Content [Switch to sidebar]

10 Day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand Tour - Travel Experience By Darell

Hi everyone ! My name is Darell, and I'm excited to share my unforgettable 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour with you. After searching for the perfect multi-country adventure, I booked this tour with Autour Asia to experience Southeast Asia's most iconic destinations in just ten days. From cruising through the breathtaking limestone landscapes of Halong Bay and exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor to discovering Bangkok's vibrant markets and historic landmarks, every stop offered something unique. In this article, I'll share my complete Vietnam Cambodia Thailand trip, including my day-by-day itinerary, transportation, memorable experiences, and favorite local dishes to give you a closer look at this incredible journey across three countries.

1. Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

After landing at Noi Bai International Airport, I was greeted by my driver and transferred directly to Rex Hanoi Hotel, where check-in was quick and hassle-free. After settling in, I couldn't wait to try my first bowl of Phở Bò at a small local eatery near the hotel. The rich, slow-simmered broth, tender slices of beef, fresh herbs, and silky rice noodles made for a simple yet comforting introduction to Vietnamese cuisine and the perfect start to my Vietnam Cambodia Thailand itinerary 10 days.

As the sun began to set, I headed to the peaceful Hoan Kiem Lake, crossed the iconic red The Huc Bridge, and admired the beautifully illuminated St. Joseph's Cathedral. The lively streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter were filled with locals, scooters, and small cafés on every corner, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Before returning to the hotel, I enjoyed a classic Tràng Tiền ice cream, with its light, creamy texture providing the perfect way to end my first day during 10 days in Southeast Asia.

2. Day 2 : Tam Coc

Leaving Hanoi at around 8:00 AM by limousine shuttle, I arrived in Hoa Lu after a comfortable two-hour journey. Wandering through the historic 10th-century temples of the Dinh and Le Dynasties gave me a deeper appreciation of Hoa Lu's role as Vietnam's ancient capital. By lunchtime, I enjoyed crispy Cơm Cháy served with tender Ninh Binh goat meat, a local specialty that became one of the culinary highlights of my 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour.

What impressed me most that afternoon was the peaceful boat ride along the Ngo Dong River. A local rower gently guided the sampan through Hang Ca, Hang Hai, and Hang Ba, three natural caves carved by water over thousands of years. Towering limestone cliffs, lush rice fields, and shimmering reflections on the calm river created an incredibly scenic landscape that perfectly captured the beauty of 10 days in Vietnam Cambodia Thailand.

Later, I explored the countryside on a relaxing 5 km cycling route before stopping at the peaceful Bich Dong Pagoda, nestled against the limestone cliffs. The quiet surroundings and panoramic views offered a refreshing contrast to the energy of Hanoi. Returning to the city around 6:30 PM, I treated myself to a cup of Cà phê trứng. The rich coffee topped with silky whipped egg cream had a smooth, dessert-like taste that made it one of my favorite Vietnamese drinks.

3. Day 3 : Hanoi to Halong Bay

One stop I had been anticipating throughout my 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour was Halong Bay. The day began with a comfortable limousine transfer from Hanoi to Tuan Chau Marina, where the Hera Grand Cruise team welcomed me with a refreshing drink before I checked into my cozy cabin. As the cruise glided between dramatic limestone islands, lunch became even more enjoyable thanks to the spectacular views stretching beyond the panoramic windows.

Ready for a little adventure, I challenged myself to climb to the top of Titop Island, where sweeping views of emerald waters and rugged karsts unfolded in every direction. After cooling off with a swim, I went kayaking through Luon Cave with Anna, a fellow solo traveler I had met earlier on board. During my 10 days in Southeast Asia, this peaceful paddle through a hidden lagoon, with only birdsong and the gentle rhythm of our paddles breaking the silence, became one of the most rewarding experiences of the journey.

As daylight faded, the atmosphere onboard became even more relaxing. I joined the sunset party on the sundeck with a cup of Vietnamese tea before taking part in a traditional cooking class, where I learned to make floating rice cakes. Dinner featured a generous selection of fresh seafood, followed by the graceful "Footsteps of Heritage" cultural performance. Falling asleep as the cruise rested quietly on the bay was the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

4. Day 4 : Halong Bay to Hanoi

I never wake up early, but practicing Tai Chi on the misty sundeck as the bay slowly came to life felt incredibly refreshing. After breakfast, we explored the massive chambers of Sung Sot Cave, where impressive stalactites and stalagmites were beautifully illuminated. Back on board, the crew prepared a relaxing herbal foot bath that melted away the last bit of tension. It was one of those thoughtful touches that made my Vietnam Cambodia Thailand trip feel even more special. After brunch, the cruise gradually returned to Tuan Chau Marina before I made my way back to Hanoi.

By the time I reached Hanoi in the late afternoon, I still had plenty of energy to explore. Wanting to make the most of my Vietnam Cambodia Thailand itinerary 10 days, I spent the evening on lively Ta Hien Beer Street, where locals and travelers gathered over glasses of fresh Bia Hơi. Crispy Nem Chua Rán, smoky grilled chicken feet, live street music, and the buzzing atmosphere made it a fun and authentic way to enjoy one more memorable evening in Hanoi.

5. Day 5 : Hanoi to Siem Reap

Before leaving Hanoi, I stopped by Dong Xuan Market to pick up a few local souvenirs, including fragrant lotus tea, a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter, and some Ô Mai, a classic Hanoi specialty with a sweet, sour, and salty taste. These simple gifts felt like the perfect keepsakes as I continued my 10 days in Vietnam Cambodia Thailand. Before heading to the airport, I also treated myself to a refreshing bowl of chè, a colorful Vietnamese dessert that made a fitting farewell.

A short flight later, I arrived in Siem Reap, where my driver transferred me directly to Tara Angkor Hotel. After checking in, I enjoyed my first Cambodian dinner with Fish Amok, a fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves with a subtle coconut flavor. Later that evening, I wandered around Angkor Night Market, where rows of food stalls, handmade souvenirs, silver jewelry, and local handicrafts created a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that made my first night in Cambodia even more enjoyable.

6. Day 6 : Angkor Wat Exploration

Setting out early helped me explore Angkor before the midday heat arrived. As part of my 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour, this was the day I had been looking forward to the most. Entering through the impressive South Gate of Angkor Thom, I admired the serene stone faces of Bayon Temple before continuing to the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Terrace of the Elephants, and the beautifully carved Terrace of the Leper King. Each stop revealed another chapter of the Khmer Empire's remarkable history and craftsmanship.

For lunch, I stopped at a traditional Khmer restaurant near the archaeological park and ordered Lok Lak, tender marinated beef served with fresh vegetables, rice, and a tangy lime-and-black-pepper dipping sauce. Exploring Angkor Wat was one of the highlights of my 10 days in Southeast Asia, with its soaring towers and intricate bas-reliefs telling stories of the Khmer Empire. From there, I continued to Ta Prohm, where enormous silk-cotton and strangler fig trees have gradually intertwined with centuries-old stone ruins, creating one of Angkor's most iconic sights.

After spending hours wandering through the temple complex, returning to Tara Angkor Hotel was exactly what I needed. I treated myself to a relaxing 60-minute foot and shoulder massage at the hotel's spa. The calm setting, gentle background music, and skilled therapists helped ease the fatigue from a full day of walking, leaving me refreshed and ready for the next stage of my journey.

7. Day 7 : Siem Reap to Bangkok

Watching daily life unfold on Tonlé Sap Lake felt completely different from anything I had experienced before. During my 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour, visiting Chong Kneas gave me a closer look at floating homes, schools, and small shops that rise and fall with the lake's seasonal water levels. Gliding past fishermen heading out for the day, I admired how closely the local community's daily life is connected to the rhythms of nature.

By the afternoon, I had landed in Bangkok and was warmly welcomed before transferring to Mandarin Bangkok by Centre Point. After settling into the hotel, I wandered through the lively Sukhumvit district in search of my first Thai dinner. A plate of smoky Pad Thai followed by a bowl of spicy Tom Yum Goong delivered the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, making the next chapter of my Vietnam Cambodia Thailand trip an exciting culinary beginning.

8. Day 8 : Bangkok markets and temples

Departing early at 7:30 AM by private van, my guide brought me to witness the thrilling chaos of the Maeklong Railway Market. I watched in absolute awe as local vendors calmly folded back their canvas awnings and pulled in baskets of fresh seafood just moments before the approaching train rolled right through the market. What an incredible sight ! This unique morning adventure is precisely what makes 10 days in Vietnam Cambodia Thailand such an unforgettable experience.

Next, a traditional long-tail boat carried me through the canals of Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Wooden boats overflowed with tropical fruit, freshly prepared noodles, grilled seafood, and colorful desserts, reflecting Thailand's long-standing canal trading culture. After enjoying a canal-side lunch of fiery Som Tum and perfectly charred Thai grilled chicken, we headed back to Bangkok to explore some of the city's most celebrated temples.

Continuing my Vietnam Cambodia Thailand itinerary 10 days, the afternoon began at Wat Traimit, where I stood spellbound by the world's largest solid gold Buddha statue, an incredible 5.5-ton masterpiece hidden beneath plaster until the 1950s. We then explored Wat Pho, admired the magnificent Reclining Buddha, and enjoyed a relaxing traditional shoulder massage at its renowned massage school before finishing at Wat Benchamabophit, whose elegant Italian marble architecture provided a beautiful finale to an unforgettable day !

9. Day 9 : Ayutthaya

Leaving Bangkok after breakfast, I traveled north to Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam. My Vietnam Cambodia Thailand itinerary 10 days wouldn't have felt complete without exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Standing before the three iconic chedis of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet and the enormous bronze Buddha at Phra Mongkhon Bophit, I could almost picture the grandeur of the old kingdom that once flourished here.

By midday, I stopped at a riverside restaurant for a relaxing Thai buffet while watching boats drift along the river before continuing to Wat Chaiwatthanaram. Its towering Khmer-style prang reminded me of Angkor, yet its peaceful riverside setting gave it a character all its own. During my 10 days in Southeast Asia, I found it fascinating to see how neighboring countries share cultural influences while preserving their own unique identities.

Rather than hurrying from one attraction to the next, I slowed down and explored Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, admiring the fascinating blend of Thai, Chinese, and European architecture set among peaceful landscaped gardens. Returning to Bangkok in the late afternoon, I wrapped up my final evening with sweet Khao Niew Mamuang (mango sticky rice) before browsing a few local shops for last-minute gifts to bring home.

10. Day 10 : Departure from Bangkok

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, I packed my bags and enjoyed one last stroll around the neighborhood before my driver transferred me to Suvarnabhumi Airport. Looking back, this 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour had given me far more than beautiful photographs. From peaceful lakes and ancient temples to vibrant cities, bustling markets, and unforgettable local cuisine, every destination left me with meaningful memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich cultures of Southeast Asia. As my flight took off, I was already dreaming about returning to this remarkable corner of the world one day.

Looking back, I realized that exploring three countries in one journey was much easier than I had imagined with a well-planned itinerary. Packing ancient temples, vibrant cities, peaceful bays, and unforgettable local cuisine into 10 days in Vietnam Cambodia Thailand gave me a deeper appreciation of the region's diversity. Every destination offered a different perspective, from Vietnam's breathtaking landscapes and Cambodia's rich Khmer heritage to Thailand's lively culture. If you're planning your own Vietnam Cambodia Thailand trip, I highly recommend traveling with Autour Asia. Their thoughtful planning made my 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free, allowing me to focus on the experience instead of the logistics. It's a journey I would gladly recommend to anyone visiting Southeast Asia for the first time.

You might be interested in :

- Dreaming of an unforgettable 10 day Vietnam Cambodia Thailand tour ? Let Autour Asia, your trusted Vietnam travel agency, take care of every detail, from breathtaking cruises and ancient temples to vibrant cities and authentic local experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
- 2 Weeks In Vietnam Cambodia
- Vietnam Travel Guide
- Cambodia Travel Guide
- Thailand Travel Guide
- How Much Does It Cost Per Day In Cambodia
- How Much Money To Spend For 10 Days In Vietnam ?