Thailand to Vietnam Classic Journey: 13 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand, the Land of Smiles. Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang International Airport, you will meet our local representative and transfer to your hotel in central Bangkok.

After checking in, the remainder of the day is free for you to relax after your flight or begin exploring the surrounding neighborhood independently. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit a riverside market, sample authentic Thai street food or enjoy Bangkok’s illuminated skyline.

Meals: None
Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

Day 2: Bangkok Temples and Canal Discovery

After enjoying breakfast, you will begin your introduction to Thailand with a visit to the spectacular Grand Palace, once the official residence of the Kings of Siam. Within the palace grounds, you will explore Wat Phra Kaew, home to the highly revered Emerald Buddha.

Then, you will continue to visit Wat Pho, one of Bangkok’s oldest temples and the location of the impressive Reclining Buddha. You will then board a traditional long-tail boat for a cruise along the Chao Phraya River and the narrow canals of Thonburi. Here, you can observe wooden houses, local communities and waterside temples that reveal a quieter side of the Thai capital.

Concluding your sightseeing at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn, whose porcelain-decorated tower is among Bangkok’s most recognizable landmarks. Next, you will return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bangkok

Day 3: Bangkok – Chiang Rai

In the morning, you will enjoy breakfast at hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight to Chiang Rai in northern Thailand. Upon arrival, you will meet our local tour guide and begin exploring the province’s most distinctive attractions.

Firstly, you will visit Wat Rong Suea Ten, better known as the Blue Temple, admired for its vivid blue interiors, elaborate carvings and contemporary Buddhist artwork. Next, you will continue to visit Baan Dam Museum, or the Black House. This is a fascinating collection of traditional northern buildings and thought-provoking artworks created by Thai artist Thawan Duchanee.

After the tour, you will be transferred to your hotel. The evening is free to discover Chiang Rai’s relaxed atmosphere and colorful night bazaar.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Rai

Day 4: Chiang Rai – White Temple – Chiang Mai

Following breakfast, you will visit the celebrated Wat Rong Khun, commonly known as the White Temple. Its brilliant white exterior, mirrored mosaics and imaginative artwork make it one of Thailand’s most remarkable contemporary landmarks.

Afterward, you will continue to visit Wat Huay Pla Kang, a peaceful temple complex known for its towering white statue and panoramic countryside views. Then, you will travel through the mountainous landscapes of northern Thailand toward Chiang Mai, with a short rest stop along the way.

Arriving in Chiang Mai in the late afternoon and check in at your hotel. You will spend the evening exploring the old town or browsing the city’s lively night market.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

Day 5: Chiang Mai Cultural Heritage Tour

After having breakfast, you will explore Chiang Mai’s historic center, beginning at Wat Chedi Luang. This important temple is dominated by a centuries-old chedi that once housed the Emerald Buddha. Then, you will continue to visit Wat Phra Singh, renowned for its elegant Lanna architecture and sacred Buddha image.

Next, you will stroll through a local market, where fresh produce, spices, flowers and regional specialties offer an authentic glimpse into everyday life. Later, you will drive up Doi Suthep Mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of northern Thailand’s most revered temples. Here, you also climb the naga-lined staircase or take the cable car to the temple terrace, where sweeping views extend over Chiang Mai.

Returning to your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Chiang Mai

Day 6: Chiang Mai – Hanoi

After having breakfast, you will enjoy free time until your transfer to Chiang Mai International Airport for the flight to Hanoi. Depending on the flight schedule, the journey may include a connection in Bangkok.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will meet our Vietnamese representative and transfer to your hotel in Hanoi. The rest of the day is available for relaxation or an independent walk through the Old Quarter. Where narrow streets, traditional shops and local food stalls reflect the capital’s enduring character.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Day 7: Hanoi Classic City Tour

Following breakfast, you will begin a full-day exploration of Vietnam’s historic capital. Firstly, you will visit the Ho Chi Minh Complex, including Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace grounds and Ho Chi Minh’s traditional stilt house. Continue to the nearby One Pillar Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s most recognizable religious monuments.

Next, you will discover the Temple of Literature, founded in 1070 and later developed as Vietnam’s first national university. Its courtyards, ancient trees and stone stelae provide insight into the country’s long scholarly tradition.

In the afternoon, you will visit the historic Temple of Ngoc Son beside Hoan Kiem Lake. Afterward, you will continue enjoying with a cyclo ride or guided walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter. It’s passing streets traditionally associated with different crafts and merchant guilds. The tour concludes with a traditional water puppet performance, an art form originating in the villages of northern Vietnam.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Hanoi

Day 8: Hanoi – Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

After enjoying breakfast, you will depart Hanoi for Halong Bay, traveling through the countryside of the Red River Delta. On arrival at the cruise terminal, you will complete the boarding procedures and receive a welcome drink as the vessel begins sailing into the bay.

Next, you will enjoy lunch while cruising among spectacular limestone pillars, forested islands and secluded coves. During the afternoon, you will join the cruise program, which may include a cave visit, kayaking, swimming. Or a bamboo-boat excursion, depending on weather conditions and the selected vessel.

Finishing the day, you will return to the boat in time for sunset. You may participate in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration before enjoying dinner onboard. Or spending a peaceful night surrounded by the extraordinary scenery of Halong Bay.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
 Accommodation: Overnight cruise on Halong Bay

Day 9: Halong Bay – Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City

You will begin the morning with an optional Tai Chi session on the sundeck as the sun rises over the limestone islands. Then enjoying breakfast or brunch while the cruise continues through the bay.

A final excursion may be arranged according to the cruise itinerary before you return to the harbor and disembark. Transfer to Hanoi airport for your flight to Ho Chi Minh City.

Upon arrival, you will meet your local representative and continue to your centrally located hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to relax or explore Vietnam’s largest city independently.

Meals: Breakfast or brunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: Ho Chi Minh City Heritage Tour

In the morning, you will enjoy breakfast at hotel, then discovering the historic and architectural landmarks of central Ho Chi Minh City. Firstly, you will visit the Independence Palace, where significant events marking the end of the Vietnam War took place in 1975.

Next, you will continue to visit the War Remnants Museum for an informative introduction to Vietnam’s modern history. You will also see the red-brick Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica from the exterior and visit the nearby Saigon Central Post Office. This is an outstanding example of French colonial architecture.

Then, you will walk along Dong Khoi Street and view other historic buildings, including the Saigon Opera House and City Hall. Completing the tour at Ben Thanh Market, where local vendors sell handicrafts, textiles, spices, souvenirs and Vietnamese specialties.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 11: Cu Chi Tunnels Experience

You will enjoy breakfast before traveling northwest of Ho Chi Minh City to the Cu Chi Tunnels. This vast underground network was used as shelter, communication routes, living quarters and supply routes during wartime.

Firstly, our tour guide will explain how the tunnel system was constructed and how people survived underground in challenging conditions. Then, exploring the forested site, you can see concealed entrances and ventilation systems, and enter an enlarged section of tunnel if you feel comfortable doing so.

After the visit, you will return to Ho Chi Minh City. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure for shopping, visiting a café or discovering the city at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City – Mekong Delta Excursion

After having breakfast, you will leave the city for the fertile Mekong Delta. On arrival in the My Tho or Ben Tre area, you will board a motorboat and cruise along the Mekong River, passing fishing boats, river islands and local riverside communities.

Next, you will continue traveling through smaller waterways by sampan, shaded by water coconut palms. You also visit a family-run workshop to learn how traditional coconut products or regional sweets are prepared. Depending on local arrangements, you may also walk through a fruit garden, taste tropical fruits and listen to southern Vietnamese folk music.

Then, you will enjoy lunch featuring local dishes before returning to Ho Chi Minh City in the late afternoon. Your final evening is free for a farewell dinner or last-minute shopping.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City

Day 13: Ho Chi Minh City Departure

In the morning, you will enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you will spend some free time relaxing, purchasing souvenirs. Or exploring nearby attractions.

At the appointed time, our driver will transfer you to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your onward flight. Your memorable 13-day journey through Thailand and Vietnam comes to an end.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: None

• Admire Bangkok’s magnificent Grand Palace and sacred Wat Phra Kaew.
• Cruise through Bangkok’s traditional canals aboard a long-tail boat.
• Discover Chiang Rai’s extraordinary White Temple and Blue Temple.
• Experience the temples, markets and distinctive Lanna culture of Chiang Mai.
• Visit the mountaintop Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and enjoy panoramic city views.
• Explore Hanoi’s historic monuments and atmospheric Old Quarter.
• Spend an unforgettable night cruising through UNESCO-listed Halong Bay.
• Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial architecture and wartime history.
• Venture underground through the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels.
• Cruise along the Mekong Delta and experience everyday life in rural southern Vietnam.
• Enjoy a seamless journey connecting Thailand and Vietnam’s classic destinations.

Tour Inclusions

• Twelve nights’ accommodation with 4-star hotels, including one night aboard a Halong Bay cruise.
• Daily breakfast from Day 2 to Day 13
• Meals specifically stated in the itinerary
• Airport transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Transportation for scheduled sightseeing and excursions
• Experienced English-speaking local guides
• Entrance fees for attractions listed in the itinerary
• Bangkok canal excursion by long-tail boat
• Halong Bay cruise and scheduled onboard activities
• Mekong Delta motorboat and sampan excursions
• Drinking water during guided touring days
• Domestic and regional economy-class flights when included in the confirmed quotation
• Applicable service charges and local taxes

Tour Exclusions

• International flights to Bangkok and from Ho Chi Minh City
• Flights not expressly included in the final quotation
• Thailand and Vietnam visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
• Hotel early check-in and late check-out
• Optional excursions and personal expenses
• Camera or video fees where locally applicable
• Tips for guides, drivers and cruise staff
• Services arising from flight changes, severe weather or other circumstances beyond the tour operator’s control

Important Notes

• The itinerary may be adjusted according to flight schedules, local conditions and weather while preserving the principal experiences.
• Direct flights between Chiang Mai and Hanoi may not operate daily. A connecting flight via Bangkok or another regional hub may therefore be required.
• Grand Palace visitors must wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
• The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is normally closed on Mondays, Fridays and during its annual maintenance period. The surrounding complex can still be visited where permitted.
• Halong Bay activities depend on weather, maritime authority approval and the program of the selected cruise.
• The sequence of Mekong Delta activities may change according to water levels and local operations.
• Travelers should verify passport validity, entry rules and visa requirements for both Thailand and Vietnam before departure.
• Hotel check-in is generally available from 14:00 and check-out is usually required by 12:00.
• Dietary requirements should be provided when booking so that suitable arrangements can be requested.