Premium Thailand & Vietnam Tour – 19 Days

Duration: 19 Days
Start/ End: Bangkok- Ho Chi Minh
Tour Type: Discovery and Experience
Tour Route: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – Ayutthaya – Sukhothai – Mae Taeng – Chiang Mai – Hanoi – Halong Bay – Hanoi – Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
Tour Customizable: Definitely!
Guide: Local experienced English speaking guide
Transportation: Local transport with a skillful driver

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok
Day 2: Bangkok
Day 3: Kanchanaburi
Day 4: Kanchanaburi
Day 5: Ayutthaya
Day 6: Ayutthaya – Sukhothai
Day 7: Sukhothai
Day 8: Sukhothai – Mae Taeng
Day 9: Mae Taeng
Day 10: Chiang Mai
Day 11: Chiang Mai
Day 12: Chiang Mai
Day 13: Chiang Mai – Hanoi – Halong Bay
Day 14: Halong Bay – Hanoi
Day 15: Hanoi – Hoi An
Day 16: Hoi An
Day 17: Hoi An – Ho Chi Minh
Day 18: Ho Chi Minh
Day 19: Ho Chi Minh

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Bangkok

Welcome to Thailand! Upon arrival in Bangkok, we’ll pick you up from the airport and take you to your hotel. Later, at 6 pm, there will be an important welcome meeting. Witness the hustle of tuk-tuks and the serenity of khlong boats on the Chao Phraya River. After the meeting, join your small group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where your leader will introduce you to the flavorful local cuisine.

Day 2: Bangkok

Start your day early with an optional local experience at a temple along the Chao Phraya River, where you’ll participate in a traditional offering to the monks. Afterwards, your leader will guide you through a day of sightseeing in bustling Bangkok. Explore Wat Po, home of the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, and visit the iconic Grand Palace, the king’s official residence since the 1700s. Enjoy a boat tour of Bangkok’s canals to see how locals live. The afternoon is yours to explore further, whether it’s visiting the Jim Thompson house to see its art collection or indulging in a relaxing Thai massage.

Day 3: Kanchanaburi

Get ready to dive into the vibrant history of Benjarong, a traditional Thai porcelain style, by visiting a ceramics community. Benjarong, meaning ‘five colours’ (though sometimes there are eight), features intricate designs crafted with enamel. Afterward, you can grab lunch before heading to Kanchanaburi to visit the War Cemetery. This poignant site honors the Asian and POW workers who died building the Death Railway, serving as a reminder of their sacrifice and preserving their memory for future generations.

Day 4: Kanchanaburi

Begin your day with a trip to Erawan National Park, where you can marvel at its renowned seven-tier waterfall or simply relax and swim in the refreshing pools. This area played a significant role in history, as Allied prisoners of war and Asian laborers worked here to build the infamous Death Railway, including the notorious Hellfire Pass. Experience a historic train journey along the Kwai Noi River, crossing the original wooden Krasae Bridge built by Allied POWs. Reflect on the lives lost during this period as you pass through scenic landscapes. Day 5: Ayutthaya

This morning, journey to Ayutthaya, an ancient capital of Siam and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along the way, visit Baan Nong Khao CBT Village, known for its Pha Khao Mah hand-weaving. Upon reaching Ayutthaya, explore the picturesque ruins of Wat Phra Mahathat, dating back to the 13th century, where you’ll find rows of Buddhas decapitated by the Burmese. Tonight, experience the past come alive as you dine on a delicious Thai dinner aboard a traditional rice barge.

Day 6: Ayutthaya – Sukhothai

Today, leave Ayutthaya and take a train to Phitsanulok, then switch to a private vehicle for a comfy ride to Sukhothai, arriving around 5pm. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Relax by the pool or treat yourself to a Thai massage. For dinner, ask your leader for recommendations on where to find Sukhothai’s delicious noodles.

Day 7: Sukhothai

Explore Sukhothai, one of Siam’s earliest capitals, founded in the 13th century. Begin your day with an optional alms offering, then visit the World Heritage-listed historical park, capturing Thailand’s Golden Age. Rent a bike and join a guided cycle tour around the park, learning about its fascinating history from your leader. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Sukhothai Park before spending the afternoon as you please, whether exploring the town or relaxing by the pool. In the evening, gather for a home cooked dinner at a local friend’s house, gaining unique insight into regional life.

Day 8: Sukhothai – Mae Taeng

Journey from Sukhothai to the Mae Taeng region and arrive at Lisu Lodge, your Feature Stay accommodation nestled amidst rice fields and fruit orchards. This community-based project employs Lisu villagers, preserving their cultural heritage. Meet the colorful Lisu people, one of Northern Thailand’s main hill tribes, and learn about their way of life. Enjoy a dinner of Thai and Lisu cuisine. Immerse yourself in this cultural experience surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Day 9: Mae Taeng

Following breakfast at Lisu Lodge, you’ll head to Muang Kued Village for a private guided tour with a local villager. Discover village life, reforestation efforts, and orchard farming practices. Explore the organic farm and select ingredients for a Thai cooking class. Enjoy a delicious lunch and join villagers to learn palm leaf weaving for ornaments. End the day with a barbecue dinner at Mae Tamaan Base Camp.

Day 10: Chiang Mai

Head to the Elephant Nature Park, a special sanctuary for elephants and other animals. Meet a knowledgeable local guide and hear about the rescued elephants and the challenges they encounter in Southeast Asia. Upon returning to Chiang Mai in the late afternoon, the evening is yours to explore. Visit the lively Night Bazaar or take a stroll around the old town surrounded by moats. Ask your guide for dinner recommendations.

Day 11: Chiang Mai

Kick off your day with a coffee stop at a sustainable social enterprise. Then, head to Doi Suthep temple complex, enjoying scenic views along the mountain road. Climb the impressive 300-step stairway guarded by Naga to reach the stunning temple and panoramic city views. Return to Chiang Mai for relaxation before a special farewell dinner prepared by a local chef. Indulge in traditional northern Thai dishes like kao soy, reminiscing about your adventures in Northern Thailand.

Day 12: Chiang Mai

Your adventure concludes after breakfast today, with no activities planned. If you wish to prolong your stay in Chiang Mai, we can assist in arranging additional accommodation.

Day 13: Chiang Mai – Hanoi – Halong Bay

Leave Hanoi and journey to Halong Bay, a natural wonder of Vietnam. Enjoy a seafood lunch onboard and learn about the region’s geography and significance to the Vietnamese people. Explore Surprise Cave with your leader, and in warmer months, swim at Ti Top Island Beach or opt for a kayaking tour. Relax with a drink on the upper deck and admire the scenery. Indulge in a candlelit seafood dinner on deck and spend the night stargazing and sharing stories.

Day 14: Halong Bay- Hanoi

Start your day with a peaceful breakfast and maybe some Tai Chi onboard before returning to Hanoi. In the afternoon, experience something unforgettable: a traditional Hat Xam performance. Despite being rare now, you’ll be treated to an exclusive performance in a private clubhouse. The hour-long show may include audience interaction, so get ready to participate!

Day 15: Hanoi – Hoi An

Embark on a half-day tour of Hanoi with your leader this morning. Explore the city’s blend of tradition and modernity, visiting the Temple of Literature for a serene experience. You’ll also tour the Hoa Lo Prison, known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” where American POWs were held. Enjoy a special lunch at KOTO café, a social enterprise empowering disadvantaged youth through hospitality training. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Hanoi and fly to Danang, then drive to Hoi An, enjoying lush scenery along the way. Arrive in Hoi An in the late afternoon and check into your boutique hotel.

Day 16: Hoi An

Embark on a tour of Hoi An’s Old Town, exploring its mix of tradition and influences from historical traders. Your leader will share the city’s history as you stroll along pagoda-lined streets, visit a Chinese assembly hall, cross the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore a former trader’s ornate house, and visit a local museum. Hoi An was a major pottery trading port, and ancient pottery villages still thrive. Don’t miss Vietnam’s famous coffee! Try traditional egg coffee or refreshing coconut coffee. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure.

Day 17: Hoi An- Ho Chi Minh

Enjoy the morning exploring charming Hoi An and its surroundings. Browse the market for silk or pick up any tailored garments. You can also rent a bicycle and ride to a nearby beach. Your leader can recommend great places to eat and drink. In the afternoon, return to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Check into your hotel and have a free evening to explore. Don’t miss the bustling food stalls at Cho Ben Thanh market, offering tempting aromas of pho and bun mam.

Day 18: Ho Chi Minh

Venture out of the city to the Cu Chi Tunnels, an extensive underground network built by the Viet Minh and expanded by the Viet Cong. Return to Ho Chi Minh City for a tour, including the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. In the evening, share a final dinner with fellow travelers at a local restaurant, recommended by your leader.

Day 19: Ho Chi Minh

Your adventure concludes after breakfast today. If you’d like to extend your stay in Ho Chi Minh City, we can arrange additional accommodation for you.