Welcome to an extraordinary travel adventure through two mesmerizing Southeast Asian destinations – Vietnam and Thailand. These countries boast a captivating blend of ancient traditions, vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisines, making them irresistible to wanderlust-filled hearts.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the mystical beauty of Halong Bay, the charming lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An, the vibrant metropolis of Bangkok, the cultural heart of Chiang Mai, and the serene beaches of Phuket, we will provide you with carefully crafted itineraries that combine the best of both countries. Get ready for an unforgettable exploration, and immerse yourself in the essence of Vietnam and Thailand in 17 days!
Why spend 17 days in Vietnam and Thailand?
Vietnam and Thailand are absolute must-visit destinations for those who enjoy traveling, due to their unique blend of captivating experiences, rich cultural heritage, and natural wonders. Vietnam offers a tapestry of enchanting landscapes, from the stunning Halong Bay with its limestone karsts to the vibrant floating markets of the Mekong Delta. Immerse yourself in Vietnam’s history as you explore the ancient town of Hoi An or the imperial city of Hue. In Thailand, the bustling streets of Bangkok beckon with their ornate temples, bustling markets, and tantalizing street food. Discover the tranquility of Chiang Mai’s temples and immerse yourself in local traditions. Both countries offer pristine beaches where you can unwind and soak up the sun, such as Phuket in Thailand or the idyllic coastal towns of Vietnam. The warmth and friendliness of the locals in both countries add an extra layer of charm to your journey. Whether you seek cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, or simply a chance to relax in paradise, Vietnam and Thailand offer an irresistible allure that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Southeast Asia.
The best time for 17 days in Vietnam and Thailand
Generally, the ideal time to visit both countries is during their dry seasons, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploration.
Vietnam Weather
For Vietnam, the months from November to April offer the best weather, with cooler temperatures in the north. This period allows for comfortable travel throughout the country, including visits to Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Hue, and Saigon. However, it’s worth noting that regions like Hanoi and Halong Bay can experience chilly weather during December and January.
Thailand Weather
In Thailand, the dry season runs from November to February, making it an excellent time to explore destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. The temperatures are generally milder and more comfortable, allowing for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
It’s important to consider that these regions can experience high tourist traffic during peak seasons, especially around major holidays and festivals. If you prefer to avoid crowds, you may consider planning your trip during shoulder seasons, such as March to May or September to October, when the weather is still favorable, and tourist numbers are relatively lower.
Ultimately, the best time for your Vietnam-Thailand travel in 17 days depends on your personal preferences, tolerance for weather conditions, and desired activities. Check out our published blog posts to read more in detail about the best time to visit Vietnam, as well as the most ideal time for a Thailand trip.
Suggested Itineraries for 17 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
Itinerary 1: Discover the Boundless Beauty of Vietnam & Thailand in 17 Days
Day 1 – Hanoi arrival.
Day 2 – Hanoi City Tour: visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Museum of Ethnology, Temple of Literature, Ngoc Son Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake. Take a cyclo ride through the Old Quarter.
Day 3 – Hanoi – Transfer to Halong Bay & Cruise 2 days 1 night.
Day 4 – Halong Bay – Return to Hanoi – Flight to Danang – Transfer to Hoi An: Visit Bai Tu Long Bay before flying to Da Nang to get to Hoi An.
Day 5 – My Son Sanctuary & Hoi An City Tour: Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Pagoda.
Day 6 – Hoi An – Danang – Hue: Visit Danang Beach, Cham Museum, Hue Imperial Citadel, and Dong Ba Market.
Day 7 – Hue City Tour: check out the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda, and tombs of Kings Ming Mang and Khai Dinh, then fly to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City).
Day 8 – Saigon City Tour: visit Cu Chi Tunnels, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Presidential Palace, War Remnants Museum Ben Thanh Market.
Day 9 – Saigon – Mekong Delta Excursion: Explore Cai Be floating market, and drive to Can Tho.
Day 10 – Mekong Delta – Return to Saigon – Flight to Bangkok: Visit Cai Rang floating market before leaving for Bangkok.
Day 11 – Bangkok City Tour: Ride on the Chao Phraya River, stop by Wat Arun, Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Traimit, and Wat Pho.
Day 12 – Bangkok – Flight to Chiang Rai: Visit the Golden Triangle, ride on a boat trip along the Mekong River and Mae Khong River, and visit Mae Sai town.
Day 13 – Chiang Rai – Transfer to Chiang Mai: Visit Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Bor Srang, and San Kamphaeng.
Day 14 – Chiang Mai – Flight to Phuket.
Day 15 – Free day in Phuket: Explore Patong Beach, Karon Beach, Kata Noi Beach, or Nai Harn Beach.
Day 16 – Free day in Phuket: Visit Phuket Aquarium, Splash Jungle Water Park, Phuket Trickeye Museum for some family activities.
Day 17 – Phuket – Departure flight.
>>> See the full tour itinerary at Discover the Boundless Beauty Vietnam – Thailand in 17 Days.
Itinerary 2: Authentic Experience in Vietnam – Thailand in 17 Days
Day 1 – Bangkok arrival.
Day 2 – Bangkok City Tour: Visit Wat Traimit, Wat Arun, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew.
Day 3 – Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – Bangkok – Flight to Chiang Rai: Visit Damnoen Saduak floating market, River Kwai.
Day 4 – Chiang Rai – Golden Triangle Excursion: Visit the Karen village, climb Doi Mae Salong Mountain, and travel to Doi Tung.
Day 5 – Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai: Explore the White Temple, Meow Hill tribe village, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Day 6 – Chiang Mai – Elephant Nature Park: visit Chiang Mai Elephant Nature Park, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Chiang Man, Wat Jet Yot.
Day 7 – Chiang Mai – Flight to Saigon.
Day 8 – Saigon City tour: Visit Cu Chi Tunnels, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon Post Office, the Reunification Palace, Cholon district, and Emperor Jade Pagoda.
Day 9 – Saigon – Mekong Delta Excursion: Explore Cai Be floating market and Binh Hoa Phuoc Islet.
Day 10 – Mekong Delta – Return to Saigon – Flight to Danang – Transfer to Hoi An: Stop by Can Tho Floating Market before flying to Danang.
Day 11 – My Son Sanctuary & Hoi An City Tour: Visit My Son Holy Land, Hoi An Ancient Town, Thanh Ha pottery village.
Day 12 – Hoi An – Hue.
Day 13 – Hue Imperial Citadel – Flight to Hanoi: Visit Perfume River, Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Complex, and the Imperial City of Hue.
Day 14 – Hanoi City tour: Visit Tran Quoc Pagoda, West Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, History Museum, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, and the bustling Old Quarter.
Day 15 – Hanoi – Transfer to Ha Long Bay & Cruise 2 days 1 night.
Day 16 – Halong – Return to Hanoi.
Day 17 – Hanoi – Departure flight.
>>> See the full tour itinerary at A Mesmerizing & Authentic Experience in Vietnam and Thailand in 17 Days.
Itinerary 3: 17-Day Honeymoon Trip to Vietnam & Thailand
Day 1 – Bangkok arrival.
Day 2 – Bangkok – City tour & Evening Cruise: Visit Wat Suthat, Wat Pho, Lak Muang, Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace. After lunch by Chao Phraya River, take a ferry to Wat Arun and Wat Traimit.
Day 3 – Bangkok – Damnoen Saduak Floating Market: Head to Ratchaburi Province, stop by Mae Klong Market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market.
Day 4 – Bangkok – Flight to Chiang Mai: Stay on the luxury Chiang Mai Riverside by Ping River, visit FAE Elephant Hospital, Kaad Thung Kwain Market, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang, Chiang Mai Women’s Correctional Institute, and Night Bazaar market.
Day 5 – Chiang Mai – City tour: Head to Mount Doi Suthep, drive up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, descent to Wat Palad, explore Chedi Luang Temple, Wat Phra Singh, and Wat Suan Dok.
Day 6 – Chiang Mai – Elephant Day Care at Patara Farm: Visit Patara Elephant Farm and learn to care for elephants, an important animal of Thai country.
Day 7 – Chiang Mai – Hot Balloon Ride – Flight to Hanoi.
Day 8 – Hanoi City Tour – Home-hosted dinner: Explore Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, One Pillar Pagoda, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Ngoc Son Temple. Ride a cyclo through the French Quarter, visit the Vietnam History Museum, Metropole Legend Hotel, and the Opera House.
Day 9 – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Bai Tu Long Bay: Visit Cong Do Island, Thien Canh Son Cave, and sail to Hon Co Island.
Day 10 – Bai Tu Long Bay – Hanoi – Flight to Da Nang/ Hoi An Morning: Sail to Vung Vieng before flying to Da Nang and leaving for Hoi An.
Day 11 – Hoi An City Tour: Ride along the Thu Bon River, visit Chua Ong Pagoda, Tan Ky Ancient House, Fujian Assembly Hall, Japanese Covered Bridge, Precious Heritage Museum, and Cam Thanh Village.
Day 12 – Hoi An – Leisure day: shopping at tailor shops, visiting the local market, join a cooking class in Hoi An.
Day 13 – Hoi An – Da Nang – Flight to Phu Quoc Island.
Day 14 – Phu Quoc Island – Leisure day: Rest on the beach, relax at the resort spa, and watch the sunset on the island.
Day 15 – Phu Quoc Island – Leisure day: Experience yoga, tai chi, and qi gong classes at the resort.
Day 16 – Phu Quoc Island – Leisure day: Enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach with a special menu.
Day 17 – Phu Quoc – Ho Chi Minh City – Departure.
>>> See the full tour itinerary at A Journey of Love to Vietnam and Thailand in 17 Days.
Travel Tips for 17 Days in Vietnam and Thailand
Package the Essentials
- Lightweight Clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climates of Vietnam and Thailand. Opt for lightweight tops, t-shirts, shorts, and skirts made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Consider packing a few long-sleeved shirts or pants for protection against the sun and mosquitoes in the evenings.
- Modest Attire: Both Vietnam and Thailand have cultural norms, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. Pack modest attire that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect. A scarf or sarong can come in handy for covering up when needed.
- Comfortable Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes or sneakers for exploring cities and attractions. Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for beach days or casual outings.
- Weather Protection: Be prepared for different weather conditions. Pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected showers. A compact travel umbrella can be useful for sun protection as well. Don’t forget to bring a hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
- Travel Essentials: Remember to pack essential items like travel adapters, a universal charger, a power bank, and any necessary medications. A small first-aid kit with basic supplies can also come in handy. It’s a good idea to carry a photocopy of important documents like your passport and travel insurance information.
- Smart packing: Remember to check the baggage restrictions and weight limits imposed by your airlines. It’s generally a good idea to pack light and leave room for souvenirs or items you may purchase during your trip.
Enjoy Vietnamese and Thai cuisine
Banh mi – street food loved by every Vietnamese
- Embrace Street Food: Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the vibrant street food scenes of both countries. Keep an eye out for popular dishes like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), pad Thai, and green curry. Check out our recommendations at Uncovering the Delights of Hanoi Street Food, or Thai Street Food – Unveiling the Spice and Soul of Thailand.
- Try Local Specialties: Each region in Vietnam and Thailand has its own unique dishes and culinary traditions. Be adventurous and sample local specialties like bun cha in Hanoi, banh xeo in Hoi An, khao soi in Chiang Mai, or mango sticky rice in Bangkok.
- Spice Level and Flavors: Vietnamese and Thai cuisine are known for their bold flavors and spices. Be prepared for a range of tastes, including sweet, sour, spicy, and savory. If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, start with milder options and gradually increase the spice level to suit your palate.
- Fresh and Seasonal Ingredients: Both countries prioritize fresh ingredients in their cuisine. Take advantage of the abundance of fresh herbs, vegetables, and tropical fruits. Enjoy dishes prepared with fragrant lemongrass, basil, mint, lime, and chili for an explosion of flavors.
- Dining Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with local dining customs. In Vietnam, it’s common to share dishes with others at the table, while in Thailand, using a spoon and fork is the norm. Don’t be shy to use your hands when appropriate, such as when eating sticky rice or fresh spring rolls.
- Hygiene Precautions: While street food is a highlight, it’s essential to prioritize hygiene. Look for busy stalls with high turnover, as this indicates fresh ingredients and food prepared on the spot. Ensure that the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Drinking bottled water or freshly squeezed juices is advisable to stay hydrated.
The diverse itineraries presented in this blog post have showcased the incredible range of experiences awaiting you throughout 17 days in Vietnam and Thailand. From cultural immersion to nature and adventure, and from beach relaxation to vibrant city exploration, these travel routes offer a taste of the magic that these countries have to offer. If you have any questions or need further help in crafting a personalized travel experience that 100% suits your preferences, feel free to contact us to receive one-on-one assistance in trip planning. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure through Vietnam and Thailand – your dream journey awaits!
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