Simply Bangkok to Hanoi

Our tour begins today in Bangkok, Thailand's vibrant capital, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Wander lively streets filled with vendors, locals, and tourists, all set against a backdrop of ornate temples and towering skyscrapers. For those arriving on time, our tour leader will meet you at the hotel reception at 6 pm for the welcome meeting before heading out together for dinner. If you require an airport transfer, please plan to arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), which is about a 45-minute drive from the hotel, depending on traffic. If you'd like to enjoy Thailand's world-famous beaches, consider arriving a few days earlier and adding our beach extension to the beautiful island of Koh Samet.

This morning, we dive into the heart of Bangkok with a thrilling long-tail boat cruise through the city's maze of klongs (canals). As we glide past stilted houses, bustling riverside markets, and hidden temples, you'll get a glimpse of the vibrant local life that still thrives along these historic waterways.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Visit the dazzling Grand Palace and the awe-inspiring Wat Pho, home to the giant Reclining Buddha. Or, for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, hop on a bike and explore Bangkok's secret backstreets, where quiet alleyways, local eateries, and unexpected gems await around every corner.

We begin our day early this morning as we set off on our journey to Siem Reap, Cambodia - the gateway to the iconic temples of Angkor and a city rich in culture and history.

Our morning starts with a drive to Bangkok's international airport, where we catch a short flight to Siem Reap. The flight typically takes about an hour, and we expect to arrive around midday. Upon arrival, we'll head straight to our hotel to check in and take a little time to settle in and refresh after the journey.

In the afternoon, our tour leader will guide us on an introductory walk around Siem Reap. This orientation walk is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the city's layout, discover local landmarks, and learn about Cambodian customs, traditions, and recent history. From colonial architecture to bustling local markets and temples, Siem Reap offers a fascinating mix of old and new, and this stroll will help us begin to understand the context of the sites we'll explore in the days ahead.

To make the most of our first day, a range of optional activities will be available, allowing you to choose what best suits your interests. From visiting a serene lotus farm and getting creative at a hands-on ceramic workshop to enjoying a scenic cruise on Tonle Sap Lake, there are plenty of opportunities to discover, explore, and experience the unique charm of Siem Reap.

Start your day early to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the world-famous Angkor Wat - a magical moment as the 12th-century temple glows gold in the morning light. Built by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it later became a sacred Buddhist site, making it one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Wander through its vast galleries, where intricate carvings tell ancient stories of gods, battles, and legends.

Next, we head to Angkor Thom, the 'Great City'. This massive walled capital has five grand gates, each guarded by stone elephants and rows of statues representing gods and demons from Hindu mythology. Once inside, explore the Bayon Temple, famous for its maze-like corridors and more than 200 giant, serene stone faces gazing in every direction. Finally, we visit Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots and the surrounding jungle weave through the crumbling walls - a hauntingly beautiful sight that has been left largely untouched since its discovery and was made world-famous by the film Tomb Raider.

Please note that your Tour Leader may adjust the itinerary based on local conditions to ensure the best experience.

This morning, we take a short walk to Les Artisans d'Angkor, a renowned social enterprise dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Khmer arts and crafts. Here, you'll have the chance to see skilled artisans at work - sculpting stone, carving wood, painting silk, and creating lacquerware - using techniques passed down through generations. It's a fascinating insight into the craftsmanship that helped build and decorate the temples of Angkor.

This afternoon is yours to explore more of Siem Reap at your own pace.

If you're still craving more temple time, consider an optional tour to Banteay Srei, known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, and continue to Pre Rup Temple, a stunning spot to watch the sun set over the jungle landscape.

For something completely different, you could visit the HeroRAT Museum, where you'll learn how trained rats are helping clear landmines in Cambodia - an inspiring and little-known story of innovation and recovery.

In the evening, don't miss a performance by the Phare Cambodian Circus. More than just a circus, this is a powerful mix of theatre, acrobatics, dance, and live music - performed by talented young artists from disadvantaged backgrounds. It's a highlight for many visitors and a memorable celebration of Cambodian creativity and resilience.

We leave Siem Reap this morning and journey to Battambang, enjoying a scenic 3-hour drive through the Cambodian countryside.

Along the way, we'll stop at the Angkor Silk Farm, where you can witness the entire silk-making process - from nurturing silkworms to weaving beautiful fabrics - and learn about this traditional craft that has been passed down through generations.

After the visit, we continue to Battambang, a charming town known for its colonial architecture and laid-back atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we explore the interesting outskirts of the town, full of history and natural beauty. First, we visit the Killing Cave, a limestone cave with a dark past that tells an important part of Cambodia's story. Nearby, we stop at Wat Ek Phnom, known for its detailed stone carvings and classic Khmer architecture. From here, you can enjoy great views of the surrounding countryside and spot some playful monkeys in the trees. As evening approaches, we make our way to the Bat Cave, where thousands of bats take flight at dusk, creating a stunning and unforgettable natural show in the sky.

This morning, we'll start with a visit to the bustling Battambang Market, where you can pick up fresh, local fruits and snacks to enjoy on the road. This lively market offers a vibrant glimpse into everyday life, with colourful stalls filled with tropical produce, spices, and handmade goods. It's the perfect spot to soak up the local atmosphere before we set off on our journey to Phnom Penh.

We then hit the road, making a stop to explore Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake. Famous for its floating villages and lively local communities, it offers a unique glimpse into how people live and work on the water.

Afterward, visit a nearby traditional pottery village where skilled artisans craft beautiful ceramics using age-old techniques. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into local culture before continuing on to Phnom Penh.

The drive to Phnom Penh takes approximately five hours not including stops, with our arrival expected in the late afternoon.

This morning, we set off on an engaging walking tour through Phnom Penh, uncovering both its vibrant energy and quieter, lesser-seen corners. Along the way, you'll meet locals, learn about everyday life in the city, and discover hidden gems that reflect Cambodia's resilience and culture. A special highlight of the morning is a stop at a local temple, where we receive a blessing from the resident monks - a peaceful and humbling experience. Donations from our visit go directly toward supporting valuable community initiatives.

After the walk, we hop into tuk-tuks and head to the iconic Central Market - a striking Art Deco landmark and a bustling hub of local activity. Here, you can browse colourful stalls selling everything from clothes and jewellery to souvenirs and street snacks. We'll grab lunch at one of the market's many food stalls, where you can sample authentic Cambodian dishes in the heart of the city.

This afternoon is yours to explore Phnom Penh at your own pace. You could visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) to learn more about Cambodia's heartbreaking history during the Khmer Rouge era - a moving and eye-opening experience. Or, if you're after something lighter, head to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda to admire their beautiful architecture and get a glimpse into Cambodia's royal past.

Later on, you might fancy a sunset cruise along the Mekong River - a laid-back way to see the city from a different angle. Or just kick back with a drink at one of Phnom Penh's rooftop bars and enjoy the views as the sun goes down.

This morning, we begin our overland journey to Ho Chi Minh City (still widely known as Saigon), a drive of around seven hours. We'll cross the border at Bavet (Cambodia) and Moc Bai (Vietnam), continuing through the countryside until we reach the vibrant southern hub.

Set along the banks of the Saigon River, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam's largest metropolis - a dynamic blend of old and new, where traditional markets and temples stand beside modern cafés, skyscrapers, and French colonial landmarks.

Depending on our arrival time, we'll take a short walking tour to get our bearings. Highlights may include the elegant Hotel de Ville, the red-brick Notre Dame Cathedral, and the striking colonial-era Central Post Office.

This morning, we meet our new travel companions for the Vietnam journey and take a short flight to Danang, the gateway to Central Vietnam. From there, we continue onward to the charming and atmospheric town of Hoi An.

As we may arrive before hotel check-in, we'll store our bags and dive straight into exploring this historic gem on foot.

Once a thriving 16th-century trading port, Hoi An still brims with old-world charm. Its lantern-lined streets, centuries-old buildings, and riverside setting make it one of Vietnam's most captivating towns. On our walking tour, we'll step inside the ornate Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, admire the legendary 400-year-old Japanese Bridge, and soak up the atmosphere at the bustling riverside market.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy - whether that's browsing tailor shops, sampling local delicacies, or simply wandering the cobbled lanes at your own pace.

Today is yours to enjoy the charm of Hoi An and its surroundings. You may wish to wander through the atmospheric streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or start the day at the lively early morning fish market, a riot of colour and sound and an excellent spot for photography.

For a change of pace, hire a bicycle and take advantage of the town's relatively quiet roads to explore the nearby countryside. Within a few kilometres, you'll find a sandy beach ideal for relaxing, or you might prefer to cycle out to local villages and experience rural life.

If food is your passion, Hoi An is also renowned for its cooking classes, where you can learn the secrets behind Vietnam's delicious cuisine.

Your tour leader will also be available to offer optional excursions throughout the day.

Travel along Vietnam's stunning coastal road and over the dramatic Hai Van Pass, where turquoise seas meet lush mountains.

Arrive in Hue, the imperial city once home to poets and emperors, and now celebrated as Vietnam's culinary capital.

Spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace: wander the Old Town and 19th-century citadel, stroll through a vibrant local market, and sample local specialities such as bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup), banh khoai (crispy rice pancakes), and nem lui (grilled lemongrass skewers).

With the Perfume River flowing through the city, Hue's timeless charm, relaxed streets, and rich flavours promise an unforgettable experience.

This morning offers more time to explore Hue at your own pace. You might visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, the city's oldest monastery, with its graceful Buddhist statues and tranquil courtyards. Alternatively, explore the Old Citadel, built by the Nguyen dynasty as a replica of Beijing's Forbidden City, or cycle through the forested Perfume Valley to visit the Royal Tombs of Hue's emperors.

In the afternoon, we head to the railway station to board the overnight train to Hanoi, Vietnam's vibrant and historic capital. The railway itself has a rich history, built during the French colonial period and once forming a crucial link between North and South Vietnam. We choose this mode of travel for sustainability and to experience Vietnam as locals do. Settling into your soft-sleeper cabin with bunk beds and provided bedding, you can watch the countryside slip by as the train carries you north.

The tour leader will do their best to keep the group together, though cabins may be shared with other travellers. Travelling by train offers a practical, authentic, and low-impact way to continue our journey.

We arrive in Hanoi early in the morning before driving northeast to the Bay of Tonkin and transferring to Cat Ba Island, the largest island in the bay and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With its limestone cliffs, rolling hills, and dense forests, the island offers a mix of natural beauty and history.

After checking into our hotel, we explore the island's highlights. A short forested walk leads to Trung Trang Cave, a striking limestone cavern carved into the cliffs. Next, we visit Hospital Cave, a wartime shelter used by the Viet Cong, featuring multiple rooms, an operating theatre, and even a small cinema.

The afternoon concludes at Cannon Fort, offering clear views across the bay and the surrounding islands, providing perspective on both the island's landscape and its historical significance.

After breakfast, we set out by boat to explore Lan Ha Bay in greater depth. Often described as the quieter, less-crowded alternative to Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay offers the same magnificent scenery of towering limestone karsts and emerald-green waters but with fewer boats and a more peaceful atmosphere. Glide past secluded beaches and hidden lagoons, with time to swim, kayak through tranquil coves, or venture into one of the bay's impressive limestone caves.

After an early lunch on board, we disembark around midday and begin the drive back to Hanoi, passing through the picturesque countryside of rural northern Vietnam. Upon arrival, your tour leader will lead a guided walk through the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets lined with small shops, food stalls, and the city's signature tall, narrow 'tube houses'.

In the evening, take time to sample local street food, observe daily life, and enjoy the energy and charm of one of Hanoi's most characterful neighbourhoods.

Today is free to explore Hanoi at your own pace. Key landmarks include the One-Pillar Pagoda, the Temple of Literature, and the Presidential Palace, where Ho Chi Minh once lived in a modest stilt house. Nearby, you can visit his mausoleum and museum, offering insight into his life and legacy and reflecting his simple, austere lifestyle.

For a slower pace, head to the French Quarter, where grand colonial buildings and tree-lined avenues showcase a different side of the capital's charm. Alternatively, enjoy a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Those interested in Vietnam's modern history may also wish to visit the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution or the Vietnam Military History Museum, both providing fascinating perspectives on the country's complex past.

In the evening, you may choose to join a guided food tour, an excellent way to experience Hanoi's vibrant street food culture. Follow your local guide through lively alleys and markets, sampling signature dishes such as bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), banh mi (Vietnamese baguette sandwich), and the city's famous egg coffee - a uniquely Hanoian speciality. It's a delicious and engaging way to discover the flavours and traditions that define daily life here. As the tour focuses on authentic street food, the specific dishes may vary from day to day, depending on what's fresh and available, ensuring a truly local and dynamic experience.

Alternatively, attend a traditional water puppet show, an art form that originated in northern Vietnam's rice paddies in the 11th century. Accompanied by live folk music, the performance brings to life tales of village life, legends, and folklore in a colourful and captivating display - a cultural highlight for many visitors.

If you're feeling adventurous, you might also visit Train Street, where trains pass just inches from homes, cafes, and shopfronts. It's an extraordinary and photogenic experience, but please note that access is sometimes restricted for safety reasons, and any visit should be made at your own risk and with caution.

The trip ends after breakfast at our hotel in Hanoi.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Hanoi at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to depart from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), which is 45 minutes from the hotel.