Vibrant Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor
Vibrant Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor
Vibrant Vietnam & the Temples of Angkor
16 Days Starting in Hanoi, Vietnam and ending in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Visiting: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Siem Reap
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2725-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
With their long histories, interesting cultures, and sprawling landscape, Vietnam and Siem Reap offer something for everyone. Sightseeing tours in the cities feature the must-see sites, including Hanoi’s One Pillar Pagoda, built in 1049; Hoi An’s Japanese Covered Bridge; and Hue’s impressive Imperial Citadel. In Ho Chi Minh City, your sightseeing includes the War Remnants Museum, and the Cu Chi region, where you'll get to explore the deep, narrow tunnels constructed by the Viet Cong during the war. Vietnam isn’t just home to beautiful temples and historic sites though! You'll enjoy seeing some of Vietnam's most gorgeous sights and destinations via the water. A highlight of the trip is your cruise on Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the world's most amazing limestone formations. You'll sail by islets, caves, beaches, and floating villages. In Ninh Binh, a boat ride through the Trang An Landscape Complex, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes you through more spectacular scenery. You'll also enjoy a cruise in Hoi An on the Thu Bon River, where you'll pass unspoiled countryside.Continue to Siem Reap to explore the rich history of the Khmer Empire. Explore the spectacular ruins of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Angkor Thom; 10th-century Banteay Srei Temple, known for its intricate decorations; and more. You’ll also interact with children at a local school. These are just some of the many highlights on this tour through Vietnam and Cambodia. From the historic sites to the stunning scenery, this tour designed for savvy, value-minded travel lovers is a vacation of a lifetime!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Hanoi, Vietnam
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Lapis Hotel
Welcome to Vietnam’s capital city. Hotel rooms are available for a mid-afternoon check-in.
Day 2 : Hanoi
Location: Hanoi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Lapis Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today’s included sightseeing tour takes you to many of the city’s highlights, including the Temple of Literature, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and gateways, and One Pillar Pagoda, designed to resemble a lotus blossom. You will also see Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the fascinating network of alleyways and shop houses that make up the Old Quarter. Enjoy lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program created to teach local children restaurant skills for stable employment opportunities. This evening, you may choose to join an optional performance of Hanoi’s famed water puppets.
Day 3 : Hanoi - Ha Long Bay
Location: Ha Long Bay
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ha Long Plaza Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive to Ha Long Bay, one of Vietnam’s most scenic destinations, and board your afternoon cruise through the stunning bay. Enjoy lunch on board as you sail through the dramatic limestone islands, then explore the Sung Sot (Surprising Cave) and visit Titov Island.
Day 4 : Ha Long Bay - Ninh Binh
Location: Ninh Binh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Ninh Binh, often referred to as Ha Long Bay on land. This afternoon, visit Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a cruise through the stunning scenery of rugged peaks and valleys lined with rice fields. You’ll also visit Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam dating back to the 10th century. Continue to your resort.
Day 5 : Ninh Binh
Location: Ninh Binh
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your day with a visit to the Bai Dinh Temple complex to see the towering 13-floor pagoda and 30-foot-high bronze Buddha statue. Then, visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a three-tiered ancient pagoda nestled into a mountainside along with a cluster of cave temples. Lastly, travel to Mua Cave viewpoint and marvel at the stunning vistas of this breathtaking area. Save your energy as there are approximately 500 steps to the top! Enjoy some time at leisure this afternoon.
Day 6 : Ninh Binh - Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to Hanoi and board a flight to Danang on Vietnam’s central coast. On arrival, transfer to nearby Hoi An, Vietnam’s active trading center. The well-preserved architecture here reflects the influence of Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, French, and British traders.
Day 7 : Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start today with a walking tour of Hoi An Ancient Town including an old merchant house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese assembly Hall, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. For lunch, sample Cao Lao noodles, Hoi An’s most famous dish. The smoked, chewy noodles have a distinctive taste and are unique to Hoi An. Afterwards, take a cruise on the Thu Bon River, passing unspoiled countryside before visiting with a local farmer to learn about life on the river. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Day 8 : Hoi An
Location: Hoi An
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day to explore on your own. Perhaps spend it at the beach, take an excursion to My Son, or explore pottery and wood carving villages.
Day 9 : Hoi An - Hue
Location: Hue
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Indochine Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Visit the Cham Museum, then continue through the spectacular Hai Van Pass (weather permitting) to Hue. After lunch, get a glimpse of Vietnam’s unique past when you visit the tombs of the Nguyen Emperors: the Khai Dinh Mausoleum and the Royal Tomb of Tu Duc.
Day 10 : Hue - Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation Name: Indochine Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin today with a visit to the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda, the unofficial symbol of the city. The Thien Mu Pagoda has seven tiers, each dedicated to a step assumed by Buddha to reach enlightenment. Later, fly to Ho Chi Minh City.
Day 11 : Ho Chi Minh City
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Siesta Premium Saigon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today explore Vietnam’s largest and most vibrant city. Your walking tour takes you along Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat) past the Rex Hotel, Ho Chi Minh Square, the Municipal Theatre, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Next, visit the War Remnants Museum, followed by Ben Thanh Market, the largest and oldest in the city. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.
Day 12 : Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi Tunnels Excursion
Location: Ho Chi Minh City
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: La Siesta Premium Saigon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, visit the Cu Chi tunnels, an extraordinary network of tunnels more than 120 miles long used by the Viet Cong as a hideout and secret village during the war. See secret trapdoors, underground kitchens, living areas, and meeting rooms. If you are feeling adventurous, you may enter and explore the deep, narrow tunnels. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 13 : Ho Chi Minh City - Siem Reap, Combodia
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, fly to Siem Reap, which will act as your base during your visit to Angkor, considered by many to be the most spectacular architectural ruins on Earth!
Day 14 : Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, visit nearby Angkor, the ancient Khmer capital. Start your exploration at the best preserved and most famous of all the temples, Angkor Wat, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Featuring five trademark towers and stunning bas-reliefs, it has become a symbol of Cambodia. Next stop is Angkor Thom to see the Bayon Temple. One of the few Buddhist temples in Angkor, it features more than 200 striking faces carved in 54 towers and impressive bas-reliefs. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 15 : Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Lotus Blanc Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, visit Banteay Srei, a unique temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva built on a small scale from red sandstone, which can be carved like wood. Unlike the other temples, Ta Prohm has been left relatively untouched and is surrounded by jungle, with tree roots growing over and through the ruin walls. Experience the temple with the same wonder as the early explorers who discovered it. Visit a local school to interact with the children and help them practice their English. This afternoon and evening are at your leisure.
Day 16 : Siem Reap
Location: Siem Reap
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your tour ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Transportation
Transportation includes drives to various destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Hoi An, as well as flights from Hanoi to Danang and from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, there is a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap.
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Accommodation
Accommodation includes stays at The Lapis Hotel in Hanoi, Ha Long Plaza Hotel in Halong city, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa, Indochine Palace in Hue, La Siesta Premium Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, and Lotus Blanc Resort in Siem Reap.
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Meals
15 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 3 dinners are included.
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Sightseeing Tours
Included sightseeing tours in Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi tunnels, and Siem Reap.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei, Bayon Temple, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, Imperial Citadel Hue, Kai Dinh Mausoleum, Royal Tomb of Tu Duc, Ta Prohm, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Trang An Landscape Complex.
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Small Group Discoveries
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the performance of Hanoi’s famed water puppets and excursions to My Son or pottery and wood carving villages in Hoi An are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Vietnam and Cambodia are not included.
UNESCO Sites
Angkor Thom|Angkor Wat|Banteay Srei|Bayon Temple|Ha Long Bay|Hoi An Ancient Town|Imperial Citadel Hue|Kai Dinh Mausoleum|Royal Tomb of Tu Duc|Ta Prohm|Thien Mu Pagoda|Trang An Landscape Complex
Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select Asia tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Meals
15 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 3 dinners
Accommodation
The Lapis Hotel in Hanoi offers a central location near the French and Old Quarters, with amenities like an on-site restaurant and rooftop pool. Ha Long Plaza Hotel in Halong city provides excellent services and relaxation options. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh features spacious rooms, landscaped gardens, and pools. La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa combines Hoi An charm with modern influences. Indochine Palace in Hue offers a variety of amenities including a pool, gym, and spa services. La Siesta Premium Saigon Hotel in Ho Chi Minh City offers elegance and proximity to attractions. Lotus Blanc Resort in Siem Reap is ideal for exploring Angkor temples.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes drives to various destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Hoi An, as well as flights from Hanoi to Danang and from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, there is a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the highlights of the visit to Ninh Binh?
In Ninh Binh, you will visit the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a cruise through stunning scenery. You will also visit Hoa Lu, the first capital of Vietnam, and the Bai Dinh Temple complex, which features a towering 13-floor pagoda and a 30-foot-high bronze Buddha statue.
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What kind of activities are included in the tour of Hanoi?
The tour of Hanoi includes visits to the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh’s stilt house, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Old Quarter. You will also have lunch at Koto, a non-profit restaurant and hospitality program. In the evening, there is an optional performance of Hanoi’s famed water puppets.
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What will I see in Hue?
In Hue, you will visit the Cham Museum, travel through the Hai Van Pass, and visit the tombs of the Nguyen Emperors: the Khai Dinh Mausoleum and the Royal Tomb of Tu Duc. You will also visit the Imperial Citadel and Thien Mu Pagoda.
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What unique experiences are offered in Hoi An?
In Hoi An, you will take a walking tour of the Ancient Town, visit an old merchant house, the Hoi An Museum, a Chinese assembly hall, and the Japanese Covered Bridge. You will also sample Cao Lao noodles, take a cruise on the Thu Bon River, and visit a local farmer. There is also a full day to explore on your own, with options to visit the beach, My Son, or local pottery and wood carving villages.
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What can I expect during the visit to Angkor?
During the visit to Angkor, you will explore Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and the Bayon Temple. You will also visit Banteay Srei and Ta Prohm, which is surrounded by jungle. Additionally, you will visit a local school to interact with the children and help them practice their English.
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What can I expect during the Ha Long Bay cruise?
During the Ha Long Bay cruise, you will enjoy lunch on board as you sail through the dramatic limestone islands. You will also explore the Sung Sot (Surprising Cave) and visit Titov Island.
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What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?
Accommodations include The Lapis Hotel in Hanoi, Ha Long Plaza Hotel in Halong city, Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh, La Siesta Hoi An Resort and Spa, Indochine Palace in Hue, La Siesta Premium Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City, and Lotus Blanc Resort in Siem Reap.
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What are the main attractions in Ho Chi Minh City?
In Ho Chi Minh City, you will explore Dong Khoi Street, the Rex Hotel, Ho Chi Minh Square, the Municipal Theatre, Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. You will also visit the War Remnants Museum and Ben Thanh Market. Additionally, you will visit the Cu Chi tunnels, an extensive network used by the Viet Cong during the war.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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