airport for your flight to Da Nang.
Upon arrival in Da Nang, your guide and driver will transfer you to Hoi An, a charming ancient town. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.
Day 5: Hoi An City Tour - My Son
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car
Start the day with a visit to the ancient ruins of My Son, once the spiritual capital of the Champa Kingdom, which dates back to the 2nd century. Explore the temples set amidst lush green valleys and learn about the rich history of the Champa civilization.
In the afternoon, return to Hoi An for a city tour. Visit the former merchants' homes, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda, and the bustling riverside market. Take some free time to wander through the lantern-lit streets or relax at a local café.
Day 6: Hoi An to Hue
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car
After breakfast, depart Hoi An for the historic city of Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam. On the way, stop at the famous Danang Beach and visit the Cham Museum, which houses the finest collection of Cham sculptures in the world.
Upon arrival in Hue, check into your hotel and set out to explore the Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City, once the residence of the Nguyen emperors. Later, visit the bustling Dong Ba Market to experience the vibrant local life.
Day 7: Hue City Tour - Ho Chi Minh City
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car/Flight/Boat
Begin your day with a serene dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River, stopping at the famous Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Continue with visits to the elaborate tombs of King Minh Mang and King Khai Dinh, showcasing beautiful examples of Nguyen dynasty architecture.
After the tour, transfer to Hue Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in. The rest of the evening is yours to relax and explore Saigon at your own pace.
Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City Tour - Cu Chi Tunnels
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car
In the morning, embark on a fascinating trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passageways used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Gain insight into the history of the tunnels and, if you dare, crawl through some sections to get a feel for life underground.
Return to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon for a city tour. Visit the 19th-century Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the former Presidential Palace (Reunification Palace). Conclude the day with a visit to the War Remnants Museum and the lively Ben Thanh Market.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Transport: Car/Boat
After breakfast, set out for a full-day exploration of the Mekong Delta, one of the most picturesque river systems in the world. Drive to Cai Be, where you’ll board a boat to explore the Cai Be floating market and visit local villages. Stop at a candy factory and an orchard garden, where you’ll enjoy traditional Vietnamese music.
After a relaxing lunch at a riverside restaurant, take a motorized boat to explore the fluvial islands, where you can cycle through the tranquil countryside. Return to the pier at Vinh Long and drive to Can Tho for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City - Bangkok
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car/Flight/Boat
Start the day with a boat cruise to the famous Cai Rang floating market, the largest in the Mekong Delta. Marvel at the bustling activity as local farmers trade their goods on the water. Afterward, venture deeper into the countryside, passing traditional homes and observing the local way of life.
Return to Can Tho for lunch before driving back to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for your flight to Bangkok. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to your hotel in Bangkok for an overnight stay.
Day 11: Bangkok City Tour
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car/Boat
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic long-tail boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, often called the "River of Kings." As you navigate through the lively inner canals, get a glimpse of local life and enjoy breathtaking views. Your first stop is Wat Arun, the stunning "Temple of Dawn," known for its towering spires and beautiful riverside setting.
Next, visit the Grand Palace, an architectural wonder dedicated to the Thai Royal Family’s ceremonies. Marvel at the intricate details of this sacred site. Just nearby is Wat Phra Kaew, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, one of Thailand’s most venerated religious artifacts. After exploring the palace complex, drive through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, stopping at significant temples along the way. Visit Wat Traimit, where the famous Golden Buddha, a stunning solid gold statue, resides. Continue to Wat Pho, home to the impressive Reclining Buddha, a symbol of peace and serenity. After a full day of cultural exploration, return to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening in Bangkok.
Day 12: Bangkok to Chiang Rai
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car/Flight
After breakfast, transfer to Bangkok airport for your flight to Chiang Rai, a serene town in Northern Thailand. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the world-famous Golden Triangle, where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. Enjoy panoramic views of the Mekong River and visit the House of Opium for insights into the history of the opium trade in this region.
Embark on a boat trip along the Mekong River, making a stop at Don Sao Village in Laos for a quick cultural exchange and some souvenir shopping. Afterward, continue to Mae Sai, Thailand’s northernmost point, where you’ll visit the bustling local market filled with products from Myanmar. After a day of exploration, transfer to your hotel in Chiang Rai for an evening of leisure.
Day 13: Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before driving through the scenic countryside to Chiang Mai, Thailand’s cultural capital. Upon arrival, visit the sacred Doi Suthep Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Thailand. Perched 3,500 feet above sea level, Doi Suthep offers a panoramic view of Chiang Mai city and houses a gleaming golden pagoda containing relics of the Lord Buddha.
After lunch, visit the Bor Sang and San Kamphaeng villages, renowned for their traditional handicrafts. Here, you’ll find everything from exquisite silk products to handmade umbrellas and ceramics. Later, check into your hotel in Chiang Mai and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Day 14: Chiang Mai to Phuket
Meals: Breakfast
Transport: Car/Flight
After breakfast, spend the morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for your flight to Phuket, with a layover in Bangkok. Upon arrival in Phuket, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Day 15: Phuket Free Day
Meals: Breakfast
Spend the day at your leisure, soaking up the sun on Phuket’s world-famous beaches. Whether you choose to relax on the golden sands of Patong, Kata, or Karon Beach, or explore the vibrant nightlife and shopping, the day is yours to enjoy this tropical paradise.
Day 16: Phuket Free Day
Meals: Breakfast
Another day of leisure in Phuket. Enjoy water sports, take a boat tour to nearby islands such as the Phi Phi Islands or Similan Islands, or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating Thai massage. The possibilities are endless for relaxation or adventure.
Day 17: Phuket - Bangkok Departure
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy your remaining free time in Phuket to wrap up any last-minute shopping or sightseeing. At the designated time, your guide will transfer you to Phuket airport for your flight back to Bangkok, where you will catch your onward departure flight. Safe travels and see you again soon!