Bangkok, Thailand 21-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Bangkok

Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel.

Settle in and prepare for your Bangkok adventure.

Traffic can be heavy; consider using the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai station and then a taxi or BTS to your hotel for faster travel.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel and take some time to refresh after your journey.

Chao Phraya River Cruise

Enjoy a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River, passing by illuminated landmarks like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace.

It's a beautiful way to see the city from a different perspective.

Many operators offer dinner cruises; book in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Includes buffet dinner.

Grand Palace & Emerald Buddha

Explore the magnificent Grand Palace complex, including the revered Wat Phra Kaeo, home to the Emerald Buddha.

Marvel at the intricate architecture and dazzling decorations.

Dress code strictly enforced: shoulders and knees must be covered. No transparent clothes or sleeveless tops. Entry: THB 500 per person.

Wat Pho & Reclining Buddha

Visit Wat Pho, Bangkok's oldest temple, famous for its colossal Reclining Buddha statue and as the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Take time to wander the tranquil grounds.

Located just a short walk from the Grand Palace. Entry: THB 200 per person. You can also get a traditional Thai massage here.

Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)

Take a cross-river ferry to Wat Arun, the iconic 'Temple of Dawn', known for its stunning prang (spire) decorated with colorful porcelain.

Climb for panoramic river views.

Accessible by a short ferry ride from Tha Tien Pier (near Wat Pho). Entry: THB 100 per person. Best visited in the late afternoon for beautiful light.

Chinatown Street Food

Dive into the vibrant culinary scene of Bangkok's Chinatown (Yaowarat Road).

Explore numerous street food stalls offering everything from dim sum to seafood and traditional desserts.

Best experienced in the evening when the street comes alive. Be adventurous and try various dishes. Easy to reach by MRT (Wat Mangkon station).

Prak Khlong Talat (Flower Market)

Visit Bangkok's 24-hour flower market, a sensory delight with vibrant colors and fragrant blooms.

Observe local vendors preparing intricate arrangements.

Best to go in the early morning for the freshest flowers and most activity, but it's open all day. Free entry.

Thai Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes with a hands-on cooking class.

Many classes include a market visit to select fresh ingredients.

Book in advance. A great way to immerse in local culture and take home new skills.

Siam Discovery & Shopping

Explore the modern shopping malls in the Siam area, such as Siam Discovery or MBK Center, for air-conditioned comfort and retail therapy.

A good contrast to the traditional markets. Plenty of food courts and cafes available.

Rooftop Bar Experience

Enjoy evening cocktails with breathtaking panoramic views of Bangkok's skyline from a rooftop bar like Sky Bar at Lebua or Octave Rooftop Bar.

Smart casual dress code often applies. Prices for drinks are higher than average, but the views are worth it.

Jim Thompson House

Explore the beautiful traditional Thai house and art collection of American entrepreneur Jim Thompson, who revived the Thai silk industry and mysteriously disappeared.

Guided tours are mandatory and included in the entry fee. Entry: THB 200 per person.

Lumphini Park Relaxation

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a paddle boat ride in Lumphini Park, Bangkok's green lung.

Spot monitor lizards and observe locals exercising.

A peaceful escape from the city hustle. Free entry. Paddle boats available for rent.

Thonglor Cafe Culture

Discover the trendy cafes and boutiques in the Thonglor district.

Enjoy a specialty coffee or a unique dessert in one of its many stylish establishments.

Accessible by BTS Skytrain to Thong Lo station, then a short walk or taxi. Great for people-watching and a relaxed afternoon.

Traditional Thai Massage

Indulge in a relaxing traditional Thai massage, a perfect way to unwind after days of exploration.

Many options available, from budget street-side massage to luxury spas. Price varies based on location and service.

Bangkok Art & Culture Centre

Visit the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre (BACC) to explore contemporary art, design, and cultural exhibitions from Thai and international artists.

Often has free exhibitions. Check their schedule for current displays. Conveniently located near Siam BTS station.

Last Minute Shopping

Grab some last-minute souvenirs or gifts at a local market or department store before heading to your next destination.

MBK Center offers a huge variety of goods, from electronics to clothing and souvenirs, often at negotiable prices.

Street Food Lunch

Enjoy one final taste of Bangkok's incredible street food for lunch, perhaps trying a dish you haven't yet.

Don't miss out on classic dishes like Pad See Ew or Mango Sticky Rice.

Relax & Pack

Return to your hotel to relax, pack your belongings, and prepare for your check-out tomorrow and onward travel to Cambodia.

Arrive in Siem Reap

Fly from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

Upon arrival, clear immigration and transfer to your hotel. Settle in and prepare for your Cambodian adventure.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your chosen accommodation and enjoy a relaxing lunch.

Take some time to freshen up before beginning your exploration of Siem Reap town.

Many hotels offer welcome drinks and refreshing towels upon arrival.

Old Market & River Walk

Take a leisurely walk through the bustling Psar Chas (Old Market), browsing local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.

Afterward, enjoy a stroll along the Siem Reap River.

Pub Street & Night Market Dinner

Experience the vibrant energy of Pub Street, famous for its restaurants, bars, and street food.

Afterward, explore the Siem Reap Night Market for dinner and souvenir shopping.

Try local delicacies like Amok (fish curry) or Lok Lak (stir-fried beef). Be prepared for crowds and lively atmosphere.

Angkor Wat Sunrise

Wake up early for the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat, a truly magical experience as the temple complex emerges from the darkness.

Hire a tuk-tuk for the day to navigate the temples efficiently. Bring a flashlight and wear comfortable shoes. Buy your Angkor Pass the day before to save time.

Explore Angkor Wat

After sunrise, thoroughly explore the magnificent Angkor Wat temple, admiring its intricate bas-reliefs and impressive architecture.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) as it is a religious site.

Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple

Continue to Angkor Thom city.

Enter through the impressive South Gate and explore Bayon Temple, famous for its smiling stone faces.

Baphuon & Phimeanakas

Discover Baphuon, a three-tiered temple mountain, and the nearby Phimeanakas temple, located within the former Royal Palace grounds.

Terrace of the Elephants

Visit the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, which were part of the royal palace complex and used for public ceremonies.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant.

Relax after a long day of temple exploration.

Ta Prohm Temple

Explore Ta Prohm, the 'Tomb Raider' temple, where massive tree roots intertwine with ancient stone structures, creating a magical atmosphere.

Preah Khan Temple

Visit Preah Khan, a large monastic complex that served as a Buddhist university and a temple for Jayavarman VII's father.

Lunch & Travel to Banteay Srei

Have lunch near the temples before heading further north to Banteay Srei.

The drive offers glimpses of rural Cambodian life.

Banteay Srei Temple

Discover Banteay Srei, a beautiful 10th-century Hindu temple renowned for its exceptionally intricate and well-preserved pink sandstone carvings, often called the 'Citadel of Women'.

Cambodian Landmine Museum

Visit the Cambodian Landmine Museum to learn about the devastating impact of landmines and the ongoing efforts for demining and victim support.

A humbling and educational experience, showcasing a crucial aspect of Cambodian history and recovery.

Apsara Dinner Show

Enjoy a traditional Cambodian dinner while watching an Apsara dance performance, showcasing graceful ancient Khmer art forms.

Tonle Sap Floating Village Tour

Embark on a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake to visit one of the unique floating villages (e.

g., Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas), observing local life on the water.

The experience varies with the season and water levels. Kampong Phluk offers a more authentic experience away from the main tourist hubs.

Local Cambodian Lunch

Savor authentic Cambodian dishes at a restaurant in Siem Reap town.

Artisans Angkor Workshop Visit

Visit Artisans Angkor, a Cambodian social business that aims to revive traditional Khmer arts and crafts and provide employment for young rural Cambodians.

See workshops for stone carving, lacquerware, and silk painting.

Free guided tours are available. A great place for ethical souvenir shopping.

Afternoon Spa & Relaxation

Indulge in a traditional Khmer massage or relax by the hotel pool after a busy day.

Farewell Dinner Siem Reap

Enjoy a final dinner in Siem Reap, perhaps trying a restaurant you've wanted to visit or revisiting a favorite.

Cambodian Cooking Class

Participate in a hands-on cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Khmer dishes.

Many classes include a market visit to source fresh ingredients.

A delicious and interactive way to delve deeper into Cambodian culture. You'll get to enjoy the meal you prepare!

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Spend your afternoon picking up any last-minute souvenirs or gifts from local shops or markets.

Hotel Pool Relaxation

Enjoy some final downtime by the hotel pool, reflecting on your adventures in Siem Reap.

Packing & Farewell Dinner

Pack your bags and enjoy a final Cambodian dinner.

Prepare for your journey to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, tomorrow morning.

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City

Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel in the city center.

Settle in and prepare for your Vietnamese adventure.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your accommodation and take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey from Siem Reap.

Explore Ben Thanh Market

Immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, a landmark known for its wide array of goods from local handicrafts and textiles to fresh produce and Vietnamese street food.

Practice your bargaining skills!

The market is a great spot for souvenirs during the day, and transforms into a night market with food stalls in the evening.

Street Food Dinner

Experience Ho Chi Minh City's renowned street food culture.

Sample local delicacies like Bánh Xèo (savory pancake), Gỏi Cuốn (fresh spring rolls), and of course, a delicious bowl of Phở or Bún Chả.

Cu Chi Tunnels Tour

Embark on a half-day tour to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War.

Explore the tunnels, learn about the ingenious traps, and understand the harsh conditions endured.

War Remnants Museum

Visit the War Remnants Museum, a powerful and poignant museum showcasing the effects of the Vietnam War.

The exhibits include military hardware, photographic displays, and personal accounts.

Prepare for a somber but important experience. Some exhibits are graphic.

Notre Dame & Central Post Office

Admire the impressive French colonial architecture of the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon and the beautiful Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Dinner in District 1

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in District 1, offering a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine.

Full-Day Mekong Delta Tour

Embark on a full-day adventure to the Mekong Delta.

Cruise through the lush waterways, visit local villages, enjoy tropical fruits, listen to traditional music, and learn about the local way of life. This usually includes a visit to a coconut candy workshop and a sampan ride through narrow canals.

Many tours include lunch. Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and insect repellent.

Dinner after Mekong Tour

Return to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant.

Perhaps try some Bánh Mì from a renowned street stall.

Reunification Palace

Explore the Reunification Palace, a significant landmark that symbolizes the end of the Vietnam War.

Tour the ceremonial rooms, private quarters, and the basement war command center.

Authentic Pho Lunch

Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch with a bowl of authentic Phở at a highly-rated local restaurant.

Explore Cholon (Chinatown)

Journey to Cholon, Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant Chinatown.

Visit the ornate Thien Hau Pagoda, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, and wander through the bustling Binh Tay Market, which offers a different atmosphere than Ben Thanh.

Haggling is expected at Binh Tay Market. A taxi or Grab is the easiest way to reach Cholon from District 1.

Rooftop Bar Experience

Enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City's skyline from one of its many chic rooftop bars.

It's a perfect way to reflect on your time in this dynamic city.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Use the morning for any last-minute souvenir shopping or revisit a favorite spot.

Look for local crafts, coffee, or unique Vietnamese fashion.

Vietnamese Coffee Experience

Enjoy a final taste of Vietnam with a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá) at a local cafe.

It's a quintessential HCMC experience.

Leisurely Lunch

Have a relaxed lunch, enjoying your last meal in Ho Chi Minh City before preparing for your onward journey.

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Return to your hotel to pack and make final preparations for your departure to Central Vietnam (Hoi An/Hue) tomorrow.

Farewell Dinner in HCMC

Enjoy a special farewell dinner to conclude your time in Ho Chi Minh City, perhaps at a restaurant offering elevated Vietnamese cuisine.

Flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang

Board your flight from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang International Airport (DAD).

Enjoy scenic views as you travel north.

Transfer to Hoi An

Upon arrival at Da Nang airport, take a pre-booked private car or taxi to Hoi An, a charming ancient town located about 30-45 minutes south.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel in Hoi An and settle in.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some regional specialties like Cao Lau or White Rose dumplings.

Many hotels are within walking distance of the Ancient Town.

Hoi An Ancient Town Exploration

Begin your exploration of Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wander through the pedestrian streets, admire the fusion of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architecture. Visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge.

Entrance tickets are required for some historical buildings; a single ticket often covers multiple sites.

Lantern-Lit Evening & Dinner

Experience Hoi An's magical evening ambiance as thousands of lanterns light up the streets and riverside.

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Thu Bon River.

Hoi An Central Market

Immerse yourselves in the bustling Hoi An Central Market.

Explore the stalls selling fresh produce, spices, textiles, and local handicrafts. It's a great place for people-watching and photography.

Perfect spot to see local life and find souvenirs.

Tailor Shop Experience

Hoi An is famous for its bespoke tailoring.

Visit one of the many renowned tailor shops to have custom-made clothing, shoes, or bags. Garments can often be made in 24 hours.

Research tailors beforehand for quality and price. Allow time for fittings.

Vietnamese Cooking Class

Participate in a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes.

Many classes include a market tour to select fresh ingredients.

Book in advance, especially during peak season. You'll get to enjoy the meal you cook!

Riverside Relaxation

After your cooking class, unwind with a drink at a riverside cafe, watching local life pass by on the Thu Bon River.

Dinner: Famous Banh Mi

Enjoy Hoi An's legendary Banh Mi.

Try out Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen or Banh Mi Phuong for an authentic and delicious street food experience.

Countryside Cycling Tour

Embark on a cycling tour through Hoi An's lush countryside.

Cycle past rice paddies, vegetable gardens, and water buffalo, visiting local villages and experiencing rural life.

Many tours include stops at local craft workshops or a traditional boat ride.

Relax at An Bang Beach

Head to An Bang Beach, just a short drive or cycle from the ancient town.

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing at one of the beachside restaurants with fresh seafood.

Loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, often free if you buy food/drinks from a restaurant.

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping in the Ancient Town, perhaps picking up some lanterns or silks, or simply relax back at your hotel.

Farewell Dinner in Hoi An

Savor a final dinner in Hoi An, choosing from its array of excellent restaurants, enjoying the charming atmosphere one last time.

Scenic Transfer to Hue via Hai Van Pass

Embark on a picturesque transfer from Hoi An to Hue.

The route often includes a drive over the stunning Hai Van Pass, offering breathtaking coastal and mountain views. You can stop for photos along the way.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch in Hue

Check into your hotel in Hue and enjoy lunch.

Hue is known for its delicate imperial cuisine; seek out a local restaurant to try 'Bún Bò Huế' (spicy beef noodle soup).

Explore the Imperial City (Citadel)

Discover the historic Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former capital of Vietnam.

Explore its grand palaces, temples, and the Forbidden Purple City, once home to emperors.

Wear comfortable shoes, as there's a lot of walking. An audio guide can enhance the experience.

Stroll Along Perfume River

Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Perfume River, enjoying the evening breeze and views of the Trang Tien Bridge.

Hue Evening & Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Hue, sampling more of the city's unique culinary offerings, perhaps something with a royal flair.

Perfume River Boat Trip & Thien Mu Pagoda

Embark on a dragon boat cruise along the Perfume River.

Visit the seven-tiered Thien Mu Pagoda, one of Hue's most iconic religious sites, with its historic monastery and impressive tower.

Private boats or group tours are available. It's a peaceful way to see the riverside.

Explore Royal Tombs

Visit one or two of Hue's magnificent royal tombs, such as the Tomb of Emperor Minh Mang (known for its harmonious landscape architecture) or the Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh (a blend of Vietnamese and European styles).

The tombs are spread out, so a car or guided tour is recommended. Each tomb has an entrance fee.

Traditional Garden House Visit

Experience Hue's unique garden houses, which exemplify traditional Vietnamese architecture and philosophy.

Some are open to visitors and offer a glimpse into local noble life.

Some garden houses require prior arrangements or are part of specific tours.

Farewell Dinner in Hue

Enjoy your final dinner in Hue, perhaps trying a different local specialty or revisiting a favorite dish before preparing for your departure to Hanoi tomorrow.

Breakfast in Old Quarter

Enjoy a final authentic Vietnamese breakfast.

Indulge in a bowl of Pho or try Banh Mi from a local street vendor, soaking in the morning atmosphere of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

There are countless excellent street food stalls and small cafes. Look for places with lots of locals.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Old Quarter for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

You can find silk products, traditional crafts, coffee, and local snacks.

Bargaining is common in many shops and markets. Dong Xuan Market is a major hub for various goods.

Hotel Check-out

Finalize your packing and check out from your accommodation in Hanoi.

Transfer to Noi Bai Airport

Arrange for a private car, taxi, or airport bus transfer from your hotel to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your departure.

Traffic can be unpredictable, so allow ample time for the transfer. Pre-booking a private car is recommended for convenience.

Airport Check-in & Departure

Complete check-in procedures and security at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) for your return flight to London.