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Vietnam & Cambodia: 15-Day Experiential Route from Hanoi to Siem Reap (20 Dec 2025 – 3 Jan 2026)

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Day 1: Arrive Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 20, 2025

8:00am

Hotel check-in & drop bags

Settle into your hotel in the Old Quarter and freshen up after your flight so you can explore comfortably.
USD0, 1h0m

9:00am

Breakfast — Pho Gia Truyen (Old Quarter)

Classic Hanoi pho served in a traditional setting; a perfect first taste of northern Vietnamese cuisine. Open typically 7:00–21:00 but check seasonal hours.
USD3, 45m

10:00am

Walk Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple

A gentle orientation walk in the heart of Hanoi to see the lake, red bridge and temple — great for photos and local life.
USD2, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Bun Cha Hương Liên (Obama’s Bun Cha)

Taste bun cha, a northern classic popularised internationally; expect simple seating and robust flavours. Usually open 9:00–22:00.
USD6, 1h0m

2:00pm

Old Quarter walking tour & markets

Explore narrow streets, handicraft shops and local coffee stops — this is the best way to feel the city’s pulse.
USD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Traditional Vietnamese water puppetry shows at 7:00pm (check performance times) — a cultural highlight and family-friendly.
USD8, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner — Cha Ca La Vong

Try Cha Ca (turmeric fish with dill), a distinctive Hanoi dish served in a long-established restaurant; opens midday–evening.
USD12, 1h0m

Day 2: Hanoi Sights

Hanoi, Vietnam on December 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Cong Caphe

Get a Vietnamese coffee and coconut coffee for fuel; most branches open from 7:00 onwards.
USD4, 30m

8:30am

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum & President’s Residence

Visit the mausoleum area and exterior gardens (mausoleum opens 8:00–11:00; closed Mon and Fri mornings often) — check current opening days/hours.
USD0, 1h0m

10:30am

Temple of Literature

Vietnam’s first university with well-preserved courtyards and pagodas; typically open 8:00–17:00.
USD2, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — KOTO Restaurant

Social-enterprise restaurant serving excellent Vietnamese dishes while supporting youth training; book ahead for lunch service (11:00–14:00).
USD10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Fantastic exhibits on Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups; open around 8:30–17:30 (closed Mon) — allow time for indoor and outdoor displays.
USD4, 2h0m

6:30pm

Evening street-food crawl (Old Quarter)

Try egg coffee, grilled skewers and banana pancake from well-known street vendors with an experienced guide for best picks and safety.
USD18, 2h0m

9:00pm

Return to hotel

Relax and prepare for early start to Ha Long the next morning.
USD0, 30m

Day 3: Ha Long Cruise

Ha Long Bay (base: Halong), Vietnam on December 22, 2025

7:00am

Transfer to Ha Long Bay

Early minibus transfer from Hanoi to Ha Long (approx 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic); pick-up times vary by operator.
USD15, 3h30m

11:30am

Board Overnight Cruise

Embark on a 2-day/1-night cruise with cave visits, cruising among limestone karsts and optional kayaking; cruises typically depart late morning and return next midday.
USD150, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch on board

Fresh seafood buffet or set menu while the boat navigates scenic channels — meals included on most packages.
USD0, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore cave / light kayak

Visit a show cave (e.g., Sung Sot) or go kayaking in calm inlets; cave visiting times vary but are usually mid-afternoon.
USD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Sunset & Dinner on deck

Enjoy sunset views, seafood dinner and possibly squid fishing or onboard entertainment; dinner times typically 19:00.
USD0, 2h0m

9:00pm

Overnight on the boat

Sleep on board in comfortable cabin — peaceful, scenic overnight stay among karsts.
USD0, 10h0m

Day 4: Ninh Binh

Ninh Binh, Vietnam on December 23, 2025

7:00am

Morning on deck & light breakfast

Early bird coffee and light breakfast as the boat reaches secluded areas; most cruises offer sunrise activities and early breakfast.
USD0, 1h0m

9:30am

Return to shore & transfer to Ninh Binh

Disembark in Ha Long and transfer back to Hanoi then continue to Ninh Binh (total travel ~4–5 hours) or arrange direct transfer — confirm schedule with operator.
USD30, 4h30m

2:30pm

Lunch — Local riverside restaurant in Tam Coc

Sample cơm cháy (crispy rice), freshwater fish and local greens in Tam Coc; many restaurants open from late morning to early evening.
USD8, 1h0m

3:30pm

Boat ride at Tam Coc

Traditional sampan ride through rice fields, caves and karst scenery (operators run 8:00–17:00); the afternoon light is beautiful for photos.
USD9, 1h0m

5:00pm

Climb Mua Cave viewpoint for sunset

Short climb (approx 500 steps) to panoramic viewpoints over the valley and river — best around late afternoon for golden light. Open daily.
USD2, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner — Local homestyle meal

Enjoy a quiet dinner of regional specialities near your guesthouse; many family-run eateries close early — check times.
USD8, 1h0m

Day 5: Fly to Hoi An

Hoi An (via Da Nang), Vietnam on December 24, 2025

6:30am

Transfer to Hanoi airport

Early transfer to Hanoi Airport for flight south to Da Nang; allow time for domestic check-in (typically 1.5–2 hours before departure).
USD10, 2h0m

10:00am

Flight Hanoi → Da Nang

Short flight (~1h15) to Da Nang; book early to secure best times—airlines run frequent services.
USD60, 1h15m

11:45am

Transfer to Hoi An & check-in

15–45 minute drive from Da Nang airport to Hoi An; settle at your hotel and prepare to explore the ancient town.
USD10, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Morning Glory Restaurant

Renowned Hoi An restaurant focusing on central-Vietnamese dishes and classics; typically open lunchtime.
USD12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk Hoi An Ancient Town

Explore UNESCO-listed streets, Japanese Bridge and old merchant houses — town is pedestrianised in parts and open all day (best 8:00–21:00).
USD6, 2h0m

6:30pm

Christmas Eve dinner — Riverside Lantern Restaurant

Celebrate with lantern-lit ambiance by the Thu Bon River; many places offer a special menu for the evening — reserve ahead for 24 Dec.
USD25, 2h0m

Day 6: Hoi An Relax

Hoi An, Vietnam on December 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Cargo Club Cafe

Popular bakery/cafe with great cakes and eggs; opens early (usually 7:30–22:00) and is ideal for a relaxed start on Christmas morning.
USD7, 45m

9:30am

Half-day cooking class & market visit

Learn to shop at the morning market then cook regional dishes — most classes run 09:00–13:00 and include lunch.
USD35, 4h0m

2:00pm

Relax at An Bang Beach

Short bike ride to a nearby sandy beach for swimming and sun; beach cafes open from morning through evening.
USD0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll & bespoke tailoring (if order needed)

Visit a reputable tailor like Yaly Couture for fittings — many tailors can do quick turnarounds but Christmas timings may vary, so check availability.
USD10, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner — Mango Rooms or Morning Glory

Enjoy modern takes on Vietnamese classics riverside; book ahead for Christmas evening as places fill up.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 7: Travel South

Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & last-minute shopping

Light breakfast at a riverside cafe and collect any tailor orders in the morning before departure.
USD6, 1h0m

11:00am

Transfer to Da Nang Airport

Short drive to Da Nang for an afternoon flight to Ho Chi Minh City; allow time for check-in.
USD10, 45m

2:00pm

Flight Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City

Approximately 1.5-hour flight; book in advance for best fares and schedule convenience.
USD60, 1h30m

4:00pm

Check in & small city walk

Stroll the Reunification Palace area and nearby cathedral to get an initial feel for Saigon.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner — Banh Xeo 46A

Crisp savoury pancakes popular in the south; lively local spot typical open evening hours.
USD6, 1h0m

9:00pm

Rooftop cocktail

Visit a rooftop bar near District 1 for skyline views and a nightcap; bars typically open until late.
USD12, 1h30m

Day 8: Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Banh Mi Huynh Hoa

Famous banh mi shop with generous fillings — opens early and is ideal before museum visits.
USD3, 30m

9:00am

War Remnants Museum

Powerful exhibits on the Vietnam War era; typically open 7:30–17:00 — expect emotional and photographic displays.
USD2, 1h30m

11:00am

Reunification Palace visit

Historic landmark with preserved state rooms and rooftop helipad — usually open 7:30–16:00.
USD2, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Ben Thanh Market food stalls

Sample a range of local dishes under one roof; the market is busiest midday and open all day.
USD6, 1h0m

3:00pm

Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office

Iconic French colonial architecture in the city centre — these sites are open during daylight hours and are free to view from outside/in the public areas.
USD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner — Secret Garden

Rooftop Vietnamese restaurant with atmospheric setting and contemporary takes on classics; reserve for a table.
USD18, 1h30m

Day 9: Cu Chi & Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on December 28, 2025

7:00am

Half-day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels

Explore the vast tunnel network used in wartime with guided sections open for visitors; most tours run 7:00–12:30 and include transport.
USD25, 5h0m

1:30pm

Lunch — Local Vietnamese eatery on return

Return to the city and refuel with a hearty Vietnamese lunch near your hotel.
USD8, 1h0m

3:00pm

Chinatown (Cholon) & Thien Hau Pagoda

Discover the vibrant markets, herbal shops and the atmospheric 19th-century Thien Hau Pagoda; open during daytime.
USD0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner — Seafood on Vinh Khanh Street

One of the city’s best streets for seafood; choose a busy stall for quality and freshness.
USD12, 1h30m

9:00pm

Evening walk along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

People-watch and enjoy occasional live events and light displays; safe and lively at night.
USD0, 1h0m

Day 10: Mekong Delta

Can Tho / Mekong Delta, Vietnam on December 29, 2025

7:00am

Transfer to Mekong Delta (Can Tho)

Drive to the Mekong—select either My Tho for a day trip or overnight in Can Tho for Cai Rang floating market next morning; travel time ~3–4 hours.
USD20, 3h30m

11:00am

Boat tour around local canals

Visit orchards, local workshops and floating markets via small boat; many tours operate 9:00–16:00.
USD18, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch — Riverfront specialities

Try fresh river fish and Mekong-style cuisine at a riverside homestay or restaurant.
USD8, 1h0m

4:30pm

Check-in & relax

Settle into an agro-tourism homestay or Can Tho hotel and enjoy sunset over the river.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner — Local homestay meal

Enjoy a family-prepared dinner with regional specialities; convenient and authentic for overnight stays.
USD12, 1h0m

Day 11: Floating Market → Phnom Penh

Can Tho → Phnom Penh, Cambodia on December 30, 2025

5:00am

Cai Rang Floating Market (early start)

See the most active floating market at dawn (peak activity ~5:00–8:30). Bring a hat; small-boat tours operate early and return late morning.
USD12, 2h0m

9:00am

Return & breakfast

Enjoy a late breakfast near the river with fresh tropical fruit and Mekong coffee.
USD4, 45m

11:00am

Transfer across border to Phnom Penh

Crossing by bus/minivan via the border (My Tho/Can Tho to Phnom Penh) takes ~6–7 hours including stops and immigration; alternatively fly via HCMC for a faster option.
USD25, 7h0m

6:30pm

Arrive Phnom Penh & check-in

Settle in and take a short evening stroll along Sisowath Quay by the Tonlé Sap river.
USD0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner — Riverside Khmer restaurant

Try fish amok and lok lak in a riverside setting; many restaurants open evening hours (18:00–22:00).
USD12, 1h30m

Day 12: Phnom Penh History

Phnom Penh, Cambodia on December 31, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Brown Coffee & Bakery

Grab coffee and pastries before a full day of museum visits; most cafes open from 7:00–8:00.
USD5, 30m

8:30am

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)

A sobering but important visit to learn Cambodia’s recent history; open roughly 8:00–17:00—arrive early to avoid crowds.
USD5, 1h30m

10:30am

Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Short drive from the city to the memorial site; the audio guide explains the history and is recommended. Site open daily 8:00–17:00.
USD6, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch — Friends the Restaurant

Supportive NGO-run restaurant offering excellent Khmer and international dishes near the river; open lunchtime (11:30–14:30).
USD10, 1h0m

3:00pm

Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

Beautiful royal complex and the Silver Pagoda with its emerald Buddha (open 8:00–17:00); dress modestly and check any midday closures.
USD10, 1h30m

9:00pm

New Year’s Eve — Sisowath Quay or rooftop party

Celebrate with riverside crowds, live music and fireworks—book a rooftop for clearer views and a more comfortable experience.
USD25, 3h0m

Day 13: To Siem Reap

Phnom Penh → Siem Reap, Cambodia on January 1, 2026

8:00am

Morning flight or express bus to Siem Reap

A short flight (~1 hour) is quickest; buses/minivans take 5–7 hours. Choose based on time and comfort—flights recommended for a smoother start to the Angkor visit.
USD60, 1h0m

11:30am

Arrive & check-in

Settle into your Siem Reap hotel and refresh after travel — many hotels are near Pub Street and the National Museum.
USD0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Khmer Kitchen Restaurant

Try Khmer classics like beef lok lak and fish amok; restaurants are open through the afternoon in tourist areas.
USD10, 1h0m

2:30pm

Angkor National Museum

Great orientation before temple visits, open 8:30–18:00; learn history, iconography and layout of Angkor.
USD12, 1h30m

5:30pm

Pub Street & Old Market stroll

Explore lively streets, craft stalls and try local snacks — good for a relaxed first evening in Siem Reap.
USD0, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner — Apsara Theatre (dinner + dance)

Enjoy a Khmer dance performance with dinner to experience cultural cuisine alongside classical performance; bookings recommended.
USD30, 2h0m

Day 14: Angkor Temples

Siem Reap, Cambodia on January 2, 2026

4:30am

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Arrive early (park opens approx 5:00) for sunrise views over Angkor Wat and reflective pools — sunrise time around 5:30–6:00 depending on season.
USD37, 2h0m

8:30am

Breakfast near Angkor complex

Quick breakfast at a café en route after sunrise — many simple places near ticket gates open early for temple tourists.
USD6, 30m

9:30am

Explore Angkor Thom & Bayon

Visit the central complex of Angkor Thom and the iconic smiling faces of Bayon; open daylight hours, allow time to move between sites by tuk-tuk.
USD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch — Khmer Garden Restaurant

Refuel with rice and curry dishes near the temple circuit; many lunchtime services available between 11:00–14:00.
USD10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Ta Prohm & Ta Nei

See the famous ‘Tomb Raider’ tree-rooted temple and quieter Ta Nei for atmospheric photography; all temples are open roughly sunrise to sunset.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng (if energy permits)

Popular sunset viewpoint requiring a short climb; it can be crowded so arrive earlier. Park closes after sunset — check exact closing time.
USD0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner — Marum (social enterprise)

Support local training programs while enjoying innovative Khmer dishes; booking recommended for evening service.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 15: Depart Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Cambodia on January 3, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast — Sister Srey Cafe

Healthy breakfast options and coffee near central Siem Reap — a calm spot before travel.
USD6, 45m

9:00am

Optional short visit: Angkor National Museum or last-minute shopping

If your flight is later, revisit a favourite spot or pick up souvenirs at the Old Market (Psar Chas); many shops open from morning.
USD0, 1h0m

11:00am

Hotel check-out & transfer to airport

Allow at least 1 hour for transfer to Siem Reap Airport and check-in for international departures; factor in suggested airline check-in times.
USD10, 1h0m

1:00pm

Departure

Fly out from Siem Reap to your onward destination; safe travels and note airport security and possible New Year traffic disruptions.
USD0, —
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