Located in the Southeast, Vietnam and Cambodia are the heart and soul of Asia. If you are looking to explore Vietnam and Cambodia comprehensively, this travel will provide all you need to know. This journey will take you to nature, culture, and cultural exploration, which promises unforgettable memories and incredible experiences for 19 days in Vietnam and Cambodia
Why should we combine Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days?
A multi-country trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days allows you to get a well-rounded perspective of the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and spectacular natural landscape of these Southeast Asia countries. Both nations are endowed with magnificent landmarks such as the St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City, and Angkor Wat Temple in Cambodia.
During this trip, you will experience the remarkable cultural convergence of Vietnam and Cambodia. Traveling through historical sites such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Vietnam and the Royal Palace in Cambodia, witnessing the local life, and tasting the specialties in these two countries is like stepping back to the past and listening to the heroic history. You will have a chance to immerse yourself in the traditional festivals, dancing along to the local performances and admiring the profess of making handicrafts. All of this provides an unforgettable experience you can have once in a lifetime!
Golden Bridge (Vietnam) and Tonle Sap Lake (Cambodia)
Both Vietnam and Cambodia are famous for stunning natural scenery. From Vietnam’s picturesque Ha Long Bay, renowned for its emerald waters and limestone cliffs, to Cambodia’s tranquil Tonle Sap Lake, the natural landscapes are utterly captivating; each step is an eye-opening experience. With the diverse landscape, you can engage in sightseeing and various outdoor activities such as trekking (perfectly in the mountainous area in the north of Vietnam), kayaking, and wildlife spotting. From all things considered, we strongly ensure your 19-day trip to Vietnam and Cambodia has something for everyone.
>>> Embark on an exciting trip to all the highlgiths of Vietnam and Cambodia with our Discovery of UNESCO Sites in Southeast Asia in 26 Days.
How to Get to Vietnam and Cambodia?
Generally speaking, traveling between Vietnam and Cambodia seems easy and enjoyable due to the various means of transportation.
Flights
To travel between Vietnam and Cambodia, you can opt for international flights. Some routes from major cities such as Hanoi-Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City-Phnom Penh or Siem Reap are easy to book, offering speed transfer. You can also book domestic flights to travel between megacities in Vietnam and Cambodia like Hanoi-Da Nang, Da Nang-Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh-Seim Reap to save time.
Buses/Taxis
Among all means of transportation, buses are the most popular, offering budget-friendly options. There are several routes for you to choose from as long as you book a ticket in advance, especially during peak season.
For those who prefer a private transfer, taxis offer an excellent experience. Grab, Be, and Xanh SM are popular and reliable names. If you want to travel on your own with flexible time, you can visit our car rental in Vietnam and Cambodia, which provides a smooth transfer and enjoyable experience.
Boat trip on Mekong River
Cruises
Another way to travel between Vietnam and Cambodia is to cruise through the Mekong River, offering an adventurous experience for visitors. Notably, the cruise often stops at small towns or villages, providing a glimpse into rural life. It’s a chance for you to get a first-hand experience in the daily activities of locals, making it a memorable part of your Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days.
What to Do in Vietnam and Cambodia?
With the duration of 19 days, you can do so many things for an immersive experience in Vietnam and Cambodia. From admiring the natural beauty, exploring the traditional customs, to enjoying tasty local cuisines and specialties, this Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days.
Admire the stunning natural landscapes
The nature of Vietnam and Cambodia is like living artwork carefully crafted by the hand of nature. In Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is the intersection of over 1600 limestone islands, forming a charming ink painting. Take a cruise through islands, explore mysterious caves such as Sung Sot Cave, or enjoy the feeling of nature by kayaking to fully immerse in the magnificent natural landscapes. In the Northeast highlands, Sapa is famous for its terraced fields winding along the mountainsides, known as the “stairway to heaven.”
In Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake is the heart of the country’s agriculture and aquaculture. You can float on a small boat to visit unique floating villages such as Kampong Phluk, where people live on stilt houses towering in the middle of the lake. Not only does it have a peaceful beauty, Tonle Sap is also a rich ecosystem, attracting nature lovers.
Majestic limestone karsts in Ha Long Bay
Immerse in ancient history
Vietnam and Cambodia are lands of rich cultural and historical traditions, where heritages tell their own story of time. To be more specific, the Hoi An ancient town in Vietnam clearly demonstrates the cultural exchange between Asian and European civilizations. Strolling on the small street, you will see sparkling golden houses, Chinese guild halls, and ancient Japanese bridges. As night falls, sparkling lanterns add charm to this town.
There is no place in Cambodia that can compare to the grandeur of the world-famous wonder of Angkor Wat. It is not only a building but also a symbol of the Khmer spirit and history. Don’t forget to explore Ta Prohm, a temple renowned for its ancient tree roots and cling tightly to its walls, creating a mysterious beauty. In addition, Bayon has a huge facial statue that will amaze you with the exquisite carving techniques of ancient people.
Angkor Wat Complex in Cambodia
Experience the vibrant urban culture
The metropolises of Vietnam and Cambodia are exciting destinations where you can experience the unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. In Vietnam, Hanoi is a cultural capital with a thousand-year history and a bustling old town where you can enjoy famous street food such as pho, bun cha, and banh mi. Don’t forget to stop by Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the fresh air in the morning or learn about history at the Temple of Literature.
In Cambodia, the capital city, Phnom Penh is home to many attractive destinations, such as the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom. In particular, an afternoon stroll along the Mekong River will bring you a different sense of place. Phnom Penh is also famous for its stylish cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local or international cuisine.
The bustling cities Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City
Relax on serene beaches
The stunning beaches in Vietnam and Cambodia are surely the perfect destinations to let your hair down after adventure time. In Vietnam, Phu Quoc is a pearl island with long beaches, clear blue water, and pristine scenery. You can participate in activities such as diving to see coral, night squid fishing or simply lying on the sand to enjoy the golden hour when the sun dips down the horizon. If you like something more exciting, go to Nha Trang, where there are many luxury resorts and exciting water sports.
Cambodia is not far behind Koh Rong, known as the “Maldives of Southeast Asia”. The beaches here are quiet, the sea water is clear and the scenery is pristine, very suitable for those looking for relaxation. In addition, Otres Beach in Sihanoukville is also the perfect choice for a romantic space, especially at sunset.
Idyllic beaches Nha Trang (Vietnam) and Koh Rong (Cambodia)
>>> Are you in love with the breathtaking white sand beaches in Vietnam and Cambodia? Escape the summer with our Vietnam and Cambodia 17 Days Luxury Beach Vacation.
Delve into the local cuisines and traditions
Every destination has its own unique culture, and experiencing the local culture is the best way to understand the land. For Vietnam exploration, you can participate in a cooking class in Hoi An to learn how to make famous dishes such as spring rolls. You can also explore markets such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City to shop and enjoy street food.
Regard Cambodia’s traditional adventure, enjoy the Apsara dance performance that will leave you mesmerized by the dancer’s grace and gorgeous costume. We suggest you stop by Psar Chaa Market in Siem Reap to shop for handicrafts, from traditional scarves to intricate sculptures.
Ben Thanh Market (Vietnam) and Psar Chaa Market (Cambodia)
Suggested Itinerary for Your 19 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia
Itinerary 1: Summer Escape to Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 Days
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival: Welcome to Vietnam, the bustling capital of Vietnam.
Day 2: Hanoi City Tour: Visit the key highlights of Hanoi such as the Ho Chi Minh Complex with Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ho Chi Minh Museum, One Pillar Pagoda, and other popular landmarks such as Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Temple of Literature.
Day 3: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise: Admire majestic stone karsts and unique stone formations in Ha Long Bay – the UNESCO-recognized heritage.
Day 4: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi: Disembark to Hanoi to continue your journey.
Day 5: Hanoi – Fly to Da Nang – Transfer to Hoi An: Visit Hoi An ancient town – the town of vibrant lanterns.
Day 6: Hoi An – Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional dishes to catch a glimpse of Vietnamese vibrant cuisine.
Day 7: Visit Hoi An Farming Village & Fishing Tour: Immerse deeper into the daily life of local people.
Day 8: Hoi An – Da Nang – Fly to Nha Trang: Continue your journey to one of the most beautiful beach cities of Vietnam.
Day 9: Free Day in Nha Trang: Relax on the pristine white sand beach.
Day 10: Nha Trang – Island & Snorkeling Tour: Enjoy the exciting water activities to escape the scorching heat of summer.
Day 11: Nha Trang – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City: Transfer to the bustling city where tradition and modernity meet.
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City Tour & Cu Chi Tunnel: Visit the significant site in the Vietnam War.
Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta: Vinh Long & Can Tho: Hop on a boat trip to indulge in the local life of people in the Mekong area.
Day 14: Cai Rang Floating Market – Chau Doc: Experience the unique floating market.
Day 15: Chau Doc – Boat trip to Phnom Penh: Cross the border to Cambodia via boat trip.
Day 16: Phnom Penh Tour: Discover the beauty of Phnom Penh with a visit to famous destinations such as the Royal Palace and Khmer National Art Museum.
Day 17: Phnom Penh – Fly to Siem Reap: Transfer to Siem Reap and trek to the summit of Bakheng Mountain to admire the view.
Day 18: Angkor Wat Complex: Trace back to the past with the Ta Prohm and Bayon Temple.
Day 19: Departure Flight
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 2: Food Adventure to Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 Days
Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
Day 2: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise: Spend one night cruise through the majestic stone karsts and enjoy the spectacular natural scenery.
Day 3: Ha Long Bay – Back to Hanoi – Overnight Train to Hue: Transfer to Hue, the former capital of Vietnam.
Day 4: Hue – Hoi An: Experience the rich cultural heritage of Hue by visiting famous destinations such as Thien Mu Pagoda, Perfume River, and the Imperial Citadel.
Day 5: Hoi An: Let your hair down in the tranquil atmosphere of the town of lanterns.
Day 6: Hoi An Cooking Class: Get to know the traditional cuisine and step into the culinary culture of Vietnam.
Day 7: Hoi An – Overnight Train from Da Nang to Nha Trang
Day 8: Nha Trang: Enjoy the idyllic white sand beach, and participate in the exciting water activities of Nha Trang.
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City: Visit some remarkable landmarks in the cities such as the Independence Palace, Saigon Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta Trip: Take a boat trip to experience the lush green scenery of the Mekong River and indulge in the local life.
Day 11: Cai Rang Floating Market – Cai Be: Visit the famous floating market in the Mekong Delta.
Day 12: Phnom Penh: Say goodbye to Vietnam and explore the beauty of Phnom Penh by visiting the Royal Palace and Psar Thmei.
Day 13: Phnom Penh – Visit Kampot: Pay a visit to one of Cambodia’s most attractive old towns where you can enjoy meals at French restaurants.
Day 14: Kampot: Explore the attractive old town deeper.
Day 15: Phnom Penh: Visit the charming capital city of Cambodia.
Day 16: Battambang: Uncover the beauty of the second-largest city and embark on a food adventure by tasting local dishes.
Day 17: Battambang – Transfer to Siem Reap
Day 18: Siem Reap: Explore Angkor Wat complex, see the Bayon Temple and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm to listen to the whisper of the past.
Day 19: Departure Flight
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 3: Fantastic 19 Days in Vietnam and Cambodia
Day 1: Ho Chi Minh Arrival
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Visit Cu Chi Tunnel: Visit the important historical sites during the Vietnam War.
Day 3: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta: Take a boat trip to enjoy the lush green scenery of the Mekong Delta.
Day 4: Mekong Delta – Ho Chi Minh City
Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City – Hoi An: Take a flight to Hoi An for an exceptional experience in the old town where history and tradition come alive.
Day 6: Hoi An City Tour: Visit the highlights of Hoi An such as the Holy Land of My Son and Japan Covered Bridge.
Day 7: Hoi An Cooking Class: Try to cook some famous Vietnamese traditional dishes on your own under the instruction of the chef.
Day 8: Hoi An – Da Nang: Transfer to the famous destination of Vietnam, which attracts thousands of visitors annually.
Day 9: Da Nang Exploration: Visit the Marble Mountains to admire the panoramic view over the city.
Day 10: Da Nang Exploration: Continue your adventure by visiting famous places such as Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge.
Day 11: Da Nang – Hanoi: Transfer to Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam.
Day 12: Hanoi City Tour: Explore several signatures of the city such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature.
Day 13: Hanoi – Ha Long Bay Cruise: Uncover the beauty of Ha Long Bay, with majestic karsts, wild cave, and unique shaped islands.
Day 14: Ha Long Bay – Hanoi
Day 15: Hanoi – Phnom Penh: Kiss goodbye to Vietnam and continue your journey to Cambodia.
Day 16: Phnom Penh Exploration: Visit the historical places of Phnom Penh to embrace the heroic past.
Day 17: Phnom Penh – Siem Reap: Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Tonle Sap Lake, and admire the rich culture with a visit to the National Museum.
Day 18: Siem Reap – Explore Angkor Wat: Discover the famous Angkor Wat Temple with Ta Prohm and Bayon Temple.
Day 19: Departure Fligh
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
How Much Does It Cost for a Trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 Days?
The cost for your 19 days in Vietnam and Cambodia varies depending on the kinds of transportation, accommodation, and travel style. Below is the breakdown of resources you might need to invest for your trip.
Transportation
International airfare to and from Vietnam or Cambodia typically ranges from $600 to $1.200/person, depending on the departure point and time of booking. The cost might be higher during peak season.
Domestically, you can travel by domestic airfare ($50-$150/trip), long-distance bus ($10-$30/trip), or taxi ($1-$5/ short trip). If you want to explore freely, renting a motorbike in Vietnam is an economical and flexible option, costing $7-$10/ day. The total cost of domestic travel for this trip is around $150-$300/person.
Accommodation
Accommodations have many options, from economy to luxury. If you choose a guesthouse or hostel, you will only spend about $10-$20/ night, equivalent to $190-$380 for 19 days. For mid-range 3-4 star hotels, the cost ranges from $30-$70/night, totaling about $570 – $1,330. If you want to experience luxury services at a resort or 5-star hotel the cost can be up to $100-$300/night, equivalent to $1,900-$5,700 for the entire trip.
Food
The cuisine in Vietnam and Cambodia is diverse and suitable for all budgets. If you love street food, each meal only costs about $1-$3, making you save a lot of money. Cheap restaurants cost from $5-$15/ meal, while fine dining restaurants can cost up to $20-$50/meal. The total cost of food for the trip ranges from $100-$800/person, depending on your style of enjoyment.
Visit fees
Popular destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Hoi An in Vietnam, Angkor Wat and Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia all have reasonable entrance fees. Entrance fees to Ha Long Bay are usually between $50 and $100/person (including a 1 or 2 days tour). Entrance fees to Angkor Wat are $37/day or $62 for 3 days tour. Tours to Tonle Sap Lake or other destinations cost between $10 and $30. Total costs for sightseeing activities will be around $200-$400/person.
Additional Costs
In addition to the main expenses, you should budget about $50-$200 for souvenir shopping, $10-$15 for buying a sim card or using mobile internet, and $50-$100 for travel insurance. These expenses are small but necessary to ensure a complete trip.
How much does it cost to visit Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days
Total estimated cost for your trip to Vietnam and Cambodia in 19 days:
- Economy travel: $1,300 – $1,800/person.
- Mid-range travel: $2,000 – $3,5000/person.
- Luxury travel: $5,000 – $8,000/person.
According to your budget and travel style, you can choose the experience that suits you best and enjoy the best time during Vietnam and Cambodia in 19-day trip.
In conclusion, a 19 days in Vietnam and Cambodia is an immersive adventure to Vietnam and Cambodia, offering a deep insight into the culture and nature of these two countries. During this trip, you can admire the spectacular scenery, explore the bustling landmarks, and trace back to the past with the historical sites. We hope this travel guide will help you plan your holiday of a lifetime to Vietnam and Cambodia. If you need further information, please keep in touch with us; our experts are always willing to assist at any time!
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