Thailand and Vietnam

The Ultimate Exploration: Thailand and Vietnam in 18 Days

  • Discover the hidden beauty of Bangkok, the capital of Thailand through a visit to the floating markets
  • Explore the prestigious temples in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, as well as learn how to care for and intellect with the very friendly elephants
  • Visit the capital, Hanoi, which still retains many ancient values, expressed through unique architecture and famous traditional dishes.
  • Admire the incredible natural landscapes in Ninh Binh, one of the best destinations deserved to visit in 2023
  • Enjoy the beauty of the islands and islets of Halong Bay, declared a Natural Heritage by UNESCO.
  • Visit the ancient city of Hoi An, one of the first commercial ports in Asia.
  • Explore the imperial city of Hue, home to ancient architectural masterpieces, known as the ancient capital of Vietnam.
  • Enjoy the rhythm of noisy life in Ho Chi Minh City, the largest city in Vietnam
  • Tour the Mekong Delta by boat and learn about the lifestyle of the local people.
From $1895 Tailor-made enquiry
The Ultimate Exploration: Thailand and Vietnam in 18 Days
ITINERARY

Program description

Expand all
DAY 1 BANGKOK – ARRIVAL

Arrival in Bangkok, welcomed by the local guide at the airport, and transferred to the city center (hotel rooms available from 2 p.m.). Enjoy free time to rest and explore the Thai capital.

Night at the hotel.

DAY 2 BANGKOK - CITY TOUR

After breakfast, begin exploring Bangkok, one of the busiest capitals in Southeast Asia.

  • Visit the Grand Palace, Thailand's most important landmark, where you will be impressed by the grandeur and majesty of the building and its throne rooms.
  • Admire the mysterious Emerald Buddha, the most revered Buddha image in the country.
  • Visit Wat Pho along the way, the largest and oldest temple in Bangkok, famous for its 45-meter reclining Buddha statue.
  • We will then visit Wat Traimit, which is well-known for the Golden Buddha.
  • Board a long-tail boat to sail along the Chao Phraya River before entering a klong, staying away from the heavily touristy areas. Stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn.

Return to the hotel to rest for the night in Bangkok.

DAY 3 BANGKOK - DAMNOEN SADUAK FLOATING MARKETS – BANGKOK

Depart early to visit the Maeklong market, located on the railway tracks very close to the train terminus. Walk along the rails to explore the vibrant market and witness how quickly the merchants fold up their stalls in preparation for the train, which is scheduled to pass around 8:30 a.m.

Afterwards, head to the small market of Samut Songkhran, where you'll embark on a beautiful canoe ride along the Grand Canal and then through smaller canals, providing an authentic glimpse of rural Asia just outside of Bangkok. The approximately one-hour ride will culminate in the heart of the Damnoen Saduak floating market.

Explore this traditional market, bustling with sellers offering a variety of products, including food, flowers, plants, and even animals.

Return to Bangkok and enjoy some free time to relax.

Overnight stay in Bangkok.

DAY 4 BANGKOK - MORNING FLIGHT TO CHIANG RAI - GOLDEN TRIANGLE

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for the exciting journey ahead.

Take the morning flight from Bangkok to Chiang Rai.

Travel to the Golden Triangle, a historic area known for opium cultivation. Situated at the crossroads of Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, the Golden Triangle is nestled amidst beautiful mountain scenery.

En route, visit the old town of Chiang Saen and its ancient temples: Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Pasak.

Next, enjoy a boat ride on the Mekong River, at the intersection of three countries.

Indulge in a leisurely lunch, savoring the flavors of the region at your own pace.

In the afternoon, delve deeper into the region's history with a visit to the Opium House. This captivating museum offers a fascinating insight into the culture of poppy cultivation and the complex history of opium in the area.

Return to Chiang Rai, where you'll check in to your accommodation and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time. Later, savor a delicious dinner before retiring for the night at the hotel, filled with memories of your day's adventures in the Golden Triangle.

DAY 5 CHIANG RAI - TRANSFER TO CHIANG MAI

In the morning, embark on a boat excursion to explore the renowned Golden Triangle, a region famous for its land borders with Myanmar and Laos, offering magnificent views of the Mekong River.

Depart for Chiang Saen, where you'll board a motorboat to cruise along the Khong River, marking the border between Thailand and Laos. Arrive at the Golden Triangle, where the three countries of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. Disembark and proceed to Chiang Mai, often referred to as the "Rose of the North".

Upon arrival, visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, an iconic site in Chiang Mai where sacred relics of Buddha are enshrined in a revered spot within the golden stupa. Legend has it that in the 14th century, an elephant chose the location for this pagoda, which sits atop a 1,000-meter hill overlooking the city. Accessible via a staircase of 300 steps adorned with two colossal nagas, this site also houses a 22-meter chedi covered in gold leaf, marking the spot where the elephant carrying Buddha's relics died. The location offers a panoramic view of Chiang Mai that is not to be missed.

Arrive in Chiang Mai and spend the night at the hotel.

DAY 6 CHIANG MAI - ELEPHANT CAMP

Today, we'll explore the lush jungle surroundings as we explore an elephant training camp nestled amidst nature. Transfer to the camp and the outskirts of Chiang Mai to visit the Baan Chang Elephant Camp. Far from being a mere tourist attraction, Baan Chang offers "responsible" activities and courses that prioritize the well-being and respect of these majestic creatures. You'll learn about elephant behavior and care practices, feeding them their favorite treats of bananas and sugarcane.

Continue the visit with an elephant ride through the verdant jungle without a basket.

Enjoy lunch featuring local specialties.

In the afternoon, partake in the magical experience of bathing elephants, a moment that will surely leave you in awe. Return to Chiang Mai and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Stay the night at Chiang Mai.

DAY 7 CHIANG MAI - CITY TOUR - DOI SUTHEP

Spend a day exploring the rich heritage of Chiang Mai, a city founded in the 13th century that reflects a blend of Lanna, Siamese, and Burmese cultures.

Begin with a walking tour of the old city, stopping at the ancient city wall, moat, and an old city gate. You'll have the opportunity to admire some of Chiang Mai's most exquisite temples, such as Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.

Next, stroll through picturesque streets lined with traditional houses and enjoy a ride in a rickshaw. Your exploration will lead you to the bustling Warorot Central Market.

In the afternoon, ascend Doi Suthep hill, offering splendid panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

You can reach the top by climbing 290 steps or taking a cable car, where a golden chedi houses the revered Buddha relics.

Your overnight stay will be in Chiang Mai.

DAY 8 CHIANG MAI - FLIGHT TO HANOI

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At the designated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Hanoi. Upon arrival in Hanoi, you will be greeted by your English-speaking guide at the airport and transferred to the hotel for check-in, subject to availability.

Enjoy free time to explore the city on your own. Accommodation in Hanoi.

DAY 9 HANOI

After breakfast, embark on a discovery of Hanoi's most notable cultural sites and historical monuments, including Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the stilt house, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Temple, and Temple of Literature - the country's first university founded in 1070. Enjoy lunch featuring "Cha Ca" (grilled fish noodles), a typical Vietnamese dish.

In the afternoon, wander through Hanoi's Old Quarter, known for its "36 streets and 36 alleys," where streets are named after the predominant products sold there, such as Paper Street, Sugar Street, Silver Street, etc. Indulge in a cup of egg coffee or a glass of beer.

Return to the hotel for accommodation.

DAY 10 HANOI - NINH BINH

Departure towards Ninh Binh – a land of limestone rocks, sugarloaf mountains, and rice fields inundated by rivers and lakes year-round. After a 2-hour drive, we arrive in Ninh Binh province. Board a boat on the Ngo Dong River for a ride through Tam Coc, also known as the "Halong Bay on land." This winding river meanders through rice fields, sugarloaf mountains, and passes under three caves at the foot of limestone peaks.

Next, we continue our visit to Mua Cave (Hang Mua in Vietnamese), climbing 486 stone steps to the top. This bell-shaped mountain offers a panoramic view of the Tam Coc region.

Lastly, we will visit Hoa Lu – chosen as the ancient capital of Dai Co Viet (the old name of Vietnam), with the vestiges of temples from the Dinh and Le dynasties.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.

DAY 11 NINH BINH - HALONG BAY

Departure towards Halong, Vietnam's most beautiful bay and one of Asia's most magical landscapes. Embark aboard a traditional junk boat, greeted by the crew, and set sail for a magnificent cruise through the bay. Visit Bai Tu Long (the northern part of Halong Bay):

  • Admire the picturesque islands and islets with various shapes (veil, dog, rooster, incense...).
  • Explore the splendid caves of Halong Bay, including Thien Canh Son, home to stalagmites and stalactites dating back thousands of years.
  • Continue the cruise to Cap La, where you can kayak and swim in the sublime waters of the bay (weather permitting).
  • As the evening falls, relax on the upper deck of the junk.
  • Participate in an onboard cooking demonstration, learning to prepare nems or spring rolls.
  • Enjoy lunch and dinner onboard.

Enjoy free time in the afternoon for personal rest and relaxation: card games, night fishing...

Overnight onboard.

DAY 12 HALONG BAY - HANOI - FLIGHT TO HOI AN

Early in the morning, wake up to witness the sunrise emerging over the bay's islands. Take a boat ride to discover deserted beaches and the picturesque Ca tunnel, Ba Ham Lake. Continue the cruise to the lesser-known parts of Halong Bay.

Lunch on the junk, then disembark and return to Hanoi.

In the afternoon, catch a flight to Da Nang, a central city in Central Vietnam. Upon arrival, be greeted by a driver and transferred to Hoi An, a quaint ancient town located about 30 kilometers south of Da Nang.

Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 13 HOI AN: CITY AND COUNTRYSIDE TOUR

The morning is dedicated to exploring the ancient port city of Hoi An. Take a stroll through the old town to visit must-see attractions: the Fujian Assembly Hall, Phuc Thanh Pagoda, the Japanese Covered Bridge built in 1593, old alleyways, museums, and ancient wooden houses dating back hundreds of years.

In the afternoon, embark on a bicycle excursion to discover the countryside of Hoi An, where rice paddies, small villages, shrimp farms, and vegetable gardens abound. Stop along the way at the village of Cam Chau, visit a lantern-making factory, and learn about the traditional lantern-making process: bamboo weaving, dyeing, papermaking, followed by an introduction to traditional techniques.

Return to Hoi An by late afternoon. Overnight in Hoi An.

DAY 14 HOI AN - HUE

Next, travel by road to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, via the Hai Van Pass (Pass of the Ocean Clouds) and the beautiful Lang Co Beach, where we'll make a stop for photos. Also, stop at the picturesque roadside cemeteries: known as "Ghost Villages," these cemeteries contain sets of sculpted castle-like tombs of various Asian architectures, resembling luxurious cities from afar.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in, subject to availability. In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Citadel, where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled from 1802 to 1945, its Royal Museum, and the exotic Dong Ba Market. Return to the hotel for the night in Hue.

DAY 15 HUE - FLIGHT TO HO CHI MINH CITY

Today, we'll take a boat trip on the Perfume River to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, the most beautiful and visited pagoda in Hue, or the tranquil Tu Hieu Pagoda, where the tombs of eunuchs from the Nguyen Dynasty are located. Depending on the time, there is a possibility to witness the monks' prayer session. We continue with the Royal Tomb of King Tu Duc. Closer to Tu Duc's tomb, stop at Thuy Xuan village, a traditional incense-making village, where you'll have the opportunity to take colorful photos. Lastly, we'll visit the Royal Tomb of King Khai Dinh and admire its architecture inspired by French design.

At the designated time, transfer to the airport for the flight to Ho Chi Minh City. Upon arrival at the airport in Ho Chi Minh City, you'll be greeted by your English-speaking guide and transferred to the hotel for check-in, subject to availability.

Stay the night and get ready for the next engergetic morning.

DAY 16 HO CHI MINH CITY

We begin our exploration of the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh, still known as Saigon by many locals. We'll visit Notre Dame Cathedral and the old Post Office, the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Headquarters - the former Central City Hall, the most beautiful colonial building in the city, and the Traditional Medicine Museum of Vietnam: a treasure trove of documents, objects, and instruments related to local medicine. Return to the city center and stroll from the City Hall to the Opera House and Dong Khoi Street (if time permits).

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 17 HO CHI MINH CITY - MEKONG DELTA

Depart for the Mekong Delta, a land of half land and half water in the southernmost part of the country.

Arrive in Ben Tre, a bustling city located in the heart of the northern river arms. Take a boat ride along the rivers to reach Mo Cay, a small rural area still relatively untouched by tourism, well-known for its coconut trade and production of coconut-related products: coconut candy, coconut thread, activated charcoal from coconut...

Take a bike or Xe loi (motorized tricycle) ride on the lush green island covered with coconut palms. Away from mass tourism, the route leads you along small paths, under the shade of coconut trees, offering a particularly poetic landscape. Stop at farms to observe the making of coconut candies and brooms.

Continue with a rowing boat ride through the creeks surrounded by water palms, immersing yourself in the daily life of the delta. Visit Mr. Van's traditional house, taste local specialties made by his wife: coconut jam, honey tea, and pollen... and have beautiful encounters with the local population.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 18 HO CHI MINH CITY - DEPARTURE

Enjoy a free morning in Ho Chi Minh City until the designated time, then transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport for your international departure flight.

Until next time!

ACTIVITY

Optional activities

Tour price

$1895per person
This price, calculated for four people staying in standard hotels, may vary based on: • Travel period • Number of travelers • Chosen services
The price includes
  • Accommodation for the entire circuit, in hotels or with locals
  • Travel according to the program by private car
  • English-speaking guide for the visits mentioned in the program
  • All activities mentioned in the program, including entrance fees to tourist sites
  • Economy class domestic flights with airport taxes included
  • Meals mentioned in the program
  • Bottle of water during guided tours (2 x 500ml/traveler/day)
  • Government taxes currently in force (VAT, etc.)
The price excludes
  • International flights from your home
  • Visa fees, payable directly at the airport customs (see VISA)
  • Bank fees related to payment
  • Personal insurance
  • Personal beverages during meals: beer, Coca-Cola, fruit juice, etc.
  • Other meals not specified in the program
  • SIM card and mobile plans
  • Tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned in the "Our Included Services" section
SERVICE

Services for this trip

Your accommodation:
Your cruise on Halong Bay:

Tailor-made enquiry

Please leave us a quote request, and our travel advisor will provide you with more detailed information and a quote.
Your travel plan
Number of participants
Your message
Your contacts
Name *
Nationality
Email *
Phone number
Add-on activities:
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the ideal duration for visiting Vietnam?

Two weeks is the ideal duration to explore all the must-see attractions of Vietnam without rushing. Such a duration will allow you to appreciate some of the most beautiful and iconic landscapes of the country, such as the legendary Halong Bay, the magnificent terraced rice fields inhabited by various ethnic minorities, or the lush Mekong Delta.

For those who like to delve deeper into a region such as the authentic Northern mountains, embark on a beach extension, or visit Cambodia, plan an additional 5 to 7 days.

2. What kind of transportation is included in those journeys?

Those tours typically include a variety of transportation options to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. Common modes of transportation include private cars or minivans for city tours and transfers, domestic flights for long distances between major cities, and boats for exploring places like Halong Bay in Vietnam or the islands in Thailand. Public transportation such as trains and buses may also be used for certain parts of the tour. Some tours offer the unique experience of traveling by tuk-tuk or cyclo for short distances within cities. All transportation options are chosen to maximize convenience and provide a seamless travel experience.

3. What is the best time of year to book Thailand and Vietnam journeys?

The best time to book those tours is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. During this period, both countries enjoy pleasant weather with less rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. In Thailand, this is also the peak tourist season, especially in places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the southern islands. In Vietnam, the weather is favorable for exploring the northern regions like Hanoi and Halong Bay, as well as the central and southern parts. Booking during this period ensures you have the best conditions to enjoy your tour.

4. Are Thailand and Vietnam adventures suitable for families?

Yes, those itineraries are suitable for families and can be an excellent choice for a memorable vacation. Both countries offer a variety of family-friendly activities, from cultural experiences and historical sites to beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. In Thailand, families can enjoy the bustling streets of Bangkok, the cultural richness of Chiang Mai, and the serene beaches of Phuket or Krabi. In Vietnam, children will love exploring the caves of Halong Bay, the ancient town of Hoi An, and the vibrant city life of Ho Chi Minh City. Many tour operators also provide tailored itineraries to ensure that activities are suitable for all ages.

5. Do I need a visa to visit Thailand?

For tourists from the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and most EU countries, a Thailand Tourist Visa is issued by a Thai Embassy, Consulate, or e-visa system for tourism purposes, unlike the 60-day visa exemption (extendable by 30 days) granted on arrival. Work is not allowed.

  • Single-Entry Tourist Visa: Valid for 3 months, allows a 60-day stay (extendable by 30 days), available from Thai embassies/consulates or e-visa portal. Each person applies individually.
  • Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa: Valid for 6 months, permits multiple 60-day stays (each extendable by 30 days), obtainable through the same channels.
  • Requirements: Passport (6+ months validity), application form, photo, onward travel proof, financial proof (10,000 THB/person or 20,000 THB/family), and accommodation proof. 
6. What are the must-visit sites in Thailand?

Thailand attracts tourists not only for its rich and diverse culture but also for its magnificent landscapes. Begin your journey in the Central region of Thailand with Bangkok, the Thai capital where you can savor delicious dishes and experience the bustling city life. Not far from Bangkok, you'll discover the historic city of Ayutthaya, steeped in history, as well as the lush national parks in the Kanchanaburi region.

Moving up to the North, you'll visit Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. This region offers travelers breathtaking landscapes with terraced rice fields and opportunities to meet welcoming minority ethnic groups.

The Southern region, a favorite of many travelers, is where you'll find places like Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui, each boasting white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and incredible underwater landscapes.

7. When is the best time to visit Thailand?

The best time to visit Thailand, without a doubt, is from November to April. It's Thailand's dry season, characterized by sunny days and minimal rainfall. The weather is pleasant during this period, with temperatures ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and also for a beach vacation in the beautiful southern beach resorts such as Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and more.

8. When are the best times to visit Vietnam?

Vietnam experiences a diverse climate from north to south, owing to its varied topography and the country's considerable length (2000 km from north to south). When one region is humid, cold, or rainy, the other can be pleasantly sunny in contrast. Based on our experience, the optimal time to visit Vietnam is from October to April.

Within this timeframe, the best months are October to November and March to May. During these periods, the weather remains pleasant, and, additionally, they are the least rainy months of the year in Vietnam. While July and August can be a bit hot (30-35 degrees Celsius), Halong Bay typically enjoys sunny weather. You'll also have the opportunity to witness the region adorned with endless terraced green or yellow rice fields.

Regarding the southern region, despite it being the rainy season, precipitation usually lasts for only an hour or two each day, with the rest of the day being sunny. If you already have a specific timeframe in mind for your trip (winter, summer, etc.), please inform us, and we can provide guidance on the most favorable months.

9. What airlines offer flights to Vietnam?

Vietnam is well connected to major international airlines. If you're traveling from the USA, the UK, Canada, or Australia, you can choose from airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific, which offer flights to Vietnam’s major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, often with layovers in major hubs like Doha, Dubai, or Singapore.

From the USA and Canada, popular airlines include ANA, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, and EVA Air, which usually include layovers in cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, or Taipei.

If you’re departing from the UK or Australia, you can also explore direct or one-stop options with British Airways, Qantas, or Malaysia Airlines, which typically stop in Southeast Asian hubs.

For the best deals, visit airline websites directly or use flight comparison tools like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak.

10. Are insurance policies included in the rate?

No, insurance is not included in our package rates, and clients will need to purchase it separately. These insurance policies are typically affordable and easy to obtain. Many of our clients often choose providers like Allianz Global Assistance, Travel Guard, World Nomads, or AXA Travel Insurance.

Additionally, by paying for your plane ticket or travel invoice with a credit card, you may already have some travel insurance coverage provided by your bank or card issuer. It’s worth checking with them to see what coverage may be included.

11. Which airline operates domestic flights, and what is the baggage weight allowance?

You will be traveling with Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways, the two best airlines in the country. We do not offer low-cost airlines to ensure a smooth experience on-site.

Regarding baggage, you will have 7 to 12 kilograms of carry-on luggage and 20 to 23 kilograms of checked baggage, depending on the chosen airline. Each extra kilogram will cost you from 3 to 5 USD, payable directly during your check-in.

12. Can I make changes to the itinerary?

Yes, it is entirely possible to make changes to the provided itinerary. We specialize in private and tailor-made trips, and our advisors will be able to adjust the program according to your every wish.

13. When is the deadline for booking the trip?

We do not impose a deadline for booking, but it is advisable that you book both the flight tickets and the tour as early as possible. In fact, the earlier we make the reservations, the better the services, considering that the best providers may have limited availability. Therefore, our clients often book their trips 4-6 months in advance.

14. How can I book my trip?

If you agree with the itinerary proposed by one of our advisors, please send us an email to confirm the reservation of the tour with our agency. Your advisor will then provide you with the booking documents, including:

  • A reservation form containing detailed information about your booked tour, as well as your personal details and contact information to be completed. You will need to return the form with these details duly filled out, which will be used for the organization of your trip. Please also send us a scan of your passports.

  • A travel invoice requesting a deposit payment of 25% of the total price.

The organization of your trip will be confirmed upon receipt of the completed form and once the deposit is in our possession. We will also send you a travel contract that certifies the details of your trip, including the duration, travel dates, deposit paid, and your contact information."

15. What is the price of the trip?

The price displayed on our website does not include international flights and is calculated based on 4 people with standard hotels. Our tours are private with custom services, so the price varies depending on the travel period, the selected service category, and especially the number of travelers. Please contact us for a detailed quote for your trip.

123
Have more questions? Contact us
TESTIMONIALS
What our customers say about us

Comments

No comments yet - be the first to comment!
Leave a comment
captcha Refresh
OTHER
More tour ideas
Contact us Get a free quote
Contact WhatsApp