If you’re planning a trip to Southeast Asia, combining Cambodia and Vietnam into your itinerary is a good idea thanks to their proximity and shared climate. The best time to visit Cambodia and Vietnam often coincides, depending on what you’re looking to experience. These countries will offer you a rich history and culture to explore, as well as stunning landscapes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, you’ll find it here!
Here’s how to make the most of your trip through Cambodia and Vietnam.
Get Your Visas
Before diving into the adventures awaiting you, make sure you’ve sorted out the essentials. Both Cambodia and Vietnam require visas for most travelers. The process is very easy tho! Cambodia offers visas on arrival at major entry points, including Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airports. Vietnam, on the other hand, typically requires you to arrange a visa in advance, although their e-visa system is easy to navigate. But be sure to apply a couple weeks in advance to avoid any issues with delayed visas.
What to Pack
Pack light but smart. The weather in Cambodia and Vietnam is tropical, meaning it’s hot and humid most of the year. Comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent are must-haves. Don’t forget your rain gear if you’re traveling during the wet season, from May to October.
First Stop: Cambodia
Its a good idea to start your adventure in Cambodia. Here you will find ancient history and modern culture colliding. Siem Reap is your gateway to the world-famous Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. You will need an entire this day for this site, or if you want to dive deep, minimum two days. You can consider hiring a local guide or renting a bicycle to explore the less-visited temples, like Ta Prohm, which is slowly being reclaimed by the jungle, or the enigmatic faces of Bayon Temple.
You can also consider visiting the ancient wonders in the capital, Phnom Penh. Here, you can learn about Cambodia’s tragic history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. While these sites are emotionally challenging, they offer crucial insights into the resilience of the Cambodian people. Balance this with a visit to the Royal Palace.
If what you are looking for is a beach getaway, then venture to the south coast and relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville or take a boat to the islands of Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. These islands are less developed than other Southeast Asian beach destinations, offering a much more peaceful retreat with crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
Crossing into Vietnam
Traveling from Cambodia to Vietnam is straightforward, with several options depending on your itinerary. You can fly between major cities, which is the easier, most comfortable option. You can also take a bus across the border, or even travel by boat down the Mekong River into Vietnam’s Mekong Delta.
Once in Vietnam, you can start in the Mekong Delta region, where you’ll experience the floating markets and get a glimpse of rural Vietnamese life.
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is your next stop. This metropolis is a mix of French colonial architecture, war history, and modern skyscrapers. The old and the new all together. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. Don’t miss the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the war. And afterward, indulge in some of the best street food in the world—try pho, banh mi, or fresh spring rolls.
The Northern region in Vietnam offers a lot amazing experiences, starting with Hoi An. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant lantern festivals, and tailor-made clothing shops. Hoi An is also a great place to take a cooking class and learn how to make Vietnamese dishes yourself.
Continuing north, you’ll arrive in Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. The city is known for its historic citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas. A boat ride along the Perfume River offers a peaceful way to see the sights.
Finally, you can end your journey in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Here, you can wander through the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and explore the Temple of Literature. Hanoi is also the gateway to Halong Bay, which is one of the most visited destinations in the entirety of Vietnam. The famous natural wonder with thousands of limestone islands and emerald waters. An overnight cruise on Halong Bay is the perfect way to wrap up your trip.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Currency: Cambodia uses the Cambodian riel and U.S. dollars interchangeably, while Vietnam uses the Vietnamese dong. Make sure to carry some local currency for small purchases, especially in rural areas.
- Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas and you will easily get by with that.
- Health: Be sure to get travel insurance in advance. Do not drink tap water and beware of street food.