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Southeast Asia Itineraries: From 2 Weeks to 3 Months

The countryside near Pai, Thailand

Itinerary planning is a complex beast. There’s no single best route out there. Everyone has different travel desires, goals, and needs (let alone budgets). It’s why I’ve always shied away from discussing itinerary planning for long-term travel .

Showing someone how to plan a trip is one thing, but actually planning a trip for someone else is tricky, because I don’t know what they want or like.

Because, at the end of the day, there is no such thing as a perfect itinerary. You have to see and go where you want to go and, while suggested routes can help inspire you, at the end of the day, only you can plan the best route for you.

However, that can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to tackle an entire region like Southeast Asia . So, in this post, I’ll provide a few suggested itineraries to help you conquer this fantastic region.

For the two-week itinerary, I’ll break things up by day, but as we get into one-month and three-month territory, you’ll have a lot more flexibility with your time, so I’ll give rougher estimates of how to spend it.

After all, part of the beauty of travel is keeping yourself open to serendipitous moments and experiences!

Southeast Asia Itineraries

Southeast Asia Two-Week Itinerary

Southeast asia one-month itinerary, southeast asia three-month itinerary.

If you only have two weeks in Southeast Asia, I suggest sticking to just 1-2 countries so that you don’t spend all your time in transit. You’ll also be able to better soak up the atmosphere if you’re not trying to cram too much in. With a more limited time frame, just accept that you’ll have to leave some things to look forward to on your next trip!

Buddhist temples against a sunny sky in Bangkok, Thailand

Take a walking tour to get your bearings and get local recommendations from the guide. Bangkok Walking Tours or Free Bangkok Walks are two great free options — just remember to tip your guide at the end!

For a more in-depth tour, you can take a city highlights tour , on which your guide will take you through some of Bangkok’s major attractions.

While the famous Damnoen Saduak floating market just outside of Bangkok exists mostly for the benefit of tourists, I still like visiting it. The tours that go there leave early in the morning and last about half a day. It’s not a great place to shop (prices are much higher than elsewhere), but the area is good for photography and eating.

Where to Stay in Bangkok : Lub d Siam – This is a very popular spot for backpackers looking to stay somewhere other than the infamous party district that is Khao San Road. The hostel is modern, the rooms are spacious, and there are plenty of common areas to socialize in, including a café/bar.

Buddhist temple with flags flying against a sunny sky in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most famous temple (the pagoda supposedly contains relics of the Buddha himself). It offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and, at 6pm each day, you can watch the monks chant. The main other temples are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Phra Singh, Wat Suan Dok, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Jet Yot.

If you want to see elephants, a good way to get up close with them is to volunteer at or visit Elephant Nature Park. This sanctuary near Chiang Mai rescues abused and injured elephants from around the country. It’s a phenomenal place, and after coming here, you will know why you should never ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs 2,500-3,500 THB for adults.

Where to Stay in Chiang Mai : Hostel Lullaby – This fantastic hostel in the heart of Chiang Mai was even voted the best in Thailand. Besides the comfortable facilities, there are a ton of perks here, including free bikes, free breakfast, and free Thai boxing, cooking, and yoga classes.

Days 7-9: Chiang Mai to Bangkok Here you have a few options: stay longer in Chiang Mai to do more jungle trekking; head up to Chiang Rai to see the famous White Temple; or take the long way back down to Bangkok, stopping for a night in each of Thailand’s ancient capitals, Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, or spending some time in one of the national forests, such as the incredible Khao Yai National Park .

Once back in Bangkok, you can either head into Cambodia to see Angkor Wat if you’re ambitious, or just hang out in Bangkok for a few more days before your flight home.

If you choose to go to Angkor Wat, here are my recommendations:

Iconic archaeological site of Angkor Wat in Thailand

Be sure to visit the Landmine Museum. Landmines have devastated the country, maiming and killing thousands. They still cause destruction today, as remaining mines from the Vietnam War (which spilled over into Cambodia) are discovered every year. The museum has an in-depth exhibit that is very worthwhile, as it gives perspective on their use, dangers, and efforts to remove them.

Spend your day at Angkor Wat , the ancient site that was the center of the Khmer Empire that once ruled most of Southeast Asia. The temple was built in the 12th century and covers over 500 acres.

While a single-day visit can cover the main temples, this is an amazing site to explore, so I highly recommend two days (at least).

You can hire a tuk-tuk for the day or rent bicycles and explore on your own. Tuk-tuks have room for 3-4 people, making it a cheap and convenient option if you can split the ride with other travelers. You can also take a full-day guided tour to learn even more from a professional.

Admission is $37 USD per person for a day pass, $62 USD for a three-day pass, and $72 USD for a seven-day pass.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap : Mad Monkey – This is a fun, lively, and social hostel with a bar, pool, and lots of tours and organized activities to help you meet people and explore the city.

Day 13: Bus back to Bangkok Take the bus back to the Thai capital, where you can spend the last day of your trip exploring more of the many things to see and do in Bangkok , or just simply hang out, relax, and eat all the delicious Thai food you can before your journey home.

Day 14: Departure day Head off to the airport knowing that you made the most of your two weeks in Southeast Asia. Chances are that you only whetted your appetite for traveling through this amazing region of the world, and you might already be planning your next trip on your way back home!

With one month, you’ll be able to take it a little slower, see more places, and get off the beaten path a bit more. You can add another country and leave more flexibility in your itinerary.

Days 1-3: Bangkok Follow the Bangkok itinerary above, and stay for a few more days if you like! There are endless things to do in Bangkok.

For more recommendations, check out my Bangkok city guide .

Day 4: Bangkok–Chiang Mai With one month, you can choose to take the day train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. It’s not only cheaper but a nice way to see the countryside. Sure, you “waste” a day, but you see the countryside, experience how Thais take the train and can eat from vendors who briefly board at every stop.

The day train remains one of my favorite experiences in Thailand. Just make sure you have a good book as the journey is 10-13 hours long.

Days 5-7: Chiang Mai See the Chiang Mai itinerary above. For more recommendations on things to do, check out my Chiang Mai city guide .

Days 8-10: Slow boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, Laos After spending your first week in cities, take a load off and drift down the river on a slow boat. These boats generally take two days, stopping overnight at a guesthouse along the way. It’s a beautiful way to see the scenery and recharge a bit from a busy week.

Alternatively, if you want to save time, you can fly between the two destinations, or skip ahead in this itinerary to Vietnam .

Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang, Laos

Although it’s small (around 56,000 people live here), there’s a lot to see and do, with dozens of temples, streets lined with French colonial architecture, a bustling night market, river tours, and waterfalls. I came here for three days but spent a week.

Start off with a visit to the “Buddha Caves” (officially, the Pak Ou Caves). They hold over 6,000 Buddha statues that the locals still use for worship. There are standing Buddhas, sitting Buddhas, reclining Buddhas — you name it! You can visit solo or book a guided tour .

While you’re here, don’t miss the iconic Kuang Si waterfalls (you’ve probably seen them on Instagram already). They flow through the limestone-rich jungle and empty into a series of three gently cascading pools. While it’s one of the most popular attractions in the area (avoid the weekends, when it’s super busy), the Kuang Si Falls was also one of the most breathtaking things I saw in Laos.

Other things to do here include:

  • The Royal Palace
  • Mount Phousi
  • Wat Xieng Thong Monastery
  • The alms ceremony

For more things to do, check out my guide to Luang Prabang .

Where to Stay in Luang Prabang : Downtown Backpackers Hostel 2 – This is a great little hostel with free breakfast, moped rentals, clean dorms, and super helpful staff.

Buddhist statue, pagoda, and red gate against mountains in Vang Vieng, Laos

Kick things off with a tubing trip down the river. It’s the best way to relax and stay cool. Rentals cost around 55,000 LAK, which includes transportation to the starting point.

And if you want to stretch your legs, climb Pha Poak Mountain. It’s only a 30-minute climb to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the area’s limestone mountains.

Other things to see and do in Vang Vieng include:

  • The Golden Cave
  • Hot air balloon rides
  • The Blue Lagoon

For more things to do, check out my guide to Vang Vieng .

Where to Stay in Vang Vieng : Nana Backpackers Hostel – This is a fun, social hostel with a swimming pool, movie room, small gym, and bar with free vodka and whiskey every night from 7pm to 9pm.

Reclining golden Buddha in Vientiane, Laos

Nowadays, the city is a hub for café culture, cheap spas, golden temples, and diverse riverside markets. Much of its historical center has kept its colorful colonial architecture intact too, making it a nice area to stroll around.

Wander the wide boulevards, take in the crumbling mansions, chill out in Chao Anouvong Park, enjoy the flavorful local cuisine (there are a ton of delicious French bakeries here as well).

Make sure you visit Buddha Park, asculpture park is just 25 kilometers (15 miles) outside of Vientiane. There are around 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues here, all of which appear to be centuries old (they’re not — they were made in the 20th century out of concrete). While not “historic” per se, it’s still worth visiting, as there are all kinds of unconventional designs, including a three-meter (9.8-foot) demon head that you can enter, and staircases from heaven and hell that you can climb. Admission is 15,000 LAK.

You’ll also want to admire the Great Stupa (Pha That Luang). It’s a a 44-meter (148-foot) gold-covered stupa (dome-shaped Buddhist shrine) and is the most important monument in the country. Built by King Setthathirat in 1566, its exterior looks like a fortress with high walls. Inside, the walls are covered in Buddhist, floral, and animal imagery. Admission is 10,000 LAK.

Other things to see and do in Vientiane include:

  • The COPE Visitor Centre
  • Victory Gate (Patuxai)
  • Chao Anouvong Park
  • Lao Boat Racing Festival

For more things to do, check out my guide to Vientiane .

Where to Stay in Vientiane : Dream Home – This is a fantastic hostel that offers everything you need while staying in the capital. There’s free breakfast, comfy beds, AC, a nightly happy hour at the hostel bar, and a 24-hour reception with friendly staff members.

Days 20-22: Pakse Pakse is the gateway to Laos’ 4,000 Islands (in the Mekong River), so there isn’t a ton to do here other than chill out and relax. It’s a nice place to stop while heading south to Cambodia. Alternatively, you can take a 1.5-hour flight from Vientiane to Phnom Penh to save some time and give you extra days elsewhere.

Where to Stay in Pakse : Sanga Hostel – This cozy hostel has super comfortable beds, a restaurant with fantastic home-cooked food (free banana cakes!), and a lovely owner.

best asia trip itinerary

The Royal Palace is home to beautiful flower gardens and the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is made up of more than 5,000 silver tiles; inside is an emerald-covered Buddha and a diamond-covered Maitreya Buddha. The palace also has murals around its outer wall that tell the story of the Ramayana.

On the palace grounds are five stupas, with the two largest to the east containing the ashes of Kings Norodom and King Udung (the two most famous kings of modern Cambodia) and a statue of King Norodom on horseback.

The most important thing to see here, however, is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Tuol Sleng is a former school where the Khmer Rouge interrogated and tortured people in the 1970s. You’ll see rusty beds and torture devices, in sharp contrast to the beautiful trees and lovely jasmine smell in the gardens.

After, head to the Killing Fields. It may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for a hallowed and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power. Take a guided tour to get an in-depth look at this haunting place.

For more things to do, check out my guide to Phnom Penh .

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh : Mad Monkey – This is a lovely social hostel with a bar, restaurant, beer garden, and swimming pool. They organize all kinds of events and tours, so it’s easy to make friends here.

Days 27-29: Siem Reap Follow the Siem Reap and Angkor Wat itineraries from above.

If you have time, visit Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and UNESCO nature reserve. It is 52 kilometers (32 miles) from Siem Reap. Sailing down the river and around the lake gives you a look at how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway.

Day 30: Bangkok Head back to Bangkok for your flight home!

If you have three months to spend, you don’t want to have everything plotted and planned out to the day, like you might want to with the shorter itineraries above. Having flexibility to change plans is a must (and will make your travels much more enjoyable). On a trip of this length, you don’t want to burn yourself out too fast!.

With three months, you have enough time to be flexible and still see a lot so I’d recommend rough planning in weeklong chunks.

MONTH ONE: Thailand

Longtail boats on the beach in Thailand

Week 1: Bangkok and Backpacking Kanchanaburi Province Follow the three-day Bangkok itinerary above, and extend your stay by a few days to take things slower and see even more of this vibrant city. You can also do more day trips or even multiday trips to the surrounding region.

When you’ve had your fill of bustling Bangkok, take your time heading north. Kanchanaburi Province is a great place to spend some time, as it’s home to a lush, undisturbed forest, wetlands, and mountains that are perfect for trekking, either on multiday tours or day trips from Bangkok . The area is very biodiverse, with two wildlife sanctuaries: Thung Yai Naresuan, and Huai Kha Khaeng.

However, its history is rather dark. The infamous Death Railway linking Myanmar and Thailand runs through here, which was built during World War II by prisoners of war and civilians. Around 90,000 civilian forced laborers and more than 12,000 Allied prisoners perished in the railway’s construction. The bridge over the River Kwai is also located here, built using POW labor and the subject of both a famous film and a book. While these sights are haunting reminders, they are an essential part of Thailand’s history.

Ruins at the historical park of Ayutthaya in Thailand

Here are some options to consider for your meandering journey north:

Ayutthaya – Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam from 1350 to 1767, when it was razed by the Burmese during a war. The city’s ruins, with its palaces, temples, monasteries, and statues, form an archaeological park that is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s about 1.5 hours from Bangkok by train.

You can also visit on a day trip with Get Your Guide for just 900 THB.

Khao Yai National Park – Established in 1962, Khao Yai was Thailand’s first (and one of its best) national park and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s visually stunning and empty of tourists but filled with lush flora and fauna, bat caves, and even a few wild elephants. It’s about 2.5 hours north of Bangkok.

Where to Stay : Greenleaf Guesthouse – This hostel has the best tour/accommodation deals in the area. Let them know when you’re arriving by train or bus, and they’ll pick you up at the station.

Sukhothai – Sukhothai was the Kingdom of Siam’s first capital city, in the 13th century. There are hundreds of ruined buildings here, including the royal palace and countless temples.

There are actually three ruined cities that make up the UNESCO World Heritage site, and since they’re a bit spread out, seeing them by bike is a fun way to cover a lot of distance. You can take a full-day or two-hour bike tour with Sukhothai Bicycle Tour .

Where to Stay : Old City Boutique House – This hostel is in a great location, right near the entrance to the historical park. The guesthouse has AC, free breakfast, bike rentals, and friendly owners to help you with whatever you need!

Rope and wood suspension bridge in the jungle near Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is the main starting point for all sorts of jungle trekking tours. I like the three-day ones the best, but the longer the tour, the more interesting and secluded places you’ll visit. Be careful with whom you sign up, as many guides simply walk with you and don’t tell you much about the land or wildlife.

Moreover, if you visit a tribal village, make sure that the money stays with the villagers, and that they aren’t being exploited, which unfortunately happens a lot. Check out Stray Away Travel for some ethical tour options.

If you prefer to do a few different day trips rather than multiday tours, TripGuru Thailand offers full-day tours to Doi Inthanon National Park and the Chiang Dao cave system , among others.

Week 4: Northern Thailand If you want to continue soaking up northern Thailand, a great way to do so is on a motorbike trip. Many people rent bikes and tour the countryside and take in the scenery. This area is particularly popular for a 1–3-day trip. Mai Hong Son Province offers a great loop, starting in Chiang Mai and ending in Pai.

Note: Make sure that if you’re renting a motorbike, you’re comfortable with driving it. And never everdrink and drive. Accidents are incredibly common.

Pai – Pai has grown as a tourist destination in more recent years, but it is still a great place to escape some of the craziness of the larger cities. It’s nestled in rolling green mountains and near incredible hiking trails. Stay on the outskirts of this backpacker town in a lovely little bungalow, rent a bike, traverse the hills, and bathe in the cool waterfalls.

Be sure to take a day trip to the Tham Lot Caves; you can stop off to swim in waterfalls and hot springs on the way.

Where to Stay : The Famous Pai Circus Hostel – This is the best hostel in Pai, with a host of amenities, from air-conditioned dorms, comfortable mattresses, and bamboo bunk beds to an infinity pool, nightly bonfires, a fantastic buffet breakfast, free dinners, and overall, a great atmosphere.

Chiang Rai – Many people visit Chiang Rai on a day trip from Chiang Mai , expressly for the purpose of seeing the White Temple. This intricately designed complex with its reflective pools and shimmering white exterior is designed in the style of a Buddhist temple. However, it’s actually a work of art by Thai artist Chalermchai Kositpipat, and is still currently in the process of being completed.

Where to Stay : Baan Mai Kradan Hostel – This sleek, modern, and centrally located hostel has free breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, comfortable pod-style beds, and plenty of indoor and outdoor common areas to relax in.

MONTH TWO: Laos and Vietnam

Start your second month in Laos, wrapped in lush mountainous landscapes. I think it’s one of the most beautiful countries in Southeast Asia. Adventure travel is big here: you can go zip-lining, kayaking, hiking, and cave tubing all in one day. It used to be a popular destination for partying, but since the wild tubing days have been curtailed, it’s turned into a more relaxed, outdoor-oriented country.

Week 5: Slow Boat to Luang Prabang Take the two-day slow boat to Luang Prabang. Once there, follow the Luang Prabang itinerary above, but at a slower pace. You can also spend some time in the surrounding, even smaller villages like Nong Kiew, a sleepy village is located a few hours from Luang Prabang. The towering limestone cliffs surrounding it are ideal for experienced climbers, and there are many hiking trails leading to nearby waterfalls and caves. You can take the bus from the city for about 40,000-65,000 LAK.

Where to Stay : Lamorn Guesthouse – This is an incredibly affordable guesthouse located right on the river. The rooms are basic but clean, each with its own private bathroom and air-conditioning.

Week 6: Vang Vieng and Vientiane Follow the itineraries for Vang Vieng and Vientiane above. Then, you can either choose to continue your trip in Laos by heading south to Pakse and 4,000 Islands (in which case, follow the itineraries outlined above), or head on to Vietnam.

If going to Vietnam, you can take an overnight bus to Hanoi or a quick flight from Vientiane. If flying, keep in mind that there are only direct flights a few times a week (otherwise you must connect through Bangkok), so plan ahead if going with that option.

best asia trip itinerary

It’s also one of the best places to eat endless bowls of pho, bun cha, or cheap bahn mi from food vendors on just about every street corner.

Start your visit by exploring the narrow streets of the Old Quarter. It’s 2,000-year-old streets are a web of shopping opportunities and cheap eateries. There’s also a lot of fascinating Old World architecture that highlights the influence the French had on the area.

Hanoi is also a good base for doing multiday tours to postcard-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay. One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, the area comprises more than 3,000 islands, all with different activities on offer. Tours here usually last 3-5 days and can include sleeping on a boat or staying on some of the islands around the bay, as well as cave tours and kayaking.

If you don’t want to do a longer cruise, you can choose a two-day (overnight) cruise or a full-day trip from Hanoi ; however, given that you’re on a three-month adventure, I’d recommend going with the few-day options.

Other things to see and do in Hanoi include:

  • The Temple of Literature
  • Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
  • Dong Xuan Market
  • Quan Su Pagoda

For more things to do, check out my guide to Hanoi .

Where to Stay : Little Hanoi Hostel – Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, this hostel has air conditioning, free breakfast, free welcome drinks, and — most importantly — clean, comfy rooms. The staff will help you book tours of the city and surrounding region.

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Ho Chi Minh City – My favorite Vietnamese city after Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) is the largest and most chaotic in the country. Motorbikes, bicycles, cars, and rickshaws go wherever they please, and lots of street stands and markets spill into the traffic lanes.

It’s a metropolis with a billion things happening at once, and a lot to offer travelers. Stay a few days here to take in the wonderful shops, fantastic nightlife, delicious food, plentiful historic sites, and interesting (though propaganda-heavy) museums.

Where to Stay : The Hideout – This is a conveniently located, social hostel with super clean rooms, free beer at the bar every day, and showers that you can use even after you check out. They organize many tours of the city and area as well.

MONTH THREE: Cambodia

Week 9: Phnom Penh and surroundings Follow the above suggestions for Phnom Penh, but also head out to Kirirom National Park for a day (or multiday) trip. This park has all sorts of walking and mountain biking trails, many waterfalls, and a few lakes. It was the first official park in the country and is a good place to take a break. The park is around a two-hour drive from the city, so you’ll need to hire a driver for the day. The best way to do this is to find some travelers to join you so you can share a ride.

A small boat on the beach in Sihanoukville, Cambodia

If you’re looking to soak up some sun, Independence Beach and Otres Beach are probably your best bets. But mainly, Sihanoukville is a jumping-off point for other islands and beach towns in the area, such as:

Koh Rong – This island is a 45-minute ride from Sihanoukville. If you’re pressed for time, you can do it in a day trip, but stay overnight if you can. The beaches here are way better than on the mainland (and a lot less polluted), and there’s great snorkeling and diving.

Bokor National Park – Hike through a stunning rainforest or see the atmospheric ruins of the French aristocracy for whom Bokor was a big drawback in the day. You’ll have some amazing views, and there are ruins, waterfalls, and temples all around.

Kep – This quaint beach and fishing village is a quiet version of Sihanoukville but without a party atmosphere, therefore a nice place to relax near the ocean. It’s famous for its pepper crab and empty beaches. Sure, it’s quite sleepy and there’s not a lot to do, but it’s the perfect place to relax, read a book, and eat all the delicious crab. You can also spend some time on nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay), a secluded and charming escape from the world if you’re looking to disconnect.

Kampot – This is another quiet town on the coast. Most people come here to enjoy the scenic riverside views as well as the rolling hills and pepper farms that surround the city. The area used to be a getaway for the French, so you’ll see old colonial architecture around. At night, the street near the old bridge is lined with fruit shake vendors. Try a million — the city is famous for them. Also, if you only do one thing in this entire itinerary, make sure it’s eating the ribs at the Rusty Keyhole — they are some of the best ribs I’ve ever had.

Week 11: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat Follow the above suggestions for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat but at a slower pace. There’s a lot to see and do in the area. You can easily spend several days just exploring Angkor Wat. You can also do more day trips into the surrounding region.

A great way to spend a day is to head to Koh Ker, located in the jungle around 2.5 hours from town. Koh Ker was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire, and many of the temples here are over a thousand years old. It’s a massive archeological site that sees far fewer tourists than Angkor Wat.

For another fun day trip, head to Phnom Kulen, considered the country’s most sacred mountain. It’s located just 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Siem Reap and offers some amazing jungles, hiking, and picturesque waterfalls where you can take dip to beat the heat. You can easily spend a day here. If you head up to the summit, there are some great views, as well as a large reclining Buddha statue. Try to arrive early, as the park fills up by lunchtime.

Colorful sunset over the harbor at Ko Phi Phi island in Thailand

There’s seemingly an island for every type of traveler here. Some are overdeveloped, while others only have a single bungalow. Some of my favorites are Ko Samet, Ko Taruato, Ko Lanta, Ko Chang, Ko Tao, Ko Jum, Ko Lipe, Ko Samui, and the Similan Islands. You could easily spend weeks (or months) bopping around to different islands, but if you’re on your last week, just choose one or two, depending on what you’re looking for.

Some recommendations to get you started:

Ko Lipe – This lesser-known island is one of my favorite places in the world. There are amazing seafood meals, beautiful beaches, and warm waters in which to swim. I came for three days and ended up staying for a month. In the last few years, it has become more developed, and it’s not the sleepy little island it used to be, but it’s still way less touristed than many other destinations in Thailand.

Phuket – Phuket is the biggest destination for tourism in Thailand. There are great beaches and amazing activities on this island. While most visitors stick to the overdeveloped south, if you stay away from Patong Beach, you can avoid most of the crowds. In fact, the northern part of the island is one of my favorite places to visit in all of Thailand.

Ko Phangan – This island is home to the infamous Full Moon Party , one of the most famous parties in the world, with a lot of drinking, dancing, and drugs. Each bar has its own sound system, so you’ll hear different music loudly blasting onto the beach every few feet. The beach itself is lined with people selling alcohol, fire dancers putting on shows, and little booths selling glow-in-the-dark face paint.

Ko Tao – If you’re looking to dive in Thailand, go to Ko Tao , which caters specifically to divers. If you dive here, be sure to see Elephant Head Rock, as the reef is home to plenty of fish, snappers, rays, and turtles. Day trips start at 5,900 THB for two dives, including equipment and park fees.

After your time in the islands, head back to Bangkok for your return flight home.

If you’ve got even longer, this region has so much to offer — from Malaysia to Singapore to Indonesia and more!

Southeast Asia is one of the best regions to backpack in. It’s fun, affordable, safe, and has something for everyone. But it can be tricky to plan a trip here, as there is a ton to see and do. So, as you try to craft the perfect Southeast Asia itinerary, just keep in mind that plans change. You meet people or learn about something new, and all of a sudden your meticulous preparation goes out the window.

These days, I leave much more room in case plans change — because they always do. Give yourself that wiggle room. That way, no matter what comes your way, you’ll be able to adapt.

Be flexible. Go slow.

That’s how you plan an amazing itinerary. Not only to Southeast Asia but anywhere in the world!

Book Your Trip to Southeast Asia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • Safety Wing (best for everyone)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money too.

Want More Information on Southeast Asia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Southeast Asia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The Ultimate Southeast Asia Itinerary

06/17/2018 by Ashley Yap 14 Comments

Planning a trip to Southeast Asia? This epic itinerary is the result of my 2 years spent in Southeast Asia, with many spots that are off the beaten path. Whether you are looking at spending 2 weeks, 1 month, or 3 months in Southeast Asia, this itinerary will help you plan your trip easily. #SoutheastAsia #SEATravelTips

The parallel universe called Southeast Asia draws me in over and over again. Coming to Southeast Asia feels like coming home. Each time I return, I find comfort in the ease of traveling there, the excitement of new discoveries, and the energy hanging in the sweet, sticky air.

I’ve traveled in Southeast Asia for over 2 cumulative years, going from popular spots to places that do not even have an English name yet. Whether you are a budget backpacker, solo traveler, a couple, family, or a group of friends, Southeast Asia’s bound to have something intriguing for you. This could make planning a trip to Southeast Asia overwhelming – there’s just so much to see and do!

So let’s make it easy. Here are a few amazing Southeast Asia itineraries, customized to different interests, ranging from 2 weeks to 3 months:

Table of Contents

2-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary

While two weeks is simply too short to attempt to see all of Southeast Asia, the good news is that you can still get a delicious taste of Southeast Asia all within 2 weeks.

My advice is to pick fewer places to see, and take travel time into account. Some countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam are easy to get around, whereas countries like Myanmar and the Philippines require much longer travel times to move from one place to another. Here are a few itinerary suggestions for 2 weeks in Southeast Asia that cover 2 countries:

Best of Both Worlds: Philippines + Singapore

southeast asia itinerary

Spend about 10 days in the Philippines and maximize your time in nature, be it the beautiful islands , the most stunning rice terraces, or the amazing waterfalls. You can narrow down the specifics by picking your favorites from this itinerary . Then fly over to Singapore and enjoy the metropolitan city, eat all the food, and have the country’s signature drink, Singapore Sling, at one of the many speakeasy cocktail bars before your flight home.

Hiking Adventures: Borneo + Indonesia

Spend about 4 days in Borneo and hike up to the country’s highest peak, Mount Kinabalu , which requires a minimum of 2 days, then check out the orangutans of Sepilok. Next, fly over to East Java, Indonesia, to hike Mount Rinjani , or Mount Bromo . Spend your last few days relaxing in Bali or Lombok before flying home.

Sun, Sea, and Salt: Southern Thailand + Malaysia

Spend a week in each country. Both countries are home to some of the most gorgeous islands I’ve ever been to. Some of my favorite islands are Koh Chang , The Similan Islands, Koh Yao Noi , Langkawi , The Perhentian Islands, and Tioman Island.

A Cultural Experience: Myanmar + Cambodia

Spend about 10 days in Myanmar, not only because there’s  so much to see and do , but also because transportation can be pretty difficult. Expect to spend some nights on bumpy overnight buses. Bagan, Mandalay, and Yangon are awesome for anyone seeking a cultural experience thanks to the beautiful temples and the less touristy feel of Myanmar. Fly over to Cambodia and continue your journey with an awe-inspiring trip to the majestic Angkor Wat (you will need at least 2 full days for that, trust me!), and hang out with the locals before your flight home from Siem Reap.

Overland Travel: Southern Vietnam + Cambodia

Spend a week in each country. There’s a ton of things to do in both southern Vietnam and Cambodia, but it’s also easy to pick and choose based on your interests. My suggestion is to start your trip in Siem Reap and see as much as you can of Angkor Wat in 2 days, and take an overnight bus to Sihanoukville’s Otres Beach for some R&R time, before another bus ride to Ho Chi Minh City. Apart from eating all the food , there’s a lot of history to explore especially for those interested in visiting the Củ Chi tunnels and the War Remnants museum. From there, it’s another bus ride to Mui Ne for some sandboarding fun, and Da Lat to check out some beautiful waterfalls, before flying home from Ho Chi Minh City.

Slow-Paced Travel: Laos + Northern Thailand

southeast asia itinerary

Laos is incredibly slow paced and rustic, which is great for relaxation and discovery. Spend about 9 days in Laos and you will find yourself surrounded by the most incredible waterfalls in the northern city of Luang Prabang, floating down the river on a tube, or motorbiking the Bolaven Plateau down south. Then take a slow boat to northern Thailand, and spend the next few days exploring Pai , savoring delicious local food, and temple hopping  in Chiang Mai before flying home.

best asia trip itinerary

First Name:

1-Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

If you have a full month, I’d suggest picking 1 country and really doing it justice, or picking 2 countries and spending about 2 weeks each. You can refer to the itineraries above and combine 2 of them, or pick 3 countries and spend about 10 days each. Here are some more adventure possibilities:

Island Fever: Philippines + Indonesia

southeast asia itinerary

One could easily spend a full month just in Indonesia or the Philippines, and still feel rushed since both are island nations with so much distance to cover. The good news is both have tons of variety and each one has its own unique luster. The Philippines is known for friendly people and stunning beaches, whereas Indonesia is known for having great food, some of the best diving in the world, and unique culture on each island. The good news is both are pretty cheap to enjoy. I suggest either picking one to explore over the course of one month, or spending half of your time in each. Here’s a Philippines itinerary and an Indonesia itinerary to help you narrow down exactly where you wish to go.

If you’re into diving, after much exploration in all of the best spots in both the Philippines and Indonesia, I can confidently recommend Raja Ampat if traveling in October – April and Komodo if traveling in May-September. Both will blow your mind!

Food and Culture: Singapore + Northern Thailand + Myanmar

southeast asia itinerary

Myanmar is not the quickest to travel through, but it’s also one of the best places in Southeast Asia for cultural exploration, gorgeous temples, friendly locals, and an opportunity to head farther off the beaten path than one can find in places like Thailand these days. With three weeks in Myanmar, you should be able to complete this Myanmar itinerary .

Best of both worlds: Vietnam + Cambodia

southeast asia itinerary

One of the best trips in Southeast Asia is traveling from tip to tip of Vietnam, either beginning in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (but don’t forget to include  Sapa, Vietnam !). Give this Vietnam itinerary at least three weeks if you can, then head into Cambodia for Angkor Wat and if you have time, check out the smaller towns like  Kratie in Cambodia or head to the coast.

Off the beaten path: Laos + Myanmar

If you want to get away from the typical tourist route and are at peace with missing the Thai islands, focus on Laos and Myanmar, both of which are stunning countries that get fewer visitors. Either give two weeks to each country, picking your favorites from the Laos and Myanmar itineraries , or give one more weight and spend the bulk of your time in whichever calls to you more. Just make sure that at some point, you’re able to get to a major enough city to fly between the two to save time.

3-Month Southeast Asia Itinerary

You’ve got three months in Southeast Asia? Awesome! You can take your time more and enjoy each place you visit a bit more fully and feel less like you’re rushing around. While it may be tempting to try to blast through every country in Southeast Asia within these three months, as many travelers do, I highly advocate taking this time to more deeply immerse in the local culture and explore further than the well known destinations.

Since you have so much more time than the other itineraries, I’d leave a lot more room for serendipity and just pick a few must-sees to plan your trip around.

Here are the places that I recommend based on different interests to help you build a framework:

If You’re into Local Culture

southeast asia itinerary

For me, part of the allure of Southeast Asia is the various cultural sites and temples. Most countries have an interesting mix of different history, religions, and beliefs, resulting in different religious sites, styles of architecture, and cuisines. Here are the go-to places if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture:

Bagan, Myanmar: A UNESCO Heritage site and valley of more than 2,000+ ancient temples built during a golden era of Burma in the 12th century, this place is a must-see if you love temples. The best way to explore Bagan is to rent a bike and roam freely. Chances are you will end up in your own private little temple with no one else around to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset.

Inle Lake, Myanmar: The floating villages, which are essentially neighborhoods on stilts, where locals live in huts built above a network of marsh and grass waterways, is a beautiful place to take a peek at the locals’ daily life. Take a boat and see what it’s like living on water.

Luang Prabang, Laos: Aside from the popular Kuang Si Waterfalls, Luang Prabang is also known for the early morning alms, where hundreds of monks walk along the streets to collect offerings from the locals. It is quite a sight that is worth setting your alarm for. Just make sure you watch it with distance and respect, and not be one of those tourists who shove their big cameras up in the monks’ faces.

Siam Reap, Cambodia: Angkor Wat is perhaps the most recognizable temple in Southeast Asia. Though the ticket prices have increased steeply over the years, you should still consider visiting it, especially if you are interested in temples and ruins.

Chiang Rai, Thailand:  The north of Thailand is home to some of the most creative temples I’ve seen, and there are hundreds of them. I promise you won’t get templed out if you pick the right ones to visit, though. My personal favorite is the White Temple , an architectural wonder that started in 1997, and is still undergoing construction until 2070.

Borneo: In Sarawak, the local tribes stay together in a longhouse. By together, I mean with the entire extended family. You can arrange a longhouse homestay with the local communities and experience what it’s like to live as a local tribe. Follow the family around as they go about their day, hang out with the children, and chat with the elders for a unique and unforgettable experience. Similar experiences are available in Sapa, northern Vietnam.

If You’re a Foodie

southeast asia itinerary

Bangkok, Thailand:  So. Much. Food! Whether it’s a local food market, street food stalls, or the restaurants galore in the giant shopping malls, Bangkok is guaranteed to satisfy your appetite. What’s really cool about Thai food is that you can try the same dish at drastically different price points. Pad Thai is a great example – I’ve had them straight from the wok at a night market for less than $1, at local restaurants for a bit more, and at luxury hotels for 5 times the price. To be honest, the street version is always my favorite! Needless to say, being a foodie in Bangkok is a lot of fun. Here are a few more of my suggestions on how to really fall in love with Bangkok.

Chiang Mai, Thailand : Aside from the delicious northern cuisine, Chiang Mai is also a great place to attend a cooking class and bring new skills home. In Chiang Mai, I went with Basil Cookery school which was pretty healthy and very well-run. You can see more about the cooking class and other Chiang Mai favorites here.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia : The capital city of Malaysia is a foodie’s wonderland, thanks to the country’s multiracial profile. Spoil yourself and indulge in Chinese, Malay, Indian and international cuisine at a reasonable price range. Immerse in the local culture by checking out a mamak (Indian Muslim eatery) for some awesome supper at night. There is a popular mamak within walking distance from the Petronas Twin Towers, in case you are wondering which one to go to!

Hanoi, Vietnam : Vietnamese food is a powerhouse mix of influences from all over the world. French, Chinese, and Japanese flavors blend with Vietnam’s own unique approach to food to create an unforgettable culinary experience. In Hanoi, the best way to sample the food is through a street food tour. Just ask your hostel / hotel for recommendations! Also, don’t forget to try an egg coffee at Cafe Giang! It sounds strange but it’s probably the best coffee I’ve ever had in my life, and that’s coming from a friend.

Singapore : As it’s the most expensive country in Southeast Asia, one would think that eating in Singapore is an expensive affair. I was very pleasantly surprised at how easy it is to find cheap and delicious street food through the hawker stalls, as well as hippie cafes serving western and even vegan food when I felt the need for a change.

If You’re into Beaches

southeast asia itinerary

These are not the typical suggestions you probably see that feature Phuket and Koh Samui. I like the places that fly under the radar a bit more, just on the cusp of popularity. They’re amazing because of who they attract, the fact that they aren’t as crowded, but that they offer the same as, or even more than, their more-known counterparts.

El Nido, The Philippines : With beautiful white sand beaches and blue waters, El Nido has everything a beach lover wants. Don’t limit yourself to just the main island, as there are many small islands around it worth exploring. Just search around and book an island hopping tour , and you will find yourself swimming in the crystal clear water, with a chance to encounter whale sharks and manta rays. For a unique experience, you can also camp on the beach.

Siargao, The Philippines : An off the beaten path island that is becoming more popular, but is still a laid-back surf island. Locals will welcome you into their guesthouses with open arms for you to explore powdery, undeveloped nearby islands, local cafes, fish markets, and surf!

The Nusa Islands, Indonesia : You can easily hop from one island to another, which is what makes the Nusa Islands so appealing even for those that are short on time. Each island has a ton of beautiful beaches and things to do. Click here for an awesome Nusa Islands itinerary !

The Gili Islands, Indonesia : Another 3-in-1 package deal, you can hop from Gili Air, to Gili Meno, and to Gili Trawangan . Each island offers a slightly different vibe, but all three islands have one thing in common – gorgeous beaches.

Tonsai Beach, Thailand : Rock climbers, slack liners, and beach bums alike love this hippie paradise. Go there and enjoy, but don’t tell anyone about it, okay?

Koh Chang, Thailand : I love Koh Chang because it’s closer to Bangkok than the southern islands in Thailand, making it a great choice for those low on time, and it’s just as beautiful but less touristy. It’s also lovingly referred to as the ‘last cheap island’ in Thailand. Lonely Beach is the backpacker hangout, though the whole island is worth exploring. It is also, in my opinion, the best island in Thailand for solo backpackers.

Perhentian Islands, Malaysia : These two islands right next to each other are so darn beautiful, and there’s a nice backpacker vibe on the smaller island. Book ahead when heading here, as things fill up quickly. Internet is very limited on the island, which is perfect for those who are seeking for a break from social media and work emails. It’s also great for diving!

If You’re into Hiking

southeast asia itinerary

Mount Rinjani, Indonesia : This 3 day/2 night hike was a truly unforgettable experience for me. I recommend showing up on Lombok and booking directly with a tour operator there rather than organizing through a travel agent elsewhere in Indonesia or online. The first two days of the trek are not too challenging, though the last day gets tough, offering a sweeping view from the top of the volcano as a reward. Find the  full guide to hiking Mount Rinjani here . I also highly recommend staying in Lombok and exploring the many waterfalls and beaches. It’s one of my favorites in all of Southeast Asia.

Mount Bromo, Indonesia : Mount Bromo is probably Indonesia’s most famous volcano. It sits at the eastern end of Java between Surabaya and Yogyakarta and is quite often lumped in as part of a tour heading out of one of those two cities. There are tons of tour operators selling Jeep tours to Mount Bromo, which is fun to some, but I did it independently and preferred it that way.

Kawah Ijen, Indonesia : Slightly more off the beaten path compared to Mount Rinjani and Mount Bromo, Mount Ijen is perfect for those who want to see something different (note: blue flames!). The volcano itself  is beautiful but hiking in with the stars, getting up close to the blue flames and viewing the truly stunning sunrise are what makes Mount Ijen so unique and special.

Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia : Why not hike up to the highest mountain in Southeast Asia? I managed to hike to the top in one day , but since the earthquake, it is no longer permitted. Hikers are required to do a minimum of 2D1N compulsory climb these days. The hike is challenging, almost entirely straight up stairs, but the view on top is absolutely stunning. Given the weather conditions, hikers often make it close to the summit and have to turn back. If possible, leave some room for serendipity just in case you need to stay one more night for the bad weather to pass.

Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand : Doi Chiang Dao is Thailand’s third tallest peak, accessible via a fairly easy drive 1.5 hours north of Chiang Mai and surrounded by mountain after mountain in every direction. It’s a lovely hike worth including in your northern Thailand itinerary. Concrete information online was hard to find, so here’s my guide to hiking Doi Chiang Dao that has everything you need to know!

Kalaw, Myanmar : Many people visiting the popular Inle Lake choose to do a 3-day trek from Kalaw to get there. The trek takes you through valleys and small villages where you’ll stay each night, experiencing rural Myanmar life. The cost is cheap, the views are spectacular, and the trek is life-changing. There are no hot showers, no electricity, and no internet, just pure experiences with the nicest people on earth.

If You’re into Diving

southeast asia itinerary

Raja Ampat, Indonesia : The liveaboard diving trip I did in Raja Ampat was the hands down best diving trip I’ve ever done in my life, and this is coming from a girl who has done more than 150 dives! The area was largely uninhabited, where I spent afternoons pretending to be a mermaid, and the time spent under water was incredible, with tons of diversity and abundance of sea creatures. If you want to see Manta rays, turtles, Wobbegong sharks, Mobula rays, Spotted rays, Black-Tipped Reef sharks and Groupers, go to Raja Ampat. It’s worth going the distance for.

Sipadan Island, Borneo : It’s called one of the best diving sites in the world for a reason. I love that they limit the area to only 120 divers per day, which really helps sustain the ecosystem and keeps the site beautiful and safe for both the sea creatures and visitors. Make sure you book at least 2 weeks in advance.

Coron, Philippines : This was another liveaboard diving trip I did in the Philippines and enjoyed thoroughly. If you love wreck dives, Coron is the perfect choice for you. I remember clocking around 10 wreck dives in 6 days!

Tioman Island, Malaysia : So underrated, but so good! The island is dreamy and beautiful, yet you won’t have to share it with too many other people. My guess is that since the restaurant choices are very limited, alcohol isn’t widely available, and you can pretty much forget about getting on the Internet, it keeps the crowds away.

Komodo, Indonesia: If Raja Ampat and Sipadan take the #1 spot for the best diving I’ve done, then Komodo is a very, very close second. The soft corals are colorful and gorgeous and it’s full of sea turtles and the occasional Manta ray as well. Plus, most liveaboard trips combine an excursion to see the Komodo dragons as well.

If You’re Seeking Spirituality

southeast asia itinerary

Chaiya, Thailand : I did a 10-day silent meditation retreat at Wat Suan Mokkh, Chaiya district, located in Surat Thani province, close to the popular Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. The retreat takes place at a Buddhist monastery in the forest where the attendees don’t speak, use technology, or even read books. They just meditate. Held once a month (from the 1st – 10th), Wat Suan Mokkh is a beautiful place for those who are into spirituality and meditation.

New Life Foundation, Thailand : Though this is more of a place to live and volunteer for a month or longer, particularly for those who are stressed out and just need a little vacation from everyday life, they do hold retreats here from time to time. I attended a silent meditation retreat at the center and found it to be more comfortable and an overall easier experience than Wat Suan Mokkh, though the two are hard to compare as they’re so different. You can read more about New Life here .

Bali, Indonesia : If you’re looking for a yoga retreat, Bali is the epicenter of such things in Southeast Asia. Each month all over the island there are tons of retreats to choose from that focus on wholistic wellness, raw food diets, tantric yoga, and a wealth of other options. You can find them on this booking engine . If you want something a bit more relaxed and remote, look at the Nusa Islands , which are just a 30-minute ferry ride away from Bali.

Siquijor Island, Philippines : The mystical island is full of healers and witches. If you want this experience, the first thing to do is talk to a local if you can. See if you can get him or her to bring you to a legitimate shaman. I spoke with another traveler who did a smoke clearing ritual in the middle of the island with a folk healer, which he gave me a moderately excited review of. You can find them  here  if it interests you.

If You’re into Wildlife

southeast asia itinerary

Chiang Mai, Thailand : Elephants are one of the icons of Thailand. Many visitors are excited about interacting with them, but sadly, it has resulted in unethical businesses that involve torturing wild elephants to tame them for entertainment purposes. It’s our responsibility, as tourists, to make sure we’re putting our money into the hands of programs that make their lives better. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai is a highly reputable sanctuary for rehabilitated elephants. If you want to play (feed & bathe only, no riding) with elephants ethically, I recommend checking it out.

Sabah, Borneo:  Borneo is a great place for some adventure time deep in the jungle. Danum Valley Conservation Area is a beautiful place known for its beautiful primary forest and wildlife experience. For an experience that will remind you of the Amazon in Peru , check out Lower Kinabatangan River. Finally, Deramakot Forest Reserve is wonderful for many reasons – it is in accordance with good forestry practices, you will have the opportunities to see Pygmy elephants, bearded pigs and orangutans.

Komodo National Park, Indonesia : I had a close encounter with dragons in Komodo . They are the world’s largest, bloodthirsty lizards that roam freely on Rinca Island. This is also the only place on Earth that you can see them, so if you find yourself in Indonesia, be sure to check them out. Other than the Komodo Dragons, you may also chance upon the manta rays, sharks, turtles, and dolphins if you dive!

Bukit Lawang, Sumatra, Indonesia:  For an even more authentic orangutan experience, head to Sumatra. I just loved the little jungle town of Bukit Lawang, accessible via Medan, for hanging out, tubing down the river, and of course, jungle trekking to see the orangutans.

If You’re an Adrenaline Junkie

southeast asia itinerary

Cebu, Philippines : Many people rave about the Kawasan Falls tour, for a good reason! It’s a thrilling day trip around the area with canyoneering, cliff jumping, jungle trekking, and swimming on the docket. Your experience ends at Kawasan Falls, a picturesque waterfall that plummets into the turquoise lagoon below and has quickly become an instagram favorite. When you see it, you’ll understand why!

Vang Vieng, Laos : With strict rules and regulations imposed on the once deadly tubing that was notoriously popular among backpackers, the activity is now safer and just as fun as before. Other than tubing, kayaking and rock climbing are also popular in that area.

Gibbon Experience, Laos:  If trekking and ziplining through a lush jungle and staying in a treehouse is on your radar, check out the Gibbon Experience in Laos. Brochures can be found in almost all hostels, so you just have to ask! It’s also possible to book online .

Country Motorbiking in Vietnam or Laos:  If you are comfortable on a motorbike, take a road trip! You get all the freedom in the world, and it’s a great way to experience Vietnam from north to south  (or visa versa) or to explore Laos’ Bolaven Plateau, which is basically waterfall heaven.

If You’re into Off the Beaten Path Adventures

southeast asia itinerary

Myanmar:  Myanmar has only decided to open up its door to tourism a little 6 years ago. The locals are still getting used to seeing foreigners, and traveling around can be quite challenging and confusing. However, this is a paradise for those who are looking for a journey in Southeast Asia that’s off the beaten path. Just look further from the popular spots like Yangon and Inle Lake, talk to the locals (many young locals are receiving linguistic education from volunteers, and they are encouraged to practice their English with tourists! Just be friendly and respectful), who will be happy to show you around, rent a bike if you are comfortable on one and just ride away. Check this itinerary for the best spots .

Nong Khiaw, Laos : Though only a 4 hour bus ride away, Nong Khiaw is often hidden in the shadow of Luang Prabang’s popular waterfalls and backpacker area. It is a quiet, laid-back village with just a few guesthouses lying around. There are a few hills that make for amazing sunrise/sunset spots, and if you want to go even further, take a 2 hour walk to another village, Huay Bo, for a rustic, wholesome overnight stay with the locals. You’ll wake up to the sound of roosters, walk around a small village with kids running around, women making Laos liquor, and men working away in the fields.

Lampang, Thailand : Lampang is a northern province that is fairly popular among the locals, but not so much with the foreigners just yet. When I did a road trip there I found an emerald lake and had it to myself, until a small group of local cyclists came. I also hiked up to Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat, Thailand’s floating pagodas , and again, had the place mostly to myself except for a few local tourists. What’s keeping tourists away from these spots is the accessibility, but if you are considering renting a car, you will not have any problem getting there.

I gotta say it’s not easy putting this together, there’s just so much Southeast Asia has to offer! But I hope the itineraries are helpful to you, and if you need more information about each of the Southeast Asian countries, check out the destination page , where I’ve included the essential information, accommodation guides, transportation tips, top things to do, and all of the blog posts from each country. Enjoy the journey, and comment below if there’s any other places in Southeast Asia that you think I should visit next!

After spending 2 years in Southeast Asia, I've worked out an itinerary for 2 weeks, 1 month, or 3 months traveling in Southeast Asia for you, with many off the beaten path spots and insider tips. Food, culture, beach, mountains, cities, everything Southeast Asia has to offer is included in the itineraries. Check it out! #SoutheastAsia

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06/17/2018 at 9:05 pm

Great overview of traveling in Southeast Asia! I have a questions for you. If you could ONLY go back to one country, which one would you choose?

Kristin says

06/19/2018 at 9:31 pm

In Southeast Asia? I’d pick Indonesia because it’s so huge and diverse.

Renuka Walter says

06/18/2018 at 7:30 am

I’m amazed! I’m always looking for a trip somewhere in Europe, but I think I should think about planning a trip in Southeast Asia. Lovely pictures!

06/18/2018 at 10:06 am

You have clearly put a ton of effort into this post, very impressive. You are to be commended and I will use this for any travel I do one day in SE Asia, I promise. The beauty of it is in my case I might be restricted to a few countries and limited time so this will help me immensely in planning a custom itinerary. You seem to really have covered your bases, tapped into years of past posts, videos and personal experiences. A beautiful, organized collage. The only thing I could possibly add to this for those who, in addition to outdoor, solo adventure, like shopping binges along the way is that Kuala Lumpur is ranked 4th in the world by CNN as the best city to shop :). Three of the 10 biggest malls in the world are there, they say at least. I’ve heard Bangkok is pretty good too. I don’t know if this is really an addition to this, but a side note :). As another interesting side note: There is a ski “resort” inside a megamall in Penang, Malaysia called “Snowland” or “Snowland at Megamall Penang”. It looks like fun. According to one site I found, it is fun for those who have never done it before and drops 46 meters and has 6 snow machines which keep it at -5 degrees C in the indoor arena, so it feels real too. Have you ever heard of it? There’s also “SnowTown Saigon” but I think that is more for kids and there is a small ski slope for training (it is warmer though, 10-15C). I found these when wondering about snow/skiing in SE Asia and found “snow” here :). Keep up the fine work you are doing!

06/19/2018 at 9:30 pm

There’s a ski resort in Malaysia?! Wow! Never heard of it until now!

09/23/2018 at 1:39 am

I love this post! I’m going to be in Southeast Asia with my boyfriend for 1,5 months this November and December. Though we’d be considered typical backpackers, being young, on a budget and traveling with a backpack (obviously), we are less into partying and more into exploring. We thought about following route:

Week 1 Starting in Hanoi and experience it for a few days Heading over to Chiang Mai, exploring Northern Thailand (including Wat Chaloem, Doi Inthanon, maybe Pai and the Elephant Nature Park)

Week 2 Traveling to Cambodia and taking a few days to visit Angkor Wat and maybe Sihanoukville Flying to Bangkok

Week 3 Exploring Bangkok Doing some island hopping in the south of Thailand

Week 4 Heading over to Kuala Lumpur for a few days Flying to Singapore and do some sightseeing

Week 5 (and half of Week 6) Bali Chill-Out (maybe exploring Nusa Penida)

I am afraid this could be to strict and fast-paced, but we don’t want to miss out on something. Would you recommend skipping Taiwan, which we want to visit before starting in Hanoi, to have one extra week in SEA (maybe for a whole 2 weeks in Bali and another few days in Northern Thailand)? Or skipping Kuala Lumpur for a few days extra on the islands in South Thailand?

Thanks and keep up the good work!

09/23/2018 at 5:49 pm

I would recommend spending more time in fewer countries and then having looser plans while you’re there. I tend to burn out when I’m moving so fast.

Rickey Masters says

12/04/2018 at 11:52 am

where can you go as a person with a hip disability. I am unable to backpack but can ride motorbikes. I understand my limitations but am eager to make 1 trip to as many countries as I can. time is not a limitation and money would be subject to a medium budget. Thank you for your knowledge and help

12/04/2018 at 11:48 pm

Anyone here have suggestions? I can’t answer from personal experience but I’d love to find out as well!

07/10/2019 at 2:31 am

George Town, Penang Island ‘s d food capital of Malaysia ! Kuala Lumpur pales in comparison..

Carlos says

11/27/2019 at 6:20 pm

Great article, the only thing I miss… where to go if you love to party!

11/28/2019 at 8:06 am

Pretty much everywhere! I’m not a party person but the Thai islands, Cambodian coast, most of the major cities and tourist towns will all have party options.

Siim Kuusik says

01/17/2020 at 12:41 pm

As for me and my girlfriend Malaysia so far has been the best country in Southeast Asia so far, because they have 50% Malaysians 30% Chinese and 20% Indians living there, which means they have the BEST foods there in ONE country. And it is cheap!

Ava Brown says

02/09/2020 at 8:26 pm

Nice blog you have here with unique and different thoughts!

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woman travels along river in boat, enjoying picturesque karst mountains in Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam

Epic wildlife, classic culture, and dramatic wilderness that features the highest mountain range in the world or the pristine white-sand beaches of a tropical paradise are only a few of the ways you can experience Asia’s marvels with these nine Asia itineraries for first-timers.

Whether interested in visiting architectural marvels that span centuries, eager to view the season’s changing leaves, panoramic views over rice paddy terraces, or hidden temples and floating karsts, Asia brims with ancient culture, fascinating heritage, and ineffable beauty.

The best Asia itinerary offers timeless experiences in this compelling region of the world and depends on your interests and goals when exploring our sample itineraries for first-timers.

1. 9-Day Culinary and Cultural Heritage Tour of India

2. beauty of fall foliage: 16 day luxury tour of japan, 3. amazing vietnam vacation: karst islands to imperial citadels, 4. tantalizing thailand: bangkok, chiang mai, krabi tour, 5. thailand and cambodia essential experiences tour, 6. romance in tropical sri lanka and the maldives, 7. best of india and nepal vacation, 8. active 3-week adventure of cambodia, vietnam, laos, and thailand's cultural highlights, 9. rejuvenating tropical getaway vacation to bali, plan your asia itinerary for first-timers with a travel specialist.

Traditional Indian chicken tikka masala curry dish

Traditional chicken tikka masala curry dish

Length: 9 days

Places Visited: New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

India is a whirlwind of color and history, where culture builds on millennia of history experienced in the hidden temples, magnificent monuments, and aromatic spices you can find during your   9-Day Culinary and Cultural Heritage Tour of India .

From the vibrant streets of Delhi to the iconic bulbous domes of the Taj Mahal, the pink tint of the architecture in Jaipur to the symbolic shapes and hues of henna explored during a private class, India embraces its uniqueness by celebrating authentic tastes and magnificent traditions that welcome you as a familiar friend.

Learn more: India Tours & Vacations • India Travel Guide

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Heian Shrine garden in Kyoto, Japan

Heian Shrine garden in Kyoto, Japan

Length: 16 days

Places Visited: Osaka, Kanazawa, Naoshima, Kyoto, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Tokyo

This Beauty of Fall Foliage: 16 Day Luxury Tour of Japan highlights the scenery in the fall as it sings with color. The leaves change, turning the landscape into a painter’s palette surrounding traditional temples and decorating serene parks.

Unique architectural designs sprout from the foliage, bringing the past to life in the form of castles and monasteries, while modern architecture embraces artistic form celebrated on a remote island. Whether interested in viewing geishas walking across idyllic bridges or interested in the flavors of a traditional market, Japan’s beauty becomes accessible and immersive.

Learn more: Japan Tours & Vacations • Japan Travel Guide

A red junk boat sailing in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

Red junk boat sailing in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

Length: 8 days

Places Visited: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Mekong Delta

Vietnam can feel like a completely different world, where the landscape takes on majestic charms featured in the eight-day Amazing Vietnam Vacation: Karst Islands to Imperial Citadels . Cruise through the idyllic waters of Ha Long Bay, weaving between soaring granite towers, or wander beneath the crumbling grandeur of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty.

Connect with celebrated local chefs and taste their magnetic flavors or zigzag along Hai Van Pass for illustrious views as you soak in the spectacle of Vietnam's scenery, while experiencing welcoming traditions.

Learn more: Vietnam Tours & Vacations • Vietnam Travel Guide

Pagoda at Wat Arun in Bangkok Thailand

Pagoda at Wat Arun in Bangkok Thailand

Length: 11 days

Places Visited: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Town, Koh Phi Phi

This 11-day Tantalizing Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Tour offers a combination of rich culture and captivating scenery, turning Thailand into an unimaginable adventure.

Grand palaces, surprising canals, marvelous mountain panoramas, and distinctive local tribes provide a window into the memorable connections you can make as you explore forested trails or learn the art of traditional dishes.

With white-sand beaches, fabulous temple complexes, and crystal-clear water, Thailand is a treasure chest of endless opportunities.

Learn more: Thailand Tours & Vacations • Thailand Travel Guide

Head of Buddha statue in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat Temple, Ayutthaya, Thailand

Head of Buddha statue in the tree roots at Wat Mahathat Temple, Ayutthaya, Thailand

Length: 15 days

Places Visited: Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Siem Reap

Family-friendly and endlessly exciting, the 15-day Thailand and Cambodia Essential Experiences Tour can feel like an immersion into luxurious exploration. Sail along the Andaman Sea for fabulous views of tropical islands.

Embrace the spiritual ambiance of the Royal Palace complex in Bangkok, witness the masterful motifs and images of Buddha decorating the Angkor Temples, and visit a traditional floating village rising above the quiet waters of Tonle Sap Lake.

The combination of delicious cuisine, fascinating history, local customs, and graceful demonstrations of culture reveal excitement the entire family can enjoy.

Learn more: Thailand & Cambodia Tours • Cambodia Travel Guide

A couple swims in the ocean in the Maldives

Couple in the Maldives

Length: 14 days

Places Visited: Thirappane, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, Hatton, Galle, Bentota, Colombo, Laamu Atoll

Romance in Tropical Sri Lanka and The Maldives is an incredible immersion into distinct tropical paradises. Gorgeous beachside resorts, the marvels of mountainous vistas, and the allure of clear waters offer the perfect getaway to island bliss.

Visit cherished ancient temples, explore grand ancient ruins, indulge in aromatic spices, and embrace the elegance of a stunning seascape. Soak in the tranquil ambiance as you find passion and romance across the tropical islands of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Learn more: Maldives Vacations & Tour Packages • Maldives Travel Guide

Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal

Boudhanath Stupa in Kathmandu, Nepal

Length: 17 days

Places Visited: Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur, Sawarda, Kathmandu, Kurintar, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara

Heritage and history intertwine during this 17-day Best of India and Nepal Vacation . The wonder of the region spreads from the Taj Mahal to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas, the stunning remains of a Mughal empire to the staggering collection of Buddhist temples.

Find new ways to search for thrilling wildlife and its connection to local culture, indulge in the expansive views of the world’s tallest mountain range, and witness the combined beauty of golden desert and pink architectural walls as you uncover the collective charisma of India and Nepal.

Learn more: Nepal & India Tours • Nepal Tours & Vacations

Kuang Si waterfall in Luang Prabang, Laos

Kuang Si waterfall in Luang Prabang, Laos

Length: 21 days

Places Visited: Siem Reap, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay, Luang Prabang, Pakbeng, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Active 3-Week Adventure of Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand's Cultural Highlights provides visitors with ample opportunities to discover the limitless treasures of Southeast Asia. Capture the fascinating artwork and robust culinary traditions, the sensational scenery and inspiring history that will take you beyond Hanoi and Bangkok, Phnom Penh and Vientiane.

Weave between impressive karsts, glide down the Bon River, cycle to ancient temple complexes, sample the customary flavors of local cuisine, and enjoy the forested wilderness for a joyful perspective of the past, present, and future.

Learn more: Southeast Asia Tours & Vacations • Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Luxury tropical resort in Bali, Indonesia

Luxury tropical resort in Bali, Indonesia

Places Visited: Nusa Dua, Ubud, Gili Islands, Bali Island

Bali is a serene gateway, perfect for recharging your mind and spirit during this eight-day Rejuvenating Tropical Getaway Vacation to Bali . The island is often referred to as a paradise, with ample opportunities to slow down and enjoy the aromas of wild frangipani and listen to the sounds of crashing waves, or embrace the connection to the island’s vibrant Hindu traditions.

Explore fascinating temples, witness the famous scenery, and find revitalization in a mixture of calming spiritual waters and traditional island flavors. Snorkel, learn customary farming techniques, or bask in the tranquility of the mountains for the perfect tropical escape.

Learn more: Bali Vacations & Tours • Bali Travel Guide

The Munduk waterfall in Bali, Indonesia

The Munduk waterfall in Bali, Indonesia

Natural wonder, precious historical architecture, and participating in age-old traditions add to the allure of an Asia travel itinerary.

From trekking through the Himalayas in Nepal to viewing the Taj Mahal in India, wandering the bridges of Kyoto in Japan to viewing the temples of Angkor in Cambodia, each country displays its own treasured past and contemporary charm.

Find more ideas on how you can explore the scenery, embrace new customs, and experience the culture of a new country with more sample Asia tour packages & vacations . You can also discover new ideas on where to go, what to do, and more with our Asia travel guide .

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Your Southeast Asia itinerary: 8 ideas for exploring the region

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 30.03.2020

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You can’t expect to fit everything Southeast Asia has to offer into one trip – or two or three or four, to be fair – and we don’t suggest you try. So, to help you start planning, we’ve put together eight ideas for your Southeast Asia itinerary from The Rough Guide to Southeast Asia on a Budget .

3. Laos and Cambodia

4. bangkok and northern thailand, 5. thailand’s beaches and islands, 6. singapore and malaysia, 7. indonesia, 8. the philippines.

For those taking a big, extended trip around the continent you could join a few together, but remember that the distances you’ll be covering can be vast. Plus, there’s lots to discover off the beaten track.

For a complete guide to exploring the region and up-to-date recommendations of the best hotels, hostels, activities and more, buy the full guide here .

Start in colonial streets of Hanoi (1), the country’s historical, political and cultural capital. Go for a sail around the famed natural wonders of Ha Long Bay (2), before heading to the northern hills to the ethnic minority villages orbiting Sa Pa (3).

Take the train down to imperial architecture of Hué (4), make a day-trip to the DMZ , then move south to charming Hoi An (5). Nha Trang (6) is Vietnam 's pre-eminent beach party town, whereas Mui Ne (7) offers great water-sports and sandy coasts with a more laid-back vibe.

Da Lat (8) is your gateway to the Central Highlands , and from here you can strike southwest to reach bustling Ho Chi Minh City (9). Once you've explored the city, travel to the Mekong Delta (10) where you can visit one of the region's floating markets, before finishing your trip on the island of Phu Quoc (11), a restful place perfect for beach bums and divers.

Kick-off in Yangon (1) for street markets and the glorious Shwedagon Paya , then go to Mawlamyine (2), Myanmar 's third largest city. Catch a boat to Hpa-an (3) before visiting one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the country, Kyaiktiyo (4).

Kalaw (5) is a perfect base for treks to ethnic-minority villages, and traditional life at Inle Lake (6) shouldn’t be missed either. Watch the sunset over Mandalay (7), then head northeast to stroll the botanical gardens at Pyin Oo Lwin (8).

Take the train across the Goteik viaduct to Hsipaw (9), an increasingly popular trekking base and finish with a hot-air-balloon ride over the awe-inspiring temples of Bagan (10).

Begin with the unmissable two-day trip down the Mekong River from Houayxai to Luang Prabang (1), the city of golden spires. Then its off to the stunning natural playground of Vang Vieng (2), before venturing to the country’s quaint capital, Vientiane (3).

Enjoy the pretty French-colonial lanes of Savannakhet (4) and explore the Khmer ruins of Wat Phou near Champasak (5). Set course towards Si Phan Don (6) to chill out for a few days in one of the four thousand islands scattered across the Mekong River. Catch a mini-bus to Cambodia for river dolphin watching in Kratie (7).

An easy bus ride takes you from Phnom Penh (8) to Siem Reap , where the world-famous temples of Angkor (9) beg to be explored. But if you’re feeling a little travel-worn afterwards kick back on the beach resort and offshore islands of Sihanoukville (10) or laze riverside in relaxed Kampot (11).

After immersing yourself in Bangkok (1), Thailand ’s frenetic and thriving capital, chill-out among the rafthouses and waterfalls of Kanchanaburi (2).

Rent a bicycle to explore the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya (3) and then make for the elegant temple remains in Sukhothai (4). To break free of the tourist route head to isolated Umphang (5), where the surrounding mountains are perfect for trekking.

Chaing Mai (6) is always a backpacking favourite, but an amble through the arty night markets and excellent live-music bars of Pai (7) shouldn’t be missed either.

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Cityscape of Edinburgh Arthur's Seat © S-F/Shutterstock

Commence among the old-world charms of Thailand 's Phetchaburi (1), then take a trip to the paradisiacal islands of Ko Tao (2) and Ko Pha Ngan (3) for raging moon parties or a detox.

Trek through the jungle in Khao Sok National Park (4) ­– one of the most bio-diverse places on the planet – and as you move further south, consider a stop in the slightly ugly tourist village of Ko Phi Phi (5) for undeniably fun all-night parties, snorkelling and diving.

Continue south to the relaxed island getaway of Ko Lanta (6), before winding this itinerary down in the pockets of paradise still remaining in Ko Lipe (7) and the stunning Ko Tarutai National Marine Park nearby.

Singapore (1) is an easy introduction to Southeast Asia with its array of tourist-friendly pleasures. But move on to Melaka (2) for a fascinating mix of cultures and an ideal first stop in Malaysia .

Kuala Lumpur (3) is a must, as is former-colonial George Town (4), with its thriving food and arts scenes. Next, make some time to relax on the beaches of the Perhentian Islands (5) before heading to the rainforests of Taman Negara National Park (6), before catching a ride on the jungle railway to Kota Bharu .

Attractive Kuching (7) is an ideal base for visits to the Iban longhouses , and a journey along the 560km Batang Rajang (8) river into the heart of Sarawak is unforgettable.

Nature and adventure buffs alike will love Gunung Mulu National Park (9), Kinabalu National Park (10) and the wildlife outside of Sandakan (11). Finish this itinerary among the teeming marine life of Pulau Sipadan (12), one of the top dive sites in the world.

There’s plenty to discover by starting in Sumatra ’s Bukit Lawang and Danau Toba (1), the famous orang-utan centre, soaring volcanoes and island retreats among them.

Take time to explore Indonesia ’s capital, Jakarta (2), before moving on to Java cultural heart: Yogyakarta (3), the best base for the temples of Borobudur and Prambanan . Take a pre-dawn hike up to the crater rim of still-smoking Gunung Bromo (4), adventure the many wonders of Hindu Bali and hop over the Lombok (6) and the Gili Islands for adventures in paradise.

Enjoy close encouters with Komodo dragons in Komodo and Rinca (7) before heading to the mountainous landscapes of fertile Flores (8). Finish up on Sulawesi , immersed in the flamboyant festivals and fascinating culture of Tanah Toraja (9).

Start by soaking up the compelling energy of Manila (1), a convenient gateway to some of the country’s more inaccessible areas.

Check out the shipwrecks and prehistoric landscapes of Palawan (2), before you pass through Cebu city (3) on your way to Camiguin (4), a small volcanic island home to a bohemian arts scene and some amazing adventure activities.

Surfers flock to the acclaimed reef breaks of Siargao (5), while the captivating sunsets and limited electricity at both Malapascua and Bantayan (6) typifies island living at its best.

Boracay (7) also shouldn’t be missed, home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and nightlife rivalling Manila . Conclude this itinerary in the cool mountain villages of the Igorot tribes in the Cordillera (8), nestled among jaw-dropping rice-terrace scenery.

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3 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary: Best Routes + Planning Tips (For 2024)

Southeast Asia is without a doubt one of the most fascinating and diverse regions in the world.

With its stunning beaches, mouthwatering food, interesting culture and history, and incredible wildlife, it's no wonder that many travelers, including myself, become absolutely obsessed after visiting Southeast Asia for the first time.

If you're creating your travel plan and aiming to allocate three weeks to Southeast Asia, you'll have plenty of time to visit some of the region's most renowned countries, such as Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.

There's certainly no one-size-fits-all itinerary as Southeast Asia is big and everyone does it a little differently, but trust me, it always turns out amazing in the end, even with little to no plan!

I understand that planning a trip can feel overwhelming, not knowing where to start or which places to visit. But don't worry, after traveling across many countries in Southeast Asia as a solo female traveler, with friends as well as as a couple, I've put together six different itineraries, which are tailored to different types of travelers.

I'm sure that one of them will be just right for you. So, let's get started and make your trip unforgettable!

Best countries and places in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is a dream destination with 11 amazing countries and over 25,000 stunning islands. While I can't cover everything in this guide, let me focus on my favorite countries and itineraries.

Thailand  awaits you with its breathtaking beaches and picturesque islands in the south. Round this off with amazing food, beautiful Buddhist temples in it's capital city and natural beauty and some of the best night markets in Thailand's northern region. Oh an did I mention the adorable elephants you can volunteer with?

History buffs and culture lovers will fall in love with  Cambodia , especially for its incredible ancient temples around Siem Reap like Angkor Wat.

If you're up for the ultimate backpacking adventure,  Vietnam  is the place to be. With its affordable prices, stunning nature, iconic Halong Bay, and delicious food, it's not wonder its one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia.

Malaysia  offers the perfect mix of city life, breathtaking nature, and mouthwatering food. From the bustling capital Kuala Lumpur to the stunning beaches in Langkawi, it fits in every itinerary. Plus KL is a real hub with direct flights to many destinations around Southeast Asia.

Don't forget to include  Singapore  in your itinerary for a fantastic city break! Having lived and studied in Singapore for a few months has truly won be over to be a lifelong fan of this city. With its modern and futuristic architecture, fun theme parks, and incredible hawker stall food, it's a must-visit destination.

The  Philippines  is the ideal spot for all beach lovers. With its pristine, crystal-clear waters, powdery white shorelines, and serene island atmosphere, it's an ideal destination for relaxation, surfing and adventure.

Last but not least,  Indonesia  is a true highlight in Southeast Asia. Indulge in luxury in Bali, learn to surf in Lombok, or visit the Komodo Dragons in Flores. Indonesia is the perfect all-rounder, plus it still has plenty of undiscovered destinations that are well worth visiting.

1. Three week Southeast Asia itinerary for first-timers: Thailand – Cambodia – Vietnam

If you're planning to travel around Southeast Asia for the first time, one of the most popular routes among travelers is Thailand – Cambodia – Vietnam.

Visiting those three countries offers a perfect mix of everything, from beautiful beaches, floating marketing and wildlife in Thailand to ancient ruins in Cambodia and stunning natural beauty and bustling cities in Vietnam.

Day 1-9: Thailand

3 week southeast asia itinerary - thailand

Bangkok: 2-3 nights

Thailand is often considered the gateway to Southeast Asia, with Bangkok's International Airport making it super accessible from almost anywhere in the world.

Plus, Thailand has a fantastic infrastructure for tourists, making it easy to get around.

Your journey will likely begin in Bangkok, the busy capital city known for its amazing street food and magnificent temples. Take a few days to explore the city and visit must-see sights like the Grand Palace and the various floating markets and night markets. Khao San Road should be on your list to visit if you're backpacking and looking for the best parties in town.

Chiang Mai: 3 nights

After Bangkok, take a short 1-hours flight to get to Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, famous for its breathtaking nature and impressive temples. You can go on a trekking tour in the jungle, visit the ethical Elephant Nature Park, or simply unwind in one of the many spas in the Old City.

As the sun sets, browse some of the night markets, Tha Pae Sunday Walking Street is my most favourite and the best one in the entire city in my eyes. And don't miss the chance to indulge in some delicious northern Thai dishes – they're absolutely mouthwatering!

From Chiang Mai, you can take plenty of great day trips or even spend a night in some of the nearby towns like Pai, which is loved for trekking or Chiang Rai , where you'll find the famous white temple.

Southern Thailand Islands: 3-4 nights

Next up, it's time for some island hopping! Koh Phangan is a popular choice for its stunning beaches and crazy nightlife build around the Full Moon Party.

However, if you're looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to Koh Lanta or Koh Samui . Both islands are super laid back with pristine beaches and incredible beachfront hotels to enjoy.

As another alternative, consider staying in Phuket , a vibrant island paradise in the Andaman Sea known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse range of activities. Phuket is very family-friendly also also got quieter parts with adult-only hotels, perfect for couples and honeymooners.

If you're curious to learn more about Thailand, including the best places to stay and things to do, feel free to check out my other  guides !

Day 10-13: Cambodia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - cambodia

From Thailand, take either a short flight or an overnight bus to Siem Reap in Cambodia.

The town of Siem Reap is the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, which is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spend at least two days exploring all the different temples, and don't forget to catch the sunrise or sunset at Angkor Wat. Watching the sunrise behind this beautiful temple is probably my personal highlight of this entire itinerary!

After temple hopping, head to the capital city, Phnom Penh, for a taste of urban Cambodian life. Visit the Royal Palace, Genocide Museum, and the Killing Fields to learn more about the country's tragic history and culture, it's eye-opening!

Day 14-21: Vietnam

3 week southeast asia itinerary - vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City: 2-3 nights

Last but not least, it's time for some adventure in Vietnam! Start in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) and explore the bustling city before heading to the stunning Mekong Delta for a boat tour.

Hoi An: 3 nights

Next, make your way up to Hoi An, a charming ancient town filled with lanterns, street food, and tailors. Get some custom-made clothes or try the city's signature dish, Cao Lau.

Halong Bay + Hanoi: 4 nights

End your perfect Southeast Asia itinerary in the gorgeous Halong Bay, famous for its thousands of limestone islands and emerald waters. Spend a night on one of the amazing cruise ships, go kayaking or swimming, and soak in the stunning scenery.

Spend your final days exploring the charming alleys and busy streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter. Before departing from Hanoi's International Airport, I suggest you join a food tour, as Hanoi is celebrated as Vietnam's culinary epicenter.

2. Three week Southeast Asia itinerary for couples: Singapore – Indonesia

If you're a couple or on a honeymooner or simply looking for a mix of sightseeing and relaxation, let me suggest two amazing destinations.

For luxurious hotels, you can't go wrong with Singapore. And for fantastic romantic islands, flower baths, and floating breakfasts, Indonesia is the place to be!

Day 1-4: Singapore

3 week southeast asia itinerary - singapore

Singapore is a great way to start off your Southeast Asia trip. As soon as you arrive, you'll notice that Singapore has a very unique vibe. With its modern cityscape, fancy shopping malls, and the world's best airport , it's unlike any other city in Southeast Asia.

During your stay, make sure to spend a day on Sentosa Island. It's home to Universal Studios and some of the most beautiful beaches in Singapore.

While you're here, you also need to visit the Gardens by the Bay, a mesmerizing horticultural wonder in Singapore. It features stunning Supertree Grove structures and lush botanical gardens, and every night there is a cool light show that you shouldn't miss.

For an iconic and unforgettable experience, I highly suggest a stay at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, a boat-shaped architectural marvel that dominates the Singapore skyline. It has an incredible infinity pool on top , which you've probably already seen in pictures. I can confirm, it's even more amazing in person!

Check out my other Singapore  guides  as well to discover more tips and tricks for your trip.

Day 5-21: Indonesia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - indonesia

Canggu: 3 nights

From Singapore, fly to Bali, Indonesia's most popular holiday destination. It's known for its beautiful beach clubs, restaurants, and luxurious resorts, making it the perfect spot for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

First, head to Canggu , the ideal area to fully dive into Bali's incredible food scene (yes, Bali offers lots of vegetarian and vegan options, probably more than any other country in Southeast Asia) and enjoy some of the best beach clubs or pamper yourself at the many spas.

Canggu is one of my personal favorite spots in Bali, however, it is a lot more busy now. While it does have many luxury villas, it doesn't have such a large variety of luxury hotels.

As an alternative, I recommend choosing a luxury hotel in Uluwatu , there are some stunning properties with breathtaking ocean views from the cliffs, world-class amenities, and a secluded and private stay.

Ubud: 3 nights

Make sure to spend a few days in Ubud too, known as the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali.

You can explore temples, enjoy traditional dance performances, yoga classes, yummy cafes and immerse yourself in the stunning surrounding rice terraces and visit nearby Ubud waterfalls .

Lombok: 4-5 nights

Next, hop over to Lombok (you can fly or take a boat trip), Bali's laid-back and less touristy neighbor.

It boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Indonesia, perf ect for a romantic trip among unspoiled natural beauty, stunning beaches and challenging hiking opportunities, such as the Mount Rinjani trek. Plus, it's an excellent place for couples who love surfing!

Gili Islands: 2-3 nights

From northern Lombok, you can easily hop over to the Gili Islands , if you're looking for an island experience. Gili Air should definitely be your top pick for couples and honeymooners . There are a handful of very affordable luxury accommodations and you can have a romantic dinner right on the beach with your feet in the sand.

Komodo Islands: 3 nights

To wrap up your Indonesia trip, head to Komodo National Park , where you can get up close with the famous Komodo Dragons. This part of your trip will be driven by more adventure activities.

It's also a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving, with crystal-clear waters and a rich marine life. On the nearby island of Flores, you'll find Labuan Bajo, the gateway town to the Komodo islands with plenty of surf shops and smaller, romantic boutique hotels and resorts.

Indonesia is definitely one of the most diverse countries and fits into loads of different itineraries. If you want to find out more about this amazing country, take a look at my other articles with plenty of  travel tips and tricks .

3. Three week Southeast Asia itinerary for backpackers: Vietnam – Laos – Cambodia

If you're a backpacker or a budget traveler looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Southeast Asia, I've got the ultimate itinerary for you. Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia are absolute must-visits that are not only super affordable but also offer incredible experiences.

Day 1-12: Vietnam

3 week southeast asia itinerary - vietnam

Begin your 3 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary in the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, which is full of lively mark ets, fascinating museums, and delicious street food.

You definitely have to visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, then make your way to the Ben Thanh Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to tasty local dishes.

Dalat & Nha Trang: 2-4 nights

You can fly to Dalat, but the cheaper option is to take an overnight bus that will leave just before midnight and get you into Dalat around 7 am. If you're a backpacker, this will also save you one night of accommodation.

Dalat, a mountain town is a favorite among trekkers and the ideal spot to explore Vietnam's mountain ranges, go trekking, explore waterfalls, and simply enjoy nature.

From Dalat, head towards the ocean to Nha Trang , a town celebrated for its pristine beaches, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. You can also decide on either Dalat or Nha Trang, depending on whether trekking or beach time is more your jam and stay in either for a few nights.

I recommend flying to Hoi An, it's 1 hour by plane vs a 15-hour bus journey, which may be cheap but in my eyes not worth it.

Spend the following day wandering the magical ancient town of Hoi An, perfect for budget travelers.

You'll absolutely love the incredibly affordable food and accommodation options in Hoi An . The town itself is the most beautiful in Vietnam with its night markets and mix of Japanese and colonial architecture.

Hanoi & Halong Bay: 3-4 nights

Wrap up your Vietnam journey in Hanoi, the bustling capital city. The Old Quarter and Train Street in Hanoi are two of my favorite stops that you also shouldn't miss.

But of course, from Hanoi, you should also make your way to embark on one of the famous Ha Long Bay cruises and discover the famous Cat Ba Island. There are plenty of full-day trips or overnight package tours you can book. If you have the time and money, an overnight stay on a sailboat is something you'll be remembering for the rest of your life.

To learn more about Vietnam, check out my other  guides  for all the must-see places and travel tips.

Day 13-17: Laos

3 week southeast asia itinerary - laos

Luang Prabang: 2 nights

Hop on a 24-hour bus (yes, that long!) in Hanoi or take a short flight, which is my preferred option as you can often find a cheap flight, to the laid-back country of Laos.

The first stop is Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that impresses with its ancient temples, markets, and the fa mous Kuang Si Waterfall, with its turquoise cascading tiers and lush jungle surroundings.

Vang Vieng: 2 nights

Next up, head to Vang Vieng, a backpacker's paradise filled with thrilling activities like tubing and rock climbing. But the coolest thing to do here? Rent a dune buggy and explore the countryside, discovering hidden lagoons and viewpoints along the way.

Optional: 1 night in Vientiane

If you're short on time, skip Vientiane! But if you like, you can wrap up your Laos adventure in the capital city of Vientiane.

As a less crowded Southeast Asia city, it's got some charming parts with a unique blend of French colonial architecture, traditional temples, and some nice restaurants, however, overall I think there are slightly better cities in this itinerary.

Day 18-21: Cambodia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - cambodia

Siem Reap: 3 nights

On this epic backpacking trip, Cambodia is your final stop. I recommend flying into Siam Reap, as it's a much quicker journey. Visiting Angkor Wat will definitely be your absolute highlight.

Take a few days to explore this ancient temple complex, one of the most impressive in the world. Trust me, waking up early to catch the sunrise behind this majestic temple is totally worth it!

Optional: 2 nights in Phnom Penh

Consider adding two nights in Phnom Penh as an option for your itinerary.

Phnom Penh, the capital city, has had a difficult past, but now it's a great place to dive into Cambodia's food scene and the popular night markets.

While you're here, you have to visit the Killing Fields and the Genocide Museum. I know it might not be for everyone, but it really gives you a better understanding of Cambodia's tragic history.

4. Three week Southeast Asia itinerary for families: Thailand – Malaysia – Singapore

Southeast Asia also offers a fantastic family-friendly itinerary, featuring a mix of experiences, from exciting watersports on breathtaking beaches to close encounters with wildlife and a visit to one of the best theme parks in Southeast Asia, that will surely captivate the kids.

Day 1-10: Thailand

3 week southeast asia itinerary - thailand maya bay

Phuket: 4 nights

Thailand is the perfect vacation spot for families. For the first 10 days, you'll explore different islands that are conveniently located close to each other. 

Start off in Phuket, where you can relax on the beach and take a day trip to Phi Phi Islands for some awesome snorkeling and island exploration. This is a great day trip for families with older children and may not be suitable for families with very young children.

Krabi or Koh Lanta: 3 nights

Then, head over to Krabi to visit the famous Railay Beach, try a variety of watersports and enjoy rock climbing or a sunset boat ride along the coast. 

Koh Lanta is another must-visit island known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Here, the whole family can take a family-friendly cooking class or visit the Lanta Animal Welfare Center to play with rescued dogs and cats. 

I would choose between Krabi and Koh Lanta. Krabi is great for families with older kids as it's got some great adventure activities, whereas Koh Lanta is a bit more laid back and has some good beachfront resorts that cater to families with younger children.

Koh Lipe or Koh Samui: 3 nights

Finally, spend a few days on the island of Koh Lipe, a hidden gem with stunning beaches and plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and boat trips.

It's essential to be aware that Koh Lipe is relatively remote, and there may be limited facilities and activities specifically designed for younger children. If you're a family with young kids, research and plan accordingly and ensure the accommodations you book are child-friendly.

On the other side of Thailand, Koh Samui is a highly family-friendly island nestled in the Gulf of Thailand.

This island is particularly convenient for families due to its airport, which simplifies the journey, especially when traveling with children, eliminating the need for a lengthy mainland journey and boat trip.

Day 11-17: Malaysia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - malaysia

Langkawi or Penang: 3-4 nights

From Koh Lipe, it's super easy to take a ferry to Langkawi in Malaysia. This island is famous for its duty-free shops and beautiful beaches, perfect for a few days of relaxation. 

Alternatively, head to Penang, a cultural and foodie paradise. Penang was actually one of my first trips within Southeast Asia when I was living in Singapore.

Take your family on a street art tour or try delicious local dishes at the night markets. Don't miss the Escape Adventureplay Theme Park, which offers excitement for kids and adults alike! 

Kuala Lumpur: 2-3 nights

Your last stop in Malaysia will be Kuala Lumpur, the capital city.

Visit the iconic Petronas Towers, go shopping in one of the many shopping centers, and take a day trip to the famous Batu Caves.

Day 18-21: Singapore

3 week southeast asia itinerary - singapore

Singapore may be different from Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, but it's a fantastic destination for a family trip, being extremely clean and safe.

As a family, I recommend staying on Sentosa Island or along Orchard Road. Also, read my full Singapore accommodation guide with all areas.

Start off by visiting Universal Studios Singapore, one of the best theme parks in the region. Then, explore Gardens by The Bay and take all the pictures at the iconic Supertree Grove.

Check out the interactive ArtScience Museum or head to Sentosa Island for some beach time and water sports.

On your last day, make sure to visit the world-famous Singapore Zoo. Get up close and personal with amazing animals like elephants, giraffes, and pandas. The best thing about the zoo is that you can join a night safari to see plenty of nocturnal animals, definitely something I highly recommend!

Singapore might be just a city, but there is so much to do, you could fill weeks of exploration, but a few days is certainly enough to have a great time.

5. Three week Southeast Asia itinerary for adventurers: Indonesia – Malaysia

If you're up for an adventurous journey and looking to explore beyond the usual tourist path, then Indonesia and Malaysia are the perfect destinations for you.

And no, I'm not talking about well-traveled paths in Bali and Langkawi. This itinerary is going to be a little different, but trust me, it'll be worth it!

It's also a great itinerary if you've traveled Southeast Asia extensively and looking for some new places to discover.

Day 1-14: Indonesia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - indonesia nature

Jakarta: 2-3 nights

Let's start off in the chaotic city of Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Here, you can visit the National Monument, modern shopping centers and dive int o the amazing food scene of the country.

Borobudur & Yogyakarta : 4-5 nights

Next, head to Yogyakarta and spend a few days exploring the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

From Yogyakarta, you can also take trips to Mount Bromo and Volcano Ijen.

Mount Ijen is an absolute must-see on this trip. It's a volcano with a sulfur mine in its crater, and you can actually climb down into the crater. You'll witness blue flames shooting out of the ground and observe the locals mining sulfur.

Sumatra: 7-8 nights

Take a flight to Sumatra and discover some of Indonesia's most incredible wildlife.

You can go scuba diving or snorkeling to discover breathtaking marine life and hang out on stunning beaches. It's also one of the few places in the world where you can go jungle trekking to see orangutans in the wild. And Sumatra also boasts some of the best surf spots in Indonesia.

Sumatra's top spots include Bukit Lawang for orangutan treks, the scenic beauty of Lake Toba, the renowned rendang cuisine in Padang, and the surfers' paradise of the Mentawai Islands, showcasing the best of Indonesia's nature and culture.

Day 15-21: Malaysia

3 week southeast asia itinerary - malaysia kuala lumpur

Borneo: 3 nights

From Sumatra, catching a flight to Kota Kinabalu on Malaysian Borneo is a breeze.

Borneo is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and is an absolute must-visit for any adventurer. Embark on a multi-day trek through the jungle, spot wild orangutans, and experience life in an indigenous village.

You can also visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and take a boat ride along the Kinabatangan River to witness even more wildlife. Something most visitors to Southeast Asia do not get to see, this is very special!

Pulau Mabul: 3 nights

Wrap up your Malaysian adventure with a visit to Pulau Mabul, located right next to Borneo. This island is famous for its world-class scuba diving resorts and snorkeling spots.

If you're not scuba certified, don't worry! All the resorts and dive schools here offer beginner courses too.

Head back to Borneo and catch a flight to Kuala Lumpur. If you have an extra night or two and haven't been to KL before, I recommend you explore the city, visit the iconic Petronas Towers, and end your trip on a high note in one of the awesome rooftop bars.

This itinerary may not be your typical Southeast Asia trip, but I promise it will give you a unique and unforgettable experience filled with all kinds of different adventures.

6. Three week Southeast Asia for beach lovers: Singapore – Philippines

If you're looking for a relaxing getaway with laid-back island vibes and stunning beaches, my Singapore-Philippines itinerary is just what you need.

Start your itinerary in the modern city of Singapore, explore the city, theme parks, rooftop bars and the beautiful city beaches. Then, hop over to the Philippines for a tropical paradise experience. From Singapore to Manila, the flight will take just about 4 hours.

Day 1-5: Singapore

3 week southeast asia itinerary - singapore merlion park

Starting your journey in Singapore is absolutely perfect for slowly getting accustomed to Southeast Asia. The city is an amazing blend of Asian and Western influences and is incredibly modern, clean and safe.

Sentosa Island is the ultimate paradise for beach lovers. With its stunning Siloso Beach and Tanjong Beach, you'll be in beach heaven. Plus, you can try plenty of different water sports like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and jet-skiing here.

Not only that, but the island also has a wide range of luxurious beach resorts and is home to Universal Studios Singapore, where the whole family can have a blast!

Day 6-21: Philippines

3 week southeast asia itinerary - philippines

Palawan & El Nido or Coron: 3-5 nights

Next up, let's head over to the beautiful Philippines, where you can spend your days hopping between the most stunning islands in all of Southeast Asia.

Start off in Palawan, known for its crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches. You definitely don't want to miss El Nido and Coron , where you can go on island-hopping day trips to discover hidden lagoons and snorkel with colorful marine life.

Boracay: 3 nights

Then, make your way to Boracay, famous for its white sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Try yourself on water activities like parasailing and jet-skiing or simply relax on the beach with a refreshing coconut in hand.

Boracay is the perfect island to enjoy some laid-back days in one of its fantastic resorts . B oracay also has a range of beachfront bars and nightclubs, making it a popular destination for anyone seeking an after-dark scene.

Bohol or Siquijor: 3-4 nights

Siquijor Island is a must-visit for all beach lovers, with its stunning coastlines and secluded coves.

And of course, we can't forget about the world-famous island of Bohol. Here you will explore the famous Chocolate Hills and have a chance to see some of the smallest primates in the world, the tarsier!

I would choose just one destination, either Bohol or Siquijor. Bohol is known for its iconic Chocolate Hills and stunning beaches on Panglao Island (I recommend staying on Panglao as well instead of the mainland), while Siquijor offers a more tranquil and mystical island experience with its enchanting forests and pristine beaches.

Siargao: 3-4 nights

Finally, end your trip on Siargao, known as the surfing capital of the Philippines. Even if you're not into surfing, this island has plenty to offer with its breathtaking beaches, lagoons, and waterfalls.

This itinerary is perfect for beach lovers like myself who want a mix of relaxation and activities. And if you want to know more about the Philippines islands, then take a look at my other  travel guides .

Southeast Asia Pre-Travel Tips

Before embarking on your Southeast Asia adventure, here are some tips to help you plan and prepare for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Research Visa Requirements

Make sure to research the visa requirements for each country you plan on visiting in Southeast Asia. Some countries offer visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival options, while others may require you to obtain a tourist visa in advance. It's important to know the requirements and timelines to avoid any last-minute issues.

Pack Accordingly

Southeast Asia is known for its hot and humid weather, so pack light, breathable clothing that will keep you comfortable throughout your trip. Be sure to also pack appropriate attire if you plan on visiting religious sites or temples, as modest dress may be required.

Get Vaccinated

Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Southeast Asia, and make sure to get them in advance of your trip. It's also a good idea to bring any necessary medication or supplements with you, as it may be harder to find them. The same goes for women's products when you visit Southeast Asia.

Plan Your Budget

Southeast Asia is generally a budget-friendly destination, but it's still important to plan and budget accordingly. Research the average costs of accommodations, transportation, food, and activities in each country you plan on visiting to create a realistic budget for your trip.

Be Aware of Cultural Differences

Each country in Southeast Asia has its own unique culture and customs. It's important to be respectful and aware of these differences while traveling to avoid any unintentional offense. Researching and understanding the local customs, traditions, and etiquette can also enhance your overall experience. 

Be Aware of the seasons

Southeast Asia experiences both a wet and dry season, which is different across the coastal areas and countries throughout. Be sure to research the weather patterns of each country you plan on visiting. This will help you pack accordingly and avoid any potential disruptions due to heavy rain or storms, which can also bring blackouts and travel delays.

3 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary – Final Words

Southeast Asia is incredibly diverse, offering the perfect itinerary for everyone. Whether you're a budget backpacker or enjoying a luxurious family or couples vacation, there are countless islands and countries with unique experiences.

I absolutely love Southeast Asia! I've spent many months exploring all these countries, and every time I go back, I discover new places and create new memories.  But hey, even three weeks in Southeast Asia is more than enough to tick off some of the main highlights, from paradise beaches to mountain adventures, rich history and some of the best night markets!

I really hope this Southeast Asia vacation itinerary will inspire you, so you can plan and have an amazing trip exploring South East Asia.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

About the Author: Breathing Travel

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The Lost Passport

Asia » Two Week Southeast Asia Itinerary (5 Routes to Try Now!)

Two Week Southeast Asia Itinerary (5 Routes to Try Now!)

best asia trip itinerary

What's In This Guide?

Two week southeast asia itinerary – 5 easy routes.

Southeast Asia is incredibly diverse in culture, food, language, landscapes, and activities. One day you can shower under a waterfall and explore ancient temples, the next day you can scuba dive the world’s best reefs then chill at a beach bar.

The problem is that too many people try to fit too much in too little time.

Rule #1: Don’t cram . It’s impossible to fit everything in a 2 week Southeast Asia itinerary.

If you try to see every country in two weeks, you will spend more time on a plane or a train than having meaningful experiences.

Try to narrow down what you want to see, and where you want to go. A good starting point is to consider what type of experience you want.

Here I’ve suggested five easy options for a 2 week Southeast Asia itinerary. These itineraries ensure you spend more of your time exploring Southeast Asia than being in transit.

If you’re still unsure how to plan your trip, feel free to send me a travel planning inquiry. Together, we will develop a unique travel itinerary that gives you the experiences you are after with the knowledge I have in my head. My goal is that you get the most epic trip possible.

Option 1: The Thai Islands

If you want to spend two weeks in Southeast Asia kicking back on the beach, exploring coral reefs and having the occasional party, then this Thai island itinerary is the one for you.

You can quite easily explore four to five islands in two weeks. On the flipside, you might just decide to chill out on the one island the whole time. There’s no right answer, it depends on how you feel!

best asia trip itinerary

  • Koh Phangan – 3 days

Start with a bus trip from Bangkok down to Suratthani, followed by a ferry across to Koh Phangan. Tear up the Full Moon Party by dancing on the beach all night and enjoy some of those cheap buckets. However, don’t think that Koh Phangan is all a party. Hire a motorbike and explore the more remote beaches around the island like Bottle Beach and Thong Yai Pan Nai beach on the secluded east coast.

  • Koh Tao – 3 days

After 3 days on Koh Phangan catch a ferry across to Koh Tao. If you want to get your scuba diving certificate, this is the place to do it. Koh Tao has the cheapest scuba diving courses I’ve found in Southeast Asia. Spend three days diving the island and exploring beaches by motorbike.

  • Koh Lanta – 4 Days

Next hop across to the west coast of Thailand called the Andaman Sea. Here you can visit the beautiful island of Koh Lanta . One of my favorite scuba diving spots in the world is about 1 hr off Koh Lanta, it’s called Koh Haa. Back on the island, there are awesome beaches along the west coast with epic sunset views like Ao Nui Beach and Bamboo Bay. At night you can admire the phosphorescent algae in the water too. I’d suggest spending 4 days on Koh Lanta.

  • Koh Lipe – 4 days

Finally, hop on a speedboat transfer from Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe. This tiny island is so far south that on a clear day you can see Langkawi in Malaysia. Koh Lipe has some of Thailand’s most amazing beaches. Check out Sunrise Beach for awesome sunrises, and Sunset beach for epic sunsets. You can snorkel the vibrant coral reefs by just swimming out from the shore. Spend 4 days on Koh Lipe before heading back up north to Bangkok.

Option 2: Motorbike Northern Vietnam

Though it may not be for everyone, motorbiking the north of Vietnam is incredible. The north of Vietnam is one of the most diverse regions of Southeast Asia, and for that reason, you could spend an entire two-week Southeast Asia itinerary exploring just this region. The opportunities within 300km from Hanoi are endless.

I’ve partnered up with an awesome motorbike rental shop in Vietnam. If you want to experience this incredible trip, send me an inquiry for some super reliable motorbike rentals.

Ultimate Vietnam Motorbike Itinerary

  • Hanoi – 3 days

Start with 3 days in Hanoi while you search for a motorbike to rent for the next two weeks. Spend a day exploring the narrow alleyways and French bakeries in the Old Quarter by Hoan Kiem Lake. Keep an eye out for the local coffee shop where you can enjoy a cup of coffee Vietnam style, dripped over ice and sweetened condensed milk. The food in Hanoi is also incredible, you have to try the Pho Soup in the early morning from a street vendor.

  • Halong Bay and Cat Ba Island – 3 days

Ride to the east of Hanoi for a few hours where you will find the famous Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. There are over 1,600 karst limestone mountains scattered throughout the ocean here. One of the best ways to see Halong Bay is not rushing it with a day trip from Hanoi, but to stay one or two nights at Cat Ba Island. You can take a motorbike across to the island on the vehicle ferry from Haiphong.

  • Ban Gioc Waterfall – 2 days

After exploring the islands in Halong Bay, continue north back on the mainland to the Ban Gioc Waterfall . This is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Southeast Asia. It is located in the far north of Vietnam in the Cao Bang Province, on the Vietnam-China border. It’s a bit out of the way, so many travelers don’t make it this far north. If you head up this way, be sure to check out a local homestay in Cao Bang, it’s a great way to actually live the village life with a Vietnamese family.

  • Ha Giang – 5 days

Ha Giang seems like the final frontier of northern Vietnam. Narrow barrierless roads wind their way along the steep mountain passes offering epic views for hours on end. From up here, you are effectively staring out across to the mountains of Guilin, the southern province of China. The most popular route is known as the Ma Pei Leng Pass running via Meo Vac and Dong Van, then there are a handful of smaller villages in between where you can repair a motorbike or get a bowl of Pho soup.

Although you will only spend one night at a time in this region, there are about five good long days of riding from Cao Bang across to Hag Giang and back down to Hanoi. You won’t want to rush this route any quicker.

Option 3: Rural Laos and Northern Thailand

You could spend your entire two weeks in Southeast Asia exploring the rural countryside of Laos and the mountains of northern Thailand. Cruise through the rice fields, tube your way down the river and meet the people of the ethnic villages. Also check out my two-week Laos travel itinerary.

Laos Travel Itinerary

  • Vientiane – 2 days

Start off with 2 days in Vientiane where you will find a quiet city with a French Colonial feel. Explore the French architecture, eat lots of fresh baguettes and drink those damn tasty fruit smoothies. Be sure to head down to the river promenade by sunset where you can watch the sunset over Thailand across the water while eating tasty cheap street food.

  • Vang Vieng – 2 days

Continue north to Vang Vieng, a small town in the jungle which was once famous for tubing down the river. These days you can still go tubing, but it is a much more relaxed version of the raging party it once was. Spend 2 days here tubing, exploring the waterfalls and swimming in the various Blue Lagoons.

  • Luang Prabang – 3 days

Next up is Luang Prabang, the city of temples. I suggest spending 3 days here. There are over 30 ancient Buddhist temples scattered around the town which you can easily explore on foot. Get up early to see the procession of monks walking the streets accepting food offerings from the locals. Make a day trip to the Kuang Si Falls 30km from town, then kick back in the afternoon with a cold beer for sunset. Discover more things to do in Luang Prabang…

  • Chiang Rai – 3 days

Chiang Rai is the nor thernmost province of Thailand. You can catch the slow boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai or hop on a bus which is a fair bit quicker. Chiang Rai deserves at least 3 days. First explore the iconic temples around town; White Temple, Blue Temple, and Black House. The next day you can head up to the mountains to see the sunrise above the clouds at Phu Chi Fa and visit the minority hill tribes. On the third-day head west for a day trip to the hot springs, some of the best I’ve found in Southeast Asia. Read my ultimate Chiang Rai travel guide here…

  • Chiang Mai – 3 days

Finally, head south to Chiang Mai , the former capital of the ancient Thai Lanna Kingdom back in the 15 th Century. All throughout the old quarter, you will find remnants of the ancient city still intact such as the old perimeter wall and a number of Buddhist temples. These days Chiang Mai is the second largest in Thailand after Bangkok. It’s loaded with things to do such as markets, temples and cooking schools. Of course, explore the nearby waterfalls, and mountains like Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep . A trip to Chiang Mai is worth at least 3 days.

Option 4: Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok

This two week Southeast Asia itinerary from Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok will maximize the diversity of cultures in a short trip. You will travel through three countries and get a quick taste of each country, but leave you wanting to explore more on your next trip.

Temples in Bangkok

  • Ho Chi Minh City – 3 days

Kick off with Ho Chi Minh City where you can eat loads of the tasty Pho Noodles and Banh Mi Rolls. This street food is common to find and really cheap. During the day you can explore the Vietnam War history. The Vietnam War Museum and the Chu Chi Tunnels just north of town are both worth a visit. Next, make a day trip down to the Mekong Delta, the region where the Mekong River meets the ocean. Here you will find busy floating markets and small villages along the riverside. Be sure to hop on a small wooden boat for a short cruise through the Mekong Delta mangroves, it is a great way to see the region properly.

  • Phnom Penh – 2 days

Work your way east through Cambodia to the city of Phnom Penh. This isn’t one of the most bustling cities you will find in Southeast Asia. It is quite erratic and still in a developing state. Most people visit to see The Killing Fields, one of the most notable locations of the Khmer Rouge regime. The promenade along the Mekong River is a nice place to relax in the afternoon with a handful of bars and restaurants along the strip.

  • Siam Reap – 2 days

Siam Reap is home to one of Southeast Asia’s oldest most iconic temples, Angkor Wat. This huge temple was built way back in the 12th Century, originally as a Hindu temple, then converted to a Buddhist temple. Angkor Wat is located right near town and can be easily explored on your first day. The next day you can head a little further out of town to explore the huge Tonle Sap lake where you will find villages floating on the water, it is a very unique destination to add to your Southeast Asia itinerary.

  •   Koh Chang – 3 days

As you cross from Cambodia to Thailand you will reach Trat Province. There are a few great islands in this region, one of them being Koh Chang or “the elephant island.” Koh Chang is the third largest Thai island with lots of beautiful beaches. It will take over 1 hour to ride around the island by motorbike. Then you can also explore the smaller nearby islands with a snorkeling day trip. Be sure to read my definitive guide to the beaches on Koh Chang here…

  • Bangkok – 3 days

Finally, you reach Bangkok , the capital city of Thailand and one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia. This mega-metropolis really has enough to keep you busy for weeks. With three days you can cram in a few temples, an island, some great nightlife, and plenty of tasty street food. Oh, and don’t forget to check out a floating market on the outskirts of the city.

Be sure the check out my huge Bangkok travel guide if you plan to visit even for a day or two.

best asia trip itinerary

Option 5: Singapore and Malaysia

If it’s your first time in Asia and you want to ease yourself into the region, then this 2 week Southeast Asia itinerary starting in Singapore and working north through Malaysia is the option for you.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

  • Singapore – 3 days

Singapore is the most westernized city in Southeast Asia. It’s clean, it’s orderly, but it’s also expensive. I suggest spending 3 days exploring the city and the nearby islands. My favorite destinations in Singapore were the Jurong Bird Park, Gardens by the Bay, and Ubin Island. Be sure to visit the hawker markets where you will find loads of incredible food. The local specialty is the Oyster Omelette, though I wasn’t so crazy about it.

  • Malacca – 2 days

From Singapore, you can hop on a bus that crosses the bridge to Johor Bahru in Malaysia, then continue north to Malacca. This small town has a diverse history having been occupied by the Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Japanese at different times. Spend 2 days in Malacca exploring the local attractions, understanding its history, and eating lots and lots of local food around the town center.

  • Kuala Lumpur – 3 days

Just 2 hours north of Malacca you will reach Kuala Lumpur , the capital city of Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur is so culturally diverse. You will find a huge population of Indian, Chinese and ethnic Malays each bringing their own style of food to the city. Spend 3 days in Kuala Lumpur eating your way through Chinatown, Little India, and exploring the sights of the city.

Penang is located just 2.5 kilometers off the west coast of Malaysia. This relatively large island is accessible by the bridge connecting it to the mainland, so buses can head directly to the island from Kuala Lumpur. Penang has an interesting mix of street art, nice beaches, national parks, war history, and authentic Malaysia villages. The best way to do Penang is to hire a motorbike and just explore the island for a few days.

The island of Langkawi is as north as you can go in Malaysia. This huge tropical island has some amazing beaches to explore right around the island. Be sure to check out the Langkawi Skybridge Viewpoint for an amazing panorama view looking out over the Andaman Sea. There is quite a large town on Langkawi where you will find a whole range of hotels from budget through to luxury resorts. It is an island that can accommodate any sort of traveler.

Conclusions: 2 Weeks in Southeast Asia

As you can see, there is no single way to to do plan two weeks in Southeast Asia. The above five options are meant to give you an idea of what’s achievable, but they are not the only options out there. I have not even touched on Indonesia or the Philippines yet, which I may add details on in the future.

If I can leave you with one bit of advice on traveling to Southeast Asia for two weeks, do not try to see it all . If you think you can see five or more countries in less than two weeks, then you’re quickly going to learn that it is not very fun.

If you’d like me to help you with planning your trip, be sure to send me a message through my travel planning inquiry page. First, I will collect the essential details about your trip. Then, I’ll work on a trip plan which we can review and discuss on a call.

My goal is that you get the best possible trip and continue to use The Lost Passport as your go-to travel resource.

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Let me show you how to travel Asia better, further, and easier than you can imagine. The highest waterfalls, remote islands, best street food, and plenty more! Josh Shephard

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How to plan a perfect trip to Asia – tips for your first Asia vacation & how to choose the best travel itinerary

One of the cheapest and the most colourful destinations for travellers – Southeast Asia is a dream come true. Make sure that you plan a trip to Asia properly, choose the backpacking route well and craft the best travel itinerary, avoiding any problems. How? Check below!

How to plan a perfect trip to Asia. Asia trip planning guide

If you follow my social media platforms ( and if you don’t, better start now 😉 Facebook , Instagram , Twitter ), you probably know, that I just came back from an epic trip to Asia. It wasn’t my first trip to that region – I’ve previously been to the Philippines, India, Malaysia and Russia, but this time I’ve visited two new countries – Indonesia and Singapore . My trip began with a traditional wedding in India near Bangalore, followed by visiting stunning Singapore skyscrapers, travelling through the Bali jungle, swimming with turtles in Gili islands and climbing volcanoes of East Java .

Independent travel is what I love the most and what gives me the biggest satisfaction from my trips. But how to make it right? How to plan a dream trip to Asia and make sure that everything works out well?

If you’re travelling soon, check my travel resources page , where I share my favourite travel websites and companies to book trips on a budget.

How to plan a perfect trip to Asia?

#1 pick the best time.

If you work full time, as I do, you probably need to book time off in advance. Check when you can take it and based on that choose your destination. Not having enough vacation days? Have a look here for some tips on how to travel more, even with a full-time job!

For me, the time was already decided, as I was going for my friend’s wedding in India. Based on that, I chose my further destinations.

Colourful market in India, how to plan a trip to Asia

#2 Choose the travel itinerary

Some parts of the world are simply impossible or very inconvenient to be visited at particular times of the year. Might it be a monsoon season, hurricanes, freezing cold or dreadful heat. You want to avoid that, so choose wisely and do the research!

For travelling on a budget, you need to make sure that you can get to the specific location at a reasonable price. This might get more complicated if you’re combining several countries and flying between the destinations. However, research pays off. For my trip to Asia, I searched through several flight booking sites, to find the cheapest prices for the best destinations. Kiwi.com is a very helpful one, as it allows you to search based on the radius around the location and the departure airport. Make sure to check at least a few flight search engines. Some other helpful ones are Expedia  and Kayak.  For the full list  click here .

Based on that, I looked at different vacation destinations in Asia. Alex and I wanted to find the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, but not overly crowded and with a (cheap!) flight connection from India. We checked places like Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, Malaysia or less known the Andaman Islands. Taking everything into consideration, we finally decided on Indonesia – a country, that I’ve always wanted to visit. Since the flights from India to Indonesia usually go through Singapore, I added it to my itinerary and made my layover longer, by fitting a day to walk around the city.

#3 Do the research or just wing it

I’m a “planner” and always want to know what is worth visiting in a particular location. I don’t want to miss out and I also prefer to avoid crowded or overly touristy places. This, together with some reading about the history of the country gives me a good background for deciding on which places I want to visit and which to skip. I base my research on the destination travel blogs, where the bloggers are always helpful to answer questions or I use the good travel guidebooks .

However, I often leave the plan open for changes to be able to adjust it if needed. I normally don’t even book accommodation, as I know that it’s very easy to find cheap and good hostels in Southeast Asia on the go. This gives me the flexibility in case my plans change. The more you travel, the easier it will be for you to act spontaneously on your trip.

For your first Asia vacation: 

  • make a plan with the travel itinerary based on your research
  • book the first hotel night after arrival
  • add some more places to the list, in case you change your mind or can’t get to the ones from the original plan and then make final decisions while you are there
  • talk to locals and talk to other travellers – they are a great source of information and have it all updated, which is much more helpful than scrolling through the old posts on the Internet

How to plan a trip to Asia, Gili islands, Indonesia

#4 Plan the travel route

  • Less is more – cut out

Many of us, I included, have a FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) syndrome. We want to be everywhere, see and do everything. Unfortunately, with a limited time it’s not possible, so you need to rule some things out. Focus on what you really want to see when planning your Asia travel route and keep other places as a possibility in case of change of plans.

  • Add an extra day

Travelling in Asia can be unpredictable. There are massive delays on the local airlines, buses leave only when full, which involves several hours of waiting. There can be floods, earthquakes or volcano eruptions (almost happened to us!), that can slow you down. Therefore, add one or two days, just in case. This will also allow you to take things a bit slower and enjoy it more, not stressing out if you’re going to make it for the flight.

  • Don’t double back

Plan your Asia travel route in a way, that you don’t come back to the same location. Take different paths, which allows you to see more. In some cases, this might be difficult, but try to avoid it as much as you can.

How to plan a trip to Asia - travelling in Asia

#5 Be flexible

It’s good to plan a trip to Asia properly, with a scheduled plan and treat it as a base and a direction to follow. However, at the same time, leave yourself space for changes. Maybe you’ll fall in love with one particular place and would want to stay there longer? Or you meet great people and follow their travel plans, instead of yours? Or get invited to the traditional ceremony by the locals, that you just can’t miss? The world is full of opportunities and missing one stop on your itinerary doesn’t mean that you’re missing out – just often the opposite!

How to plan trip to Asia

#6 Get ready for the unexpected

As often as we like to think that “those things only happen to others, not me”, life is unpredictable and everything can happen.

When we were planning our trip to Indonesia, days before the departure the media boomed with the news of  the high risk of the volcano eruption . The volcano happened to be in Bali , which was our first stop. The whole area around the mountain, that we planned to go to, was closed and we needed to change our plans last minute. We also had to be prepared in case of an eruption and know what to do for the emergency. Luckily, nothing happened (and hopefully won’t happen), but better be safe than sorry!

Last, but not least – it’s your holidays, that you worked hard for, so don’t worry too much about ticking places off the list, just go with a flow and enjoy yourself. The more you travel, the easier it will be to let it go, learn about the places from the locals and other travellers. Remember – enjoy every minute of it!

Gili islands, Indonesia

Where is your next trip to Asia to? What are your tips to plan a perfect trip to Asia? Let me know in the comments!

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How to plan a perfect trip to Asia? Find out the best Asia itinerary and Asia travel route. Go backpacking in SouthEast Asia with those Asia travel tips | Worldering around #Asia #traveltips #SouthEastAsia #travelplan

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22 thoughts on “ How to plan a perfect trip to Asia – tips for your first Asia vacation & how to choose the best travel itinerary ”

I’m Vietnamese, but have not been back to visit. Will have to refer to this when we plan our trip.

I hope you’ll manage to visit soon 🙂

Great post, I’m currently living in Thailand and love it! I remember how crazy and scary my first solo visit was, your tips are really good and I wish I had them back then! Lovely pictures!

Thanks! Wow, this must be amazing to live there 🙂 You’re definitely an Asia expert now then! 🙂

Can not wait for another trip to Asia <3 It was such a wonderful thing to explore it!

I just came back and can’t wait to go again!

I completely agree that traveling in Asia, and anywhere for that matter, can be completely unpredictable. I’m currently on my third long term backpacking trip in Asia and despite planning there are always bumps in the road – although it does add to the adventure of course. I was actually in Bali myself when the volcano was set to erupt, however luckily it didn’t affect my plans. Thanks for sharing!

That’s very true! We’ll see what happens with the volcano, hopefully, it’s all fine. Thanks for your comment 🙂

These are very useful travel tips for travelling anywhere in the world! We are backpacking now through central America and I am really learning to just go with the flow and finding joy in all the crazy, unpredictable things that happen. Thanks for your share!

You are very right 🙂 It’s important to remember about those things during travels in any place in the world. Enjoy your trip!

I’ve only been to big cities in Asia so far; Shanghai and Tokyo. Yet to venture into the South-East. I’ve travelled a fair bit over the world but I’m still a bit of a control freak and like an itinerary lol.

A good itinerary is a great help, but it’s also nice sometimes to go with a flow:) Good luck in your future travels!

From your post, i learn that,with good planning, you achieve better result and always make the plan flexible. Nice post.

Thanks! I hope it was helpful!

I agree with all you wrote here, and even though I sometimes still have a little FOMO, I`ve been trying to embrace slow travel and my last trips were really good! I think what you wrote is useful not only when planning a trip to Asia, your recommendations can be applied to other trips as well. Didn`t know kiwi, definitely going to try it!

Thanks for your comment, Vick! Slow travel would be amazing, but I’m still in need of more time 😉 Hopefully, one day! Good luck in your travels!

I broadly agree with the points that you raise. In fact, I think that they could be applied to vacation planning in general. In particular, I thinks it’s a good idea to do a lot of research, but then to leave the itinerary open to change. Local advice often beats the guidebook. Hands down!

Thank you, Gearoid! I couldn’t agree more, that the local advise often beats the guidebooks, however, sometimes you also need to take it with a pinch of salt and filter through 😀

I’m planning a three week trip to Asia in 2022 to celebrate my 70th birthday. Not planning to backpack but would like to a week in three locations via intra flights from one to the next. Would love suggestions on three great places to visit. Considering China, Thailand, Vietnam.

Hi! That sounds great, but only a week split in 3 countries is a bit short, unless you mean a week in each of them, then it makes more sense 🙂 There is a lot to see in all of them – so it depends on how much sight-seeing you want to do and what exactly you’re interested in – nature, cities, culture, food. I’d say Thailand is more touristy than Vietnam and China is obviously huge, so you would need to decide on a small part of it. You would also need to check the visas needed for each of the countries. Good luck!

Asia has a wide range of tour spot when it comes to Asia, India is one of the best countries one can visit and explore some many histories with a lots of amazing facts India is a budgeted country you can spend money and satisfy your needs you can visit India just to see how colorful it is and it is the country of joy!thanks for the tips the article is helpful.

Glad you like it! I also have some more articles about India: Bangalore Belur and Halebid temples

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Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

best asia trip itinerary

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

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Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

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Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

best asia trip itinerary

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

best asia trip itinerary

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

best asia trip itinerary

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

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History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

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From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

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The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

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Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

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Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

best asia trip itinerary

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

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If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

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Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

best asia trip itinerary

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

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Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

best asia trip itinerary

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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best asia trip itinerary

Luang Prabang

best asia trip itinerary

Kuala Lumpur

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Two Week Traveller

2 Weeks In Southeast Asia: 7 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Southeast Asia is probably one of the most diverse regions of Asia. There are only 11 countries in Southeast Asia , but each country has their own languages, own traditions, cultures, history and things to offer its visitors.

Southeast Asia is home to stunning white sand beaches, beautiful mountains to hike, and authentic dishes that the world has come to enjoy.

If you combine the islands in the Philippines and Indonesia, you are talking about nearly 20,000 islands. These two are also regions with active volcanoes and surfing spots.

While Thailand and Vietnam are proud to present their delicious food that not even your favourite Thai and Vietnamese restaurants could come close to replicating.

Alright, I’m not trying to overwhelm you. Southeast Asia has so much to offer to all kinds of visitors; hiking, food adventure, surfing, beach bumming, exotic animals and fruits, and so much more in between.

2 weeks in Southeast Asia is not enough, that’s for sure . However, with plenty of planning, you can cover many areas and do so many things.

I will show you seven travel itineraries for Southeast Asia featuring Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, The Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Be prepared, this is a long-form guide . You can also book mark this article or save on your Pinterest.

In the next chapter, I will also share some things you should know before you go, such as visa, language and currencies, getting around, and which month you should come and visit to maximise your time.

TIP : This post is quite long, I recommend you use the table of contents below. Each itinerary shows the places to see and hotel recommendations.

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR SOUTHEAST ASIA

6 images - Singapore gardens, Batu caves in Malaysia, Vietnamese food on a wooden tray, thai boat in a karst rock waters, mount bromo in indonesia, shoreline of Boracay Philippines - 2 Weeks In Southeast Asia Itinerary

These are the only basic things you should remember before booking anything. If you plan to do something very specific, I recommend reading more to ensure you are not visiting during bad timing or the wrong season.

When is the best time to travel to Southeast Asia

Although Southeast Asian countries are pretty close to each other, the seasons can’t be any more different .

For example, Vietnam actually has a winter season if you are visiting the northern region, while the typhoon season in the Philippines and Thailand is a bit different.

November to February is a good time to visit Southeast Asia . It’s drier, cooler, and has less chance of rain – it’s the perfect time for hiking and doing water activities.

However, in the north of Thailand and Vietnam, these months could be colder than expected, and the visibility in the mountains could be poor.

Are 2 weeks enough for Southeast Asia

Two weeks can be a decent amount of time for a Southeast Asia trip , depending on your travel style and priorities. With careful planning and prioritising of destinations, you can visit a few countries and experience some of the highlights of the region.

However, keep in mind that Southeast Asia is a vast and diverse region with many unique cultures and attractions, so two weeks may feel rushed for those who want to explore more extensively . Plus, travelling between countries can vary from a bus ride to taking a one to 3-hour flight.

You can probably visit 1-2 countries in Southeast Asia in under 14 days if they’re near one another. A good example of this is Vietnam and Cambodia or Thailand and Cambodia.

But, many capital cities in Southeast Asia have direct flights, making it easy to spend one week in one country and the second week in another country. The bottom line is to plan to see 3-4 cities when making your travel itinerary .

Which countries are sharing land borders

Some destinations in Southeast Asia are the best combination on a single journey. Countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos have land border points, and backpackers suggest getting the best out of these border-crossing relationships.

Crossing the land borders can also lessen the expense and save you time at the same time .

I spent two weeks between Singapore and Malaysia, but I also spent 2 weeks in Thailand and Cambodia. I crossed the land border for both trips. On the other hand, my 2 weeks in the Philippines and Indonesia were via non-stop flight.

How to get around

There’s not really one answer except – using the Grab or Gojek app . These are ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft. These apps offer rides for cars, taxis, and even motorbike taxis in this region.

Grab and Gojek apps work in almost any major city in Southeast Asia, except in Laos, Myanmar, Brunei, and Timor Leste.

There are also other apps like Bee, inDriver, Angkas, etc – but not all these apps work in the entire region of Southeast Asia.

Buses are the cheapest way to get around , while domestic flying is also pretty good, and flight tickets are affordable. There are usually taxis but beware of drivers who will tap their meter to get your fare higher.

Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines have some short and long-distance train systems. Singapore has a fantastic metro system throughout the country.

6 images of different types of traditional transporation in Southeast Asia - a jeepney, a longboat, tuktuks, a Filipino boat, and rickshaw bikes from Vietnam - 2 Weeks In Southeast Asia Itinerary

Language and currency

Languages and currencies in Southeast Asia vary from country to country. However, getting your USD, GBP, AUD, and CAD converted to the local currency is easy . With the exception of Cambodia.

Cambodia uses USD and Cambodian Riel. You can pay with these currencies pretty much anywhere (in cash). The ATM will even dispense USD, but if you pay $1 for a $.50 worth of an item, you won’t get a chance (not even in Riel).

There are ATMs in all major cities and airports and payment with the card has been taking off, but cash is still king in Southeast Asia . You might be able to pay for your hotel with your card, while the rest will be in cash.

English is widely spoken in the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, while these countries also have their own main languages (Tagalog, Malay, Mandarin, and Bahasa Indonesia).

In Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia – if you are in big cities, it’s easy to get by with English. Most younger locals can communicate well in English.

It’s also helpful to download the local languages on your Google Translate app. It’s not the best, but it’s surprisingly helpful.

Southeast Asia trip budget for 2 weeks

The budget for Southeast for 14 days can vary a lot. Although this region is generally affordable, the prices of services such as accommodation, transportation, and tours are very different for each country.

Your budget will depend on the places you want to see. For example, Singapore costs almost the same as Europe or North America. But Vietnam, Laos, and Indonesia offer super affordable accommodations.

To give you some ideas: On average, around $700 to $900 is a decent budget for 2 weeks in Southeast Asia for one person. This includes mid-range accommodation, transportation, a tour, and okay food.

You can go on a shoestring backpacker budget of $500 to $700 , but that means staying in a shared dorm room, booking a standard tour, eating street food, and most likely booking a bus for transport instead of flying or taking the train.

For honeymooners or luxury travellers, $1,500 to $2,500 is an extraordinary budget that allows you to stay in comfortable hotels or resorts, comfortable transportation, and high-end restaurants.

Visa and COVID-19 policy

Each country has different visa policies. Some allow most European, North and Latin America, and neighbouring countries to enter visa-free or for a small fee. Here’s a quick summary of visa requirements in Southeast Asia:

  • Brunei – visa-free for 14 to 90 days
  • Cambodia – secure your visa in advance , valid for 30-90 days
  • Indonesia – apply for an eVoa valid for 30-90 days
  • Laos – visa on arrival or evisa for 30 days
  • Malaysia – visa-free for 30-90 days
  • Myanmar – must get an evisa for 90 days
  • Philippines – you get 30 days visa-free
  • Singapore – no need for a visa for 30 days
  • Timor Leste/East Timor – visa-free or visa-on-arrival for 30 days
  • Thailand – at least 30 days visa-free
  • Vietnam – apply for an evisa valid for 30 or 90 days

All the countries in this article have fully reopened their borders to international tourists. Each country has implemented different COVID-19 protocols, but many have removed them.

f you’re vaccinated, it’s best to bring your vaccine card just to be sure and pack some masks. Many capital cities (condensed cities) still require wearing masks in public transportation and health facilities.

DISCLAIMER : Each country has different policies in place, please do your research before booking anything. We are not responsible if you are not allowed to enter the country.

Travel arrangement tips

For those who enjoy planning a trip in advance, make sure to book your hotel at least 3 months prior to arrival especially if visiting in December and during the Lunar New Year .

Domestic flights, buses, and trains can be booked last minute as long as you’re not visiting during Christmas, New Year’s, or Lunar New Year (peak season).

2 WEEKS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA ITINERARY

We have 7 travel itineraries here for spending 14 days in Southeast Asia. You don’t have to follow the itineraries religiously, but it will give you an idea of how many days to spend in each city, how to get from one place to another, and which countries are best to combine.

You should check out our compilation travel itineraries for Southeast Asia to help you decide where to go.

Package tours

If it’s your first time in Southeast Asia and you want this trip to be a little less stressful, you might want to consider booking a package tour.

This type of tour is great because the tour company will arrange 90% of the things you need to book on your behalf. This includes planning transportation, finding accommodation, arranging tours and activities, hiring tour guides, and even porters if needed.

A package tour is ideal for solo travellers, family adventurers, and retiree people . Even travellers between 18-year-olds to 30s would sign up for package tours for a smooth sailing trip.

If you have two weeks in Southeast Asia, you can book the 10 days and leave yourself with 4 days to explore on your own, or book the entire 14 days, it’s up to you.

Here’s a list of Southeast Asia tours that you can take a look at . You will also find combo tours or specific-destination tours:

Itinerary #1: Thailand and Cambodia

Cambodia and Thailand are great combo destinations, and they share a land border and both are affordable.

Thailand is the getaway of the Southeast . It’s undeniably one of the most popular countries in this region, offering fantastic beaches, exciting activities, and world-class cuisine.

Thailand is known for the party scene in Bangkok , the paradise-like beaches of Phuket, and the incredible hiking trails in Chiang Mai.

Cambodia is famous for the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat and the dark period of the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s. While the rich history is a significant draw for visitors, this country has much more to offer for those who stay longer than just a quick temple tour in Siem Reap.

Beyond the temples, this charming nation is a must-visit destination for travellers.

Since Thailand and Cambodia share a land border, it’s very easy to travel between them . Although neighbours, Cambodia and Thailand actually have very different cultures, languages, currencies, and histories from one another – making this 2 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary the best one for first-time visitors in the region.

We have articles for 2 weeks in Thailand and 2 weeks in Cambodia that you can have a look at.

2 images - a couple on a boat in Thailand and Wat Benchamabophit Dusit Vanaram Temple in Thailand

Bangkok for 3 days

Visit Bangkok for its intoxicating blend of old and new, where ancient temples coexist with bustling markets and towering skyscrapers. The city’s vibrant street life and renowned street food offer an immersive cultural experience.

This is Southeast Asia’s party capital for affordable drinks, lively bars, and clubs open until morning.

Bangkok has three major international airports that have direct flights to many cities in Asia, Oceania, and even Europe. This means that Bangkok is an ideal city to start your 2 weeks in Southeast Asia trip.

Phuket and Krabi or Koh Phangan and Koh Samui for 4 days

The province of Krabi is situated in the Andaman Sea. Apart from Krabi, or known to be the beach paradise, here you can hire tour boats or speed boats stretching you to Phi Phi or the four islands (Poda, Hong, Chicken, and Tup).

You can also bathe and glide on Railey, which is only accessible via a short boat ride.

If you want a more twist on your stay, various activities such as snorkelling, rock climbing, cave exploration, and so much more in Phra Nang and Tonsai Beach.

If you’ve wanted a solitary experience with nature and the line of trees itself, consider heading to the caves of Ko Hong. Surrounding the white sand beach are extraordinary cliffs and the soothing rumble of the waves.

Siem Reap and Battambang for 4 days

Siem Reap and Battambang are perfect for four days. Most people spend only one day in Angkor Wat, but it’s such an enormous place you can get a multi-day pass. On the other hand, you can also see other spots in Siem Reap, such as Pub Street, National Museum, and Wat Bo.

From Siem Reap, you can do a day trip to Battambang. It’s known for its bamboo train ride. An old train track has been repurposed by locals, which then became a tourist attraction.

Phnom Penh for 3 days

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and is rich in history and culture. This is the best place to learn about Cambodia’s dark history during Khmer Rogue. You can visit the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison).

You can also see the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, Wat Phnom, and the Central Market with three days in hand. Make sure to check out the nightlife at Rue Pasteur No. 51 or Street 308 (aka Bassac Street).

MOVING AROUND : I recommend you start your trip in Thai islands and finish in Bangkok. This is because you now have an option to either fly to Siem Reap or take the bus. From the southern Thai islands, flying ot Siem Reap means you need to connect in Bangkok, while travel by land is just a waste of time. From Bangkok, you can fly or travel by land (much slower) to the islands. From Siem Reap, you can fly to Phnom Penh or take a 6-hour bus or minivan ride.

Itinerary #2: Cambodia and Vietnam

Cambodia and Vietnam are two great destinations in Southeast Asia to combine. These two countries share a land border, and both places are rich in history, have fun beaches, and are affordable. If you only want to see Vietnam, have a read on 2 weeks in Vietnam itinerary .

Start your trip in Siem Reap and go east to Phnom Penh, then cross the border to Ho Chi Minh. From there, you can travel by land or fly to Da Nang to end your trip.

On the other hand, instead of South Vietnam, you can do the northern region . This means that you will fly from Sihanoukville or Phnom Penh to Hanoi or Da Nang and finish your trip either in Hanoi or in Da Nang.

This itinerary is suitable for people who love history but also want to do some water activities. These two places are also super ideal if you’re on a budget because Vietnam and Cambodia are Southeast Asia’s two most budget-friendly countries.

2 images - Naga Bridge and Sok San Village

Siem Reap for 3 days

Go to Siem Reap to witness the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, and explore the ancient ruins of the Khmer Empire.

Besides temples, indulge in vibrant night markets, savour delectable Cambodian cuisine, and experience the rich culture through traditional Apsara dance performances.

Phnom Penh for 2 days

Phnom Penh is the place to go to immerse yourself in Cambodia’s rich history and culture. The city, nestled at the confluence of three rivers, boasts iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda.

The National Museum offers insight into Cambodia’s ancient history, while the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields are poignant reminders of its recent past.

Sihanoukville and Koh Rong for 3 days

Nearing beaches and coastal views, Sihanoukville has got to be the perfect venture for lovers of the environment. It has tropical islands and mangrove jungles. Aside from sightseeing and soaking on the beaches, the nightlife is consistently wild on this side of Cambodia. 

Beach, waterfalls, national parks, you name it, Sihanoukville offers any adventure to each traveller and guest. Accommodations are affordable, and the restaurant is rich in seafood, perhaps making this place worth visiting.

To make your memorable more exciting, Koh Rong, an island just outside the province of Sihanoukville , is known for its sandy coves and coral reefs. The island is perfect for a getaway trip away from modern life while engaging in many water activities.

Ho Chi Minh City for 2 days

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, with its dynamic energy and rich history. The city’s streets are filled with motorbikes, street vendors, and aromatic food stalls. E xplore the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels for insights into the Vietnam War.

The French colonial architecture, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, is a great start. Don’t miss the lively markets like Ben Thanh, and indulge in the city’s burgeoning culinary and coffee scene. You can do all these in just two days if you combine Cu Chi Tunnels with a night or city tour.

Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue for 5 days

Da Nang City, a coastal gem in Central Vietnam, offers pristine beaches, such as My Khe Beach, and stunning natural wonders, like the Marble Mountains. The city’s modernity is showcased through its towering skyscrapers, plus the iconic Dragon Bridge.

You can plan a day trip to the ancient town of Hoi An , and the imperial city of Hue provides cultural depth. Da Nang, or Central Vietnam, is the perfect place to finish your trip because you can enjoy the beach and be lazy on the last few days of your vacation.

MOVING AROUND : If you begin your trip in Siem Reap, you can take a bus or private transfer to Phnom Penh. You can also fly, which is quick, but you’ll have to arrive at the airport early anyway. From Phnom Penh, take the bus to Sihanoukville. There’s also a bus from Sihanoukville to Ho Chi Minh City. You will have to get off the bus to present your evisa and get a stamp exit from Cambodia and entry to Vietnam. Back to your bus, you will head to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). Da Nang is over 12 hours bus ride from Saigon, so it’s best to take a domestic flight.

2 images - Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi and traditional boat in Ancient Town of Hoi An

Or do – Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue for 3 days

Instead of spending 5 days in Central Vietnam, you can plan a 3-day trip and then combine a 5-day trip in the north.

Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sa Pa for 5 days

If you rather explore northern Vietnam, you can fly to Hanoi from Sihanoukville to Hanoi. You can explore Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sa Pa from there. But you must plan your itinerary carefully to make sure you cover all 3 locations.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where ancient traditions blend with a modern touch. Wander through the Old Quarter’s bustling streets and markets, or find tranquillity at Hoan Kiem Lake.

You can plan a day trip to Halong Bay from Hanoi, but I recommend you stay at least one night on a cruise there. Then, once you’re back in the city, you can visit Sa Pa next, see the rice fields, and go hiking. I also prefer to have Halong Bay as the last place to visit since it’s a more relaxing location.

Finish your visit to northern Vietnam by making sure that you dine and try authentic pho, bun cha, and Vietnamese coffee.

Itinerary #3: Vietnam and Thailand

This 2 weeks in Southeast Asia itinerary is perfect for people who are visiting the region for the first time . Vietnam and Thailand have a perfect balance of history, culture, food, and beautiful beaches.

Start your holiday learning about the history, culture, and food of Vietnam. I would recommend you don’t plan on spending too much time doing water activities here because you can do that in Thailand.

After Vietnam, head to Thailand, where you can continue immersing yourself in culture and food, plus enjoy the beach and water activities on this country’s pristine coastline.

2 images - Thai boats in Phuket and boats in Halong Bay

Hanoi and Halong Bay or Sa Pa for 5 days

Fly into Hanoi and spend your days learning about its history and booking a night or two to Halong Bay or Sa Pa. Go to Halong Bay if you want to do kayaking, cruising, and other water activities.

Head to Sa Pa to learn about the native people of Indochina, see rice paddies and go hiking with the locals.

If you go to Halong Bay, you can take a short flight from there (Hai Phong Airport) to Da Nang. But from Sa Pa, you must travel back to Hanoi to get on the flight to central Vietnam.

Hue, Hoi An and Da Nang for 3 days or Ho Chi Minh City

Three days is a tight schedule for central Vietnam, but it’s doable. It’s a mixture of culture, history, and scenic trips. You can easily combine Hue and Hoi An for a full-day trip. But if you rather see the south of Vietnam, go to Ho Chi Minh City from Hanoi or Halong Bay instead.

Whatever you choose shouldn’t be a problem. Both Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City have flights to Bangkok. More flights are available from HCMC, but there are plenty from Da Nang too.

Bangkok is such a wild place for many reasons. It’s a city where young backpackers who love to party, cultural enthusiasts, history lovers, and foodies can co-exist and enjoy the same place. Want to party? Go to Khao San Road, If you want to see temples, head to the Grand Palace and Wat Arun.

Would you prefer to see more culture and try local dishes ? Book a boat trip to Damneon Saduak Floating Market or roam through Samut Prakan Ancient City.

You’re now approaching the best part of this itinerary, where you can spend hours on the beach and enjoying the sun. Choose between Phuket and Krabi or Koh Phangan and Koh Samui.

Go to Phuket and Krabi if you prefer a bigger town with lots of things to do but also allows you to lie on the beach and read a book . These are also ideal destinations if you’re travelling with children or as a family.

On the other hand, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui are popular with backpackers and young travellers, perfect for those who want to enjoy the beach, party all night, and go on boat tours.

Both places have plenty of water activities though, but the Phuket area also has some hiking trails unavailable in Koh Phangan.

MOVING AROUND : Arrive in Hanoi. From there, you can reach Halong Bay by bus, private transfer, or by plane. Leaving nothern Vietnam, it’s best to take a domestic flight to central or south of Vietnam. You can reach Thailand by flying to Bangkok. And from Bangkok, you must book a plane to either Phuket or Koh Samui.

Itinerary #4: Philippines and Indonesia

2 weeks in Southeast Asia are well-spent in the Philippines. The Philippines is such a fun region to visit for water activities. Wherever you are coming from, visit from November to February when the weather is cooler and there is less chance of rain.

This is the peak season, so expect some crowd, especially during Christmas.

T his itinerary is perfect for travellers who enjoy the beaches, culture, and outdoor activitie s. In the Philippines, you can go see the marine beauty of Southeast Asia. While in Indonesia, you can go hiking and then finish the trip by soaking up the stunning beaches of Bali.

When you arrive in Manila, spend a day or two to settle down and get through your itinerary again. Perhaps you need to buy essentials such as a sim card with mobile data or book hotels or domestic flights.

READ: 2 weeks in the Philippines or our 2 weeks in Indonesia

2 images - Mount Bromo and Small Lagoon in El Nido

Boracay or Cebu or Bohol for 3 days

From Manila, take a flight to Boracay. There are two airports near the island: Kalibo and Caticlan. Kalibo Airport is about an hour’s drive to the port that takes you to Boracay Island. Caticlan Airport is right at the port, where you can catch the ferry to Boracay.

Boracay is popular for its fine white sand beach and crystal clear water. It’s also a spot for snorkelling, diving, jet ski driving, and more. Boracay is also the party island of the Philippines. Spending about 3 days here is a sweet spot.

On the other hand, you can go to Cebu and Bohol instead . The beaches are not as beautiful, but there are lots of scenic places to check out, such as Chocolate Hills, Tarsier Conservatory Park, and the Turtle Sanctuary in Panglao.

Go choose Boracay if you like to party and want to see one of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. Head to Cebu if you’re a nature lover and prefer a less busy place.

Coron or El Nido for 3 days

Next, you can take a flight from Cebu to Palawan. Now, there are two ways to explore Palawan: from north to south or the other way around. If you want to see the underground river, you want to fly to Puerto Princesa. But if you want to visit Coron first for the beautiful reefs, diving spots, and famous WII shipwreck, fly into Coron.

Coming from Coron , you can spend about 2 days here, and then you can take a ferry to El Nido – another snorkelling spot loved for the fine white sand beach. Enj oy 2 days here. For the final leg, head to Puerto Princesa or Sabang, where you can visit the Underground River.

If starting from Puerto Princessa, reverse the itinerary above. You can fly both from Coron and Puerto Princesa directly back to Manila.

East Java for 3 days; Mount Bromo or Mount Ijen

Choose between Mount Bromo and Mount Ijen; both are located in Surabaya. Mount Bromo is more popular, and Mount Ijen is a bit more challenging and requires an overnight stay along the trail.

So, go for Mount Ijen if you want some adventure, but if you’re after a scenic view, Mount Bromo is the place to go.

Bali for 4 days

Bali Island, a tropical paradise in Indonesia, is known for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant coral reefs. The island’s rich cultural heritage is showcased through its ancient temples , such as Uluwatu and Tanah Lot, and traditional dance performances.

Ubud, the cultural heart, offers art, yoga, and wellness retreats. Adventurers can go surfing, diving, and trekking.

Four days here can be a little too short because there are loads of things to do. But with good planning, you can visit 2 cities and still have an extra day to just chill at the beach.

MOVING AROUND : When you fly into Manila, hop on a domestic flight to Boracay (Caticlan) or Cebu. From Cebu, you can get on another plane to reach Palawan (fly to Coron or El Nido). When leaving the Philippines, you have to connect in Manila to reach Surabaya. To get ot Bali, there are lights from Surabaya directly yo Bali (Denpasar).

Itinerary #5: Singapore and Malaysia

This is my favourite itinerary for 2 weeks in Southeast regarding a perfect mixture of rugged and comfortable . It’s pretty easy to travel between two countries since they share a land border and direct flights.

Malaysia offers a classic Southeast Asia experience with its diverse culture, language, and food. On the other hand, Singapore offers fantastic shopping malls, skyscrapers, and ease of travel.

Challenge yourself by going on adventures in Malaysia, where you can visit Penang, Langkawi, and even the Cameron Highlands. Then, find your comfort in the bustling city of Kuala Lumpur and Singapore if you enjoy shopping and modern architecture.

Our compilation fo travel itineraries for 2 weeks in Singapaore and Malaysia will be perfect for you or the 2 weeks in Malaysia post.

2 images - Marina Sands and Merlion Statue in Singapore and 3D street art in Penang of two children on a bicycle

Singapore for 3 days

Arrive in Singapore, which is home to the best airport in the world – Changi Airport. It is such a busy hub, yet it offers comfort. Many flights are coming here, so you shouldn’t have difficulty getting a direct flight to Singapore from anywhere in the world.

In just 3 days, you can visit Marina Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Universal Studios, see the remarkable Merlion, and enjoy the food at Maxwell Food Centre for hawkers stands.

Kuala Lumpur for 4 days

You can take a bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, which is a 5-hour drive. You can also fly, but it might cost more.

Kuala Lumpur is known for its stunning skyscraper called Petronas Twin Towers – a beautiful spot for a panoramic view of the city and the Strait of Malacca. You can also go for a day trip to Genting Highlands and Port Klang.

It is a melting pot of cultures with tasty dishes from various regions in Asia . The city’s culinary scene reflects its diversity, offering a mouthwatering array of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisine. Don’t miss the bustling markets, trendy shopping malls, and vibrant nightlife.

Penang for 3 days

Penang Island, often called the “ Pearl of the Orient ,” is a cultural kaleidoscope in Malaysia. The island’s capital, George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting a rich colonial history, stunning temples, and vibrant street art.

Penang’s street food, influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Indian cuisines, is legendary. The island’s picturesque beaches and lush green hills complement the cultural treasures, making Penang a diverse and captivating destination.

Langkawi for 4 days

Langkawi Island, often dubbed the “ Jewel of Kedah, ” is a tropical paradise in Malaysia. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush rainforests, Langkawi is perfect for relaxation and adventure.

The island’s cable car and Sky Bridge offer breathtaking views of the surrounding archipelago.

This island is duty-free. This means it’s more affordable than any place or city in Malaysia, especially regarding alcohol and imported brands. Apart from that, there are also mangroves to visit that you can kayak through or do exciting water activities such as parasailing and boat tours.

MOVING AROUND : From Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, you can either take the bus or fly. You can reach Penang from KL by bus or plane, Then from Penang to Langkawi, you can take a 4-hour ferry or book a domestic flight.

Itinerary #6: Thailand and Laos

If you only have 2 weeks in Southeast Asia, can you blame a person for wanting to visit Thailand?

This itinerary is perfect for people who want to do lots of hiking, thrilling activities, and be around nature . Northern Thailand has some fantastic hiking trails, while Laos offers incredible forests and exciting excursions such as wild swimming, ziplining, and water rafting.

Crossing the borders between Thailand and Laos is quite straightforward as well . Apart from taking a short flight, there are lots of land border points that you can cross by bus, motorbike, or even boat.

If you only want to go to Laos, we have an itinerary for 2 weeks in Laos that you can check out.

2 images - a temple on Chiang Mai and Kuang Si Falls in Laos

I have been to Bangkok at least 10x. It’s a mixture of travelling around Thailand and taking a long connection before my next flight. And every time I go there, I always find something new to do. It’s really a fantastic hub for Southeast Asia.

You can visit Bangkok for a blend of traditional Thai culture and modern charm . If you’re into culture, explore the magnificent Grand Palace to immerse yourself in spirituality at temples like Wat Arun.

Shop at bustling markets and contemporary malls where you’ll also find tasty local dishes or unwind with a traditional Thai massage. It’s so easy to spend 3 days in Bangkok or even a week.

Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai for 4 days

It’s time to leave the busy city of Bangkok and find a relaxing atmosphere – to the mountains! Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, nestled in Northern Thailand, are havens for those seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures.

With a laid-back atmosphere, these cities boast serene temples, lush mountains, and aromatic coffee plantations.

The temperate climate makes activities like hiking and trekking more fun. For people who are into yoga or meditation, there are loads of retreats that you can sign up for. And of course, there are still lots of temples to check out and admire.

Luang Prabang for 3 days

Enter Laos by starting your trip to Luang Prabang. With its gilded temples, saffron-robed monks, and charming French colonial architecture, it’s like a page torn from a fairy tale.

Take a cruise down the Mekong River or hike Mount Phousi for an unforgettable sunset. Finish the day by visiting the night markets for some souvenirs or trying out Laotian delicacies. Don’t forget to head to Kuang Si Falls to enjoy a refreshing dip and go wild swimming.

Vang Vieng for 2 days

Vang Vieng is your gateway to untamed beauty and for those looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Located between the stunning karst landscapes, this vibrant town is a great city escape.

Go on a tubing expedition , which is the number one activity here or ride a hot air balloon for a scenic view of Laos.

Vientiane for 2 days

Vientiane is the capital of Laos, offering a mixture of colonial and modern beauty. Walk along the Mekong River or go on a cruise to see the stunning sunset. You should also visit the beautiful temples like Pha That Luang and Buddha Park.

The city’s culinary scene is very interesting. It’s the Orient cuisine with a French twist . From ancient heritage to lively markets and delectable food, it’s a perfect way to end your 2 weeks in Southeast Asia.

MOVING AROUND : From Bangkok, you can take a train, bus, or fly to Chiang Mai. Flying would be the fastest way, while the bus is the most affordable choice. There are minibuses that will take you between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Then, a combination of a bus and boat from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang, through crossing the Huay Xai. A minivan ride or train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. Then Vang Vieng to Viantiane is a short minivan ride.

Itinerary #7: Borneo

When thinking of 2 weeks in Southeast Asia, Borneo doesn’t really come up as the first destination in mind. However, it’s definitely wroth a visit.

Borneo is divided into three countries; Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. This is a great itinerary for travellers who love nature and want to explore Southeast Asia through hiking, visiting national parks, and seeing wild animals.

One thing you have to remember, though is Borneo is a tricky place to visit.

If you go during the dry season, you’re most likely able to enjoy the hike without getting on muddy trails, and the weather is cooler, but it also means the colours are not too vibrant.

If you come during the rainy season, the forest is more alive, but there’s a chance the hiking trails are closed due to mudslides.

The best time to go is at least a month after the rainy season . During this time, the forest is still lush green, but the soil has likely dried up, and the trails are open to the public again.

2 images - Omar Ali Saiffuddien Mosque in Brunei and Proboscis Monkey from Borneo

Sandakan for 3 days

Sandakan is where you want to go if you want to see Proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and other wild animals from Borneo. There’s also a turtle sanctuary which is perfect for visiting in October since it’s the “setting off to the water” season for baby turtles.

You might have to arrive in Kuala Lumpur or Kota Kinabalu, then take a bus or fly to Sandakan.

Kota Kinabalu for 3 days

If you’re ready to hike, Mount Kinabalu is the first place to go. It is home to various flora and fauna and home to many wild orangutans.

It’s recommended to stay at least 1 night here and must come with a local guide for safety reasons. It can be done in one day, but you must start early as it can take a total of 12 hours or more, and you don’t want to be caught in the dark.

After that, you can enjoy Kota Kinabalu town proper, where you can visit historical sites and cultural locations such as Mari Mari Cultural Village and Sabah State Museum. Finish your visit by catching a sunset at Tanjung Aru Beach.

Labuan for 3 days

Labuan is a federal territory of Malaysia. This means they have their own government and policy but generally align with Malaysia. It’s an island, so you can either reach it by ferry or take a quick flight. Labuan is rich in history and exciting water activities.

Explore World War II relics, frolic on pristine beaches, and revel in thrilling water sports. If you like diving or snorkelling, don’t miss a trip to the Labuan Marine Park and visit Kuraman, Rusukan Besar, and Rusukan Kecil.

Brunei for 3 days

Continue heading down south and reach the country of Brunei. Keep in mind, this is a Muslim country; hence alcohol is not sold here and can easily be found.

Most attractions are located in the capital city, Bander Seri Begawan. But if you want to explore nature, go to Bukit Ladan Forest or Labi Forest.

Sarawak for 2 days (Sibu or Kuching)

For your final place on the itinerary, the Sarawak region of Brunei is the destination. Sarawak is the dazzling jewel of Borneo. With its lush rainforests, stunning caves like Niah and Mulu, and enchanting tribal cultures, Sarawak is an adventurer’s destination .

If you’re visiting during the right season, you can attend the Sarawak Rainforest Music Festival. During this event, you can get up close with orangutans and savour the rich flavours of the local cuisine.

From longhouse stays to jungle treks, Sarawak is an amazing place to finish your 2 weeks in Southeast Asia adventure.

MOVING AROUND : You most likely have to arrive in Kota Kinabalu then catch another flight to Sandakan or take the bus. You can also start the trip in Kota Kinabalu, then go to Sandakan, then to Labuan on a flight. From Labuan, there’s a ferry that will take you to Brunei. Decide if you want to go to Sibu or Kuching. In that way, you’ll know which city to fly into or if you can take a bus..

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

Southeast Asia is easily one of my favourite regions in the world. It’s affordable, adventurious, rich in culture, offers the best cuisine, and is also an amazing place when it comes to exploring the wild nature.

2 weeks in Southeast Asia might not be enough to see and enjoy all its glory, but it’s a good start. If you find out in that 14-day trip that you enjoyed your time here, this just means you can always come back in the future and go somewhere else.

The final take I want you to get from this post is when choosing where to spend your limited time, make sure the places are near one another or have a direct bus or flight to save your time.

Also, research the weather in each country or island you’re visiting because the rainy season in the Philippines is very different compared to Indonesia, Thailand, and even Vietnam.

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Southeast Asia, with its rich tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine, offers an adventure for every traveler. From bustling cities to tranquil temples, it's a journey into diverse and vibrant worlds. via @twoweektraveller

Travel, Hiking, Food

2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary – 4 Itineraries and Routes

2 Week Southeast Asia Itinerary – 4 Itineraries and Routes

If you have only 2 weeks in Southeast Asia, check out these 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries for your perfect trip to see a combination of different places in SEA.

Southeast Asia is a vast and diverse region located in the south eastern region of Asia. Countries such as Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam are in Southeast Asia.

Although these countries are collectively called Southeast Asia, you will find vastly different history, culture, climates, terrain, religion, customs and food in each country, and even within each country!

It is impossible to have one itinerary for Southeast Asia especially if you are just there for two weeks. Therefore this blog will give you 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries and routes depending on what type of things you want to do and see.

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This blog contains occasional affiliate links, where I receive a small commission on sales of the products/hotels that are linked at no additional cost to you. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Why Should I Travel to Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia is probably one of the most diverse and interesting regions in the world.

Southeast Asia has about 680m people in the region, about 8.5% of the world’s population. There are about 1000 languages spoken in Southeast Asia and a number of different religions being practiced in Southeast Asia (Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, and others).

Since each country in Southeast Asia has its own history, religion, culture and lifestyle, you can expect to have a vastly unique experience in every country that you visit.

In terms of terrain, you will find lush rainforest, golden rice terrace, powerful waterfalls, awe-inspiring mountains and volcanoes, world renowned beaches and diving sites in Southeast Asia.

If you like food, you will have the opportunity to try different regional food in Southeast Asia. Rice is still the staple food in Asia, but that’s where similarity between each Southeast Asian country’s cuisine ends. Every country (and even provinces within the same country) has their own dishes, ingredients, cooking style and flavor.

If you like history and religion, then you are in luck. You will find ruins of ancient civilizations such as the Pyu civilization in Myanmar, the Khmer kingdoms in Cambodia, the ancient kingdoms in Thailand and Vietnam.

Therefore regardless of what you like to do and want to experience, you will find them in Southeast Asia.

How do I get to Southeast Asia?

Major cities in each of the Southeast Asia country has domestic and/or international airports.

Depending on where you are located, your travel time to Southeast Asia could be as short as two hours or as long as 30+ hours.

If you are traveling from within Asia, then chances are there are many direct flights to places you want to go in Southeast Asia.

But if you are located in North America like US and Canada, you are generally looking at 20+ hour travel time.

For the most part you will need to transit somewhere in Asia or the Middle East (like Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, Beijing (prior to the pandemic), and Dubai) before reaching your final destination in Southeast Asia. There are a few direct flights to Singapore but most likely not directly to other cities in Southeast Asia.

How to fly to southeast Asia - Eva airline Hello Kitty Plane

If you are traveling from South America, oh boy you are looking at a long travel time and will most likely transit in Europe once or twice before reaching Southeast Asia.

How Do I Get Around Southeast Asia?

Since Southeast Asia is huge and there are so many countries, how you get around really depends on the country itself.

But in general, you can fly between the countries and take train, buses, taxis (and ride share services) and rent a motorcycle to travel between cities in the same country.

Flying in Southeast Asia

If you are planning to travel between a different countries in Southeast Asia, you will need to fly. There are certain exceptions like between Singapore and Malaysia where you can cross the border by bus or even a ferry.

The good news is there are so many airlines that fly within Southeast Asia. Some are the national flag carriers like Singapore Airline , Vietnam Airline , Thai Airways , etc.

There are also popular budget airlines that can take you everywhere in Southeast Asia, such as Air Asia , Jetstar , Scoot , etc.

Taking the Train in Southeast Asia

Train travel is popular in Southeast Asia since it is cheap, safe and convenient. You will find both day time trains (with seats) and overnight sleeper trains (with beds).

In fact many tourists and backpackers such as myself prefer taking sleeper trains to travel within each country in Southeast Asia. These overnight trains can be luxury and can save you a lot of time and money since you won’t need one night hotel.

Hanoi Train Station - Vietnam Sleeper Train | How to get around Vietnam

You can read about my overnight train experience in Vietnam .

Train tickets can be booked at the train station in person, or online websites such as 12Go , which is my go to site to book transportation in Southeast Asia.

Taking the bus in Southeast Asia

Long distance buses are another popular mode of transportation in Southeast Asia. In fact buses might be even more popular than trains because it can cover more routes.

Sleeper Bus in Vietnam | Southeast Asia itinerary and travel guide

There are day time buses as well as overnight sleeper buses in Southeast Asia, including some very luxury overnight buses.

Again, buses are cheap and convenient so many tourist and locals use them to travel long distance within one country. Again, you can book them online on 12Go , go to the bus station, or even ask your hotel to help you book.

Traveling by taxi and luxury van in Southeast Asia

Taxi, especially private ones, are something you can book in Southeast Asia if you prefer not to take bus or train and you simply want customize your trip and not be restricted by the bus or train time.

luxury Van in Southeast Asia | The best Southeast Asia travel itinerary

For the most park you can ask your hotels to help you book taxis in advance. There are also websites like 12Go and Viator that you can use to book private transfers.

We took a lot of private transfers when we were in Southeast Asia; it just made things a lot easier and we could leave whenever we wanted.

Ride share apps in Southeast Asia

With the rise of ride sharing apps globally you can bet they are in Southeast Asia also.

The most popular ride sharing app in Southeast Asia is Grab , which works similarly to Uber and Lyft. You will need to download and set up the app ahead of time and you can use it immediately upon landing (if you have data). You may also find Go-Jek in Indonesia.

There is no Uber or Lyft in Southeast Asia, they exited the market number of years ago.

Certain countries and places in Southeast Asia banned Grab in order to protect local drivers, so be sure to check before you travel. Sometimes it is the best to book a taxi or private transfer with your hotel especially in places like Bali.

Renting a Motorbikes in Southeast Asia

If you are just doing short distance travel like a day trip, you can do it the local way and rent a motorbike in Southeast Asia.

There are many motorbike rental agencies throughout Southeast Asia in major cities and towns. You can also ask your hotel where to rent them.

This is probably the cheapest and easiest way to get around Southeast Asia and offers you plenty of flexibility on where to go. But you need to be careful as many foreign tourists do get into accidents riding Motorbikes in Southeast Asia.

When is the Best Time to Go To Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia generally has 2 seasons: dry season and rainy season. However this also depends on where exactly you are going in Southeast Asia.

Dry season typically is between December to April and rainy season runs between May to November , where you can experience downpour rains and flooding (again, depends on where you go). Sometimes even during rainy season there is only a couple of hours of heavy rain then you are good to go.

Since Southeast Asia is a large region, there are a lot of plenty of microclimates. Although most of Southeast Asia is near the Equator, there are regions that are more north, near the border of China that experience colder winters than regions south of the equator.

You should also aim to avoid burning season in Southeast Asia, during which local farmers burn crops to prepare for the upcoming cultivation. The burning season is usually during the colder dry season in February and March, but it could vary by region and year.

During burning season, you will experience bad air quality, haze and unclear sky.

Another time to avoid visiting Southeast Asia is to avoid large national or religious holidays , although this also varies by country.

But during certain holidays the stores and restaurants are closed and some holidays don’t even allow people to step outside of their residence. Be sure to research the particular country and region you are visiting to avoid these holidays.

Is Southeast Asia Safe, Especially For Female Solo Travelers?

In general, Southeast Asia is quite safe, even for female solo travelers. In fact many backpackers and solo travelers rave about how safe and nice it is to visit Southeast Asia for an extended period of time.

Of course as anywhere else in the world, you should always follow local etiquette, laws and customs. There is definitely petty crime in Southeast Asia but violent crimes are rare.

Keep in mind that Southeast Asia in general is quite conservative, and there are many religious sites that require you to dress moderately, covering knees and shoulders. You may want to think twice before wearing skimpy and revealing clothing as you may get some stares and disapproving looks from the locals.

One issue you may face in Southeast Asia is taxi scams or parking scams, so try to use Grab or use public transportation or ask your hotel/ hostel to book taxi for you to avoid being scammed.

Another concern in Southeast Asia is food safety; many foreign tourists do get food poisoning at least once when visiting Southeast Asia (I have gotten food poisoning once but I have been to Southeast Asia many times). Just try to eat at well established restaurants and popular spots. If something doesn’t look fresh, don’t eat it.

Where to go with two weeks in Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia Itinerary #1 : First time in Southeast Asia (Thailand & Singapore) Southeast Asia Itinerary #2 : Explore Malaysia & Singapore Southeast Asia Itinerary #3 : Off the Beaten Path (Laos & Northern Vietnam) Southeast Asia Itinerary #4 : Flavor of Everything (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)

Since Southeast Asia is a huge region, you cannot see everything in Southeast Asia because that would mean 1-2 days per country!

It is best to spend time in 1-2 countries during 14 days in Southeast Asia so you can get the most out of it (and not spend all your time flying around).

Southeast Asia is a region that you can keep coming back to since there are so much to see and do.

I will highly 4 different Southeast Asia itineraries to best fit your need. Keep in mind that these 4 itineraries mostly cover the part of Southeast Asia that’s on the Mainland.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #1 First time in Southeast Asia itinerary (Thailand & Singapore)

Day 1 – 3 : Bangkok, Thailand Day 4 – 8 : Chiang Mai, Thailand Day 9 – 12 : Thai Islands Day 13 – 14 : Singapore

If you are planning to visit Southeast Asia for the first time, then I would recommend going to the most popular Southeast Asian countries: Singapore and Thailand.

The reason I recommend Singapore is because the population speaks English, everything is very easy to navigate and it is extremely safe.

I also recommend going to Thailand if it’s your first time in Southeast Asia because Thailand has a very well established tourist infrastructure and there are many foreigner visitors and backpackers. Thailand also has a variety of things for you to do, including modern cities, beautiful temples and mountain areas as well as incredible beaches. It is very easy to travel around in Thailand so it’s a great first-time-in-SEA destination.

Day 1 – 3: Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the capital city of Thailand and it is one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia.

Lebua Hotel Bangkok

Bangkok is a very exciting city, it is a city where you will find historical sites, religious monuments, vibrant night life, interesting street markets, and much much more. It is also a great base for day trips to nearby towns and historical sites.

During your 3 days in Bangkok, there are plenty you can do! Also, just in case you are curious on how to save money on attractions, the Bangkok Explorer Pass covers most of the things you’d be interested in doing in Bangkok.

Grand Palace in Bangkok Thailand

Start off exploring the most famous sites in Bangkok, including the beautiful golden Grand Palace , walk to the nearby Wat Pho (golden leaning buddha), enjoy a river cruise down Chao Phraya River and explore Wat Arun for sunet.

Read Next : 2 Day Bangkok Itinerary and Travel Guide

You need to be dressed conservatively to visit Grand Palace and the religious sites, so your knees and shoulder must be covered. There are places to rent traditional clothing if you don’t have long pants or dress (I get it, it’s hot there!).

You can always book this tour to explore the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha Temple, Wat Pho, markets and Wat Arun together and save yourself the trouble of having to find ways to get to Wat Arun by yourself.

Khao San Road in Bangkok Thailand

For evening activities, you can check out Chinatown and the famous pedestrian street Khaosan Road , You can find tons of street food vendors, shops, bars and restaurant in both areas.

Muay Thai match in Bangkok Thailand

Watching Muay Thai match is also something to do at night, or you can simply get a Thai massage and relax (or get a massage everything!).

You can also check out fancy rooftop bars in Bangkok, such as Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel where they filmed Hangover 2 . Other nice rooftop bars include Moon Bar , Red Sky restaurant, Octave , SEEN , etc.

Bangkok Floating Market in Thailand

There are wonderful day trips from Bangkok to the world renowned Floating Market , or to visit temples in Ayutthaya or explore Samut Prakan Ancient City . The great thing is all of these day trips are covered by the Bangkok Explorer Pass !

Ancient City Bangkok Thailand

Other exciting things to do in Bangkok including doing a food tour to try all the street food as well as going to a cooking class to learn how to cook Thai food.

Most tours and cooking classes are included on the Bangkok Explorer Pass .

Day 4 – 8: Chiang Mai, Thailand

You can either take an 1 hour flight or a 13 hour train (or sleeper train) from Bangkok to Chiangmai, one of travelers’ favorite regions in Thailand.

Located in the mountainous region in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is the second largest city in Thailand. It was the capital city of the Lanna Kingdom, which is why you will find moats and city walls in Chiang Mai even today.

Chiang Mai may not be as modern and vibrant like Bangkok, but its slower pace, beautiful temples and its proximity to nature actually make it very unique and appealing for visitors.

With 3 to 4 days in Chiang Mai, you can do a lot both in Chiang Mai and nearby places.

You can start by visiting the old city, that is where you will find temples, museums, and interesting sites within the ancient city walls.

Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai

Since there are over 3000 temples in Chiang Mai, you can’t see them all. But you can see the best ones such as Wat Chiang Man , Wat Chedi Luang , Wat Lok Moli , Wat Sri Suphan , Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan , etc.

chiang-Mai-night-market

Continue your evening adventure to check out the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar , the night market at Wua Lai Walking Street , or even the Chang Phuak Gate Night Market for authentic street food or if you just want to buy clothing and souvenirs. Just be sure to use a lot of bug spray as the mosquitoes can be aggressive.

Wat Pha Lat in Chiang Mai

Outside of Chiang Mai city center, there are even more things to see. You can take the Monk’s trail to the famous Wat Pha Lat , visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep , see the city from the observation deck, continue up to visit Doi Suthep , Hmong Doi Pui Village . Or take a taxi or a tour if you do not want to hike up or ride a scooter up yourself.

If you like nature, you can do visit Doi Inthanon National Park or hike and bike in Doi Suthep Pui National Park .

Zip lining in Chiangmai Thailand

If you enjoy adventure, then be sure to not miss zip lining adventure and white water rafting .

If you like animals, you can visit Tiger Kingdom , elephant sanctuary where you can bathe and feed elephants or a night safari in Chiang Mai. You can even stay at Chai Lai Orchid Eco Lodge where you can have elephant visit your room.

Lastly, if you really want to visit the iconic white temple in Chiang Rai, you can do a day trip from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai.

Chiang Rai white temple in Thailand Southeast Asia | The Best Southeast Asia itinerary

Day 9 – 12: Thai Islands

When you think of white sand beach, crystal clear water, wonderful snorkeling and vibrant night life, islands in Thailand check all the boxes.

From Chiang Mai, fly down to Phuket, the gateway to the islands in Thailand.

Phuket boat in Thailand

If you want, you can spend all 3 days in Phuket and do day trips to Phi Phi Island, the famous “ the Beach ” and James Bond Island or do a snorkeling tour to Similan Islands .

Phuket is where most people stay, since it is cheaper than staying on some of the islands, easy to get to from the airport, has a ton of hotels, restaurants, bars and night time entertainment.

But I actually would advise you to stay on some of the islands for a nicer and quieter experience. Islands like Phi Phi, Krabi, Koh Lanta offer a different experience and there are budget to 5 star hotels on these islands.

Phi Phi Island in Thailand

These islands are also not far from Phuket by boat, so you can easily travel there from Phuket. I particularly loved Phi Phi island and its view point hike, where you can get a postcard perfect view from above.

Krabi Thailand | The best Thailand itinerary

If you want both beach and nature, then Krabi is a wonderful choice, where you can enjoy the beautiful beach and hike the famous Monkey Trail and Dragon’s Crest. Of course you can also take boat tours from Krabi to visit other beautiful islands, sand bars, islets, etc.

Day 13 – 14 : Singapore

Singapore skyline

Last but not least, Singapore! Singapore is only a short flight away from Phuket, and it is well connected to large international airports around the world, making it the perfect last stop of your 2 week Southeast Asia itinerary.

Singapore is a small city-state at the tip of Southeast Asia mainland. Although it’s very small in size, it is the third most dense in population in the world (after Macau and Monaco).

Some people say Singapore is an adult’s Disneyland; it is beautiful, modern, clean, safe and just amazing in general. It gives you a very different vibe than what you get in Thailand and any other Southeast Asian country.

Although Singapore is small, there is a lot to do. If you have watched the movie Crazy Rich Asians , you may be familiar with some of the iconic places in Singapore. But if you haven’t, don’t worry, you will find out the famous places in the next few paragraphs.

With only 2 days in Singapore, you will have to prioritize what you want to see and experience.

Marina Bay Sands evening light show

The most famous sites in Singapore include the Merlion Statue (the symbol of Singapore), Marina Bay Sands (casino + famous Infinity Pool for guests), Gardens by the Bay , Singapore Botanic Gardens , Singapore Flyer (Giant ferris wheel), Singapore Zoo , Cable Car and Sentosa (Island resort with beach, waterpark, Universal Studios), Chinese Garden .

Gardens by the Bay in Singapore

If you are into Museums, Singapore has the National Museum of Singapore, National Gallery Singapore, Asian Civilisations Museum.

Important religious sites include the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Sultan Mosque

Masjid Sultan Mosque in Singapore

Of course don’t forget the Instagram spots in Singapore such as Fort Canning Park, Lory Loft at Jurong Birdpark, the colorful Little India, the Peranakan Houses, and the Jewel Changi Airport itself!

You also cannot leave Singapore without having eaten at a hawker center, open-air complexes with food stalls and don’t forget to grab a beer at Clarke Quay and enjoy the night scene there. Overwhelmed by all the food choices or simply not sure what to eat? Don’t worry, this food tour will take you to the best spots in Singapore!

There are also many fun tours you can take in Singapore, like biking tours , kayaking tour, Singapore River Cruise , hop on hop off bus, and the round trip cable car experience.

The great news is that many attractions and tours in Singapore are Covered by the Singapore attraction pass so you can save a lot of money!

Southeast Asia Itinerary #2: Explore Malaysia & Singapore

Day 1 – 2 : Singapore Day 3 – 5 : Kuala Lumpur Day 6 – 7: Cameron Highlands Day 8 – 10 : Penang Day 11 – 14 : Redang Island or Langkawi

If you have already been to Thailand before or you prefer somewhere different, then I would highly recommend exploring Malaysia.

Malaysia is a large country with a lot of history, culture and different landscape. In Malaysia you will find delicious food, white sand beaches, beautiful tea terraces and mountains as well as modern cities.

Day 1 – 2: Singapore

Start your 2 week Southeast Asia adventure in Singapore and follow Itinerary #1 to explore the highlights of Singapore.

Day 3 – 5: Kuala Lumpur

It is quite easy to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore. You can either take a 5 hour bus or take an 1 hour flight. Buses are more frequent and cheaper if you are on a budget, but note that sometimes bus arrives 1-2 hours later than expected, which could cut into your travel time.

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. It is where you will find a mixture of tradition and modernity. Kuala Lumpur has some of the most famous sights in Malaysia, such as Petronas Towers , which was featured in the blockbuster movie Entrapment.

In addition, KL is culturally rich with multiple religions. Although the official religion of Malaysia is Islam, but you will find Buddhist, Christian and Hindu communities in KL.

Petronas Towers in KL, Malaysia

With 2-3 days in KL (depending on when you arrive if you are taking the bus), you can see a lot. Explore the beautiful central KLCC area , where you will find upscale shopping malls, restaurants, gardens, Aquaria KLCC (Aquarium) and the famous Petronas Towers. You can also go up Menara Kuala Lumpur observation deck to have a sweeping view of the city.

Be sure to check out Merdeka Square , where the first Malaysia Flag raising took place on August 31, 1957. Then move onto Central Market and Chinatown and Petaling Street Market for local shopping and food.

One of the best things you can do if you like food is to take a street food tour . This tour lets you sample over 15 dishes and snacks in KL so you don’t have to wonder what’s the best thing to eat!

Thean Hou Temple in KL Malaysia | Where to go in Southeast Asia

Other important landmarks in Kuala Lumpur include the National Mosque , Perdana Botanical Garden, Thean Hou Temple, Bukit Bintang (and Jalan Alor street for food), and various museums . You can easily explore KL with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus .

Batu Caves in Malaysia

You may also be interested in day trips to the famous Batu Caves that is all over social media.

Day 6 – 7: Cameron Highlands

If you want to get away from the busy (and often times hot) KL, then Cameron Highlands would be the perfect escape.

Located only about 3-4 hours by bus, Cameron Highlands is located in the mountainous region in central Malaysia. Cameron Highlands was “discovered” by British geologist William Cameron during the British rule and became an agricultural area. Nowadays, Cameron Highlands is one of the most popular tourist spots in Malaysia.

Cameron Highlands in Malaysia

Given its location in the mountains, Cameron Highlands experience cooler weather and is known for its tea plantations, hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes, mossy forests, etc.

The main town in Cameron Highlands is Tanah Rata, your bus will drop you off here and you will find a ton of hotels and restaurant in Tanah Rata.

Cameron Highlands Butterfly Farm

Some of the best things in Cameron Highlands include hiking the Jungle Trails , visiting Boh Tea Estate and strawberry farms , walking through the Mossy Forest , visiting local tribe villages , butterfly farms and lavender gardens .

You can ask your hotel to book you a taxi, hike around, or take a tour (and explore other parts by taxi or walking) to explore Cameron Highlands. I really loved the tea plantation and Cameron Highlands is probably my favorite area in Malaysia.

Day 8 – 10: Penang

From Cameron Highlands, you can take a 4-5 hour bus ride to the food capital of Malaysia, Penang.

Penang is the birthplace of Malaysian Street Food and is one of the best places to eat in Malaysia. Therefore you can bet there will be a lot of eating, cooking classes and food tours you can do in Penang.

But food is not the only thing you will find in Penang, you will also find arts, temples, historical houses, national park and beach.

Penang George Town Street Art

Start your Panang journey exploring the UNESCO old town of George Town . You may have seen beautiful murals of George Town all over Instagram, and here is where you will find them. Wander around the old town of George Town is one of the best ways to discover beautiful street arts and murals.

Penang Little India

As you explore George Town, don’t forget to check out Chew Jetty , the colorful Penang Little India , Pinang Peranakan Mansion , Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower , Fort Cornwallis , and Chulia St , known for its street food and hawker stalls.

If you have time, go up the TOP Penang to enjoy a bird’s eye view of Penang Island.

Penang hill view in Malaysia

Another popular destination in Penang is Penang Hill , where you can enjoy some hiking (or taking the funicular) up to the 360 degree observation deck for an amazing view of Penang and the surrounding sceneries.

There are restaurants, a gallery, eco-tourism discovery center, temple and other attractions to check out at Penang Hill.

Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang Malaysia

Near Penang Hill is Kek Lok Si Temple , a colorful hilltop Buddhist temple. It is one of the most important temples to visit in Penang. You also get beautiful view of the city from this temple. You can also visit Penang Botanic Gardens if you have time.

Other things to do in Penang include visiting Fruit Farms or spend a day in Penang National Park for some hiking, canopy walk and beach.

Day 11 – 14: Redang Island or Langkawi

When you are done with urban and forest and nature, it is time to move to the beach.

Malaysia has really amazing beach and I dare say the best beach I have ever been to was in Malaysia.

For beach you have two options. If you want to minimize travel time then you can visit the famous Langkawi , an archipelago off Malaysia’s northwest coast.

Langkawi Beach in Malaysia

If you want to avoid the crowd and go somewhere different (and perhaps more pristine), then make your way across Malaysia to the west side of the country to go to Redang Island .

Langkawi is easy to reach from Penang, you can take an one hour flight or 3 hour ferry from Georgetown.

Redang Island white sand beach

Redang Island requires either a flight (via KL) or a long distance bus and ferry which pretty much takes the entire day.

You can’t really go wrong with either option but I really do think Redang Island has a much more pristine beach . Redang Island is a lot smaller than Langkawi so Langkawi has more variety in terms of accommodations, restaurants and things to do. But if you just want to relax on an amazing beach and do some snorkeling then Redang Island is the obvious winner.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #3: Off the Beaten Path (Laos & Northern Vietnam)

Day 1 – 3 : Luang Prabang Day 4 : Vientiane Day 5 : Hanoi Day 6- 7 : Halong Bay Day 8 – 10 : Ha Giang or Sapa Day 11 – 13 : Cao Bang Day 14 : Hanoi

If you want to explore places that are not as frequented by visitors, then Laos and Northern Vietnam would be a good choice.

You will be able to to enjoy some unspoiled nature and have a more authentic experience.

Day 1 – 3: Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the ancient capital of Laos and later became a French colony. In Luang Prabang you will find a mixture of traditional Lao and French influenced architecture.

Ever since its opening up for tourism in 1989, Luang Prabang has become an unique destination in Southeast Asia. It is not as famous or popular as many other Southeast Asian cities but you will find an even more interesting experience.

Wat Xieng Thong Laos

Luang Prabang is now an UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the old town, you will find beautiful temples such as Wat Xiengthong , Wat Mai , Wat Sensoukharam , visit the Royal Palace museum , participate in an Alms Giving Ceremony (starting at 5:30am), chill at a cafe by the Mekong River, check out food in the Night Market , and ride a Mekong River cruise to enjoy the sunset.

Mount Phou Si in Laos

Without leaving Luang Prabang, you should also pay a visit to Mount Phousi . You can climb up for sunset or simply just to enjoy the view from the top.

Kuang Si Falls in Luang Prabang Laos

One of the most famous sites near Luang Prabang is the 3 tiered waterfall, Kuang Si Waterfalls . It is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists and you can take a dip in the turquoise pool.

Other places to visit near Luang Prabang include Tad Sae Waterfall (+ Kayaking tour ), Pak Ou Caves (over 4000 Buddha statues), Nahm Dong Park (nature reserve with zip line and cooking class).

Day 4: Vientiane

Vientiane is the capital city of Laos and similar to Luang Prabang, you will find a mix of French colonial architecture with traditional Laos architecture and temples.

I only suggest one day in Vientiane as a transit center before you go to Vietnam and see some of the best sights.

Patuxai Victory Monument in Vientiane, Laos

Since you only have one day in Vientiane, I would suggest checking out the famous gold-covered Buddhist stupa Pha That Luang , followed by a visit to Patuxai Victory Monument , the arc de triomphe of Vientiane.

Phat That Luang Vientiane Laos

Other things to check out in Vientiane include the Talat Sao Morning Market , Wat Sisaket , Ho Phrakeo Museum , Wat Si Muang , Chao Anouvong Park and end the night in Vientiane Night Market .

You can take a short evening flight from Vientiane to Hanoi to start your Vietnam adventure next.

Day 5: Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and it is probably one of the most charming cities in Vietnam.

You will most likely stay at and explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi. You can certainly spend longer than a day in Hanoi if you decide to skip on some of the other items on the itinerary.

I do find that although there is a lot to see in Hanoi, I personally prefer to simply walk around Old Quarter, find a cute cafe to try Vietnamese coffee, people watch and try local food.

However, if you do want to take advantage of your first full day in Hanoi, you can certainly check out some of the most famous sites, such as the Train Street , Temple of Literature , Hoan Kiem Lake (and Ngoc Son Temple ), the night market , Ta Hien Beer Street (super lively at night).

Again, I think the charm of Hanoi is really to relax, enjoy coffee and food and people watch!

Best Tours to Take in Hanoi Given your limited time in Hanoi, if you want to experience Hanoi in an authentic way, there are a few tours you should take! Food Tour is something you simply cannot miss when visiting Hanoi! Want to try all the local food and fruits? This is the best tour for foodies. If you want to see the major sites in Hanoi and don’t want to bother with taking a Grab, then you would really enjoy this half day tour of Hanoi to visit all the famous sites I mentioned above.

Day 6- 7: Halong Bay

If this is your time in Vietnam, then one of the must-do activities near Hanoi is to do a Halong Bay cruise.

There are day cruises, 2 day 1 night cruises as well as 3 day 2 night cruises. If you just want a taste of Halong Bay while enjoying a relaxing holiday after the hustling and bustling of Hanoi, then 2 day 1 night Halong Bay cruise is the perfect choice.

There are cruises for every budget, some can be as cheap as $100 and some are as expensive as $1000+ a room per night.

Halong Bay Cruise

Some of the most luxurious Halong Bay cruises now include  Emperor Cruise ,  Orchid Cruise ,  Stellar of the Sea Cruise ,  Heritage Cruise . These cruises have spacious rooms, balconies, beautiful bathtub with floor to ceiling windows, and incredible service and food.

A typical 2 day 1 night Halong Bay Cruise itinerary include the following:

Day 1 of Halong Bay Cruise

  • 8am: pick up from Hanoi
  • 12pm: boarding the cruise
  • 1-2pm: lunch
  • 2-4pm: activities (kayaking, cave, small hike, swimming, etc – every cruise is slightly different)
  • 4-6pm: happy hours
  • 6pm: Dinner
  • 7-9pm: Squid fishing

Day 2 of Halong Bay Cruise

  • 6-7am: Tai Chi & Cooking class
  • 8am: Breakfast
  • 9am: Kayaking
  • 10:30am: back on shore to check out
  • 3pm: Back in Hanoi

Once you are back in Hanoi, you can continue your sightseeing before taking a sleeper bus to Ha Giang.

See my complete Halong Bay Cruise Guide to decide if it’s worth taking a Halong Bay cruise.

Day 8 – 10: Ha Giang or Sapa

You may have seen photos of beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam, in fact they are the main reason why I decided to go to Northern Vietnam!

Most people may have heard of Sapa, known for its rice terrace, but did you know that there are other places in Northern Vietnam that have beautiful rice terrace without the crowd? Ha Giang is one of the off the beaten track places in Northern Vietnam that is known for its dramatic landscape and rice terrace.

If you prefer to go to a place that has a more established tourist infrastructure , then you probably will like Sapa . But if you prefer a more quiet, less touristy but still beautiful place to see rice terrace, then I would highly recommend Ha Giang .

Ha Giang rice terrace

Both Sapa and Ha Giang require you to depart from Hanoi. For Sapa you can take an overnight train or sleeper bus from Hanoi. To get to Ha Giang you will need to take a bus (day time or overnight). You can book transportation from Hanoi to Sapa or Ha Giang on 12go .

If you decide to go to Ha Giang, the most famous thing to do there is the Ha Giang Loop (best done on the back of a motorbike) , which requires 3 days minimum.

Ha Giang Loop Vietnam

During the 3-5 days you spend on the Ha Giang Loop, you will come across many different villages, rice paddies, tea fields, waterfalls, caves and view points. You will most likely be staying at homestay at different villages during your Ha Giang Loop ride.

If this does not sound appealing to you or you cannot ride a motorbike or just don’t have the time, then Sapa may be a better option for you than Ha Giang.

Sapa has gained its popularity among tourists in the recent years. It has developed so fast that you will find many tour groups (and individual tourists) everywhere in Sapa.

3 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Sapa if you are thinking about trekking.

If you are taking an overnight train or sleeper bus from Hanoi, you will arrive early in the morning in Lao Cai (train station) or Sapa town. You can spend the first day visiting Cat Cat Village and Fansipan , the highest peak Vietnam. I recommend visiting Fansipan later in the day as it is more likely to become clear but check the weather forecast before you go.

Sapa trekking in Vietnam

On the 2nd day of your Sapa trip, you can do two day one night trekking with a guide . During trekking you will have an opportunity to trek in the rice terrace, visit Hmong villages, do an overnight stay at a homestay, visit bamboo forest and waterfalls before coming back to Sapa on the third day.

Or alternatively you can do a one day trekking and spend day 3 explore the various photo spots in Sapa Town .

Take an afternoon bus back to Hanoi on the third day.

Day 11 – 13: Cao Bang

Cao Bang is located in northern Vietnam, on the border of Vietnam and China. It is most famous for the Ban Gioc Waterfall, a tiered waterfall that is located within both Vietnam and China.

If you visited Ha Giang, you can travel from Ha Giang directly to Cao Bang by motorcycle albeit it is a long ride.

If you went to Sapa, then you will have to return to Hanoi first and then travel by bus or taxi from Hanoi to Cao Bang. It is about a 6-8 hour drive from Hanoi to Cao Bang and best done on an overnight sleeper bus (this means you can explore Hanoi during the day!).

Mat Than Mountain in Cao Bang Vietnam

Some of the best things to do in Cao Bang include Ban Gioc Waterfall , Nguom Ngao Cave (Tiger Cave), drive or hike to see the Me Pia Pass , check out Cao Bang city center , go to other smaller waterfalls and visit Mat Than Mountain .

Ban Gioc Waterfall in Cao Bang, Vietnam

If you prefer the convenience of having a tour instead of taking sleeper buses, you can book a 2 day one night tour to Cao Bang from Hanoi and not have to worry about transportation.

Day 14: Hanoi or Ninh Binh

Depending on how long you spend in Cao Bang, on your last day of this 14 day Southeast Asia itinerary, you can either spend the day in Hanoi or do a day trip to Ninh Binh (assuming you do not have a flight to catch).

If you decide to stay and explore Hanoi, you can check out the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , Quan Thanh Temple , Imperial Citadel , One Pillar Pagoda and Hanoi Opera House .

If you are really ambitious, you can do a day trip to Ninh Binh, one of the most beautiful places in Northern Vietnam in my opinion.

Ninh Binh is known as Ha Long Bay on land and it is not hard to see why people have Ninh Binh high on their list. You will find limestone peaks, rice paddies, river valleys and ancient pagodas in Ninh Binh.

Mua Cave Ninh Binh Vietnam

Like this dress? You can purchase it on Etsy .

Some of the best places to see in Ninh Binh in one day include Mua Cave , Bich Dong Pagoda , Tam Coc Boat Ride . If you have more time, you can check out Bai Dinh Pagoda and the 3 hour Trang An Boat Ride but you won’t be able to do everything I mentioned here in one day.

Vietnam Ninh Binh Bich Dong Pagoda

If you decide to go to Ninh Binh without a tour, you can take an early morning bus or luxury van and rent a scooter or a private taxi to get around Ninh Binh.

Trang An Boat ride

Alternatively, you can take this tour to see Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Mua Cave, Bich Dong Pagoda and take the Tam Coc boat ride.

Or if you want something different, this tour  will take you to Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Cave and Trang An Boat Ride.

Bai Dinh Pagoda | Best Vietnam itinerary

No matter what you choose, you will be blown away by the beauty of Northern Vietnam.

Southeast Asia Itinerary #4: Flavor of Everything (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam)

Day 1 – 3 : Bangkok Day 4 – 6 : Phuket & Islands Day 7 – 9 : Angkor Wat Day 10 – 12 : Hoi An Day 12 – 14 : Hue

If you really cannot decide where to go in Southeast Asia for 2 weeks, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. We will do everything.

Day 1 – 3: Bangkok

Fly into Thailand and start your 14 day Southeast Asia adventure in Bangkok.

Wat Paknam in Bangkok Thailand

Some of the best temples to check out in Bangkok include Wat Pho , the Temple of Emerald Buddha , Golden Mount Temple (Wat Saket), Wat Traimit , Wat Arun and Wat Paknam (featuring a towering stupa).

Other sites not to be missed in Bangkok is the Grand Palace , river cruise , China Town , Lhong 1919 , Khao San Road . Checking out fancy shopping centers like ICON Siam and Siam Paragon , grabbing a drink at rooftop bars and getting a Thai Massage are all unforgettable experiences to have in Bangkok.

Bangkok Floating Market 2

You can also do day trips outside of Bangkok to the floating market (or combine with Maeklong Railway Market ), Ancient City , Bubble in the Forest Cafe if you want the instagram shot, and visit temples in Ayutthaya .

Most tours and day trips from Bangkok are included in the Bangkok Explorer Pass .

Day 4 – 6: Phuket & Islands

After visiting the lively Bangkok, it is time to fly to the islands and relax.

Whether you spend all 3 days in Phuket and do day trips to Maya Bay and James Bond Island or stay on Phi Phi or Krabi, you will have a good time.

Day 7-9: Angkor Wat

You really cannot go to Southeast Asia without stopping by Angkor Wat, one of the most famous archaeological remains in Southeast Asia.

Angkor Wat is a large temple complex built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th Century. In fact it is the largest religious monument in the world as it occupies more than 400 acres.

Angkor Wat in the morning in Cambodia | Best Southeast Asia itinerary

It is the top tourist attraction in Cambodia and it’s not hard to see why. Its historical and religious significance, beautiful architecture and the intricate stone carving are all reasons to visit.

You will need to fly into Siem Reap in order to access Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat Ta Phrom Temple | Where to go in Southeast Asia

Although Angkor Wat is the main attraction in Siem Reap, there are other things to do before your big day in Angkor Wat. The day before you can do a cooking class , stop by Angkor National Museum , visit one of the temples for sunsets (I recommend Pre Rup or Phnom Bakheng ) and grab a drink on Pub Street and get a masage.

You will need entrance ticket for Angkor Wat , and they are either 1 day ($37), 3 days ($62) or 7 days ticket ($72). Unless you plan to see Angkor Wat 3 days in a row, I think 1 day ticket is enough. You can even visit Phnom Bakheng for sunset the day before without having to buy another Angkor Wat ticket.

Angkor Wat will take the whole day to visit and sunrise at Angkor Wat is spectacular. You will need to go super early to get the best spot. Be sure to buy the Angkor Wat ticket ahead of time before your visit if you want to go for sunrise.

You can visit Angkor Wat by yourself or get a guide . We got a guide and it was very useful to hear the stories and histories of the various spots in Angkor Wat and we saw other temples in the complex as well.

Besides Angkor Wat, other things you can do in and near Siem Reap include visiting a floating village , Kulen Mountain National Park , Kok Ker & Beng Mealea temple , and watch a Cambodian circus.

Day 10 – 12: Hoi An

After visiting Angkor Wat, you will head to Da Nang, Vietnam.

Da Nang is the gateway to Central Vietnam and given the time restraint, you will visit two of the most famous cities in Central Vietnam.

First stop is Hoi An, an UNESCO World Heritage Old Town about an hour by car from Da Nang.

Hoi An Ancient Town | Best places to visit in Vietnam

Hoi An is a well preserved ancient town and in the old town, you will find streets lined with lanterns, historical monuments, museums, shops, restaurants and most importantly, tailors!

Vietnam Hoi An Ba Mu Temple | Southeast Asia itinerary and travel guide

With only 2 days in Hoi An, you will have plenty of time to explore the old town center; some of the best things to do and see in Hoi An ancient town include Japanese Covered Bridge , Old Houses of Tan Ky , Ba Mu Temple , Cantoneses Assembly Hall , Phac Hat Pagoda , Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien , Hoi An night market.

Hoi An lanterns

Hoi An is known for their tailors , so you can literally get a dress custom made for you within 24 hours. At night it is also really nice to walk around to see all the lanterns lit up or take a 20 minute boat ride on Thu Bon River.

If you do end up with more time in Hoi An, you can visit the beach, do a coconut boat tour , visit historical monument in My Son , do a day trip to Ba Na Hills for the Golden Bridge or take a day trip to Cham Islands .

Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills

Read Next : My complete Hoi An Itinerary and Travel Guide

Day 12 – 14: Hue

Another important city to visit in central Vietnam is Huế, the ancient Imperial City of Vietnam. So you can expect to find imperial palaces and emperors’ tombs in Hue.

You can take a bus or private taxi from Hoi An to Hue.

With 1.5 to 2 days in Hue, you can actually see all the best Hue tourist attractions.

Start your Hue adventure at the Imperial Citadel , the former residence of the imperial family. If there is time, stop by Thien Mu Pagoda and check out Dong Ba Market by Perfume River.

Hue Imperial Citadel in Vietnam

The next day you can start early to first visit the Thuy Tien Lake Abandoned Water Park if you want to grab a quick Instagram worthy photo.

Hue Vietnam Abandoned water park dragon spot

Then you can go tomb hopping as there are numerous tombs all around Hue. The 3 best ones that I’d recommend visiting are tombs of Emperor Khai Dinh , Emperor Minh Mang , and Emperor Tu Duc . If you have time, you can also see the tomb of Emperor Gia Long .

Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue Vietnam | What to do in Hue

If you want to save money on entrance fee, there are combo tickets you can buy at each of the location instead of buying individual tickets.

It’s best to rent a scooter to ride around Hue or hire a private taxi. Most of the tombs are located outside of the city itself so it would be difficult to try to use Grab to get a car when you are out there.

See my detailed 2 day Hue itinerary on what to do and eat in Hue , Vietnam.

Useful Resources to Plan Southeast Asia Itinerary

For transportation within Southeast Asia

  • 12go for train and bus booking
  • Grab app for getting taxis

For hotel booking within Southeast Asia

  • Booking.com or Agoda are the best resources for booking hotels
  • Hostelworld is great for booking hostels

For booking tours within Southeast Asia

  • Klook : Singapore based tour booking website with the most number of tours and budget prices
  • Getyourguide and Viator are also good websites to book tours

Other Practical Things to Know Before You Go to Southeast Asia

  • Be sure to check visa requirements for the different countries in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam (read my guide on how to get a Vietnam E-Visa )
  • It is best to take a no-fee ATM card (like the ones from Charles Schwab if you are American or Wise Card or Revolut no fee ATM cards for non-Americans) and take out cash from local ATMs to get the best exchange rate
  • Cash is king; even though most hotels take credit cards, many restaurants, vendors and attractions only take cash
  • Download and set up Grab app before you leave, it is the Uber of Southeast Asia
  • Download Whatsapp, it is the primary way to communicate with hotels, train/ cruise companies in Southeast Asia
  • You can buy sim cards at the airports for very cheap, but most may have a daily limit of how much data you can use
  • Be sure to have Plug Adapter when you go to Southeast Asia
  • You can buy most necessities in Southeast Asia (like toiletry, clothes, bug spray, etc) to save luggage space
  • You should definitely get an external battery for your phone especially if you take photos and videos on your phone.
  • Food poisoning could happen so be sure to eat at clean and legit restaurants and well cooked food; avoid ice if possible and buy bottled water (no tap water!)
  • Have bug spray with you at all times, the mosquitoes can be vicious if you go outside of winter months
  • Even though Southeast Asia is generally hot, if you are going to mountainous region, be sure to have layers with you

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  • Southeast Asia Itinerary for 3 Weeks: Best 5 Ideas in 2024

A 3-week Southeast Asia adventure is the perfect duration, allowing you to delve into the region's treasures without feeling rushed. Depending on your travel preferences, you can immerse yourself in the highlights of 2-4 countries.

With over 20 years of expertise in curating private tours, our seasoned travel advisors are eager to assist you in maximizing your three weeks in Southeast Asia. 

  • Where to Go in Your 3 Weeks in Southeast Asia
  • Itinerary #1: 3-Week to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
  • Itinerary #2: 21-Day Thailand and Vietnam Adventure Tour
  • Itinerary #3: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour for Couples
  • Itinerary #4: 3 Weeks to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Singapore

Itinerary #5: 3 Weeks to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Bali

How much is a 3-week trip to southeast asia, which countries to visit in southeast asia in 3 weeks.

For a 3-week trip to Southeast Asia, we recommend exploring Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia , as these are the most popular destinations for first-timers. A classic choice for a comprehensive 3-week journey in Southeast Asia is to combine these three countries, allowing you to delve into the rich culture, history, nature, cuisine, and beach experiences that the region offers.

For a more leisurely and in-depth tour, focusing on two countries like Thailand and Vietnam is an excellent option.

If you prefer a faster pace and are open to adding another country to your itinerary, consider options like Indonesia (Bali), Singapore, Laos, or Myanmar.

Let us know your interests and requirements, and our travel advisor can tailor-make a tour for you , whether it's an annual trip or a milestone celebration such as a birthday or anniversary.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary #1: 3 Weeks Southeast Asia Itinerary to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam (Classic)

Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia is the most popular and classic combination for a 3-week trip to Southeast Asia.

This itinerary encompasses almost all the quintessential elements of the region: splendid temples, gorgeous beaches, compelling history, amazing food, the Mekong Delta, and Buddhist culture.

Days 1–9: Vietnam

Days 1-2: Hanoi  Day 3-4: Halong Bay Days 4-5: Hoi An Days 6-7: Mekong Delta Days 8-9: Ho Chi Minh City

Days 1-2: Hanoi

Begin your adventure in the lively capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and vibrant street life. 

Day 3-4: Halong Bay

Cruise the stunning Halong Bay on Orchid Cruise, departing from typical group-tour boats . Kayak through hidden caves, bike along islets, and marvel at the limestone karsts.

Days 4-5: Hoi An

Head to the charming town of Hoi An. Experience the local way of life by paddling a traditional Vietnamese round basket boat and casting your net . In the evening, indulge in the flavors of Hoi An Ancient Town with an enchanting foodie walk .

Days 6-7: Mekong Delta

Journey to the Mekong Delta and explore the Cai Rang Floating Market, a vibrant cultural experience that provides a glimpse into traditional river life. Save time by taking a boat to the Cu Chi Tunnels , offering a unique perspective on this historical site.

Days 8-9: Ho Chi Minh City

Conclude your Vietnam exploration in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and indulge in a unique tuk-tuk ride through bustling streets.

Days 10–12: Cambodia

Days 10-12: Siem Reap 

Cambodia is a relatively small country. Siem Reap is the main tourist destination for the great Angkor Wat. In 3 days, besides Angkor Wat, you can visit some unique attractions like the Cambodian Landmine Museum, showing Cambodian efforts to clear land mines, and take an ox cart ride along a country road to really appreciate its rustic views.

Days 13–21: Thailand

Days 13-14: Bangkok Days 15-16: Chiang Mai Days 17-20:  An island (Phuket or Koh Samui)  Day 21: Departure

Days 13-14: Bangkok

Take a tuk-tuk ride, explore vibrant markets, and visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. Indulge in diverse street food for a taste of Thai culinary delights.

Days 15-16: Chiang Mai

Head to Chiang Mai and explore the Elephant Rescue Park, connecting with elephants in a conservation-focused environment. Find serenity in Wat Phra That Doi Suthep after the crowds disperse.

Days 17-20: An Island (Phuket or Koh Samui)

Escape to the pristine beaches of either Phuket or Koh Samui. Enjoy the island's beauty and tranquility, savoring the final days of your journey in a tropical paradise.

Day 21: Departure

Conclude your 21-day adventure.

Further reading:  The Best 3-Week Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Itineraries  

Itinerary #2: 21-Day Thailand and Vietnam Adventure Tour

This 21-day tour is suitable for  adventurous couples  wanting to explore the  rich history  of the dynasties of northern Thailand and the  local culture  of Vietnam via  a less-crowded route .

Starting with a land tour of Thailand's kingdom cities — Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, and Lampang, and proceeding to Vietnam's cultural areas — Hue, Hoi An, and Can Tho, this tour would enable you to step inside vibrant and very different cultures.

Days 1-10: Thailand

Days 1-2: Bangkok Day 3: Ayutthaya Days 4-6: Sukhothai Day 7:  Chiang Rai Day 8-10: Chiang Mai

Days 1-2: Bangkok

Begin your journey in the vibrant capital city of Bangkok. Dive into the bustling street life, explore ornate temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, and experience the contrast between modernity and tradition. Don't miss the vibrant street markets and the grandeur of the Grand Palace.

Day 3: Ayutthaya

A day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam, offers a glimpse into Thailand's historical past. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ayutthaya Historical Park, where you'll find impressive ruins, temples, and iconic Buddha statues.

Days 4-6: Sukhothai

Head to Sukhothai, another UNESCO-listed historical city. Immerse yourself in the well-preserved Sukhothai Historical Park, known for its stunning ancient temples, Buddha images, and serene surroundings. Biking through the park is a popular way to explore.

Day 7: Chiang Rai

Venture north to Chiang Rai, known for its unique and artistic temples. Visit the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a contemporary masterpiece, and explore the Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten). The city's charm lies in its blend of traditional and modern artistry.

Days 8-10: Chiang Mai

Conclude your journey in the cultural hub of Chiang Mai. Discover the Old City's ancient temples, participate in a traditional Thai cooking class, and experience the vibrant night markets. For adventure seekers, explore nearby mountains and visit an ethical elephant sanctuary.

Days 11-21: Vietnam

Days 11-12: Hanoi Days 13-14: Halong Bay Day 15: Hue Days 16-17: Hoi An Days 18-19: Mekong Delta Days 20-21: Ho Chi Minh

Days 11-12: Hanoi

Explore the vibrant capital with its historical Old Quarter, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the enchanting Water Puppet Theater.

Days 13-14: Halong Bay

Cruise through the stunning UNESCO-listed Halong Bay, surrounded by emerald waters and towering limestone karsts.

Day 15: Hue

Discover the imperial city of Hue, exploring the historic Imperial City, pagodas, and the serene Perfume River.

Days 16-17: Hoi An

Wander through the charming streets of Hoi An, known for its ancient architecture, lantern-lit evenings, and tailor shops. Experience a traditional basket boat ride and cast nets with a local fisherman as a guide.

Days 18-19: Mekong Delta

Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and waterways of the Mekong Delta, exploring floating markets and traditional villages.

Days 20-21: Ho Chi Minh

Conclude your journey in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, visiting historical landmarks and indulging in the vibrant street food scene.

Further reading:  How to Plan a Trip to Thailand and Vietnam  

Itinerary #3: 3-Week Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour for Couples

This tour is designed for couples who would like to have an in-depth Southeast Asia discovery experience at their own pace. It covers the most popular destinations with must-see sights and also some off-the-beaten-path places offering exclusive experiences in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. We would customize it for you.

Begin your adventure in the vibrant capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history, and explore the Old Quarter with a cyclo ride.

Cruise through the emerald waters of Halong Bay on a luxury, intimate-size overnight cruise (Emperor Cruise). Drift among picturesque limestone karsts, exploring caves and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Head to the charming town of Hoi An, known for its ancient architecture. Learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes in the herb village , stroll through lantern-lit streets, and explore tailor shops.

Venture to the Mekong Delta and travel aboard a private charter sampan . Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes, explore floating markets, and experience the local way of life.

Conclude your Vietnam leg in the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Indulge in a unique tuk-tuk ride, explore historical landmarks, and savor the vibrant street food scene.

Days 10–11: Cambodia

Days 10-11: Siem Reap

Cross over to Cambodia and explore the wonders of Siem Reap. Discover the ancient temples of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into the rich Khmer history.

Days 12–21: Thailand

Days 12-13: Bangkok Days 14-16: Chiang Mai Days 17-19: Khao Sok National Park Days 20-21:  Phuket

Days 12-13: Bangkok

Arrive in Thailand's capital, Bangkok, and take a tuk-tuk ride for a truly unique cultural experience. Explore vibrant markets, visit ornate temples, and soak in the city's dynamic atmosphere.

Days 14-16: Chiang Mai

Head north to Chiang Mai, where you'll feed and interact with elephants in Elephant Hill's exclusive camp . Join the locals in a morning alms-offering and explore the cultural richness of this northern city.

Days 17-19: Khao Sok National Park

Experience the unique beauty of Khao Sok National Park. Spend a night in a rainforest floating house and embark on a canoe safari, a gentle trek in the jungle, and a long-tail boat journey.

Days 20-21: Phuket

Conclude your journey in the tropical paradise of Phuket. Relax on stunning beaches, explore the vibrant nightlife, and soak in the beauty of this island paradise.

Further reading:  How to Plan a Trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam  

Itinerary #4: 3 Weeks Southeast Asia Itinerary to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Singapore 

This comprehensive itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and urban exploration, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded Southeast Asian journey.

Days 1–8: Vietnam  (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City)

Begin your odyssey in Vietnam, where the bustling streets of Hanoi welcome you to a tapestry of rich history and contemporary charm. Cruise through the iconic Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before immersing yourself in the timeless beauty of Hoi An.

Conclude your Vietnamese leg in the dynamic city of Ho Chi Minh, where history and modernity converge seamlessly.

Days 9–11: Cambodia (Siem Reap)

Venture into Cambodia and explore the captivating wonders of Siem Reap. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Angkor Wat, a UNESCO treasure, and delve into the ancient mysteries of the Angkor Thom complex. Siem Reap's cultural tapestry and archaeological marvels await your discovery.

Days 12–16: Thailand (Bangkok, Koh Samui)

The journey continues to Thailand, where the energetic pulse of Bangkok introduces you to a vibrant metropolis of temples, markets, and culinary delights. From the bustling capital, head to the tropical paradise of Koh Samui, where pristine beaches and lush landscapes invite relaxation and exploration.

Days 17–21: Singapore

In Singapore, feel the mix of different cultures by discovering ethnic enclaves — Chinese culture in Chinatown, Malay culture in Kampong Glam, and Indian culture in Little India.

This 3-week adventure promises a perfect blend of diverse experiences, from exploring ancient temples and bustling markets to relaxing on pristine beaches and immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian cultures.

  • Days 1–3: Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay)

Explore Hanoi and embark on a Halong Bay cruise.

Explore Hanoi's history and culture through its landmarks like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter.

Enjoy stunning karst views and other Halong Bay cruise features, like sea swimming and an open bar on board.

  • Days 4–6: Cambodia ( Siem Reap )

Discover Cambodia's top temple of Angkor in Siem Reap and discover its hidden story. Discover Banteay Srei, known as the 'Citadel of Women'. Visit the Cambodia Landmine Museum to see Cambodian's post-Civil-War cleanup efforts, and enjoy a sunset cocktail on Tonle Sap Lake.

  • Days 7–12: Thailand ( Bangkok,  Phuket )

In Bangkok, visit the Grand Palace, take a tuk-tuk ride, and explore Chinatown.

In Phuket, enjoy a leisurely time by the beach. Snorkel, hop to the Phi Phi Islands, and enjoy a serene cruise around the mystical Phang Nga Bay...

  • Days 13–20: Bali

Enjoy the Jimbaran sunset on a cruise. Visit its Hindu temples and find out the background legends. Try some exciting and interesting activities like white water rafting in the rainforest, Balinese cooking classes, and going on a vintage Volkswagen car tour.

Maybe you have other preferred countries or combos, you can also contact us and we will create your ideal itinerary based on your preferences, group size, budget, and other needs.

Southeast Asia is a great bang for your buck. For the cost of an average meal in Western countries, you can savor a fantastic meal at a Michelin-starred place in Southeast Asia. If you're thinking about a private tour, it can be a fancy yet affordable option.

Check out our private tour prices for reference – we make sure you get quality at a competitive price with our rich hotel and experience resources .

  • For travelers with a medium budget, an estimated expenditure of 200–250 USD per day per person covers essential components such as airfare within Southeast Asia, accommodation in carefully selected 4- or 5-star hotels, daily meals, entrance fees to attractions, the expertise of a guide, and hassle-free transfers. Thus, it may cost about 4,000–5,000 USD for 3 weeks.
  • For those with a higher budget, a higher budget ranging from US$250 to 350 per day per person is recommended. This elevated budget encompasses premium offerings such as airfare within Southeast Asia, opulent stays in 5-star or higher-grade hotels, delectable dining experiences, access to exclusive attractions, the guidance of an expert tour guide, and seamless transfers. The total cost for a 3-week is estimated to fall within the range of 5,000 to 7,000 USD.

With us, you're not just traveling; you're getting excellent value. We know the best spots, so you get a top-notch experience without breaking the bank. Easy, right? Let's make your Southeast Asia adventure amazing !

Plan A Trip to Southeast Asia with Us

You are warmly welcome to have us customize your trip based on your group size, interests, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service. Or start from a recommended fully-modifiable itinerary:

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  • Southeast Asia Weather in December 2024 & Best Places to Go

best asia trip itinerary

It was a whirlwind across a number of cities, but a very comprehensive experience across the many sides and cultures of China. Most days had sufficient activities, but weren’t overwhelming, which was great.Across cities, we had excellent tour guides, like Kitty (Beijing), Jenny (Xian), William (Guilin/Yangshuo), Kris (Shanghai), and Tony (Yellow Mountains.)

best asia trip itinerary

From the time we landed in Beijing until we left, we were well taken care of. My wife and I had Lily Liu as our guide and she was amazing. From arranging visits to all the different sights, to teaching us the history, it was fantastic.

The tour was excellent. Selinda was very knowledgeable about all the aspects of our tour. Selinda was very interesting and knew so much Chinese history

We made a private tour through South China in January 2024. Altogether Chengdu was the highlight. We had an incredible day at Emeishan. In Chengdu our guidewas Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

Other highlights are too many to mention but here are a few Ken taking us to the Terracotta Warriors and our food tour in Xian was amazing,

Our day volunteering at the Panda Base was truly unforgettable. Helen, our guide, provided us with invaluable insights about Chengdu and the pandas, enriching our tour with her knowledge and expertise. We're grateful to Helen for accompanying us throughout the day and showcasing the highlights of China.

We had a booking with China Highlights through Silvia Ye who guarenteed a perfect organisation. In Chengdu our guide was Helen. She was the diamond of all. Speaking fluently English, full of interesting stories, laughing and talking all the time. We missed her the rest of our tour. We highly recommend to go to Chengdu for 3 days when visiting China, especially with Helen.

We traveled to China during the Chinese new year and we had Kris as our guide and he is simply knowledgeable,helpful and great.

We visited Guilin for 2 days and stayed in the Guilin Waterfall hotel. Guilin was absolutely beautiful! Our guide, William, was very knowledgeable and kind! He taught us so much about Guilin and the surrounding area! We really enjoyed trying the specialty rice noodles of Guilin. Our highlight was the Li river cruise.

Amazing tour and the guide Mr. 贺霄 was very accommodating with our needs and request as we have bought our 2 years old with us. Well explained for all the place we visited. Any additional cost were informed well ahead and didn't felt any pressure if we opt not to go for additional detour. The trip was relaxing/ laid back/no rushing with zero shopping!

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Ultimate 4-week SE Asia itinerary: Best of Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore

4 week SE Asia itinerary map

For those of us living in Europe or America, a trip to SE Asia is not only a top bucket list item but a significant investment of time and money. Considering the airfare prices and time it will take just to reach one of the major transportation hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore of Hong Kong, a visit to SE Asia is best enjoyed if you have time on your side. When my fiancé and I managed to carve a month out of our hectic London lives, we knew that this would be it. Time to make a dream come true. Here’s the 4-week SE Asia itinerary for our incredible trip to Singapore, Vietnam and Indonesia and one of the most extraordinary experiences of our lives.

  • GOOGLE MAPS

Total No of days: 26 (excluding transfer time from / to Europe)

Singapore: 4 overnight stays

Vietnam: 8 overnight stays

Indonesia: 14 overnight stays

Who is this itinerary best suited to?

Travellers who love culture, nature and aquatic activities in equal measure.

Backpackers, flashpackers & luxury travellers. You can easily adjust the quality of your accommodation & meals accordingly!

When is the best time for this itinerary?

We took our trip in September which is well within the best time to visit Northern Vietnam, Indonesia & Singapore

4 week SE Asia itinerary map

OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA ITINERARY

Singapore Changi waterfall & bridge

✈️ 13h direct flight from London

We flew directly from London to Singapore with British Airways. Our 13h flight on the top deck of Airbus A380 in economy class was actually quite comfortable!

Upon hitting the tarmac, I got so excited not only because our adventure began but also because Changi airport is amongst the best in the world ! We didn’t rush to the exit but took a little detour to check out the incredible Rain Vortex, make sure not to miss it!

Singapore Marina Bay Sands harbour

4 incredible days & nights in Garden City!

The perfect amount of time to get a taste of the incredible sights, experiences and cuisine that Singapore has to offer, especially if this is your first time in the city , as it was for us.

Nevertheless, I really want to visit Singapore again and explore more, so you can definitely spend more days here if you wish. 

Hanoi Hoan Kiem lake

✈️ 3.5h direct flight from Singapore

A short and sweet stay to get a glimpse of the capital of Vietnam!

When planning this trip, friends who visited Hanoi told us that one night in Hanoi is enough because most visitors (especially westerners) either love it or hate it, and you don’t know which camp you are going to be in! Indeed, I have not seen anything like this before in my life!

Walking around in Hanoi (especially in the historic centre) can be an incredibly overwhelming experience due to the insane traffic! The photo above was a rare moment of tranquility!  

Despite its chaotic energy (or maybe because of it) we really liked Hanoi and would certainly like to go back and explore more. However, I still believe that one day in Hanoi might be enough for the first time traveller!

Ha Long Bay view from cruise ship

🚌 + 🛳️ 2h drive from Hanoi to the coast; the islets of Ha Long Bay are just a stone’s throw away from there

Time for a classic bucket list item, a dreamy two-night cruise in Ha Long Bay!

Visiting Ha Long Bay was one of my most anticipated things for this trip and it certainly did not disappoint. The natural beauty of the area is jaw dropping and the floating villages are really impressive too .

Ha Long Bay is certainly worth the hype and our boat, Paradise Elegance, certainly enhanced the experience. Most people opt for the 1-night cruise but I am glad that we chose the 2-day itinerary . We had enough time to enjoy this magical place and relax in the beautiful boat.

Ninh Binh temple steps

🚕 3h drive from the coast of Ha Long Bay

Another classic Vietnam destination!

Ninh Binh is quite an established stop on the travellers’ trail and its nickname ‘Ha Long Bay on land’, should give you a hint as to what this is about. Nevertheless, it is certainly not redundant to visit Ninh Binh after Ha Long Bay, in fact this was one of favourite places in Vietnam!

Otherworldly boat rides, incredible natural landscapes, serene bike rides in the countryside and Buddhist temples galore , our three days in Ninh Binh were filled to the brim with awe inspiring sights and unique experiences.

Sapa Fansipan Cable Car

🚕 + 🚂 + 🚕 1.5h drive from Ninh Binh to Hanoi + overnight train to Lao Cai + 1h drive to Sapa

A barrage of extraordinary experiences in rural Vietnam…

The charming overnight sleeper train took us to the northern mountains of Vietnam. We hiked through the incredible terraced rice fields guided by one of the lovely ladies of Sapa Sisters , an ethnic minority Hmong trekking group, before having lunch at a local home. That’s just day one! A spectacular cable car ride up to Fansipan , the tallest peak of Vietnam made for a relaxing second, and final day, in Sapa.

Uluwatu Padang Padang Beach

🚌 + ✈️ 4h drive from Sapa to Hanoi airport; flight duration to Bali varies (direct flights are quite limited)

Sea, sand, surf and those incredible Bali vibes!

After a long day of travelling, we made it to Bali! We spent 4 days next to the ocean in the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu while exploring southern Bali and indulging in some serious beach club hopping! (We saved the more cultural endeavours for when we move on to Ubud… )!

Komodo Padar island 3 bay view

✈️ + 🚤 1h flight from Bali + 40min (or so) boat ride from Labuan Bajo

Embrace your inner little mermaid and explore life under the sea!

The coral reefs in Seraya are a lively colourful world that seems like it was taken out of Disney’s ‘Little Mermaid’ and dropped in the shallow waters in front of our lovely bamboo hut! We were absolutely stunned every time we put on our snorkels and swam just a few metres off the shore…

Chatting to other guests and staff over drinks and dinner under the stars was also great fun and, of course, we had a blast exploring Komodo National Park… The Seraya is certainly a hidden Indonesian gem, tell only your best friends…

Le Pirate Island beach shacks

🚤 20min boat trip from Seraya island (or 1h boat trip from Labuan Bajo)

Yo ho ho, a pirate’s life is certainly for me!

From the little beach shacks that we slept in, to the phenomenal turquoise coloured water that we woke up right next to, this is one of the best Robinson Crusoe experiences you’ll get with a cocktail in hand! We had so much fun!

Le Pirate Island is the perfect destination for those who love a little bit of flashpacking, wonderful snorkelling and friendly chats with other like-minded travellers…

Bali Tegallalang rice terraces with flowers

🚤 + ✈️ 1h by boat from Le Pirate Island to Labuan Bajo + 1h flight to Bali

Back in Bali for the second part of our island exploration: Ubud and the centre of the island!

Ubud is such a cool place to have a coffee, relax, explore the temples and walk through the Monkey Forest . Further out, there are incredible waterfalls, rice terraces and Mount Batur volcano to explore!

After spending a total of 9 nine days in Bali, I can certainly attest to the island’s magnetic energy! Bali is certainly beautiful but there is something more about this island that I cannot put my finger on; it certainly leaves you wanting more!

Le Pirate Island hammock

✈️ 2.5 flight from Bali to Singapore + ✈️ 13h flight to London

An epic trip comes to an end . We loved every single minute and feel like we had the experiences of three more lifetimes in the space of a month… SE Asia, we will be back!

If we had even more time, I’d love to have visited central Vietnam (Hoi An and Hue) before heading to Indonesia. Also, I wish we could spend a night or two more in Le Pirate Island as it turned out to be such a fun experience!

Ha Long Bay karst formation islets

HOW DID WE PUT TOGETHER OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA ITINERARY?

When we first started daydreaming about a trip to SE Asia, my fiancé and I were really keen on visiting Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia. However, we were also open to seeing what else is out there; SE Asia truly is a vast place filled with wonderful sights and experiences.

In retrospective, being flexible and open to travel ideas actually helped us a lot because the biggest factor that ended up shaping our 4-week SE Asia itinerary was the weather. Travelling off season in tropical destinations is not really our jam . The timings for being able to have a break from work were very specific, so we had to adjust our itinerary to that time of the year. So, we picked places in SE Asia, where September would not suck, and preferably be a good time to visit . This itinerary generally works well when travelling during April, May, September & October (which are the best months for visiting all relevant locations combined).

If you are struggling with when to go where in SE Asia, make sure to check out at my overview of the best time to visit the various countries of SE Asia .

DECIDING ON VISITING SINGAPORE

Singapore was the first and easiest destination that we decided on. This is such an iconic SE Asia destination and it only takes a direct long-haul flight from London to get there. Also, the weather does not change that much throughout the year, so visiting Singapore was a no-brainer!

DECIDING ON VISITING VIETNAM

Things got a bit trickier after that. When I started researching about Vietnam, I realised that September is not a great time to visit the southern part of the country (or the majority of mainland SE Asia). This was a bit disappointing as it made us abandon our original idea for travelling through the whole of Vietnam by train and popping to Cambodia. Strangely though, September is a good time to visit northern and central Vietnam. We really wanted to visit Ha Long Bay, so northern Vietnam became our next stop after Singapore.

DECIDING ON VISITING INDONESIA

For the second half of the trip, we decided to explore Indonesia as September is one of the best months to visit the country . When we started looking into Bali and Flores, we quickly realised that after two weeks of urban and cultural delights in Singapore and northern Vietnam, our trip would now take an exciting turn to more beach time and nature activities! A perfect blend of everything we love doing while travelling! Yeah!

DECIDING ON HOW MANY NIGHTS WE SHOULD STAY IN EACH PLACE

Before putting together this itinerary, I did some research to gauge what would be the main things worth seeing in each place. I then tried to allocate them in a way that we would have one or maximum two activities per day. No more. Trying to do too much in a day has always been a big no no for us, as we want to have enough time and energy to fully appreciate and enjoy our surroundings. For that reason, we also chose to stay for at least two nights in most locations. For the second half of the trip, we extended our stays to 4-5 nights in order to make sure that we didn’t run out of steam after the whirlwind of the first two weeks.

Nevertheless, our itinerary still involved a fair amount of transferring and hotel changing. So, if you are planning a similar (or the same!) itinerary, my advice to you would be to pack light.

Le Pirate Island pink sandy beach

FINAL THOUGHTS: HOW DID OUR 4-WEEK SE ASIA TRIP GO?

In retrospective, our trip exceeded even our wildest expectations . When we came back, our friends were asking us which place we liked the best and we honestly could not choose one over the other! I still haven’t really decided which part was my favourite! This itinerary combined culture, nature, beach time and city time and allowed us to have so many wonderful and unique experiences and see so many things while also having time to relax and enjoy! Needless to say, I wouldn’t change a thing…

This is not a sponsored post & I am not affiliated with any of the hotels, restaurants or organisations mentioned.

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best asia trip itinerary

The Ultimate Asia Trip Itinerary

by Hamzah | Jul 7, 2023 | Asia , Bali , Destinations , Dubai , India , Thailand , Travel Bucket Lists , Turkey

The vast Asia continent is the region of wonders. It will take you on an extraordinary adventure across the diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and fascinating history of East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the ancient wonders of Petra, this detailed Asia trip itinerary provides an in-depth exploration of each destination, along with valuable tips and tricks to enhance your journey. Get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience as we delve into the highlights of this extensive itinerary.

How long should I travel to Asia?

  • East Asia Trip Itinerary
  • Southeast Asia Trip Itinerary
  • South Asia Trip Itinerary
  • Middle East Trip Itinerary

Let us start with the far east! The region has a lot to offer for those looking for different vibes of cultures and customs.

Tokyo, Japan (3-4 days)

japan asia trip itinerary

Begin your East Asia trip itinerary in the energetic metropolis of Tokyo . Then, you should explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Shibuya and Shinjuku, and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing in action. Alternatively, you can visit the traditional Meiji Shrine and marvel at the panoramic views from the observation deck of Tokyo Tower. Moreover, do not miss the chance to visit the historic Imperial Palace and stroll through the tranquil gardens.

Pro Tip: Purchase a Japan Rail Pass before your trip to save money on train travel throughout the country.

Seoul, South Korea (3-4 days)

south korea asia trip itinerary

Next, head to Seoul , a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. During your stay, visit Gyeongbokgung Palace and catch the changing of the guard ceremony to your East Asia trip itinerary. In addition, you can also wander through the charming streets of Bukchon Hanok Village, lined with traditional Korean houses. Moreover, you can also take a trip to N Seoul Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Pro Tip: Visit the vibrant Gwangjang Market to sample a variety of local street food.

Beijing, China (4-5 days)

beijing china

Next, you should explore the ancient wonders of Beijing, starting with the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China. You can choose a section such as Mutianyu or Jinshanling for a more authentic experience. Moreover, visit the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the opulent palaces and vast courtyards. Alternatively, explore the Temple of Heaven and wander through the traditional Hutongs to witness the local way of life.

Pro Tip: Avoid visiting popular attractions during Chinese holidays to avoid crowds for your East Asia trip itinerary.

Hong Kong (4-5 days)

hong kong asia trip itinerary

For your East Asia trip itinerary, experience the dynamic fusion of East and West in Hong Kong . Ride the Peak Tram to Victoria Peak for stunning views of the city skyline. Explore the lively street markets of Mong Kok and Temple Street Night Market, where you can find everything from trendy fashion to delicious street food. Take a trip to Lantau Island to see the iconic Tian Tan Buddha and visit the Po Lin Monastery.

Pro Tip: Utilize the Octopus Card for convenient and cashless travel on public transportation.

Southeast Asia

Next, you should continue your trip to Southeast Asia and explore the beauty of tropical regions. You will surely love it.

Hanoi and Halong Bay, Vietnam (4-5 days)

vietnam asia trip itinerary

If you are visiting Vietnam , you should explore the vibrant capital of Vietnam, Hanoi. Therefore, stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and explore the bustling Old Quarter with its narrow streets and traditional shophouses. You should also try out Vietnamese street food, from pho to banh mi, and egg coffee. Additionally, go on a cruise in Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to witness the breathtaking limestone karsts and enjoy activities like kayaking and cave exploration.

Pro Tip: Book a cruise in advance to secure the best options and Southeast Asia trip itinerary.

Siem Reap, Cambodia (3-4 days)

cambodia asia trip itinerary

Next, you must discover the ancient wonders of Angkor in Siem Reap. Start with a sunrise visit to the iconic Angkor Wat, followed by an exploration of the enigmatic Bayon Temple with its giant stone faces. Then, you should visit Ta Prohm, where massive tree roots intertwine with temple ruins. Moreover, live like a local by visiting floating villages on the Tonle Sap Lake and try traditional Khmer cuisine for your Southeast Asia trip itinerary.

Pro Tip : Hire a knowledgeable local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and symbolism of the Angkor temples.

Bangkok, Thailand (4-5 days)

thailand asia trip itinerary

Experience the vibrant capital of Thailand, Bangkok , for your Southeast Asia trip itinerary. You should marvel at the opulent Grand Palace and the sacred Wat Arun. In addition, explore the bustling streets of Chinatown and the colorful markets of Chatuchak and Damnoen Saduak. Do not forget to savor the flavors of Thai cuisine, from spicy street food to renowned dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup. If you love the nightlife, go to Khao San Road and Sukhumvit.

Pro Tip: Take a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River to explore the city from a different perspective.

Bali, Indonesia (4-5 days)

bali asia trip itinerary

At the end of your Southeast Asia trip itinerary, go to the paradise island of Bali . Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Kuta, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, where you can surf, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Moreover, immerse yourself in the rich Balinese culture by visiting ancient temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. Alternatively, you can also explore the lush landscapes of Ubud, renowned for its art scene and terraced rice fields.

Pro Tip: Experience a traditional Balinese dance performance and enjoy a Balinese spa treatment for the ultimate relaxation.

After Southeast Asia, now let us go to the South Asia region, which will give you one of the unforgettable times of your life.

Sri Lanka (3-4 days)

sri lanka asia trip itinerary

During your visit to Sri Lanka , explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya. You can marvel at their impressive ruins and iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Or you can visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic for some cultural immersion. Next, you can also relax on the golden beaches of Bentota or Mirissa, spot wildlife on a safari in Yala National Park, and discover the charming streets of Galle Fort.

Pro Tip: Pack accordingly for different climates, and hire a local driver or guide for a seamless South Asia trip itinerary experience.

Mumbai and Goa, India (3-4 days)

india asia trip itinerary

After Sri Lanka, let us go up north to explore Mumbai, India ‘s entertainment and financial capital. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Gateway of India and take a ferry ride to Elephanta Caves, known for its ancient rock-cut temples. Moreover, explore the bustling markets of Colaba and Crawford Market. Then, from Mumbai, head to the coastal paradise of Goa. There, you can relax on the sandy beaches, explore Portuguese-influenced architecture in Old Goa, and enjoy water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.

Pro Tip: Try street food delicacies like vada pav and pav bhaji in Mumbai, and savor Goan cuisine featuring fresh seafood and spicy vindaloo.

Kathmandu and Pokhara, Nepal (5-7 days)

nepal asia trip itinerary

Next, in Kathmandu, you must visit UNESCO-listed sites like Boudhanath and Pashupatinath to immerse yourself in Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Then, explore the historic Durbar Square, where ancient palaces and temples stand as testaments to Nepal’s rich history. From Kathmandu, travel to Pokhara, a gateway to the Annapurna mountain range. Enjoy the serenity of Phewa Lake, go paragliding or zip-lining. There, you should embark on a trek in the stunning Annapurna region.

Pro Tip: Ensure you have proper trekking gear and consider hiring a local guide for safety and navigation for your South Asia trip itinerary.

Middle East

Last but not least, you must explore the middle east, where you can find the true meaning of exploration and discovery.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates (4-5 days)

dubai united arab emirates

First off, you should enjoy the luxurious and modern city of Dubai . For example, you can marvel at the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, and experience the dazzling fountains at the Dubai Mall. Then, you must take a trip to Palm Jumeirah and visit the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort. In addition, you must explore the historic district of Bastakiya, filled with traditional wind-tower houses. Do not forget to visit Deira to experience the traditional Emirati markets.

Pro Tip: Consider a desert safari for an adventurous experience, including dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin activities for your Middle East trip itinerary.

Amman and Petra, Jordan (4-5 days)

petra jordan

Now, let us explore Jordan, starting with the vibrant city of Amman for your Middle East trip itinerary. First, you must explore the ancient Roman Theater and Citadel, which offers panoramic views of the city. Then, you should visit the iconic Petra, an archaeological wonder carved into the rose-red cliffs. In addition, walk through the narrow Siq, and behold the breathtaking Treasury. Then, you should explore the impressive Monastery and embark on scenic hikes in the surrounding area, such as the Al-Khubtha trail.

Pro Tip: Visit Petra early in the morning to avoid crowds and take a candlelit tour of Petra by Night for a magical experience.

Istanbul, Turkey (4-5 days)

istanbul turkey

Finally, conclude your comprehensive Asia trip itinerary in Istanbul , where East truly meets West. You should marvel at the architectural masterpiece of Hagia Sophia, explore the magnificent Blue Mosque, and wander through the opulent Topkapi Palace. Lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Grand Bazaar, where you can haggle for rugs, spices, and unique souvenirs. Then, you should take a cruise along the Bosphorus to admire the city’s stunning skyline and experience the fusion of European and Asian cultures.

Pro Tip: Try traditional Turkish tea or coffee, and indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Turkish cuisine, including kebabs and baklava.

Now that you have completed the ultimate comprehensive Asia trip itinerary, it is time to let your adventure begins! JoinMyTrip is the best platform for you to find the best travel buddies around the world to take your vacation to the next level. We have a wide range of group travel options that you can choose from at affordable prices! So, if you want to go on an unforgettable adventure of your lifetime, book a trip with JoinMyTrip now!

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Pasirjambu Day Trip: Explore the White Crater & Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika

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March 1, 2024 · 1 min read

Pasirjambu 1 Day Itinerary

Embark on a one-day adventure to the mesmerizing Pasirjambu, where natural wonders and historical treasures await. Begin your journey with a visit to the White Crater, a stunning volcanic crater lake that will captivate you with its surreal beauty. Spend an hour here, soaking in the ethereal landscape and the unique geological features that make this attraction a must-see. Afterward, enrich your cultural understanding at the Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika. Allocate two hours to explore this historical gem, where the spirit of the Bandung Conference is preserved, and the solidarity among Asian and African nations is celebrated. Located in the heart of Bandung, this museum not only offers a deep dive into pivotal historical events but also stands as an architectural marvel. This concise itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Pasirjambu's most iconic sights, leaving you with memories to cherish and stories to share.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Exploring the Natural Wonders and Historical Gems of Pasirjambu

White Crater

arrow-image

Begin your Pasirjambu adventure with a visit to the ethereal White Crater, a volcanic crater lake that offers a surreal landscape unlike any other. Located in Sugihmukti, just a short drive from Bandung, this natural wonder is the perfect spot to spend an hour marveling at the vibrant turquoise waters contrasted by the stark white crater walls. The White Crater's unique coloration, caused by sulfuric content, and the surrounding area's lush greenery make it a photographer's paradise and a must-visit destination on your itinerary.

Attraction Info

  • White Crater, Sugihmukti, Pasirjambu, Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
  • Open from 7:00am-5:00pm

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Cake Shop Pia Kawitan

Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika

After soaking in the natural beauty of White Crater, delve into the rich history of Bandung at the Museum Konferensi Asia Afrika. Set aside two hours to explore this significant site, situated on Jl. Asia Afrika. The museum commemorates the Asian-African Conference of 1955, which played a pivotal role in shaping the post-colonial world. Inside, you'll find a collection of historical photographs, original conference documents, and artifacts that tell the story of this landmark event. The museum's architecture and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Braga area add to the experience, making it a culturally enriching stop on your journey.

  • Jl. Asia Afrika No.65, Braga, Kec. Bandung Well, Bandung City, West Java 40111
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
  • Open on Tue, Thu, Sat-Sun,9:00am-12:00pm,1:00pm-3:00pm

Atmosphere Resort Cafe

Where to Stay Tonight

Kimaya braga bandung by harris, hotel savoy homann, de braga, artotel curated, best location 2br at braga city walk apartment, top things to do in pasirjambu-2024.

White Crater

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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7 amazing cruise itineraries to book in 2024

I don't know about you, but each year, as the weather turns cold, I start daydreaming about getting out of Dodge — or, in my case, Pennsylvania. My mind wanders to cruises that will take me to places where the temperature is warmer, but I also take a hard look at the (exceptionally lengthy) list of places I'm longing to visit.

After digging through what's new for 2024, I've come up with a shortlist of sailings that I think are noteworthy. They range from a standard Bahamas voyage with a new twist and an extended Alaska sailing that includes a foray across the Arctic Circle to more far-flung destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dream on, dear reader, and add these to your list of 2024 cruise itineraries.

Note: All prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Fares do not include taxes and fees.

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Seabourn's 'Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas' itinerary

Last year, the Australia and New Zealand cruise region gained momentum following the pandemic shutdown. In 2024, the hardly populated Australia region of The Kimberley is gaining popularity. Luxury cruise brand Seabourn will be offering a series of six 10-night voyages between Broome and Darwin on expedition vessel Seabourn Pursuit during what will be early winter in the southern hemisphere.

The line's " Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas " will take passengers to places along the coast few passengers are able to visit to see the stunning teal waters and horizontal waterfalls of Talbot Bay, sample wines in the Hunter River Region and check out nature preserves in Wyndham.

Details: The first sailing, from Darwin to Broome, embarks on June 12. The final voyage, from Broome to Darwin, departs on Aug. 1. Prices start from $6,134 per person ($613 per person, per night), double occupancy, for the July 2 cruise. All accommodations are suites with balconies.

Celebrity's 'Best of Japan' and 'Vietnam and Thailand' cruises

The number of voyages in Asia was trending upward notably prior to 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought cruising in the region to an extended halt. And it's once again on the rise. Following that curve, Celebrity Cruises will be running new 11- to 13-night Asia sailings in 2024 on two ships — Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice — that bring stops in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Thailand.

What's notable about the offerings is that they will aim to immerse passengers further into the destinations by including overnights in a total of 11 ports across all itineraries. That means more time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter as the sun sets, indulge in nighttime gastronomy in Hong Kong, visit one of Bangkok's many markets, or learn why Osaka is known for street food.

Details: Celebrity Millennium's " Best of Japan " cruises run from early mid-March to early October. At press time, the least expensive fares — for a 12-night sailing — start from $1,330 per person ($111 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. It travels round-trip from Yokohama and visits Hiroshima, Pusan and other ports, including Osaka, where the ship will overnight.

Celerbrity Solstice's Vietnam and Thailand cruises kick off in mid-January and run through March. The ship will resume them again in the fall of 2024 and run through the winter season. Prices start from $1,255 per person ($105 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. The voyage sails from Hong Kong to Singapore with stops in Da Nang and Koh Samui, plus overnights in Hanoi and Bangkok.

SeaDream's 'Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles' sailing

Here's one to put on your radar if you're looking to book — but not necessarily sail — in 2024. It's a new Mediterranean itinerary that doesn't start up for nearly three more years, in 2026. The SeaDream routing brings stops at seven ports that are rarely visited by cruise passengers. During the seven-night voyages, there will be calls at Primosten, Croatia; Cesme, Turkey; Cetubal, Portugal; and Kythira, Kythnos, Syvota and Tinos, Greece — making these sailings unique and well-suited to anyone who loves the region but who's looking for new places to experience.

SeaDream's small ships, each of which carries just 112 people, are able to reach locales about which passengers on megaships can only fantasize. Couple that with excellent service, and you'll be visiting the Our Lady of Loretto statue in Primosten, touring the Cesme Castle and lounging on stunning Greek beaches from a home base that puts you squarely in the lap of luxury.

Details: An itinerary that includes three of the seven new ports is the 11-night " Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles " itinerary from Venice, Italy, to Athens, Greece, departing on Aug. 8, 2026, on SeaDream I. Prices start from $10,399 per person ($946 per person, per night) for a room with a porthole view.

Holland America's 'Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice' Legendary Voyage

Alaska is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys the vastness of untouched wilderness, the wildlife it houses and adventurous pursuits it provides. (Think whale-watching, hiking on glaciers and salmon fishing.) However, Holland America 's Westerdam is hosting a 28-day sailing that's anything but your standard cruise to the Last Frontier .

Passengers will visit the usual Alaska ports, such as Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, with scenic sailing through the Inside Passage, past Hubbard Glacier and to Glacier Bay. But they can also expect less-common stops at places like Nome, Kodiak, Anchorage (with an overnight) and Homer. Plus, about halfway through, this cruise crosses the Arctic Circle — a rite of passage for many travelers.

Details: Holland America's 28-day " Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice " cruise — one of the line's Legendary Voyages, known for longer durations and a unique mix of port calls — sails June 9-July 7, round-trip from Seattle. Inside cabins start from $5,299 per person (about $189 per person, per night).

Silversea's summertime French Polynesia cruises

Another consideration for future travel is Silversea Cruises , which is featuring its first full-summer season in French Polynesia in 2026. Silver Whisper will offer two immersive itineraries, including overnights, across 17 voyages between April and September.

Passengers can choose seven-night sailings that visit idyllic favorites like Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine and which also include overnights in Bora Bora. Or, they can cruise for twice as long by selecting a 14-night voyage that calls on the same ports as the seven-night option but with Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona and Tahuata added.

Details: Silversea's seven-night voyages begin April 6, 2026, and start from $5,650 per person ($808 per person, per night) for an ocean-view cabin.

The line's 14-night sailings start on April 20, 2026. Fares start from $10,450 per person ($747 per person, per night) for ocean-view accommodations.

New Bermuda voyages on Carnival Venezia

Beginning in May of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Venezia will sail a series of eight four- and five-night cruises to Bermuda from New York. These itineraries are notable because the line is aiming to increase its presence there but also because the style of the ship is new to even most of the brand's most dedicated passengers.

In 2022, Carnival announced its Costa by Carnival concept after revealing it would be transferring ships from its Costa sister brand to the Carnival fleet. Now, when travelers visit the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse or check out the island's renowned pink-sand beaches during a sailing on Carnival Venezia, they can enjoy both the Italian style of the ship and Carnival's fun atmosphere and high service standards.

Details: Voyages kick off on May 22, 2025. Prices start from $429 per person ($108 per person, per night) for an inside cabin on a four-night cruise departing Sept. 18, 2025.

Disney Cruise Line's Lighthouse Point itineraries

Disney Cruise Line 's new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , a private destination on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, is set to open in June with a three-night preview sailing on June 6 aboard Disney Magic. Following the initial voyage, the line will run regular three- to seven-night voyages to Lighthouse Point on Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

The island will feature a dedicated family beach and water play area, an arts and culture pavilion focused on Bahamian culture, 20 family cabanas, an adults-only beach and a selection of shore excursion options.

Details: Prices for itineraries that include Lighthouse Point start from $624 per person ($208 per person, per night) for a three-night cruise on Disney Magic. The cruise departs Nov. 5 and sails from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

  • Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
  • Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
  • What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
  • What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
  • What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
  • What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
  • What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
  • What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
  • What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Wat Arun is one of the well-known landmarks of Thailand

IMAGES

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  1. Southeast Asia Itineraries & Travel Routes (Ultimate Guide)

    travel tips southeast asia by Marek on DEC 28, 2021 Planning to travel in Southeast Asia? Then you've made a great choice! Southeast Asia is easily one of the world's best regions to travel independently, offering more adventure than you can shake a stick at and generally being incredibly inexpensive too. In this article Southeast Asia in 2 weeks

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    Some other helpful ones are Expedia and Kayak. For the full list click here. Based on that, I looked at different vacation destinations in Asia. Alex and I wanted to find the best places to visit in Southeast Asia, but not overly crowded and with a (cheap!) flight connection from India.

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