Grand Vietnam and Cambodia – 10Days

Start your Vietnam adventure with a unique cyclo ride through the charming alleys of Old Hanoi. Visit the notorious Hoa Lo Prison, often called the "Hanoi Hilton" from its time during the Vietnam War. Explore the colonial Presidential Palace that Ho Chi Minh declined to inhabit, along with his "house on stilts" and his final resting place. Admire the One-Pillar Pagoda, a Hanoi icon built in 1049 to resemble a lotus flower. Enjoy a lunch of Vietnamese delicacies, then spend the afternoon at your leisure. In the evening, be captivated by a traditional water puppet show, a 1,000-year-old art form, and savor an à la carte dinner at a beautifully restored French colonial building.

A trip to Vietnam would be incomplete without exploring Hué, Vietnam's most stunning city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This morning, you'll fly to Hué and embark on a cyclo tour to experience the majestic Citadel, which once served as the Imperial City for official ceremonies and the Forbidden Purple City for private moments of the emperor. Marvel at the Thien Mu Pagoda, a seven-tiered octagonal structure erected in 1844, and enjoy a serene cruise on the Perfume River, where your riverfront accommodations are also situated.

Following a tour of Emperor Tu Duc's 19th-century tomb in Hué, enjoy the picturesque coastal views and Hai Van Mountain during your drive to Da Nang. Arrive at the renowned Da Nang Beach ("China Beach"), celebrated in the 1980s TV series and now a sought-after destination in Vietnam. You'll spend the next two nights at the prestigious Beach Resort Da Nang, a top beachfront resort located directly on the East Vietnam Sea.

This morning, enjoy a charming visit to a local kindergarten in Da Nang before continuing your journey to Hoi An, a historic trading port on the East Vietnam Sea from the 15th to the 19th centuries and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore Hoi An’s picturesque streets by cyclo, admire the red-painted Japanese Covered Bridge—its three Chinese characters translate to "bridge for passers-by from afar"—and tour the 200-year-old "Phung Hung" house, known for its distinctive architecture that offers insights into the lives of Hoi An’s merchants of the past. Spend the afternoon at your own pace, and dine at your convenience this evening.

Catch a morning flight to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), Vietnam’s second-largest metropolis. Head to the Ben Duoc battlefield memorial site, located to the northwest of the city, and delve into the underground Cu Chi Tunnels with your local guides. This extensive network, stretching 120 miles, was used during the Vietnam War and included kitchens, dormitories, munitions factories, hospitals, and schools. After enjoying a picnic lunch, explore more of Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace for the rest of the day, and have dinner independently tonight.

Discover Ho Chi Minh City with the help of your local guide today. Visit the Reunification Hall, formerly known as the Presidential Palace, and see the former U.S. Embassy, the Saigon River, the 19th-century Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and the impressive Post Office. In the evening, indulge in Vietnam's rich culinary traditions with a sophisticated à la carte dinner at La Camargue. This elegant restaurant, set in a beautifully restored villa, offers a menu featuring French, Vietnamese, and international dishes.

This morning, your journey continues as you fly from Vietnam to Cambodia, arriving in Siem Reap (9:15-10:35) for a two-night stay at the Central City Hotel. This hotel is ideally situated near the remarkable Angkor archaeological site, which is twice the size of Manhattan. In the afternoon, be amazed by the grandeur of the 12th-century Angkor Wat temple. The intricate bas-reliefs and numerous devatas (guardian spirits) adorning its walls evoke awe and reverence. This iconic example of Khmer architecture has served as a major religious site for both Hindus and Buddhists over the centuries.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check-in.

Later, visit the renowned Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, celebrated for its beauty and magnificence. Marvel at the world's longest continuous bas-relief, which encircles the outer gallery walls and depicts scenes from Hindu mythology. Also, visit Bakheng Temple and take in a romantic sunset view from Bakheng Hills.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Hidden within jungle roots, the captivating Ta Prohm Temple appears almost as if it’s a natural extension of the surrounding rainforest. Built in 1186 by Cambodia's Khmer civilization, this temple originally served as a Buddhist university and monastery. It remains enchanting to this day, as you'll discover on your visit. Explore the last capital of the Khmer empire, the walled city of Angkor Thom, and marvel at the intricately adorned Bayon Temple, famous for its sculpted faces. As you visit the Elephant Terrace in Angkor Thom—once the site of the king's audience pavilion—you’ll understand how it earned its name and have the chance to capture some memorable photos, thanks to tips from a professional photographer. Later, you may choose to join a cruise on Tonle Sap Lake to see the intriguing floating villages.

A complimentary transfer to the airport is included for your onward travel.