Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos 17-Day Itinerary — March 21 to April 6, 2026

Hanoi, Vietnam · Saturday, March 21, 2026

Arrival in Hanoi — Old Quarter orientation

Morning:

Start your first morning with a leisurely walk to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, watching locals practice tai chi at sunrise before slipping into the nearby Ngõ Phất Lộc alleys to sample a classic bowl of phở at a bustling street stall. Continue to the charming St. Joseph's Cathedral area and browse artisan shops on Hàng Ngang Street, getting your first feel for Hanoi's Old Quarter rhythm and picking up a map and tips for the afternoon orientation.

Afternoon:

After a restful lunch, wander the atmospheric lanes toward Train Street to watch the narrow-track life unfold, then head to the nearby Bach Ma Temple for a quiet glimpse of local worship and lacquered altars. Finish with a relaxed coffee at a rooftop café overlooking the Old Quarter-try a traditional egg coffee at Café Giảng-and stroll to Ta Hien Street as it starts to bustle, sampling a cold bia hơi and soaking up evening street scenes.

Evening:

As dusk falls, take a short stroll to Hồ Tây (West Lake) for a sunset view and join locals at the lakeside promenade before heading to Tây Hồ district for a relaxed riverside dinner featuring northern specialties like cha ca at a popular family-run restaurant. After dinner, wander through the atmospheric Hàng Buồm night market to browse handicrafts and sample sweet treats, then finish with a drink at a cozy riverside bar near Long Biên Bridge, watching the city lights shimmer over the Red River.

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Hanoi, Vietnam · Sunday, March 22, 2026

Hanoi cultural sights and street food

Morning:

Begin with a visit to Hoa Lo Prison (Maison Centrale) to learn about Vietnam's colonial and wartime history through evocative exhibits, then walk to the nearby Vietnam Fine Arts Museum to admire traditional lacquer, silk paintings and contemporary works. Finish the morning by sampling street-food favourites at Hàng Bồ Market, tasting chewy bánh cuốn from a stall and a refreshing glass of Vietnamese iced coffee at a lane-side café before heading back to the Old Quarter for your afternoon plans.

Afternoon:

After a museum-filled morning, meander toward the leafy Temple of Literature to wander its peaceful courtyards and see the stone stelae honoring ancient scholars, then stroll to the nearby Quốc Tử Giám Garden for a quiet tea at a traditional teahouse. Continue with a street-food crawl through the vibrant Hàng Đào and Hàng Ngang lanes-sample sweet chè from a beloved vendor and try a crispy bánh rán-before catching sunset light and puppet-show posters around the historic Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre for an optional evening performance.

Evening:

As night falls, dive into the lively culinary scene with a guided street-food tour around Đông Xuân Market and the neighboring lanes, sampling grilled skewers, sticky rice cakes and the legendary bún chả at a popular local stall. Finish with a twilight walk along the atmospheric Hàng Mã lantern-lit street to browse traditional crafts, then stop for a late-night dessert of creamy chè ba màu at a beloved family-run cart before returning to the Old Quarter.

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Halong Bay / Ninh Binh, Vietnam · Monday, March 23, 2026

Halong Bay cruise or Ninh Binh day trip

Morning:

Rise early and transfer from Hanoi to Ninh Binh for a scenic sampan ride through the karst-lined channels of Tam Cốc, slipping under low bamboo arches while local boatmen point out limestone cliffs and rice terraces; follow with a short bicycle loop through nearby villages to admire traditional stilt houses and watch farmers at work. Alternatively, head northeast to Halong's port for embarkation, enjoy a welcome drink aboard a wooden junk, explore the emerald waterways toward Soi Sim Island for a short hike to panoramic viewpoints, then relax on deck with a fresh seafood brunch as the bay's towering islets drift by.

Afternoon:

If you chose Ninh Binh, pedal or take a short car ride to Mua Cave (Hang Múa) and climb the stone steps to the summit for sweeping views over the rice-flecked plains and winding river channels, then descend to explore the atmospheric Bích Động Pagoda complex with its layered courtyards and riverside gardens. If aboard a Halong cruise, join a guided kayak or bamboo boat trip into the quiet lagoon near Ti Top Islet, swim from a sheltered cove, then return to deck for a late-afternoon cooking demonstration featuring local crab and shrimp recipes before a sundowner on the bow.

Evening:

If you're on a Halong cruise, settle into a golden-hour tai chi session on the upper deck before a sunset cruise toward Sung Sot Cave's outer viewing point, then enjoy a seafood BBQ on deck accompanied by a live folk-music performance for an intimate introduction to northern coastal flavours. If you're in Ninh Binh, return to town for a riverside dinner at Thung Nham Garden's lantern-lit platforms, then take a twilight boat along the quieter reed-lined channels to spot roosting birds and admire the silhouette of Ngoa Long Mountain as the day cools.

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Hoi An (via Da Nang), Vietnam · Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Fly to Da Nang — Hoi An evening

Morning:

After an early flight into Da Nang, collect your luggage and head straight to the marble-cliff overlook at Mỹ Khê Beach for a brisk walk and a coffee while watching local fishermen. Continue to the riverside town of Hoi An by taxi, stopping at Linh Ung Pagoda (Son Tra Peninsula) for a brief cultural stretch and panoramic coastal views before checking into your hotel and wandering the quaint lanes to discover a tailor's workshop for a first look at custom-fitting options.

Afternoon:

After checking in and unpacking, wander the quiet backstreets toward Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu) for photos, then join a guided food-walking tour through the atmospheric Central Market (Chợ Hội An) to sample cao lầu, fresh bánh mì, and local bánh bao while learning about regional ingredients. Finish the afternoon with a relaxing boat ride on the Thu Bồn River at golden-hour, watching riverside life unfold and spotting craftsmen at their lantern workshops before preparing for an evening of tailored shopping or a cooking class.

Evening:

As lanterns begin to glow, wander toward the atmospheric riverside near Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien) to watch craftsmen string paper lanterns and catch live traditional music by the water. Continue with a riverside dinner at a family-run restaurant on Nguyen Phuc Chu Street, sampling local specialties like white rose dumplings and cao lầu, then drift on a short candlelit boat rental beneath the illuminated bridges to release a wish-filled paper lantern at An Hoi Islet for a quietly magical end to your first day in Hoi An.

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Hoi An, Vietnam · Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Hoi An explore — riverside and old town

Morning:

Begin with a sunrise stroll through Cam Nam Village to watch local boat-builders and rice farmers begin their day, then join a guided bicycle loop along the peaceful backroads to Tra Que Vegetable Village for a hands-on herb-planting and traditional tram ruốc (seaweed) massage demonstration. After working up an appetite, enjoy a riverside brunch at Morning Glory Café-style spot sampling fresh mi quang and locally caught river prawns while soaking up views of lantern-lit rooftops before the town fully awakens.

Afternoon:

After your riverside brunch, wander toward the colorful craft quarter and visit Phạm Phào Ceramic Workshop to try simple pottery shaping, then stroll to Quan Thang Ancient House to admire preserved merchant-era architecture and timber interiors. As light softens, join a short cycle to Cua Dai Beach for a late-afternoon dip and fresh seafood snacks at a beachside stall, returning via the riverfront to browse bespoke lantern-makers at Hoi An Lantern Village before an early evening tea.

Evening:

As dusk deepens, head to An Bang Beach for a relaxed beachfront aperitif and watch local fishermen bring in their catch before settling at a seaside restaurant for grilled seafood and a sunset dipping of bare feet in the sand. Later, stroll the lantern-lit lane toward Old House of Tan Ky to admire its warm wooden interiors, then join a small-group craft workshop at Reaching Out Teahouse to taste specialty teas and make a simple woven lantern to take home as an evening souvenir.

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Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam · Thursday, March 26, 2026

Fly to Ho Chi Minh City — city highlights

Morning:

After your flight, start with a local-style breakfast of bánh mì and cà phê sữa đá at a bustling stall in Ben Thanh Market, then stroll to the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon to admire its French-colonial façade and stained glass. Continue on foot to explore the grand Saigon Central Post Office with its vaulted interior and vintage maps, then take a short cyclo ride through leafy Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street toward the river for an easy orientation of District 1 and a chance to watch the city wake up.

Afternoon:

After checking into your hotel, wander toward the leafy riverfront to visit the atmospheric Bến Thành Market for a sensory-packed stroll through stalls selling local coffee, dried fruits and lacquerware before grabbing a light bánh xèo from a popular vendor. Continue with a guided visit to the moving War Remnants Museum to deepen your understanding of modern Vietnam, then unwind with an afternoon cruise on the Saigon River-a short boat trip offers skyline views and a quiet break from the city's bustle before evening plans.

Evening:

As night falls, head to the vibrant Bùi Viện Walking Street to soak up lively street food stalls and neon-lit bars, sampling fresh gỏi cuốn and a chilled local draft at a busy sidewalk vendor. For a skyline perspective, take the lift to the rooftop bar at Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck) for sundowner views, then wander to the nearby Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai area to discover late-night bánh mì stands and a tucked-away jazz club for live music to close your first Saigon evening.

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Ho Chi Minh City / Mekong Delta, Vietnam · Friday, March 27, 2026

Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta transfer

Morning:

Depart early for a guided exploration of the Cu Chi Tunnels complex, crawling through restored passageways and learning about ingenious wartime traps at the Ben Dinh network while trying a traditional kẹo lạc (peanut candy) offered by a local village family. After the tunnel visit, stop at a nearby rice-paper workshop to watch artisans stretch and sun-dry sheets, sample freshly made rice-paper rolls, and enjoy a short countryside walk amid rubber plantations before your comfortable transfer south toward the Mekong Delta.

Afternoon:

After a countryside lunch, board a comfortable minivan toward the Delta and stop at Cai Be Floating Market for a lively introduction to river commerce-wander small sampans piled with fruit, sip a coconut fresh from a vendor and snap photos of vendors trading from their boats. Continue with a guided village walk in Vinh Long to visit a family-run coconut candy workshop, learn the candy-making steps, taste samples, then take a short boat cruise through narrow canals lined with stilt houses as local fishermen cast nets and sampans ferry schoolchildren home.

Evening:

As twilight settles over the Delta, arrive in My Tho and wander its bustling riverfront promenade where vendors grill seafood skewers and serve iced sugarcane juice; pause at a waterfront café to watch sampans glide by. Later, enjoy a family-style dinner at Restaurant Hoa Binh sampling regional specialties like caramelized fish and elephant ear fish, then take a short moonlit boat ride to spot fireflies along the shaded canals before settling into your riverside guesthouse for the night.

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia · Saturday, March 28, 2026

Cross into Cambodia — Phnom Penh arrival

Morning:

After crossing the border, ease into Phnom Penh with a restorative breakfast at Sister Srey Café, then take a gentle riverside stroll along the Sisowath Quay to watch longboats and market life unfold. Continue to the atmospheric Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung Market) to browse silk scarves, silverwork and street-food stalls, tasting a bowl of fragrant kuy teav while absorbing the city's vibrant trade and preparing for afternoon explorations.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely riverside morning, head inland to explore the solemn history of the city at Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) where an audio guide and memorial stupa provide context, then visit the nearby Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) to see preserved classrooms-turned-prison and survivor testimonies. Finish the afternoon with a restorative stop at Wat Phnom to climb through shaded gardens, then wander the adjacent stalls selling local snacks and refreshing sugarcane juice before an early evening riverfront return.

Evening:

As dusk settles, head to Mekong Riverside Park for a leisurely stroll and watch locals flying kites and families gathering along the riverbanks, then pause at a riverside bench to sample cold local desserts from a nearby vendor. Continue to Street 240 to dine at a lively eatery serving Khmer classics like fish amok and beef lok lak, then finish the night at FCC Phnom Penh for a craft cocktail or mocktail on the terrace while enjoying views over the Tonle Sap and Mekong confluence.

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Phnom Penh, Cambodia · Sunday, March 29, 2026

Phnom Penh history and riverside

Morning:

Begin with a peaceful sunrise visit to Wat Langka, where saffron-robed monks chant in the cool morning air and you can offer alms for a quiet cultural moment, then stroll through the tree-lined grounds of Independence Monument Park to see Khmer memorial sculptures and early-morning exercise groups. Continue to the nearby National Museum of Cambodia to admire its red-brick galleries of Angkorian sculptures and lacquerware, followed by a riverside coffee at FCC's quieter sister café to watch the Tonle Sap current pick up as the city wakes.

Afternoon:

After a reflective morning, head to Phnom Penh Royal Palace to wander the ornate Throne Hall and the serene Silver Pagoda gardens, then cross the river to explore the lively stalls and street-food vendors at Orussey Market where you can taste grilled skewers and fresh mango with sticky rice. Finish the afternoon with a late tea at Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre Café, learning about their social-enterprise programs and browsing handcrafted goods before a riverside promenade along Sisowath Quay as sunset light warms the Mekong-facing facades.

Evening:

As night falls, take a tuk-tuk to the lively Night Market (Phsar Reatrey) to browse artisanal goods and sample street-food specialties like skewered river fish and banana fritters while listening to local buskers. Continue with a sunset Mekong-side dinner at The Exchange rooftop for modern Khmer plates and river views, then finish with a relaxed drink at the intimate riverside bar Le Moon Rooftop, watching the city lights shimmer over the Tonle Sap-Mekong confluence.

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Siem Reap, Cambodia · Monday, March 30, 2026

Travel to Siem Reap — Angkor orientation

Morning:

Arrive in Siem Reap and settle in before a gentle orientation: begin with a restorative breakfast at Blue Pumpkin sampling Khmer coffee and coconut pastries, then stroll the shaded lanes to the tranquil Royal Residence Gardens to stretch your legs and spot local birdlife. Continue with a short visit to the atmospheric Old Market (Psar Chas) to pick up bottled water, sun-hat essentials and a map, followed by a relaxed tuk-tuk ride out to the nearby Angkor National Museum for an engaging overview of Angkorian history to set the scene for your temple explorations later in the day.

Afternoon:

After a light hotel lunch, take a tuk-tuk out to explore the quieter temple fringe beginning with a stroll through the moat and shaded gardens of Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine, then continue to the photogenic ruins of Wat Athvea for low-relief carvings and peaceful ponds. Finish the afternoon with a relaxed cycle along rural lanes to Phnom Krom at golden hour for sweeping views over Tonle Sap and surrounding rice paddies before returning to town to freshen up for dinner.

Evening:

As dusk falls, wander to Pub Street for lively atmosphere and sample Khmer tapas like fish amok and num banh chok at a popular stall, then enjoy a craft beer at a laid-back microbrewery. Afterwards, stroll through the nearby Angkor Night Market to browse handmade silver and silk, finish by catching an intimate traditional Apsara dance performance at Theam's House or a riverside bar for a quiet nightcap before an early start at the temples tomorrow.

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Siem Reap, Cambodia · Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Angkor Wat and temple circuit

Morning:

Beat the heat with an early start for a sunrise walk around Angkor Thom South Gate, then enter the compact jewel of Bayon Temple to marvel at its dozen-faced stone towers and close-up bas-reliefs depicting ancient Khmer life. From there, cycle a short distance through shaded jungle tracks to the intimate Ta Prohm-its enveloping fig and silk-cotton roots make for atmospheric photography and a guided moment to learn about recent conservation efforts before a riverside breakfast at a nearby local homestay.

Afternoon:

After a morning at Angkor Thom South Gate, stroll to the grand causeway of Angkor Wat to explore its intricate gallery bas-reliefs and climb the central tower for a panoramic view of the temple complex. In the late afternoon, visit the lesser-known but atmospheric Pre Rup for warm golden light over rice paddies, then pause at Srah Srang (the Royal Baths) to watch local life gather by the water as the sun softens before returning to Siem Reap for an evening meal.

Evening:

As twilight deepens, head to Phnom Bakheng for a classic sunset vantage point where you can watch the temples silhouette against a blaze of colour, then descend through fragrant cashew orchards toward the town. Continue the evening with a riverside dinner at The Sugar Palm enjoying traditional Khmer dishes like fish amok, followed by a relaxed stroll through Made in Cambodia Market to browse local crafts and pick up artisan souvenirs before an early night ahead of tomorrow's travels.

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Siem Reap, Cambodia · Wednesday, April 1, 2026

More temples or Tonle Sap boat trip

Morning:

Start with a tranquil early ride to Banteay Kdei, where quiet cloisters and carved lintels invite reflective exploration before joining a local guide to learn about ongoing conservation efforts; follow with a short tuk-tuk hop to Sras Srang Community Pier to board a traditional longtail for a gentle morning cruise across the Tonle Sap fringe, watching fishermen and stilt-house villages come to life. After the boat, disembark at Kompong Phluk to glide through flooded forests on a small wooden canoe led by a resident boatman, pause to visit a family homestay and sample freshly grilled river fish and coconut rice while hearing stories of seasonal water rhythms-an immersive local counterpoint to yesterday's Angkor complexes.

Afternoon:

Spend a relaxed afternoon exploring the quieter temple cluster around Banteay Samre, admiring its well-preserved carvings and shaded laterite galleries, then cycle onward to the atmospheric moat and terrace of Srah Srang for a peaceful riverside picnic while watching village life. Later, visit Kbal Spean (the River of a Thousand Lingas) for a gentle hike through jungle to see carved riverbeds and small cascades, returning by late afternoon to town to freshen up before evening plans.

Evening:

As twilight falls, wander to Pub Street's quieter lanes for a relaxed dinner at a chef-run bistro showcasing modern Khmer tasting plates, then stroll to the atmospheric Made in Cambodia Market to browse artisan silver, silk and lacquer while enjoying street performers. Finish with a late-night visit to Phare, the Cambodian Circus for an energetic contemporary performance blending acrobatics and storytelling, or choose a riverside seat at Riverside Bistro to sip a Mekong-style cocktail while the town lights reflect on the Siem Reap River.

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Luang Prabang, Laos · Thursday, April 2, 2026

Fly to Luang Prabang — evening markets

Morning:

Arrive in Luang Prabang and recharge with a leisurely breakfast at Saffron Coffee, then wander the shaded colonial boulevard to browse local stalls at Ban Phanom Village, watching skilled weavers at work and picking up hand-dyed textiles. Continue with a gentle climb to Wat Xieng Muan for quiet river views and a short introductions to Lao gilded temple art, then pause at Manda de Laos Bakery for a light pastry before checking into your hotel and preparing for the afternoon's temple visits.

Afternoon:

After checking in and a short rest, wander up to Mount Phousi for panoramic views over the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, then stroll down to explore the leafy lanes around Wat Sensoukarahm with its ornate gilded roofs and calm courtyards. Continue with a hands-on visit to Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre to learn about traditional Lao textiles-try a short ikat-dyeing demo-and finish the afternoon with a riverside coffee at Laos Produce while watching longboats ply the slow-current as the town eases toward evening.

Evening:

As night falls, wander the atmospheric stalls of Luang Prabang Night Market along Sisavangvong Road to browse hand-woven textiles, silverwork and lacquerware while sampling sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf and grilled skewers from local vendors. Afterward, follow the lantern-lit riverside toward Utopia Bar for a relaxed Mekong-side drink or head to Wat Xieng Thong's outer gardens (viewed from the riverbank at night) before finishing with sweet coconut pancakes from a street cart near Hor Kham for a cozy, local-flavoured end to your travel day.

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Luang Prabang, Laos · Friday, April 3, 2026

Kuang Si Falls and city temples

Morning:

Set off early to beat the crowds with a scenic drive to Kuang Si Falls, where you can swim in the turquoise pools, stroll the shaded trails to the panoramic viewpoint and visit the small Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre at the park entrance. After cooling off, stop en route back in a riverside village to join a short workshop at Ban Phanom Silk Weaving Cooperative to see traditional ikat weaving and try your hand at a simple loom technique before returning to town for an afternoon of temple visits.

Afternoon:

After a riverside lunch, wander through the atmospheric lanes to visit Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham with its intricate gold leaf interiors, then join a guided tasting at Saffron Tea House to sample local herbal blends and learn about Lao tea culture. Continue with a tranquil boat trip upriver to the lesser-known Pak Ou Viewpoint for quiet panoramic views of the Mekong and return via a stop at Ban Xieng Lek to see lacquerware artisans shaping traditional bowls before heading back to town to rest ahead of the evening market.

Evening:

As twilight deepens, wander to the atmospheric Udomxai Lane for a relaxed dinner at a riverside bistro serving Lao-style grilled fish and tamarind-glazed vegetables, then stroll toward Sisavangvong Road to browse specialty stalls selling hand-painted textiles and silverwork illuminated by lanterns. Finish the night with a quiet visit to the riverside viewpoint at Ban Xang Khong to watch traditional paper-making demonstrations and enjoy a riverside sticky-rice dessert while the Mekong reflects the town's soft evening lights.

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Luang Prabang region, Laos · Saturday, April 4, 2026

Mekong river cruise to Pak Ou caves

Morning:

Board a traditional longboat at Luang Prabang Riverside Pier for a tranquil upstream cruise, stopping first at Ban Xanghai to visit a family-run rice whisky distillery where you can learn the distillation process and sample small pours while chatting with local producers. Continue through quiet river bends to disembark at Ban Muangkeo for a guided walk through fragrant teak groves to a hilltop viewpoint, then return to the boat for a riverside picnic of grilled river fish, sticky rice and jungle herbs served by your crew as the morning light silvers the Mekong.

Afternoon:

Disembark for a guided visit to the cliffside Pak Ou Caves to explore the hundreds of small gilded Buddha figures and learn about local pilgrimage traditions, then wander to the nearby riverside village of Ban Pak Ou to meet craftsmen making sticky rice baskets and try a hand-pressing demonstration. Afterwards, return downstream for a leisurely stop at Ban Xang Khong to watch traditional paper- and textile-making, sample freshly brewed Lao coffee at a family-run stall, and stroll the shaded lanes as late-afternoon light softens over the Mekong.

Evening:

As dusk falls, moor at Ban Phanom for a riverside craft-and-dinner experience where village weavers demonstrate traditional ikat finishing while you enjoy a communal Lao meal of grilled river fish and tamarind-glazed greens. After dinner, drift back toward town under lantern-lit skies, pausing at Wat Aham's riverbank steps to listen to local storytellers and watch nightly offerings before a slow return to Luang Prabang with the Mekong's gentle night sounds accompanying your voyage.

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Luang Prabang / Vientiane, Laos · Sunday, April 5, 2026

Travel toward Vientiane or fly home from Luang Prabang

Morning:

Wake gently with a final riverside coffee at Laos Produce Café, then take a scenic drive to the peaceful Khone Pha Pheng viewpoint (or similar local overlook) for one last panorama of the Mekong before departure. If transferring overland toward Vientiane, stop en route at Ban Na Ouan to visit a roadside silk-weaving cooperative and enjoy a simple Lao lunch with sticky rice and jeow (spicy dip), or, if flying home from Luang Prabang, visit the serene Wat Pa Phon Phao meditation hall for a brief guided reflection to close your trip.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely checkout, take a scenic overland transfer (or short domestic flight) and pause en route at Ban Xieng Lek to watch lacquerware artisans hand-finish bowls and pick up a compact souvenir. If continuing by road toward Vientiane, stop for a riverside lunch at Pak Ou Riverside Restaurant sampling grilled Mekong fish and fresh greens, then visit the peaceful hillside Tai Dam Textile Cooperative for a guided demo of traditional embroidery before resuming your journey with soft late-afternoon light on the river.

Evening:

If you arrive in Vientiane, relax into the city rhythm with dinner at Kualao Restaurant, sampling Lao classics like mok pa beside colonial-era facades, then take an after-dark stroll along Chao Anouvong Park to see the illuminated riverside and local evening life. Alternatively, if you remain in Luang Prabang, enjoy a farewell meal at Manda de Laos followed by a serene twilight visit to Wat Xiang Thong's outer galleries (viewed from the adjacent riverbank) to listen to monks chanting and watch lantern-lit longboats drift past as your trip winds down.

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Departure from Laos (Vientiane or Luang Prabang) · Monday, April 6, 2026

Departure day — end of itinerary

Morning:

Spend a calm final morning visiting Wat Phu Si (if in Luang Prabang) for one last panorama of the Mekong and a short reflective walk through its shaded terraces, then linger over a leisurely breakfast at Saffron Coffee sampling Lao coffee and sticky rice wrapped in banana leaf. Alternatively, in Vientiane enjoy a final stroll through Hua Mak Park before breakfast at Joma Bakery Café, followed by last-minute souvenir shopping at Talat Sao Morning Market and a relaxed transfer to the airport, leaving time to savor a final cup of Lao tea.

Afternoon:

After a leisurely checkout, linger over a riverside lunch at Tamnak Lao Restaurant (in Vientiane) sampling mok pa and fresh papaya salad while watching the Mekong's slow current, or in Luang Prabang choose a relaxed meal at Malis Bistro overlooking the Nam Khan with grilled river fish and sticky rice. Spend the late afternoon visiting the calm Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to pick up last-minute handmade textiles and learn a final snapshot of Lao cultures, then return to your hotel for a smooth airport transfer, allowing time for duty-free treats and a final cup of Lao coffee before departure.

Evening:

Spend a calm final evening enjoying a farewell meal at Khem Khwan Restaurant (Vientiane) or Tamarind (Luang Prabang) where you can savor a last serving of local mok and sticky rice while reflecting on the trip. Afterwards, take a gentle riverside stroll to Chao Anouvong Park (Vientiane) or the atmospheric Night Market Riverside Promenade (Luang Prabang) to buy one last handcrafted souvenir and watch lanterns or lights shimmer on the Mekong before your transfer to the airport.

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Estimated Costs (per person)

Place / ActivityCost
Hoàn Kiếm LakeFree
Ngõ Phất Lộc (street phở stall)₫60,000
St. Joseph's Cathedral (Hanoi)Free
Hàng Ngang Street (artisan shops)Free
Train Street (Hanoi)Free
Bạch Mã TempleFree
Café Giảng (egg coffee)₫60,000
Ta Hien Street (bia hơi)₫40,000
Hồ Tây (West Lake)Free
Tây Hồ district dinner (cha ca at family restaurant)₫250,000
Hàng Buồm night marketFree
Long Biên Bridge (riverside bar area)Free
Hoa Lo Prison (Maison Centrale)₫40,000
Vietnam Fine Arts Museum₫40,000
Hàng Bồ Market (street-food tastings)₫80,000
Temple of Literature₫30,000
Quốc Tử Giám Garden / teahouse₫50,000
Thăng Long Water Puppet Theatre (optional show)₫200,000
Guided street-food tour (Hanoi, evening)₫650,000
Hàng Mã (lantern-lit street)Free
Bánh rán / chè street snacks₫40,000
Halong Bay cruise (day trip cruise estimate)₫1,500,000
Ninh Binh day-trip (Tam Cốc sampan + bike)₫900,000
Mua Cave (Hang Múa) entrance₫100,000
Bích Động PagodaFree
Ti Top Islet (Halong activities: kayak/swim)Included in cruise
Sung Sot Cave (Halong viewing/visit)Included in cruise
Mỹ Khê Beach (Da Nang)Free
Linh Ung Pagoda (Son Tra)Free
Tailor workshop (Hoi An initial fitting)₫300,000
Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu)₫20,000
Central Market (Chợ Hội An) food-walking tour₫350,000
Thu Bồn River boat ride (short)₫150,000
Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien)₫20,000
Nguyen Phuc Chu Street riverside dinner (white rose, cao lầu)₫200,000
An Hoi Islet candlelit boat rental (lantern release)₫200,000
Cam Nam Village sunrise strollFree
Tra Que Vegetable Village (herb planting & massage)₫200,000
Morning Glory-style riverside brunch₫150,000
Phạm Phào Ceramic Workshop (pottery experience)₫120,000
Quan Thang Ancient House₫30,000
Cua Dai / An Bang Beach visit & snacks₫100,000
Old House of Tan Ky₫120,000
Reaching Out Teahouse (craft workshop & tea)₫150,000
Ben Thanh Market (breakfast & market stroll)₫80,000
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of SaigonFree
Saigon Central Post OfficeFree
Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street cyclo ride₫100,000
Bến Thành Market (snacks/lunch)₫120,000
War Remnants Museum₫40,000
Saigon River cruise (short)₫200,000
Bùi Viện Walking Street (food & drinks)₫150,000
Bitexco Saigon Skydeck (observation / rooftop bar)₫200,000
Cu Chi Tunnels (guided Ben Dinh visit)₫350,000
Rice-paper workshop visitFree
Cai Be Floating Market visit (Mekong arrival)₫150,000
Vinh Long coconut candy workshop visit₫80,000
My Tho riverfront stroll & dinner (Restaurant Hoa Binh style)₫200,000
Border crossing to Cambodia (costs vary)₫200,000
Sister Srey Café (Phnom Penh breakfast)$6
Sisowath Quay stroll (Phnom Penh)Free
Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung)Free
Kuy Teav (market bowl)$2
Choeung Ek (Killing Fields) entrance + audio guide$6
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)$5
Wat PhnomFree
Mekong Riverside Park (Phnom Penh)Free
Street 240 dinner (local Khmer meal)$8
FCC Phnom Penh (drink/dinner)$12
Wat Langka (Phnom Penh)Free
Independence Monument ParkFree
National Museum of Cambodia$10
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda$10
Orussey Market (street-food)$3
Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre Café (tea & donation)$5
Phsar Reatrey Night MarketFree
The Exchange rooftop dinner (Phnom Penh)$12
Le Moon Rooftop (drink)$8
Blue Pumpkin (Siem Reap breakfast)$6
Royal Residence Gardens (Siem Reap)Free
Old Market (Psar Chas) essentials$5
Angkor National Museum$12
Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm ShrineFree
Wat AthveaFree
Phnom Krom (viewpoint)Free
Pub Street (dinner & drinks)$10
Angkor Night MarketFree
Theam's House (Apsara performance)$12
Angkor Thom South Gate (sunrise walk)Free
Bayon Temple (Angkor Thom) (Angkor pass required)$37
Ta Prohm (Angkor)Included in Angkor pass
Angkor Wat (Angkor pass required)Included in Angkor pass
Pre Rup (sunset)Included in Angkor pass
Srah SrangIncluded in Angkor pass
Phnom Bakheng (sunset viewpoint)Included in Angkor pass
The Sugar Palm (dinner)$12
Made in Cambodia MarketFree
Phare, the Cambodian Circus (ticket)$18
Tonle Sap boat trip (Kompong Phluk)$20
Banteay SamreIncluded in Angkor pass
Kbal Spean (River of a Thousand Lingas) entrance & guide$15
Saffron Coffee (Luang Prabang breakfast)₭20,000
Ban Phanom Village (weavers)Free
Wat Xieng MuanFree
Manda de Laos Bakery (pastry)₭25,000
Mount Phousi (viewpoint)Free
Wat SensoukarahmFree
Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre (demo)₭60,000
Luang Prabang Night MarketFree
Kuang Si Falls (entrance & swimming)₭50,000
Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre (entry / donation)₭20,000
Ban Phanom Silk Weaving Cooperative workshop₭30,000
Wat Mai SuwannaphumahamFree
Saffron Tea House tasting₭20,000
Pak Ou viewpoint & boat to Pak Ou caves₭120,000
Ban Xang Khong (paper-making)Free
Ban Xanghai rice whisky distillery visit₭30,000
Ban Muangkeo guided walk (hill viewpoint)₭40,000
Ban Phanom riverside craft-and-dinner experience₭150,000
Wat Aham riverbank storytelling stopFree
Laos Produce Café (final coffees)₭20,000
Ban Na Ouan silk-weaving cooperative (stop)₭30,000
Pak Ou Riverside Restaurant (lunch)₭60,000
Tai Dam Textile Cooperative visit₭40,000
Kualao Restaurant (Vientiane dinner)₭120,000
Chao Anouvong Park (Vientiane evening stroll)Free
Manda de Laos (farewell meal - Luang Prabang)₭100,000
Wat Pa Phon Phao (meditation hall)Free
Tamnak Lao Restaurant (riverside lunch Vientiane)₭80,000
Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (entry)₭30,000
Khem Khwan Restaurant / Tamarind (farewell dinner)₭120,000
Wat Phu Si (final panorama)Free
Talat Sao Morning Market (souvenir shopping)Free
Estimated Total (per person)₫13,707,000
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