How Long to Travel Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam?

Visiting Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam all in one trip is a fantastic idea! To take in the must-see highlights, you need to set aside at least 14 days.

On a 14-day Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam trip, you can spend the first 6 days exploring Vietnam—starting in the capital of Hanoi, then wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, and finally going to Saigon. Next, make your way to Cambodia for days 7 to 9, where you'll visit the incredible Angkor Wat and the peaceful Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap. Finally, finish your adventure with days 10 to 14 in Thailand—including visits to bustling Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the beaches of Phuket.

If you've got a bit more time, why not go further? Add places like the Golden Triangle in Thailand, Sapa and the imperial city of Hue in Vietnam, or Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh, and Koh Rong. You can even stretch it into an epic 27-day Indochina journey that includes Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar!

In this guide, we'll break down how much time you'll need and how to make the most of it, and then you can plan this dream Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam trip with confidence and ease!

14-Day is a Must for the Classic Thailand Cambodia and Vietnam Tour

To visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, you’ll need at least 14 days. A 14-day tour is the classic experience for a deep dive into Southeast Asia. Here’s the itinerary that will take you through the must-see places.

Day 1-6: In Vietnam to visit Hanoi, Hoi An and Saigon
Arriving in Hanoi, you’ll spend the first 6 days for a Vietnam tour. Hanoi is a great introduction to Vietnamese culture with beautiful historic sites like the 1,400-year-old Tran Quoc Pagoda, and stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake to see the Tortoise Tower perched on the water.

The history of modern Vietnam is best understood with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a testament to the man who played a significant role in shaping the country. While making your way through the city, there will also be chances to shop in the Old Quarter Markets and try the delicious local street food.

Then it’s on to Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved architecture, which reflects a fusion of indigenous and foreign influences over several centuries. There will be time to explore the quaint streets with their colorful lanterns and dine by the riverside.

The last stop in Vietnam is Saigon where the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see. Used by guerrillas in the Vietnam War, the tunnels stand as a war remnant, offering insights into the harsh conditions and dedication of the Vietnamese soldiers.

8 Days Hanoi, Hoi An, and Saigon Tour

Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Hoi An - Saigon

Day 7-9: In Siem Reap to visit Angkor Wat
From day 7 to day 9, you'll have your specialized Cambodia tour. Angkor Wat in Siem Reap is one of the most spectacular sites in all of Southeast Asia. The massive temple complex is the largest religious structure in the world filled with intricate bas-reliefs and surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

Siem Reap also has the beautiful Tonle Sap Lake. The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, the lake is home to numerous floating villages where houses, schools, and markets are built on stilts. A boat tour not only offers insights into local life and traditions but also a chance to glimpse the local biodiversity in bird and fish species.

3 Days Siem Reap Tour with Tonle Sap Lake

Siem Reap

Day 10-14: In Thailand for Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket
The last day 10 to day 14 is your Thailand tour for an end. Arriving in Thailand, the first stop is the capital Bangkok. The premier attraction there is the opulent Grand Palace. You’ll have to make sure to dress modestly, but inside the palace grounds is the stunning Emerald Buddha and a rich array of temples. Wat Arun, known as the Temple of Dawn, is another iconic temple located on the Chao Phraya River. The temple is renowned for its stunning architectural design and is easily visited as part of a boat tour of the Chao Phraya River.

Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand, is the next stop. Known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples, and stunning natural surroundings, it is home to Thailand’s highest peak in Doi Inthanon National Park. There you can visit the Royal Twin Pagodas, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy the cool climate.

The old city of Chiang Mai features a vibrant Night Bazaar where you can shop for local crafts and indulge in delicious street food. Wandering through the old city is also a chance to explore its ancient temples, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Chiang Man.

Phuket is famous for its beaches and a great place to relax and explore. Patong Beach is known for its golden sands, water activities, and vibrant nightlife, and Karon Viewpoint, known as Three Beaches Hill, offers beautiful panoramic views. A boat tour is a great way to explore more of Phuket’s natural environment. The breathtaking landscapes of Phang Nga Bay are famous for their limestone cliffs and emerald-green waters, and nearby Phi Phi islands are rich with vibrant marine life.

16 Days In-depth Thailand Tour with Phuket

Bangkok - Kanchanaburi - Ayutthaya - Chiang Rai - Golden Triangle - Chiang Mai - Phuket

If You Have More Time, Add These Tourist Destinations in Thailand

If you have more time for your tour, Thailand has many other destinations worth visiting. Among them, exploring the Golden Triangle is a fascinating experience. The Golden Triangle is where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet. You can visit the Opium Museum, take a boat trip on the Mekong River, and explore the historical significance of the area.

The stunning Railay Beach in Krabi is known for its limestone cliffs and clear waters, or you can travel to Koh Phangan to take part in its famous Full Moon Party. For more outdoor activities, the island of Koh Tao is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. An extra day or two there is enough to explore the clear waters and see the diverse marine life. Read more on how many days in Thailand.

Kayaking in Railay Beach Krabi

If You Have More Time, Add These Tourist Destinations in Vietnam

Sapa, in Vietnam, is worth adding a few days to visit. This mountainous region in the northern part of Vietnam is known for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages. Adventurous travelers can trek to the summit of Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Vietnam is also home to many stunning beaches in the central part of the country. In Da Nang is My Khe beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline with white sands and clear waters. You can stop at Lang Co Beach on the way Hue, another great addition to a Vietnam trip. Lang Co is perfect for a tranquil escape before the bustling Hue where you can soak up local history. There you’ll find the Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Forbidden Purple City, temples, pavilions, and the impressive Ngo Mon Gate. Don’t forget to try Hue’s unique local cuisine, Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) is a must for any visitor. Read more on things to do in Vietnam from north to south.

Sapa landscape Vietnam

If You Have More Time, Add These Tourist Destinations in Cambodia

Adding a few days to see more of Cambodia would let you spend some time in the capital, Phnom Penh. There you can explore the riverside area along the Tonle Sap River with its relaxing atmosphere, restaurants, and cafes. You can also visit the Royal Palace, a stunning complex with beautiful architecture, and the Silver Pagoda, home to a golden Buddha statue.

One of the most rejuvenating places to visit in Cambodia is Koh Rong Island. Located near Sihanoukville, the island is famous for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It has the full range of tropical island activities from snorkeling and diving to jungle trekking, and has an exciting nightlife with beach parties and bars. Read on more things to do in Cambodia! 

Royal Palace full of visitors in Phnom Penh

If You Have More Time, Take the 27-Days Panorama Trip of Indochina

For the ultimate tour of Indochina, try the 27-Days Panorama Trip of Indochina. This tour includes the five most popular countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. On this epic trip, you’ll start in Vietnam with a visit to Hanoi, then take a relaxing boat cruise of Halong Bay, wind down on a pristine beach after exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, and finally see the highlights of Saigon and the Mekong Delta.

The next stop is Cambodia to see the unmatched Angkor Wat and ancient capital Angkor Thom. You’ll see the traditional culture of the local floating village at Tonle Sap Lake, and take in surrounding natural beauty. Then transfer to Laos to see the UNESCO-protected town of Luang Prabang, a place of deep cultural and historic importance. After that is a Luang Say cruise up the Mekong River before heading off to Thailand.In Thailand, you see beautiful temples in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, plus visit the amazing Golden Triangle where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

After seeing the vibrant Bangkok, the final leg of the journey is to Myanmar to visit Amarapura, the ancient capital in Mandalay. Then it is on to Bagan, the historical and cultural marvel known as the Valley of a Thousand Temples. Finally is a tour of the highlights of Yangon, the largest city and former capital of Myanmar. There you’ll see sites like the Shwedagon Pagoda with its golden stupa, and Karaweik Palace, a distinctive landmark shaped like a mythical bird and a great place for local food and cultural performances.

26 Days Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam Relaxing Tour

Bangkok - Mandalay - Inle Lake - Bagan - Yangon - Chiang Mai - Chiang Rai - Luang Prabang - Vientiane - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - Phu Quoc

Conclusion

Whether you have two weeks or a month to spare, visiting Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam together offers an array of experiences. From ancient temples to bustling cities and serene beaches, each destination contributes to a well-rounded and unforgettable travel experience. Contact us to start planning the best tour to suit your preferences and the time you have available, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indochina.