Classic Cambodia & Vietnam Itinerary

Phnom Penh is a friendly riverside city with loads of Khmer charm and faded French-colonial style. And while it’s very much a place on the move, Phnom Penh retains a distinct and at times quite complex personality. Confront the tragic history of Cambodia on a visit to the Tuol Sleng Museum, before paying respects to the thousands of Cambodians who died during the Pol Pot regime at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Then, take the opportunity to wander through the serene Royal Palace with its spectacular Silver Pagoda. During free time, delve deeper into Khmer history at the National Museum, hunt for silver and local crafts in the Russian Market or mosey along Sisowath Quay at sunset. Indulging in some strong local coffee is highly recommended - and the caffeine hit certainly helps to fuel some independent explorations.

Fly to Siem Reap, gateway to one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. Built between the 9th and 13th centuries when the Khmer Empire was the pre-eminent influence in South East Asia, the temples at Angkor were believed to represent the cosmic world and as such, were created in perfect balance, symmetry and composition. Join forces with a local guide and discover the fascinating history and mythology of Angkor Wat, the Bayon and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm. Fall in love with the resident wildlife on a visit to the Intrepid Foundation-supported Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity. Perhaps ease away any temple-fatigue with a massage back in Siem Reap or travel further afield to Banteay Srei, containing the most detailed carvings of all the temples. End this short-but-sweet experience by tucking into a sumptuous Khmer feast.

Daily life overflows onto the streets, into French-style cafes and then quietens in the peaceful pagodas of Ho Chi Minh City. Join the throngs of visitors who flock here to discover Vietnam’s rich culture and history.

Stop by the ornate Vinh Trang Pagoda before embarking on a fascinating Mekong Delta tour. Cruise the maze of waterways that are the lifeblood of the region and enjoy traditional Mekong hospitality on a homestay.

Awaken early to mingle with locals on the Mekong River's famous floating markets. Visit the mind-boggling Cu Chi Tunnels on the way back to Ho Chi Minh City then further enjoy the sights and sounds on a cyclo tour. Spend time at the sobering War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace before taking an overnight train to Nha Trang.

With a dramatic mountain backdrop and a shimmering sea, Nha Trang is the perfect place for a beach break. Enjoy a cyclo tour and then cruise the nearby islands, stopping to swim and snorkel in the balmy sea. Feast on the day's catch before experiencing Nha Trang's famed nightlife.

Once an international trading port, Hoi An still retains an enchanting sense of centuries past. Walk through the raucous Hoi An market, venture out to see the ancient Cham ruins at My Son or perhaps cycle to nearby Cua Dai Beach to soak up some rays.

Stop at lovely Lang Co Beach for lunch en route to the walled city of Hue, once the exclusive domain of Vietnam's royal rulers. See the ruins of the Imperial Citadel and a spectacular royal tomb before gliding peacefully down the Perfume River on a dragonboat.

Despite the throngs of bicycles, cyclos and motorbikes, Vietnam's bewitching capital Hanoi retains its French-provincial air. Visit the Temple of Literature and the Fine Arts Museum before attending an evening water puppet performance.

Start the day with breakfast at KOTO, an Intrepid Travel-supported organisation that trains disadvantaged young people in restaurant management and hospitality. Board a junk boat tour across the jade waters of Halong Bay and discover secluded beaches, secret grottoes and soaring karst peaks. Fall asleep to the sound of lapping water amid this incredible landscape.

See artisans crafting traditional ceramics before making tracks back to Hanoi. Finish up in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter and perhaps celebrate with a final feast.