Simply Bangkok to Hanoi 17 Days

Embark on an early morning train ride followed by a scheduled bus journey to the captivating city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. Although there will be a vehicle change upon entering Cambodia, your Thai leader will accompany you to the border. Once there, you will meet your Cambodian Tour leader who will guide you through the rest of the journey by local bus to Siem Reap.

Today, you have the freedom to delve into the awe-inspiring jungle temple complex of Angkor. Spanning a remarkable 600-year history from the 9th to the 15th centuries, these temples are a testament to ancient grandeur. Your time in Siem Reap is yours to design, and your tour leader is eager to assist you in organizing any desired visits. Whether you opt for a bicycle adventure or negotiate a ride on a traditional tuk-tuk, the options are endless. Explore the iconic Angkor Wat, a breathtaking jungle masterpiece, or venture to Angkor Thom, a fortified city harboring enigmatic giant faces at the Bayon temple. Lose yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Ta Prohm, its ruins entwined with lush vegetation, famously featured in the Tomb Raider movie. Alternatively, you can set sail along the Roluos River, discovering floating villages and local temples in Kompong Phluk, or uncover the wonders of Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, where a flooded forest beckons. For a glimpse into Cambodia's recent past, the Landmine Museum near Banteay Srei Temple offers a poignant reminder of the country's tragic history. Established in 1997 by a former Khmer Rouge soldier, the museum not only supports landmine victims but also provides valuable insights into one of Cambodia's darkest eras.

Today, immerse yourself in the captivating jungle temple complex of Angkor.

Embark on a scenic 3-hour journey from Siem Reap to Battambang by public bus. This route has witnessed the movement of Thai and Khmer Rouge soldiers, adding historical significance to the picturesque landscape. Battambang, Cambodia's second-largest town, surprises visitors with its tranquil atmosphere, adorned with colonial villas and tree-lined streets. Upon arrival, you may have the opportunity to explore this afternoon, discovering traditional temples and French-colonial architecture.

Embark on a pleasant 6-hour drive to the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city's captivating blend of ancient and colonial heritage. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards adorned with colonial villas, bearing witness to Phnom Penh's turbulent history. As the capital since the mid-15th century, Phnom Penh's origins are rooted in the legend of four Buddha statues found by a woman named Penh on the Mekong's shores. These statues were enshrined in the 14th-century Wat Phnom, perched on a small hill at the city's northern end. After freshening up, join your tour leader for a brief orientation walk, discovering the highlights of this captivating city.

Today is yours to delve further into this captivating city at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Phnom Penh with a visit to the National Museum, housing a remarkable collection of Angkor statues. Admire the splendid Royal Palace, an architectural marvel adorned with intricate Khmer designs and vibrant tiles. For a somber yet important experience, consider visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the haunting 'Killing Fields' of Choeung Ek, offering a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge era. Please note that these sites can be emotionally challenging. Alternatively, embark on a serene Mekong River excursion or explore the bustling markets, such as the renowned Psar Toul Tom Poung, brimming with textiles, jewelry, and antiques. Or simply wander Phnom Penh's vibrant streets, savoring the atmosphere and relaxing at one of the city's charming colonial riverfront bars.

Today, we embark on a scenic bus ride to Ho Chi Minh City, known affectionately as Saigon. This unguided journey lasts approximately 6.5 hours and takes us across the Cambodian-Vietnamese border at Bavet and Moc Bai. Located on the Saigon River and still commonly referred to as 'Saigon,' this vibrant metropolis is Vietnam's largest city. Here, traditional charm coexists harmoniously with the dynamic energy of modern Vietnam, where ancient pagodas and bustling markets thrive alongside the entrepreneurial spirit of the country. Upon arrival, we aim to embark on a brief walking tour to introduce you to some of the city's prominent landmarks, including the magnificent Hotel de Ville, now the seat of the People's Committee, the picturesque Notre Dame Cathedral, and the imposing French-style GPO building. In the event of limited time today, we will reschedule the tour for the following morning.

Today, you have the freedom to choose from a range of captivating activities. You might consider visiting the iconic Reunification Palace and the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum, where poignant reminders of the human toll during the Vietnamese conflict can be found. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Binh Tay Market, the largest wholesale market in southern Vietnam, offering a delightful opportunity to stroll through bustling stalls and connect with locals.

In the morning, we will transfer to the airport for a short flight to Danang, situated in Central Vietnam. From there, we continue our journey by private charter bus to Hoi An. En route, we pass the renowned beach resort of My Khe, also known as China Beach, once frequented by American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Upon our early arrival in Hoi An, while waiting for hotel check-in, we will securely store our bags and enjoy breakfast (not included). Subsequently, we embark on a captivating walking tour of Hoi An. Originally colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Hoi An flourished as a bustling international trading post in the 17th and 18th centuries. Even today, it exudes the enchanting charm of a medieval port, with well-preserved historical buildings. Highlights of the tour include the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, a Buddhist pagoda initially constructed by the Vietnamese in the 16th century, and the Japanese Covered Bridge, a remarkable 400-year-old architectural marvel. Our exploration concludes at the lively riverside market, offering ample opportunities for further personal discoveries. The remainder of the day is yours to savor as you please.

Today, indulge in the enchanting ambiance of Hoi An's historic Old Town, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in its narrow lanes and captivating alleys at your own pace. Consider an early morning escapade to the vibrant fish market, where a symphony of vibrant colors and lively sounds awaits, offering splendid photo opportunities and the chance to engage with the locals. Discover the iconic Japanese Bridge, an emblematic symbol of Hoi An, believed to have been constructed to calm the restless rumblings of a mythical creature. Uncover the allure of traditional wooden houses and Chinese temples that grace the streets. Hoi An is renowned for its multitude of tailor shops, providing affordable and prompt services, tempting most visitors to have at least one custom-made item before their departure. Additionally, Hoi An is an ideal place for bicycle rentals, with quiet roads inviting exploration. If you seek relaxation, a beautiful beach lies just a few kilometers away. Alternatively, venture into nearby villages to delve into their local charm. For those with a culinary inclination, consider partaking in a cooking class—an enticing option in this beloved haven for travelers.

Today, we embark on a captivating journey along the scenic coastal road towards the historically rich city of Hue. Our route takes us through the breathtaking Truong Son Mountains, traversing the magnificent Hai Van Pass, also known as the Sea Cloud Pass. This picturesque region once marked the boundary between Vietnam and the Champa Kingdom, exuding a sense of cultural significance. By midday, we will arrive in the old imperial city, where the remainder of the day is yours to freely explore. Hue, once the capital of Vietnam and a timeless muse for poets and artists, is gracefully divided by the tranquil waters of the Perfume River. The city's 19th-century citadel stands proudly, while the suburbs extend along the eastern shore. Even today, Hue's relaxed atmosphere beckons exploration, making it one of Vietnam's most captivating cities. Enjoy the leisurely ambience as you uncover the city's hidden gems at your own pace.

Today, immerse yourself in the captivating city of Hue, where a multitude of options await to captivate your senses. Marvel at the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, housing the city's oldest monastery and a soaring 21-meter tower that has become an emblem of Hue. This sacred site, dedicated to the Manushi-Buddha, showcases exquisite Buddhist statues and a resounding cast bell weighing over 2000kg, said to be audible from a distance of 10km. Alternatively, venture into the Old Citadel, a commanding presence on the left bank of the Perfume River. Constructed by the Nguyen dynasty, it meticulously mirrors the grandeur of Beijing's Forbidden City with its formal moats and impressive ramparts. Despite the devastating conflicts during the Vietnam War, remnants such as the outer walls and the West Wing poignantly preserve the palace's former splendor. For a deeper exploration, venture to the Perfume Valley, where the Royal Tombs of the Nguyen kings lie amidst lush forests. These unique mausoleums, adorned with intricate details, offer an ideal destination to explore by bicycle. In the afternoon, we will make our way to the railway station, where we embark on an overnight train journey north to Hanoi—the vibrant and historically significant capital of Vietnam.

As we return to Hanoi, your tour leader will lead an enchanting orientation walk through the city, specifically the captivating Old Quarter. Immerse yourself in its narrow streets, each named after the specialized crafts and trades of the artisans that once thrived here. This delightful tradition traces back to the 13th century when the original guilds claimed their respective streets, adding a unique character to the neighborhood. Embark on a foot exploration through the maze-like alleys, where you'll encounter intriguing "tube" houses—narrow facades concealing spacious rooms that stretch deep into the bustling streets. Strolling along the pavement, you'll be enticed by the aromatic offerings of food vendors, tantalizing passersby with delectable noodles, snacks, and sizzling stir-fried dishes. Later in the day, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of traditional water puppetry, an art form deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Red River Delta. Marvel at the remarkable performances set on a stage adorned with water, where captivating tales of legendary heroes and everyday life unfold. Dragons, unicorns, ducks, frogs, and even grand naval battles come to life through this ancient art, which dates back to the 15th century. Prepare to be enchanted by the intricate puppetry, vibrant colors, and even the spectacle of fireworks. Note: The availability of the water puppetry performance may vary.

Hanoi, with its captivating blend of French provincial architecture and tree-lined boulevards, invites you to indulge in its nostalgic allure. Explore the city's remarkable landmarks, such as the picturesque One-Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and the Presidential Palace. While the Presidential Palace itself was not Ho Chi Minh's preferred residence, you can visit his museum and witness the austere mausoleum, reminiscent of Lenin's in Moscow. Alternatively, immerse yourself once again in the lively streets of the Old Quarter, where each corner tells a story. For a change of scenery, venture into the elegant French Quarter on a bicycle, marveling at its grand colonial buildings that stand in stark contrast to the vibrant energy of the old city. Those interested in delving into the history of the colonial wars can explore the Museum of Vietnamese Revolution or the Military History Museum.

After a delightful breakfast at our Hanoi hotel, our journey together comes to an end. There are no planned activities for the day, allowing you the freedom to depart at your convenience. If you have a later flight, you can take advantage of luggage storage facilities at the hotel. For those departing from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), a complimentary airport transfer is available, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes. If time permits, take one last stroll through the captivating Old Quarter or enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque shores of Hoan Kiem Lake.