Looking for a romantic holiday in Southeast Asia? Indochina has some of the most beautiful and peaceful places for couples to enjoy together. With this list, planning your romantic getaway just got easier. From Vietnam to Cambodia, Laos to Thailand, here are the top 8 romantic destinations in Indochina that couples love.
Why is Indochina a dream destination for couples?
Indochina is the perfect place for a romantic getaway, offering the perfect mix of culture, adventure, relaxation and natural beauty. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just traveling with that special someone, the region has a little bit of everything, from beautiful beaches and tranquil mountains to rich culture and great food. What makes Indochina so special and loved by many couples is its diversity. Whether you’re cruising Halong Bay, strolling the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An or relaxing on the quiet islands of Thailand, each destination, each country has its own charm and identity. Everything here seems slower and more peaceful, allowing you to slow down and enjoy quality time together.
Romantic ride through Hoi An Ancient Town
Another big plus is Indochina’s affordability and accessibility. You don’t have to spend a fortune. Many hotels, guesthouses, and even beach villas and luxury hotels here are much more affordable than elsewhere in the world, so you can enjoy other activities on your trip without breaking the bank. Plus, getting into the region is easier. Many nationalities can enter Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand with an e-visa or visa-free for short-term stays. For example, Vietnam offers visa-free entry to citizens of a number of countries (up to 45 days for some), while Cambodia and Laos both offer easy visa-on-arrival or eVisa systems. Thailand also offers visa-free entry to dozens of countries.
One thing that makes many couples love Indochina even more is the warmth, not only due to its tropical weather but also the people here. They are incredibly friendly and hospitable, making you feel at home wherever you go.
Top 8 romantic destinations in Indochina to visit
Phuket Island, Thailand
Couple on a boat at Phi Phi Islands, Phuket
As the largest and most developed island in Thailand, Phuket is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway that still has plenty of action. Located in the Andaman Sea, off the west coast of Thailand, the island is always bustling with tourists who love to party and explore the islands. From nightlife to Muay Thai matches and street shopping, Phuket has it all, with Patong Beach being the main focus. Water activities are also plentiful at all the main beaches, including diving, surfing, sea kayaking, sailing, fishing, snorkeling and more.
Another great thing about Phuket is that it is not far from quieter islands and beaches like Koh Phi Phi and Ao Nang. If you want to get away from Phuket for a day or two, you can easily catch a ferry from there to a completely new island.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Take a longtail boat tour to Phi Phi or James Bond Island
- Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise around Phang Nga Bay
- Sip cocktails at the stylish Baba Nest rooftop bar
- Relax with a beachfront couples’ spa session
> > > Want to make the most of your time in Phuket? Don’t miss our guide to the top things to do in Phuket for the ultimate island getaway, from hidden beaches to unforgettable adventures.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
The magical night at Yi Peng lantern festival in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, nicknamed the “Rose of the North” for its beauty and charm, is a great destination if you and your partner are looking for an unforgettable combination of adventure, culture and relaxation. Nestled in a beautiful valley, surrounded by fields, orchards and forested mountains, Chiang Mai offers a variety of outdoor adventures, such as river rafting, jungle trekking, and more. Also, visit the Night Bazaar. You’ll find a shopping paradise, where street vendors sell everything from novelty items to handmade Thai silk.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Visit Doi Suthep Temple at sunset
- Spend a day at an ethical elephant sanctuary
- Take a Thai cooking class together
- Walk around the Old Town and night markets
- Enjoy spa treatments with forest views or a relaxing jungle retreat
Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui has lots of beautiful and pristine beaches, perfect for who loves a relaxing holiday
Koh Samui is also a popular destination for beach-loving couples, but it’s a little more laid-back and less crowded than Phuket. You’ll be enchanted by the captivating blue waters, white sand beaches, swaying coconut trees and majestic cliffs. There are also many other small islands around the main island of Koh Samui for visitors to explore. The crescent-shaped beach of Chaweng is the hub of sea, sand and shopping during the day, and is also famous for its bustling nightlife. If you’re looking for a little more peace and quiet, head to the southern tip of Chaweng Noi. There are also plenty of water activities, including kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Relax on quiet beaches like Silver Beach or Maenam
- Take a private boat trip to Ang Thong Marine Park
- Enjoy a beachfront couple’s massage
- Hike to hidden waterfalls like Na Muang
- Dine on fresh seafood by the sea at sunset
> > > To turn these romantic moments into an unforgettable adventure, don’t miss our “Journey of Love to Vietnam and Thailand in 17 Days”, a handpicked itinerary designed for couples ready to explore, relax, and fall in love all over again.
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Romantic cruise through Halong Bay at sunset
To admire the stunning scenery of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and experience a relaxing and enjoyable holiday, a cruise on Halong Bay in northern Vietnam is the perfect choice for couples. Lie down on the loungers or sit on the private balcony of your cabin to enjoy the beauty and romance of the bay. Besides, there are also many activities to do such as a Tai Chi class on the deck, a foot massage and a fun cooking class, or visit a fishing village, swimming, kayaking and exploring magnificent caves.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Overnight cruise with a private balcony
- Kayak through caves and hidden lagoons
- Watch the sunrise during a morning Tai Chi session
- Visit floating fishing villages
- Enjoy a candlelit dinner on deck
Hoi An, Vietnam
Lantern releasing on the Thu Bon River
Consistently listed as one of the most romantic destinations in the region and the world, Hoi An is a unique and peaceful historic town in central Vietnam. The streets of Hoi An are lined with ancient buildings and tailor shops hung with colorful lanterns. At night, the streets are lit up with lanterns, creating an extremely romantic and poetic scene. Stroll along the Thu Bon River to see the lantern-lit streets or release your own lantern into the river if you wish.
Besides, Hoi An has beautiful beaches nearby such as Cua Dai Beach or go to An Bang Beach. Take an eco-tour on the Cua Dai River, learn how to cast a fishing net from local fishermen, then row a traditional round bamboo “basket boat”…
Must-try activities for couples:
- Walk or cycle through the Ancient Town
- Take a private boat ride on the Thu Bon River
- Join a lantern-making or cooking class
- Get tailor-made outfits together
- Dine riverside under glowing lanterns
> > > If Vietnam sounds like your kind of romantic escape, let’s explore our Vietnam honeymoon tours that will take you from peaceful beaches to charming ancient towns, perfect for couples who want both relaxation and adventure, all in one unforgettable trip.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The magnificent scene at sunset at Angkor Wat
As the gateway to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, Siem Reap is one of the most captivating places in Southeast Asia for couples to experience a one-of-a-kind trip that is both historical and cultural. These centuries-old temples are sure to give everyone an unforgettable experience of Khmer architecture and Cambodia’s rich history. Besides the temples, the laid-back suburban vibe also adds to the charm of this city, making everyone who visits feel relaxed and let go of all their stress and worries.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Visit Angkor Wat at sunrise
- Explore the jungle-covered temples together
- Watch a traditional Apsara dance performance
- Relax at a resort with a private pool
- Enjoy a couples spa treatment after a temple walk
Bagan, Myanmar
Floating above love, hot air balloons in Bagan
Bagan is one of the most impressive places in Southeast Asia. Imagine yourself in an ancient city, surrounded by thousands of ancient temples – a sight comparable to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. As the former capital of Myanmar, there are still many architectural works of ancient civilizations, preserving the values of Buddhist culture located on the poetic Ayeyarwady River.
The atmosphere is comfortable, quiet and peaceful. Explore the temples with your loved one on a horse-drawn carriage or ox-cart, enjoying the quiet and peaceful atmosphere completely separate from urban life. Watch the sunrise over misty Bagan at the top of one of the pagodas. Stroll or cycle around the temples in the afternoon and enjoy a peaceful time, just you and your lover. You can also rent a hot air balloon to enjoy the beautiful panoramic view from above.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Hot air balloon ride over the temples
- Explore temple ruins by e-bike
- Take a sunset cruise on the Irrawaddy River
- Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a riverside restaurant
Luang Prabang, Laos
Kuang Si Waterfall, one of the most favorite destinations in Luang Prabang
Set amidst lush green mountains and the gentle flow of the Mekong River, Luang Prabang is a stunning 19th-century French-built town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site feels like stepping back in time, with its mix of gilded Buddhist temples, French colonial buildings and vibrant morning and night markets. For couples and honeymooners, Luang Prabang offers a peaceful alternative to busier beach or city destinations, truly allowing you to de-stress and reconnect. There are no big resorts or flashy attractions. Instead, you’ll find elegant boutique hotels, tranquil waterfalls, traditional restaurants and artisan shops.
Must-try activities for couples:
- Sunset Mekong River Cruise
- Visit Kuang Si Falls for a dip and picnic
- Explore golden temples hand in hand
- Enjoy French-Lao fusion meals in colonial villas
- Stay at a riverside boutique hotel
> > > If you can’t decide where to go for your honeymoon or couple’s trip, why not explore the best of Indochina all in one journey? From Vietnam’s scenic bays to Cambodia’s ancient wonders and Laos’ peaceful charm, our Indochina tours will bring together the region’s most romantic highlights, perfect for couples who want it all.
Tips for planning the perfect romantic holiday
Planning a romantic trip to Indochina? Here are some simple tips to help you and your partner enjoy every moment together.
- Choose the right time to travel: although most countries in Indochina have a tropical climate, for the best weather conditions, travel during the dry season from November to April. During this time, the temperature is not too high, the sky is clear with a little sunshine and there is almost no rain, suitable for all outdoor activities.
- Choose a destination that suits your interests: not all couples have the same travel preferences, fortunately, Indochina has many destinations that meet all your needs and interests. If you are confused about which destination is the most suitable, you can ask for help from local experts. They can help you plan the most suitable schedule, ensure a smooth trip and you may not find it on your own.
- Choose cozy accommodations: look for boutique hotels, cozy bungalows or villas with private pools for more privacy and romance. If you let them know about your honeymoon in advance, they may decorate your room extra special or have special deals for couples.
- Add a few romantic surprises: surprise your partner with a private dinner on the beach, a couples spa treatment or a beautiful sunset cruise on the bay. These little touches will make your trip together feel great, creating special memories for both of you.
- Pack for comfort and bonding: pack clothes that are appropriate for the weather at your destination and the places you will visit. If your itinerary includes cultural attractions or temples, bring formal clothes or scarves to cover up. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments of your trip.
We hope this list of best romantic destinations in Indochina will help you find the perfect place to celebrate your love, whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary or a getaway together. Indochina is full of hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that bring couples closer together, and there’s no better place to write your next romantic chapter. Ready to start planning? Contact us for a trip filled with beauty, connection and lasting memories.
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