Let’s go for a journey through Southeast Asia, a region where ancient traditions seamlessly intertwine with modern cityscapes. In the heart of this diverse area lie Vietnam and Cambodia, two distinct gems each boasting a unique tapestry of history and culture. This trip of 14 days in Vietnam and Cambodia is an invitation to an extraordinary adventure, from the ethereal beauty of Ha Long Bay to the grandeur of Angkor’s temples. Planning a trip that encapsulates the essence of both countries might seem overwhelming, but don’t worry! Our meticulously crafted guide is here to lead you through each day of your exploration. We ensure that you’ll experience all the highlights while also uncovering hidden gems to enrich your journey. Perfect for solo explorers, couples, families, or groups of friends, our guide is tailored to help you deeply immerse in the wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia in 14 days, making every moment count. Prepare yourself for an epic exploration of two of Asia’s most captivating countries!
How to Pack for a Trip to Vietnam & Cambodia in 2 Weeks?
Packing for an adventure of 14 days in Vietnam and Cambodia requires careful planning due to the diverse climates and activities you might undertake.
Luggage Packing Consideration
Clothing
- Light and breathable clothing: Both countries are generally warm and humid. Choose cotton T-shirts, shorts, and lightweight pants.
- Rainwear: If traveling during the rainy season, bring a lightweight raincoat or poncho.
- A light jacket: For cooler evenings, especially if you plan to visit mountainous regions like Sapa in Vietnam.
- Temple-appropriate clothing: If visiting temples (like Angkor Wat in Cambodia), ensure you have clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Swimwear: For the beach or hotel pool.
Shoes
- Sandals or flip-flops: Ideal for the beach or city strolls.
- Comfortable walking shoes: If you plan to hike or take long walks.
Essentials
- First aid kit: Include bandages, diarrhea medication, pain relievers, etc.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Electrical plug adapters: Outlets can vary between the two countries.
- Chargers and adapters for your electronic devices.
Personal Hygiene
- Personal hygiene products: While available locally, bring your own if you have specific preferences.
- Toiletry bag: Containing shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc.
Miscellaneous
- Travel guides and maps: For Vietnam and Cambodia.
- Waterproof bag: To protect your belongings on rainy days or during water activities.
- Sunglasses and hat.
- Photocopies of important documents: Like your passport, visa, flight tickets, etc.
- Plastic bags or compression bags: To separate dirty from clean clothes or to save space.
Money and Documents
- Local currencies: You should also have local currencies for small expenses.
- Credit/debit cards: Make sure to inform your bank of your travel dates.
- Passport and visa: Keep them safe and carry photocopies with you.
Itinerary Suggestions for 14 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia
Itinerary 1: Family Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in 14 Days
Day 1 – Arrival in Hanoi: Arrive and settle in Hanoi, with a welcome buffet dinner.
Day 2 – Hanoi City Tour: Embark on a full-day tour of Hanoi, visiting historical landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Ethnology Museum. Experience the city’s rich culture and history.
Day 3 – Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise: Travel to Halong Bay for a scenic cruise, visiting Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island.
Day 4 – Halong Bay to Hue: Morning activities in Halong Bay, then travel to Hue for an overnight stay.
Day 5 – Hue City Tour: Discover Hue’s Royal Citadel, Khai Dinh Tomb, and other historical landmarks.
Day 6 – Hue to Hoi An: Scenic drive to Hoi An, stopping at key spots, followed by a walking tour of the town.
Day 7 – Leisure Day in Hoi An: Free day for personal exploration and relaxation in Hoi An.
Day 8 – Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City: Morning at leisure, then fly to Ho Chi Minh City for the evening.
Day 9 – Ho Chi Minh City Tour: A comprehensive city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, visiting key sites like Ben Thanh Market, China Town, and the War Remnants Museum.
Day 10 – Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta: Journey to the Mekong Delta, exploring Cai Be’s floating market and experiencing local life on a boat trip through the river canals.
Day 11 – Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap: Fly to Siem Reap and tour the Small Circuit of temples.
Day 12 – Siem Reap – Angkor Thom: Visit the grand Angkor Thom complex and the iconic Angkor Wat, immersing in the ancient Khmer civilization.
Day 13 – Siem Reap – Great Lake: Watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, visit various temples, and enjoy a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake.
Day 14 – Departure from Siem Reap: Conclude the journey with a departure from Siem Reap.
>>> Consult the Vacation package for the Family from Vietnam to Cambodia in 14 days
Itinerary 2: Wonders of Southeast Asia – Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand
Day 1 – Arrival in Bangkok: Land in Bangkok, Thailand, and explore the city’s history, culture, and cuisine after settling into your hotel.
Day 2 – Floating Markets and City Tour: Visit Khlong Lat Mayom floating market, explore Wat Arun and Wat Pho temples, and shop at Chatuchak Market.
Day 3 – Fly to Chiang Mai, Temple Exploration: Travel to Chiang Mai and visit historic temples like Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man.
Day 4 – Elephant Sanctuary and Cooking Class: Interact with elephants at a rescue center and participate in a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai.
Day 5 – Fly to Phuket: Arrive in Phuket for relaxation and exploration of its Old Town and beaches.
Day 6 – Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat: Explore Phi Phi Islands, including Maya Beach, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Bamboo Island.
Day 7 – Fly to Siem Reap: Travel to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and settle into your hotel.
Day 8 – Angkor Wat Full-Day Tour: Discover the ruins of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, followed by a Buddhist monk blessing ceremony.
Day 9 – Fly to Hanoi: Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam, and explore the Old Quarter and local culture.
Day 10 – Ha Long Bay Overnight Cruise: Journey to Ha Long Bay for a scenic cruise with activities like swimming and kayaking.
Day 11 – Morning Cruise, Fly to Da Nang: Enjoy a morning cruise in Ha Long Bay before flying to Da Nang.
Day 12 – Explore Da Nang and Golden Bridge: Visit the Golden Bridge and Linh Tu Pagoda at Ba Na Hill in Da Nang.
Day 13 – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, City Tour: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City for a half-day tour of key landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and War Remnants Museum.
Day 14 – Depart Ho Chi Minh City: Conclude your journey with a sunrise walk in Ho Chi Minh City and depart for home.
>>> You might find this Southeast Asia 14 Days Tour through Thailand Cambodia & Vietnam helpful.
Itinerary 3: Must-Visits in Vietnam and Cambodia in 14 Days
Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi: Arrive in Hanoi, Vietnam. Transfer to the hotel and explore the city, including the One Pillar Pagoda.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour and Overnight Train to Lao Cai: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before a guided tour of Hanoi’s historical sites, including the Temple of Literature and Ba Dinh Square. Experience the poetic Thanh Nien Road and the sixth-century Tran Quoc Buddhist pagoda. After lunch, prepare for an overnight train journey to Lao Cai.
Day 3: Lao Cai to Sapa, Visit Lao Chai, and Ta Van: Arrive early in Lao Cai and drive to Sapa. Explore the breathtaking terraced rice fields of Lao Chai and the traditional Black H’mong houses. After a light breakfast, hike to the villages of Lao Chai and Y Linh Ho, then continue to Ta Van village. Overnight in Sapa.
Day 4: Sapa Exploration and Return to Hanoi: After breakfast, check out and hike to Cat Cat Village, admiring a stunning waterfall and French-era hydroelectric ruins. Continue to Sin Chai village at the top of Mount Fansipan. Return to Sapa and take a shuttle back to Hanoi overnight.
Day 5: Hanoi to Halong Bay Overnight Cruise: Shuttle from Hanoi to the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay for an overnight cruise.
Day 6: Halong Bay to Hanoi, Flight to Danang, Transfer to Hoi An: Morning in Halong Bay, fly from Hanoi to Danang, and transfer to Hoi An.
Day 7: Hoi An City Tour: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before a guided walk through Hoi An’s ancient streets. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge and the Fujian Community Meeting Hall. Explore local craft shops and relax at your hotel.
Day 8: Hoi An to Hue: Travel to Hue via the Hai Van Pass and check into a hotel.
Day 9: Half-Day City Tour in Hue: Visit Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, and Dong Ba Market in Hue.
Day 10: Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, City Tour: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City after breakfast. In the afternoon, tour key historical sites, including the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum. Evening free to explore the city.
Day 11: Mekong Delta Day Trip: Explore the Mekong Delta with a cruise and local visits in Ben Tre province.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, Cambodia.
Day 13: Explore Siem Reap, Ta Prohm, Angkor Wat, and Phnom Bakheng: Tour Ta Prohm, Angkor Thom, and Angkor Wat, and watch the sunset at Phnom Bakheng.
Day 14: Departure from Siem Reap: Last morning in Cambodia before departure from Siem Reap Airport.
How to Book Your International Flights?
During 14 days in Vietnam and Cambodia, booking international flights between these two countries is a relatively straightforward process, thanks to modern technology.
Research and Planning
- Determine your dates: Have a clear idea of your travel dates to get the most accurate fares.
- Main airports: In Vietnam, the main international airports are located in Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport). In Cambodia, it’s Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport.
Using Flight Search Engines
Flight Search Engines
- Popular websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, Expedia, Google Flights, and others can help compare fares from different carriers.
- Consider using your browser’s incognito or private mode to avoid price increases based on cookies.
Consulting Airline Websites
- Sometimes, booking directly on an airline’s website can offer better rates or special deals.
- Major airlines serving Vietnam and Cambodia include Vietnam Airlines, Cambodia Angkor Air, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and others.
Special Considerations
- Stopovers: Some flights may have stopovers. Ensure you check the duration and location of the stopover.
- Luggage: Check the airline’s baggage policy, especially for checked and carry-on luggage.
- Onboard services: If you have specific preferences or needs (like special meals), check them before booking.
Booking Your Flights
- Once you’ve chosen your flight, follow the steps on the booking site or the airline’s website.
- Pay with a credit card or any other accepted payment method.
- You’ll typically receive a confirmation email with all your flight details.
Preparing Necessary Documents
- Ensure you have a valid passport for the duration of your trip, and depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter Vietnam and Cambodia.
- Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or an e-visa for these countries, but check the requirements before you leave.
Check-in
- Most airlines offer the option to check in online 24 to 48 hours before the flight, which can save you time at the airport.
Recommended Budget Plan for 14 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia
Estimating a budget for a trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in 14 days depends on many factors such as travel style (luxury, mid-range, economical), planned activities, travel season, etc.
Budget Consideration
- Round-trip Flights:
- From Europe or the United States to Vietnam: 600 to 1,200 USD.
- Internal or transfer flights between Vietnam and Cambodia: 100 to 250 USD.
- Accommodation: Mid-range hotels: 30 to 60 USD per night (i.e., 390 to 780 USD for 14 days/13 nights)
- Dining: Meals at local restaurants and occasionally at higher-end restaurants: 10 to 20 USD per day (i.e., 140 to 280 USD for 14 days).
- Local Transportation (trains, buses, taxis): Approximately 100 to 200 USD for the two weeks.
- Activities and Entrance Fees: Visits to historical sites, museums, excursions, etc.: 100 to 300 USD for the entire trip.
- Other Expenses (souvenirs, tips, etc.): Approximately 50 to 150 USD for the entire trip.
The total budget for an average traveler could thus be between 1,545 USD and 3,060 USD for a 14-day tour between Vietnam and Cambodia.
In conclusion, this step-by-step guide for a tour of Vietnam and Cambodia in 14 days will allow you to have an unforgettable experience. These two countries offer a unique combination of culture, history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine. By following this itinerary, you have all the keys to create precious memories and explore these fascinating destinations. Whether your trip is focused on history, nature, or discovering new cultures, Vietnam and Cambodia promise an exceptional adventure. Don’t hesitate to contact us to plan your tailor-made 14-day trip to Vietnam and Cambodia!
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