21 Days Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam Itinerary
Embark on a 21-day adventure through Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, exploring iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in local traditions, and savoring the unique flavors of each country. This budget-friendly trip balances cultural immersion with relaxation, offering an unforgettable Southeast Asian experience.
Duration
21 days
Budget
$1000-1500
Best Time
November to March (dry season)
Activities
126
Daily Avg
$60/day
Cities
Bangkok (2d), Siem Reap (4d), Phnom Penh (2d), Siem Reap (2d), Phnom Penh (3d), Ho Chi Minh City (3d), Hoi An (2d), Hanoi (3d)
Pace
Fast
This Southeast Asia itinerary offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Experience bustling city life, serene temples, and picturesque coastlines, all while indulging in delicious and affordable cuisine.
Your itinerary covers 11 of 12 must-have experiences
Temples & Spirituality
Day 1: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Historical Sites
Day 8: Choeung Ek Killing Fields
Floating Markets
Day 6: Floating Village (Kompong Phluk or Chong Kneas)
Street Food Adventures
Day 1: Dinner at a Street Food Stall
Ancient Ruins Exploration
Day 4: Angkor Thom (Bayon & Baphuon)
Cultural Performances
Day 19: Water Puppet Show
Beaches & Relaxation
Day 10: Relaxation/Massage
Shopping at Local Markets
Day 8: Central Market (Phsar Thmey)
River Cruises
Day 2: Chao Phraya River Cruise
Tailoring Experience
e.g., Hoi An Tailors
Royal Palace Visit
Day 7: Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
Motorbike Tour
Day 15: Dinner and Street Food Tour (Optional)
Southeast Asia offers an explosion of flavors! From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, each country presents a unique culinary journey. Be prepared for bold spices, fresh herbs, and a delightful blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
Must-Try Dishes
Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, peanuts, bean sprouts, and egg in a tangy tamarind sauce. It's a quintessential Thai dish that's both savory and sweet.
📍 Street food stalls, restaurants all over Thailand
Fish mousse steamed in banana leaves with coconut milk and kroeung (Khmer curry paste). A creamy and flavorful dish that's considered a national treasure.
📍 Restaurants in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, especially those specializing in Khmer cuisine
A flavorful noodle soup with broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). A comforting and aromatic dish, perfect for any time of day.
📍 Street food stalls and restaurants throughout Vietnam, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
A spicy and aromatic curry made with green chili paste, coconut milk, vegetables, and meat (chicken, beef, or tofu). Served with rice.
📍 Restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine
Food Neighborhoods
Known for its vibrant street food scene, especially Chinese-Thai cuisine.
Known for its bustling streets and diverse range of Vietnamese dishes.
Variety of Khmer and international cuisine, plus lively nightlife.
Known for its street food stalls and local delicacies.
Vegetarian options are becoming increasingly available, especially in tourist areas. Look for dishes with tofu or vegetables. Vegan options can be trickier; communicate clearly with restaurants and ask about ingredients (e.g., fish sauce, shrimp paste). Halal food is available in larger cities. Be aware of potential allergens like peanuts and shellfish.
In Thailand, use a spoon and fork to eat rice dishes; chopsticks are typically used for noodle dishes. In Cambodia and Vietnam, chopsticks are common. Avoid sticking your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual. It's polite to try a little bit of everything offered. Tipping is not generally expected in casual restaurants, but is appreciated for good service in more upscale establishments.
Songkran (Thai New Year)
AprilExpect water fights and celebrations throughout Thailand. Transportation and accommodation may be affected.
Bon Om Touk (Cambodian Water Festival)
NovemberCelebrated with boat races and festivities in Phnom Penh.
Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year)
January/FebruaryMost important holiday in Vietnam, many shops and restaurants will be closed. Travel arrangements should be made in advance.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Take the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai station, then a taxi or tuk-tuk to your accommodation.$10-20
02:00 PM - Check into Hostel/Guesthouse
Check into your pre-booked accommodation in a budget-friendly area like Khao San Road or Sukhumvit.
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- 🚶Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat from Sathorn Pier to Wat Arun Pier.$3
03:00 PM - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Visit the iconic Wat Arun, famous for its intricate porcelain decorations and stunning riverside location.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride from Wat Arun (after crossing the river back to the main bank).$6
05:00 PM - Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Explore Wat Pho, home to the massive Reclining Buddha and a renowned traditional Thai massage school.
Book on Klook - 🚶N/A$5
07:00 PM - Dinner at a Street Food Stall
Enjoy delicious and affordable Thai street food near Wat Pho.
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- 🚶Walkable depending on location.$5-10 (for snacks/souvenirs)
08:00 PM - Explore the Night Market
Wander through a local night market for shopping and snacks.
Khao San Road/Sukhumvit
Khao San Road is great for budget travelers, while Sukhumvit offers more upscale options with easy access to transportation.
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season)
During the dry season, expect clear skies, sunshine, and comfortable temperatures. Rainfall is minimal, making outdoor activities enjoyable. Humidity is lower compared to other times of the year.
November to March is the dry season, offering pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring.
Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) in late January/early February can cause closures and increased prices.
Getting Around
BTS/MRT in Bangkok; songthaews and tuk-tuks elsewhere
Rabbit Card (BTS) / MRT Card
Use Grab for fair-priced rides. Always agree on tuk-tuk fare before getting in.
Travel
50-100 USDAccommodation
5-15 USDFood
10-15 USDActivities
5-10 USDUse local buses and trains instead of taxis.
Stay in hostels or guesthouses.
Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls.
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping at markets.
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples.
- 1Lightweight clothing
- 2Comfortable walking shoes
- 3Insect repellent
- 4Sunscreen
- 5Universal adapter
Visa applications (if required)
Vietnam and Cambodia require visas for many nationalities. Check requirements well in advance and apply online or via embassy 1-2 months ahead.
International flights
Book 3-6 months in advance for best prices, especially during peak season (Nov-Feb).
Popular tours and experiences (e.g., Halong Bay cruise, Angkor Wat sunrise tour)
Book 1-3 months ahead for highly sought-after tours, especially those with limited capacity or specific time slots.
Accommodation
Book at least 1-3 months in advance, particularly for popular areas or during festivals/peak season, to secure preferred options and prices.
Domestic flights / Train tickets (e.g., sleeper trains in Vietnam)
Book 1-2 months ahead, especially for popular routes or during high travel periods, as they can sell out.
Travel insurance
Purchase immediately after booking your first trip component (flights, tours) to cover cancellations and medical emergencies.
Airport transfers
Pre-book reliable airport transfers, especially for late-night arrivals, to avoid scams and ensure smooth arrival. Often available via hotels or apps like Klook.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), AIS stores, convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Metfone stores
📍 Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), Viettel stores
WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas. Connection speeds can vary. Some public areas also offer free WiFi, but security may be a concern.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for the best connectivity and data rates. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be mindful of data usage, especially when streaming videos. Consider using a VPN for added security when connecting to public WiFi.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three round pins (Thai)
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% at sit-down restaurants if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 10 baht
20–50 baht per bag for porters
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leave change at casual eateries.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Generally safe, but be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. Exercise caution with street food and drinks.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
191
1669
199
1155 (English-speaking)
Tourist police (1155) is the best option for visitors
Payments
Cash preferred at markets, street food, and small shops
Widely accepted at malls, hotels, and mid-range+ restaurants
Growing acceptance; PromptPay QR codes common
ATMs dispense 1000-baht notes; break them at 7-Eleven. Carry small bills for street vendors.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to March. You'll experience pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring the region's attractions.
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Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
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Trip Summary
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