Vietnam and Cambodia are two incredible Southeast Asian countries, each offering unique experiences. Vietnam stretches from the mountainous north to the tropical south, with bustling cities, stunning bays, and rich cultural heritage. Cambodia, home to the magnificent Angkor temples, boasts a deep history and warm hospitality. Both nations share a long history and a deep cultural connection, making them a perfect pair for travelers looking to explore both natural and historical wonders.

By combining Vietnam and Cambodia, you get the best of both worlds: Vietnam’s lively cities, beautiful landscapes, and delicious street food, along with Cambodia’s ancient temples, fascinating traditions, and peaceful countryside. This article will guide you through what to do in Vietnam and Cambodia for 14 days, covering the best places to visit, things to do, and how to travel between the two countries.

Can I do Vietnam and Cambodia together?

For those who are deciding between Vietnam and Cambodia, why choose? You can absolutely visit Vietnam and Cambodia in one trip. The two countries share a border, and travel between them is relatively easy, especially by flight. Overland travel by bus is a budget-friendly option, with routes connecting Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap to Vietnam’s southern provinces. If you prefer a unique experience, river cruises on the Mekong River link the two countries through the delta region.

If you have 10 to 14 days, you can visit the main highlights without feeling too rushed. This allows you to explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, then Siem Reap and the Angkor temples in Cambodia. With 7 to 9 days, you can still see key destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Siem Reap but may have to skip central Vietnam. If you have three weeks or more, you can take your time exploring more off-the-beaten-path locations in both countries, such as the Mekong Delta, Kampot, or remote provinces like Ha Giang in Vietnam and Ratanakiri in Cambodia. A well-planned itinerary allows you to experience the best of both countries without feeling rushed.

What to do in Vietnam and Cambodia for 14 days ?

Day 1: Arriving in Hanoi

Your journey begins in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. This city is full of energy, history, and culture. The streets are busy with motorbikes, street vendors, and the sounds of daily life. You should start your day with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. This peaceful spot is perfect for people-watching and taking in the local atmosphere. Nearby, Ngoc Son Temple sits on a small island, connected by a red bridge.

The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and traditional houses. You can try bun cha–a local favorite, or sip egg coffee at an old-timey café. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of Literature, an ancient university dedicated to Confucius. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and One Pillar Pagoda are also worth seeing. In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show, a unique Vietnamese art form. End your day with a bowl of pho at a street-side eatery.
 

Day 2: Hanoi – Mai Chau

In the morning, leave the city behind and head to Mai Chau, a valley surrounded by green mountains and rice fields. The drive takes around four hours, but the scenery along the way is beautiful. Mai Chau is home to the Thai ethnic minority, known for their stilt houses and traditional weaving.

Once you arrive, take a walk or bike ride through the rice paddies and small villages. You’ll see farmers working in the fields and children playing by the roadside. The fresh air and quiet atmosphere make it a great escape from the city. Visit Lac and Pom Coong villages to learn about local life and see handmade textiles. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family and watch a traditional dance performance. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try some local rice wine, known as “ruou can.”
 

Day 3: Mai Chau – Pu Luong

After breakfast, continue your journey to Pu Luong Nature Reserve. It’s only a couple of hours away, but the landscape changes dramatically. Pu Luong is known for its terraced rice fields, limestone mountains, and peaceful villages. It’s less crowded than Sapa, but just as stunning.

A hike through the valley takes you past bamboo forests, waterfalls, and remote hamlets. The local Thai people still live in stilt houses and follow traditional farming methods. Visit a water wheel, a fascinating wooden structure used to bring water to the rice fields. If you want a challenge, trek to the top of Pu Luong’s hills for panoramic views. Stay overnight in an eco-lodge or a homestay, where you can enjoy another delicious local meal.
 

Day 4: Pu Luong – Van Long (Ninh Binh)

Say goodbye to Pu Luong and head toward Ninh Binh, often called “Ha Long Bay on land.” Before reaching the famous sites, stop at Van Long Nature Reserve, a hidden gem with fewer tourists. This wetland area is home to limestone karsts, caves, and rare wildlife, including the endangered Delacour’s langur.

A boat trip through Van Long takes you through peaceful waterways surrounded by towering cliffs. Unlike the more popular Tam Coc, Van Long is quieter and more untouched. The reflections of the mountains on the water make it a perfect spot for photography. After the boat ride, take a break at a local restaurant and enjoy some goat meat, a specialty of Ninh Binh. Spend the night in a cozy homestay or boutique hotel, preparing for the next day’s adventure.
 

Day 5: Ninh Binh – Halong Bay

Wake up early and visit Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. The temples dedicated to King Dinh and King Le are surrounded by mountains, giving the area a mystical feel. If you have the time and strength, climb to the Mua Cave viewpoint for one of the best panoramic views in Vietnam. The hike is steep, but the sight of Tam Coc’s limestone peaks and winding river is worth it.

By midday, start your journey to Halong Bay. The drive takes about four hours, but once you arrive, you’ll see why it’s one of Vietnam’s most famous destinations. Thousands of limestone islands rise from the emerald waters, creating a breathtaking landscape. Board a cruise and begin your exploration of the bay. Enjoy a seafood lunch on deck as you sail past unique rock formations. You can visit caves, go kayaking, or relax on the sundeck. At sunset, the view is magical, with golden light reflecting on the water. Spend the night on the cruise, surrounded by the beauty of Halong Bay.
 

Day 6: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hue

Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Halong Bay. The morning mist makes the scenery even more stunning. After breakfast, continue your cruise and explore more of the bay. Some cruises stop at floating fishing villages or caves like Sung Sot (Surprise Cave). Around midday, return to the port and head back to Hanoi. Visit some spots you might have missed out on, shop for souvenirs, or rest up in your hotel room.

From Hanoi, take a night train to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Arrive in Hue in the morning, check into the hotel, and get ready to explore the city.
 

Day 7: Hue

Hue is full of history, as it was once the seat of Vietnam’s emperors. Start your day with a visit to the Imperial City, a massive complex of temples, palaces, and courtyards. Some parts were damaged during the war, but restoration efforts have brought much of it back to life.

After lunch, take a boat ride on the Perfume River and visit Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue’s most famous landmarks. Later, explore the tombs of Emperor Minh Mang or Khai Dinh, both featuring impressive architecture and scenic surroundings. In the evening, walk along the riverside and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of this historic city.
 

Day 8: Hue - Danang - Hoi An

Leave Hue in the morning and travel to Da Nang. The drive takes you over the Hai Van Pass, offering spectacular views of the coastline. In Da Nang, stop at My Khe Beach for a short break or visit the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone hills with caves and pagodas.

By the afternoon, arrive in Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most charming towns. The old town is full of lantern-lit streets, historic houses, and riverside cafes. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and some of the well-preserved merchant houses. In the evening, the town comes alive with lanterns, making it a perfect time for a romantic dinner and a boat ride.
 

Day 9: Hoi An - Tra Que - Siem Reap

Start your day with a visit to Tra Que, a small farming village just outside Hoi An. Here, you can see how local farmers grow herbs and vegetables using traditional methods. Join a cooking class to learn how to make some of Hoi An’s famous dishes, like banh xeo (crispy pancakes).

In the afternoon, head to Da Nang Airport and take a flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. This is the gateway to the Angkor temples. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Try some Cambodian food like amok (coconut curry) or lok lak (stir-fried beef). Get some rest, as the next day will be all about exploring Angkor Wat.
 

Day 10: Siem Reap – Angkor Wat

Siem Reap is best known for the Angkor temples, and today, you’ll explore its most famous sites. Start early with a visit to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Watching the sunrise behind its towers is an unforgettable experience. Spend the morning wandering through its detailed carvings and grand corridors.

Next, visit Angkor Thom, the ancient Khmer capital. Here, Bayon Temple stands out with its 54 towers, each adorned with massive stone faces. Just nearby, you’ll find the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, both offering insight into the grandeur of the Angkor era.

In the afternoon, explore Ta Prohm, the temple swallowed by giant tree roots, creating an eerie but beautiful scene. If time allows, head to Banteay Srei, a smaller but exquisitely carved temple often called the ‘Jewel of Angkor.’ End the day with a relaxing dinner in town and maybe a visit to the night market.
 

Day 11: Siem Reap – More Temples – Tonle Sap Lake

There’s more to see beyond the main temples. Start your day with a visit to Preah Khan, a vast temple complex with moss-covered ruins and hidden corridors. You can also explore Neak Pean, a small island temple surrounded by water.

After a morning of temple-hopping, change the scenery with a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake. The floating villages here offer a glimpse into local life, with houses, schools, and even markets built on stilts. Kampong Phluk floating village is one of the best places to visit, especially in the rainy season when the water level is high. Spend your evening back in Siem Reap, enjoying some local Khmer cuisine and a traditional Apsara dance performance.
 

Day 12: Siem Reap – Saigon

Leave Cambodia behind as you fly to Ho Chi Minh City, often still called Saigon. This city is modern, fast-paced, and full of energy. Start your visit with a trip to the War Remnants Museum, which provides a moving look at the Vietnam War. Afterward, explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, both built during the French colonial period.

Walk through Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try some local street food. In the evening, visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a popular spot to experience the city’s nightlife. If you’re up for it, enjoy a rooftop cocktail while taking in the view of Saigon’s skyline.
 

Day 13: Saigon – Ben Tre – Saigon

Today, take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, often called the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam.’ Travel to Ben Tre, a peaceful province famous for its coconut plantations and scenic waterways. Take a boat ride along the Mekong River, stopping at local workshops where you can see how coconut candy is made. Hop on a tuk-tuk or a bicycle to explore small villages and fruit orchards.

Enjoy a traditional Mekong lunch with specialties like elephant ear fish and fresh tropical fruits. Then, take a sampan ride through narrow canals lined with water palms. By late afternoon, return to Saigon, where you can spend your last evening exploring the city or enjoying a relaxing dinner.
 

Day 14: Saigon – Cu Chi Tunnels – Depart

On your final day, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an underground network used during the Vietnam War. You’ll learn how soldiers lived and fought in these tunnels, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even crawl through a section yourself.

Return to Saigon and have lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure. If you have extra time, take a last walk through Dong Khoi Street, known for its colonial buildings and chic boutiques. Your 14-day journey through Vietnam and Cambodia comes to an end, but the memories will stay with you forever.
 

Which month is best for Vietnam and Cambodia?

The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia together is from November to April. During these months, the weather is cooler and drier, making it comfortable for exploring cities, temples, and natural landscapes. Based on the destinations in this itinerary, January and February are ideal months. Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Hue are pleasant with mild temperatures, while Siem Reap and the Mekong Delta are warm but not too humid. March is also a good option, as it offers dry weather across both countries without extreme heat. Avoid visiting in the peak rainy season (June to September) if you want to experience the best of both Vietnam and Cambodia without disruptions.

Conclusion

We hope that this article helped you have an idea of What to do in Vietnam and Cambodia for 14 days! From the breathtaking landscapes of Halong Bay to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, every moment will leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to experience two of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries, this itinerary has it all. If you're ready to explore Vietnam and Cambodia, book your trip today and embark on the adventure of a lifetime!

>>> Vietnam Cambodia Itinerary 14 days

>>> Best Vietnam Cambodia Combined Tour