13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand: Perfect Itinerary for 2024

Spending 13 days in Vietnam and Thailand will definitely bring you an unforgettable experience. These two Southeast Asian gems, with their rich culture, mouth-watering cuisines, and marvelous natural wonders, promise you a remarkable adventure. In this article, we will help you to prepare for your trip with all the essentials you need, including itineraries and other important information.

Is 13 Days Enough to Visit Vietnam and Thailand?

Vietnam and Thailand have always been famous for their rich histories, diverse cultures, and beautiful landscapes from serene beaches, vibrant cities, and lush highlands. Therefore, 13 days for a trip to explore every corner of the two countries might seem a bit ambitious.

However, with a well-structured plan, 13 days can be enough for you to experience the major highlights of Vietnam and Thailand. Although you might not be able to discover both countries inside and out, you can still engage with the local culture and savor iconic dishes.

Best Time to Spend 13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand

Between November and April, Vietnam puts on its sunniest face. Up north in places like Hanoi, you’ll find a cool, crisp climate, while central spots like Da Nang and Hoi An bathe in gentle warmth and blue skies. Down south, in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s all about sun-soaked days – just right for those beach moments.

When it comes to Thailand, it’s pretty much a sunny party all year. But if you want to catch it at its best, circle November to February on your calendar. During these months, the rain takes a break, and the heat dials down a notch, making it lovely for exploring. Whether you’re wandering through Bangkok’s bustling streets or soaking up rays in Phuket or Koh Samui, you’re in for a treat.

Therefore, if you’re planning to spend 13 fantastic days exploring both Vietnam and Thailand, aiming for the November to February window would be a strategic move. Not only will you avoid heavy monsoons, but you’ll also experience both countries in their full splendor, with agreeable weather complementing your journey.

Ideal Itineraries for 13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand

Itinerary 1: Immerse Yourself in the Magnificent Nature and Beautiful Beaches

Day 1 – Hanoi Arrival: Arrive in Hanoi and enjoy your free time. In the evening, watch the Water Puppet Show before having a welcome dinner.

Day 2 – Hanoi City Tour: Discover Hanoi’s beauty with a tour on a Minsk motorbike and enjoy dinner with a local family.

Day 3 – Muong Ethnic Village Adventure in Ba Vi: You will venture into the Muong Ethnic Village in Ba Vi. Engage in a cycling tour, a boat trip on the Da River, and a cooking class.

Day 4 – Lan Ha Bay: Embark on an overnight cruise to Lan Ha Bay and visit Ba Trai Dao Beach (Three Peach Beach) before having dinner on board.

Day 5 – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City: Morning activities on deck and fly to Ho Chi Minh City in the afternoon.

Day 6 – Ho Chi Minh City & Cu Chi Tunnels by Speedboat: Start the Ho Chi Minh City Tour with a speedboat trip to Cu Chi Tunnels and then visit notable architectural sites.

Day 7 – Mekong Delta Excursion: Journey to the Mekong Delta and fly to Bangkok in the evening.

Day 8 – Spiritual Tour in Bangkok and Ayutthaya: Visit a system of temples in Bangkok and visit Ayutthaya Ancient City.

Day 9 – Ko Kret’s Cultural Immersion: Set off for Ko Kret. Here you will visit an ancient temple, a local museum, and a pottery house, and learn to make a traditional sweet pancake.

Day 10 – Ko Samet Sunset: You will travel from Ko Kret to Ko Samet. Enjoy the sunset on Ao Prao Beach and dine in a local restaurant.

Day 11 – Ko Samet Exploring: Explore Ko Samet, and visit Khao Laem Ya National Park and Wat Ko Samet.

Day 12 – Relax at Ko Samet: Enjoy relaxation on Ko Samet beat and visit highlight attractions.

Day 13 – Back to Bangkok for Departure: Conclude your adventure by traveling from Ko Samet back to Bangkok for departure.

>>> Check out our 13 Days Vietnam Thailand Amazing Vacation Tour for more details 

Itinerary 2: Discover All Highlights in Thailand and Vietnam

Day 1 – Arrive in Bangkok: Bangkok arrival and enjoy free time in Bangkok.

Day 2 – Bangkok’s Gems: Embark on a Bangkok Half-day City Tour, visiting Wat Traimit, Wat Po, and the Royal Grand Palace.

Day 3 – Chiang Rai Discovery: You will fly to Chiang Rai from Bangkok, and then explore the famous Wat Rong Khun here.

Day 4 – Golden Triangle: Visit the Golden Triangle viewpoint and the Hall of Opium in the morning. You will travel to Chiang Mai in the afternoon.

Day 5 – Chiang Mai’s Temple Trail: Half-day exploration in Chiang Mai, visit Wat Suan Dok, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Chiang Man.

Day 6 – Hanoi Arrival & City Highlights Tour: Fly to Hanoi in the morning and join the Hanoi city tour, stopping by attraction highlights in the city.

Day 7 – Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise: Travel to Ha Long Bay and board an overnight cruise, enjoying onboard activities.

Day 8 – From Ha Long to Hoi An: After breakfast on the cruise, you will head to Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi for a flight to Da Nang to get to Hoi An.

Day 9 – Half-Day Walking Tour: Half-day walking tour of Hoi An, visiting historical sites, tasting local drinks, and shopping.

Day 10 – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City: Free morning in Hoi An before flying to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 11 – Cu Chi Tunnels: After breakfast, visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about the underground networks and war history.

Day 12 – Mekong Delta Cruise & Local Exploration: Cruise the Mekong Delta, taste local delights, and explore regional businesses and nature spots.

Day 13 – Journey Ends: Depart from Ho Chi Minh City, end of the journey.

Itinerary 3: Enjoy Magnificent Beaches from Hanoi to Phuket

Day 1 – Hanoi Arrival: Arrive in Hanoi, free time for relaxation and exploration

Day 2 – Hanoi City Exploration: Full-day Hanoi city tour, visiting historic sites like the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, and experiencing the Old Quarter.

Day 3 – Halong Bay Cruise: Travel to Halong Bay for an overnight luxury cruise with savory cuisine and a grandeur landscape.

Day 4 – Da Nang & Hoi An Arrival: Morning on the cruise, then fly to Da Nang to get to Hoi An – a UNESCO World Heritage Old Quarter Town.

Day 5 – Hoi An Activities: You can choose one among three activities: cooking class, farm activities, or countryside biking.

Day 6 – Free Day in Hoi An: Enjoy your free day in Hoi An for personal exploration or relaxation on the beach.

Day 7 – Head to Ho Chi Minh City: Depart from Hoi An for the flight from Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 8 – Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh Tour: Day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels and visit historical sites in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 9 – Mekong Delta Adventure: Excursion to the Mekong Delta. Visit the Vinh Trang Pagoda, take a boat ride on the Mekong River, and engage in local activities.

Day 10 – Phuket & Fantasea Show: Flight from Saigon to Phuket. Attend the Phuket Fantasea show with dinner in the evening.

Day 11 – Phi Phi & Surrounding Islands: Full-day speedboat trip to Phi Phi, Maya, and Khai Nok Islands.

Day 12 – Leisure Day in Phuket: Free day in Phuket for relaxation or optional island trips.

Day 13 – Departure from Phuket: Depart from Phuket, end of the tour.

Best Food to Savor in Vietnam and Thailand in 13 Days

Embarking on 13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand, your taste buds are in for a treat. These two countries offer an array of culinary delights that will impress you from the very first bite.

In Vietnam, don’t miss out on the chance to savor the famous Pho (Vietnamese Noodles), the Vietnamese morning ritual. You can try Pho with beef or chicken, it’s all divine. Besides, Banh Mi (Vietnamese Bread) and Goi Cuon (Summer Rolls) are also must-try dishes. The perfect combination of ingredients including vegetables, meat, and sauce will definitely bring you an unforgettable dining experience.

Savory Food for 13 Days in Vietnam and Thailand

Moreover, during your time in Thailand, don’t forget to savor the delicious dishes of this country. Pad Thai, the iconic noodle dish, is absolutely one of the must-tries. Additionally, Tom Yum Goong is also a perfect dish for you to savor. This spicy shrimp soup with its heady mix of lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves will tantalize your taste buds with its spicy, sour, and savory notes. For dessert, you should not miss out on the Mango Sticky Rice, where sweet ripe mangoes are paired with glutinous rice that’s been soaked in rich coconut milk.

What to Bring Along in Your Luggage

If you are still wondering what to pack for a trip to Vietnam and Thailand in 13 days, let IDC Travel help you list out the items you should bring along.

• Clothing essentials: As both Thailand and Vietnam are tropical countries, the weather can be a bit unpredictable. Pack some comfy, light clothes for the sticky, humid days.
• Comfortable footwear: You will be walking a lot while stopping by famous visiting sites. A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sandals will be your best pals. If you are going to the beaches, flip-flops are a must.
• Sun Protection: Bring on the shades, sun hats, and sunscreen. The sun in Vietnam and Thailand doesn’t play around, and you’ll thank yourself for the extra layer of protection.
• Medication: A basic first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medication is always a good idea. While pharmacies are readily available, it’s easier when you have the basics on hand.

We trust that the details provided above will assist you in mapping out your journey in Vietnam and Thailand in 13 days. Why wait? Start prepping for your adventure! Should you require help in crafting the perfect journey, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d love to design an itinerary just for you. Thanks so much for giving this a read!