Southeast Asia is a backpacker’s paradise, alluring travelers with its golden temples, vibrant culture, delicious food and tropical landscapes.
For those with limited time, visiting both Vietnam and Cambodia in 2 weeks is an excellent way to explore the highlights of Indochina.
This action-packed itinerary takes you to the top attractions in Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
Getting There and Around
Southeast Asia is well connected by air making it easy to fly into Hanoi and out from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh.
Opt for budget airlines for cheaper deals. Buses, trains and domestic flights offer convenient transport around and between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Day 1-3: Hanoi
Kickstart your trip in Vietnam’s bustling capital. Wander through the Old Quarter’s street markets and sample Vietnam’s flavorful cuisine like pho noodle soup.
Visit French colonial landmarks before enjoying a traditional water puppet show. Take a day trip out to Halong Bay, where you can cruise between forested limestone islands on an overnight junk boat tour.
Day 4-6: Hoi An
Fly or bus it down to central Vietnam’s Hoi An, a wonderfully preserved ancient town and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
On the way, stop at Hue to explore its imperial citadel and royal tombs. In Hoi An, tailor-make clothes, walk along the lantern-lit streets and visit nearby My Son Sanctuary’s atmospheric Cham ruins.
Day 7-8: Siem Reap
Cross over into Cambodia via a direct bus and spend a couple days uncovering the temples of Angkor near Siem Reap.
Watch a magical sunrise over the turreted silhouette of Angkor Wat before wandering through its extensive complex.
Tour the Bayon and its iconic carved faces within Angkor Thom and the tree entwined Ta Prohm, finishing with a view over Angkor from Bakheng Hill.
Day 9-11: Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s lively capital Phnom Penh boasts cultural attractions like the Royal Palace and National Museum as well as somber Khmer Rouge sites.
Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former prison, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek outside the city. Phnom Penh also has a buzzing food, drink and nightlife scene along Sisowath Quay.
Day 12-14: Sihanoukville or Southern Islands
End your trip relaxing on the tropical beaches of Sihanoukville or heading further south to the island paradises of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem.
Go snorkeling, diving, island hopping and enjoy seafood barbecues as the sun sets over the bay.
Spending 2 weeks touring Vietnam and Cambodia gives you just enough time to see the highlights at a steady pace.
Follow this suggested route to maximize your time while unveiling the rich culture, compelling history and natural beauty of Southeast Asia. Let the adventure begin!
