15-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Adventure: From Hanoi to Siem Reap

Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese pho breakfast, known for its flavorful broth and fresh ingredients. Opens from 7:00am to 10:00am.
VND60000, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

Stroll around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake and visit the serene Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, a central cultural spot in Hanoi. Open 24 hours, temple from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
VND30000, 1h30m

11:30am

Lunch at Bun Cha Huong Lien

Try the famous 'bun cha' grilled pork noodles, made popular by a visit from President Obama. Open 10:00am to 3:00pm.
VND70000, 1h

1:00pm

Visit the Old Quarter

Explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, known for its historic architecture, local shops, and street food.
Free, 2h

3:30pm

Visit the Temple of Literature

Discover Vietnam’s first university and Confucian temple, offering insight into the country's scholarly traditions. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
VND30000, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Cha Ca La Vong

Savor the unique Hanoi specialty, grilled fish with dill and turmeric, in a legendary restaurant. Open 10:00am to 10:00pm.
VND150000, 1h

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise

Halong Bay, Vietnam on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Halong Bay

Depart Hanoi early for a 3.5-hour scenic drive to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
VND350000 (transport), 3h30m

10:30am

Board Halong Bay Cruise

Begin a relaxing cruise through the stunning limestone karsts and emerald waters. Most cruises include lunch. Cruises typically run from 10:00am to 5:00pm.
USD100, 6h

5:30pm

Dinner on Cruise

Enjoy a fresh seafood dinner on board as the sun sets over the bay.
Included with cruise, 1h

7:30pm

Overnight on Cruise or Return to Halong City

Choose to sleep on the boat or transfer back to Halong City for overnight.
Varies, Overnight

Day 3: Return to Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Morning Tai Chi and Breakfast on Cruise

Join a morning Tai Chi session on deck, followed by breakfast with views of the bay.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Discover Sung Sot Cave

Explore the impressive Surprise Cave with stunning stalactites and stalagmites during the cruise.
Included, 1h

11:00am

Return to Halong City and Travel Back to Hanoi

Disembark and take the bus back to Hanoi for your next destination. Arrival by mid-afternoon.
Included with cruise and transport fee, 4h

3:30pm

Coffee at Cafe Giang

Try the famous egg coffee in a historic Hanoi café open till 10:00pm.
VND50000, 30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Bun Bo Nam Bo

Sample a delicious Northern Vietnam noodle salad with beef. Open 10:00am to 9:00pm.
VND70000, 1h

Day 4: Hoi An Arrival

Hoi An, Vietnam on April 26, 2025

7:00am

Fly Hanoi to Da Nang, Transfer to Hoi An

Morning flight (1.5 hours) from Hanoi to Da Nang, followed by a 45-minute transfer to Hoi An.
USD50 flight + USD10 transfer, 3h

11:00am

Lunch at Morning Glory

Enjoy traditional central Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. Open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
VND120000, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Ancient Town

Visit historic houses, temples, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Open daily from 8:00am to 9:00pm.
VND120000 (ticket), 3h

4:30pm

Lantern Making Workshop

Participate in a traditional lantern-making workshop to create your own souvenir.
VND200000, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bale Well

Delight in Hoi An specialties like grilled pork and fresh spring rolls. Open 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
VND100000, 1h

Day 5: Beach & Countryside

Hoi An, Vietnam on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Espresso Station

Start your day with artisan coffee and pastries. Open 7:00am to 7:00pm.
VND70000, 1h

9:30am

Bike Tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village

Cycle through rice paddies to this organic farming village and learn local farming techniques.
VND150000 (tour), 3h

12:30pm

Lunch in Tra Que Village

Enjoy a farm-to-table meal with fresh vegetables from the village.
VND120000, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at An Bang Beach

Spend the afternoon at this beautiful seaside beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Open all day.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Mango Mango

Try creative Vietnamese fusion dishes with river views. Open 6:00pm to 11:00pm.
VND180000, 1h30m

Day 6: Fly to Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on April 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Rosie’s Cafe

Enjoy Western and Vietnamese breakfast options in a cozy atmosphere. Open 7:30am to 10:00pm.
VND80000, 1h

9:00am

Fly Hoi An (Da Nang) to Ho Chi Minh City

Morning flight of about 1 hour 20 minutes. Transfer to hotel upon arrival.
USD50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Pho 2000

Enjoy pho in the spot made famous by US President Bill Clinton’s visit. Open 7:00am to 9:00pm.
VND70000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit War Remnants Museum

Explore exhibits documenting the Vietnam War from a local perspective. Open 7:30am to 6:00pm.
VND40000, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Shop for souvenirs, local food, and crafts. Market open daily until 6:00pm.
Free entry, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Secret Garden

Dine on rooftop Vietnamese dishes in a charming setting. Open 6:00pm to 10:30pm.
VND150000, 1h30m

Day 7: Cu Chi Tunnels & City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on April 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Coffee House

Start with quality coffee and light breakfast. Open 7:00am to 10:00pm.
VND60000, 30m

8:00am

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Half-day guided tour to the famous tunnels used during the Vietnam War. Open 7:00am to 5:30pm.
USD20, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at Hum Vegetarian

Relax with fresh vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
VND100000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office

Admire French colonial architecture in central Saigon.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Pho Hoa

Enjoy one of the city’s best pho restaurants. Open 6:00am to 9:30pm.
VND70000, 1h

Day 8: Travel to Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at L’usine

Trendy spot for breakfast with Western and Khmer options. Open 7:00am to 10:00pm.
USD4, 1h

10:00am

Fly Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh

Flight of approx 1 hour. Transfer to hotel in Phnom Penh city center.
USD60, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Romdeng Restaurant

Enjoy Cambodian specialties in a social enterprise restaurant. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
USD8, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Learn about Cambodia’s recent history at this powerful museum. Open 7:30am to 5:30pm.
USD5, 2h

5:00pm

Walk along Sisowath Quay

Enjoy the riverside promenade with views over the Mekong River.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Friends the Restaurant

Popular eatery supporting local youth training, serving authentic Khmer food. Open 5:30pm to 10:00pm.
USD10, 1h30m

Day 9: Phnom Penh Sights

Phnom Penh, Cambodia on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Shop Cafe

Relaxing spot with Western and Cambodian breakfast dishes. Open 7:00am to 9:00pm.
USD5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Explore the opulent royal residence and the adjoining Silver Pagoda. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
USD10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kabbas Restaurant

Taste authentic Khmer cuisine with riverside views. Open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
USD8, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung Market)

Shop for souvenirs, textiles, and local snacks in this bustling market. Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Wat Phnom

Explore Phnom Penh’s historic hilltop temple, open from 7:00am to 7:00pm.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Malis Restaurant

Upscale dining serving refined Khmer dishes in a beautiful setting. Open 6:00pm to 10:30pm.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 10: Travel to Siem Reap

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Sister Srey Cafe

Highly rated cafe offering great coffee and breakfast options. Open 7:00am to 5:00pm.
USD4, 1h

9:00am

Fly Phnom Penh to Siem Reap

Short flight about 45 minutes, with transfer from airport to hotel in Siem Reap.
USD60, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Marum Restaurant

Social enterprise serving Khmer cuisine with a modern twist. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
USD8, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Angkor National Museum

Learn about the history and culture of the Angkor civilization. Open 8:30am to 6:00pm.
USD15, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Pub Street & Old Market

Enjoy shopping, street food, and local nightlife in the heart of Siem Reap.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chanrey Tree

Enjoy outstanding Khmer cuisine in a garden setting. Open 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 11: Angkor Wat & Temples

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 3, 2025

5:00am

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Experience the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat; arrive early for the best view. Park open 5:00am to 6:00pm.
USD37 (1-day pass), 2h

7:30am

Breakfast at The Little Red Fox Espresso

Trendy café offering great coffee and breakfast. Open 7:00am to 5:00pm.
USD5, 1h

9:00am

Explore Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm

Visit the iconic temple with smiling faces and the atmospheric jungle-covered Ta Prohm. Open 5:00am to 6:00pm.
Included in Angkor pass, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Sugar Palm

Enjoy traditional Khmer dishes made with local ingredients. Open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
USD12, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Banteay Srei Temple

Known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings. Open 5:00am to 6:00pm.
Included in Angkor pass, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Miss Wong

Atmospheric Asian fusion dishes in a stylish setting. Open 5:00pm to 11:00pm.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 12: Angkor Temples & Village

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sister Srey Cafe

Healthy and delicious meals in a friendly environment. Open 7:00am to 5:00pm.
USD5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Preah Khan and Neak Pean

Explore less crowded temples featuring unique architecture and tranquil surroundings. Open 5:00am to 6:00pm.
Included in Angkor pass, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Hive

Modern cafe offering tasty dishes and coffee. Open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
USD10, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village

Tour a nearby traditional floating village to experience local life on the lake.
USD20, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Viroth's

Savor authentic Khmer cuisine with elegant presentation. Open 5:30pm to 10:00pm.
USD18, 1h30m

Day 13: Culture & Relaxation

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Common Grounds Cafe

Popular spot for healthy breakfast and artisan coffee. Open 7:30am to 6:00pm.
USD5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Artisans Angkor Workshop

Discover traditional Khmer craftsmanship including silk weaving and stone carving. Open 8:00am to 5:00pm.
USD5, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Peace Cafe

Relaxed vegetarian cafe with a spacious garden setting. Open 11:30am to 9:00pm.
USD8, 1h

2:00pm

Spa and Massage Treatment

Enjoy a traditional Khmer massage to unwind after days of sightseeing.
USD25, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Phare Circus

Attend a renowned performance blending theater, music, and acrobatics. Shows start at 7:30pm.
USD18, 1h30m

7:00pm

Early Dinner at Haven

Support local youth with dinner served in a tranquil garden. Open 6:00pm to 9:30pm.
USD15, 1h

Day 14: Final Day Exploring

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Khmer Kitchen Restaurant

Try classic Khmer breakfast dishes in a relaxed environment. Open 7:00am to 10:00pm.
USD5, 1h

9:30am

Visit Angkor Thom South Gate

Walk through the impressive gate with stone carvings and elephant statues. Open 5:00am to 6:00pm.
Included in Angkor pass, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore local markets for last-minute shopping

Visit Psar Chaa or other local markets for souvenirs and snacks.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Mahob Khmer Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Cambodian cuisine in a traditional setting. Open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
USD10, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore nearby cafes

Unwind or sample local coffee before departure.
Varies, 2h

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Embassy Restaurant

Elegant Khmer dining experience with exceptional ambiance. Open 5:30pm to 10:00pm.
USD25, 2h

Day 15: Departure Day

Siem Reap, Cambodia on May 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your departure.
Included with accommodation, 1h

9:00am

Transfer to Siem Reap International Airport

Head to the airport for your flight home or onward travel.
USD10, 1h