18 Day Premium 5 Star Vietnam & Cambodia With Mekong River Cruise

Chao mung! Or welcome, to Vietnam and it’s beautiful ancient capital, Hanoi. Take some time to relax and depending on your arrival time, enjoy the afternoon or evening at leisure before your full day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

Check in: If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you head off on a full day exploration of this charming city.

This morning we will visit Van Mieu, otherwise known as The Temple of Literature. The Confucian temple dates back to 1070, and features peaceful walled courtyards and graceful gateways and is one of the best examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Following this, we continue on and visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex from the outside; an impressive mausoleum that houses the embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh.

This afternoon we head to the charming Old Quarter where we’ll enjoy a walking tour through Hanoi’s most historic and picturesque neighbourhood.  The Old Quarter is the oldest continuously developed area of Vietnam, highlighting more than 1,000 years of history. Explore the network of narrow alleyways known as 'The 36 Streets'. This is a wonderful place to soak up local life, and peruse market items from fabrics to crafts and exotic medicines. Each street was named to reflect the specialised trade of the merchants who had shops there, such as silk traders or jewellers. 

Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for an evening of leisure, or you may want to join an optional evening tour to explore the city’s incredible food culture.

This morning we depart on a leisurely drive to Tuan Chau Port. 

Upon arrival at this port city we will board our luxury Halong Bay cruise.

Onboard, enjoy a complimentary drink and take a seat in the lounge before a short welcome briefing with fellow guests. You’ll be shown to your luxury cabin where you can enjoy rich oak interiors, with high windows and private balconies to make the most of the incredible views during your cruise. Enjoy a decadent lunch onboard made from fresh local ingredients you cruise by the beautiful and quaint villages.

Early in the afternoon we arrive at Surprise Cave - one of the most spectacular and largest grottoes of Halong Bay. The mouth of the grotto is reached by ascending about a hundred stone steps.

Enjoy dinner on board of local Vietnamese specialties before retiring for the evening. Alternatively, you may wish to enjoy the ship’s evening activities including squid fishing on the boat with help from the crew.

Start your morning by enjoying sunrise Tai Chi class upon the sundeck as day breaks on the calm lagoon. You will then be transferred by tender to Titov Island. Spend time on the island, allowing time to climb to the peak for a breathtaking 360 degree view of the Bay (there is also an expansive viewing deck half way up). After the climb, there is time left to relax on the beach and have a swim.

Once back on board, enjoy a full breakfast and relax in the dining room and lounge or on the deck enjoying your last views of the bay before disembarking at midday. From here, we drive to Hanoi Airport (approximately 3.5 hrs drive) for our included flight south to Hue and transfer to your luxury resort for the next two nights. 

Your 5-star resort is ideally located in the quiet countryside in a rustic village setting surrounded by lush tranquil gardens and embodies the subtle and unique connection of treasured traditional style and Vietnamese modern art vibrancy.

Once checked in, the rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure. Enjoy the resort facilities or simply relax and take in the soothing natural environment and local culture.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before boarding a local dragon boat for a tranquil cruise along the famous Perfume River. The river received the name “Huong” (Perfume) for over a century as a result of flowers from upstream orchards dropping into the water during the autumn giving it a strong floral scent. We take the cruise to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda and then take a road transfer to visit the Imperial City. Established as the capital of unified Vietnam in 1802 CE this historic city is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Centre and retains many architectural works, temples, and palaces.

Following this, we visit the nearby village of Thuy Bieu well-known for its rustic ancient houses and gardens before returning to our resort for an afternoon of leisure and relaxation.

Enjoy breakfast at the resort before transferring by road to the beautiful heritage town of Hoi An. En route we stop by the picturesque  Lap An Lagoon for some amazing photo opportunities as well as the famous Hai Van Pass.

On arrival in Hoi An, we check into our luxury 5-star resort located only a short walk from the ancient town. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to relax and make the most of the hotel’s beautiful facilities or take a short walk and wander the ancient streets and canals of this well preserved town.

This evening, join a cooking class to learn to make one of  Hoi An's traditional dishes: the white rose dumpling. Following your class, enjoy a delicious dinner before returning to the hotel.

This morning enjoy a guided walking tour through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Quarter and spend time mingling with local vendors at the Hoi An Market. Previously known as Faifo, Hoi An was once the most important trading port in the region. Now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Centre, the city is one of the best places to discover well-preserved Vietnamese architecture.  

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. As the sun goes down the city lights up with a sea of colourful lanterns, giving Hoi An the moniker 'City of Lanterns' and making for a thoroughly photogenic and romantic atmosphere.

Enjoy breakfast before we transfer to the airport for our included flight to Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Saigon. 

On arrival, you are transferred to the Liberty Central Riverside Hotel where you will enjoy lunch.  Following this meet your local guide as you head off for a tour of the city. See the main sites of this dynamic city including Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post office. We’ll visit Cholon, the Chinese-influenced section of the city, including its hectic market and Ba Thien Hau Pagoda dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. 

Following your tour you are taken to your luxury cruise ship in preparation for your cruise along the incredible Mekong River. 

Your home for the next eight nights is the luxurious RV Indochine II. This premium ship offers spacious cabins with private en-suite facilities, each boasting a private balcony to enjoy the changing scenery during your voyage.  

Once checked into your cabin, spend time at leisure on the sundeck, an ideal place to relax and admire the landscapes and  enjoy the swimming pool and a spacious lounge bar. 

This evening, join the group this evening for a welcome cocktail followed by dinner on board. 

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before we depart for a morning tour of the infamous Cu Chi tunnels, an immense network of underground tunnels that were used by Viet Cong soldiers as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches.  We return to the ship for lunch, then head out again to visit the Museum of Vietnamese History. 

Set sail this afternoon around along Saigon river before dropping anchor just before the Chao Gao canal. Enjoy dinner on board this evening.

Today we sail along the splendid Chao Gao Canal while enjoying breakfast. We continue sailing onto My Tho and enjoy lunch onboard. On arrival at My Tho will have the opportunity to visit a charming bee farm and savour the delights of honey tea and exotic fruits. Later, you will then get to experience a local sampan ride through the exotic canals of My Tho. As the day winds down, we'll spend the night on board, relishing the memories of our remarkable experiences.

Enjoy breakfast on board the we stop for a shore excursion to discover a brick and pottery factory as well as a traditional factory producing puffed riced, rice-paper wrappers used to make nems, and rice alcohol. 

We return to the ship and enjoy lunch whilst sailing towards Sa Dec. Here we embark on a fascinating journey to visit the former house of Huynh Thuy Le, an enigmatic figure who Marguerite Duras immortalised in her literary masterpiece, "The Lover." This historic residence offers a captivating glimpse into the life and times of Huynh Thuy Le and provides a deeper understanding of the inspiration behind Duras' evocative storytelling. Following this intriguing excursion, you'll have leisure time to explore Sa Dec at your own pace. Sa Dec is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, captivating architecture, and vibrant local markets. Stroll through the quaint streets, immerse yourself in the town's rich culture, or simply take in the tranquil ambiance of this unique destination. 

Upon returning to the comfort of our ship, you will be treated to a sumptuous dinner prepared by our talented onboard chefs as we continue our journey towards Cambodia.

As we set sail towards Cambodia, enjoy the ever-changing landscapes along the river from your private balcony. Relax on the sundeck and soak in the breathtaking views. 

Indulge in a delightful breakfast on board before venturing to Chau Doc, a captivating city known for its thriving fish and fish farming industry on the Cambodia-Vietnam border. Explore the revered Ba Chua Xu Temple and the serene Tay An Pagoda, both offering insights into the area's rich cultural heritage. Back on the ship, relish a delectable lunch prepared with regional flavours. As we continue our journey towards Phnom Penh, enjoy the ever-changing scenery along the riverbanks. 

In the evening, we'll arrive in the vibrant capital city of Cambodia. Dinner will be served on board, allowing you to savour the moment while overlooking the enchanting river views. The night will find us remaining docked in port, providing a chance to unwind and reflect on the day's experiences. 

Special Information

You will be leaving Vietnam today.  The exit gate that you may be required to provide on your Vietnam visa application is Song Tien landport.  You will also cross into Cambodia today.  Please kindly be reminded that the Cambodia E-visa is not accepted at the waterway/river border.  For nationalities eligible for Visa on arrival (Ordinary Cambodia Tourist Visa) , you will be able to obtain this at the boarder in person from the cruise.  You will need to have 2 passport size photos and $35USD per person (subject to change).

Start your day with breakfast on board before embarking on a guided tour of Phnom Penh's cultural gems. Discover the magnificence of the Royal Palace, a stunning showcase of Cambodian architecture, and explore the mesmerising Silver Pagoda. Continue your journey to the National Museum, housing a trove of cultural treasures.

After a satisfying lunch in town, you have the option to visit the poignant Tuol Svay Prey School, once a harrowing detention, torture, and execution center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Take some leisure time to explore the local market and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

As we return to the ship, be enthralled by an enchanting Apsara dance show, a traditional Cambodian performance filled with grace and beauty followed by dinner on board. Tonight you'll spend the night at the port of Phnom Penh. Enjoy the evening at your leisure, making the most of your time on this unforgettable journey.

After breakfast, we will head to Koh Chen, a charming village renowned for its skilled artisans specialising in silver and copper craftsmanship. Enjoy a fascinating tour of their intricate work and witness the artistry firsthand. Lunch will be served on board.

Next, we'll explore the exquisite Vihara at Wat Kampong Tralach Leu pagoda, a stunning temple of great beauty and cultural significance. To reach the pagoda, we'll cross the picturesque village of Kampong Tralach, either by ox carts or "tuk-tuk," along a scenic road surrounded by breathtaking rice fields.  As the day draws to a close, our ship will anchor overnight, allowing you to relish the tranquillity of the river and the memories of the day's enriching experiences.

Today's expedition takes us to Kampong Chhnang, a bustling fishing port and a hub for fish farming.The area is renowned for its exquisite traditional pottery, a significant contributor to the nation's economy. Savour the flavours of local delicacies during a delightful tasting session. Lunch will be served on board as we continue our cruise on the vast Tonle Sap Lake, a vital part of the Mekong's hydraulic system and the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. 

Tonight, indulge in a delightful cocktail and gala dinner, creating cherished memories under the starlit sky. Our ship will remain anchored, offering you a serene and restful overnight stay on the tranquil waters of Tonle Sap Lake (or river depending on water levels). 

Following breakfast, we bid farewell to the cruise and disembark in Siem Reap. 

As you check out of your cabin, a seamless transfer awaits, taking you to a luxurious 5-star resort hotel nestled amidst a tranquil oasis of coconut palms, just a stone's throw away from the vibrant downtown district.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Revel in the opulent facilities of your hotel, unwind in the idyllic surroundings, or venture on a short tuk-tuk ride to explore the city's charm on your terms. Siem Reap's allure lies in its fascinating blend of ancient temples, rich culture, and modern delights, offering you an array of experiences to indulge in.

Whether you choose to unwind in your lavish accommodation or set off to uncover Siem Reap's hidden gems, this day of leisure provides the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories of your extraordinary journey.

Please note: for all departures running approximatley, between the months of December and August, due to seasonal low water levels you will transfer by coach from Koh Chen to Siem Reap (approximately 5 hours).

Today, we dedicate our time to the renowned temples of Angkor Wat. Early risers can join for a captivating sunrise experience over the temples before returning to the hotel for breakfast. 

Our journey begins with the majestic Angkor Wat, an awe-inspiring 12th-century masterpiece and one of the largest religious monuments ever built. Its grandeur exemplifies classic Khmer art and architecture. We explore the South Gate of Angkor Thom City, witnessing its well-preserved statues depicting Hindu mythology. Bayon Temple awaits, adorned with 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces of Avalokitesvara. Our visit also includes the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King.

In the afternoon, we delve into the enchanting Ta Prohm Temple, overgrown with striking fig trees and immense creepers, showcasing nature reclaiming man's creation. Other temples, like Banteay Kdei, Srah Srang, Ta Keo, Thommanon, and Chau Say Tevado, complete our exploration.

The evening unites us in a final farewell dinner, where we share stories and experiences with newfound friends, cherishing the memories of this remarkable journey.

Your journey through Vietnam, Cambodia and the incredible Mekong ends today after breakfast. You will be transferred by private vehicle to the airport in time for your departing flight. 

Should you wish to extend your stay in Siem Reap, extra nights accommodation can be booked at an additional charge.  Further details can be found under the ‘Upgrade Options’.

Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.