Wonders of Southeast Asia 14 Days: Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

Welcome to Thailand! The country, formerly known as Siam, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 13th century.

The first destination in your Southeast Asia 14 days itinerary is Bangkok. This is a bustling metropolis and a major global city. It is renowned for its vibrant street life, bustling markets, and iconic landmarks. The cityscape is adorned with numerous historic wats or Buddhist temples, which are integral to the city’s cultural fabric.

Upon arrival in Bangkok, you’ll be picked up by a driver, and he will transfer you to your hotel. Once you have settled in, you can embark on a self-guided tour to explore Bangkok’s history, culture, and cuisine.

MBK Shopping Center Bangkok

Included: Transportation,  Accommodation, Meals: dinner.

The 2nd day of your Southeast Asia 14 days tour is a full-day trip to explore the city. Start the day with a visit to one of Bangkok’s floating markets, Khlong Lat Mayom Market. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel and take you on a boat ride along the khlongs (canals) to reach the market. Once you arrive, you’ll find a vibrant and bustling market with vendors selling fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, seafood, and a variety of local products. Unlike some of the more touristy markets, the market retains an authentic charm and a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to interact with locals and observe their way of life.

Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

Continuing with your half-day city tour, visiting iconic temples, and exploring the vibrant market will provide you with a deeper understanding of Bangkok’s cultural heritage. Stop at Wat Arun, located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. Its prominent feature is the central spire, which stands at an impressive height of 259 feet (79 meters). Then hop on a ferry, and you’ll arrive at Wat Pho, one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok. Wat Pho is renowned for housing the famous Reclining Buddha, a massive statue measuring 150 feet (46 meters) in length. Conclude your city tour with a visit to Chatuchak Market, one of the largest weekend markets in Bangkok. With approximately 15,000 vendor stalls, the market offers a wide range of goods, including clothing, accessories, handicrafts, antiques, and much more. You can find some souvenirs to bring back home and sample the delicious street food for a meal.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport and catch a one-hour flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai holds great historical importance as the former capital of the independent Lanna Kingdom, which ruled from 1296 to 1558. The city’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved ancient walls, moats, and numerous Buddhist temples. The Old City, Chiang Mai’s historic center, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into the region’s past.

Arriving in Chiang Mai and exploring the city at your own pace is a great way to soak in the local atmosphere and discover the unique charm of this ancient city. You can start at Wat Phra Singh. Built in the 14th century, this temple houses a highly venerated Buddha image and showcases intricate Lanna-style architecture. From there, make your way to Wat Chedi Luang, which is just a short walk away. This temple is home to the largest chedi (Buddhist stupa) in Chiang Mai and was originally built in the 14th century. Then, head to Wat Chiang Man, the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the late 13th century. This temple is known for its unique architecture, beautiful gardens, and ancient scriptures.

Wat Phra Singh Temple

After immersing yourself in the spiritual ambiance of the temples, you can walk to Worarot Market, the largest municipal market in Chiang Mai. Here, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with stalls selling fresh produce, preserved foods, local snacks, clothing, flowers, and various souvenirs. In the evening, don’t forget to stroll through the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Located along Chang Khlan Road, this bustling market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide array of handicrafts, paintings, clothing, accessories, and more.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

In the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the elephant rescue center located outside the city. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a mahout, an experienced elephant caretaker who will guide you through the center and introduce you to the elephants. You’ll have the opportunity to engage in various activities with the elephants, such as walking with them, bathing them, feeding them, and learning about their behavior and unique personalities. After spending a meaningful time at the elephant rescue center, you’ll return to your hotel in Chiang Mai.

Spend a memorable day with rescued elephants near Chiang Mai

The 4th day of your Southeast Asia 14 days tour concludes with a cooking class in Chiang Mai. A driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to a local market. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant market stalls, learn about regional produce, and purchase fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Then, you’ll be taken to the cooking class venue. The Lanna Thai-style decorations create an authentic setting for your culinary experience. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a brief introduction to Thai cuisine and the dishes you’ll be preparing. With the guidance of an English-speaking instructor, you’ll embark on a hands-on journey to cook traditional Thai dishes. The instructor will lead you step by step, explaining techniques, sharing cooking tips, and highlighting the flavors and ingredients unique to Thai cuisine. Later, you’ll have the chance to savor the fruits of your labor.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll take a 2-hour flight to Phuket. Upon landing at the airport, a driver will transfer you to your hotel in Phuket. Take some time to settle in and relax after your flight. Spend the rest of the day unwinding by the pool or on one of Phuket’s stunning white-sand beaches. If you’re interested in exploring a different side of Phuket, you can make a visit to the historic Old Town. Located in the heart of Phuket Town, this area is known for its colorful 19th-century shophouses and Sino-Portuguese architecture. Stroll along Thalang Road and admire the well-preserved buildings, street art, and vibrant atmosphere. There are also plenty of charming cafés, local eateries, and small shops to discover.

Phuket old town

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast.

Your 6th day in the Southeast Asia 14 days itinerary is a full-day excursion to Phi Phi islands.

In the early morning, you’ll board a speedboat that will take you to the Phi Phi Islands. The first stop on the tour is Phi Phi Lee (Maya Beach). This picturesque bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, offers a stunning setting that was featured in the movie “The Beach.” You’ll have the opportunity to swim in designated areas and admire the natural beauty of this secluded paradise.

Maya Beach

During the tour, you’ll visit other beautiful spots near Phi Phi Lee, such as Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave. As you continue your journey to the larger Phi Phi Don island, you’ll pass by Monkey Beach. The beach gets its name from the playful crab-eating macaques that live in the area. Upon arrival at Phi Phi Don, you’ll have time for snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters and then enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the late afternoon, the tour will take you to Bamboo Island, where you can relax on the sandy beach, swim in the clear waters, and soak up the tropical sun.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The next country in your Southeast Asia 14 days tour is Cambodia.

After an early breakfast, your driver will take you to the airport in Phuket and you’ll start a connecting flight to Siem Reap. After landing at Siem Reap Airport, your guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax after a long flight.

Siem Reap Night Street

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, dinner.

Your full-day tour to the ruins of Angkor Wat and other significant sites promises to be a culturally enriching experience. You’ll begin your day with an early departure to Angkor Wat, the most famous and iconic temple in the Angkor complex. Once you arrive, you’ll start a walking tour through the vast complex of Angkor Wat, immersing yourself in its galleries and libraries.

Angkor Wat

After exploring Angkor Wat, your tour will take you to the South Gate and Angkor Thom, the Great City. Inside the city walls, you’ll discover the ruins of Angkor Thom, the royal capital during the height of the Angkor period. Admire the impressive architecture, including the iconic Bayon temple with its 54 towers adorned with smiling faces of Avolokitesvara.

Your next stop is Ta Prohm, a 12th-century Buddhist temple that has been partially reclaimed by nature. After exploring the temples, you’ll return to Siem Reap and embark on a tuk-tuk ride around the town to enjoy the lively atmosphere and bustling streets. Your 8th day in the Southeast Asia 14 days itinerary culminates with a meaningful blessing ceremony conducted by a Buddhist monk in Cambodia. This traditional ceremony aims to bless you with prosperity, happiness, and a safe journey.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Your final spot in Southeast Asia 14 days tour is Vietnam, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Asia. After breakfast, you’ll board an airplane for the two-hour flight to Hanoi. Your exploration of Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, promises to be a captivating journey through history and culture.

After landing in Hanoi, a private car will transfer you to the hotel, check in and relax. If time permits, you can spend time discovering Hanoi Old Quarter before enjoying our welcome dinner.

Old Quarter- Hanoi

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, dinner.

In the morning, a shuttle will pick you up from your hotel in Hanoi, and you’ll embark on a scenic 3.5-hour journey north to Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival at the marina, you’ll board a multi-level ship that will be your home for the overnight cruise. Head to the ship’s restaurant, where a delicious lunch will be served. Indulge in a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes as you take in the panoramic views of Ha Long Bay.

Halong Bay Cruise

Then, you can spend a few hours relaxing on the sun deck or in the communal areas of the ship as you cruise across the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay. You’ll marvel at the dramatic karst limestone formations and the breathtaking scenery around you. In the afternoon, don’t forget to take part in a swim and kayak trip to explore hidden beaches, coves, and grottoes. Paddle through the pristine waters and immerse yourself in the serenity and natural wonders of Ha Long Bay. A leisurely dinner will be served on board the ship in the evening.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over Ha Long Bay is a remarkable way to start the day. You should rise early and head to the deck to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the karst islets of Ha Long Bay. Then, perhaps join an outdoor Tai Chi session, that promotes relaxation, balance, and harmony. After the Tai Chi session, enjoy a delicious al fresco breakfast on the deck as the boat continues to cruise around the magnificent karst islets. Around 11 am, the cruise ship will return to the port in Ha Long Bay. Bid farewell and disembark, concluding your Ha Long Bay experience.

A driver will be waiting to transfer you back to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi for a domestic flight to Da Nang, the next stop in your Southeast Asia 14 days itinerary. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours. Arrive in Da Nang and you’ll have free time to visit the coastal city.

Dragon Bridge – Danang

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, Meals: breakfast, lunch.

Start your day with an early wake-up call to make the most of your visit to the Golden Bridge. This iconic landmark in Da Nang offers stunning views and a unique architectural design. After breakfast, a driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the base of Ba Na Hill, where the Golden Bridge is located. Upon arrival at Ba Na Hill, you’ll transfer to the top via the Ba Na Cable Car. Enjoy the scenic ride on the longest non-stop cable car in the world, which will take you up to an elevation of 4,593 feet (1,400 m) above sea level.

Golden Bridge – Danang

Once you reach the top of Ba Na Hill, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside and coast. Take a leisurely stroll along the Golden Bridge, which is known for its unique feature of giant stone hands supporting the bridge.

While at Ba Na Hill, you can visit the Linh Tu Pagoda, a temple dedicated to the Holy Mountain Mother. Explore the intricate architecture, intricate details, and spiritual ambiance of this beautiful pagoda. Return to Da Nang in the late afternoon.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

The final spot in the Southeast Asia 14 days is Ho Chi Minh City. In the morning, check out of your hotel in Da Nang after breakfast and transfer to the airport for a short flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon). Upon arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to the hotel for check-in and taking a short break.

Notre Dame Cathedral – Ho Chi Minh City

After lunch at a local restaurant, you will start a half-day Ho Chi Minh City tour. Our tour guide will pick you up at the hotel and take you to visit the city’s main highlights, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, etc. In the evening, you can discover Bui Vien walking street if you want.

Included: Transportation, Accommodation, English-speaking guide, Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Starting your day with a sunrise walk around Ho Chi Minh City is a great way to soak in the city’s atmosphere before your departure. After the walk, return to your hotel for a leisurely breakfast to fuel up for the day. If you have some extra time before your flight, you can explore the city further and engage in some last-minute shopping.

The driver will pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the airport according to your departure flight. End of the Southeast Asia 14 days itinerary with memorable experiences.

Included: Transportation, Meals: breakfast.