UNESCO Treasures of Vietnam & Cambodia: Caves, Temples & Ruins - 21 Days

Highlights

• Embark on culture, food, and heritage tours in Hanoi
• Visit UNESCO sites like Ha Long Bay and Phong Nha Cave
• Tour the ancient citadel in Hue and visit temple ruins at Angkor
• Travel to the river city of Hoi An and the Mekong Delta region
• Witness Khmer culture in Cambodia, from Phnom Penh to Battambang

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Hanoi (Vietnam), Street Food Tour

Welcome to Vietnam! Despite being a relatively small country in Southeast Asia, Vietnam boasts a whopping eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include a mix of cultural and natural gems, all of which highlight the country's rich history and world-renowned beauty. There's no better base in which to kick off a Vietnam discovery tour than its capital of Hanoi, itself a hotbed of ancient history, deep culture, and mind-blowing cuisine. 

Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will transfer you to your hotel. No rest for the wicked—right after checking in, you'll hit the streets for your first Vietnam adventure: a culinary tour to sample Hanoi's incredible street food. Along with an expert guide, you'll stop at food vendors and small restaurants to eat like a local. Tasty morsels you'll try include pho bo (beef noodle soup), cha ca (grilled fish with turmeric), nem chua (fermented pork), trung vit lon (fertilized duck egg), and more. As you eat, you'll learn the history behind the bites and wash it all down with a local beer or a refreshing milk coffee.

Day 2: Hanoi Heritage Tour & Water Puppet Show

Leave the hotel early on a private, full-day tour to see Hanoi's historic landmarks. It starts around 8 am with a transfer to West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi. You'll visit Tran Quoc Pagoda here. Dating to the Ly Nam De Dynasty of the sixth century, this is the oldest Buddhist shrine in Hanoi.

Next is the Thang Long Citadel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was built during the Ly Dynasty in the 11th century, and for centuries afterward, it was the seat of power for various Vietnamese dynasties. It remains one of the most vital historical landmarks in the country, famous for its ancient gates and palaces. Then, continue to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam's first-ever national university (also dating to the 11th century). Following this, you'll visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of revolutionary leader "Uncle Ho," who died in 1969

Day 3: Transfer to Ha Long Bay, Board Overnight Cruise

Rise and shine! Today starts with a three-hour transfer to Ha Long Bay, where you'll board the luxurious Athena Royal for your overnight cruise of this UNESCO-listed landmark. Sail across the bay, taking in views of more than 2,000 limestone karsts steeped in Vietnamese legend. A delicious seafood lunch onboard awaits, followed by plenty of time to sit on the sun deck as you sail to the most remote corners of Ha Long Bay.

In the afternoon, visit limestone caves and secret coves, where you can swim and kayak to hidden beaches. Return to your ship to watch the sunset from the deck, accompanied by snacks and drinks. The ship's chef will lead a cooking masterclass, teaching you how to make specialties such as nem (Vietnamese fried spring rolls) for dinner. You can spend the evening relaxing, join the locals for a spot of night fishing, or indulge in a massage. 

Day 4: Morning Cruise, Transfer to Hanoi, Fly to Dong Hoi

Wake early and enjoy a light breakfast on the ship's deck amid sunrise views over Ha Long Bay, deemed one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The rest of the morning is yours to relax and join an activity like an outdoor tai chi class on the sundeck. You can also hop in a kayak and paddle across the placid emerald waters to a limestone cave full of stalagmites and stalactites. Later, Enjoy a buffet lunch on board while you sail back to the harbor.

Back on land, a driver will be waiting to transfer you back to the airport in Hanoi, where you'll board a one-hour flight to Dong Hoi. Located on Vietnam's northern central coast, this attractive seaside city is the gateway to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic karst landscapes and extensive cave systems. You'll get to explore Phong Nha tomorrow—upon arrival, you'll transfer to your hotel and rest up for the bid day ahead. 

Day 5: Day Trip to Phong Nha Cave

After breakfast, set out to explore Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. This famously beautiful 341-square-mile (885 sq km) protected area joined the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003. It's not hard to see the attraction—with its limestone peaks, vast caverns, evergreen jungles, and bamboo forests, it's one of the top destinations for nature lovers in the country. This morning, you'll visit the most popular attraction in the region: Phong Nha Cave.

A boat ride along an underground river leads to this massive cavern, which is 4.8 miles (7.7 km) long. As you explore the cave, you'll pass giant stalactites and stalagmites rising from the floor and hanging from the ceiling. You'll also visit Paradise Cave, another park highlight. At 19 miles (31 km) long, it's the longest dry cave in Asia. After marveling at the underground rock formations, you'll leave the park and return to your hotel.

Day 6: Transfer to Hue, Vinh Moc Tunnels Tour

Leave Dong Hoi in the morning on a 1.5-hour drive south down the coast into Quang Tri. This province is a major part of the country's wartime legacy, as it was the site of intense bombing during the American War (as the Vietnam War is known locally). The region included the Demilitarized Zone (a wartime buffer between North and South Vietnam), and many remnants of this period remain.

You'll be visiting one such landmark today: the Vinh Moc Tunnels. Situated in a region heavily affected by bombing during the war, the Vinh Moc Tunnels served as a refuge for the local population. This intricate network of underground passages runs approximately 1.1 miles (1.7 km) and was strategically constructed to provide shelter from airstrikes and artillery bombardment. Today, the tunnels, which are kept in their original form, serve as a museum, and you'll get to explore them on a tour.

After touring the tunnels, the drive continues with a transfer another two hours down the coast to Hue. Located on the Perfume River, Hue was the ancient capital of Vietnam's feudal Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). This history is represented in its Imperial City, a massive citadel and another addition to Vietnam's list of UNESCO landmarks. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel.

Day 7: Hue Imperial City Tour

Day 8: Transfer to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass

Meet your driver this morning for the 2.5-hour ride south from Hue down the coast to the river city of Hoi An. During this scenic 13-mile (21 km) drive, you'll cross over the magnificent Hai Van Pass. Also known as the "Cloudy Pass" due to the great tufts of white that often settle on these coastal mountains, the viewpoints here on clear days are incredible.

Besides stopping at viewpoints to snap photos, you'll also take a break in the coastal city of Da Nang and visit the Museum of Cham Sculpture. The Cham people are an ethnic group with a long history in central and southern Vietnam. They ruled Champa, an ancient Indochinese kingdom, from the second through the 19th centuries CE. This civilization was known for its distinctive culture, including Hindu influences and unique art—examples of which you'll see at the museum.

Later, visit the famous Marble Mountains—a cluster of coastal limestone and marble hills. If you like, you can stop to hike the 156 steps up Thuy Son, a mountain from whose summit you'll enjoy panoramic views over the coast. You can also stop for a relaxing break at Non Nuoc, one of the city's main urban beaches. Eventually, you'll arrive in Hoi An and check into your hotel. Sitting on the Thu Bon River, this historic city was a major trading port with the West from the 15th through the 19th centuries, and much historic architecture remains in its Ancient Town. 

Day 9: My Son & Hoi An Highlights Tour

Today starts with an hour's transfer inland from Hoi An to the My Son Sanctuary. This UNESCO archaeological site is unique to Vietnam in that it consists of Hindu tower temples built between the fourth and 13th centuries in honor of the god Shiva. They represent what was once the spiritual and political capital of the Champa Kingdom from the fourth to the fifth centuries CE. 

You'll spend time touring the redbrick temples here and admiring their ornate sandstone bas-reliefs depicting scenes of Hindu mythology. Afterward, you'll enjoy a performance of traditional Hindu music. Then, board a boat for a scenic ride up the Thu Bon River back to Hoi An.

After lunch, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Hoi An's historic Ancient Town. Along with a guide, you'll stroll the waterfront, lined with old merchant buildings, tea houses, boutiques, ancient shrines, and more. One highlight you'll visit is the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, built by Japanese immigrants as a link to the Chinese quarter across a small stream. Nearby is the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation, which dates to 1845.

Day 10: Morning Cooking Class, Transfer to Da Nang, Fly to Ho Chi Minh City

This morning, you'll meet a guide for a half-day cooking workshop. It starts at a local market in or around Hoi An's Ancient Town, where you'll pick up meat, fresh produce, and other ingredients for use during the class. Then, you'll walk to the workshop, where a professional chef will guide you through preparing famous Vietnamese dishes. This includes regional cuisine like green papaya salad, spring rolls, crispy pancakes, and clay pot chicken with lemon grass. Everyone will sit down for lunch when you're done cooking and enjoy your creations. 

Afterward, you'll transfer to the airport in Da Nang for the 1.5-hour flight south to Ho Chi Minh City. Formerly known as Saigon, Vietnam's largest metropolis is steeped in history yet is also on the cutting edge of modernity. Upon arrival, a driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel.

Day 11: Ho Chi Minh City Culture & Heritage Tour

Dive into Ho Chi Minh City's culture and history this morning as you embark on a full-day tour of the former Saigon. From the hotel, your guide will take you to visit Cho Lon (Chinatown) and stop at Thien Hau Pagoda, an 18th-century temple dedicated to the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. Then, browse the fresh produce, handicrafts, fabrics, and food stalls at Binh Tay, a historic covered market dating to the 19th century. 

Afterward, proceed to the War Remnants Museum for a vivid look at the American War through the eyes of the Vietnamese. Highlights here include various exhibits—like weaponry and military equipment—as well as historical photos, prison-cell recreations, and tiger cages. It's guaranteed to leave an indelible impression.

Next, travel to 19th-century landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. You'll also visit Reunification Palace (also known as Independence Palace), which was the headquarters of the Saigon government during the war. Cap the excursion with a stroll along the upscale shopping drag at Dong Khoi Street.

Day 12: Boat Trip to the Mekong Delta & Cycling

This morning, you'll transfer south to the lush Mekong Delta. Known as Vietnam's rice bowl, this region is full of mangroves, sugar cane plantations, and flourishing rice paddies. Board a boat for a ride down the Ben Tre River, one of the tributaries of the mighty Mekong. Along the way, you'll stop and visit local businesses like a brick workshop. The region is also famous for its coconut candies, and you'll visit a factory to see how these tasty confections are made. 

Next, stop at a small riverside village for tea with a family that makes hand-woven rush mats. Then, explore the town by bike or xe loi (motor cart) and witness scenes of peaceful riverine life. You'll pass verdant rice fields, coconut groves, vegetable farms, and exotic fruit orchards. Have lunch at a restaurant on the banks of the river, then hop on a traditional raft and paddle down a creek. Afterward, you'll transfer back to Ho Chi Minh City and will have the evening free.

Day 13: Free Morning in Ho Chi Minh City, Fly to Phnom Penh (Cambodia)

Take the morning to discover Ho Chi Minh City's highlights on your own. For some of the best views in the city, head to Bitexco Tower and enjoy the 360-degree panoramas from the observation deck on the 49th floor. For a bit of culture, visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts, which features 22,000 pieces of art from ancient times to the present day. Alternatively, sit down at a café and do some people-watching with a cup of local egg coffee—a frothy egg mixture on top of a strong shot of espresso.

Later, you'll transfer to the airport for the one-hour flight to Phnom Penh. Welcome to Cambodia! The nation's capital is a grand metropolis of over two million people. Founded in the 14th century, it became the capital after the fall of the Angkor Empire. There's been a lot of history in the intervening centuries, much of it represented in the city's famous temples, museums, and Art Deco buildings from the French colonial era. At the airport, a driver will pick you up for the ride to your hotel.

Day 14: Full-Day Highlights & Killing Fields Tour

Meet your guide in the morning for a full day exploring the culture and history (both regal and infamous) of Cambodia. This highlights tour begins with a visit to the Royal Palace, home to Cambodia's royal family. This 19th-century architectural marvel features intricate carvings and towering spires that exemplify Khmer design. Also, here is the Silver Pagoda, one of Southeast Asia's most impressive Buddhist temples. These days it serves as a repository for cultural treasures such as a life-size golden Buddha encrusted with 2,086 diamonds.

Next, stop at the National Museum (or Musee des Beaux-Arts). French archaeologist and painter Georges Groslier designed it in 1917, and it contains an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts—particularly sculptures—from throughout the ages. You'll also visit Wat Phnom (Phnom Penh's namesake), a 14th-century temple that's the tallest religious structure in the city. From its location on a hill, you can enjoy views over the city's wide tree-lined avenues.

The latter half of the tour focuses on Cambodia's harrowing Khmer Rouge era (1975-1979). During this time, Pol Pot's genocidal military dictatorship claimed the lives of over two million Cambodians or about 25% of the country. Historical landmarks you'll visit include the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. Also known as S21, during the regime, Tuol Sleng was converted into a detention center, where prisoners were interrogated before being sent to the Killing Fields to be brutally tortured and murdered. At the end of the day, return to your hotel.

Day 15: Transfer to Battambang, Ride the Bamboo Train

Meet your driver in the morning for the four-hour transfer to Battambang, located at the northwest edge of the country. This city is the capital of the province of the same name and is famous for its beautiful colonial architecture and ancient Khmer temples.

Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and head out on a sightseeing tour. Highlights include a walk around famous French colonial landmarks as well as a visit to the central market. For a bit of fun, you'll head over to the Bamboo Train—an old railway track offering rides on a rickety old bamboo platform.

Day 16: Half-Day Bike Tour & Bat Caves

Early this morning, meet up with a local Cambodian student and hop on a bicycle for a half-day tour of the Battambang countryside. Throughout the trip, you'll stop at small villages and meet local families for a cultural exchange. It's a great opportunity to see how rural Cambodians live and the traditional means by which they support themselves. Many trades and skills have been passed down over generations, including producing rice paper, cooking sticky rice in bamboo, manufacturing fish paste, rice wine, and other items. 

In the afternoon, you'll transfer about 7 miles (11 km) southwest of the city to Phnom Sampeou mountain. Steeped in legend, this landmark features prominently in Cambodia's cultural and religious lore. It also boasts a number of wonders worth exploring, including various caves home to everything from Buddhist shrines and temples to bat colonies. One cave was even used as a killing chamber during the infamous Khmer Rouge era in the 1970s. At the end of the day, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 17: Transfer to Siem Reap, Khmer Village & Tonlé Sap Tour

Leave in the morning on a 2.5-hour transfer east to Siem Reap. This town in northwest Cambodia sits near the shores of Tonlé Sap and is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. These ruins were once the capital city of the Khmer Kingdom from the ninth to 15th centuries. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and then meet a guide for a half-day trip around the lake area. It starts with a scenic transfer along rice fields and palm groves to a traditional Khmer village in the countryside.

After getting to know some locals with the help of your guide, you'll continue to Tonlé Sap. This is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems. Here, you'll board a boat to tour the lake's famous floating villages. These remarkable communities exist right on the water and have their own infrastructure, including schools, markets, and restaurants. At the end of the experience, you'll return to Siem Reap.

Day 18: Day Trip to Angkor Thom & Angkor Wat

Today, you'll visit Angkor Thom (literally "Great City"), once the most impressive royal city of Cambodia's Angkor period. During its heyday in the 12th-13th centuries, it was a formidable defensive area, protected by 26-foot (8 m) walls and a wide moat. Looming over Angkor Thom are the 54 towers of Bayon Temple. King Jayavarman VII commissioned it in the 12th century, and his smiling face is represented in its 216 stone sculptures. Other highlights include the Terrace of the Elephants (featuring sculptures of elephants), Phimeanakas (a three-tiered pyramid), and the Terrace of the Leper King.

After Angkor Thom, you'll tour the most famous temple of all: Angkor Wat. Famed for its majesty and splendor, this 12th-century complex is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer walls and narrates stories from Hindu mythology. Its five towers are so iconic they're actually emblazoned on the Cambodian flag. While here, you'll stroll Angor Wat's galleries, libraries, pavilions, and courtyards. Afterward, enjoy a sunset view from Bakheng Hill (or at the less crowded Pre Rup, a 10th-century Hindu temple).

Day 19: Banteay Srei & Sunset Food Tour

Wake before dawn for a bucket-list sunrise trip to Angkor Wat. Watch the light transform this world-famous monument in shades of gold. Afterward, head back to your hotel for breakfast before heading out again, stopping to visit rural villages on your way to Banteay Srei, also known as the Citadel of Women. Marvel at the 10th-century temple's intricate carvings and sandstone architecture. 

In the afternoon, you'll move on to Ta Prohm, built between the late 12th and early 13th centuries. Its ruins are entwined with the forest's trees and vines and were featured in the "Tomb Raider" movies. Next is Ta Keo, an unfinished mountain temple that predates Angkor Wat; admire its five sanctuary towers set on a 72-foot-high (22 m) pyramid, offering sweeping views of the temple-studded landscape. 

Later, hop in a tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) and zip around the city on a guided food tour. Begin with a visit to a restaurant specializing in the regional cuisine of a small ethnic minority group. Next, travel to the outskirts of the city and enjoy a cold beer as you watch the sunset over the rice paddies. Continue to a traditional village, where you'll visit the home of a local family for a meal. Following this is a trip to a Cambodian barbecue restaurant to see why this country is known for its beef skewers. End your night at a local haunt where you'll enjoy a cocktail or beer amid friendly company.

Day 20: Visit Phnom Kulen & Beng Mealea

The last adventure of your trip takes you an hour out of the city to the sacred Phnom Kulen (Kulen Mountain). It was here that King Jayavarma II proclaimed independence from Java in 804 CE, leading to the mountain's nickname, "the Birthplace of the Khmer Empire." As you ascend the slopes, you'll encounter lush jungles, hidden waterfalls, and intricate carvings on the riverbeds called "lingams." At the summit, explore Preah Ang Thom, the largest temple on the mountain, and admire the famous reclining Buddha before descending.

On the way back to Siem Reap, stop at Beng Mealea, one of the most mysterious temples of Angkor. The lush Cambodian jungle hid the temple complex until French explorers rediscovered it in the late 19th century. It remains largely unrestored, with massive trees and thick vegetation intertwining with the stone carvings, so step carefully upon the wooden walkways. When you return to the city, visit the Made in Cambodia Market to browse some of the most compelling examples of craftsmanship in Cambodia and stock up on one-of-a-kind souvenirs before tomorrow's flight.

Day 21: Depart Siem Reap

You've visited some of the most epic UNESCO sites in the world—now it's time to pack up the photos and memories and move on to the next adventure. In the morning, you'll transfer to the airport in Siem Reap and catch your flight home. Hope to see you soon!

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