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3 Weeks In Thailand Cambodia Vietnam - Review From Elias Family

Day 1 – 3: Bangkok – First steps in Southeast Asia

We arrived in Bangkok after a long flight from Paris, ready to begin our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks adventure. From the very first moments, Bangkok captivated us with its vibrant blend of tradition and modernity.

We stayed at Rambuttri Village Inn, ideally located in the lively Khao San district – perfect for families like ours.

During these 3 days, we explored the city's wonders: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew with its famous Emerald Buddha, and an unforgettable boat ride through the khlongs – the city's iconic canals revealing its authentic soul. In the evenings, we delighted in street markets serving pad thai, grilled skewers, and sticky mango rice.

Day 4 – 6: Chiang Mai – Nature and spirituality

After Bangkok, our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary continued to Chiang Mai, a peaceful city nestled in the north of the country.

The flight was short, and we stayed at the BED Chiang Mai Gate Hotel – a charming, clean property with attentive staff. From the moment we arrived, we were taken in by the city’s calming atmosphere.

We visited Doi Suthep Temple, perched on a hill with breathtaking views, followed by an unforgettable day at an ethical elephant sanctuary. There, we fed and bathed the elephants in nature, far from the usual tourist traps. In the evening, the Chiang Mai night market became one of our favorite memories: local handicrafts, colorful lanterns, and delicious street food. A visit to Chiang Mai is a must in any thoughtfully planned Thailand itinerary.

Day 7 – 9: Siem Reap – Immersion in the Khmer Empire

After Thailand, we took a flight to Siem Reap, in the heart of Cambodia. We stayed at the charming Tanei Boutique Villa, complete with a pool and a great location – perfect for relaxing with the family.

The highlight of this part of our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks journey was undoubtedly exploring the Angkor temples. From sunrise at Angkor Wat to mystical walks among the tree roots of Ta Prohm and the carved faces of Bayon, each visit brought awe. Thanks to our passionate local guide, the fascinating story of the Khmer Empire came to life.

Each temple visit was well timed to avoid the crowds, making the experience even more magical. With a balance of nature, culture, and comfort, this Cambodian leg of the journey was a true success.

Day 10 – 11: Phnom Penh – Memory and modernity

During our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks trip, we reached Phnom Penh via a private chauffeured bus – a great choice with kids.

We stayed at Blue Lime Hotel, a peaceful oasis in the city center with a beautiful garden and a refreshing pool after long visits.

In Phnom Penh, we were deeply moved by visits to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. These emotional experiences offered important insight into Cambodia’s recent tragic history.

To balance those heavy moments, we enjoyed peaceful walks along the Mekong River and admired the beauty of the Royal Palace with its golden rooftops. The smooth organization by the agency made this leg both informative and comfortable, perfectly suited for family travel.

Day 12 – 14: Ho Chi Minh City – Energy and history

As part of our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary, we crossed the land border into Vietnam and arrived in Ho Chi Minh City. We stayed at the centrally located Alagon Zen Hotel & Spa, which offered great comfort for our first night in Vietnam.

We visited the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, poignant remnants of the war, and explored the War Remnants Museum with its powerful exhibits.

Later, we took a relaxed stroll around the Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. The vibrant local atmosphere, colonial architecture, and colorful stalls captivated us.

Special mention goes to the street food: pho, banh mi, fresh juices – each snack was a delightful part of our culinary discovery. This Vietnamese stage added rich cultural and culinary depth to our Southeast Asian adventure.

Day 15 – 17: Hoi An – Timeless charm

As part of our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary, a domestic flight took us to Da Nang, followed by a transfer to Hoi An.

We stayed at the Lantana Riverside Hoi An Hotel, a charming riverside property with warm, attentive staff.

From the moment we arrived, Hoi An won our hearts. Colorful lanterns lit up the pedestrian streets, tailors displayed their skills in quaint shops, and the peaceful atmosphere made this stop one of our most treasured memories.

We explored the surrounding countryside by bike through rice fields, met smiling locals, and took part in an authentic Vietnamese cooking class.

In the evening, the old town turned magical, perfect for a romantic stroll or tasting local specialties at the night markets. Hoi An was a timeless moment, an ideal way to end our Southeast Asian journey beautifully.

Day 18 – 20: Halong Bay – Unforgettable cruise

From Da Nang, we flew to Hanoi before heading to Halong Bay. We boarded the Peony Cruise for two unforgettable nights.

The cruise, both elegant and comfortable, featured spacious cabins with private balconies opening directly onto the sea.

Sailing among karst formations, kayaking through mysterious caves, and waking up with the mist floating over the water felt truly timeless.

Every moment in the bay was peaceful and breathtaking. This Halong Bay stay marked the final Vietnamese leg of our Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks itinerary, and we carry indelible memories of it. The cruise experience was among the most magical parts of our journey, blending spectacular nature with refined comfort.

Day 21: Hanoi – Farewell to Vietnam

We ended our trip in Hanoi, spending the night at La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel, right by Hoan Kiem Lake.

A last walk through the Old Quarter, a bowl of authentic pho, and some souvenirs from the night market beautifully wrapped up our adventure.

This Thailand Cambodia Vietnam 3 weeks journey exceeded all our expectations. From the buzz of Bangkok to the temples of Angkor, the rice fields of northern Vietnam to the serenity of Halong Bay, every stop revealed a new face of Southeast Asia. Thanks to Vietnam Travel agency – Autour Asia, everything was flawlessly arranged – attentive guides, charming hotels, and authentic experiences. Traveling with a local agency allowed us to enjoy genuine moments, far from typical tourist routes. We return with unforgettable memories, touching encounters. For anyone dreaming of a rich, meaningful, and well-designed itinerary, we wholeheartedly recommend this agency.