Classic Hanoi to Siem Reap - 15 Days

Upon arrival in Hanoi, you'll be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy some free time before gathering for a tour briefing and welcome drinks with your fellow travellers.

After breakfast, we set off on a full-day city tour. Our first stop is Hoan Kiem Lake, a central feature of Hanoi, followed by a visit to Dong Xuan Market. We then explore the Ho Chi Minh complex, which includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace (viewed from outside), and Ho Chi Minh's former residence—a traditional stilt house nestled in tranquil gardens. Also within the complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic symbol of the city.

After breakfast, we set off on a full-day city tour. Our first stop is Hoan Kiem Lake, a central feature of Hanoi, followed by a visit to Dong Xuan Market. We then explore the Ho Chi Minh complex, which includes Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace (viewed from outside), and Ho Chi Minh's former residence—a traditional stilt house nestled in tranquil gardens. Also within the complex is the One Pillar Pagoda, a historic symbol of the city.

This morning we travel through scenic countryside to Halong City, gateway to the famed Halong Bay. On arrival, we board a well-appointed junk boat for an overnight cruise. Enjoy lunch as we begin cruising among thousands of limestone islands. In the evening, unwind in your private cabin, on the main deck, or at the bar. Overnight on board the Victoria Star (or similar).

Continue cruising through Halong Bay, followed by a leisurely brunch on board. We disembark and return to Hanoi for our flight to Danang. Upon arrival, transfer to Hoi An and enjoy an evening at leisure. Stay the next two nights at Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel & Spa (or similar).

This morning we explore Hoi An on foot, beginning at the Museum of Folk Culture. We stroll through the local market and visit the 17th-century Fujian Assembly Hall, dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess. Walking along narrow streets lined with lantern-lit shops, we arrive at the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, built by Japanese traders in the 17th century. The tour concludes with a visit to a historic house in this UNESCO-listed town. The afternoon is yours to explore—shop, visit the beach, or have clothes tailored.

Enjoy free time in Hoi An before flying to Saigon. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

This morning we visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network used during the Vietnam War. You may try crawling through a section and, optionally, test your aim at a local rifle range. After lunch at a local restaurant, we embark on a half-day tour of Saigon. We visit the former Presidential Palace, where North Vietnamese tanks famously ended the war in 1975. We continue on foot to see colonial-era landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, City Hall, the Opera House, and Dong Khoi Street. We finish with a visit to Ben Thanh Market, a hub for local goods and souvenirs.

We depart Saigon for Can Tho and board our river cruise at Ninh Kieu pier. After checking in, we enjoy lunch on board as we cruise along the Hau River and through smaller canals. In the afternoon, we go ashore to explore the peaceful Delta countryside or take an optional short cycling tour. Back on board, relax with a drink on deck as the sun sets.

The boat departs early, sailing towards Can Tho. After breakfast, we transfer to a smaller boat to visit Cai Rang floating market, followed by a visit to a local noodle factory. Returning to the pier, we continue to Binh Thuy Ancient House, noted for its blend of French and Eastern architectural styles.

After breakfast, we drive to Chau Doc. Time permitting, we visit a Khmer temple and floating houses that double as catfish farms—a key industry in the region. Check into your hotel.

We transfer to the pier and board a speedboat for Phnom Penh. After clearing immigration, we continue cruising along the Mekong River to the Cambodian capital. The journey takes around 5.5 hours—light snacks, water, and comfortable clothing are recommended. On arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Later in the afternoon, take a short walking tour through a local market and sample some Khmer snacks.

Explore Phnom Penh by cyclo, beginning at Wat Phnom, the city's birthplace. We visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum with its rich Khmer art collection. In the afternoon, we tour the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, powerful reminders of Cambodia's recent history. The day concludes with a sunset cocktail overlooking the Mekong River.

We travel overland to Siem Reap (approx. 6 hours, excluding stops). Along the way, we visit Skun's spider market, a stone mason village near Phnom Santuk, and the ancient Naga Bridge at Kampong Kdei. Arrive in Siem Reap by afternoon.

We begin at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, home to the towering stone faces of Bayon temple, built in the 12th century. We explore the Terrace of Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the temples of Baphuon and Phimeanakas. Next is Ta Prohm, famous for the tree roots intertwined with temple ruins. Finally, we visit the magnificent Angkor Wat, the pinnacle of Khmer architecture. This evening, enjoy a farewell Khmer dinner at a local restaurant.

Spend your final morning in Siem Reap at leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.