Hello everyone, I'm Barc, and I’ve just had an absolutely unforgettable experience. A fascinating 7-day Saigon Siem Reap journey, where the vibrant energy of Saigon meets the timeless beauty of Siem Reap. Every day on this Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 7 days was a new discovery, a blend of breathtaking landscapes, beauty, and emotions. If you dream of exploring places full of history and immersing yourself in fascinating cultures, let me take you on an adventure that will stay etched in your memory. I guarantee that every moment of this journey will leave a lasting impression on you.
Day 1: Saigon – Immersion in the pulse of the City
On my
Saigon Siem Reap 7 days trip, upon arriving at Tan Son Nhat Airport, I was immediately struck by the vibrant energy of
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, as it’s called here. This city is a true crossroads, buzzing with commerce, finance, culture, and tourism. The transfer to my hotel was my first immersion into the fast-paced rhythm of the city, with motorbikes speeding through the streets, colorful markets, and lively cafés where people stop to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee outdoors.
I then set off to explore the heart of Saigon during our
Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 7 days trip. The city is a fascinating blend of modernity and colonial charm. The old colonial residential neighborhood transported me to another time, with its elegant buildings and shaded alleyways. The majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, imposing and beautiful, impressed me with its French architecture. The
Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is a true masterpiece, blending functionality and aesthetics. The Jade Emperor Pagoda, with its sculptures and vibrant colors, added a spiritual and mystical touch to my visit.
In the evening, I enjoyed a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, tasting traditional Vietnamese specialties. The day ended with a gentle warmth, marked by the diversity of discoveries and emotions. This first day of my
7-day Saigon Siem Reap journey had already offered a beautiful array of sensations, and I knew the adventure was just beginning.
Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City - Ben Tre - Cai Be - Mekong Lodge
7 days in Vietnam and Cambodia, in the second day, at 8:30 AM, we left Ho Chi Minh City for an unforgettable adventure, heading toward Cai Be in the
Tien Giang. Upon our arrival, a warm welcome awaited us, followed by a picturesque boat ride to the Mekong Lodge, where we settled into our charming private bungalows. At noon, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the Lodge’s restaurant, savoring local dishes, before heading out in the afternoon for an exploration on foot or by bike through the surrounding village paths. This off-the-beaten-path walk provided us with stunning views of the terraced rice fields, while immersing us in the local life.
Visit
Cai Be, the afternoon continued with a pleasant sampan ride through the narrow waterways, where we visited local orchards. There’s nothing more refreshing than tasting fresh fruit straight from the trees. It was a true delight for the senses! At 6:30 PM, we had the chance to take part in a Vietnamese cooking demonstration, followed by a tasting of the dishes we had watched being prepared. It was a moment of camaraderie and sharing, a complete immersion into the culinary culture of Vietnam.
After such a day full of discoveries on the 7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary, the evening unfolded in a peaceful atmosphere at the Lodge's bar, which stayed open until midnight. With its beautiful pool and lush garden, the place provided the perfect setting to relax. That night, we stayed at the Mekong Lodge, an authentic, comfortable, and tranquil spot that allowed me to recharge before the next adventures.
Day 3: Mekong Lodge - Cai Be Floating Market - Sa Dec - Chau Doc
The third day of my
7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary started peacefully, with a delicious breakfast served at the Mekong Lodge restaurant. At 8:00 AM, I boarded a rowboat for a cruise to discover the
Cai Be floating market. Sailing among the colorful boats and watching the merchants exchange fresh produce was a magical experience. We visited families who continue the artisanal traditions of the Mekong Delta, making rice cakes, coconut candy, and caramel puffs. To top it all off, I had the pleasure of tasting local honey tea, sweet and fragrant, perfectly suited to the peaceful atmosphere of the river.
Take a
Vietnam Cambodia tour, After this morning adventure, I returned to the Lodge to enjoy some free time before hitting the road again. Around 11:00 AM, I checked out and took a boat to Cai Be, passing through Sa Dec in
Mekong delta. There, we visited the Huynh Thuy Le ancient house, an 18th-century riverside residence. This house holds special significance as it is connected to the romantic history of Marguerite Duras and her novel The Lover. The atmosphere of the house was filled with nostalgia, a place rich in charm and history.
Lunch was served in the
Huynh Thuy Le house ancient house, and it was a delightful experience, both flavorful and culturally enriching. Afterward, we visited the Kien An Cung Pagoda, a serene and beautiful place, before heading to Trung Vuong School, where Marguerite Duras studied, adding a final touch of mystery to our exploration.
At the end of the day on the Saigon Siem Reap tour, we continued our journey to Chau Doc, where we finally checked into our hotel. This day in our Vietnam Cambodia trip was a true immersion in the history, culture, and landscapes of the Mekong Delta, and I was eager to see what Chau Doc had in store for the night.
Day 4: Chau Doc - Phnom Penh by Express Boat
The end of my stay in Saigon on this Vietnam Cambodia itinerary 7 days led me to a picturesque cruise along the Mekong, crossing into Cambodia toward Phnom Penh. Despite its difficult history, the city retains a unique charm. I visited the Royal Palace, an architectural masterpiece with a splendid view, then explored the Silver Pagoda, steeped in serenity. Finally, Wat Phnom, perched on a hill, offered a beautiful view and a deep dive into Cambodia's spiritual history.
The evening was free, perfect for wandering the streets of Phnom Penh, tasting the local cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The overnight stay in Phnom Penh was peaceful, marked by a day full of discoveries, and I was already curious about what the rest of
Ho Chi Minh city to Siem Reap journey would bring.
Day 5: Phnom Penh - Siem Reap by Car - Mount Bakheng
Continuing our 7-day Ho Chi Minh Siem Reap itinerary, we took the time to savor every moment of the 5-hour journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, with breathtaking Cambodian landscapes that already began to immerse me in the beauty of this land. Upon arriving in Siem Reap, I was filled with excitement and awe at the thought of discovering the Angkor temples, a place rich in mystery and history.
Take a Saigon Siem Reap 7-Day journey, after checking into the hotel, I wandered through the streets of Siem Reap, soaking in the unique atmosphere of the city. The balance between the past and modernity deeply impressed me. I was simply fascinated by the life unfolding there. Then, when visiting Angkor Wat, the sheer scale and grandeur of the temple literally took my breath away, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. The highlight of the day was the sunset on Mount Bakheng, where I felt completely awed by the beauty of the landscape, with the temples silhouetted against a fiery sky.
The free dinner allowed me to process all these intense emotions and enjoy a quiet moment to myself. Yet, already, I felt a deep longing to continue exploring these magical places. Back at the hotel, my heart was full of gratitude, and I could hardly wait for the next chapter of this adventure.
Day 6: The Grandeur of the Angkor Temples
The sixth day of the
7-day Ho Chi Minh city Siem Reap was a total immersion into Khmer history. At dawn, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, I explored
Angkor Wat, with its stunning bas-reliefs and impressive architecture. The intimate approach, away from the crowds, allowed me to fully appreciate the grandeur of this temple, marveling at every sculpture and every detail.
The day continued with a visit to Angkor Thom, the great royal city, where I explored treasures like the Bayon Temple, with its 50 mysterious faces, and the Terrace of the Elephants, both breathing the history of the Khmer Empire. The emotion was palpable, and the vastness of the site left me speechless. Lunch at Mr. Peout and Mrs. Gin's was a deeply moving experience. Their warm welcome and heartfelt stories about the Khmer Rouge period gave me a deeper understanding of Cambodia's recent history.
In the afternoon, the visit to Banteay Srei, a masterpiece of architecture, and
Ta Prohm, with its intertwined tree roots, continued to amaze me, immersing me in the magical atmosphere of these temples. Before leaving, a traditional Khmer massage provided a moment of pure relaxation, allowing me to reflect on these incredible discoveries.
Back in Siem Reap, I enjoyed
Siem Reap street food at one of the many options in the city, my heart filled with gratitude and unforgettable memories. A peaceful night at the hotel, reflecting on this emotionally rich and discovery-filled day.
Day 7: Siem Reap - Departure. End of the Journey
On the last day of the 7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary, I took a moment to get lost in the lively streets of Siem Reap, soaking in the vibrant energy of the city and savoring every moment, every breath of warm air. My heart was filled with mixed emotions, torn between the sadness of leaving and the lightness of the wonderful memories this trip had given me. The breathtaking landscapes, the sincere encounters, and those moments of pure awe will stay with me forever, like a sweet melody I will never stop humming.
This 7-day Ho Chi Minh Siem Reap tour has profoundly transformed me. If you're looking for an adventure that blends history, culture, nature, and unforgettable moments, I highly recommend this journey. Let yourself be swept away by the emotion, the beauty, and the richness of these incredible lands. You will never regret it.
After these unforgettable 7 days in Vietnam and Cambodia, I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to AUTOUR ASIA – English-speaking agency in Vietnam – and the entire team for creating such an exceptional experience. From the vibrant energy of Saigon to the timeless wonders of Angkor, each step was a complete immersion in the history, culture, and beauty of this fascinating region. The landscapes were breathtaking, the encounters warm, and every moment rich in emotions. The organization of the trip was flawless, and the support throughout the adventure was perfect. A huge thank you to the entire Autour Asia's team for making this 7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary not only possible but also deeply memorable. It is a journey that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
Is the 7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary suitable for families and elderly people?
Yes, this 7-day Saigon Siem Reap itinerary is suitable for families and elderly people, although some journeys may be a bit long. Comfortable transport options and age-appropriate visits are available. However, it is recommended to check with AUTOUR ASIA – your travel agency if additional arrangements are needed to meet specific requirements.
What are the main cultural differences to consider during this trip?
On the 7-day Vietnam Cambodia trip, cultural differences are mainly related to local customs. For example, in temples, it is important to remove your shoes, respect silence, and dress modestly. Respecting Buddhist and Khmer traditions is essential. Additionally, friendliness and kindness are deeply ingrained values in these societies.
Are there any specific health precautions to take during the trip?
For the 7-day Saigon Siem Reap journey, it is recommended to take basic precautions, such as drinking bottled water and avoiding raw foods not prepared under optimal sanitary conditions. You may consult your doctor before departure to check if any vaccinations are necessary. An anti-malarial treatment may be advised for certain areas.
