18-day Itinerary Vietnam – Cambodia -Thailand | Best 2025-26

Experience Southeast Asia in 18 Days with Authentic Adventures

Travelers seeking an immersive journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand will find this 18-day guided tour an appealing option. Priced at $2,859 per person, it covers major highlights like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap, and Phuket — all with flights, accommodation, meals, and entrance fees included. With a focus on stress-free convenience, this tour offers hotel pickups and drop-offs, expert guides, and a well-curated mix of landscapes, history, and local culture.

What we especially like about this tour is its attention to detail and authenticity. First, the expert guides — like Tran — earn rave reviews for their knowledge and friendliness, making each site both educational and fun. Second, the careful planning of activities, from kayaking in Lan Ha Bay to exploring ancient temples at Angkor, guarantees you’ll experience the best of each location without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

A potential consideration is the fixed schedule, which may limit spontaneous exploring or off-the-beaten-path adventures. If you prefer complete flexibility or want to customize your trip on the fly, a more independent approach might suit you better.

This tour suits history buffs, nature lovers, and culturally curious travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience with the reassurance of a knowledgeable team managing logistics. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll appreciate the balance of guided visits and free time.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and entry fees are covered, reducing planning stress.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to UNESCO sites, floating markets, and bustling city streets offer genuine local flavor.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Tran receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.
• Well-Planned Itinerary: Carefully curated stops ensure a diverse mix of city sights, natural beauty, and historic landmarks.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicles, domestic flights, and boat trips make travel smooth.
• Authentic Accommodation: Hotels are located in prime areas, often in the best parts of each city.

A Deep Dive into the 18-Day Southeast Asia Tour

Traveling through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand in just over two weeks might sound ambitious, but this guided tour makes it possible—and enjoyable. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of the Mekong Delta, to the ancient temples of Angkor and the beaches of Phuket, this trip touches on many of Southeast Asia’s most captivating sights.

Starting in Hanoi — Vietnam’s Cultural Heart

Your journey begins in Hanoi, where after a smooth hotel transfer, you’re free to explore the city’s vibrant streets. The next day, the tour kicks off with a visit to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its stunning limestone karsts. A highlight here is the cruise through Lan Ha Bay, often described as a “special and unique cruise” that lets you soak in the scenery and enjoy activities such as kayaking and swimming in the Tra Bau Fishing Village area.

Several reviewers emphasize the quality of the cruise experience, with one noting it was “incredible and thought out” and praising the sunset party, jacuzzi, and delicious onboard meals. The early morning Tai Chi session watching the sunrise is a peaceful moment many travelers cherish.

City and Cultural Exploration in Hanoi and Da Nang

Back on land, you’ll visit Hanoi’s historic sites like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake, experiencing Vietnam’s scholarly and spiritual traditions. The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers insights into the country’s diverse ethnic groups, adding depth to your understanding of Vietnam’s cultural fabric.

Later, a domestic flight to Da Nang sends you to Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed town renowned for its ancient architecture. Here, the focus is on My Son Sanctuary—an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site—and exploring Hội An’s colorful markets, Old House of Tan Ky, and the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. Many reviews highlight the charming Old Town and the opportunity to shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

From Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City

After a leisurely morning in Hoi An, you fly south to Ho Chi Minh City, where the blend of French colonial architecture and Vietnamese vibrancy awaits. The tour includes visits to Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the War Remnants Museum, offering poignant insights into Vietnam’s recent history. The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see, providing a tangible connection to the resilience of Vietnamese soldiers during the war.

Travelers consistently praise guides like Tran for knowing the stories behind each site and making the history engaging. One reviewer mentions how the tunnels helped them understand Vietnam’s wartime resilience in a very memorable way.

The Mekong Delta — A Waterworld of Flavors and Colors

A two-day exploration of the Mekong Delta offers a break from city sights with boat rides through the floating markets of My Tho and Cai Rang. Here, you’ll see local workshops producing coconut candies and rice paper, and experience the slow pace of life on the water. Many travelers say this part of the trip is “amazing” and “full of authentic charm”.

Transition to Cambodia — Angkor’s Ancient Marvels

Flying into Siem Reap, your days are filled with visits to Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and the world-famous Angkor Wat. The guide’s expertise shines in explaining the stories behind these temples, making the experience more meaningful. The Overgrown Trees at Ta Prohm captivate many, making it a favorite among nature lovers.

The visit to Koh Ker and Beng Mealea on a separate day adds a sense of adventure, as these less-visited sites are often described as “overgrown” and “mysterious”. One review mentions that the walk through the jungle to Beng Mealea makes you feel like an explorer discovering lost ruins.

Relaxing on Phuket’s Beaches

The last leg takes you to Phuket, where the focus shifts to relaxation. Days are spent lounging on beaches, snorkeling at Bamboo Island, or exploring the Phi Phi Islands. The tour’s flexible schedule allows for plenty of free time, which many reviewers appreciate, describing Phuket as a “paradise for beach lovers”.

Overall Value and Experience

This tour’s value lies in the comprehensive coverage of Southeast Asia’s highlights, coupled with inclusive pricing that simplifies budgeting. The quality of guides, transportation, and accommodations—all praised in reviews—adds to the overall experience. Many travelers comment on the smooth logistics and responsive service, especially from guides like Tran.

While the fixed itinerary may feel somewhat packed for some, it ensures travelers see a wide array of attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors or those wanting a well-organized introduction to the region.

The Sum Up

This 18-day guided tour offers a fantastic combination of culture, history, natural beauty, and relaxation. It is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a stress-free experience with a focus on authentic sights and local flavor. The expert guides and well-organized schedule make it an especially good option for those who want to maximize their time without worrying about logistics.

If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed journey through some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic spots, this tour provides a balanced mix of guided activities and free time. It’s a great choice for families, friends, or solo travelers eager to experience the region’s diversity in a safe, enjoyable way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who want to explore at their own pace?
While the itinerary is quite full, the tour provides some free time in each location, giving you a chance to explore independently or relax.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention that hotels are located in the best parts of each city, and the overall experience is described as “perfectly organized” with good quality hotels.

What type of transportation is used?
You’ll travel mainly in air-conditioned private vehicles, with domestic flights included for longer distances. There are also boat trips, especially in Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is designed for up to 10 travelers, making it more like a small-group experience rather than a large bus tour.

Are meals included?
Yes, the package includes breakfasts (18), lunches (10), and dinners (2), offering local cuisine that complements the travel experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility in your planning.

Is this tour good for first-timers in Southeast Asia?
Absolutely. The well-organized schedule, expert guides, and inclusive features make it ideal for travelers new to the region who want to see the highlights confidently.

In summary, this 18-day Southeast Asia tour from Authentic Adventures offers a well-balanced, authentic, and hassle-free way to discover some of the most captivating sights of Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or beach bum, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and plenty of reasons to start packing.