26 Days Vietnam and Cambodia Tour with Mekong Cruise

Meals: B / L

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will take you on a city tour of Hanoi. You will visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, where you will see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda. Then, you will visit the Temple of Literature, which is Vietnam's first university, and the Ethnology Museum, which showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. In the afternoon, you will visit Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple, a picturesque temple located on a small island in the middle of the lake.

Overnight in Hanoi.

Meals: B / L / D

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be picked up and transferred to Halong Bay, one of Vietnam's most iconic natural wonders. Upon arrival, you will board a luxury cruise ship and enjoy a 1.5-day cruise around the bay. You will have the chance to explore the floating villages, limestone caves, and stunning landscapes of Halong Bay. You will also have the opportunity to participate in activities such as Tai Chi exercises, kayaking, and swimming.

Overnight in Halong Bay Cruise.

Flight: Domestic flight is on Golden Trail Travel arrangement.

Meals: B / L

Start your day with a Tai Chi session on the sundeck of the cruise ship while enjoying the sunrise over the bay. After breakfast, you will continue to explore the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay before returning to the harbor. Then, you will be transferred back to Hanoi for your flight to Hue. Upon arrival in Hue, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight in Hue.

Meals: B / L

After breakfast at your hotel, you will visit the Hue Citadel, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former imperial capital of Vietnam. You will see the Kinh Thanh Hue, Hoang Thanh, Tu Cam Thanh, and Khai Dinh Tomb. In the afternoon, you will take a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River and visit the Thien Mu pagoda, one of the most iconic landmarks in Hue. Finally, you will visit the Minh Mang Tomb, which is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes.

Overnight in Hue.

Meals: B / L

Start your day early in Hue and enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Hoi An. The scenic drive will take you along the coast and through the stunning Hai Van Pass. Along the way, you will see some of Vietnam's most breathtaking scenery, including picturesque fishing villages, pristine beaches, and lush green mountains.

Upon arrival in Hoi An, you will check into your hotel and have some time to relax and freshen up. In the afternoon, you can participate in a traditional lantern-making workshop, a must-do activity in Hoi An. This ancient art form has been practiced in Hoi An for centuries, and you will have the opportunity to learn about its history and create your own beautiful lantern to take home as a souvenir.

After the workshop, you can explore the charming streets of Hoi An and soak up its unique atmosphere. You can visit the night market, sample some of the delicious local cuisines, or simply relax in one of the town's many cafes and enjoy the atmosphere.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: B / L

After breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on a full-day tour of Hoi An and its surrounding areas. The first stop on the tour will be My Son, an ancient Hindu temple complex that dates back to the 4th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive example of the Cham civilization and is a must-see attraction for history and culture buffs.

After My Son, you will visit the Tam Ky House, which is a beautifully preserved 200-year-old merchant's home. This traditional Vietnamese house is a great example of Hoi An's unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architecture.

Finally, you will visit the Museum of Trade Ceramics, which houses an impressive collection of ceramics from Vietnam and other countries in the region. You will learn about the history and significance of ceramic production in Vietnam and its importance in international trade.

After the tour, you will have the rest of the day to explore Hoi An at your leisure. You can take a stroll along the river, visit some of the town's many temples and pagodas, or simply relax on one of the beautiful beaches nearby. Hoi An is a beautiful and charming town, and this tour will give you a great insight into its rich history and culture.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: B / L

Today you will explore the beautiful city of Da Nang and its stunning surroundings. After breakfast at your hotel in Hoi An, you will depart for the famous Golden Bridge in the Ba Na Hills. The Golden Bridge is a unique pedestrian walkway that is supported by two giant stone hands, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

After visiting the Golden Bridge, you will take a cable car to the top of Ba Na Hill, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and the city of Da Nang. You can also explore the French Village and visit the Fantasy Park amusement park, which offers a wide range of rides and attractions.

In the evening, you will return to Hoi An for dinner and have the opportunity to explore the city's charming streets and enjoy the nightlife.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Meals: B / L

Today is all about relaxation and soaking up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Hoi An. After breakfast, you will head to An Bang Beach, one of Hoi An’s most popular beaches. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply relax on the white sand and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.

In the afternoon, you will take a boat trip to Cham Island, which is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You can snorkel, swim, or simply explore the island's stunning scenery and unique wildlife. You can also visit the traditional fishing village and learn about the local culture and way of life.

In the evening, you will return to Hoi An and have dinner at one of the town's many excellent restaurants.

Overnight in Hoi An.

Flight: Domestic flight is on Golden Trail Travel arrangement.

Meals: B / L

After breakfast at your hotel in Hoi An, you will depart for the airport and fly to Dalat, a charming city in Vietnam’s central highlands. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and have some time to relax and explore the city on your own.

In the evening, you can visit the night market and sample some of the delicious local cuisines or simply relax in one of the many cafes and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this beautiful city.

Overnight in Dalat.

Meals: B / L

Today you will explore the highlights of Dalat and its surrounding areas. After breakfast, you will visit Robin Hill and the Dalat Cable Car Station, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

You will then visit the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, a peaceful and tranquil place on a hill overlooking the city. You can enjoy the beautiful views and learn about the history and philosophy of Buddhism in Vietnam.

Next, you will visit Tuyen Lam Lake, which is a stunning natural lake surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. You can take a boat trip on the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.

In the afternoon, you will visit Datanla Waterfall, Bao Dai King's Summer Palace, and the Dalat Flower Garden. You can also visit the giant golden statue of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Cock Church, which are both iconic landmarks of Dalat.

You will return to your hotel in the evening and have dinner at one of the city's excellent restaurants.

Overnight in Dalat.

Meals: B / L

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel in Dalat and transferred to Nha Trang. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Nha Trang.

Overnight in Nha Trang.

Meals: B / L

Start your day with a visit to the Institute of Oceanography, where you will get a chance to learn about the marine life of Nha Trang. Next, visit the Stone Church and Chong Promontory, which offer stunning views of the coastline.

Continue your tour with a visit to the Po Nagar Cham Towers, an ancient Hindu temple, and end your day with a visit to Dam Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Overnight in Nha Trang.

Meals: B/L

Explore the underwater world of Nha Trang with a snorkeling tour to Mun Island, where you can see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun on the beach.

Overnight in Nha Trang.

Flight: Demostic flight  is on Golden Trail Travel arrangement.

Meals: B / L

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel in Nha Trang and driven to Cam Ranh Airport, where you will catch a flight to Saigon. Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be greeted by your local guide who will take you on a half-day tour of Saigon.

Your first stop will be the Notre Dame Cathedral, a beautiful Catholic church French colonists built in the late 19th century. Admire the impressive architecture and learn about the history of this iconic landmark.

Next, you will visit the Saigon Central Post Office, a classic French colonial building that still functions as a post office today. Inside, you will see an ornate interior with intricate details and old-fashioned telephone booths.

Your tour will then take you to the Emperor Jade Pagoda, also known as the Tortoise Pagoda. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor and features statues of deities, mythical creatures, and colorful mosaics.

Finally, you will visit the bustling Ben Thanh Market, one of Saigon’s oldest and largest markets. Here you can shop for souvenirs, sample local food, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Vietnamese market.

After your tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Saigon, where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Your tour will then take you to the Emperor Jade Pagoda, also known as the Tortoise Pagoda. This Taoist temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor and features statues of deities, mythical creatures, and colorful mosaics.

Finally, you will visit the bustling Ben Thanh Market, one of Saigon’s oldest and largest markets. Here you can shop for souvenirs, sample local food, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Vietnamese market.

After your tour, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Saigon, where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Overnight in Saigon.

Meals: B /L

After you've finished breakfast at the hotel, your private guide and car will greet you and escort you to visit Agricultural Villages from 8:30 am – 10:00 am. Then you will try cooking Challenges 10:00 am -1:30 pm.

Next, you'll take your adventures underground for an adventure in history you won't forget with a visit to 7/9 the Cu Chi Tunnels. Discover these amazing systems developed by the guerrillas fighting in the Vietnam War.

You'll have an opportunity to see the various weapons used in the war on display. Then you'll be taken to see the innovative ways the guerrillas survived and fought back in the war. See how they built an impressive underground system as your tour guide tells the stories and history of the Vietnam War.

Then you'll have the chance to see rice paper and coconut candy being made. Afterward, you'll enjoy jasmine tea and a boiled cassava root snack, a common food that guerrillas ate during the war. You'll return back to Saigon.

Overnight in Saigon.

Meals: B / L / D

At 11:30 A.M, our guide will await you at Park Hyatt Saigon, then transfer to the Mekong Princess docking at Saigon Port - 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. Once aboard, a safety briefing as soon as you embarked will take place in the Ramvong Lounge. You will be welcomed by your Vietnamese and Cambodian ship’s crew before embarking on the most extraordinary journey of discovery.

Lunch, with highly attentive oriental hospitality, will be served soon after departure as we cruise along the Saigon River. Having settled into your luxurious suites, you can relax, enjoy the new scenes, and watch the world pass by.

We sail at midday through the Saigon River, Soai Rap River, Nuoc Man Canal, Vam Co River, and Cho Gao Canal to the ‘Mighty Mekong River’.

Late in the day, we anchor in the heart of the Mekong Delta, time to enjoy crafted cocktails by our skilled bartenders and watch the sunsets and sampans passing by. A traditional Vietnamese “A La Carte” dinner will be served in the Indochina onboard Restaurant, embracing a subtle fusion of dishes for the most delicate palates.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L / D

This morning, sampans take you through a channel lined with mangroves. We will try one of the most popular local transportation, named “xe lam” (three-wheeler), to visit a local coconut candy maker.

After watching the candy-making process, walking through the village to visit an orchard where fruits native to Vietnam can be seen in various stages of maturity on the vine. After a fresh fruit tasting, you continue to a pier where you board small, local boats for a trip through the narrow creeks lined with Nipah palm before returning to the ship.

This afternoon, the ship sails through an area of the Mekong Delta barely touched by tourism to Can Tho city, known as Tay Do - the capital of the Mekong Delta. Guests will take a short and orientated city tour by visiting to the Zihuang Pagoda (Chua Ong) and enjoying the welcome unicorn dances. Explore on your own around the charming city before having dinner onboard.

The ship docks in Can Tho overnight.

*Onboard activity: Lecture on Vietnam, Vietnam’s People, Culture & Colonial History.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L / D

We start our morning before breakfast aboard the sampans for a cruise through the fascinating Cai Rang floating market near Can Tho. The sampans will weave in and out of the many boats that sail into the market each morning to sell produce and other items the residents of the Mekong Delta need in their daily lives. As they weave through the market, there will be many opportunities for amazing photographs while enjoying fresh fruit and the Vietnamese “anti-aging drink,” fresh coconut water. Before returning to the ship for a sumptuous buffet breakfast, we stop at a local noodle factory, where we witness the amazing process of how they are made.

After lunch, continue the excursion by boat to Hoa An village, which is untouched and well-known for flower growing and handmade crafts. Our first stop at the flower gardens, where we will see many different kinds of flowers and learn how to grow and take care of them. Then, a short walk to a local house and chat with the host to see how they live and work in their daily lives.

After a short break, continue our excursion on a motor trishaw to another village. We stop by the conical hat-making families and have a memorable time chatting with local family members and learning how to create products. Enjoy your walk in the peaceful village with rice fields and fruit trees in between visiting a few local families.

The Princess sails and anchors near Gieng Island.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L /D

After breakfast, we board sampans that will take us to Gieng Island. After a short walk around the local sampan village, where sampans are produced daily by local families, we take a canal drive to explore the mango gardens along the riverbanks. We will try one of the most popular local transportation, “xe loi” (motor trishaw), driving through this island to visit a Phanxico Monastery.

This afternoon, we will visit the local island village of Hong Ngu, not far from the Vietnam-Cambodia border. Hong Ngu produces a large number of traditional Khmer scarves exported to Cambodia. Woven in many homes around the village, here we have the opportunity to see the weaving process under several homes.

Some villagers are also embroidery artists, displaying their art in and around their homes. The inhabitants of this area had only encountered a few Western visitors prior to the arrival of the Mekong Princess, they are especially friendly and welcoming. Guests will also visit the local temple dedicated to a unique religion founded in this area of Vietnam, Hoa Hao.

This late afternoon, the Mekong Princess will arrive at the border area to complete exit procedures and continue up the Mekong River to Phnom Penh (capital of the Kingdom

Cambodia).

*Onboard activity: Cooking Class Demonstration by our Executive Chef.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L / D

Our Princess will dock at Phnom Penh port. After completing immigration procedures to Cambodia, local cyclo drivers meet you for an exciting city tour of Phnom Penh. You begin your ride along the riverfront to the Royal Palace.

A leisurely walk takes you through the grounds and perfectly manicured gardens, with opportunities to visit the Throne Hall and Moonlight Pavilion. Upon crossing into the second section of the complex, you walk amongst enormous stupas and spirit houses on the way to the famous Silver Pagoda, home of Cambodia’s Emerald Buddha and Maitreya Buddha, encrusted with more than 9,000 diamonds.

Following a short break, your cyclos will take you to the National Museum. Housing the largest pre-Angkorian and Angkorian holdings in Cambodia, the National Museum ends the morning tour with a comprehensive look at many of the artifacts excavated around the Angkor Archeological Area in Siem Reap, as well as other areas around the former Khmer Empire.

The ship docks in Phnom Penh overnight.

*Onboard activity: Fruit Carvings & Tropical Fruits Demonstration; Lecture on Cambodia’s Geography and Life along the Mekong River by your host.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L /D

This morning, a private motor coach takes you on a scenic 45-minute drive from the ship, arriving at Choeung Ek, the killing fields depicted in the movie and the center of the darkest days of Cambodian history.

You may walk through the fields, visit the small museum and Memorial Stupa, and learn more about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime. On the return drive to Phnom Penh, a stop is made at Tuol Sleng (infamously known as S-21), which was converted by the Khmer Rouge from a large school to a prison and torture headquarters.

This afternoon is free at leisure for your own exploration of the charming city of Phnom Penh. This evening before dinner, enjoy the entertainment onboard with a cultural performance including Apsara, Cambodia’s national dance, as well as several traditional folk dances.

The ship docks in Phnom Penh overnight.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meals: B / L / D

The Mekong Princess leaves Phnom Penh and sails to Angkor Ban. We start the afternoon tour with a visit to the charming and authentic town of Angkor Ban. Here, we witness the daily life of the local people, starting with a visit to the pagoda with a special blessing ceremony for our guests by local monks, then we keep going on visiting a local family’s home to meet them and discuss their lifestyle. We continue through the village to the local school, where we join the children in their classrooms and experience their typical school day. The ship sails to Kampong Cham and docks overnight.

Overnight on the cruise.

Meal: B / L / D

Enjoy a sumptuous Breakfast Buffet in the Indochine Restaurant. After breakfast, we disembark the Mekong Princess in Kampong Cham. Transfer by motor coach to Siem Reap. Arrive at Siem Reap Hotel. After that, explore the Angkor Thom complex, which includes several other impressive temples and structures. Finally, end your day at the world-renowned Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Marvel at the impressive architecture and intricate carvings as you learn about the history and significance of this site.

In the evening, attend an Apsara dancing show, a traditional Khmer dance performance that showcases Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Meals: B / L

Today, head out of the city to explore some of the surrounding areas. Begin with a visit to Banteay Srei Temple, a smaller temple that is known for its intricate carvings and pink sandstone walls. Then, head to Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Take a boat tour to see the floating villages, where you'll get a glimpse of daily life for the local communities who live on the lake. Finally, visit Kampong Phluk, one of the most popular floating villages, where you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life.

This two-day itinerary will give you a great overview of the history, culture, and natural beauty of Siem Reap and the surrounding areas. Don't forget to try some of the delicious Khmer cuisine, such as fish amok and lok lak, and to pick up some souvenirs at the local markets.

Overnight in Siem Reap.

Flight: International flight on your own arrangement or on request

Meals: B

On your last day in Siem Reap, you can spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or doing any last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Check out of your hotel by noon and arrange for transportation to the airport or your next destination. If you have time before your departure, you may want to visit some of the local markets to pick up souvenirs or try some more Khmer cuisine.

Before leaving Siem Reap, take a moment to reflect on your trip and the amazing experiences you've had in this fascinating city. Whether you're departing to head back home or moving on to your next adventure, Siem Reap is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

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