This Southeast Asia tour is designed for travelers seeking authenticity and meaningful cultural discoveries. Over the course of a 3-week itinerary, you will journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, following a well-balanced route that allows for an in-depth exploration of each country’s local traditions and cultural heritage.
Throughout the journey, you will meet local communities, explore iconic temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and experience ancient ways of life that are still very much alive today. Far from standardized tourist routes, this itinerary focuses on cultural immersion, human connections, and a gradual discovery of the true spirit of Southeast Asia.
Hanoi and Ha Long Bay: an immersion into Vietnamese culture and iconic natural landscapes
Hoi An and Hue: imperial heritage and centuries-old traditions
Angkor in Siem Reap: treasures of Khmer cultural heritage
Bangkok and Ayutthaya: major temples and Thai traditions
Local markets and villages: authentic encounters to discover local traditions across Southeast Asia
Day 1: Hanoi – Arrival
Day 2: Hanoi – City tour
Day 3: Hanoi – Ninh Binh (landscape bay)
Day 4: Ninh Binh – Ha Long Bay
Day 5: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi – Evening flight to Hue
Day 6: Hue – City tour
Day 7: Hue – Hoi An
Day 8: Hoi An – Free day
Day 9: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh City
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Ben Tre – Can Tho
Day 11: Can Tho – Chau Doc (Mekong Delta)
Day 12: Chau Doc – Phnom Penh
Day 13: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap
Day 14: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat & Angkor Thom
Day 15: Siem Reap – Small & Grand Angkor Circuit
Day 16: Siem Reap – Chiang Mai – Khantoke dinner
Day 17: Chiang Mai – City tour
Day 18: Chiang Mai – Elephant Nature Park – Overnight train to Bangkok
Day 19: Bangkok – City tour
Day 20: Bangkok – Maeklong & Damnoen Saduak markets
Day 21: Bangkok – Departure
Arrival in Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam. You are welcomed by our local guide and begin an immersive 3-week itinerary in Southeast Asia, dedicated to discovering the region’s local traditions and rich cultural heritage.
Transfer to your hotel located in the heart of the city (rooms available from 2:00 p.m.). Depending on your arrival time, your first explorations introduce you to the timeless charm of Hanoi, a true symbol of Vietnam’s and Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage.
Highlights include:
Ly Thai To Square, offering insight into the ancient history of the Vietnamese capital
Hoan Kiem Lake with the Jade Mountain Temple and Turtle Islet, the vibrant heart of Hanoi
The Old Quarter and its famous 36 guild streets, the historic commercial center dating back over 1,000 years. Enjoy a walking tour through artisan streets named after traditional trades (silk, cotton, iron, sugar, medicinal herbs), with a visit to Ma May Street and a traditional “tube house,” characteristic of Hanoi’s architecture and local traditions
A glimpse of the French colonial heritage, including a cyclo ride past the Opera House, Metropole Hotel, State Bank, and Central Post Office
Overnight at the hotel.
A full day dedicated to Hanoi’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, outstanding testimonies of Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage:
Temple of Literature, symbol of Confucian education and one of Hanoi’s most iconic sites
Ba Dinh Square, featuring the former Governor-General’s Palace, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, displaying over 25,000 artifacts from Vietnam’s ethnic groups, illustrating the diversity of local traditions (closed on Mondays)
Water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
Overnight at the hotel.
Departure for Ninh Binh, an emblematic region of Southeast Asia’s natural and cultural heritage, known for its limestone karsts, sugar-loaf mountains, and flooded rice fields.
Arrival in Ninh Xuan and visit to Mua cave mountain. Climb 486 stone steps to the summit, where a bell-shaped peak offers breathtaking panoramic views over Tam Coc, one of the most spectacular landscapes of your 3-week itinerary in Southeast Asia.
Transfer to Tam Coc for a cycling excursion and relaxation, allowing for authentic immersion into rural life and local traditions.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat trip along the Ngo Dong River, winding through rice paddies and limestone formations, passing beneath three natural caves – an exceptional natural setting representative of Southeast Asia’s heritage.
Later, visit Hoa Lu, the former imperial capital of Vietnam (960 – 1009). Discover the temples of Kings Dinh and Le, nestled among rice fields and karst peaks, major landmarks of Vietnamese cultural heritage.
Overnight in Ninh Binh.
Departure for Ha Long Bay, considered the most beautiful bay in Vietnam and one of the most enchanting landscapes in Southeast Asia.
Board a traditional wooden junk and begin a scenic cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, the quieter and more preserved northern part of Ha Long Bay:
Admire limestone islands and islets with imaginative shapes (sails, dogs, roosters, incense burners)
Visit magnificent caves such as Thien Canh Son Cave, featuring ancient stalactites and stalagmites, remarkable elements of the region’s natural heritage
Continue cruising to Cap La for kayaking and swimming in crystal-clear waters (weather permitting)
In the late afternoon, relax on the sundeck. Participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration on board, learning how to prepare spring rolls or nem, a hands-on experience of local traditions.
Lunch and dinner on board.
Overnight on the junk.
Early wake-up to witness a magical moment as the first sunlight illuminates the limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. Join a Tai Chi session on the deck, a traditional practice deeply rooted in Southeast Asian culture.
Enjoy a boat or kayak excursion to Vung Vieng fishing village, offering encounters with local fishermen and insight into their daily life and local traditions.
After lunch on board, disembark and return to Hanoi for an evening flight to Hue, the former imperial capital of central Vietnam and a major center of cultural heritage.
Overnight in Hue.
Discover Hue, the last imperial capital of Vietnam (1802–1945), a key highlight of your cultural 3-week itinerary in Southeast Asia:
The Imperial Citadel, political and residential center of the Nguyen emperors for over 140 years
Minh Mang Mausoleum, dedicated to one of the most influential Nguyen emperors
Phu Mong village, famous for its traditional garden houses, an essential element of Hue’s imperial identity
Thien Mu Pagoda or the peaceful Tu Hieu Pagoda, final resting place of Nguyen dynasty eunuchs; depending on timing, observe monks’ prayers
Dong Ba Market, the oldest and largest market in Hue, where local specialties and traditional crafts are sold
Overnight at the hotel.
Departure by road to Hoi An, a charming ancient town located 150 km south of Hue. Several stops along the way:
The unspoiled beaches of Thuan An and Lang Co, bordering vast lagoons dedicated to local aquaculture
Hai Van Pass, the highest point in central Vietnam
Visits to small cajeput oil workshops
Discovery of impressive traditional cemeteries, often called “ghost cities,” finely sculpted architectural ensembles reflecting local beliefs and the cultural heritage of Southeast Asia
Arrival in Hoi An in the afternoon.
Overnight at the hotel.
A full day at leisure to explore the ancient town of Hoi An at your own pace, often described as “the most charming town in Vietnam.” This iconic stop on your Southeast Asia journey highlights the town’s remarkably preserved cultural heritage.
You may choose to explore the old town, rich in historical and architectural landmarks:
Fujian Assembly Hall, dedicated to the protective goddess of fishermen and sailors
Phuc Thanh Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hoi An (built in 1454)
The Japanese Covered Bridge (1593), along with narrow ancient streets, museums, and centuries-old wooden houses
Alternatively, enjoy relaxation on the beautiful beaches of the East Sea such as Cua Dai or An Bang, located near Hoi An, or venture into the surrounding countryside to visit traditional villages specializing in vegetables, pottery, or carpentry – an excellent way to connect with local traditions.
Overnight at the hotel.
(1 hour by road + 1 hour flight)
Flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the dynamic southern metropolis. This vibrant city forms part of a well-balanced 3-week itinerary in Southeast Asia, combining urban discovery with cultural exploration.
Upon arrival, visit:
Ben Thanh Market, an iconic symbol of the city
Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, designed from plans attributed to Gustave Eiffel
The Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Building, formerly the City Hall, the finest example of colonial architecture
The Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine, showcasing medical practices dating back over 3,000 years
Cholon (Chinatown) with the Thien Hau Temple, dedicated to the Lady of the Sea
Overnight at the hotel.
Departure for the Mekong Delta, a unique region at the southern tip of Vietnam, half land and half water, emblematic of rural life in Southeast Asia and deeply rooted in local traditions.
Arrival in Ben Tre, a riverside town in the heart of the Mekong’s northern branches. Enjoy a boat trip along narrow waterways to Nhon Thanh, a rural area known for its coconut-based economy. Visit brick kilns to learn about traditional brick-making, followed by a tasting of local fruits and honey tea in a garden setting.
Continue with a bicycle or motorized cyclo ride (xe loi) across lush islands shaded by coconut palms. Away from mass tourism, this peaceful route offers poetic scenery and visits to small workshops producing coconut candy and woven mats.
End the experience with a traditional rowing boat ride through palm-lined canals (arroyos), providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in the delta.
In the afternoon, drive to Can Tho, the main city of the Mekong Delta.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Approx. 3.5 hours by road)
Early morning departure from Can Tho, the administrative center of the Mekong Delta, located along one of the Mekong’s main branches – one of the most important river systems in Southeast Asia and a cornerstone of regional life shaped by local traditions.
Board a boat for a cruise on the Mekong River and visit the lively Cai Rang Floating Market, where numerous boats loaded with fruits and vegetables create a colorful and vibrant spectacle.
Disembark and continue by road to Chau Doc, followed by a visit to the wild Tra Su Cajuput Forest Nature Reserve. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through narrow waterways surrounded by flooded forest, offering a serene immersion in nature.
Overnight at the hotel.
(Approx. 4.5 hours by speedboat)
Board a speedboat for an upstream journey along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia and a major cultural stop on your Southeast Asia journey focused on regional cultural heritage.
Arrival around midday, welcome by the local guide, and transfer to the hotel.
In the afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Phnom Penh, including:
Wat Phnom, the Buddhist temple from which the city takes its name
The Royal Palace, residence and workplace of the Cambodian kings since 1870
The Silver Pagoda, renowned for its floor made of silver tiles
The National Museum of Cambodia, housing exceptional collections of Khmer art
Overnight in Phnom Penh.
(Approx. 6 hours by road)
Drive to Siem Reap, one of the most significant historical destinations included in this 3-week itinerary across Southeast Asia. Several stops enrich the journey:
Kampong Cham, with a visit to Skun Market, famous for its local delicacy of fried insects (tarantulas, locusts, and other specialties)
Kampong Kdei, home to the ancient Spean Praptos Bridge, a laterite bridge dating back to the Angkor period (11th century), among the oldest of its kind in the world
Visit to Sambor Prei Kuk, a 7th-century archaeological site and the most important pre-Angkorian complex, featuring over one hundred brick temples scattered throughout the forest
Arrival in Siem Reap in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
A full day dedicated to exploring the mystical temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the former capital of the Khmer Empire (9th – 15th centuries) and among the greatest treasures of cultural heritage in Southeast Asia.
Angkor Wat, dedicated to Vishnu, the supreme god of Hinduism, considered the masterpiece of Khmer architecture
Angkor Thom, a fortified city covering 10 km², once home to nearly one million inhabitants. Visit the South Gate, the Elephant Terrace, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the iconic Bayon Temple, with its 54 towers and 216 serene faces of Avalokiteshvara
Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon.
Evening at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, explore the majestic temples of the Small and Grand Angkor Circuits, iconic highlights of your 3-week itinerary through Southeast Asia.
Visits include:
Banteay Srei (Citadel of Women), one of the most exquisite pink sandstone temples, renowned for its finely carved apsaras and Hindu deities
The sacred temples of Ta Keo and Banteay Kdei, followed by the impressive Ta Prohm, a former Buddhist monastery overtaken by towering trees and gigantic roots entwined with the stone structures
At the end of the day, enjoy a magical sunset from Pre Rup Temple, a classic temple-mountain offering panoramic views.
Return to Siem Reap.
Overnight at the hotel.
Flight from Siem Reap to Chiang Mai, a culturally rich city in northern Thailand and a new highlight of your Southeast Asia journey.
Upon arrival, transfer to a unique cultural experience: a Khantoke dinner. This traditional northern Thai meal is served in a warm and festive atmosphere, accompanied by regional dishes and cultural performances, offering an authentic introduction to local traditions and northern Thai culinary heritage.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
A full day dedicated to discovering Chiang Mai, founded in the 13th century and shaped by the legacy of Lanna, Siamese, and Burmese civilizations—an outstanding expression of Southeast Asia’s cultural heritage.
Highlights include:
Walking tour of the Old City, with its ancient walls, moat, and historic gates
Visits to Chiang Mai’s most beautiful temples: Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang
Stroll through narrow streets lined with traditional houses, a rickshaw ride, and exploration of Warorot Market, the city’s central market
In the afternoon, ascend Doi Suthep Hill, either by climbing 290 steps or by cable car. At the summit, admire the golden chedi housing sacred Buddha relics and enjoy sweeping views over the city and surrounding countryside.
Overnight in Chiang Mai.
Meet your guide at the hotel and depart by vehicle for approximately 1.5 hours south of Chiang Mai, passing through hills, forests, and agricultural landscapes—an immersive nature experience in Southeast Asia.
Arrival at an ethical elephant sanctuary nestled in the jungle. Learn about elephant anatomy, history, and behavior, as well as conservation efforts deeply connected to local traditions of animal protection.
Change into traditional Karen clothing and prepare bananas and sugarcane to feed the elephants, allowing for respectful interaction in their natural environment.
In the evening, board the overnight train to Bangkok.
A full day dedicated to discovering Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand and a major highlight of your 3-week itinerary in Southeast Asia.
Visits include:
The Grand Palace, Thailand’s most iconic landmark
The revered Emerald Buddha, the country’s most sacred statue
Wat Pho, famous for its 45-meter-long Reclining Buddha
Wat Traimit, home to the solid gold Buddha
A long-tail boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River and through a quiet klong, offering a glimpse of local life away from tourist crowds
Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn
Return to the hotel.
Overnight in Bangkok.
Early departure to visit the Maeklong Railway Market, a truly unique experience showcasing local traditions in Southeast Asia.
Walk along the railway tracks and witness the impressive coordination of vendors as they swiftly retract their stalls to make way for the passing train.
Continue to Samut Songkhran for a canoe ride along the Grand Canal and its smaller waterways, revealing authentic rural Thai life. Arrival at the lively Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, animated by vendors selling food, flowers, plants, and local products from their boats.
Return to Bangkok.
Overnight at the hotel.
Transfer to the airport for your departure from Bangkok, marking the end of your 3-week journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand – a complete 3-week itinerary across Southeast Asia rich in local traditions and cultural heritage.
We hope this unforgettable experience has left you with lasting memories.
Thank you for traveling with QAsia Travel, and we wish you a pleasant journey home.
Accommodation throughout the tour in selected hotels or homestays
Private air-conditioned transportation as per the itinerary
English-speaking local guides for sightseeing as mentioned in the program
All sightseeing activities and entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
Domestic flights in economy class, including airport taxes
Meals as specified in the program
Bottled drinking water during guided visits (2 × 500 ml per person per day)
All applicable government taxes and service charges
International flights to and from Southeast Asia
Visa or e-visa fees
Bank charges related to payments
Personal travel insurance
Beverages during meals (soft drinks, beer, juice, etc.)
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
SIM cards and mobile data packages
Tips, personal expenses, and any services not clearly mentioned under Tour Price Includes
To help you prepare for this Vietnam – Cambodia – Thailand tour, combining cultural discovery, UNESCO World Heritage sites, nature, and local traditions, please find below some practical travel information.
This 3-week Southeast Asia tour covers Vietnam (Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta), Cambodia (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap – Angkor), and Thailand (Chiang Mai, Bangkok). The region has a tropical climate with seasonal variations.
Dry and pleasant weather
Ideal for sightseeing and cultural visits
Perfect conditions for:
UNESCO heritage sites (Hoi An, Angkor, Ayutthaya)
Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom temples
City tours in Ho Chi Minh City, Phnom Penh, and Bangkok
Cultural exploration in Chiang Mai
Mekong Delta and floating market excursions
This period offers comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, making it the most popular time for travelers.
Occasional short tropical showers, usually in the late afternoon
Greener landscapes and fewer tourists
A more authentic atmosphere
This season is well suited for travelers interested in nature, local life, and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Southeast Asia.
Lightweight and breathable clothing
Light rain jacket during the green season
Comfortable walking shoes
Modest clothing for temples (shoulders and knees covered)
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
All payments in US dollars (USD) are converted according to the exchange rate published on xe.com on the day of payment.
The tour price covers the full itinerary as described, including accommodation, meals as specified, all transfers, and the services of an English-speaking guide.
You may choose from several payment methods, depending on your preference:
Cash payment: payable directly at the QASIA TRAVEL office in Hanoi, with no additional fees
Credit cards accepted: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB
Bank transfer: payment available in euros (€) or US dollars (USD)
Online payment applications: Wise, Revolut, OnePay, or similar platforms
Any bank or transaction fees are the responsibility of the client.
Please contact QASIA TRAVEL for further details, a personalized quotation, or to book your Southeast Asia tour built around a well-balanced 3-week itinerary combining cultural discovery, nature, and local traditions.
Our team of local travel experts specializes in tailor-made journeys through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, blending cultural heritage, authentic local experiences, comfort, and refined service – carefully designed to match your budget, travel pace, and personal interests.
📩 Contact us now to plan your journey:
🌐 Website: QAsia Travel
📧 Email: voyagevietnam.qag@gmail.com
📘 Facebook: Travel in Vietnam
💬 WhatsApp: (+84) 988 555 034
0988555034
Leave a Reply