Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary

If you're dreaming of an unforgettable Southeast Asian adventure, Vietnam and Cambodia make the perfect travel combo. These neighboring countries offer a unique blend of ancient wonders, rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes-all within easy reach of one another.

Whether you're walking through the timeworn streets of Hanoi, sailing through the emerald waters of Halong Bay, or standing in awe before the towering temples of Angkor Wat, this itinerary promises a deep dive into history, nature, and authentic local experiences.

This guide covers everything you need to plan a smooth and enriching journey-from how to get around, where to go, and what to expect to budget tips, travel routes, and hidden gems. Whether you have 10 days or two weeks, this Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary is designed to help you make the most of every moment.

Discover must-see Cambodia tourist places to add unforgettable memories to your itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam and Cambodia

Ideal Seasons: Dry vs. Wet

The best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia is during the dry season, from November to March. During these months, you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, clear skies, and more comfortable sightseeing-especially important when exploring outdoor landmarks like Angkor Wat or Halong Bay.

The wet season runs from May to October, bringing heavy rains, especially in Cambodia. However, it’s also the low season, which means fewer crowds and lush green scenery. Just bring a raincoat and flexible plans!

Month-by-Month Weather Breakdown

November to March – Cool and dry, ideal for travel
April – Hot and humid, especially in Cambodia
May to August – Rainy season begins, but mornings are often dry
September to October – Continued rains, but fewer tourists

Festival Highlights

Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) – January or February: a vibrant time filled with food, flowers, and family traditions, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Khmer New Year (Cambodia) – Mid-April: celebrated with water fights, games, and temple visits.
Water Festival (Cambodia) – November: massive boat races and cultural celebrations in Phnom Penh.

Short on time? Try the Cambodia itinerary 5 days for a quick but enriching Cambodia visit.

How to Travel Between Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam and Cambodia are neighbors, which makes traveling between them convenient and flexible. Whether you’re short on time or want to enjoy the scenic route, here are the most popular options to cross the border:

Flight Options for Vietnam and Cambodia

The fastest and easiest way to travel between Vietnam and Cambodia is by air. Major international airports in both countries are well connected.

Hanoi to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap – Direct flights take around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap – Flights are short and frequent, often under 1.5 hours.
Budget carriers like VietJet, Cambodia Angkor Air, and AirAsia offer competitive fares, especially if booked early.

Land Border Crossings for Vietnam and Cambodia

If you’re on a budget or love overland adventures, land crossings are a great way to go.

Bavet–Moc Bai (Ho Chi Minh City ↔ Phnom Penh) – Most popular and well-serviced crossing. Buses take about 6–7 hours.
Ha Tien–Kampot or Chau Doc–Phnom Penh – Scenic routes with easy connections from the Mekong Delta.
Bring passport-sized photos and small USD cash for visa processing if needed.

River Cruises (Mekong River)

For a scenic and relaxing journey, consider a Mekong River cruise between Vietnam and Cambodia.

Most cruises go from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh, sometimes extending to Siem Reap.
Cruises range from budget 2-day options to luxury 5-day experiences.
You’ll pass floating villages, rice fields, and riverside temples-perfect for slow travel lovers.

Visa Requirements for Vietnam and Cambodia

Vietnam:

Indian passport holders need a Vietnam eVisa, which can be applied for online.
Valid for 30 days, single entry.

Cambodia:

Indians can apply for a Cambodia eVisa or get a visa on arrival at airports and most land borders.
Valid for 30 days, single entry. Bring passport photos and cash (approx. $30 USD).

Pro tip: Print multiple copies of your visa, carry passport-size photos, and check border opening hours in advance.

Consider a convenient Cambodia tour package to seamlessly link your Vietnam and Cambodia travels.

Suggested 10-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Itinerary

Short on time but want to see the best of both Vietnam and Cambodia? This 10-day itinerary hits the major highlights while keeping travel times efficient and experiences meaningful.

Days 1–3: Hanoi & Halong Bay, Vietnam

Day 1: Hanoi
Kick off your adventure in Vietnam’s charming capital. Wander through the bustling Old Quarter, sample local dishes like pho and bun cha on a street food tour, and catch a water puppet show for some cultural flair.

Day 2: Halong Bay Cruise
Take a day trip or overnight cruise to Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its emerald waters and limestone karsts. Kayak through caves, swim off the boat, or just soak in the surreal beauty.

Day 3: Return to Hanoi and enjoy a relaxed evening before your flight south.

Days 4–5: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Day 4: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the morning. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, walking along Nguyen Hue Street, or sipping Vietnamese iced coffee at a rooftop café.

Day 5: Dive into history with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, then stop by the War Remnants Museum to understand Vietnam’s complex past.

Day 6: Travel to Phnom Penh, Cambodia

It’s time to cross the border! You have a few travel options:

Flight: 1-hour direct flight from HCMC to Phnom Penh
Land border crossing: 6–7 hours by bus via Bavet–Moc Bai
Mekong River cruise: A scenic alternative for slow travel fans

Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, take it easy. Head to the Riverside Promenade or shop for local crafts at the Central Market.

Days 7–8: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 7: Explore Cambodia’s royal and tragic past. Start at the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, then visit the haunting Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.

Day 8: Unwind with a sunset cruise on the Mekong River, or take a food tour to try Khmer dishes like fish amok and beef lok lak.

Days 9–10: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Day 9: Take a short flight or bus to Siem Reap, the gateway to the temples. Start your temple-hopping at Angkor Wat during sunrise-it’s magical. Then explore Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm, the “Tomb Raider” temple swallowed by jungle.

Day 10: Wrap up your journey with a visit to the Angkor National Museum or shop for souvenirs at the Siem Reap Night Market. Don’t forget to try a Khmer massage before heading home!

Explore exciting things to do in Cambodia that pair well with your Vietnam adventure.

Optional 14-Day Itinerary Add-ons

If you have more time to spare, expanding your Vietnam and Cambodia trip to 14 days allows for deeper exploration beyond the classic highlights. Here are some top add-ons to customize your journey:

Ninh Binh or Sapa, Vietnam

Ninh Binh (Ideal for nature and peace lovers)
Just 2 hours from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is often called the “Halong Bay on land.” Cruise through limestone cliffs in Trang An, climb the steps to Hang Mua Peak, and explore ancient temples like Bai Dinh. It’s a great escape from city buzz.

Sapa (Perfect for adventure and culture seekers)
Nestled in the northern mountains, Sapa offers terraced rice fields, hill tribe villages, and scenic trekking routes. Go for a guided hike, visit a local Hmong or Red Dao community, and enjoy cooler weather.

Kampot or Koh Rong, Cambodia

Kampot (Chill riverside town with charm)
Famous for its pepper plantations, French colonial architecture, and laid-back vibe, Kampot is a relaxing stop. Cruise on the river at sunset, visit Bokor Hill Station, or rent a bike and explore countryside trails.

Koh Rong (Tropical island escape)
Need some beach time? Head to Koh Rong, Cambodia’s island paradise. With white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and budget-to-luxury stays, it’s perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or doing absolutely nothing.

Mekong Delta River Cruise

Slow down and see Vietnam's life on the river with a cruise through the Mekong Delta. Depart from Can Tho or My Tho and float past floating markets, stilt houses, and lush rice paddies. Some cruises also link to Phnom Penh, making for a seamless transition into Cambodia.

Budget Breakdown for 10–14 Days

Planning your budget is key for a smooth trip. Here’s a rough estimate of costs for Vietnam and Cambodia travel:

Flights:

International flights vary; regional flights (Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh–Phnom Penh–Siem Reap) typically cost $30–$100 per leg.

Accommodation:

Budget: $10–$20 per night (hostels, guesthouses)

Mid-range: $30–$70 per night (3-star hotels, boutique stays)

Luxury: $100+ per night (resorts, premium hotels)

Food & Drinks: Street food meals cost around $1–$3; restaurants $5–$15 per meal.

Transport: Local buses, tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbike rentals $5–$20/day.

Entrance Fees: Temples, museums, and tours $5–$30.

Daily Average Cost: Expect to spend roughly $40–$80 per day, depending on your travel style.

Plan your budget effectively by checking the Cambodia trip cost from India for combined travel.

Travel Tips for Vietnam and Cambodia

Currency:

Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is king, but cards are accepted in bigger cities.
Cambodia’s official currency is the Riel (KHR), but US Dollars (USD) are widely used for most transactions. Carry small bills for convenience.

Find out how to get your Cambodia visa for Indians hassle-free when traveling with Vietnam.

Local Etiquette:

Dress modestly at religious sites.
Always remove shoes before entering temples or homes.
Use both hands when giving or receiving something.
Avoid public displays of affection.

SIM Cards & Connectivity:

SIM cards are inexpensive and widely available at airports and convenience stores.
Vietnam’s top providers: Viettel, Mobifone; Cambodia’s: Cellcard, Metfone.
Get data plans for easy navigation and communication.

Health & Safety Tips:

Drink bottled or filtered water only.
Use mosquito repellent to prevent dengue and malaria.
Carry a basic first aid kit and any personal medication.
Register with your embassy if possible.

No Vietnam and Cambodia trip is complete without visiting the iconic Angkor Wat Cambodia.

Packing List for Vietnam and Cambodia

Clothing:

Lightweight, breathable clothes for hot weather.
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, especially in northern Vietnam (Sapa) or during winter months.
Modest clothing to cover shoulders and knees for temple visits.

Must-Haves:

Sunscreen with high SPF
Universal power adapter (Vietnam and Cambodia use Type A, C, and G plugs)
Mosquito repellent with DEET or natural alternatives

Optional:

Travel insurance documentation
Reusable water bottle with a built-in filter
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

Discover the perfect Cambodia itinerary 7 days to complement your Vietnam and Cambodia trip plans.

Final Thoughts

Traveling through Vietnam and Cambodia offers an unforgettable blend of vibrant cultures, rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm local hospitality. From the bustling streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene temples of Angkor Wat and peaceful Mekong River cruises, this itinerary captures the essence of Southeast Asia’s best.

Remember, this journey is just a starting point-feel free to customize your route based on your interests, whether that’s more beach time, adventure trekking, or cultural immersion.