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Thailand and Vietnam Tours & Trips

Find the right adventure for you through Thailand and Vietnam. We've got 144 tours going to Thailand and Vietnam, starting from just 8 days in length, and the longest tour is 50 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the highest number of tour departures.

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144 thailand and vietnam tour packages with 1,081 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Amazing Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam 18 days

It is an amazing tour, well organized, with knowledgeable, friendly, fun and helpful guides in every aspects. Accommodations were great, we upgraded to 5 stars hotels and cost was just a little more. Toni, the operating manager, was from the moment we booked our tour always available to answer any questions immediately via WhatsApp. He kept us well informed and added, with the tour guides to our enjoyment of this tour with their knowledge, friendliness and going the extra mile to ensure we had a fantastic time.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Essential Vietnam & Cambodia

Was a smooth and enjoyable process from start to finish. The tour organizers G Adventures are worth of their platinum rating.

Endless Beauty of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand - 19 Days

Saw many beautiful things. Tour guides were knowledgeable. Planning was precise. Meals were excellent.

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Glimpse Of Indochina In 16 Days (Vietnam,Cambodia,Thailand,Laos)

In Total the trip was good in that we were able to see a part of the world that we had never and might never again) see. However there were various things that were surprises to us. The fact that it was our responsibility to check in for flights booked by Tour Radar was a surprise and added a level of stress in the midst of the trip that could have been dealt with by advance communication or by Tourradar offering another element to the package which includes a concierge type service which gets boarding passes (ie could use the in country tour guides). Not all hotels had staff that could communicate effectively (if at all) in English which would have made the first days in a city easier . Finding good restaurants, ATMs, drug stores etc. Some of your guides were helpful in providing a lot of that information when they dropped us off at the hotel. Chang our Bangkok guide did not do that and with th e challenges of hotel staff to communicate , our first day or two in Bangkok was the low point of our tour. Also the next day city tour was poorly done and the length of the tour could have been extended a little so the city tour was more comprehensive. Also I am told Thailand is a beautiful country but we saw nothing of the beauty that might have made Thailand famous. We enjoyed the Hare Residence in Siem Reap and would suggest keeping it in the program.. Also Laos was enjoyable , as was the hotel but the only suggestion would be to add or provide the opportunity for a visit to see one of the elephant reserves near to Luang Prabang. A city tour of Na Noi (and Saigon) would have been good to include. We came early so were able to book our own tours in Ha Noi but feel we really did not see Saigon at all. Overall the trip was good. I would suggest (as previously mentioned) a concierge type service for older travellers and maybe expanding the tour groups to 8-10 would make that more cost effective

Thailand, Laos & Vietnam Adventure

The tour through Thailand, Laos and Vietnam was incredible. It allowed for an opportunity to see the cultural highlights of each region while having an immersive experiences with locals as well as their food culture., The tour was balanced between thoughtfully planned activities and an opportunity for time to self explore., I would recommend this tour to anyone.,

Spirits Of Vietnam - Cambodia - Thailand In 16 Days

What an adventure. Absolutely amazing. Everything was meticulously organised from start to finish by our agent Long Pham. Our private airport transfers all worked perfectly. Our hotels were great. Each was thoughtfully and strategically chosen, to be in the best locations for each of our destinations. The activities were well organised and all of them were exciting, fascinating and interesting. If adventure is your thing, rather than just sitting on the beach, then this holiday is for you. Long Pham was constantly on hand via WhatsApp checking everything was going to plan and available to answer all our questions and make suggestions. My advice is get a eSIM which works in all the locations we visited in South East Asia. We used Holafly. This means you’ll have internet access everywhere which is makes a big difference. One thing to note is my wife is a celiac and cannot eat wheat. Knowledge of such a condition isn’t great in South East Asia so if you have a similar condition, take translated explanations in the native tongues to show waiters and waitresses. It was a great adventure and we loved every minute of it.

From start to finish the leaders were fantastic, very helpful. Thailand was amazing and ran smoothly. We got our new leader, Jake, in vietnam. He’s been amazing. Always knowledgable about where we are and where we are going and very easy to talk to. Jake has felt like a friend and really made the tour what it was!

Southeast Asia Discovery 19 Days

We were really impressed with the accommodations and experiences that Bravo provided. We had terrific guides that were knowledgeable and seemed to be as interested in us as we were with them and the places we visited.

Splendid of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand 18 Days

Parts of the tour were a 5 and parts were a 3. I thought that I was signing up for an 18 day tour in a group of 15, but that was not the case at all. This left me feeling like the entire program was misrepresented. In reality, I was shuffled from group to group on each excursion and many times toured alone. As a solo traveler, this experience was very isolating. Transportation from place to place was a mixed bag. Sometimes it was quick and reliable, and sometimes I waited for extended time periods. For the most part the cars were neat and tidy. The drivers were competent. Connecting flights were pretty good. I personally would prefer either very early or very late flights. I felt as though a fair amount of time was wasted sitting at the airport. Accommodations were good for middle of the road choices. Breakfasts were very good. The best part of the program was definitely the guides! Every single one of them were personable and knowledgeable. For me, I would have enjoyed having at least a couple of scheduled outings in Phuket. Overall, the package itself was good. However, for a solo traveler it was quite isolating and lonely to spend days at a time and most meals alone. Additionally, I ended up spending at least another $500 purchasing excursions to fill my empty time. While I would recommend this company to someone who was traveling with a partner, I would never recommend it to a solo traveler.

Indochina Delight with Thai Beach Escape 16-Day

Used their service during our 4-day trip to Hanoi & Halong Bay. Was not really sure what to expect as i just found them on the internet. But once we arrived at the Hanoi airport until we left, everything went really smooth & according to schedule. The transport provided & hotel accommodations were very comfortable and to our satisfaction. The great thing was, we did not have to pay for the entire cost upfront. Just required us to pay a booking deposit. Thanks to Ms. Phuong who patiently communicated via email for organizing and re-organizing the tour to our convenience. Would highly recommend travel agent

Fantastic of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand in 16 Days - Halong Bay/ Hoi An/ Siem Reap/ Phuket

Good morning Tourradar team, Both Ross and I realy enjoyed our tour of Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. We visited some great temples and other sites which were well run and our tour gides were really knowledgeable and knew where to take us and the best times to go. I would also like to thank the ladies on the phones who responded straight away to my calls for assistance and they rearrnged transport after I was in hospital in Hanoi, they were great and very caring thank you so much, they are a great team of laides. Thank you for a great and well run holiday, Glenn & Ross

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

Discover Indochina: 10-Day Private Expedition (Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand)

We opted for the "Off The Beaten Track" tour to delve into a unique experience of Vietnam, and we're pleased to report that the journey was truly outstanding. Long Pham from Vietnam Tour Fun provided exceptional support, checking in with us daily to ensure everything was going smoothly. We felt thoroughly supported and well looked after throughout the trip. Here are the highlights we truly cherished: The "Off The Beaten Path" trekking in Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Sapa, and the areas around Hoi An was simply unforgettable. We relished the tranquility of village life, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The guides in these regions each brought a distinct perspective, their backgrounds and deep knowledge of the areas making our experience truly enriching. Accommodations varied from good to exceptional, with some offering incredible views. Similarly, the food ranged from good to outstanding, with some meals truly memorable. As for aspects we would tweak: Halong Bay, despite its iconic status, felt a bit too much "on the beaten path" for our liking. The long journey from Hanoi, the logistics of embarking and disembarking the cruise ship, the tightly scheduled activities on board, and the limited cruising time left us feeling it wasn't quite worth it. We would have preferred to spend more time either in Pu Luong or Sapa. The journey to Bac Ha Sunday Market also proved to be a long day of driving. We set off early from Sapa and didn't return to our Hanoi hotel until after 9 pm. Given the chance, we would skip the market and opt for an extra day of trekking in Sapa instead. Additionally, we'd have skipped the southern destinations and instead extended our stay in Hoi An, possibly adding Hue and Da Nang to the itinerary. Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong River cruise, while bustling and lively, didn't quite align with our desire for an "Off The Beaten Track" experience. In conclusion, our journey was excellent, and with a few adjustments to the itinerary, we wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.

Thailand + Vietnam Intro

Was an absolutely amazing experience and definitely recommend! I did the Thailand and Vietnam tour (29 days) and wish I could’ve done more! The days are packed with great activities e.g cooking classes, kayaking, releasing lanterns in Hoi An and the day with the elephants (one of my fave bits!) but you also get a nice amount of down time, to do as you please (go to the pool/gym/sunbath/explore). We had Sam S as our leader for Vietnam and Em for Thailand and they were so SO amazing, went above and beyond in so many ways and helped us so much with our onward travel too. Even after the tour, when we were in a different country they helped us so much! Sam also organised 2 big cakes to be brought out at one of our group dinners for special occasions 1. Was a couples first wedding anniversary and 2. Was a girl who had been offered a job while on the tour. It was so thoughtful and that is just one example! So shout out to Sam and Em for everything and just being great people, not just leaders! We all made friends with them super quickly and they are both naturals at the job, they deffo deserve a pay rise ???? You also make friends with your group so quickly and I’ve met so many lovely people doing the tour and it’s an amazing way to see a country! It was lush not having to worry or book anything and it all be taken care of and can’t recommend it enough ????

South East Asia Uncovered

What people love about thailand and vietnam tours.

We did our tour with Bravo Indochina Tour. The tour was excellent arranged which met with our expectations. Our tour guide and driver were great knowledge and helpful. We felt so comfort with the services provided and arranged! We would highly recommend this tour!

The itinerary was interesting, hotels adequate and in most cases clean. Train ride was tiresome but we put it as life experience. Our CEO, Sita, was very enthusiastic and helpful. We had a great group of mostly older travelers so our needs were similar. We really enjoyed Halong Bay stay. The only change we would suggest was not getting up in the middle of the night to be at Angkor Wat so early. We waited for almost two hours in darkness waiting for sunrise and it wasn't worth it. We were so tired afterwards that we could not really enjoy visiting Angkor Wat temples. The local guides in Vietnam were very hard to understand (maybe find better ones?), so we've missed on some info. Cambodian guides were much better.

The communication and respect provided by Legend Tours was exceptional. I ask a lot of questions. I received timely responses every time. I made changes 3 times to my itinerary and each time was seamless, and without judgement. Eventually, I had to switch companies due to adding another country Legend doesn’t cover. Again, I was treated with the utmost respect. I plan to to use Legend Tour in the future because of the stellar customer service!

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Travel Happy

2 Weeks In Thailand And Vietnam Itinerary

Our Two Weeks in Thailand and Vietnam itinerary lets you see the best of two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rewarding destinations, all in just 14 days.

Days One to Three: Bangkok

Days four to seven: thai beaches, days eight and nine: ho chi minh city.

• Days 10 and 11: Hoi An

Days 12 to 14: Hanoi and Halong Bay

From the historical temples of Bangkok and beautiful beaches of Thai islands to bustling and busy Vietnam, we’ve included a range of different destinations to help you get the most from your two weeks in Southeast Asia.

Our itinerary begins in Bangkok, then includes several days on the Thai beach area of your choice before flying to Ho Chi Minh City and travelling north through Vietnam.

Check Hotel Availability And Pricing

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Each destination includes a link to our Quick Guides, which provide accommodation, dining and activity recommendations.

Bangkok Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Bangkok: See our guide to the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Bangkok .
• Things To Do In Bangkok: Check this huge list of Bangkok activities that you can book online.
• Flights To Bangkok: Find the cheapest flights to Bangkok and flight times from scores of airlines with Skyscanner .
• Bangkok Packing List: Don’t forget to take any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Thailand .
• Travel Insurance: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Claim online anywhere in the world.

• The Grand Palace. This large complex of temples and royal residences houses Wat Phra Kaew, which is also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Open from 8:30am until 3:30pm with a 500 baht entry fee for non-citizens, it’s best to visit the Grand Palace as early as possible to avoid the large crowds that can show up later in the day.
• Wat Pho. Home to a 160 foot reclining Buddha statue, Wat Pho is best visited directly after the Grand Palace. Wat Pho is home to one of Thailand’s most famous traditional massage schools, making it a great place to stop for a break after morning sightseeing.
• Wat Arun. Located across the Chao Phraya River, Wat Arun (or the Temple of Dawn) is a 17th century structure located right beside the water. The temple is easy to access via the cross-river ferry, which stops at Tha Tien Pier.
• After a morning of palaces and temples, you can stop for lunch at Thip Samai Pad Thai , Bangkok’s most famous Pad Thai shop, or enjoy a high-end international lunch with a view of Wat Arun from Sala Rattanakosin Eatery And Bar .
• For a great Thai lunch with equally good views of Wat Arun, stop by The Deck , which is a short walk from Sala Rattanakosin.

• Shopping Malls. Bangkok has a great selection of shopping malls, most of which are located around Siam and Chit Lom BTS stations. Siam Paragon and Central World offer the largest selection of mid-range and high-end shops, while the MBK Centre is popular for cheap smartphones, tablets, cameras and other consumer electronics.
• There are also several high-end malls in the area. Central Embassy is a great place to shop for luxury fashion and home items, while Gaysorn is Bangkok’s premier high-end fashion mall.
• Jim Thompson House. Designed by silk industry entrepreneur Jim Thompson in the 1950s, this traditional Thai house is filled with antiques and rare items. The house is open to visitors, with guided tours of its living quarters and gardens available.
• Erawan Shrine. This small shrine to Brahma (or Phra Phrom, as the deity is known in Thai Buddhism) is located just across the street from Central World and is a popular place for locals to pray for good luck.
• Night Bike Tour. After a morning of shopping, one of the best ways to see another side of Bangkok is on a night bike tour. Grasshopper Adventures offers a night bike tour that travels through Old Bangkok and past temples, flower markets and quiet alleyways.

Your third day in Bangkok is a great chance to see a quieter side of the city that most tourists never experience. If you’re itching to get to the beach, you can also leave Bangkok a day early to enjoy some extra time on an island or at a coastal beach resort.

• Khlong Tours of Thonburi. Thonburi is the part of Bangkok located west of the Chao Phraya River — a quieter, more relaxed part of town than Bangkok’s city centre. The Small Teak Boat Canal Adventure offers a trip through the canals of Thonburi that offers a look at everyday life in the quieter side of Bangkok.
• Chinatown. Bangkok’s Chinatown is bustling and busy, with a huge range of tiny shops selling everything from gold, silver and other precious metals to souvenirs and toys. It’s also a great place to enjoy authentic Thai and Chinese food. There are several street food markets around Chinatown, as well as restaurants like Hua Seng Hong and stands like Fikeaw Yao Wa-Rat serving cheap and tasty Chinese food.

Thailand has a huge variety of different beaches, ranging from coastal towns close to Bangkok to remote, quiet and undeveloped islands. We’ve listed all of Thailand’s best beach areas below, letting you choose the best destination for your needs and tastes. Each destination has a Quick Guide covering the best hotels, things to do, dining options and transportation tips.

• Hua Hin is a relaxing, convenient beach resort located less than three hours from Bangkok by car, bus or minivan. While the beaches here aren’t spectacular, the city has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and plenty of fun attractions that make it a good choice for families.
• Our Quick Guide to Hua Hin covers everything you’ll need to plan your trip to Hua Hin, with specific hotel, attraction and dining recommendations.

Thailand Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Thailand: See our guides for the best areas and the best hotels to stay in Bangkok , Phuket , Koh Phi Phi , and more .
• Things To Do In Thailand: Check the huge lists of activities in Bangkok , Phuket , Koh Phi Phi , and more – that can all be booked online.
• Thailand Packing List: Don’t forget any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Thailand .
• Flights To Thailand: Find the cheapest seats to Bangkok from dozens of airlines. Also check domestic flights to Phuket and Koh Samui .
• Thailand Airport Transfers: Book an airport transfer for hassle-free arrival at your hotel in Bangkok and Phuket .

• The easiest beach resort to access from Bangkok, Pattaya is less than two hours from Bangkok by taxi. Compared to other seaside towns in Thailand, the beaches around Pattaya aren’t very impressive and the somewhat sleazy nightlife means this isn’t a great destination for families.
• Still, if you’re travelling on your own and want a fun, cheap and convenient place to stay by the beach for a few days, Pattaya can be worth a visit. Our Quick Guide to Pattaya includes all of the best hotel, attraction and dining recommendations for Pattaya and its surroundings.

• Koh Samet is the closest real island to Bangkok, accessible in about three hours by private taxi and speedboat. The beaches here are a huge step up from Pattaya and Hua Hin, with far fewer people and less development giving the island a laid back, relaxing vibe.
• Because Koh Samet is close to Bangkok, it can get crowded on the weekend. If you’re visiting on a Saturday or Sunday, it’s best to book your accommodation as early as possible to avoid missing out on hotels to weekend visitors from Bangkok.
• Like Hua Hin and Pattaya, we have a Quick Guide to Koh Samet that covers all of the island’s essentials, from the best resorts and hotels to restaurants and more.

• Koh Chang is another island that’s easy to reach from Bangkok by bus, although it’s quite a lot further away than Koh Samet at approximately five hours from Bangkok. If you’re looking for an island that offers a mix of convenience and unspoiled beaches, Koh Chang is a good option.
• Big, beautiful and relatively undeveloped compared to islands like Phuket and Koh Samui, Koh Chang is a great place to spend three to four days. Just make sure you’re aware of the weather before you book your trip, as Koh Chang gets particularly wet during the rainy season.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Chang includes everything you need to know about the island, from the best hotels and restaurants to transportation options from Bangkok.

• Thailand’s largest and most popular island, Phuket has everything from heavily developed resort areas to quiet, peaceful and amazingly beautiful beaches. It also has its own airport, letting you fly in directly from Bangkok and avoid a long bus or taxi trip.
• Phuket has a huge variety of different beaches and areas, ranging from nightlife hubs to quiet and largely undeveloped beachside towns. It’s also where you’ll find the best selection of luxury and mid-range resorts in Thailand.
• Like the other islands, we have a Quick Guide to Phuket that covers the island’s best beaches, things to do, places to stay and dining options.

• Located east of Phuket, Krabi Province is home to some of Thailand’s best beaches and most impressive coastal scenery. Ao Nang is the main tourist destination in this part of the country, while Railay is famous for its limestone cliffs and laid back atmosphere.
• Krabi Province has its own airport, with direct flights from Bangkok departing often. If you’re looking for stunning beaches and don’t want to deal with a long ferry trip or bus ride, Krabi is tough to beat as a destination.
• We have several travel guides for Krabi Province. Our Quick Guide to Krabi Town covers the area’s main town and the area surrounding Krabi Airport, while our Ao Nang and Railay Beach guides cover Krabi’s two main tourist destinations.

• Another popular destination, Koh Samui is home to some of the best beaches in the Gulf of Thailand and a great selection of resorts to suit every budget. It also has an airport, meaning you can fly in directly from Bangkok and avoid having to deal with buses and ferries.
• Like Phuket, Koh Samui offers a range of experiences. There are heavily developed beaches with resorts, bars and nightclubs to choose from, as well as a variety of quiet beaches that are perfect for families and couples seeking peace and tranquility.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Samui covers all of the island’s best areas, things to do, hotels and dining recommendations, as well as transportation options from Bangkok.

Koh Phangan

• Famous as Thailand’s party island, Koh Phangan offers a mix of world famous parties and laid back beaches. Unlike Koh Samui, there’s no airport here (although one is currently being built), meaning you’ll need to take the ferry from Koh Samui or Surat Thani to reach the island.
• Compared to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan has a more laid back feel. Aside from the area around Haad Rin, which is where you’ll find most of the island’s parties, it’s a chilled out destination with plenty of areas of interest for families and couples.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Phangan lists all of Koh Phangan’s best beaches, hotels and dining options, as well as how to get to the island from Surat Thani and Koh Samui.

• Thailand’s diving capital, Koh Tao is a tiny island located north of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan that’s gained fame as one of the world’s cheapest places to learn to dive. It’s also home to a few great beaches, making it worth a visit for non-divers seeking a fun place to spend several days.
• Koh Tao is a lot smaller than Samui and Phangan, with most of the island’s areas of interest a short walk from each other. It’s also become something of a backpacker hotspot over the last few years, with a great selection of beachside bars offering cheap drinks and fun parties.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Tao covers all of the island’s highlights, from beaches and areas of interest to hotels, restaurants and transportation to and from the island.

• Just over an hour from Krabi Airport, Koh Lanta is a quiet island that offers a more relaxed and peaceful experience than most destinations in Southern Thailand. The island is visited by a tiny fraction as many people as Phuket, making it great for anyone seeking peace and tranquility.
• Koh Lanta offers direct access to some of Thailand’s best diving and snorkelling sites, making it a great option for diving enthusiasts. It’s also home to some of Thailand’s best beaches, making it worth adding to your “to visit” list if you just to relax, swim and work on your suntan.
• We have a Quick Guide to Koh Lanta that lists all of the island’s best beaches, things to do, hotels and places to eat, as well as information on how to get to Koh Lanta from nearby areas like Phuket and Krabi.

• Located in the middle of Phang Nga Bay, Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai offer some of the best sea views in Thailand. They’re also easy to access from Phuket and completely unspoiled by the mass development that’s affected some of Thailand’s other beach areas.
• If you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing and peaceful place to spend some time with your partner or family, Koh Yao is worth considering. Koh Yao Noi, the smaller of the two islands, is where you’ll find most of the area’s resorts and things to do.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Yao covers the best accommodation options, things to do and dining recommendations on both islands.

• Another small and largely undeveloped island, Koh Jum is a peaceful destination that’s located between Ao Nang and Koh Lanta. If you want to experience Thailand as it was 25 or 30 years ago before mass tourism took hold, you’ll love Koh Jum’s quiet beaches and bungalow resorts.
• Our Quick Guide to Koh Jum covers everything you need to know about the island, from its best luxury resorts and budget bungalows to restaurants, things to do and how to get to Koh Jum from Krabi Airport.

• Ben Thanh Market. Built in 1912 during Vietnam’s period as part of French Indochina, this central market is a good place to shop for clothes and souvenirs. It’s worth haggling here, as most of the vendors will drop their prices by 20-40% if you ask.
• Reunification Palace. Previously the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, this 1960s building was converted into a museum showcasing a variety of important spaces used by the former Vietnamese leadership.
• War Remnants Museum. This museum of the Vietnam War features captured planes, tanks, helicopters, artillery and other equipment. There are also several detailed photo exhibits inside the museum documenting the Vietnamese and international experiences during the war.
• Saigon Skydeck. Located inside the futuristic Bitexco Financial Tower, this viewing area offers great views of central Ho Chi Minh City and the Saigon River.
• Cu Chi Tunnels. This incredible network of tunnels was used as a secret base by the Viet Cong during the war, particularly for the 1968 Tet Offensive. Today, the tunnels are open to the public and make a great half-day trip from Saigon.

Vietnam Holiday Essentials

• Where To Stay In Vietnam: See our guides for the best areas and the best hotels to stay in capital city Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City .
• Things To Do In Vietnam: Book online from huge lists of activities in Ho Chi Minh City , Hanoi , Ha Long Bay , Nha Trang , and more .
• Flights To Vietnam: Find the cheapest tickets and check times to Ho Chi Minh City or the capital Hanoi from dozens of airlines.
• Vietnam Airport Transfers: Book a convenient airport transfer for hassle-free arrival at your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi .
• Vietnam Itineraries: Make the most of your trip with our 1-week and 2-week Vietnam itineraries, and our extensive guides for how to spend 2 weeks in Thailand and Vietnam and 2 weeks in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam .
• Vietnam Packing List: Don’t forget any of the essentials with our comprehensive Packing List For Vietnam .

Days 10 to 11: Hoi An

• Hoi An Old Town. Hoi An’s historic old town contains more than 800 historic buildings, ranging from shophouses to beautiful pagodas. The Japanese Covered Bridge and Precious Heritage Museum are two of the Old Town’s must-see sights.
• Beaches. There are two beaches in Hoi An, both of which are fairly uncrowded and easy to access. An Bang Beach is the most popular of the two, while Cua Dai Beach is usually less crowded.
• Tailored Clothing. Hoi An is famous for its tailors, many of whom can put together high quality clothes in just a few days. While two days isn’t quite enough to get a suit, you’ll be able to order shirts, tops and other items from some of the city’s tailor shops. Some of Hoi An’s more popular tailors include Bebe ClothShop , Kimmy Custom Tailor and Yalo Couture , which all score well in reviews from travellers and expats.

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Open since the mid-1970s, the Ho Chi MInh Mausoleum is the resting place of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader. The building contains Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body, making it an interesting and somewhat morbid place to visit.
• One Pillar Pagoda. Located close to the mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda is a historic temple that’s an icon of Vietnamese history. The temple was built in 1049 at the request of Emperor Lý Thái Tông and rebuilt after suffering damage in the First Indochina War.
• Hoan Kiem Lake. Located close to the Old Quarter, this beautiful lake contains a small island with Ngoc Son Temple, also known as the Temple of the Jade Mountain . One of Hanoi’s most popular scenic areas and sightseeing spots.
• Hanoi Old Quarter. Famous for its small, crowded alleyways and colonial shophouses, the Old Quarter of Hanoi is an exciting place to shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal in any of the area’s small restaurants and cafés.
• Temple of Literature. One of Hanoi’s most impressive historical areas, the Temple of Literature & National University was built in 1070 in honor of Confucius, scholars and sages of Vietnam. The temple is one of Hanoi’s top historical tourist attractions.

• Famous for its stunning limestone karsts, Halong Bay is one of Vietnam’s best known natural attractions. The bay is located approximately three hours from Hanoi and is best visited on a day trip or overnight tour.
• The best option for visiting Halong Bay depends on your flight schedule. If you leave early in the morning or at midday, a day trip is the best option. If your flight is late at night or you can extend your trip to 15 days, you’ll get the best experience by seeing Halong Bay on an overnight cruise.
• Our Quick Guide to Halong Bay includes more information about the best cruises and tours to Halong Bay, including specific tour operators and things to see and do around the area.

Bangkok and Thailand Travel Itineraries

• 1 Day In Bangkok: Must See Itinerary Only have 1 day in Bangkok? You can see many of Bangkok’s iconic attractions in the space of a day, plus sample some great food and enjoy the nightlife too.
• 2 Days in Bangkok Itinerary With just 2 days in Bangkok you still have time to enjoy its impressive cultural sites as well as its fine selection of shopping and dining. Check out this 2 day Bangkok itinerary.
• 3 Days in Bangkok Itinerary From temples and museums to shopping malls and outdoor markets, Bangkok has more than enough to keep you occupied for 3 days in Bangkok.
• 1 Week In Bangkok Travel Itinerary While most visitors spend a few days in the capital before travelling elsewhere in Thailand, it’s far from challenging to spend a week in Bangkok taking in all that the city has to offer.
• 1 Week Thailand Beaches Itinerary Thailand has hundreds of great beaches, ranging from large tourist resorts to remote beaches largely undiscovered by tourists. Thailand’s long coastline and wide range of destinations make it arguably Asia’s best destination for lovers of sand, sea and sun.
• 1 Week Bangkok And Mountains Itinerary Planning a trip to Thailand but prefer not to spend too much time on the beach? While Thailand is best known for its beautiful beaches, its capital city and mountain destinations are also great places to spend your holiday.
• 1 Week In Chiang Mai Itinerary Thailand’s mountainous north offers a very different experience from its famous southern beach destinations. A cooler climate, beautiful mountainous scenery and a more relaxed, laid back feel make northern Thailand a unique destination that’s worth experiencing.
• 2 Weeks In Thailand And Vietnam Itinerary Our Two Weeks in Thailand and Vietnam itinerary lets you see the best of two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and rewarding destinations, all in just 14 days.
• 2 Weeks In Thailand And Cambodia Itinerary Our Two Weeks in Thailand and Cambodia itinerary includes everything from modern cities and relaxing beach resorts to some of the world’s most incredible historical temple complexes and ancient cities
• 3 Weeks In Thailand, Cambodia And Vietnam Our Three Weeks in Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary lets you experience three of Southeast Asia’s most exciting, rewarding and unique countries from multiple perspectives.

Start Planning Your Vietnam Trip Now!

:: Find available Vietnam hotels on Booking.com and Agoda.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too.

:: Browse a huge list of Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City - there are loads of activities and tours you can quickly book online or simply use as inspiration for your trip.

:: Find the cheapest flights to Vietnam with Skyscanner - one search will show you the prices and times from scores of airlines for your trip. A real timesaver.

:: Book an airport transfer to take you hassle-free direct from the airport to your hotel with the driver meeting you in Arrivals.

:: World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.

:: Book bus, train and ferry tickets in Vietnam with 12Go - easy to use website that lets you check timetables and buy tickets online.

:: Need inspiration? Check our Vietnam Itineraries for ideas of where to go and what to do.

:: Explore our Vietnam Travel Guide for more Vietnam must-see destinations.

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Travel, Hiking, Food

Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Weeks in Vietnam and Thailand

If you are planning to visit Southeast Asia, this 3 week Thailand and Vietnam itinerary will show you the perfect way to spend 3 weeks in Southeast Asia.

This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Southeast Asia is a popular travel destination for tourists from all over the world. It’s a region known for its rich history and culture, stunning natural beauty, friendly people and delicious cuisine. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking for a unique, fun and unforgettable experience.

There are many countries in Southeast Asia, including Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam, etc. Traveling through Southeast Asia to visit every country would take months or even a year.

From the pristine beaches of Thailand and the Philippines to the lush jungles of Indonesia and Malaysia, the region offers a wide range of natural wonders to explore. For the history buff, the ancient temples of Angkor in Cambodia and the colonial architecture of Hanoi in Vietnam offer plenty of cultural treasures to explore in Southeast Asia.

If you only have 3 weeks in Southeast Asia, you won’t be able to see every country. Therefore I suggest just 2 countries to explore: Vietnam and Thailand. Vietnam and Thailand are popular destinations to visit in Southeast Asia and you will have a great time there.

This 3 week Southeast Asia itinerary will cover the highlights of Thailand and Vietnam so you get a variety of different experiences in both countries.

Why Should You Visit Thailand and Vietnam?

Thailand and Vietnam are two of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, and for good reason.

Thailand, known as the “Land of Smiles,” is a country that offers a perfect balance of culture, nature, and relaxation. From the bustling city of Bangkok to the ancient temples in Chiang Mai, you can indulge in delicious street food, and experience the world-famous hospitality of the Thai people.

Vietnam is a country rich in history and culture. From the French colonial architecture of Hanoi to the ancient city of Hue, Vietnam is a country that offers a fascinating glimpse into its past.

Visitors can also explore the country’s stunning natural beauty, from the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay to the rice paddies of the north. Vietnam is also known for its delicious cuisine, with dishes like pho and banh mi that are popular around the world.

Thailand and Vietnam are two destinations that offer a perfect blend of culture, history, nature, and relaxation. From bustling cities to the peaceful countryside, there’s something for everyone in these two amazing countries. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an adventure, or just some time to relax on the beach, Thailand and Vietnam are destinations that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

When is the best time to visit Thailand and Vietnam?

Thailand and Vietnam have a diverse geography and many micro climates within each country. But in general, Southeast Asia has a dry season and a wet season.

Dry season is generally from November to April and rainy season from May to October. It is best to not visit during rainy season as there can be flooding especially in Central Vietnam during that time.

Best months to visit Thailand

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and February, during the cool and dry season. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, consider going during the shoulder seasons of September to October, although you may experience some rain.

If you prefer not to travel in the heat, you may choose other months to travel to Thailand rather than March to May. I went in April and it was 40C+ every day.

Best months to visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is during the cooler and drier months of December to February. If you are visiting Central and South Vietnam, the winter months can be quite comfortable.

Sapa in the North is best visited during July to September when you will see the green rice terraces while you may experience some rain, it won’t be like the coastal flooding in Da Nang.

In addition if you do plan to visit the mountainous regions of Vietnam, the winter months (November to March) can be quite foggy, so summer and fall months may be better.

How Do You Get Around Thailand and Vietnam?

It is very easy to get around Thailand and Vietnam, which is also why these two countries are often first choices for backpackers and foreign tourists. You can easily get around and travel within Thailand and Vietnam by flying, trains, buses, taxis, luxury vans, tours, tuk-tuks and renting motorbikes.

In Southeast Asia, you can easily book trains and buses using 12go , which even includes reviews of the various buses and trains so it’s easier to help you decide which one to take.

If you are thinking about ride sharing services, the best app is Grab , since Uber and Lyft do not operate in Southeast Asia. You can link your foreign credit card to Grab (or you can pay cash after you take the ride).

Specifically within Thailand, metered taxis are a good option in Bangkok and other major cities, while tuk-tuks are a fun and affordable way to get around in smaller towns and shorter distances.

The easiest way to travel within cities and towns in Vietnam is to rent a motorbike. If you cannot ride one, you can also ask your hotel to help you arrange private taxi and luxury van if you are planning to travel from city to city.

What to Pack for Vietnam and Thailand?

Since you will be spending 3 weeks in Southeast Asia, it is important you bring the right things with you to make the trip more enjoyable and easier.

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Summer clothes with layers : Southeast Asia is normally pretty warm so bring summer clothes. However if you are going between December and February and planning to visit mountainous regions, then be sure to bring layers with you as it can get chilly in the mountains.

Comfortable shoes : you will be doing a lot of walking in Vietnam and Thailand, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes (sneakers, sandals). If you are planning to hike, then be sure to bring hiking shoes .

Cash : Vietnam and Thailand are very cash heavy countries. Even though you can pay for hotels and most meals with a credit card, most attractions and vendors still only take cash. If you do not have enough cash, be sure to bring a no fee ATM card as withdrawing from local ATM machines give you the best exchange rate.

Body Wipes : if you are planning to take a sleeper bus or train, you won’t be able to shower until you go to a hotel.

Ear plugs & eye mask : These are super useful if you are trying to sleep on sleeper buses and trains since it could be loud and bright!

Medications : If you have prescription medications you should be sure to bring them. You can buy generic brands in Thailand and Vietnam if necessary.

Plug Adapter : If you are traveling to Southeast Asia from the US or UK, you will need to get a plug converter/ adaptor so you can charge your electronics.

For the most part, you can buy things you need such as toiletries, sunscreen, hats, lotion, and other necessities in Southeast Asia when you travel there. They are generally cheaper than what you get in the US or UK and it helps you to save space in your luggage.

How Safe is Thailand and Vietnam?

Thailand and Vietnam are very safe countries for travelers, even for solo female travelers. This is also why there are many backpackers that love to travel to Vietnam and Thailand.

Both Thailand and Vietnam have a low crime rate and the locals are friendly and helpful. However as with any tourist destinations, there is always petty crime so be sure to watch your belongings.

If you are planning to rent motorbikes in Thailand and Vietnam, be sure to drive defensively and wear a helmet. You should also consider getting  travel insurance when traveling by motorbikes.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Another potential risk while traveling in Vietnam and Thailand is food safety. Be sure to eat at reputable restaurants to minimize the risk of food poisoning. Some people also advise avoid getting ice but I never had any issues, in fact I have never gotten food borne illness in Thailand and Vietnam.

You should also be aware of scams targeting tourists, such as taxi and tuk tuk scams that overcharge tourists using “meters”. Always be aware of any “too-good-to-be-true” deals offered by tour operators and vendors.

3 Week Vietnam and Thailand Itinerary

Day 1 – 4: Bangkok, Thailand Day 5 – 8: Chiang Mai (or the islands) Day 9 – 13: Central Vietnam Day 14 – 21: Northern Vietnam

Thailand and Vietnam are both large countries, so this 3 week itinerary can only show you parts of both countries that I think are unique and beautiful.

If you want particular experiences within Thailand or Vietnam, you can always customize this itinerary based on your interest.

Day 1 – 4: Bangkok, Thailand

Start your trip in Bangkok, Thailand’s vibrant capital city. You can spend a few days exploring the city’s temples, markets, and street food scene.

Day 1 in Bangkok

Assuming you are landing in Thailand on Day 1, you should take this time to relax and try to adjust jet lag. But if you are feeling up for it, you can visit Wat Paknam , a popular temple among locals and tourists alike due to its unique architecture and spiritual significance.

Wat Paknam is famous because of its role in making the Dhammakaya meditation method known in Thailand. It is also easily recognizable because of the seated 69m golden statue that was finished in 2021.

You can also spend some time visiting China Town , getting a Thai massage and checking out the fancy shopping center Icon Siam on your first day in Thailand.

Day 2 in Bangkok

During your 2nd day in Bangkok , start your day by visiting the Grand Palace , one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok. The palace was once the home of the Thai kings and is a great example of traditional Thai architecture.

Within the Grand Palace complex, be sure to not miss the temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), famous for the seated jade Buddha clothed in gold.

After visiting the palace, slowly walk over to Wat Pho , known for its 46-meter-long reclining Buddha statue.

If there is time, you can also enjoy a river cruise around the city and get off at Wat Arun to enjoy the sunset.

Finish your night by visiting the famous Khao San Road , a vibrant street that is packed with bars, restaurants, shops and street vendors. You can try very interesting and exotic street food on Khao San Road.

Day 3 in Bangkok

Most people who visit Bangkok opt for a couple of day trips not far from Bangkok after exploring the city.

The floating market near Bangkok is a popular tourist attraction where vendors sell their goods from boats on the water. There are several floating markets in and around Bangkok, but the most famous one is Damnoen Saduak Floating Market , which is located about 95km (1.5 hour drive) from Bangkok.

At the floating market, visitors can see vendors selling a variety of goods including fresh produce, local handicrafts, souvenirs, and cooked food from their boats.

You can combine Damnoen Saduak Floating Market with the famous Maeklong Railway Market (where a train comes through the market) with this tour .

At night after you are back from this day trip, be sure to go watch a Muay Thai match , the ancient martial art of Thailand. Unlike wrestling or boxing, Muay Thai involves the use of fists, elbows, knees, and shins to strike opponents.

If Muay Thai is not of interest to you, you can always grab a drink at some of Bangkok’s best rooftop bars such as Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel which was featured in the movie Hangover 2 . Other nice rooftop bars include Moon Bar , Red Sky restaurant, Octave , and SEEN .

Day 4 in Bangkok

During your last day in Bangkok, you can either take a day trip to visit temples in Ayutthaya or explore the Erwan Museum and Ancient City in Samut Prakan, which is near Bangkok.

The city of Ayutthaya was the second capital of the Kingdom of Siam; it was once the largest and most prosperous city in Southeast Asia. However it was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767.

Today Ayutthaya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to many temples and ruins, including the famous Wat Mahathat , known for its iconic Buddha head in the roots of a tree.

The Erawan Museum is a unique 3 story building shaped like a giant elephant and is home to a collection of art and antiques from Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries.

The Ancient City is a beautiful outdoor museum that showcases Thailand’s history and culture. You can see the replicas of ancient temples, palaces, and villages, and explore exhibitions showcasing traditional Thai art and culture at the Ancient City. It is also one of the most popular photo spots for Instagrammers because of its beautiful architecture.

If you are on a budget, take an overnight train (12-14 hours) or overnight bus (9-10 hours) to the next destination: Chiang Mai.

You should definitely get a Bangkok Explorer Pass if you are planning to do the day trips and cooking classes. You can save a lot of money with this pass!

Where to stay in Bangkok

Bangkok is a huge city so you can find accommodations that fit your budget, whether it is hostels or 5 star hotels. I have visited Bangkok a few times and stayed at various places ranging from really cheap to moderately expensive.

Budget accommodation in Bangkok: Mad Monkey Hostel , the Yard Hostel , NaPpark Hostel , Once Again Hostel

Medium range accommodation in Bangkok: Villa Bangkok , Avani Plus Riverside , SKYVIEW Hotel , Kimpton Maa-Lai

Luxury hotels in Bangkok: Siam Kempinski Hotel , Shangri-La , Lebua , The Peninsula Bangkok

You can also book Airbnbs in Bangkok if you are traveling with a large party and prefer to stay together.

Day 5 – 8: Chiang Mai

If you are not taking the overnight train or bus from Bangkok, you can book an early flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand and it is located in the northern region of Thailand. Chiang Mai is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

The city is surrounded by mountains and lush forests, and is home to many historic temples and landmarks. Chiang Mai also has a laid-back and relaxed vibe, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Many people actually like the chill vibe in Chiang Mail more than Bangkok, but I think both cities are unique and are enjoyable in different ways.

Day 5: Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai was founded in 1296 and was the capital of Lanna Kingdom until 1558. As a former capital city, it is not surprising to find a walled old city protected by a moat.

During your first day in Chiang Mai, you can explore this fortified old city and visit the many temples there. Some of the most famous temples to visit in Chiang Mai include Wat Chedi Luang , Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chiang Man .

After spending some time exploring temples and walled city, you can take a half day cooking class . Chiang Mai is actually pretty famous for its cooking classes and you can check out local markets and cook a delicious Thai meal. Taking a cooking class was actually one of my favorite things to do in Chiang Mai.

One of the most popular things to do in Chiangmai among visitors is to visit its night markets, such as Chiang Mai Night Bazaar , Wua Lai Walking Street , or even the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market . At these night markets you can shop for souvenirs and try some delicious street food.

Day 6: Chiang Mai

After spending the entire day yesterday in the city center of Chiang Mai, today you will venture out a little to do some light hiking and visit Doi Suthep-Pui National Park .

Wat Pha Lat is a serene and tranquil Buddhist temple nestled in the lush greenery of the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. You can visit Wat Pha Lat by car or by foot via Monk’s Trail , which is a unique and rewarding experience.

After Wat Pha Lat, make your way to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , one of the most popular Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. It is located on the top of Doi Suthep mountain and can be visited by car or climbing up 309 steps.

Once at the top, you can marvel at the stunning golden pagoda, which is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha. You will also have a sweeping panoramic view of the surrounding area from the temple’s terrace.

If you don’t want to have to find your way and transportation to Doi Suthep, you can book this sunrise tour that takes you there.

In the afternoon you can relax at a cafe in Chiang Mai or get a Thai massage (I highly recommend getting a massage everyday while you are in Thailand!).

If you did not get a chance to watch a Thai boxing match in Bangkok, you can watch one in Chiang Mai in Thailand’s first ever Muay Thai stadium.

Day 7 & 8: Day Trips From Chiang Mai

There are a number of fun half day and full day trips you can do from Chiang Mai, which is also why people love visiting Chiang Mai.

If you seek adrenaline and adventure, then you will love zip lining near Chiang Mai. I screamed my way across the jungle when I went zip lining in Chiang Mai but you are probably more brave than me.

A visit to the iconic White Temple in Chiang Rai is a must for anyone in the region. The White Temple, also known as Wat Rong Khun, is a unique Buddhist temple that is designed, rebuilt and owned by a local artist. Besides the White Temple, Blue Temple and Black House are also popular points of interest in Chiang Rai.

Where to stay in Chiang Mai

Budget Accommodation in Chiang Mai: Tanita House , Stamps Backpackers , Family Home Chiang Mai

Medium Range Hotels in Chiang Mai: Cross Chiaing Mai Riverside , U Chiang Mai , El Barrio Lanna

<Alternative Day 5 – 8 in Thailand>

If temples are of no interest to you, don’t worry, you can still enjoy Thailand!

Thailand is famous for its white sand beach and islands, in fact many people fly to Thailand just for its beautiful beaches and water activities.

Instead of going up to Chiang Mai, you can fly down south to Phuket from Bangkok.

Phuket is a vibrant beach town with a lot of resorts, restaurants and bars. There are also numerous day trips to the various islands and beaches from Phuket. In fact Phuket is where most first time visitors to Thailand stay.

If you want to get away from the bustling and hustling of Phuket, you can always stay at the more quiet Krabi or Phi Phi Island and still enjoy all the water activities and white sand beach.

Day 9 – 13: Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is a popular region of Vietnam that offers a rich history, interesting culture, delicious cuisine and beautiful scenery.

Central Vietnam is home to some of the country’s most iconic attractions, such as the ancient city of Hue, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An, the beautiful Marble Mountains, and the fun filled Ba Na Hills.

You will spend the next 4 days exploring Da Nang, Hoi An and Hue.

Before traveling to Vietnam, make sure you have the necessary Vietnam tourist visa and document to enter Vietnam.

Day 9: Da Nang

Catch the first flight out from Chiang Mai (or Phuket) to Da Nang to maximize your day in Da Nang.

Da Nang is the largest city in Central Vietnam, known for its beach, Marble Mountain, religious sites, and its proximity to Ba Na Hills, Hue and Hoi An.

To maximize your day in Da Nang, I would recommend picking either the Marble Mountain area or So’n Tra Mountain to visit. If you have a lot of time you can also try to visit both of these sites.

Marble Mountain is actually 5 limestone peaks in Da Nang; these 5 peaks are known as the five elements in nature: water, fire, earth, wood and metal.

There are a number of pagodas, caves and towers on Marble Mountain and it is one of the most visited areas in Da Nang.

The most famous attractions on Marble Mountain include the Linh Ung Pagoda and Non Nuoc Pagoda, Tam Thai Pagoda, Huyen Khong Cave, Hoa Nghiem Cave and Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village . You will also get beautiful a view of the coast line from Marble Mountain.

Son Tra Mountain (Monkey Mountain) is also a famous attraction area in Da Nang, famous for Son Tra Linh Ung Pagoda (not to be confused with the one on Marble Mountain) and its Lady Buddha (the tallest Buddhist statue in Vietnam) and Ban Co Peak .

Where to stay in Da Nang

If you are looking for a luxurious experience, then I would highly recommend Intercontinental Danang on Son Tran Mountain. You can take a cable car from the hotel to the beach and have complete privacy. There is also a very Instagram worthy and delicious restaurant onsite at the hotel.

Other highly popular beach resorts in Da Nang include Sala Danang Beach Hotel , HAIAN Beach Hotel and Monarque Hotel Danang .

Day 10: Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is an amusement park about 40 minute drive from Da Nang city center. Insta-famous for its Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hills is a nice day trip from Da Nang for the entire family.

Ba Na Hills also has one of the longest cable cars in Vietnam and the whole ride in itself is an attraction and takes about 20 minutes from the bottom of the hill to the amusement park.

Aside from the famous Golden Bridge , Ba Na Hills also has a indoor amusement park, French village, religious sites such as Linh Ung Pagoda (different from the ones in Da Nang), beautiful French gardens, a wax museum, many different restaurants, and even a Starbucks.

If you want to avoid crowds and get the best photo at Golden Bridge, you should stay one night up in Ba Na Hills at the Mercure French Village hotel so you can have early access to the cable car to Golden Bridge the next morning.

Day 11: Hoi An

After taking your photos at the Golden Bridge and grabbing breakfast, it is time to check out and travel to Hoi An. From Ba Na Hills you can get a taxi or Grab to Hoi An, which is about 1 hour away by car.

Hoi An was an international trading center in Vietnam back in the 16th and 17th centuries. Because of its trading activities, there were many foreign merchants that came to Hoi An and set up their own quarters.

The Old Town of Hoi An has a number of architectural monuments such as shrines, temples, pagodas, ancient houses and they are preserved intact. It is now an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While in Hoi An, you can get a tourist ticket (passes to see up to 5 attractions) and visit some of the most famous places in Hoi An, which include:

• Japanese Covered Bridge
• Assembly Halls (Phuc Kien, Quant Trieu, Trieu Chau, Hai Nam)
• Old houses (Tan Ky, Quan Thang, Duc An, etc)
• Communal Houses

But to be honest, Hoi An is best experienced just by walking around the different streets, admiring the lanterns and architecture , people watch at a cafe, getting custom dresses and shirts made at a tailor, checking out Hoi An night market and taking an evening boat ride on the Hoai River.

If you have more time, you can also check out the beach at Hoi An or take a day trip to either Cham Island and My Son (ancient ruins), or take a coconut forest basket boat .

Where to stay in Hoi An

Most visitors stay near the ancient town of Hoi An although you can also stay at a resort near the beach.

If your plan is to spend most of your time exploring the old town of Hoi An, then I would highly recommend these hotels:

• Q Villa Hoi An : We stayed here during our trip. The room was large, bright and clean and it was within walking distance to everything.
• Serenity Villa : one of the best valued accommodations in Hoi An with a pool and within walking distance to the Hoi An night market and other tourist sites

Read Next : One Day (24 Hours) in Hoi An itinerary and travel guide

Day 12 & 13: Hoi An & Hue

Spend early morning in Hoi An to explore and take some photos while there is no crazy crowd like the previous afternoon. Early morning is actually the best time to explore Hoi An if you want photos since most tours come later in the day.

You can also grab some delicious pho at Phở Tùng , one of the best reviewed Pho restaurants in the old town. Or you can get Bahn Mi (Vietnamese sandwich) from the famous Bánh Mì Phượng , the most popular Bahn Mi places in Hoi An after it was featured in Anthony Bourdain’s – No Reservations .

After a morning in Hoi An, take a bus or private taxi to Hue , the ancient capital of the Nguyen Dynasty in Vietnam.

Hue is a large city and the main attractions include:

• Imperial Citadel : walled citadel including palaces of the imperial family
• Thien Mu Pagoda : 7 story Buddhist temple by Perfume River east of Imperial Citadel
• Ancient tombs : tombs of Emperor Tu Duc, Emperor Khai Dinh, Emperor Ga Liang, Emperor Minh Mang
• Dong Ba Market : the oldest market in Hue
• Abandoned Water Park
• Hue Night Walking Street : a street full of restaurants and bars

With about a day and half in Hue, you will be able to see all the main attractions, try some delicious local food before either taking an overnight train to Ninh Binh or taking a short flight to Hanoi.

Where to stay in Hue

Hue is a large city and personally I think the best places to stay in Hue are either close to the imperial citadel or the Night Walking Street.

Budget Accommodation in Hue : Hue Melody Hostel , located right at the lively night walking street area.

Luxury Accommodation in Hue : Melia Vinpearl Hue , we loved staying here! It’s in the tallest building in Hue, with an indoor pool, gym and other luxury amenities but at a moderate price.

Hue is quite big and the tombs are not in the city itself. The best way to get around Hue is to rent a scooter or hire a private taxi to take you around the different spots. I would not recommend using Grab outside of the city as you may not be able to get cars in the outskirts of town.

Day 14 – 21: Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam is a stunning region that is characterized by its beautiful mountain landscapes, diverse ethnic communities, and rich cultural heritage. The region is home to many of Vietnam’s most iconic destinations, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay, the rice paddies of Sapa, the incredible landscape of Ninh Binh, and the stunning waterfall of Cao Bang.

You will spend the next week of your 3 week Thailand and Vietnam trip exploring some of the best spots in Northern Vietnam before flying home from Hanoi.

Day 14 & 15: Ninh Binh & Hanoi

If you flew to Hanoi from Hue, you would need to take an early morning bus or private taxi or luxury van from Hanoi to Tam Coc in Ninh Binh. Or if you took a overnight train from Hue to Ninh Binh, you will need to ask your hotel to book you a taxi from Ninh Binh Train Station to Tam Coc to start your day.

Ninh Binh is a popular region in Northern Vietnam, about 2-3 hours by car from Hanoi. Located southeast of Hanoi, Ninh Binh is often referred to as “Halong Bay on Land” due to its striking karst landscape, which is made up of towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, and meandering rivers.

Ninh Binh is also home to many ancient temples, pagodas, and other historical sites and view points and it is no wonder it is one of the most popular day trips from Hanoi. With about 2 days in Ninh Binh, you can see some of the best attractions:

• Mua Caves : beautiful view points of the entire area
• Bai Dinh Pagoda : one of the largest Buddhist temple complexes in Southeast Asia
• Hoa Lu Ancient Capital : ancient capital from the 10th to 11th century
• Bich Dong Pagoda : ancient pagoda nestled at the foot of a towering mountain
• Tam Coc Boat Ride : a scenic 1.5 hour boat ride in the town of Tam Coc that takes you through the rice paddies and limestone cliffs and caves
• Trang An Boat Ride : a beautiful 3 hour boat ride that has 3 different routes and lets you see caves and religious sites with the option of getting off at each site

If you have more time in Ninh Binh, you can also check out Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve , caves , Thung Nham Bird Park and Cuc Phuong National Park .

The best way to get around Ninh Binh is to rent a scooter but you can also hire a private taxi to get around or even take tours . If you don’t want to stay in Ninh Binh you can also take tours from Hanoi. If you want to take tours from Hanoi, I highly recommend this tour and this tour which cover all of the best attractions listed above.

If you decide to travel around Ninh Binh by scooter or taxi, then I would recommend visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda , Hoa Lu Ancient Capital and Trang An Boat ride on the first day since they are not too far from each other.

On the second day you can go to Mua Caves , Bich Dong Pagoda and take the Tam Coc boat ride . Mua Caves do get really crowded once all the tours come, so it’s best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowd. All of these are not too far from Tam Coc so they should be done together.

Where to stay in Ninh Binh

Most people stay in the town of Tam Coc when they visit Ninh Binh because there are a lot of restaurants and bars.

We personally stayed at Tam Coc Horizon Bungalow and I only have good things to say about them. We had our own bungalow and the staff was extremely accommodating and friendly. They even provided us with a bag of snacks and fruits when we were leaving.

Hanoi in the afternoon on Day 15

Finish your Ninh Binh excursions around noon so you can take a bus or luxury van back to Hanoi to explore this wonderful capital city of Vietnam.

There is a lot to see, do, drink, and eat in Hanoi. The main attractions in Hanoi near the Old Quarter include:

• Hanoi Train Street : a street full of cafes famous for its daily train passing
• Temple of Literature : a stunning example of traditional Vietnamese architecture and a symbol of the country’s dedication to education and scholarship.
• Hoan Kiem Lake (and Ngoc Son Temple): a picturesque lake in the middle of Old Quarter surrounded by historical landmarks and popular attractions
• One Pillar Pagoda : a famous Buddhist temple in Hanoi known for its unique architecture
• Quan Thanh Temple : a historic Taoist temple that is one of the four Sacred Temples in Hanoi
• Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum : the resting place of President Ho Chi Minh that offers an insight into Vietnam’s history
• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long : a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hanoi
• St. Joseph Cathedral : a famous neo-Gothic cathedral; its architectural style resembles Notre Dame in Paris and it was constructed during the French colonial period
• Hanoi Night Market : a vibrant weekend night market in the center of Old Quarter that sells food, souvenirs and clothing items
• Ta Hien Beer Street (best visited at night): a busy street with restaurants and bars and seating outside that is lively at night

After visiting Hue, you may be less interested in some of the religious and historical sites above and that’s ok!

You can simply enjoy Hanoi by wandering through the narrow streets of Old Quarter, people watch at a Cafe and try Egg Coffee, finding street food at every corner, shopping for souvenirs or clothes, or simply grabbing a drink and dinner at Ta Hien Beer and taking in the lively vibe of the city.

Where to stay in Hanoi

Most people stay in Hanoi Old Quarter when they visit Hanoi for the first time. There are so many restaurants, cafes and shops in the Old Quarter and most tours will also only pick up from hotels in the Old Quarter.

There are plenty of accommodations for all budgets in the Old Quarter and they are within walking distance to all the attractions and restaurants.

Budget Accommodation in Hanoi : Old Quarter View Hostel , Hanoi Central Backpackers Hostel

Medium ranged Accommodation in Hanoi : La Storia Ruby Hotel , L’Heritage Diamond Hotel

Luxury Accommodation in Hanoi : Babylon Premium Hotel & Spa , Meritel Hanoi

I have stayed at a number of the hotels listed above during my most recent trip and have only good things to say about the staff and location of these hotels.

Day 16 & 17: Halong Bay & Hanoi

Halong Bay is one of the most popular natural attractions in Vietnam and it is especially convenient to visit Halong Bay from Hanoi.

Most people visit Halong Bay by doing a cruise and there are different types of Halong Bay cruises:

• One day cruise (no overnight)
• 2 Day 1 Night cruise
• 3 Day 2 night cruise

There are also visitors that spend a night or two on Cat Ba Island , the largest island in Halong Bay instead of doing a cruise.

If you are planning to take a Halong Bay Cruise which most visitors do, there are cruises for all budget types, from as little as $100 a person to over $1000 a night per cabin.

You can ask your hotel to help book a Halong Bay cruise or book one yourself either on the cruise’s websites or booking.com. Some of the most luxurious cruises include Orchid Premium Cruise , Emperor Cruises , Elite of the Seas , Stellar of the Seas .

Most people book a 2 day 1 night Halong Bay Cruise and the schedule generally looks something like this:

Day 1 of 2 day Halong Bay Cruise

• 8am pick up from Hanoi
• 12pm boarding Halong Bay Cruise
• 2 – 4pm activities such as cave exploring, beach, kayaking, swimming – depends on your particular cruise company
• 4-6pm: Happy hour on board
• 6pm: dinner
• Evening: squid fishing and relaxing

Day 2 of 2 day Halong Bay Cruise

• 6:30am cooking class or Tai Chi
• 8am Breakfast
• Morning activity, brunch and checking out
• 3pm back in Hanoi

When you are back in Hanoi around 3-4pm, you have more time to explore Hanoi and take an overnight train from Hanoi to Sapa.

See my complete guide on Halong Bay to see if it’s worth visiting.

Day 18 – 20: Sapa

Sapa is a popular city in northern Vietnam, about 380km away from Hanoi. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,600 meters and is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and rice terraces.

Sapa is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong, Dao, and Tay; you can visit their villages when you trek through Sapa.

If you took an overnight train from Hanoi, you would arrive in Lao Cai, a city near the border of China, around 6am. You will need to ask your hotel or trekking company to help arrange van transportation from Lao Cai train station to Sapa town.

If you took an overnight bus from Hanoi, you will arrive in Sapa instead of Lao Cai, but you might need transport from the bus station to Sapa Town.

Some of the most popular activities in Sapa include trekking through rice terraces and ethnic minority villages, Fansipan, Cat Cat Village and checking out Sapa Town itself.

Trekking in Sapa

Trekking is one of the best things you can do in Sapa if you want to get away from the town and see rice terraces and experience nature and how the Hmong people live.

The most popular trekking tours in Sapa include day treks (from 9am to 3pm) or 2 day 1 night treks with an overnight homestay in one of the villages.

You can either book a trekking tour with a tour guide, trekking company or some people do trek in Sapa by themselves without a guide. We used Sapa Sisters and the guide was really informative and friendly.

Fansipan is known as the “roof of Indochina” and it is the highest mountain in Vietnam.

Before cable cars were built, people used to trek 2-3 days to go to the peak of Fansipan. But now there is a cable car that can take visitors up to Fansipan without doing the overnight treks. The cable car only takes about 15-20 minutes to take you up to Fansipan, and you will need to hike about 15 minute to the top of the peak.

On a clear day you can see the beautiful view of the surrounding area and mountains from Fansipan Summit at 3143m (10312 feet). It generally takes about half a day to visit Fansipan.

Cat Cat Village

Cat Cat Village is a popular tourist town about 2km (20-30 minute walk) from Sapa town.

You can either take a taxi or simply walk to Cat Cat Village from the center of Sapa. On a clear day you will see a beautiful view of rice terraces as you take a leisurely stroll to Cat Cat Village.

You need to purchase a ticket to enter Cat Cat Village. Once inside, you can explore the narrow alleys, rose gardens, photo spots, cafes, bamboo forest, the famous waterfall CatScat (this is how the name Cat Cat Village came about).

Many visitors rent traditional ethnic minority clothing when they visit Cat Cat Village. The shop owners will help you with make up and hair as well, so it is a pretty fun experience. It usually takes at least 3-4 hours to fully explore Cat Cat Village.

Explore the town of Sapa

The town of Sapa is an attraction in itself. There is a large lake that many people check out. There are also a lot of restaurants that are popular among tourists.

There are a number of photo spots (usually at cafes and restaurants) that visitors go to take Instagram worthy photos. On a clear day you can get a nice view of the rice terrace from certain spots in Sapa town.

Some of the most popular photo spots in Sapa include Swing SaPa , Ansapa Village , and Moana Sapa .

Where to stay in Sapa

Sapa has a number of nice hotels, some offer fantastic views of the valley and rice terraces.

• Topas Ecolodge : one of the most scenic lodges in Sapa with a gorgeous pool and view of the rice terraces
• Sapa CatCat Hills Resort : beautiful hillside Sapa Hotel with an outdoor pool
• Laxsik Ecolodge : thinking about getting your own lodge? This ecolodge is the perfect choice for you with an amazing mountain view and an outdoor pool
• Pistachio Hotel Sapa : famous for its pool and view, Pistachio Hotel is located in the town of Sapa and is within walking distance to restaurants and attractions.

If you have more time in Thailand or Vietnam, you can check out the beaches of Thailand by flying to Phuket and going to Koh Phi Phi or Krabi and do some snorkeling or just lying on the white sand beach.

If you do not want to visit Northern Vietnam, you can certainly travel south from Da Nang and visit cities such as Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City or the beautiful island of Phu Quoc.

I hope this 3 week Vietnam and Thailand itinerary will inspire you to explore the beautiful countries of Southeast Asia, a destination for every dream.

Useful Resources to Plan Southeast Asia Itinerary

For transportation within Southeast Asia

• 12go for train and bus booking
• Grab app for getting taxis

For hotel booking within Southeast Asia

• Booking.com or Agoda are the best resources for booking hotels
• Hostelworld is great for booking hostels

For booking tours within Southeast Asia

• Klook : Singapore based tour booking website with the most number of tours and budget prices
• Getyourguide and Viator are also good websites to book tours

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Thailand and Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks – Your once in a lifetime adventure

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our Thailand and Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks . This curated journey promises an exploration of two Southeast Asian gems, each offering a unique blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. 

From the bustling markets of Bangkok to the old quarter in Hanoi, and from the picturesque landscapes of Vietnam to the tranquil beaches of Phuket, this itinerary is crafted to showcase the best of these diverse nations. Join us on a three-week odyssey that will immerse you in the heart of these captivating destinations, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Thailand and Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks – itinerary for every traveler’s bucket list

Delve into a tailored exploration of the unique charms and shared marvels of Vietnam and Thailand . Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, our suggested Thailand and Vietnam  itinerary 3 weeks invites you to discover a delightful fusion of culture, nature, and beach serenity. This guide is designed to inspire and unveil the myriad possibilities that await, providing you the flexibility to shape your perfect holiday in these enchanting Southeast Asian destinations.

Day 1: Hanoi

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Red River delta, Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary vibrancy, serving as the perfect starting point for your extraordinary 3 weeks Thailand and Vietnam trip .

Upon landing at Noi Bai International Airport, smoothly navigate through immigration procedures and transition to your Hanoi hotel. Surrounded by the captivating ambiance of Hanoi, your overnight stay marks the beginning of an unforgettable adventure, promising exploration through the enchanting city and beyond.

Day 2: Hanoi

Start your day with a delectable breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, setting the tone for a day filled with exploration. Join your tour guide at 8:30 in the lobby for a comprehensive day discovering Hanoi’s ancient architecture, delightful cuisine, and scenic landscapes. Begin at Ba Dinh Square, where Uncle Ho proclaimed the birth of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Explore historical sites like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Uncle Ho’s stilt house, and the one-pillar pagoda. After a short drive to the outskirts, delve into the fascinating Museum of Ethnology, marveling at its scientific layout showcasing the cultural richness of each ethnic group.

Lunchtime features the renowned Hanoian specialty, Chả Cá, a delightful blend of fresh noodles, grilled fish, sweet and sour sauce, and fresh vegetables. Visit the eco-friendly Hidden Gem Coffee Shop for traditional Vietnamese coffee. Explore the Temple of Literature, visit Long Bien Bridge, and enjoy a cyclo tour through 36 streets of Hanoi Old Quarter . The day concludes with a street food tour, revealing the beauty of Vietnamese culture through its diverse cuisine. This culinary adventure promises surprises in both ingredients and flavors, showcasing the essence of Vietnam’s lifestyle and culture. Dietary requirements are accommodated with prior notice to the guide.

Day 3: Hanoi – Halong Bay

Embark on the discovery of the mesmerizing landscape of Halong Bay, where limestone islands emerge dramatically from the emerald waters, creating an iconic Vietnamese vista. Opt for a convenient shuttle bus to reach Halong, a gateway to this natural wonder. Upon arrival at Tuan Chau Port, a warm welcome awaits with a refreshing drink and a comprehensive cruise briefing. Board the cruise and savor a Vietnamese set menu lunch as you embark on an afternoon cruise through scenic spots like the Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, and Fighting Cock. Explore the remarkable Surprise Cave, among Halong Bay’s most stunning grottoes. Evening activities include a fruit and vegetable carving lesson, traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and options like massages, board games, and guided squid fishing.

Day 4: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue

Start your day early with the mesmerizing sunrise at Halong Bay, one of the world’s wonders. Enjoy a delightful breakfast in the cruise dining room, offering a spread of tempting options accompanied by coffee, tea, and cakes. Rejuvenate with a 30-minute Tai Chi session on the sundeck, guided by our expert instructor. The morning’s highlight includes a boat ride to Titov Island, allowing an hour for swimming and climbing. Reach the island’s summit for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the bay. After this adventure, return to the cruise for a hearty lunch before heading back to the mainland. Dock at Tuan Chau port, savoring the magnificent beauty of HaLong Bay from the sundeck.

Transfer to Noi Bai airport, where a one-hour flight takes you to Hue. Upon landing at Phú Bài airport, transfer to your comfortable hotel and explore the charms of Hue.

After breakfast, journey 8 km eastward to Thanh Thuy’s scenic countryside. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local market, engaging with locals and exploring the 300-year-old Tile-Roofed Bridge of Thanh Toan and an agricultural and fishing tools museum. Return to the city center for a 2-hour exploration of the imperial city, Thien Mu Pagoda, and visits to royal tombs. In the afternoon, venture to King Khai Dinh’s tomb, exploring two traditional villages. Return to the hotel by approximately 5:00 pm.

Day 6: Hue – Da Nang – Hoi An

After breakfast, transfer to Hue train station for a scenic 3-hour journey to Da Nang. Enjoy picturesque views from the train, passing through diverse landscapes. Upon arrival, proceed to Hoi An, stopping at Marble Mountain. In Hoi An, embark on a city tour, engage in lantern-making, and savor Vietnamese Tea Tasting at the serene Tea House, concluding a day of cultural exploration.

Day 7: Hoi An 

Begin your morning at leisure before a 2:00 PM orientation walk through the captivating town of Hoi An . This guided tour unveils the town’s history, visiting a well-preserved centuries-old private house, the Sa Huynh Museum, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda.

The latter part of the morning offers a hands-on lantern-making experience. With the guidance of a skilled instructor, select vibrant silks, construct a bamboo frame, and craft your lantern—a creative keepsake for your journey home. Dinner is at your discretion, and we recommend a romantic sunset dinner with Cinnamon Cruise to relish Hoi An’s enchanting moments.

Day 8: Hoi An

Indulge in a leisurely day in Hoi An, where relaxation takes center stage. Lounge by your resort pool, enjoy a refreshing dip in the ocean, or pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage, facial, or pedicure.

For the more adventurous, consider these optional activities:

• Option 1: Delight in an easy cycling adventure paired with a delightful half-day cooking tour.
• Option 2: Embark on a full-day exploration of Cham Island.
• Option 3: Uncover the cultural richness of the My Son UNESCO World Heritage Site on a half-day tour.
• Option 4: Experience the enchanting Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Bridge on a full-day excursion.

Day 9: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, board a short flight from Da Nang to the lively commercial hub of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City (HCM City). With a population of 10 million, it’s a bustling metropolis. Upon arrival, your dedicated guide and driver will accompany you to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network built by Vietnamese resistance fighters during the struggle for independence. Explore this labyrinth, essential to the Viet Cong’s success against the Americans. A guided tour and an insightful video provide context, and you’ll venture into the tunnels to experience the challenging life within. Return to the city center for check-in after the Cu Chi Tunnels visit.

Day 10: Mekong Delta

Discover the essence of Vietnam in the Mekong Delta, the nation’s rice bowl. Commence your day with a hotel pickup in Ho Chi Minh City and head to Ben Tre. Board a boat on the Ben Tre River at Ham Luong Pier, a Mekong tributary. Observe vibrant river life, visit a brickwork, explore coconut processing workshops, and navigate narrow waterways to a local village. Walk to a family workshop crafting sleep mats, enjoy local fruits and tea, and embark on a bicycle ride along shaded paths, experiencing the countryside’s authentic spirit. Have a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, row along Water Palm Creek in a rowboat and return to Hung Vuong Pier. Drive back to Ho Chi Minh City through rice fields, concluding an immersive Mekong Delta experience.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City – Bangkok

After breakfast, embark on a morning tour of vibrant Ho Chi Minh City , known for its architectural diversity reflecting Vietnam’s historical heritage. Visit iconic sites like the Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, and the Reunification Palace. If time allows, explore the Saigon Opera House and city hall. After lunch, head to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for a brief flight to Bangkok, the next destination on your journey. Upon landing at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, settle into a downtown hotel. Experience Bangkok’s vibrant nightlife uniquely with a rice barge dinner cruise aboard the Manohra Cruise. Glide along the Chao Phraya River, enjoying views of landmarks like Wat Arun Temple of Dawn and the Grand Palace, creating unforgettable memories in just 2 hours.

Day 12: Bangkok

Commence your day in Bangkok with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a fascinating exploration. Begin at Wat Traimit, housing the world’s largest Golden Buddha statue, an impressive 3 meters high and weighing 5.5 tons, carved entirely from solid gold. Move on to Wat Pho to marvel at the immense reclining Buddha statue, symbolizing Buddha’s entry into Nirvana. A mere 800 meters away stands the iconic Grand Palace, a dazzling testament to Bangkok’s grandeur and a must-visit landmark.

As evening descends, the perfect conclusion to a day of sightseeing is a culinary adventure by Tuk Tuk. Boarding the Tuk Tuk at Sam Yan MRT with our expert guide, your first stop is a Northeastern Thai restaurant, offering delectable dishes like spicy raw papaya salad, deep-fried crispy catfish with spicy sauce, and more—an immersion into the region’s unique cuisine. The night concludes with a visit to a local rooftop bar for refreshing drinks and stunning views of the Chao Phraya River.

Day 13: Bangkok

Commence your day with an early breakfast at the hotel, then journey to Southern Ratchaburi Province. Along the 90km route taking approximately 1.5 hours, traverse Samut Songkhram, Thailand’s primary region for salt production. The highlight is the world-famous MaeKlong railway market, a spectacle where vendors swiftly clear stalls as a train passes. Continue to the iconic Damnoen Saduak floating market, explore the canals, and take a boat to immerse yourself in the countryside ambiance. Capture picturesque moments as merchants offer an array of food, fruit, and local products. Return to Bangkok for an evening exploration of the city.

Day 14: Bangkok – Ayutthaya

Embark on a northbound expedition to Ayutthaya, starting with Wat Phu Khao Thong, a captivating monument dating back to 1387. Explore the Ayutthaya Historical Park and the ancient palace grounds, visiting significant temples like Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and Viharn Phra Mongkolbopit. Enjoy a flavorsome Thai lunch and proceed to Wat Lokaya Sutha to marvel at the reclining Buddha of Ayutthaya. Conclude your historical exploration in the late afternoon, returning to Bangkok enriched with Ayutthaya’s cultural richness.

Day 15: Bangkok – Phuket

Start your day with a satisfying hotel breakfast, complete the check-out, and head to Bangkok airport for a short flight to the enchanting Phuket. Situated in Thailand’s southwest, embraced by the Andaman Sea, Phuket beckons with its natural beauty. The day is yours to relish in the largest island of Thailand, known as the “Pearl of the South.” With limestone karst islets encircling pristine beaches, Phuket offers a haven of natural wonders, vibrant resorts, and coastal villages. Immerse yourself in leisure, sports, and cultural riches, as Phuket unveils its diverse tapestry for an unforgettable escape.

Day 16: Phuket

Embark on an immersive adventure connecting with our rescued elephants, understanding their communication methods and vital role as keystone species. The day includes roundtrip transfers, a light breakfast, vegetarian lunch and dinner buffets, and refreshing drinks. Gain insights into Asian elephants’ history and challenges, participate in feeding one for breakfast, explore the sanctuary with an expert guide, and witness their hydrotherapy session. Conclude the day by preparing elephant food, joining them for dinner, followed by your own satisfying vegetarian meal.

Day 17: Phuket – Koh Phi Phi

Commence the day with an early pick-up around 5:00–5:15, starting your adventure at the Royal Phuket Marina. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast before boarding a premium speedboat for the famous Maya Bay, featured in the iconic movie, THE BEACH. The early departure ensures a crowd-free experience on the pristine beach with soft white sand, crystalline waters, verdant mountains, and a serene ambiance. Capture stunning moments at Loh Samah Bay’s viewpoint behind Maya Bay.

Explore Pileh Lagoon, an emerald gem surrounded by limestone mountains, marvel at Viking Cave and Monkey Cliff, and enjoy a late-morning snorkeling session in the vibrant coral reef. A delectable lunch awaits at the Private Beach Restaurant, offering Thai and Western cuisine. Head to Bamboo Island for more relaxation and snorkeling. The tour concludes at the Royal Phuket Marina by 15:00, followed by a comfortable return to your hotel, leaving the remainder of the day for exploration at your own pace.

Day 18: Phuket

Savor a day of pure bliss on the captivating island of Phuket. Relax on its immaculate beaches or plunge into the lively marine world through snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fauna. Consider a boat or catamaran charter to explore the serene islands of the Andaman Sea, crafting memories that linger. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the historical allure of Phuket Town, uncovering its cultural treasures. With a myriad of options, your day unfolds with limitless possibilities and enthralling diversions, ensuring an indelible experience on this tropical paradise.

Day 19: Phuket – Chiang Mai

Begin your day by heading to the airport for your flight to Chiang Mai. Upon arrival at Chiang Mai Airport, a transfer will take you to your hotel in the Old Town area. After a satisfying lunch, set out on a half-day city tour.

At 13:30, ascend to the Gold Temple atop the mountain using a gondola. Inside the main temple, a stunning golden spire takes center stage amidst historical murals, shrines, and statues. Explore the complex, which features a replica of the Emerald Buddha statue. Outside, discover the Shine of the White Elephant, a viewing terrace, colossal gongs, a wall of bells, and more. Descend the Naga Serpent staircase with 309 steps to continue your adventure. Return to downtown Chiang Mai to visit the Three Kings Monuments and the Chiang Mai City Arts and Culture Center. Please note that the Chiang Mai Arts & Culture Center is closed on Mondays and during the Songkran Festival. Operating hours from Tuesday to Sunday are 8:30-17:00. Remember to dress respectfully and remove your shoes when inside the main temple. Shoe racks are available for your convenience, or you can stow them in your backpack.

Day 20: Chiang Mai

Embark on a day of care and learning with Patara’s Baby Elephant program—an ideal journey focusing on the well-being of pregnant elephants and mothers with their babies. Immerse yourself in the conservation philosophy of “The Elephant Conservation In Action,” actively participating in their daily healthcare routine. This includes health inspections, feeding, walking with the elephants for exercise, and bathing. Witness the elephants’ natural interactions within their families in a serene environment. The knowledgeable staff at Patara will share insights into their daily care. Notably, this trip emphasizes ethical treatment, omitting elephant rides and making it suitable for everyone, especially families, children, and animal enthusiasts.

Day 21: Chiang Mai

After a delightful final breakfast in Chiang Mai, enjoy a leisurely morning to unwind and explore on your own. Later, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight, marking the conclusion of your Thailand and Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary .

Final thoughts

Tick off your ultimate travel’s bucket list with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with the Thailand and Vietnam itinerary 3 weeks , a journey that encapsulates the essence of Southeast Asia’s diverse beauty. Viland Travel’s customized multi-countries tour s adds a unique touch to your exploration, ensuring every moment is tailored to your preferences. 

From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil landscapes of Vietnam, this meticulously crafted itinerary offers an immersive experience into the rich cultures, historical wonders, and natural marvels of these enchanting destinations. 

Let Viland Travel be your guide on this extraordinary odyssey, where every day unfolds as a personalized chapter in the story of your unforgettable journey.

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Vietnam or Thailand – which one should you visit first?

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written by Lottie Gross

updated 12.04.2019

Whether you’re backpacking around Southeast Asia or you’re planning a holiday to the region, Vietnam and Thailand are likely to feature on your hit list. Both destinations offer variety of pleasures, from fabulous coastlines with idyllic islands to mountainous regions and breathtaking natural wonders. But when it comes to exploring Vietnam or Thailand, which one should you visit first? We’ve whittled it down by category to help you decide where to go based on your interests.

Best for: food

Best for: nightlife, best for: beaches, best for: culture, best for: active adventure, best for: urban adventures.

Food influences so many of our travel decisions these days, so if you plan your trips based on cuisine you’ll have a hard time deciding between Vietnam and Thailand. Both countries have excellent eats on offer, with plenty of zingy, fresh flavours and comforting hot noodle dishes.

Thai food has all the classics known the world over, like pad Thai or massaman curry, and is heavy on the coconut milk and shrimp paste. But Vietnamese cuisine is gaining in popularity too, thanks to its simplicity and healthy nature – try bánh mì (sandwiches) filled with raw vegetables and sweet minced pork, or enjoy a comforting pho (rice noodle broth).

Vietnamese beef noodle soup © Stasis Photo/Shutterstock

If you love a good party, both Thailand and Vietnam present excellent options. Full moon parties abound on Thailand’s islands (the original being Ko Pha Ngan ), and even when there is no full moon, beach bars and nightclubs keep the good vibes going every night. In the capital of Bangkok, the party scene is equally wild, with bars serving beer towers and cocktails in buckets down the main backpacker thoroughfare, Khao San Road – though avoid its seedier side and ignore the tuk-tuk drivers offering lifts to less salubrious late-night activities.

Vietnam’s nightlife scene is a little more subdued, and while you will find clubs in its big cities, the after-dark highlight here is bia hơi. Brewed in small bars, or sometimes even in people’s living rooms, this local lager is sipped from small glasses while sitting in tiny plastic chairs, often on a street corner as a frenetic city buzzes around you. There’s no more Vietnamese experience than this.

Inspired by both Vietnam and Thailand? Try our new tailor-made travel service and you can enjoy a fully personalised trip planned by a local expert.

Thailand's full moon Party © Parkpoom Kotcharat/Shutterstock

Both Thailand and Vietnam have a coastline, the former lapped by the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, and the latter washed over by the South China Sea. But there is one clear winner here: for its pristine sands and sheer variety of beaches, Thailand is the place to go.

Vietnam’s coastline is long, and there are a few fun stops along it (Hoi An is delightful and Nha Trang and Da Nang make great enjoyable city breaks), but the beaches here can often be polluted and facilities are nowhere near as sophisticated as its neighbour. In Thailand, you’ve got an overwhelming choice of beach break destinations, from the coast spreading east and west from Bangkok and the islands strung out in the Andaman sea.

Read our guide to Thailand’s best beaches here .

View of Koh Nang Yuan, Thailand © Thongchai Kitiyanantawong/Shutterstock

Both Thailand and Vietnam have fascinating culture, but the Thailand’s temples win out for their sheer splendour. Bangkok’s Grand Palace is a striking introduction to Buddhism for any first-time visitor, with its shimmering gold stupas and serene-faced Buddhas, and elsewhere in country you’ll find incredible structures like the pristine Wat Tham Pha Plong surrounded by jungle just, or the intriguing Wat Rong Khun at Chiang Rai. Entirely white on the outside, it’s painted with eye-popping, colourful murals depicting modern vices on the inside – a fascinating commentary on modern life.

There are hundreds of religious and cultural festivals throughout Thailand too, which offer an insight into the country’s traditions and beliefs like nothing else – Songkhran, the Thai New year, is the most exciting of all.

Modern culture abounds in Bangkok, too. The Bangkok Art & Culture Centre is a great place to start, then you can delve into the local art scene at independent galleries like Kalwit Studio and 100 Tonson Gallery.

Wat Rong Khun (White temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand © PhotoGraphic/Shutterstock

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If getting outdoors is your bag, head to Vietnam. This country’s natural beauty is astounding, from the astonishing karst rock formations of Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long (both stunning kayaking destinations) to the undulating valleys among its northern hills.

Trekking here is utterly superb, with hardcore multi-day hikes and less challenging day walks available. You’ll pass terraced rice paddies, limestone mountains and get to meet some of the country’s ethnic minorities in the rural hill stations. Try the trek to Sa Pa , or for something a little more off-beat, head to Phong Nha-Ke Bang where you can trek deep into caves or sleep under canvas in thick jungle (guided only due to unexploded ordnance).

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam © Mr. Kosal/Shutterstock

Bangkok is a sprawling, glitzy city with its own unique blend of chaos and an abundance of great accommodation options , but for dynamic, ever-surprising and fascinating urban adventures, Vietnam wins this round.

With two major cities – Hanoi in the north and Ho Chi Minh City in the south – it’s the ultimate destination for a holiday sandwiched by two thrilling city breaks. Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) has the gripping but devastating War Remnants Museum which details the horrors of the Vietnam-American war, and the capital Hanoi is home to the mausoleum of the country’s embalmed former dictator and a beautiful lake with a pretty pagoda at its centre.

Both have great bars and restaurants, good accommodation options and an addictively frenetic vibe – plus, they’re much more affordable than Thailand’s capital.

Ho Chi Minh City War Remnants Museum © Scott Biales/Shutterstock

If you have your heart set on visiting Vietnam, we recommend you check out our guide to the best things to do in Vietnam to start planning your trip here.

Top image: Wat Rong Khun (White temple) in Chiang Rai, Thailand © PhotoGraphic/Shutterstock

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Thailand and Vietnam: The Ultimate 1 Month Itinerary

I love the hub of cities, the serenity of the countryside, extraordinary cuisine, beaches, and limestone karsts.

Southeast Asia has it all, and more. I wish I’d had several months to enjoy this region, but it’s hard to be a full-time traveler when your other love is  working 50 hours a week in television .

If you’re also short on time and want to take in the spectacular scenery of Thailand and Vietnam, you’ll LOVE this 1-month itinerary. It’s a diverse mix of some of Southeast Asia’s highlights at a manageable pace. It includes two major cities (Bangkok, Hanoi), beautiful beaches (Railay, Koh Tao), countryside (Mai Chau), and SPECTACULAR limestone karsts (Khao Sok, Halong Bay, La Han Bay).

Yes, there are a zillion blog posts about how to travel this area!  However, packing lists and itineraries differ from traveler to traveler, and I always love reading those details as they inspire ideas of my own.

Let’s get to it!

Bangkok: 4-5 Days

Everything you’ve heard about Bangkok is true: It’s humid, crowded, chaotic…but  completely electrifying .

Spend  Day 1  getting acclimated to the time difference and readjusting to being on land after 30+ hours in transit. I met two other people at my hostel and tagged along with them to a  charming floating village . It was completely by chance, but it’s the  perfect  first day in southeast Asia.

Spend Days 2 and 3  doing the touristy things: visiting the temples, sampling street food, drinking coconut juice out of a bag, and shopping at Pantip Plaza. Enjoy the nightlife, and be smart about it (don’t drink more than you can handle, don’t accept drinks from strangers, don’t walk back to your hostel alone, etc).

Spend Day 4 hanging with any new friends or checking out another place you’ve heard of through word of mouth. A few awesome activities near Bangkok: bicycle safari of the countryside  or a day tour of the ruins of Ayutthaya, a smaller version of Siem Reap.

Where I Stayed:   In a Box Hostel , which fit all four of my criteria: Clean, quiet, close to the metro, and NOT on Khao San Road. If you’re going to splurge, Bangkok is the city to do it: there’s plenty of plush accommodation at reasonable prices.

Travel Day: Bangkok -> Koh Tao

There’s a bus and boat combo straight to Koh Tao from Bangkok, which takes about 10 hours. The overnight train/ferry option takes 13 hours. You can also fly direct from Bangkok to Koh Samui and take the ferry to Koh Tao, but it’s pricey.

(When I did this trip, I spent two disappointing nights on Koh Samui. Some people love  Koh Samui… maybe it’s good for luxury getaways and honeymoons, but from my perspective as a flash packer, it fell flat and felt artificial. I forget I even went there because it was so unmemorable. Maybe I didn’t go to the right places, but it just didn’t resonate with me…I wish I’d gotten to Koh Tao sooner.)

Koh Tao: 4 days

What is there to do on Koh Tao? Oh man. You can do as much as you’d like, or you can laze on the beach and do absolutely nothing. This is the place to recharge . If you’re feeling spry, there’s an endless supply of water activities, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Two of my favorite activities of my entire trip were on Koh Tao: Snorkeling (the marine life is INCREDIBLE) and stand up paddle boarding at sunset. If I’d had more time, I may have built up the courage to try diving. Learn from my mistakes — you’ll want a GoPro for this .

Where I Stayed: Splurged on a 1-bedroom suite at the delightful Sun Smile Lodge to escape the Full Moon Party crowd that overran all affordable lodging.

Note: If you’re going to Koh Tao to get your open water certification, add an extra day. Most dive courses will provide accommodation.

Travel Day: Koh Tao -> Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok isn’t quick to get to from Koh Tao, but it’s  so  worth it. Plus, it will break up the beaches of Koh Tao and the Andaman Coast. You’ll need to take a ferry-bus combo, and it takes 12 hours.

Tip: Use the restroom BEFORE getting on the bus. There are no stops and even though the bus is supposed to have a bathroom, it may be “broken”, as it was on mine.

Khao Sok National Park: 2 days

Of this month-long itinerary,  Khao Sok   is the most beautiful spot . It’s a man-made lake, yes, but the setting is serene and spectacular. It’s beauty on a larger-than-life scale, constantly surrounding you on all sides. Cameras don’t do it justice.

Beyond the lake, there’s a lot to see in Khao Sok – canoeing down rivers, jungle trekking, and exploring caves.

Where I Stayed:  The Banana Lodge, which was a little outside the main drag. If I had to do it again, I’d stay closer to town. Most guesthouses should be able to arrange tours for you within the National Park, including canoeing, trekking, and longtail tour of the magnificent lake.

Read more: Is Cheow Lan Lake Thailand’s Most Underrated Destination?

Travel Day: Khao Sok National Park -> Krabi (Ao Nang)

It’s about 3 hours to Krabi/Ao Nang from Khao Sok via bus. It’s a relatively easy travel day, giving you a bonus half day at Ao Nang.

Ao Nang/Railay: 3 days

If you love jaw-dropping scenery and immaculate sunsets, you HAVE to visit Railay.

Spend Day 1  exploring the area around Ao Nang. Take a 15-minute long tail boat taxi to Railay and walk the trail to Phra Nang (an equally or perhaps even more spectacular beach). Relax. Take TONS of photos. Enjoy the sunset on Railay. Prices on Railay are inflated, so pack snacks.

Spend Day  2 on a day trip to the surrounding islands (your hostel or guesthouse can book this for you). I did the 4-island catamaran tour that included Koh Hong. It was rushed and crowded, but beautiful. (If you make enough friends, you can split the cost of renting a boat for a day and see it at your own pace.)

Spend Day 3 doing whatever you want.

Where I Stayed : Slumber Party at the Beach Hostel . Yes, it is a party hostel, but the staff is fantastic and they organize fun activities for their guests, including pub crawls and a camping trip on a private island. (If you’re not the partying type but want to stay close to the beach, try the neighboring Zabava Guest House .)

If Time: Add 4 days on Koh Lanta, which is three hours away by ferry.

Travel Day: Fly Krabi, Thailand -> Hanoi, Vietnam

Flights from Krabi to Hanoi are around $100-$250. Some include a layover in Bangkok. I flew direct for about $230. (Remember, you’ll need a visa for Vietnam.)

Hanoi: 2-3 Days

You can use Hanoi as a base to explore the Northern Vietnam region, as most of the tours depart from there.

Two highlights: My first ever  foodie crawl  (the food is delicious and our guide was fantastic), and drinking 25 cent beers at Bia Hoi Corner. The lowlights? There’s still a lot of pain and anger towards the Western world, particularly palpable at any of the museums.

Where I Stayed : Little Hanoi Diamond , which is the best value I’ve ever had traveling. I opted for the dorm room, where for $6/night, you get a clean bed and a delicious breakfast. The downside? No common area to hang out in to meet other travelers, although it was fairly easy to meet others in the dorm room.

Mai Chau: 2 Days

I hadn’t heard of Mai Chau  until I arrive in Hanoi, but it was the highlight of my time in Northern Vietnam — it had the most amount of sunshine! There aren’t the infamous rice terraces of Sapa, but there are glorious mountains and beautiful rice fields. I immensely enjoyed my afternoon riding a bike throughout the region, waving to the smiling local kids.

Where I Stayed : I purchased a two day tour from my hostel for $45, which included meals, transportation, and one night basic dorm accommodation at Mai Chau Nature Place .

I also did a tour to Sapa, but it was a poor value in comparison: nearly 3x as expensive, twice as far from Hanoi, and hundreds more tourists. Sapa  is  beautiful — but there’s a tout culture that has evolved as a result of the tourism explosion. It’s an ethical dilemma worthy of its own post.

Read more:  A Glimpse into Vietnamese Life in Mai Chau

Ha Long Bay (or Cat Ba Island/Lan Ha Bay): 2-3 Days

I recommend at least a 2-day cruise, as you actually get to go deeper into the bay, past the highly trafficked and polluted areas. It also takes about 4 hours to get to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi. A 1-day trip would mean 8 hours on a bus!

Or,  instead of Ha Long Bay, head straight to Cat Ba island for a tour of neighboring Lan Ha Bay — which is much quieter and far less polluted.

Where I Stayed : I did the 3-day, 2 night tour from Halong Party Cruises . Aside from sketchy/unsafe rock climbing and a tour guide too focused on keeping to schedule than maintaining the party, it was decent. The best part was a night on Freedom Island– a private island located within Lan Ha Bay. I booked directly through my hotel and they cut $10 off the ticket price. (It’s also cheaper/tamer alternative from the Hanoi Backpackers’ tour — which, apparently, has descended into 20-year-olds marooned on an island, drinking until they’re on the verge of alcohol poisoning.)

Remaining Days: You Pick!

This itinerary leaves a cushion of 3-5 days, depending on the exact length of your travels. This enables freedom to stay longer in some places — you could hit up Koh Phangan   on your way to Koh Tao, or add an island to the Andaman Coast portion of your itinerary. Or take the train from Hanoi to Hoi An, design custom clothes, and fly out of Danang.

For my free days, I saw Sapa, and then flew to Singapore for 36 hours. And from Singapore, home.

Closing Thoughts

You left out Siem Reap! Believe me, I KNOW. If I could have made it work without feeling insanely rushed, I would have. Cambodia deserves more than a four-day whirlwind.

Everything moves slowly in this part of the world, and limiting yourself to two or three geographical areas allows yourself time to enjoy the areas without spending all your free time in transit. In fact, the reason it took me so long to visit Southeast Asia was because I could never budget enough time to see everything!

For the biggest weather rewards, do this trip in reverse. Going from the sunny Andaman coast to drizzly, chilly Hanoi was a bummer, but there was a reason: Vietnam is considered to be the more difficult of the two countries for independent travelers. I opted to begin my Southeast Asia adventure in Thailand as a cultural warm up.

Koh Tao is the logistics hitch in this itinerary.  Koh Tao was a must for me, but it does add a lot of additional travel time since it’s the only stop on Thailand’s Gulf Coast. If you don’t care for snorkeling or diving and want to lounge on the beach, consider skipping Koh Tao. Head directly from Bangkok to Khao Sok, then on to the Andaman Coast.

Don’t be afraid of the group tour if it suits you.  My trade is a lot of logistics wizardry with a little storytelling, and solo travel sharpens those skills. Occasionally, it’s nice to give the administrative /coordinating duties to someone else. After two days solo in Bangkok, I hopped on an  8 day tour with GAdventures . It gave me a chance to breathe and focus on enjoying Thailand. Once we landed in Koh Tao, it was back to solo travel.

Always have spare toilet paper and hand sanitizer in your pocket or purse.  You will need this, daily. Trust me.

Don’t take selfies with the Buddha. This is extremely disrespectful. Never turn your back to Buddha.

How Much I Spent

My flight was free thanks to miles.  After remaining expenses, my trip cost around $1600. It would’ve been a lot less had I traveled solo the entire time — closer to $1000.

Additional Resources for One Month in Southeast Asia

• For accommodation, HotelsCombined , Agoda or Booking.com have the best prices.
• For navigating to/from different places independently, Travelfish  has a WEALTH of info.
• Here’s  my packing list  — which includes all of the gear, apps, and resources I use for all of my solo trips.
• Like every solo traveler that’s ever written a blog post, I buy travel insurance from World Nomads .
• Vietnam requires a visa. If you’re flying into Vietnam internationally as this itinerary suggests, the easiest process is obtaining a Visa on Arrival. I used MyVietnamVisa  for a single use VOA and everything went seamlessly.

Author: Laryssa

Laryssa has spent 6+ years working on an assortment of film and television projects. She writes about her experiences to help (and amuse) others. If she's not working, she's either traveling, reading or writing about travel, or planning travel. Follow Laryssa on Google+ , Twitter , or Facebook .

October 9, 2018

nice post Day spends on Khao Sok National Park is amazing.

June 1, 2019

Hello Laryssa, Awesome place!!! Firstly, thanks for your sharing photos and article. Really, it’s a great place in the World. Actuality, Thailand & Vietnam are dream country in Asia. I love the post. Thank You!!!

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Maximizing 14 Days in Vietnam and Thailand: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Wonder how to make the best of 14 days in vietnam and thailand check out this article to gain a comprehensive guide for your journey.

• Updated: December 5, 2023 Phuong Khanh in Beautiful Thailand , Beautiful Vietnam , Thailand itineraries , Thailand Travel Tips , Vietnam Itineraries , Vietnam Travel Tips 4 comments.

Why to Spend 14 Days in Vietnam and Thailand?

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

Is 14 days enough to truly experience Vietnam and Thailand? It’s a valid question given the cultural richness and diverse attractions of these two countries.

Even though 2 weeks in Vietnam and Thailand might sound quite short to discover all the interesting places, you can still delve into the highlights and even some hidden treasures. While Vietnam has been famous for its bustling cities, historical sites, and tranquil landscapes all over the country, Thailand is renowned for its systems of ancient temples, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities. With 14 days in Vietnam and Thailand, you will surely gain varied experiences when stopping by numerous destinations.

When to Visit Vietnam and Thailand?

As the weather plays a significant role in shaping the experiences of travelers, understanding the distinct climate patterns in each country can help you make the most of your journey in 14 days in Vietnam and Thailand.

Vietnam’s Varied Climate

Vietnam boasts a diverse climate due to its elongated geography. The north experiences four distinct seasons, with chilly winters and hot, humid summers. Central Vietnam enjoys a tropical climate, making it an ideal year-round destination. The south, including Ho Chi Minh City, has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Be prepared for some rain, especially if you visit during the wet season from May to October. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for those humid days, and don’t forget a light rain jacket or umbrella.

>>> Read more: The Best Time to Visit Vietnam .

Thailand’s Tropical Paradise

Thailand , on the other hand, predominantly offers a tropical climate throughout the year. The dry season, from November to February, is the most popular time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall. March to May marks the hot season, with scorching temperatures, especially in central Thailand. The wet season, from June to October, brings heavy rains and can lead to flooding in some areas, but it’s also a time when lush green landscapes flourish.

Ideal Itineraries for the Best 14 Days in Vietnam and Thailand

Itinerary 1: explore all highlights of vietnam and thailand.

Day 1 – Hanoi Arrival & Leisure: Arrive in Hanoi and spend your free time relaxing at the hotel or discovering Hanoi city.

Day 2 – Hanoi Highlights Tour: Hanoi City Tour – Visit attraction highlights in Hanoi: Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, Tran Quoc Pagoda, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, and Museum of Ethnology.

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay Cruise: Head to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi, get on a luxurious cruise, and explore the bay.

Day 4 – Return & Fly to Hue: After spending a morning on the cruise, you will get back to Hanoi to take a flight to Hue – a city in central Vietnam.

Day 5 – Hue City Discovery: Hue City Tour – Discover famous places in Hue: Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel, and Dong Ba Market.

Day 6 – To Hoi An & Biking Tour: You will move to Hoi An Ancient Town by car to enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the road and join a biking tour around the town in the afternoon.

Day 7 – Da Nang to HCMC Flight: Head to Da Nang to take a flight to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), you will have free time in HCMC in the evening.

Day 8 – Mekong Delta Excursion: Travel to the Mekong Delta and explore the region on a traditional board. You will get back to HCMC before dinner.

Day 9 – HCMC Tour & Bangkok Bound: Half-day City Tour in HCMC, visit Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Saigon Post Office. Fly to Bangkok in the afternoon.

Day 10 – Bangkok Temple Tour: Join the Bangkok City Tour and explore several famous temples in the city like Wat Traimit, Wat Pho, and Wat Phra Kaew.

Day 11 – Chiang Mai Arrival & Doi Suthep: Fly to Chiang Mai from Bangkok in the morning and discover Doi Suthep Temple in the afternoon.

Day 12 – Chiang Mai City Exploration: Explore Chiang Mai via a city tour, visiting Bhubing Palace, Chiang Mai Temple, Phra Singh Temple, and Chedi Luang Temple.

Day 13 – Thai Cooking Class: You will participate in a cooking class on this day, learning the recipes and tricks of Thai cuisine.

Day 14 – Departure from Chiang Mai: Depart from Chiang Mai, the end of the itinerary.

Itinerary 2: Immerse in the Nature – Best for Adventure Lovers

Day 1 – Arrival & Free Time in Hanoi: After you arrive in Hanoi, you will have free time to relax and discover the city at your own pace.

Day 2 – Hanoi City Tour: Embark on the Hanoi City Tour in the morning and watch the Water Puppet Show in the afternoon. You will travel to Sa Pa by a night train.

Day 3 – Sa Pa Trekking Adventure: Discover Sa Pa by trekking to Cat Cat and Sin Chai local villages and see the Cat Cat Waterfall.

Day 4 – Sa Pa Exploration & Return to Hanoi: Enjoy the Sa Pa Tour with two options: trekking to Lao Chai and Ta Van villages or visiting Fansipang Peak – the Roof of Indochina. You will get on the night train to get back to Hanoi.

Day 5 – Ha Long Bay Cruise Experience: After arriving in Hanoi, you will travel to Ha Long Bay to get on a cruise, join some on-deck activities, and visit some stops on the bay.

Day 6 – Morning Cruise & Hanoi Night Stay: You will spend the morning on the cruise before getting back to Hanoi and spend the night here.

Day 7 – Hanoi to Bangkok Flight: Fly to Bangkok from Hanoi and have free time to relax.

Day 8 – Bangkok’s Grand Palace & Temples: You will get to discover the Grand Palace and a set of sensational temples in Bangkok, including Wat Phra Kaew and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.

Day 9 – Ayutthaya Day Trip: Venture to Ayutthaya and explore several spiritual temples in the ancient capital of Thailand. You will get back to Bangkok City in the afternoon.

Day 10 – Kanchanaburi Visit & Return: You will travel to Kanchanaburi, a riverside town outside Bangkok, and visit the Bridge of River Kwai and the Thailand – Burma Railway Museum. Head back to Bangkok in the afternoon.

Day 11 – Fly to Phuket & Relax: Travel to Phuket from Bangkok by airplane and have leisure time to relax after the flight.

Day 12 – Phuket Free Day: Free day in Phuket , explore the island at your own pace.

Day 13 – Phi Phi Islands Excursion: Embark on a journey to Phi Phi Islands, enjoy the beauty of the tranquil beach, and visit Maya Bay.

Day 14 – Departure from Phuket: Depart from Phuket, and finish your itinerary.

Itinerary 3: Enjoy Relaxation on the Beaches in Vietnam and Thailand

Day 1 – Arrival & Hanoi Exploration: Arrive in Hanoi and have free time to explore Hanoi on your way.

Day 2 – Hanoi City Tour & Cycling: Embark on the Hanoi City Tour and visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum , One Pillar Pagoda, etc., and cycle in the Old Quarter.

Day 3 – Ha Long Bay Cruise Begins: Travel to Ha Long City by car and then get on a luxury cruise, visiting Lan Ha Bay and joining in some activities on deck.

Day 4 – Cruise Activities & Kayaking: You will spend the morning relaxing on the cruise and visiting Viet Hai jetty, then swim or kayak in the afternoon.

Day 5 – Cat Ba Island & Flight to Da Nang: Visit Cat Ba Island in the morning before heading back to Hanoi to take a flight to Da Nang and travel to Hoi An.

Day 6 – Hoi An Cultural Activities: Explore Hoi An by joining interesting activities here, for example, participating in a cooking class or visiting a vegetable village.

Day 7 – Relaxing Day in Hoi An: Leisure day in Hoi An to relax and enjoy the beach.

Day 8 – Flight to Ho Chi Minh City: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City from Da Nang and enjoy free time.

Day 9 – Cu Chi Tunnels & HCMC Tour: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels and explore some of HCMC’s historical sites: War Remnants Museum, Old Saigon Post Office , Saigon Opera House, etc.

Day 10 – Mekong Delta Adventure: You will get to embark on a Mekong Delta trip, join a boat ride, visit traditional villages, and enjoy local music and food.

Day 11 – Phuket Arrival: Fly to Phuket from HCMC and attend the Phuket Fantasea show with dinner.

Day 12 – Phi Phi & Surrounding Islands Tour: Enjoy the speedboat tour to Phi Phi, Maya, and Khai Nok Island.

Day 13 – Free Day in Phuket: Free day in Phuket so you can relax on your own.

Day 14 – Phuket Departure: Depart from Phuket, end of 16 days in Vietnam and Thailand.

>>> Looking for more wonderful beach holidays in these countries, you can refer to our list of best Vietnam beach & leisure or Thailand beach vacations .

Itinerary 4: Discover Vietnam and Thailand and Stop by Cambodia

Day 1 – Bangkok Arrival & Exploration: Arrive in Bangkok and enjoy free time exploring the city.

Day 2 – Bangkok City Highlights Tour: Bangkok City Tour – Visit Khlong Lat Mayom floating market, boat ride along canals, and discover Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and Chatuchak Market.

Day 3 – Chiang Mai Temples Discovery: Fly to Chiang Mai from Bangkok and visit Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man.

Day 4 – Chiang Mai Activities & Culture: Join interesting activities in Chiang Mai, like visiting the elephant rescue center or participating in a Thai cooking class.

Day 5 – Phuket Arrival & Beach Leisure: Fly to Phuket from Chiang Mai and have leisure time to relax by the beach or explore the Old Town.

Day 6 – Phi Phi Island Excursion: Full-day excursion to Phi Phi Island.

Day 7 – Siem Reap Arrival & Relaxation: Fly to Siem Reap (Cambodia) and enjoy free time to relax after the flight.

Day 8 – Angkor Wat Exploration: Explore the famous Angkor Wat – a UNESCO World Heritage Centre .

Day 9 – Journey to Hanoi: Depart Cambodia for Hanoi, Vietnam.

Day 10 – Ha Long Bay Cruise Adventure: Head to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi by car and get on a luxury cruise to travel around the bay.

Day 11 – Morning Cruise & Da Nang Flight: Enjoy the morning on the cruise and fly to Da Nang from Hanoi in the afternoon.

Day 12 – Discovering Da Nang: Spend a full day exploring Da Nang by visiting Golden Bridge, Ba Na Hill.

Day 13 – Ho Chi Minh City Tour: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and join the half-day city tour, visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, and Independence Palace.

Day 14 – Departure from Ho Chi Minh City: Depart Ho Chi Minh City.

Interesting Events to Join in Vietnam and Thailand

Tet festival in vietnam.

Often referred to as the Vietnamese New Year, the Tet Festival is the most significant event in Vietnam’s cultural calendar. Celebrated at the same time as the Chinese New Year, it marks the arrival of spring based on the lunisolar calendar. Families gather to share festive meals, decorate their homes with red and gold (colors signifying luck and prosperity), and give each other gifts. The streets are alive with parades, lion dances, and fireworks. For travelers, Tet offers an unparalleled insight into the richness of Vietnamese culture and traditions.

Hoi An Lantern Festival

Hoi An Colorful Lanterns

A mesmerizing monthly event, the Hoi An Lantern Festival transforms the quaint ancient town of Hoi An into a magical world of lantern-lit wonder. Held on the full moon of every lunar month, this event is a tribute to the town’s rich history and its connection with the Silk Route. As the sun sets, electric lights go off, and thousands of colorful lanterns glow along the streets, over bridges, and on the Thu Bon River. Join locals as they release paper lanterns on the water, sending wishes for health, happiness, and prosperity.

Thailand’s Songkran Festival

Songkran Festival

Welcome to the world’s biggest water fight! Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year celebration, occurs in mid-April and is famously recognized for its water festivities. Originally, people poured water over others as a symbol of purification and washing away sins. Today, it has evolved into an exuberant event where locals and tourists alike engage in water battles using buckets, hoses, and water guns. While Bangkok’s celebrations are notoriously wild, the festival is observed throughout the country with religious ceremonies, processions, and traditional performances.

Loy Krathong Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand

One of Thailand’s most picturesque festivals, Loy Krathong, or the “festival of lights,” is celebrated during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in November). Participants craft “krathongs” or small floating baskets from banana leaves, decorate them with flowers, incense, and candles, and release them on waterways, paying respect to the goddess of water. In Chiang Mai, the event is even more magical with the simultaneous celebration of Yi Peng. Thousands of lanterns are released into the night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle that symbolizes letting go of negativity and making wishes for the future.

We trust the details provided above will assist you in organizing your 14 days in Vietnam and Thailand. Don’t delay any further and start preparing for your journey ! If you require any guidance in crafting your trip, do reach out to us for a personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences. Thank you immensely for taking the time to read this!

Read more: 

• Top 9 magnificent Thailand caves that will thrill every adventure enthusiast
• Top 10 family-friendly destinations in Thailand
• Vietnam with Kids: How to Plan a Perfect Family Trip

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Phuong Khanh

Hello, my name is Khanh, I'm a travel blogger at IDC Travel. After my adventures and what I've learned on my trips and from my research, I will help you with planning your trip to Vietnam & Southeast Asia and make your journey remarkable.

Comments(4)

Do you have tours starting in HCMCity please? Ending in Bangkok.

Hi Pam, Thank you so much for your interest! In fact, we customize almost tour itineraries to meet every customer’s preference. Our travel expert will reach out to you with a suggested program as soon as possible. Please let us know if you have any other requirements. Best regards, IDC Travel Team.

I still wonder if I can do Thailand and Vietnam in two weeks. Both countries are beautiful with so many things to do. I’m planning a trip to Southeast Asia in early January 2024 with my family, 5 people. We all prefer Vietnam as the first destination. If possible, I want to come across Thailand (but not compulsory). We can also extend the duration into three weeks in Vietnam and Thailand, will try our best to arrange the working schedule. Can you please update me on a tour program? Please not that we are a family of 5 and my youngest child is 4.

Hi Urszula, As our suggested itineraries, you can still visit Thailand and Vietnam in two weeks. If you prefer Vietnam to Thailand, you can consider the 1st and 3rd itineraries, in which you spend 10 days in Vietnam and 4 days in Thailand. However, it will be much better if you can extend your duration to 3 weeks. This way, you can discover these two countries in a more relaxing way and reduce the fatigue of rush commuting. Also, our travel expert will get back to you soon with customized 2-week and 3-week itineraries for your family. Thank you so much for your patience! Best regards, Alice Pham.

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Vietnam Vs Thailand: A Comprehensive Guide To Your Ideal Destination

Explore the vibrant cultures, diverse landscapes, and thrilling adventures as we delve into the vietnam vs thailand debate..

By: Esha Dasgupta Published: Jan 01, 2024 04:00 PM UTC

Vietnam and Thailand, both popular gems in Southeast Asia, may appear similar at first glance, but they offer distinctive attractions and a variety of cultural experiences. The choice between the two destinations hinges on personal preferences and specific travel goals. Join us as we uncover the diverse offerings that make each country unique.

Natural attractions – Vietnam vs Thailand

Both Vietnam and Thailand boast a multitude of natural attractions and diverse landscapes, from beaches to hills, rivers to dense forests. Let’s take a look at the natural attractions of both countries.

Vietnam: Mesmerising beauty characterises Vietnam, with highlights such as the iconic Ha Long Bay, the sandy dunes of Mui Ne , the Tonkinese Alps, and the terraced rice fields of Sapa. Pristine lakes, meandering streams, and fascinating cave systems add to the natural allure.

Thailand: Thailand is home to the magnificent Phang Nga Bay Marine National Park, spread over 400 sq km and featuring 42 islets and islands. This park is home to diverse marine and wildlife, as well as limestone karsts emerging from the water. Erawan Falls, Thi Lo Su Waterfall, Tham Lot cave system, and the stunningly beautiful Phi Phi Islands are some of the most popular natural attractions.

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Best time to visit – Vietnam vs Thailand

Diverse weather conditions impact different regions of both Thailand and Vietnam simultaneously, requiring consideration of regional variations and personal preferences.

Vietnam: North Vietnam, comprising Hanoi and Ha Long Bay, is best visited from October to November and March to April. Central Vietnam, including Hue and Hoi An, is ideal from January to July, while Southern Vietnam, encompassing Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is preferable from December to April.

Thailand: Destinations such as Bangkok and Chiang Mai , along with other northern and central regions, are best visited from November to February. Koh Samui is best visited from June to October, avoiding the heavy monsoon spell. Beach destinations like Phuket, Pattaya, and Krabi are most enjoyable from March to May.

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Best places to visit in Thailand & Vietnam

While Thailand and Vietnam share similarities, they each boast unique attractions, from magnificent temples and bustling night markets to white sand beaches and historic sites.

Vietnam: Da Nang, a popular destination in Vietnam, is home to the striking Marble Mountains and serene beaches. The historic city of Hue features royal tombs, lavish pagodas, and the Imperial City. Hanoi offers a beautiful blend of modern culture and ancient history through the Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Thailand: Koh Chang Island with its white sand beaches, Koh Samui with its palm-fringed beaches and lush rainforests, and Bangkok with its ornate temples, vibrant nightlife, and street markets are must-visit places in Thailand.

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Things to do – Thailand vs Vietnam

Both Thailand and Vietnam offer a plethora of activities, from exciting water sports such as snorkelling and diving to invigorating treks through waterfalls and meadows full of wildflowers. There are cave systems and islands to explore and cruises to go on. Enjoying cultural attractions and visiting markets in bustling urban cities are also some of the best things to do in Vietnam and Thailand.

Vietnam: Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground tunnels, near Ho Chi Minh City. Cruise the Mekong Delta, embark on a mountainous trek in Sapa, explore the charming markets of Hoi An, and indulge in delicious flavours of local cuisine, like Banh Mi and Pho. Adventure enthusiasts should discover the vibrant coral reefs of Phu Quoc Island.

Thailand: Island hopping is a must in Thailand, with over 300 islands offering a diverse range of experiences. Explore the vibrant night markets of Bangkok, dance the night away at the famous full moon parties in Phuket, scuba dive in Similan Island, witness the excitement of a Muay Thai fight, and indulge in tantalising flavours of Thai street food.

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Shopping guide – Vietnam vs Thailand

Vietnam and Thailand are havens for shopaholics, offering a mix of big brands and local treasures.

Vietnam: In Hanoi , explore the night markets for the latest in fashion. Dong Xuan indoor market offers a diverse range of products, from clothes to seafood. In Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is perfect for picking up unique food items, whereas the Cholon Chinatown market is ideal for homemade spices and sauces. Han Market in Da Nang and the Dinh Cau Night Market in Phu Quoc Island are ideal for picking up souvenirs.

Thailand: Bangkok is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from clothes and accessories to spices and metal figurines. Explore the diverse offerings at Rot Fai Market, Central Market, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and Asiatique Riverfront Market in Bangkok. Phuket’s weekend market is a charming spot for browsing through adorable souvenirs. In Krabi, the Walking Street Market and Maharaj Market are perfect for daily essentials and unique finds.

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Best hotels in vietnam & thailand.

Vietnam and Thailand boast an array of exceptional accommodations, catering to diverse preferences, from luxury hotel chains and charming boutique hotels to backpacker dorms, resorts and spas.

Vietnam: In Hanoi, the best hotels include the Lotte Hotel, Dolce by Wyndham Hanoi Golden Lake, and the Hanoi Grand Plaza Hotel. Ho Chi Minh City is home to hotels like Sofitel Saigon Plaza, Equatorial, and An Lam Retreats. The Hilton, Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, and Wyndham Danang Golden Bay are some of the best hotels in Da Nang.

Thailand: In Bangkok, Centara Grand at Central Plaza, Shangri-La, and Intercontinental Sukhumvit are the best hotels. The Na Nirand Resort, Buri Sriping Riverside Resort & Spa, and Thantara Resort are among the best hotels in Chiang Mai. Pattaya is home to some great hotels such as The Hilton, Royal Cliff Grand Hotel, and Mytt Hotel.

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Best restaurants & food to try in Thailand and Vietnam

Explore the diverse culinary landscapes of Vietnam and Thailand, where each bite unveils a unique journey into culture and tradition.

Vietnam: Vietnamese cuisine contains a lot of seafood, fresh herbs, fish sauce, vegetables, and a lighter use of cooking oil. Some of the most popular Vietnamese fare include Pho, Bun Cha, Banh Mi, Cao Lu, and Banh Cuon pancakes.

Some of the best restaurants in Vietnam include L’essence De Cuisine, Khuê Restaurant, and Lighthouse Sky Bar & Restaurant in Hanoi. Michelin-starred The Monkey Gallery and Cloud Nine Restaurant are some of the best eateries in Ho Chi Minh City, whereas in Da Nang, some of the best restaurants include Ca Chuon Co Seafood Restaurant and Thìa Gỗ Restaurant.

Thailand: Thai cuisine is well known for its aromatic and bold flavours, which create a harmonious balance of spicy, sweet, sour, and pungent. Dishes such as Pad Thai, green curry, spicy green papaya and crab salad, red curry, and Tom Yum Goong are some of the most famous and must-have dishes of Thailand.

Some of the most authentic and delectable fare can be found at the street food stalls. On the other hand, some of the best restaurants in Thailand include Vertigo and 80/20 in Bangkok, Parc Thai Eatery and Bodhi Terrace are great restaurants to try local fare in Chiang Mai, whereas Edge and Big Fish are some of the best hotels in Pattaya.

(Image credit: Sven Hansche/Shutterstock)

Related:  All About Kiss Bridge Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s Latest Romantic Destination

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-Vietnam or Thailand, which destination is more family-friendly? Both Vietnam and Thailand are family-friendly destinations.

-Vietnam or Thailand, which destination is good for a honeymoon? Thailand, with its beaches and tropical climate, is ideal for a honeymoon.

-Is it possible to visit both Vietnam and Thailand in a single trip? Yes, it’s possible to visit both Vietnam and Thailand in a single trip lasting at least 10-15 days.

-Can I find adventure activities in both Vietnam and Thailand? Both countries offer a plethora of adventure activities, including water sports.

-Vietnam or Thailand – which destination is more suitable for a cultural experience? Both Vietnam and Thailand provide remarkable cultural experiences given their rich heritage.

-How does the climate differ between Vietnam and Thailand? Different regions in both countries experience varied weather. For example, North Vietnam has pleasant temperatures from March to April, while Thailand sees rising temperatures.

• southeast asia travel

Esha Dasgupta

Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.

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The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

Khoa Nguyen/Getty Images

Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks. 

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary. 

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

• High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April 
• Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December 
• Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season. 

Bang The Tran/Getty Images

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south. 

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss. 

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy. 

Meet the Expert

• Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
• Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz. 

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities. 

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April. 

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with. 

Wand_Prapan/Getty Images

A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train. 

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens. 

Nikada/Getty Images

Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators). 

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. 

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season. 

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns. 

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts. 

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10. 

Vietnam and Thailand: Ultimate Guide for First Time Travelers

If you want to travel to some countries in Southeastern Asia and hesitate between Vietnam and Thailand, why don’t you combine these countries into a trip? As a prestigious tourism service provider, BestPrice.com will give you much information about these attractive destinations to help you make a decision more easily. Let’s start.

• When to visit Thailand and Vietnam? 

2. Chiang Mai

5. halong bay, 7. mekong delta, suggested thailand, vietnam itinerary for first-time visitors .

Southeastern Asia is a wide area having many advantageous natural conditions about climate and terrain. Thanks to that, most countries in this area have beautiful landscapes and colorful cultures, which are very meaningful in tourism. It’s hard to point out which country is the most attractive destination. But to find famous countries for tourism, you can’t skip the two remarkable ones: Vietnam and Thailand . Having many similarities in nature, these 2 countries will give you a chance to explore marvelous landscapes from mountains to beaches. You will also be deeply impressed by their cuisine and traditional culture. Each one has its beauty, but both are very passionate and appealing. Thus, it’s impossible to figure out which one is the better choice for your next trip.

An overview of Vietnam and Thailand 

Vietnam and Thailand may be the 2 names that are familiar to you. But in fact, how do you know about them? Let’s take an overview of these countries. 

Thanks to many advantages such as beautiful landscapes and special Buddhist culture, tourism is very thriving in Thailand. Utilizing these advantages, the government of this country launches many policies creating suitable conditions to develop this industry. Thailand is also known as the tourism center of Asia; it plays a vital role in the economy.

You can find all types of tourism in Thailand, even sex tourism, which you can’t find in Vietnam. Moreover, Thailand is also the country of festivals, giving you a chance to explore its special religious culture.

Because of the many bad impacts of war, Vietnam has just rehabilitated and developed the economy for 35 years. But the development is very rapid in many fields, including tourism. Vietnam is fortunate when the Motherland gives this country a lot of beautiful spots. From the North to the South, you can easily find a famous attraction for tourism with beautiful landscapes and colorful traditional culture. There are many historical sites as well.

Vietnamese is also famous for friendliness and hospitality, while the cuisine is wonderful. This country is one of the happiest countries globally (the 5th in the world) with peace and love. 

When to visit Thailand and Vietnam?  

The time to visit Thailand and Vietnam mainly depends on your schedule for tourism. It means that you can visit these countries almost whenever you want. But if you want to find the best time for visiting them, we have some recommendations for you.

The weather in Thailand can be divided into 3 seasons: the rainy season (June to October), hot season (March to May), and cool season (November to July), with the distinct variation in the North and unclear one in the South. 

Vietnam Weather has a monsoon tropical climate with 2 distinct seasons, including the rainy season (April to October) and dry season (November to March). The rainy season is also the hot season in Vietnam. The temperature reaches the peak in June and July. It’s very hot this time, especially in the North and the Central. They’re also places having the lowest temperature in the cold season, commonly from December to February. The other months have great weather, including November (autumn) and March (spring).

Thus, it’s no doubt that the best time to visit Vietnam and Thailand is between November to March next year.

Top-recommended Thailand, Vietnam places to visit 

Thailand and Vietnam are beautiful countries with a lot of marvelous landscapes and impressive cultures. Obviously, we can’t explore the whole of them. So, where should we visit when we travel to these countries in several days? Top-recommended Thailand, Vietnam places to visit can be the answer. 

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. Not just the center of administration and politics, this city is also a paradise for shopping. You can see many imposing buildings here, at the same time many special religious architectures. 

Most tourists choose Bangkok as the first place to visit in Thailand, making this city very crowded and attractive to explore the daily life of Thai. 

Chiang Mai is a peaceful city in the distance of 800 kilometers to the North of Bangkok's capital. It’s very famous for religious architecture with more than 300 pagodas and temples such as Doi Suthep pagoda, Wat Suan Dok temple, Wat Chiang Man pagoda. 

Being one of the most attractive destinations in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has many hotels, restaurants, and markets with abundant goods, convenient for tourists to stay, visit and buy souvenirs. Moreover, there are many classes teaching tourists Thai cuisine, Thai massage, kung fu, dhyana, etc. here, giving tourists many choices for their trip. 

Phuket island is very famous for tourism. This island is also known as the paradise of resting in Thailand, with many clear beaches. Phuket is now exploited to develop just tourism, so the service here is very professional. You can find many types of resorts and hotels on this island up to your demands and budgets. Food in Phuket is fresh and delicious at reasonable prices. This beautiful island also impresses tourists with many architectures featuring Chinese culture.

Hanoi has been the capital of Vietnam for over 1000 years, passing many generations or many dynasties in feudalism with many many names for each period. Until now, Hanoi is still the center of politics, culture, and more. It’s also the second biggest city in this country. 

Traveling to Hanoi, you will have a chance to visit many historical sites such as Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam, Tran Quoc pagoda,  Thang Long Imperial Citadel or Old Quarters and beautiful lakes such as Guom lake, Tay lake, etc. Then you will know more about special traditional culture, history, and pride of Vietnamese.

Halong Bay is a part of the Northeastern sea in Vietnam. Being recognized by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage twice, once for aesthetic value, once for outstanding global value in geology-geomorphology, at the same time being one of the most beautiful bays in the world, Halong Bay is a must-to-go attraction in Vietnam.

You have to be surprised with the beauty which can be beyond the common imagination of this heritage. It’s tough to describe in some words. There are many choices for tourists to entertain here, such as snorkeling, kayak, boating, fishing, water skiing, surfing, or studying about the natural conditions of this bay, etc. Come and visit this attraction, and it won’t let you down.

Unlike the wide marvelous nature with the sea and islands of Halong Bay, Hoi An is a peaceful old town in the Central of Vietnam. When visiting this town, you will be impressed by the classic beauty with small houses in rows covered with yellow painting and a river slightly flowing through. At night, the locals will turn on the decorative multi-colored lanterns, the whole town looks glistening. It’s actually very amazing.

Besides visiting the main area of the old town, you can also try interesting ecotourism here with a coconut forest on the Hoai river called Bay Mau.

Mekong Delta is an attractive destination for tourism in the South of Vietnam. It’s a wide region including many provinces with similarities in terrains and weather. It’s hardly cold in winter here, making it very comfortable to choose a time to visit. 

Thanks to many rivers flowing through this delta (the Mekong river's main one), the ecosystem here is very diversified. Thus, the main type of tourism in the Mekong Delta is ecotourism, with engined boats transferring thousands of tourists every day. People live in harmony with nature, making their personalities very generous. There are many traditional villages along rivers, utilizing the main crops to produce delicious specialties to buy for souvenirs. 

Mekong Delta

By asking 3 questions about where to go, how to go, and which directions for transferring, you will have more clues to have your own itinerary. And here is a suggested Thailand, Vietnam itinerary for first-time visitors from BestPrice team.

Where to go

If Thailand and Vietnam are on your plan for the next trip, but you still don’t have any idea about places to visit in these countries, you definitely can choose the top-recommended places above to travel for the first time. It’s obviously a long journey, but you deserve an amazing trip after a long time of hard work. 

In this case, we suggest 3 remarkable places for Thailand and 4 ones for Vietnam. They are the most famous attractions for tourism and are located in the North, the Central, and the South in each country. Thereby, you will have a close overview of each one with direct and lively experiences about the landscapes, culture, food, locals, etc. 

About means of transportation, to transfer coach to coach in a country, the most convenient and fastest way is just by airplane. Although it costs more, we have many ways to have the same flights with lower prices, thanks to online booking and promotions.

At each place to visit, it may require certain vehicles to visit around. A rental coach is a good choice for tourist groups to gather, depart, etc., together, especially when you need to follow an itinerary. 

Which directions for transferring 

Because all the places to visit are chosen along with the countries, respectively North-Central-South order, we suggest that you transfer from the South to the North and the opposite. 

• If you start from Vietnam to Thailand, think about this itinerary: Mekong Delta -> Hoi An -> Halong Bay -> Hanoi -> Bangkok -> Chiang Mai -> Phuket -> Tan Son Nhat airport (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam).
• If you start from Thailand to Vietnam, think about this itinerary: Bangkok -> Chiang Mai -> Phuket -> Tan Son Nhat airport (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) -> Mekong Delta -> Hoi An -> Halong Bay -> Hanoi. 

Vietnam - Thailand is a long trip and will give you a lot of interesting experiences to relax, entertain, and broaden your knowledge about the countries and local people you meet during the journey. If this is your first time, you’d better choose a prestigious travel agency to book your first Vietnam, Thailand Tour . Here are the reasons:

• Travel agencies know clearly about your desired destinations, including the most attractive places to visit, delicious local food, and where to eat, stay and entertain. They also can introduce and explain special features you can find in new places. 
• Travel agencies can assure your safety, save you from being lost when traveling or being ripped off. 

Pay a cost to book your tour, and all you need is to enjoy your trip comfortably. It’s also the choice of most tourists wanting to visit Vietnam and Thailand. With international branches in Vietnam and Thailand, BestPrice Travel believes that we are one of the best travel agencies that can supply you with great tours to explore these beautiful countries. 

Vietnam and Thailand are actually two of the most attractive destinations for tourism in Asia. Visiting these beautiful countries to explore marvelous landscapes and colorful traditional cultures is ideal for relaxing and gaining many exciting experiences after a long hard-working time. With much information, this article helps you know more about traveling in these countries with several outstanding places for tourism in each one and directions about itinerary and travel tours. BestPrice team hopes that you will have a great trip to your desired destinations. Thanks for your reading!

BestPrice Travel

Image source: Internet

Questions & Answers (1)

My family and I are Vietnamese and we want to travel to thailand with a private tour guide. We want to know more about real estate investment. therefore, we want to find a Vietnamese tour guide in Thailand.

Sorry we dont have Vietnamese guide in Thailand

Thailand vs Vietnam: Making the Right Choice (Pros & Cons)

If you are looking for a Southeast Asia destination for your next trip, you won't be disappointed by either Thailand or Vietnam. Both are beautiful destinations with rich histories, lots to see and do, and welcoming and friendly people. Plus don't forget the amazing food!

But if you have to choose, Vietnam vs Thailand, which one is best?

For me, both Vietnam and Thailand are must-visit Southeast Asian countries and I have been to both multiple times. Which one you choose to visit depends entirely on what you're looking for.

Overall, I would say choose Thailand for beautiful beaches, epic nightlife, and a happy and relaxing time. Choose Vietnam if you want to get off the beaten track more and dive into a fascinating history and have a real adventure.

But don't take my word for it. I have put together a comprehensive guide on Vietnam vs Thailand comparison, looking at the best things to see and do, food, nightlife, safety, and more. Read on to choose your next Southeast Asia destination.

Thailand vs Vietnam: Overall

Thailand has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia thanks to its gorgeous white sand beaches in the south, bustling cities and markets selling traditional souvenirs and amazing street food, fascinating temples, and famously friendly Thai people with their incredible service culture. Thailand is called the “Land of Smiles” for a reason.

Thailand's most popular destinations, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui, are unmissable. But they can feel a little overrun by tourists, especially in high season. You can certainly still find non-touristy spots when you visit Thailand, but you have to work for it! Thailand offers fantastic infrastructure and is a lot more accessibly and easy than other Southeast Asian countries.

Vietnam feels significantly less touristy, so it can feel like a more authentic cultural and historical Southeast Asia experience. Plus there are still hidden gems to discover, which you haven't seen photographed a million times.

Vietnam doesn't have the same beach and relaxation options, but there are fascinating natural and cultural attractions to visit including Halong Bay, the Mekong Delta, Ha Giang Loop, and Phong Nha cave system. Vietnam is also a little bit more affordable than Thailand.

1. Thailand vs Vietnam: Visa and Entry Requirements

Both Thailand and Vietnam are open to travelers on a short visit.

Many nationalities can travel to Thailand under the visa exemption scheme for up to 30 days.

For people who want to stay longer, it used to be that you could do infinite border runs. I did multiple over the years with simple day tripsBut they have tightened this and you can only do this twice per calendar year. Thailand has introduced a Long-Term Resident Visa that is open to digital nomads, but it has a high minimum income threshold (USD 80,000 per year in most cases).

For Vietnam, it is also a simple process for most people to apply for a tourist visa online , and you can stay for up to 90 days. It is much easier to do border runs to renew your visa, but there is always the risk you won't be allowed to return.

Overall, it is easy to get a tourist visa for either country, but things can get complicated if you want to stay longer. Thailand offer probably more official options to make this happen.

2. Thailand vs Vietnam: Culture, History and Things To See

Thailand is known for its colorful Buddhist temples, golden royal palaces, and vibrant traditional festivals, such as the Songkran New Year Festival and the Loy Krathong Festival of Lights.

It feels like life in Thailand very much happens on the streets, and you never need to walk far to find a market, a performance, or something else fun. There are also interesting experiences to be tried such as watching a Muay Thai match or getting a strong Thai massage.

For a taste of what Thai culture and history have the offer, consider the following top attractions.

The Grand Palace, Bangkok : The official residence of the Kings of Siam since 1782, this is a masterpiece of Thai architecture with an impressive mix of traditional Thai styles. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) within the palace grounds houses a revered Buddha statue carved from a single block of jade.

Sukhothai Historical Park : This UNESCO World Heritage site is a marvel of ancient Thai civilization. It encompasses 21 historical sites with majestic ruins of temples, palaces, and large Buddha statues.

Phi Phi Islands : Renowned for breathtaking turquoise waters and iconic limestone cliffs, the Phi Phi Islands form an idyllic tropical paradise in the Andaman Sea.

Amphawa Floating Market : Located near Bangkok, this vibrant market offers a quintessential Thai experience. Eat Thai food, buy local handicrafts, and observe daily life along the canals.

Wat Plai Laem : Situated on Samui Island, this temple is a blend of Thai and Chinese spiritual traditions. It is renowned for its two giant statues – the 18-arm image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, and a large, smiling Buddha.

Ancient Capital of Ayutthaya : A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating array of temple ruins and relics, this was once the Siamese capital. Founded in 1350, its architecture and art combine influences from both the East and the West.

Khmer Temples, Northern Thailand : These ancient temples, including the well-known Phanom Rung, Muang Tum, and Phimai, represent the architectural ingenuity of the Khmer Empire and both Buddhist and Hindu influences.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai : Perched on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, this temple is one of the most sacred in Northern Thailand. It is renowned for its gold-plated chedi, stunning murals, and panoramic views of the city.

Meanwhile, Vietnam is known for its traditional culture with evident Chinese, French, and American influences, reflecting the country's complex history. Wherever you go you can see colonial architecture and ancient citadels, plus the scars of the Vietnam War, known there as the American War.

Just like in Thailand, there are many fascinating temples, but they reflect a mixture of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism. You can also visit many museums and enjoy some unique cultural experiences such as water puppetry and floating markets.

For an idea of what Vietnam's culture and history have the offer, consider the following top attractions.

Ha Long Bay : Internationally renowned, this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam boasts emerald waters adorned with thousands of towering limestone karsts, forming a captivating and otherworldly panorama.

Imperial City of Hue : This vast complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty. It includes the Forbidden Purple City and numerous pagodas, temples, and royal tombs.

My Son Sanctuary : This ancient Hindu temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects the Champa civilization's cultural and religious influences. The sanctuary houses intricate carvings and bas-reliefs.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hanoi : This mausoleum is the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam's revolutionary leader. The site is an important cultural and historical landmark, reflecting the reverence of the Vietnamese people for their national hero.

Thang Long Royal Citadel, Hanoi : A symbol of Hanoi's history, this site has served as Vietnam's political hub for over a thousand years. The citadel houses historical relics, ancient palaces, and artifacts from various Vietnamese dynasties.

Hoi An : This charming ancient town in Vietnam, beckons with its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage, offering a timeless and enchanting experience for visitors.

Cu Chi Tunnels : A historical marvel in Vietnam, showcase an intricate underground network built by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, serving as a testament to their resourcefulness and resilience.

Phu Quoc : If you're looking for a tropical paradise in Vietnam, Phu Quoc has pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes, making it a sought-after destination for relaxation and natural beauty.

Which country has better cultural attractions and things to see? I would have to call it a tie.

In both Vietnam and Thailand, you will stumble across stunning temples and fascinating historical sites just walking the streets.

But there is also much more to discover beyond the main attractions if you put in the work and do your research, you'll find plenty of hidden gems.

Find my list of the 16 most unique places to visit in Vietnam here .

3. Thailand vs Vietnam: Natural Beauty and Landscapes

Thailand is best known for its long coastline and numerous Thai islands offering a range of pristine beaches.

The clear waters and impressive marine life make it a scuba diver's dream. But if you turn inland, you can also find lush jungles with unique hikes to stunning waterfalls.

I loved island hopping and therefore Thailand is the perfect pick. These are among the most naturally beautiful locations in Thailand:

Similan Islands : The Similan Islands are a diver's paradise, known forits rich underwater biodiversity, including vibrant coral reefs and a multitude of marine species. The unspoiled, white sandy beaches offer a perfect retreat for relaxation and sunbathing. You can find my comprehensiveguide to Thailand's best islands here .

Khao Sok National Park : This national park features the world's oldest evergreen rainforest, offering a unique ecosystem with towering limestone karsts and a large man-made lake. Spot rare species like the Malayan tapir, Asian elephants, and various exotic birds, and stay overnight in floating bungalows. It's pretty unique!

Erawan Falls : Located in Kanchanaburi, Erawan Falls is famous for its seven distinct tiers, each with its own natural pools and scenic vistas. The falls are set within a lush forest, providing a refreshing escape from the heat.

Phi Phi Islands : You've likely hear about these islands before. They were one of my first destination in South Thailand. These iconic islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs rising from the sea, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life. The Phi Phi Islands offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

Doi Inthanon National Park : As the location of Thailand's highest mountain, Doi Inthanon National Park is a biodiversity hotspot with various habitats, from dense forests to alpine meadows. The park is renowned for its birdwatching, with over 300 species recorded. It also features beautiful waterfalls, nature trails, and cultural sites like the King and Queen Pagodas. I explored Doi Inthanon as a day trip from Chiang Mai and absolutely loved it and recommend it to anyone.

Vietnam is not entirely considered a beach destination, though there are a few good ones to visit.

Instead, you can enjoy lush and picturesque green rice terraces, hike across epic mountain ranges, and kayak bays with stunning rock formations.

Some of the must-see places of natural beauty in Vietnam are:

Halong Bay : This UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Vietnam is famous for its thousands of limestone karsts and isles. Halong Bay has calm, emerald waters, perfect for cruises and kayaking.

Sa Pa : Nestled in the misty mountains of North Vietnam, Sa Pa entices with its vibrant hill tribe cultures, terraced rice fields, and breathtaking landscapes, offering a unique and picturesque escape.

Ba Be National Park : Located in Bac Kan Province, this park is noted for its lush forests, deep valleys, and the expansive Ba Be Lake. The park is also culturally rich, and home to several ethnic minority communities.

Ban Gioc Waterfall : Situated on the Quay Son River, this breathtaking waterfall is one of the largest border waterfalls in the world. It offers spectacular views, especially during the rainy season when the falls are at their fullest.

Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park : Known for its karst landscapes and extensive cave systems in Central Vietnam, including the world-renowned Son Doong Cave. The park features underground rivers, towering limestone cliffs, and dense forests.

Sao Beach : Located on Phu Quoc Island, Sao Beach is famous for its soft, white sandy shores and clear, turquoise waters. It's an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.

So which country is more naturally beautiful? For me, Thailand wins because I love beaches, but it also has forests, waterfalls, and rice paddies.

Vietnam is beautiful, but just doesn't complete when it comes to beaches and islands.

4. Thailand vs Vietnam: Best Cities

Both Thailand and Vietnam are big countries, and while you will want to see everything, choices need to be made. So what are the best cities to spend time in when visiting each country?

For Thailand, you have to visit Bangkok to truly understand the country and its people, while Chiang Mai in the heart of Northern Thailand is my personal favorite city for its markets, temples and cafe culture in the Old City and natural beauty.

For beaches, popular options include Phuket, Krabi, and my favorites in the Gulf of Thailand are Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

Bangkok : Thailand's bustling capital, Bangkok, is a dynamic mix of the modern and traditional. From towering skyscrapers and bustling markets to ancient temples like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace, the city is a hub of activity. The famous Chao Phraya River bisects the city, offering picturesque ferry rides. Bangkok is also renowned for its vibrant street food, luxurious shopping malls, and lively nightlife, including the iconic Khao San Road.

Chiang Mai : Known as the cultural heart of Thailand, Chiang Mai is surrounded by mountains and lush countryside. It's famous for its historic temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals and has a bustling night bazaar every night. My favorite market however is the Sunday Walking Street, if you're there on a weekend, this one cannot be missed! Chiang Mai also serves as a gateway to northern Thailand's natural landscapes.

Phuket : Thailand's largest island, Phuket, is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Patong Beach is well-known for its lively bars and nightclubs. More quieter areas to consider are Kamala Beach, Kata Beach and Karon, a long beach near the Big Buddha. The island is also a gateway to the picturesque Phi Phi Islands and offers a range of water activities like snorkeling, sailing, and diving.

Krabi : A coastal province, Krabi is known for its stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters, and beautiful beaches like Ao Nang and Railay. It's a popular destination for rock climbing, snorkeling, and exploring nearby islands such as the Koh Phi Phi archipelago.

Koh Samui : A tropical island paradise, Koh Samui is known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and dense rainforests. It offers luxurious resorts, posh spas, and a vibrant nightlife around Chaweng. The island is also home to the famous Big Buddha statue. You can get a ferry from here to Koh Phangan for the Full Moon Party.

In Vietnam, the biggest cities are Hanoi, the current capital, and Ho Chi Minh City, the former capital.

The historic cities of Hoi An and Hue are also popular, as is the coastal city of Da Nang.

Hanoi : Vietnam's capital blends old-world charm with modern dynamics. It's famous for its centuries-old architecture and a rich culture with Southeast Asian, Chinese, and French influences. Key attractions include the Old Quarter, the Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Ho Chi Minh City : Formerly known as Saigon, this city is the commercial hub of Vietnam. It features French colonial landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the 19th-century Central Post Office. The city is also known for its role in the Vietnam War, with sites like the War Remnants Museum. The bustling Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit for travelers. The city is also a gateway to the Mekong Delta.

Hoi An : A well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, Hoi An is known for its beautiful old town, lantern-lit streets at night, and vibrant tailor shops.

Hue : This ancient city was the national capital until 1945. Known for its historic monuments, Hue is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 19th-century Citadel, containing the Imperial City, and the Thien Mu Pagoda are key highlights.

Da Nang : A coastal city known for its sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port. Da Nang is a popular base for visiting the inland Ba Na hills to the west of the city. The city is also famous for the Marble Mountains and the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

Which country has the best cities? For me, it is impossible to choose.

I probably love Bangkok and Chiang Mai just a little bit more than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but Vietnam's smaller historical cities are more dynamic than Thailand's beach cities, which all tend to be quite similar.

5. Thailand vs Vietnam: Culinary Experiences

Despite their geographic proximity, Thailand and Vietnam have quite different culinary experiences.

Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors. You haven't eaten true Pad Thai and Green Curry unless you've eaten it in Thailand. Thai food and street vendors go hand in hand. The grilled meats and mango sticky rice sold by street food vendors are delicious everywhere you go.

Vietnamese cuisine is characterized by fresh ingredients and clean flavors. Some of my favorite Vietnamese foods include Pho (rice noodle soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), Bun Cha (grilled pork and noodles), and Banh Xeo (crispy pancakes).

There is certainly a street food culture as well as a coffee culture, which suits me as a coffee lover and also for when I want to work while traveling.

Overall, I personally prefer Thai food to Vietnamese food, but you're definitely not going hungry in either country.

6. Thailand vs Vietnam: Nightlife

The different nightlife atmosphere in each country is a reflection of Thai and Vietnamese food. Thailand is hot and spicy while Vietnam is wholesome and fulfilling.

The Thailand party scene has an infamous reputation, and it is well-deserved. There are lots of bars, nightclubs, and parties in the most popular places you go from Bangkok to Chiang Mai and the island, which are heavily dominated by international tourists. You can party all night and there is an “anything goes” attitude. It is great to see open attitudes towards LGBTQ+ travelers, however the obvious sex tourism can be a bit disconcerting.

The recent legalization of marijuana means that smoke shops are now a common sight.

The nightlife in Vietnam is more low-key and relaxed. You are more likely to go to drinks with friends and catch some live music than hit a superclub. People tend to like to get together at street bars in the evenings called Bia Hoi, where they drink locally brewed beer.

Personally, Vietnam is more my speed when it comes to a good night out, but many people love Thailand's nightlife.

7. Thailand vs Vietnam: Cost and Accommodation

Both Vietnam and Thailand are very affordable for most travelers, even when paying a premium for accommodation, eating out, and paying for activities and adventures. This is one of the reasons they are popular tourist destinations as you can do a lot even on a tighter budget.

Vietnam is a little bit cheaper than Thailand when it comes to your main expenses including accommodation, food, and transportation. If you wanted to stay in Vietnam on the cheap, for example spending less than USD 30 per day, it can totally be done.

Thailand is slightly more expensive, but still very affordable by international standards.

The difference with Thailand is that you tend to have more options in most places. Hire a luxury villa or stay in a hostel. Jump on a direct plane or get the overnight bus. You can do what suits you and your wallet.

8. Thailand vs Vietnam: Infrastructure & Getting Around

Both Thailand and Vietnam are easy to get to with international flights arriving into several major cities.

You probably have a few more options with Thailand just because Bangkok is a big air travel hub for Southeast Asia.

Once you reach both countries, it is pretty easy to get around. There are lots of internal flights between major cities and smaller towns provided by cheap local airlines. Look out for Air Asia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air in Thailand. In Vietnam, it is VietJet, Bamboo Airways, and Vietnam Airlines.

Thailand has a well-developed tourist industry so getting around is simple with a well-developed infrastructure. There are lots of trains, buses, and ferries. If you are traveling within Bangkok there is a great Metro and train system, and you can always grab a tuk-tuk or a taxi.

In Vietnam, while you have fewer options, you should still have no trouble getting where you need to go.

There is a good system of trains and overnight buses, and the brave and experienced can also hire motorcycles. In the city, get a taxi, Grab (which is like Uber), or a Cyclo, a bicycle taxi.

All in all, it is probably a little easier to get around Thailand than Vietnam because the paths are so well-threaded.

9. Thailand vs Vietnam: Safety

Both Thailand and Vietnam are very safe countries as long as you use common sense, as you should everywhere in the world. Of course, crimes of opportunity happen and you should look out for pickpockets, but violent crime is rare.

While the people in Thailand may be a little friendlier, there are more unusual social rules. For example, in Thailand, you should never insult the royal family or touch someone's head. There are fewer of these unpredictable social rules in Vietnam.

To be fair, the biggest safety threat in Thailand is other tourists. Heavy drinking, partying, and young people traveling in packs, you are more likely to have problems with other tourists than with locals.

So, Thailand might be a little more dangerous than Vietnam, but still very safe.

Frequently Asked Questions: Thailand vs Vietnam

📍 which is better to visit, vietnam or thailand.

When heading to Southeast Asia, whether it is better to Visit Thailand or Vietnam depends on what you are looking for. Thailand is very accessible, with a well-developed tourist industry. But that also means it can be more touristy. Nevertheless, it is incredible for beaches, temples, and social partying. Vietnam is slightly less traveled but still welcoming to tourists and is a delight for those who enjoy history and the greener side of nature.

❓ Why is Thailand more popular than Vietnam?

Thailand is often perceived as more popular than Vietnam due to its longer-standing tourism industry, well-developed infrastructure, and diverse attractions. The country's effective marketing campaigns, international recognition, and cultural familiarity have contributed to its broader appeal to global travelers. While Vietnam is gaining popularity, Thailand's early adoption of tourism and political stability have played roles in establishing its reputation as a leading tourist destination in Southeast Asia.

☀️ When should I go to Thailand and Vietnam?

For Thailand, the best time to visit is during the cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are more comfortable. In Vietnam, the period from November to April is generally favorable, avoiding the hot summer months and the rainy season, ensuring pleasant weather for exploring the country's diverse attractions. It's advisable to check specific regional weather patterns and events when planning your visit to both countries as the weather between mountain and beach regions may vary.

📅 How long should I spend in Thailand and Vietnam?

When you travel to Thailand or Vietnam, you are rarely going to want to stay in just one place, because the things to see and do are spread across the entire country. This means that you need to give yourself some time to move around. I would say that you want to spend at least two weeks in each country, and longer if you have the time.

Find my ultimate three week Thailand itinerary here .

🏝️ Which is better for beaches, Thailand or Vietnam?

Thailand has better beaches than Vietnam. It has a long coastline and many islands boasting gorgeous white sandy beaches. There are a lot of beach resort towns peppered across Thailand. Vietnam does have a few good beaches in the south, but you don't get the same variety and the diving is not as good.

🗣️ Can I get by speaking English in Thailand and Vietnam?

Yes, English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and businesses in both Thailand and Vietnam. However, in more rural or remote areas, you may encounter limited English proficiency, so learning a few basic phrases in the local languages can enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals. Plus it is surprising how far you can get when two people want to communicate with sign language and a few basic words.

Thailand vs Vietnam – Final Words

Which Southeast Asian country should be next on your travel itinerary? I don't know, that depends on you, but both Thailand and Vietnam should be contenders!

If you want my advice, head to Thailand if you want beaches and a chance to relax and socialize with other travelers. Head to Vietnam if you love adventure, want to get off the beaten track a little and you love green landscapes and fascinating history.

Wherever you choose to go, Southeast Asia is a fulfilling place to visit and I hope you'll love it as much as I do!

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

About the Author: Carolin Pilligrath

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Passing Thru Travel

Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

Southeast Asia, a region celebrated for its bustling cities, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Beyond the well-trodden paths of Bangkok’s grand palaces and Bali’s sun-kissed beaches lie lesser-known spots that offer an authentic and enriching experience. This guide uncovers ten hidden gems across Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond, promising unique adventures and memories that last a lifetime.

Koh Mak, Thailand

In Koh Mak, you’ll discover a tranquil haven distinct from the typical tourist destinations. As you explore this serene island in the Gulf of Thailand, the calmness of the environment becomes palpable. It’s a place where the beaches remain unspoiled, showcasing their natural beauty with crystal-clear waters inviting you for a swim or a snorkel.

The laid-back vibe of the island resonates through every corner, from the gentle sway of palm trees to the unhurried pace of life of the locals. You can unwind in true solitude, with the quiet hum of nature as your backdrop, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

Insider’s Tip: Explore the island’s rubber plantations and coconut groves on a rented bicycle.

When To Travel: November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant.

How To Get There: Take a boat from Trat, which is accessible by bus from Bangkok.

Mai Chau, Vietnam

Mai Chau is in the midst of a peaceful valley, a world away from the bustling city life. This area is famed for its stilt houses, an architectural style that speaks volumes about the local culture. As you wander through the village, you’ll notice the vibrant customs and traditions that are still very much a part of daily life here.

The rural charm of Vietnam comes alive in Mai Chau, offering you a chance to experience a different, more tranquil way of life. The simplicity and hospitality of the local people add to the authenticity of your experience, making your stay both enriching and memorable.

Insider’s Tip: Visit local villages to see traditional weaving and embroidery.

When To Travel: March to April or September to November for the best climate.

How To Get There: A scenic 3-hour drive from Hanoi.

Koh Bulon, Thailand

On Koh Bulon, a small island nestled in the Andaman Sea, you’ll find an ideal escape for a digital detox. Here, the absence of cars and the tranquility of its streets instantly sets a tone of peace and quiet. As you step onto the island, you’re greeted by a sense of calm permeating the air.

The simplicity of life without the usual bustle of traffic or the constant buzz of technology allows you to reconnect with nature and yourself. It’s a place where your days can be spent enjoying the serene environment, listening to the gentle waves, and embracing the slow pace of island life, making Koh Bulon the perfect setting for anyone looking to step away from the digital world and indulge in the tranquility of nature.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy snorkeling in the coral reefs surrounding the island.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the monsoon season.

How To Get There: Speedboat from Pak Bara Pier, reached by bus from Hat Yai.

Pu Luong, Vietnam

In Pu Luong, a nature reserve known for its spectacular landscapes, you’re treated to a feast of mountain vistas and terraced rice fields. This reserve stands out for its rich biodiversity, immersing you in an environment where nature’s beauty is on full display. As you trek through the reserve, the changing scenery — from lush greenery to traditional agricultural landscapes — provides a refreshing backdrop to your adventure.

The terraced fields, in particular, showcase an age-old farming practice that shapes the land into a stunning patchwork. This area is not just a treat for the eyes; it’s an opportunity to experience the tranquility of Vietnam’s rural heartland and to witness firsthand the harmony between humans and nature. Pu Luong’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a serene getaway.

Insider’s Tip: Trekking and homestays offer immersive experiences in local hill tribe cultures.

When To Travel: May to September for lush landscapes post-rainy season.

How To Get There: 4 hours by road from Hanoi.

Koh Kood, Thailand

You’ll encounter an unspoiled natural environment on Koh Kood, Thailand’s fourth-largest island. This island is renowned for its raw beauty, encompassing everything from majestic waterfalls to ancient rainforests and tranquil beaches. As you explore, the diverse landscape offers a variety of experiences.

You can trek through dense rainforests, feeling the ancient trees’ presence and the untouched nature’s richness, or relax on serene beaches, where the gentle lapping of waves against the shore provides a calming soundtrack to your relaxation. The island’s waterfalls, hidden among the foliage, offer a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Koh Kood is a destination where the simplicity and beauty of nature are at the forefront, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the more developed tourist areas.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Ao Salad fishing village for a glimpse into local life.

When To Travel: November to February for ideal beach weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Trat, which is connected by bus to Bangkok.

Ninh Binh, Vietnam

In Ninh Binh, often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” you’ll find yourself amidst a landscape of striking limestone karsts reminiscent of its famous maritime counterpart. As you travel through this region, the impressive formations rise dramatically from the earth, creating a unique and captivating scenery.

The area is not just about natural beauty; it’s also steeped in history, with ancient temples dotting the landscape, offering you a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural past. The serenity of the rivers flowing through Ninh Binh adds to the peaceful atmosphere, allowing for tranquil boat rides that weave through the karsts, giving you a close-up view of this geological wonder.

This combination of natural splendor and historical significance makes Ninh Binh a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty and a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture.

Insider’s Tip: Explore Trang An by boat to see its magnificent caves and temples.

When To Travel: March to May, when nature is at its most vibrant.

How To Get There: 2-hour train ride from Hanoi.

Koh Yao Noi, Thailand

Situated between the well-known destinations of Phuket and Krabi, Koh Yao Noi stands out as a peaceful haven with a distinctly rural charm. As you arrive on the island, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil atmosphere, starkly contrasting to the bustling tourist hotspots nearby. This island is ideal if you’re looking for a place to unwind and enjoy a slower pace of life.

The local community maintains a traditional way of living, providing a unique opportunity to experience authentic Thai culture. The scenic beauty of Koh Yao Noi, with its unspoiled beaches and lush greenery, adds to the island’s appeal, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection. Whether you’re lounging by the sea, exploring the rural landscapes, or interacting with friendly locals, Koh Yao Noi offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Insider’s Tip: Try the local seafood, freshly caught and deliciously prepared.

When To Travel: December to April for the best weather.

How To Get There: Ferry from Phuket or Krabi.

Ha Giang, Vietnam

In Ha Giang, a region known for its dramatic mountain passes and rich ethnic diversity, you’ll find an adventurer’s paradise and a cultural enthusiast’s dream. As you navigate the winding roads, each turn presents a new breathtaking view of steep hillsides and deep valleys, offering a thrilling experience for those who relish challenging drives or bike rides. This area is also a mosaic of diverse cultures, home to various ethnic groups with unique traditions and lifestyles.

Exploring Ha Giang, you can immerse yourself in these distinct cultures, gaining insights into the ways of life preserved for generations. Whether you’re trekking through remote villages, sampling local cuisines, or simply taking in stunning landscapes, Ha Giang offers a rich and authentic experience that connects you with nature and Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Insider’s Tip: Take the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass for stunning panoramic views.

When To Travel: October to April for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

How To Get There: A 6-hour bus journey from Hanoi.

Koh Lanta, Thailand

Koh Lanta, a destination that strikes a perfect balance with its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and a laid-back atmosphere, is an ideal getaway for families and couples. As you explore the island, you’ll find picturesque and peaceful beaches, providing ample opportunities for relaxation or playful beach activities. The island’s interior, covered in dense forests, invites you to explore its natural beauty through hikes or guided tours, where the sounds of wildlife and the rustle of leaves create an immersive experience.

The laid-back vibe of Koh Lanta is one of its most appealing aspects, allowing you to enjoy a holiday at your own pace, whether that means lounging on the beach, enjoying local cuisine, or engaging in water sports. The welcoming and family-friendly environment of the island ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors of all ages, making it a delightful choice for a memorable vacation.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the Lanta Animal Welfare center to learn about local wildlife conservation.

When To Travel: November to April, avoiding the rainy season.

How To Get There: Ferries from Krabi, Phuket, or Phi Phi Islands.

Con Dao Islands, Vietnam

In this archipelago, you’ll be introduced to a world of pristine beaches, a rich historical background, and abundant marine life, creating an ideal setting for eco-tourism. As you explore the islands, the untouched beaches offer a serene and natural beauty, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape or a chance to connect with nature.

The area’s history is palpable, with remnants of the past waiting to be discovered, offering you a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage. The marine life here is particularly vibrant. It provides excellent opportunities for snorkeling or diving, where you can witness a diverse range of sea creatures in their natural habitat.

This focus on preserving the natural and historical aspects makes this archipelago a prime destination for eco-tourists keen on experiencing the environment responsibly while enjoying the unique offerings of this remarkable destination.

Insider’s Tip: Dive or snorkel to explore the stunning coral reefs.

When To Travel: February to July for the best underwater visibility.

How To Get There: Take a flight from Ho Chi Minh City or a ferry from Vung Tau.

The Bottom Line

Each Southeast Asian destination has its unique charm, offering more than just beautiful scenery. They are gateways to understanding diverse cultures, histories, and the warmth of local hospitality. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a leisure traveler, these hidden gems promise an unforgettable journey into the heart of Southeast Asia.

The post Exploring 10 Lesser-Known Spots in Thailand, Vietnam, and Beyond – Hidden Gems of Southeast Asia 2024 republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Preto Perola.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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I've traveled to 9 out of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Here are the 5 biggest mistakes I made along the way.

• I've traveled solo to nine countries in Southeast Asia.
• I've made many mistakes, from traveling during monsoon season to forgetting to bring enough cash.
• Travelers should make sure they plan ahead and research each country's culture.

Over the last two years, my journey as a travel enthusiast and Business Insider's travel reporter in Singapore has brought me to almost every country in Southeast Asia.

In total, there are 10 countries in Southeast Asia , and I've traveled to nine of them — Singapore, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Myanmar remains the only country in the region I have not visited, and while I am keen to explore it, I have held off on visiting because of the country's ongoing civil war.

I've watched the sun rise in Angkor Wat in Cambodia and cared for elephants in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I've explored the Bornean jungle in Brunei and crawled the Cu Chi Tunnels in southern Vietnam.

But it hasn't always been easy. I've made several mistakes traveling across the region , especially as a solo traveler. Here are five mistakes I made and how to avoid them.

1. Going during monsoon season and not planning for the weather.

In July, I traveled to Thailand on a reporting trip to cover the budding cannabis industry . There, I was met with heavy rain nearly every day. In Bangkok, I was staying in a hostel in Chakkrawat , a district with narrow, meandering streets, which made it difficult to walk anywhere in the pouring rain.

I didn't plan for the weather, so I didn't have an umbrella or poncho with me and had to rush to get one at the last minute. I also had a packed itinerary with a lot of travel between meetings, which was a hassle in the constant downpour.

Before traveling to Southeast Asia, make sure to avoid two seasons — the monsoon season, which often comes with strong typhoons in countries like the Philippines, and the burning season, where farmers burn land for fertile soil. This is a common occurrence in countries like Laos, Thailand, and the island of Borneo, which is shared between Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

When I traveled to Laos in April last year during the burning season , most of my plans — including a hot air balloon ride — were canceled because of the thick smog. I also didn't have an N95 mask with me, and I ended up with a sore throat.

If you do plan to come during these seasons, make sure to pack accordingly and plan a flexible schedule.

2. Traveling during Ramadan and expecting the same practices everywhere.

Having grown up in Singapore, I'm familiar with the practices during Ramadan , the holy month for Muslims, where they fast for most of the day. I studied Malay for seven years, and in school, I often fasted with my Muslim classmates and ate only in private.

Still, in many cities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia , non-Muslims are free to dine in public, so long as they do so respectfully. But on my trip to Brunei in April — at the height of the burning season and in the middle of Ramadan — there were more practices I needed to observe.

Most restaurants were closed, and diners weren't allowed to eat there even if they were open — only take-out was allowed. Eating in public was a major faux pas even for non-Muslims, and if you want to drink some water, you can only do so when nobody is around.

It wasn't easy, especially as Brunei was sweltering at 100 degrees Fahrenheit on some days. I made do by returning to the hotel for lunch and grabbing a big dinner with the locals at the night market after they had broken their fast.

3. Not packing enough modest outfits when visiting temples and mosques.

Southeast Asia is pretty liberal, and you can wear whatever you want in many places. In popular destinations like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia, lots of tourists walk around in bikini tops and shorts, and locals mostly tolerate it.

But there are certain places you do need to cover up, like places of worship, which include temples and mosques. When I visited Angkor Wat — the famed temple complex in Cambodia — in February last year, I found some tourists being told off by the local tour guides for wearing shorts and tank tops — "Tomb Raider" style.

I've learned to err on the right side of caution and bring a sarong wherever I go. It's an easy way to cover up and make an outfit more modest when you need to.

4. Forgetting to pack medication, especially when I plan to eat street food.

Southeast Asia has some of the world's most flavorful food. In every country, you can find food that is cheap and delicious, and that includes Singapore , the world's most expensive city. In countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, street food dishes can cost as little as a dollar.

I eat mostly street food when I travel in Southeast Asia, so medicine for tummy-related illnesses is a must. I've only gotten sick twice from eating street food — and it was the same dish both times— and unfortunately, those were the few times I didn't have medicine with me.

I'm a pretty adventurous eater. I've eaten everything from pufferfish stew to frog porridge and dishes made with intestines off the street. I've learned to wash the utensils provided before digging in and make sure the food is cooked to order and heated up before being served.

5. Relying on my card and not bringing enough cash with me.

In Singapore, I don't really use cash and often use Apple Pay, mobile payments, and cards. But I've found that many stores in other countries in Southeast Asia only accept cash.

For example, on my third trip to Vietnam, I spent an hour trying to make payment via bank transfer after the staff at a luxury perfume shop — which was selling items priced upwards of $200 — informed me at the last minute that they didn't accept card or contactless payment.

I've also found the majority of street vendors in the region only accept mobile payment — which is limited to local banks — or cash. I've learned to change a considerable amount of money before leaving the airport and keep whatever I didn't use for my next trip.

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Schengen-like visa for southeast asia will boost foreign arrivals to vietnam: insiders.

In recent months Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been discussing the initiative with his counterparts in Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Vietnam,  Bloomberg  reported.

The joint visa would enable tourists to explore all six Southeast Asian countries on a single visa.

Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, CEO of Alma Resort Cam Ranh in Nha Trang, said that Vietnamese tourism and the hospitality industry would benefit greatly if the proposal was passed.

"This Schengen-type visa would help address concerns Vietnam is losing out on travelers because of relatively cumbersome visa requirements compared to Thailand and Malaysia," he said.

"Thailand continues to attract higher numbers of tourists than Vietnam, so this visa arrangement could help offset that trend by encouraging more tourists who may otherwise visit only Thailand to also visit Vietnam."

Vietnam currently waives visas for 25 countries compared to 162 by Malaysia and 64 by Thailand.

Herbert said Vietnam's big cities with direct flights between these neighboring countries would benefit the most because many people will fly, for example, from Bangkok to HCMC and from Kuala Lumpur to HCMC. 

Six Southeast Asian countries welcomed 70 million international visitors in 2023, of which Thailand and Malaysia accounted for more than 50%.

Pham Ha, CEO of luxury cruise operator Lux Group, said that if only 50% of international visitors to Thailand and Malaysia visit Vietnam, the tourism industry will see a "gold mine" that helps boost revenue growth.

Thailand’s selection of five neighboring countries for the joint visa scheme is "not by chance," Ha said.

The four countries that share land borders with Thailand are Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. Vietnam is located next to Laos and Cambodia. Tourists can easily visit 6 countries by road or train, an alternative to expensive air travel.

This also helps make tourists' trips more economical, increasing the competitiveness of the six ASEAN countries with major markets such as China, India, South Korea and Japan, Ha added.

Hebert said it’s a very clever move on Thailand’s behalf.

"The Thai authorities know that if the many tourists who have visited Thailand previously come back for a beach break, this visa will encourage them to experience the culture of nearby Vietnam, Laos and/or Cambodia and make the trip overall more interesting," he said.

Among the six countries, Thailand and Malaysia have more flight routes than Vietnam, which however has more flight routes than its two neighbors Laos and Cambodia.

Joining the alliance is an opportunity to help Vietnam become a "hub" in the Indochina region, said Hanoi-based AZA Travel CEO Nguyen Tien Dat, adding tourists who prefer Cambodia or Laos will fly to Vietnam, then to the other two countries.

Countries participating in the joint visa scheme may have difficulty managing and synchronizing the database with the remaining five countries. However, from the perspective of a tourism insider, Ha believed that Vietnam would enjoy more benefits if joining the alliance.

Currently, Vietnam tourism is facing fierce competition in the region. If Vietnam joins the scheme with the scheme, its competitiveness will be stronger.

Dat also analyzed that if Vietnam refuses to join while the remaining five countries agree, the Vietnamese tourism industry will face a new strong competitor - the alliance of the five countries.

"Competing with Thailand is difficult, having to compete with five countries at the same time will be even more tiring."

According to Hebert, this visa scheme would be a game-changer not only for Vietnam but for the Southeast Asian region.

Following Thailand’s proposal, leaders of the five Southeast Asian countries have expressed a positive attitude towards the joint visa initiative, according to Bloomberg .

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Vatican’s top diplomat begins a 6-day visit to Vietnam aimed at normalizing relations

FILE - Vatican Secretary of State Paul Richard Gallagher speaks during a press conference to present a document on the 5th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato si” (Praise Be) calling on the world to act to stop the human destruction of the planet, at the Vatican’s press room, on June 18, 2020. The Vatican’s top diplomat began a six-day visit to Vietnam on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to normalize relations between the two sides. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File)

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HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — The Vatican’s top diplomat began a six-day visit to Vietnam on Tuesday as a part of efforts to normalize relations with the communist nation.

Archbishop Paul Gallagher, the Holy See’s foreign minister, met his Vietnamese counterpart Bui Thanh Son and expressed the Vatican’s “gratitude” for the progress that has been made to improve ties. The visit took place after Archbishop Marek Zalewski became the first Vatican representative to live and open an office in the Southeast Asian country.

“The visit is of great importance,” said Son.

Gallagher will also meet Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and visit a children’s hospital in the capital, Hanoi, state-run Vietnam News Agency reported. He will hold Mass in Hanoi, in Hue in central Vietnam, and in the financial hub of Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

Gallagher is the No. 2 official in the Vatican’s Secretary of State, and his visit to Hanoi was an “important moment” that showed that the relationship was continuing while the sides wait for an upgrade to full diplomatic relations, said Giorgio Bernardelli, the head of AsiaNews, a Catholic Missionary news agency.

Relations between the Vatican and Vietnam were severed in 1975, after the Communist Party established its rule over the entire country following the end of the Vietnam War. Relations have been strained ever since, although the sides have had regular talks since at least the late 1990s.

The agreement to appoint the Vatican’s permanent representative in Vietnam was signed in July 2023, during former President Vo Van Thuong’s visit to the Holy See. Thuong also extended an invitation to Pope Francis to visit Vietnam. But Thuong has since resigned, becoming the latest victim of an intense anti-corruption campaign.

Bernardelli said that the pope’s potential visit was likely to be discussed, adding that it also depended on the political situation in Hanoi following the president’s resignation

He added that an improvement in ties with Vietnam could also have implications for the Holy See’s ties with communist-ruled China. The relationship with Vietnam had always been a “point of reference, but with important differences,” since unlike China, Vietnam has been keen to improve relations with the Vatican and the West.

Beijing severed diplomatic ties with the Vatican in 1951, after the communists rose to power and expelled foreign priests.

Catholicism is officially the most practiced religion in Vietnam, with 5.9 million or 44.6% of the 13.2 million people who identified as religious in a 2019 census saying they were Catholic. That works out to more than 6% of the country’s population.

Associated Press journalist Hau Dinh in Hanoi, Vietnam contributed to this report.

This story has been corrected to refer to the Vatican official as Archbishop Paul Gallagher

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• How to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam 2024: 10, 14 and 21-Day Itinerary Ideas

How to plan your trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam depends greatly on how much time you have to travel and the experiences you wish to have, but our examples can help you find the best ways to divide your time during your personalized trip.

Step into the vibrant culture of Bangkok, explore the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, and cruise through the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay. Whether seeking bustling markets, ancient temples, or serene beaches, you can discover the charm, beauty, and rich history of these three captivating countries.

A customizable tour with our travel specialists can help you organize your trip according to your timeline and preferences for your perfect Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam adventure.

10-Day Vacations to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

14-day vacations to thailand, cambodia, and vietnam, 21-day vacations to thailand, cambodia, and vietnam, how much does a thailand, cambodia, and vietnam trip cost.

• Best Times to Visit
• Which Country to Enter First

What Are the Visa Requirements?

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

While it's possible to visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam in 10 days, the timeframe is relatively short considering the diverse attractions and experiences each country offers. With an additional 2 days, you can enjoy a more leisurely journey, similar to our recommended 12-day trip .

Our careful planning for your 10 days ensures a well-paced trip that covers the essentials without feeling rushed.

Ten days is a possible to sample the highlights, as you immerse yourself in the diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes of these three countries.

Explore the bustling streets of Bangkok, savoring the vibrant markets and sampling local delicacies. Discover the awe-inspiring ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, where centuries of history unfold in intricate stone carvings. Cruise through the captivating limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, taking in the breathtaking natural scenery.

Where to Visit During Your Vacation

Days 1-2: Hanoi Days 3-4: Ha Long Bay Days 5-6: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Days 7-8: Bangkok Days 9-10: Phuket  

See our private and personalized  Essential Tour to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam 

Two weeks is a perfect chance to sample the highlights of the three countries, from history and culture to nature.

With an incredible collection of things to see and do, you can wander through bustling markets and witness the ornate beauty of Bangkok's temples. Traverse the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia.

Experience the vibrant street life of Hanoi and cruise through the mystical karst formations of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. Delve into the poignant history of the Vietnam War in Ho Chi Minh City and venture to the Mekong Delta to see floating markets.

Days 1-3: Bangkok Days 4-5: Chiang Mai Days 6-7: Hanoi Days 8-9: Ha Long Bay Days 10-12: Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta Days 13-14: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat)

See the detailed itinerary of our 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour .

21 days can provide you with the opportunity for an in-depth exploration of Southeast Asia. Beyond the must-see attractions, you can immerse yourself in authentic experiences meticulously curated by our team of experts, unveiling the true essence of each destination.

With natural wonders and cultural heritage to explore, you can find endless immersive experiences as you travel on a 21-day tour of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Bask in a food tour and the culinary majesty of Bangkok, explore the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, and cruise through the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay. 

Discover the historical significance of Hoi An, explore the bustling markets of Hanoi, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, and relax on the pristine beaches of Koh Samui.

Days 1-3: Hanoi Days 4-5: Ha Long Bay Days 6-7: Hoi An Days 8-11: Ho Chi Minh City &  Mekong Delta Days 12-14: Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Days 15-16: Bangkok Days 17-18: Chiang Mai Days 19-21: Koh Samui

See our in-depth Southeast Asia tour for inspiration .

Southeast Asia offers great value for money. That's one of the reasons it's so popular. In Southeast Asia, a private tour is an affordable luxury.

Our private tours offer you customized options for couples and families (with our one-to-one travel consultant, you can always get in contact to make changes whenever it is convenient for you), more personal space, a more in-depth and less-touristy experience (different to group tours), and a worry-stopping contingency service (24-hour helpline and free cancellation policy ).

• A typical private tour costs around 200–250 USD per day per person (including airfares within Southeast Asia, 4-/5-star hotel, lunch, attractions, guide and transfers).
• US$ 250–350 per day per person is needed for the most luxurious arrangements (all the above with 5+ star hotels).
• 30%–50% off for each kid younger than 10 years old

Thus, for a private family trip with 2 adults and 2 kids, the average cost for a 3-week trip in Southeast Asia would be about 14,000 to 16,000 USD. International airfares are not included.

For a couple, the average cost for a 3-week trip in Southeast Asia would be about 8,500 to 10,000 USD, not including international airfares. 

Best Times to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam enjoy similar climates because of their close proximity. November to March is the best time to visit with the most sunny and dry weather. Hotel and flight prices rise accordingly however.

One of the busiest times is around Christmas/New Year holiday  when hotels and flights are easily booked up. Due to the high demand, you're suggested to prepare your tour at least 3 months in advance. Let us know your interests and requirements , and we'll take care of everything.

If you want to enjoy nice weather without being surrounded by crowds , late October or early April are particularly good times to visit (the times just before and after the peak season).

June to early October is the rainy season in most parts of Southeast Asia. It may cause some discomfort and inconvenience, but lower prices and smaller crowds are the rewards.

See more on our Best Times to visit Southeast Asia, Worst Times, Rainy Season...

Which Country to Enter First?

Flying to Vietnam or Thailand first is usually the most choice, because Cambodia has fewer options for international flights than the other two countries. But Cambodia offers easy access to/from Thailand and Vietnam, so it's good as the middle country.

Thus, the travel route usually goes Vietnam–Cambodia–Thailand or Thailand–Cambodia–Vietnam.

Going to Thailand or Vietnam first may depend on plane ticket prices, the flight situation from your city, your travel preferences, and so on.

Flights from major U.S. cities to Thailand and Vietnam require transfers. It takes least time to transfer via Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Seoul.

We would work out the best itinerary to match the time of your international flights, leaving time for jet lag recovery and making sure you start your Southeast Asia trip on the right foot.

Contact us if you have any problems. We will give you the best options and suggestions according to your travel time.

How to Travel between Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel between Thailand (Bangkok), Cambodia (Phnom Penh or Siem Reap), and Vietnam (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City). There are direct flights for these cities. Each journey takes about 1–1½ hours.

We would arrange all transportation within Southeast Asia for you . Your travel consultant would search the flight schedules and book the most suitable connections for you.

Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam all have relaxed entry policies.

Vietnam requires a tourist visa if you're from the US, Canada, Australia, etc. The most convenient way is to apply for an e-visa online . This is a very simple process that just requires you to fill in some information. If you are from certain European countries like the UK, France, Italy, and Germany, you can enjoy visa-free entry.

Cambodia also requires a tourist visa, which can either be obtained online, or when you arrive at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap Airport. 

Thailand allows visa-free entry from 64 countries, including the USA, and the UK, Canada, Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Norway, etc.

If you have any questions or difficulties in applying, you can contact one of our travel consultants here for help.

Ready to Plan Your Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Trip?

Embark on a journey through the beauty of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, delving into the heart of Southeast Asia. From the vibrant streets of Bangkok to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat and the stunning landscapes of Ha Long Bay, each country has its own unique charm waiting to be discovered during your personalized trip.

Our Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam Tours provide inspiration for your perfect trip. Speak with a travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request .

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