Vietnam And Cambodia At A Glance 9 Days

From: $552 4-star hotels

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Duration

9 Days

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English

About this tour

Hanoi – Halong Bay – Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta – Siem Reap – Angkor Wat

For those fascinated by the allure, heritage, and richness of Indochina, this 9-day journey through Vietnam and Cambodia offers an ideal exploration. Delve into the captivating ambiance of Hanoi, blending unique charm with ancient history, and cruise amidst the thousands of limestone islands and caves of Halong Bay. Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm of life in Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the renowned Angkor Wat temples in Siem Reap, a welcoming and tourist-friendly city in Cambodia. Join us in unraveling the diverse cultures, people, and landscapes that define the essence of Vietnam and Cambodia.

Included/Excluded

* Throughout the tour, guests will be accommodated exclusively in 4- and 5-star hotels.
* Accommodation based on twin or double sharing room
* All transfers and road transport in modern, air-conditioned vehicles if specified in the program
* Meals as mentioned in the program. B-Breakfast, Br-Brunch, L-Lunch, D-Dinner
* Your tour guide is a professional, fully trained employee of VTP Travel
* Entrance fees if specified in the program
* Airfares, Cruise, Train, Sleeper bus if specified in the program.

* Compulsory tips for tour guide and driver
* Meals not mentioned in the program
* Single Supplement. Early check-in and late check-out. Hotel/Room upgrade
* Drinks, personal expenses and any services not clearly mentioned in the program
* Surcharge for the festive seasons
* Applicable Government Taxes and other service charges.
* The tour cost does not include POE charges and passport charges.
* Porterage Facility

Hotel List:
To view the list and detailed information about the hotels used in the tour

Please click here: View Hotel List

Itinerary

Morning / Afternoon

Our designated tour guide will escort you to the pre-booked hotel.

Check-in time is at 2 pm; early check-in may require an additional surcharge.

Optional:

Take a leisure break at the hotel to recover from your journey.

Explore more of Vietnam's capital with our optional activities:

Thang Long Water Puppet Show: Experience a traditional water puppet performance depicting Vietnamese folklore.

Vietnamese Cooking Class or Food Tour: Indulge in the delightful flavors of Vietnamese cuisine and discover the art of cooking traditional dishes.

Meals: NA
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Our tour guide will be waiting for you at Pole No.10 (Outside the Terminal Gate) upon airport arrival. The departure time for the half-day tour (by car or motorbike) will depend on availability and may be scheduled either in the morning or afternoon.

<span> Day 2</span> Hanoi City Tour Half day

Morning / Afternoon

The timing of the departure, either in the morning or afternoon, will be determined based on availability. A half-day tour can be arranged, with options for transportation by car or motorbike.

At 8:00 am or 13:30 pm: Explore the Temple of Literature, a renowned historical complex in Hanoi, marking Vietnam’s first national university.

Visit the One Pillar Pagoda, an iconic temple situated in a lake, featuring a square structure resting on a stone pillar resembling a lotus flower.

Tour the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the final resting place of Vietnam's revered leader.

Discover the Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, boasting a history of over 1500 years.

Evening

Enjoy dinner at a local Vietnamese restaurant and unwind for the remainder of the day.
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi
Activities: - Explore ancient landmarks: Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda.

Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
Explore the Tran Quoc Pagoda.
Car tours are available upon customer request.

<span> Day 3</span> Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise

Morning

Complete the check-in procedures upon arrival at the cruise, where you'll receive a warm welcome with a refreshing drink.

Delight in the mesmerizing views of the emerald waters and the myriad towering limestone islands scattered throughout Halong Bay.

Savor a delectable lunch featuring an array of fresh seafood.

Afternoon

Engage in various activities offered by the cruise, such as kayaking, swimming, or exploring fascinating caves.
Evening

Indulge in a sumptuous dinner on the cruise.

Unwind with a drink on the sun deck or partake in the enchanting night squid fishing.

Accommodation: Overnight on cruise
Activities: - Enjoy sightseeing.

Participate in kayaking, swimming, and squid fishing.

Please note that specific activities may vary depending on the cruise itinerary. For additional details, feel free to contact us. - It's important to note that our tour guide will not accompany you on the cruise. Knowledgeable cruise staff fluent in English will assist you throughout the Halong Bay excursion.

<span> Day 4</span> Halong Bay - Hanoi - Flight To Ho Chi Minh City

Morning

Immerse yourself in the vibrant sunrise and commence the day with a brief Tai Chi session.

Following a delightful breakfast, embark on a guided exploration of the captivating caves within the bay.

Enjoy an early lunch upon your return.

Head back to the cruise port and transfer to Hanoi.

Between 12:00 and 12:30, you will be transported to Hanoi airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport, our driver will be there to take you to a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City.
Evening

Complete the check-in process at the hotel and unwind for the remainder of the day.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Activities: - Partake in a Tai Chi lesson.

Delve deeper into the exploration of the bay.

<span> Day 5</span> Cu Chi Tunnels - Sightseeing Tour

Morning

Commence the day at 8:00 am with a journey to Cu Chi Tunnels, an interconnected tunnel system situated approximately 60km north of Ho Chi Minh City.

Delve into the underground tunnels, gaining profound insights into the history of the Vietnam War.

Optionally, seize the opportunity to handle a real firearm with the available firing-gun services (at an additional charge).

Savor lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon

At 1:30 pm, visit the Reunification Palace, a significant symbol of Saigon's liberation.

Immerse yourself in the colonial architectural ambiance of Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office.

Take a leisurely stroll through a local market, acquiring souvenirs and experiencing the warmth and friendliness of the local people.

Retreat to your hotel and unwind for the remainder of the day.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Activities: - Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Tour Reunification Palace, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and Old Post Office.
Wander through a local market.

<span> Day 6</span> Full Day Trip To Mekong Delta

Morning:

At 08:00, you will be conveyed from your hotel to Ben Tre Province.

Delight in the scenic beauty of Ham Luong River by boat, making halts at local workplaces.

Bask in the serene moments while strolling through the village in the Mekong Delta.

Journey to fruit orchards via a xe loi, a form of motorized rickshaw.

Afternoon:

Embark on a sampan ride to navigate the narrow canals.

Around 17:00, return to your hotel and unwind.

Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh
Activities: - Explore Ben Tre Province and Ham Luong River.

Traverse fruit orchards.
Navigate through canals.

<span> Day 7</span> Ho Chi Minh - Fly To Siem Reap

Morning:

Enjoy leisure time for self-exploration of the city.

Check out from the hotel by noon. Late check-out is possible with an additional fee, subject to room availability.

Afternoon:

Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City Airport for a flight to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap Airport, transfer to your hotel.

Engage in a city tour visiting Angkor National Museum and Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine.

Return to the hotel after a fulfilling day.

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Activities: - Explore Angkor National Museum and Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm Shrine.

<span> Day 8</span> Siem Reap Temple Discovery Tour

Morning

Begin the day at 8:00 am with a visit to Ta Prohm Temple, a sprawling temple complex from the Khmer empire renowned for its appearance in the blockbuster film "Tomb Raider."

Continue the journey with a local guide to Angkor Thom, the historic capital of the Great Khmer Empire during the reign of Jayavarman VII.

Afternoon

At 1:30 pm, explore Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument, constructed by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century.

Conclude the day by witnessing a breathtaking sunset, either from Angkor Wat or another suitable vantage point.

Accommodation: Hotel in Siem Reap
Activities: - Tour Ta Prohm Temple and Angkor Thom.

Visit Angkor Wat.

Feel free to unwind until your scheduled transfer to Siem Reap International Airport for your departure. The tour concludes.

Accommodation: Not Applicable

Durations

9 - 12 days

Languages

English

Regional Tours

Cambodia

Cambodia & Neighboring Countries

Vietnam

Vietnam & Neighboring Countries

For more information or to book this tour, please click the request button below:

BOOKING REQUEST

PRIVATE CUSTOMISED TRIP

Tour's Location

Hanoi - Halong Bay - Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels - Mekong Delta - Siem Reap - Angkor Wat

The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake - 🐉 The Legend of Hanoi’s West Lake – Between Myth, History, and Timeless Beauty📍 Location: Northwest Hanoi | Free Entry | Open 24/7 🌅 Introduction: Where Myth Meets Modern Hanoi Few places in Hanoi capture the city’s poetic soul quite like West Lake (Hồ Tây). The vast, shimmering expanse of water — stretching over 500 hectares — has been a silent witness to Hanoi’s long and layered history. It’s a place where ancient legends blend effortlessly with modern life, where monks, kings, and mythical creatures once roamed, and where today’s travelers can enjoy lakeside cafés, sunsets, and the calm rhythm of local life. But before the luxury hotels, the trendy restaurants, and the scenic cycling routes, there was a story — a legend that explains how this lake came to be. And it’s one of Vietnam’s most enchanting folktales: The Legend of the Golden Buffalo and the Birth of West Lake. 🛕 The Ancient Tale: How the Golden Buffalo Created West Lake Long ago, when the world was still wrapped in mist and myth, a virtuous monk journeyed to China to heal the emperor’s mysterious illness. Out of gratitude, the emperor rewarded him with a generous gift of bronze. The monk, humble and devoted, donated most of the bronze to the state upon returning to Vietnam. Yet with the small portion he kept, he crafted a magnificent bronze bell — a bell so pure and resonant that its sound rolled across mountains and rivers, echoing far beyond human lands. 🐮 Far away in the imperial treasury of China, there lived a golden buffalo calf. Hearing the divine sound of the bell, the calf mistook it for its mother’s call and began charging south toward the origin of the sound. It ran tirelessly across valleys and plains until it reached Hanoi. But when the bell stopped ringing, the confused calf spun in circles, digging deep into the earth in its frantic search. The ground caved in, forming a massive hollow — which soon filled with water and became West Lake (Hồ Tây). According to legend, the golden buffalo still lies deep beneath the lake’s waters. It’s said that only a man aided by his ten natural sons can one day retrieve it — a symbol of purity, family unity, and divine destiny. 🌊 Between Myth and Reality: The Geographical Story While the legend paints a magical picture, geologists and historians offer a more down-to-earth explanation. West Lake was likely formed thousands of years ago as a lagoon left behind by the shifting Red River (Sông Hồng). Over time, the river’s course changed, creating a narrow land strip between the lake and the river, reinforced later by human-made embankments. But even the scientific truth doesn’t erase the poetry of the place. The lake’s still waters continue to hold the whisper of myth — and perhaps, the quiet pulse of that golden buffalo deep beneath. 👑 A Royal Playground Through the Centuries In Vietnam’s feudal era, West Lake wasn’t just a natural wonder — it was a royal retreat. Monarchs from the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties built summer palaces and spiritual sanctuaries along its banks, seeking tranquility and inspiration. One of the most notable constructions was Trấn Quốc Pagoda, originally founded in the 6th century and known as Vietnam’s oldest pagoda. Sitting gracefully on a small islet connected by a red bridge, it became a sacred center for meditation and royal ceremonies. Even today, monks in saffron robes can be seen tending to the pagoda’s gardens, and visitors come from around the world to light incense, admire the intricate statues, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake at sunset. 🌅 West Lake Today (2025): The Beating Heart of Modern Hanoi Fast-forward to 2025, and West Lake has transformed into Hanoi’s most desirable neighborhood — a mix of traditional charm and cosmopolitan sophistication. Expats, artists, and young professionals call this area home. You’ll find luxury hotels, rooftop bars, craft cafés, yoga studios, and peaceful walking paths circling the water. Despite the modern vibe, the air of legend still lingers — especially at dawn, when mist hangs low and the sound of temple bells drifts across the lake. ✨ What to Experience Around West Lake (2025): 🚴‍♀️ Cycle or walk the 17km perimeter for incredible sunrise and sunset views. 🛕 Visit Trấn Quốc Pagoda, the city’s oldest religious site. 🍵 Enjoy lakeside dining at chic spots like Maison de Tet Décor, El Gaucho Steakhouse, or The Sunset Bar at InterContinental Hanoi Westlake. 🚤 Take a paddle boat ride on the nearby Trúc Bạch Lake, especially at sunset. 📸 Capture iconic Hanoi views from Thanh Niên Street — the narrow causeway separating West Lake and Trúc Bạch Lake. 💬 The Legend Lives On: West Lake in Local Culture The legend of the golden buffalo isn’t just an old folktale — it continues to live in Hanoi’s identity. Local artists, poets, and musicians still reference the mythical creature as a symbol of power, endurance, and prosperity. During the Lunar New Year (Tết), families visit West Lake to release carp into the water — a symbolic act of letting go of misfortune and inviting blessings. Lovers stroll under the flame trees, while elders practice tai chi by the lakeshore, connecting spiritual calm with physical harmony. In every season, the lake changes character:🌸 Spring brings soft blossoms around the temples.☀️ Summer fills the air with lotus fragrance.🍂 Autumn paints the waters gold.❄️ Winter wraps the lake in silver mist. Each phase reflects the rhythm of Hanoi’s heart — gentle, reflective, and eternal. 🌿 Practical Tips for Visiting West Lake in 2025 ✅ Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5–7 am) for sunrise tranquility, or late afternoon (4–6 pm) for magical golden light.✅ Getting There: Only a 10-minute drive from Hanoi’s Old Quarter by motorbike or taxi.✅ Local Eats: Try Bánh tôm Hồ Tây (crispy shrimp pancakes) — a Hanoi specialty born right here by the lakeside.✅ Don’t Miss: Watching the sunset from The Summit Bar at Pan Pacific...Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi - 🇻🇳 Gunners’ Memorial Hanoi – A Silent Witness of Courage and History📍 Location: North of Quan Thanh Temple, along Thanh Nien Street, Hanoi🕒 Open 24/7 • Free Entry 💫 Introduction: Where History Meets the Lakeside Peace of Hanoi As you stroll along Thanh Nien Street, the tree-lined causeway separating West Lake (Ho Tay) and Truc Bach Lake, you’ll come across a modest yet profoundly symbolic monument — the Gunners’ Memorial. Though small in size, this landmark holds immense historical and emotional weight. It honors the Vietnamese anti-aircraft units who defended Hanoi during the American War (Vietnam War), and it marks the very site where U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s plane was shot down in October 1967. Today, the Gunners’ Memorial is more than just a war relic — it’s a poignant reminder of resilience, reconciliation, and how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent years. In 2025, with Hanoi’s lakeside neighborhoods thriving with life and culture, this quiet memorial stands as a powerful symbol of peace and remembrance. ⚔️ A Glimpse Back in Time: The Story Behind the Memorial During the intense bombing campaigns of the late 1960s, anti-aircraft defense teams were stationed around Hanoi to protect key government buildings and cultural landmarks. The Gunners’ Memorial pays tribute to those brave soldiers who operated anti-aircraft cannons in the area — a crucial part of Hanoi’s defense network. On October 26, 1967, during an airstrike over Hanoi, Lieutenant Commander John McCain’s A-4 Skyhawk was struck by a missile launched from this very position. His plane crashed into Truc Bach Lake, just a few meters away from where the memorial now stands. Locals rushed to rescue McCain from the lake before he was taken prisoner — an event that would shape his life for years to come. McCain spent over five years as a prisoner of war in Hoa Lo Prison (nicknamed the “Hanoi Hilton”) before being released in 1973. 🕊️ From Conflict to Connection: The Story’s Human Side What makes this site truly remarkable is not just its wartime legacy, but the spirit of reconciliation it embodies today. When John McCain returned to Hanoi decades later as a U.S. Senator, he stood beside the very lake where he had fallen — not as an enemy, but as a guest and a symbol of friendship between two former foes. Vietnam and the United States have since developed strong diplomatic and economic ties, and sites like the Gunners’ Memorial remind visitors how history, though painful, can evolve into mutual respect and understanding. Standing at the memorial in 2025, you’ll see local couples taking photos, children riding bicycles, and vendors selling coconut ice cream by the lake — everyday life flowing peacefully where once war raged. 🏛️ What to See at the Gunners’ Memorial The memorial itself is small but evocative — a stone monument engraved in Vietnamese, surrounded by flowering shrubs and shaded by tamarind and flame trees. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it, but the simplicity adds to its charm and solemnity. 🔹 Inscription: The plaque honors the anti-aircraft gunners who “bravely fought and shot down enemy planes over Truc Bach Lake.”🔹 Scenic Backdrop: The site offers a serene view of Truc Bach Lake, with reflections of surrounding trees and small cafés — perfect for quiet contemplation.🔹 Nearby Attractions: Within walking distance are Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, and several lakeside coffee shops where you can sit and soak in Hanoi’s tranquil beauty. 📷 Travel Tips for 2025 Visitors ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light over Truc Bach Lake is golden and soft — ideal for photography. 🚶 Getting There: It’s about a 10-minute taxi or motorbike ride from Hanoi Old Quarter. You can also walk along Thanh Nien Street if you’re exploring nearby West Lake. ☕ Where to Rest: After visiting, grab a seat at one of Truc Bach’s cozy lakeside cafés such as Maison de Tet Décor or The Coffee House. Both offer great views and relaxing vibes. 🎧 Combine It With: Visiting Quan Thanh Temple (Guardian of the North) and Tran Quoc Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi — both just a short stroll away. 🧭 Why You Should Visit For travelers interested in Vietnam’s layered history, the Gunners’ Memorial is a must-visit stop. It’s not a grand or heavily visited landmark, but its quiet dignity captures something deeply human — the endurance of memory, the cost of peace, and the beauty of moving forward. Here, history doesn’t shout; it whispers across the calm waters of Truc Bach Lake. You’ll feel the stillness, the reflection — both literal and emotional — that makes Hanoi so captivating. ❤️ Final Thoughts: A Small Monument with a Big Message In a city where ancient temples, colonial architecture, and modern cafés coexist harmoniously, the Gunners’ Memorial serves as a gentle yet powerful bridge between Hanoi’s past and present. It reminds visitors that while the city continues to grow and modernize — with electric scooters, tech startups, and vibrant nightlife — the soul of Hanoi remains grounded in remembrance, gratitude, and humanity. If you ever find yourself wandering between West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, pause here for a few quiet minutes. Listen to the breeze rustling through the trees, watch the ripples on the lake’s surface, and reflect on how far the world has come since 1967. ✨ Travel Tip Recap✅ Location: Thanh Nien Street, between West Lake & Truc Bach Lake✅ Entry: Free, open 24 hours✅ Nearby: Quan Thanh Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Truc Bach cafés✅ Best time: Sunrise or sunset for the most peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Hanoi’s Gunners’ Memorial isn’t just about history — it’s about hope.A story of courage, survival, and the quiet strength that defines Vietnam’s capital.

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From: $552

4-star hotels

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Vietnam And Cambodia At A Glance 9 Days

About this tour

Included/Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1 Hanoi Arrival

Day 2 Hanoi City Tour Half day

Day 3 Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise

Day 4 Halong Bay - Hanoi - Flight To Ho Chi Minh City

Day 5 Cu Chi Tunnels - Sightseeing Tour

Day 6 Full Day Trip To Mekong Delta

Day 7 Ho Chi Minh - Fly To Siem Reap

Day 8 Siem Reap Temple Discovery Tour

Day 9 Siem Reap Departure

Durations

Languages

Regional Tours

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Tour's Location

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