Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days

Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days is an unforgettable adventure that combines the cultural treasures of Vietnam with the legendary temples of Angkor in Cambodia. Designed for travelers seeking authentic encounters, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and immersive cultural experiences, this carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the thousand-year-old capital of Hanoi to the majestic temples of Angkor, before exploring the vibrant Mekong Delta and dynamic Ho Chi Minh City.

Accompanied by experienced French-speaking guides from Vietnam Original Travel, you will discover ancient traditions, UNESCO heritage sites, charming villages, spectacular bays, and warm local hospitality. This journey perfectly balances culture, nature, gastronomy, and authentic encounters.

Why choose this Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days ?

This exceptional itinerary allows travelers to experience the cultural heart of Northern Vietnam, traditional handicraft villages around Hanoi, the stunning landscapes of Ninh Binh, a cruise through the magnificent Lan Ha Bay, the imperial heritage of Hue, the charming ancient town of Hoi An, the world-famous temples of Angkor, the floating villages of Tonle Sap Lake, the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, authentic experiences in the Mekong Delta. Few journeys offer such diversity within only two weeks.


Day 1: arrival in Hanoi : discover Vietnam’s historic capital

Your Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days begins in Hanoi, the fascinating capital of Vietnam.

Upon arrival, you are warmly welcomed by your French-speaking guide and private driver from Vietnam Original Travel. After transferring to your hotel and leaving your luggage, the exploration starts immediately.

The first discovery is Hanoi’s famous Old Quarter, where narrow streets have preserved centuries of commercial traditions. Walking through these lively lanes offers an excellent introduction to Vietnamese daily life.

Highlights of the day include Hoan Kiem lake, Ngoc Son temple, The Huc bridge, The Temple of Literature.

The Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, provides insight into the country's long educational traditions.

Lunch features one of Hanoi’s culinary icons: Cha Ca, the city's famous grilled fish specialty.

After hotel check-in, enjoy some relaxation before spending the evening soaking up the atmosphere of Hanoi.

Overnight in Hanoi.


Day 2: discover Hanoi’s traditional craft villages

One of the highlights of this Vietnam and Angkor Tour 15 Days is the opportunity to explore traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.

After breakfast, depart for Bat Trang Ceramic Village, located on the banks of the Red River.

For more than seven centuries, Bat Trang has produced beautiful pottery and ceramics admired throughout Vietnam.

Visitors can observe artisans at work, learn traditional pottery techniques, visit family workshops, browse local handicraft markets.

The journey continues to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village.

This spectacular village has become famous for its colorful incense sticks drying under the sun, creating extraordinary photographic opportunities.

In the afternoon, continue to:

Chuong conical hat village

Discover the art of crafting Vietnam’s iconic conical hats.

Van Phuc silk village

Known as Vietnam’s most prestigious silk-producing village, Van Phuc showcases centuries of weaving expertise.

This immersive day offers a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture and traditional craftsmanship.

Overnight in Hanoi.


Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh : Vietnam’s inland paradise

After breakfast, leave Hanoi for Ninh Binh, often called "Halong Bay on Land."

The first stop is Van Long Nature Reserve.

A peaceful sampan ride through Van Long Lagoon reveals limestone karsts, wetlands, rice fields, rare wildlife.

This tranquil landscape represents some of the most beautiful scenery in Northern Vietnam.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, explore Ninh Binh by bicycle.

Visits include:

Bich Dong pagoda

Often called the "Jade pagoda," this beautiful temple complex is built into a limestone mountain.

Bai Dinh pagoda

The largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam, featuring massive Buddha statues, impressive architecture, spiritual atmosphere.

Van Lam embroidery village

Meet local artisans preserving traditional embroidery techniques passed down through generations.

Overnight in Ninh Binh.


Day 4: Ninh Binh : Lan Ha Bay cruise

After breakfast, depart for Lan Ha Bay.

While neighboring the famous Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay remains less crowded and equally spectacular.

This hidden gem is renowned for emerald waters, limestone islands, peaceful atmosphere, authentic fishing communities.

Around midday, board your cruise vessel and enjoy lunch while sailing through breathtaking scenery.

Afternoon activities include:

Kayaking

Paddle through secluded lagoons and hidden caves.

Swimming

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic karst formations.

Later in the day, participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration and learn how to prepare traditional fresh spring rolls.

Dinner is served on board while the sun sets over the bay.

Overnight aboard the cruise.


Day 5: Lan Ha Bay – Hanoi – Overnight Train to Hue

Wake early to participate in a Tai Chi session on the sundeck.

As the sun rises over the bay, enjoy tea and coffee before breakfast.

The morning excursion takes you to:

Dark and Bright cave

Explore one of Lan Ha Bay’s most beautiful natural wonders by bamboo boat or kayak.

After returning to the cruise, enjoy brunch while sailing back toward the harbor.

A private transfer returns you to Hanoi.

The afternoon is free for personal exploration of the Old Quarter before heading to Hanoi railway station.

Board the overnight train to Hue.

Traveling by train offers a nostalgic and authentic Vietnamese experience while witnessing the changing landscapes of the country.

Overnight in a four-berth sleeper cabin.


Day 6: Hue : imperial heritage and lagoon life

Arriving in Hue, your guide welcomes you and transfers you to a hotel for breakfast.

Formerly the imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue remains one of the country's most culturally significant cities.

The day begins with a boat cruise on the Perfume river.

Visit:

Tu Hieu pagoda

A peaceful Buddhist sanctuary surrounded by pine forests.

Imperial citadel

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The vast complex reveals palaces, temples, royal courtyards, historic gates.

After lunch, continue to Tam Giang lagoon.

This immense coastal lagoon offers a fascinating glimpse into local fishing traditions.

Activities include meeting local fishermen, learning traditional fishing methods, participating in fishing activities.

The sunset over Tam Giang lagoon is particularly memorable.

Overnight in Hue.


Day 7: Hue – Hai Van pass – Hoi An

Following breakfast, begin one of Vietnam’s most scenic road journeys.

Travel south toward Hoi An via:

Lang Co Bay

A spectacular coastal lagoon framed by mountains and white-sand beaches.

Hai Van pass

Often considered Vietnam’s most beautiful mountain pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline.

Numerous photo stops allow travelers to appreciate this extraordinary landscape.

Arrival in Hoi An around lunchtime.

After hotel check-in and lunch, explore Hoi An ancient town.

Highlights include Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient merchant houses, Chinese assembly halls, lantern-lined streets.

The charming atmosphere of Hoi An makes it one of Southeast Asia’s most beloved destinations.

Overnight in Hoi An.


Day 8: Cycling to Tra Que vegetable village

Today’s experience perfectly illustrates the authentic spirit of this Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days.

After breakfast, cycle through the countryside to Tra Que vegetable village.

This traditional farming community is famous for its organic herbs and vegetables.

Activities include meeting local farmers, preparing soil, planting vegetables, harvesting crops.

You then join a local family for a hands-on cooking experience.

Using freshly harvested ingredients, learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

After lunch, return to Hoi An.

The remainder of the day is free to explore tailor shops, art galleries, cafés, riverside promenades.

Overnight in Hoi An.


Day 9: Hoi An – Da Nang – Siem Reap

Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Da Nang Airport.

A short flight connects Vietnam with Cambodia.

Upon arrival in Siem Reap, your guide and driver welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

The rest of the day is free.

Travelers can explore night markets, local restaurants, pub street, artisan workshops.

This charming city serves as the gateway to the legendary Angkor temples.

Overnight in Siem Reap.


Day 10: Angkor sunrise and hidden treasures

Today is one of the most magical moments of the Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days.

Before dawn, depart for Angkor Wat.

Watching the sunrise behind the iconic temple towers is an unforgettable experience.

After sunrise, visit a nearby pagoda and participate in a traditional offering ceremony to Buddhist monks.

This cultural exchange provides unique insights into Cambodian spiritual life.

The day continues with visits to:

Banteay Srei

Famous for pink sandstone, delicate carvings, exceptional preservation.

Banteay Samre

A beautifully restored temple showcasing remarkable bas-reliefs.

Ta Prohm

Known worldwide for giant tree roots intertwining with ancient ruins.

Prasat Kravan

Renowned for its distinctive brick architecture.

Srah Srang

The Royal Baths of Angkor.

Banteay Kdei

A peaceful monastic complex surrounded by walls and galleries.

Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda

Elegant temples reflecting classical Khmer architecture.

Overnight in Siem Reap.


Day 11: The great temples of Angkor

Another extraordinary day dedicated to exploring Angkor’s greatest treasures.

Begin at the lesser-visited West Gate of Angkor Thom.

Continue to:

Angkor Thom

The ancient royal capital of the Khmer Empire.

Bayon Temple

Famous for 54 towers, more than 200 smiling stone faces.

Baphuon

A magnificent temple mountain representing Mount Meru.

Royal Enclosure

Phimeanakas

Terrace of the Elephants

Terrace of the Leper King

The afternoon is devoted to the masterpiece of Khmer civilization:

Angkor Wat

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious monument ever constructed.

Its endless bas-reliefs narrate stories from Hindu mythology and Khmer history.

The day concludes with sunset from Phnom Bakheng.

The panoramic view over the Angkor plain creates a truly unforgettable finale.

Overnight in Siem Reap.


Day 12: Tonle Sap lake – Ho Chi Minh City

After breakfast, discover Tonle Sap lake.

A boat excursion reveals fascinating floating villages where local communities live entirely on water.

You will observe floating homes, schools, restaurants, markets.

This unique ecosystem supports millions of people throughout Cambodia.

Later, transfer to Siem Reap Airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival, begin exploring Vietnam’s largest city.

Visits include:

Chinatown (Cholon)

Colonial Architecture

War Remnants Museum

The city offers a fascinating blend of Vietnamese tradition, French colonial heritage, and modern development.

Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.


Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Tra Vinh

Leave the bustling city behind and enter the lush Mekong Delta.

In My Tho, explore:

Phoenix Island

Discover local handicrafts and traditional industries.

Enjoy tropical fruits, coconut candy tasting, horse-cart rides, sampan cruises.

A visit to a local family includes honey tea tasting accompanied by traditional southern folk music.

Continue to Tra Vinh.

In the evening, participate in a cooking class where you learn to prepare crispy Vietnamese pancakes, one of the Mekong Delta’s most beloved specialties.

Dinner and overnight at Tra Vinh Lodge.


Day 14: Tra Vinh – Can Tho

After breakfast, enjoy a bicycle excursion through peaceful countryside landscapes.

The route passes fruit orchards, traditional houses, small workshops, rural markets.

Following lunch, depart for Can Tho.

En route, visit a beautiful Khmer pagoda, highlighting the region’s cultural diversity.

Upon arrival, discover:

Binh Thuy Ancient House

A magnificent colonial residence.

Ninh Kieu Wharf

The symbolic waterfront of Can Tho.

Ong Pagoda

Can Tho Market

This lively city perfectly represents the dynamic spirit of the Mekong Delta.

Overnight in Can Tho.


Day 15: Cai Rang floating market – Son islet – departure

The final day of your Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days begins early.

Visit Cai Rang floating market at its most authentic moment, before the arrival of large tourist crowds.

Witness hundreds of boats trading fruits, vegetables, agricultural products.

After breakfast, continue to Son islet.

Accessible only by local ferry, this small island offers an authentic glimpse into daily Mekong life.

Activities include visiting fruit gardens, learning fish farming techniques, meeting local families, participating in traditional activities.

Lunch is served in a local family home, creating a memorable farewell to Southern Vietnam.

Later, return to Ho Chi Minh City for your international departure flight.


Conclusion

This Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days is far more than a simple sightseeing holiday. It is a complete cultural immersion through two of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries. From Hanoi’s ancient streets and the peaceful waters of Lan Ha Bay to the imperial heritage of Hue, the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An, the mystical temples of Angkor, and the vibrant life of the Mekong Delta, every day reveals a new facet of the region.

Combining UNESCO heritage sites, authentic local encounters, culinary discoveries, traditional villages, breathtaking landscapes, and expert French-speaking guidance, this Vietnam and Angkor tour 15 days offers the perfect introduction to the timeless beauty and rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and Cambodia.