Highlights of Indochina in Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

Today, you will depart from your selected airport. Your flight will take you to the serene town of Luang Prabang in Laos, with connecting flight(s) along the way. 

You’ll land in Luang Prabang, Laos – one of Indochina’s most enchanting gems.

Upon arrival, you’ll make your way through immigration and collect your luggage. In the arrivals hall, your guide will be waiting for you, wearing a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign, making them easy to spot. You’ll then be driven to your hotel, which is about a fifteen-minute drive away. Once you arrive at the hotel, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Luang Prabang offers a unique blend of traditional Laotian architecture and French colonial charm – one of the reasons the city is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Life here moves at a gentle, unhurried pace, exuding a quiet dignity that makes it truly special.

The old town is set on a peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet. Surrounding Luang Prabang is a breathtaking natural landscape, with forested mountains, cascading waterfalls, and hidden caves. Vibrant greens weave between golden temples and peaceful, picturesque streets.

As the sun begins to set, you can wander through the vibrant night market that springs to life along the city’s main street every evening. Here, you’ll discover everything from handmade souvenirs and silverware to colourful scarves and bustling street food stalls serving grilled snacks and noodle soups.

Today offers an action-packed full-day excursion in and around Luang Prabang.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will collect you. You’ll begin by exploring several of the former royal capital’s cultural highlights. Among your stops are Wat Xieng Thong, one of the city’s largest and most ornately decorated temples, and Wat Mai, celebrated for its beautifully gilded façade.

Next, your tour will take you to the former Royal Palace, constructed in 1904 during the colonial era for King Sisavang Vong. Today, the building houses the National Museum, where you can experience the well-preserved royal quarters along with a range of rare religious and cultural artefacts. It’s easy to imagine how life once unfolded on these polished palace floors.

Your journey will then continue to Mount Phousi, just one kilometre away. Here, 328 steps await, leading you all the way to the summit. Along the way, you’ll pass small temples and Buddha statues where you can pause to catch your breath and take in the views. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic vista over Luang Prabang, with the rivers, temples, and lush landscapes – all beautifully framed by rolling, green-clad mountains.

After a lovely lunch, you’ll head 30 kilometres south to visit the Kuang Si Waterfall. Surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, the water tumbles down a steep hillside across three levels. The highest drop is an impressive 60 metres, and at the lowest pool, you can take a dip in the calm, turquoise-blue waters.

The day concludes with a visit to the nearby Sun Bear Reserve. Run by the organisation Free The Bears, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for endangered Malayan sun bears, whose bile is unfortunately used in traditional medicine. Here, you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the centre’s work to protect and care for these wonderful bears.

You will then be driven back to your hotel in Luang Prabang.

Every morning, in the early hours, a truly unique ritual unfolds in Luang Prabang. Hundreds of monks move quietly through the city’s streets, gathering alms. Each family sends a member outside with food or drinks, which are then distributed into the monks’ bowls. It’s hard not to be moved by the respectful silence and immense dignity that surrounds this daily act.

Today is yours to spend as you wish. Stroll through the charming streets, where old French colonial houses and traditional Lao wooden villas stand side by side, and where little cafés and art shops are tucked away behind colourful shutters and softly glowing lanterns. Take your time to simply wander and perhaps get a little lost in the city’s laid-back atmosphere.

A wonderful spot to pause is by the banks of the Mekong River, where you can enjoy a freshly-made smoothie or a robust Lao coffee as you watch the boats drift past. If you’d like to delve deeper into the local culture, the city offers several small museums and workshops, where you can experience traditional textile weaving, papermaking, or try your hand at Lao cookery.

In the evening, you can explore the night market, pick up any last souvenirs, or feast your way through the wide array of local dishes on offer.

Today, you will bid farewell to Laos. You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to Luang Prabang International Airport, from where you will fly to Hanoi in Vietnam.

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, you’ll pass through immigration and collect your luggage. Your guide will be waiting for you outside the arrivals hall, just beyond the exit doors. Look out for their TourCompass uniform and sign to easily spot them.

You’ll then be transferred to your hotel, and after checking in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy your first impressions of the Vietnamese capital at your own pace.

We highly recommend exploring the narrow, bustling streets of the Old Quarter, where each alleyway is alive with tantalising scents, sounds, and everyday snapshots of Vietnamese life. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, whose shady trees and local atmosphere make it a popular oasis in the heart of the city.

Today, an exciting tour awaits, taking you to some of Hanoi’s most iconic attractions.

You’ll be collected from your hotel by your guide, and the day will begin with a classic Vietnamese coffee at a local café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake – the city’s green heart and a natural gathering place for young and old Hanoians alike.

From here, you’ll cross the iconic Huc Bridge to the Ngoc Son Temple, which sits on an island in the midst of the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake. The bridge’s name means ‘place touched by the morning sun’s rays’. Here, you’ll hear the legend of the emperor, the magical sword, and the giant turtle, gaining insight into how the lake got its name and why it holds such special significance for the city.

Afterwards, you’ll be driven to the Temple of Literature, a tranquil complex built in the 12th century by students of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. With nearly a millennium of history, the temple stands as a rare and beautifully preserved example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, complete with colonnades, ponds, and verdant courtyards – a spot where young students still come to pray for luck in their exams.

Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant.

The adventure will continue with a ride in a cyclo – a cycle rickshaw – weaving through the old quarter’s maze of narrow streets and vibrant, bustling trade. This historic district is famed for its 36 streets, originally named after the goods once sold there: bamboo, silk, paper, and tin. Many of these old street names remain, and the area is alive with local charm, as Hanoians still barter, chat, and serve up steaming bowls of pho from bustling street kitchens.

Following your exciting cyclo ride, you’ll visit the historic Long Bien Bridge – an iconic landmark from the French colonial era, built in the early 1900s. This distinctive iron bridge spans the Red River and, although heavily damaged during the Vietnam War, stands today as a powerful symbol of Hanoi’s resilience. Reserved for trains, cyclists, and pedestrians, the bridge promises an atmospheric experience. Here, you may meet locals cycling to work or selling fruit by the tracks, and you can savour views of the small, green river islands with cultivated fields nestled amidst the city – a favourite subject for photographers and travellers hoping to capture the true spirit of Hanoi.

Today’s sightseeing tour concludes with a performance at the water puppet theatre, a centuries-old Vietnamese tradition where puppets dance across the water’s surface accompanied by live music and classical storytelling.

After an exciting day, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, and the evening is yours to spend as you wish.

Today, you will have plenty of time to discover the vibrant capital of Vietnam at your own pace. You’ll set the rhythm – perhaps one of our optional tours will tempt you, or maybe you’d prefer to explore the city independently?

Hanoi is a true sensory feast. Spend a few hours around the beautiful Hoan Kiem Lake, where narrow streets and French colonial architecture hide small shops, welcoming cafés and colourful art galleries. Settle down with a Vietnamese coffee and watch life unfold around you, or make your way to the iconic Train Street, where trains pass astonishingly close to the cafés lining the street.

For lunch, dive into Hanoi’s famous street food scene. Try a steaming bowl of pho, savour the aroma of grilled bun cha, or grab a crispy banh mi to enjoy on the go.

As night falls, Hanoi really comes alive. The streets light up from the glow of street kitchens, and the aroma of grilled meat, fresh coriander, and spiced broth drifts along the narrow alleys. You might choose to wander through the Old Quarter, swept along by the city’s unique atmosphere, or settle in on a rooftop bar to soak up the spectacular views of the city’s vibrant life below.

Today, you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and set off for one of Vietnam’s most iconic natural wonders – the legendary Ha Long Bay. The drive will take around 4 hours, with a stop en route, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and grab a refreshment.

Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most distinctive natural areas. Here, hundreds of lush limestone karsts rise dramatically from the sea, which shifts in colour throughout the year from deep blue to jade green. The largest island, Cat Ba, is home to several villages, while a few of the smaller islands host tiny fishing communities. For travellers, Ha Long Bay is first and foremost a world-class natural wonder; for the Vietnamese, it is also a place steeped in legends of dragons and epic tales. Covering an area of around 1,500 square kilometres, the bay was granted UNESCO world heritage status in 1994.

You will arrive at Tuan Chau Marina, where you’ll check in and, before boarding your mini cruise ship, take some time to relax in the lounge.

Once aboard, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink as the crew gives a brief introduction to the adventure ahead. Afterwards, you can settle into your cabin and prepare for a delicious lunch featuring both Vietnamese specialities and international dishes. Meanwhile, the ship gently glides out onto the emerald waters, where you’ll be treated to views of some of Ha Long Bay’s most iconic rock formations, including Incense Burner, Dog Stone Islet, Fighting Cock Islet, and Three Coconuts Island.

Later, the boat will stop at a local pearl farm, offering you a fascinating insight into traditional pearl cultivation. Here, you’ll also have the opportunity to go kayaking and paddle your way through the scenic landscapes.

The journey continues to Sung Sot Cave, Ha Long Bay’s largest and most impressive limestone grotto. Inside, you’ll be rewarded with a magical landscape of stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over millions of years. We recommend sturdy, closed footwear, particularly during wet weather.

Back on board, you can relax with a drink in the bar.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a selection of traditional dishes prepared by the ship’s chefs.

The rest of the evening is yours to spend as you wish. Unwind on deck and soak up the many colours of the sunset, or perhaps try your hand at squid fishing off the stern. When you’re ready, retreat to your cabin and fall asleep to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the hull.

Please note: In case of severe weather or storms, the Vietnamese authorities reserve the right to close Ha Long Bay to navigation for safety reasons. This only happens a few times a year. Should this occur, the mini-cruise will be replaced with a hotel stay and an excursion.

Begin your day by discovering Ha Long Bay in the soft light of the morning mist. If you’re an early riser, you can join an optional tai chi session on the sun deck, allowing your senses to awaken to the peace, breathtaking views, and fresh sea air, before a light breakfast is served in the ship’s restaurant.

After breakfast, your tour will continue to Ti Top Island, a small limestone island boasting one of Ha Long Bay’s finest sandy beaches. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the emerald waters or climb to the island’s summit, where breathtaking views of the bay await you.

Once back on board, you’ll have time to pack and get ready for check-out before lunch is served. The boat will quietly make its way back to the harbour, giving you a final opportunity to soak up the magical scenery from the deck.

You’ll disembark at Tuan Chau Marina, where your guide and driver will be waiting to greet you. From here, you’ll return to Hanoi, where you’ll have a few hours at your leisure before boarding the night train to Da Nang. We recommend having dinner in Hanoi – perhaps in the Old Quarter, where you can also pick up snacks and drinks for your journey.

Upon arrival at Hanoi Railway Station, you’ll board the overnight train to Da Nang – a simple, yet atmospheric way to travel south through the night. By default, you’ll stay in a shared 4-berth sleeper cabin, but for an additional fee, you may upgrade to a private cabin if you’d like a little extra peace and quiet along the way.

If you’d like a more comfortable tour and extra time in Hoi An, you can opt to fly from Hanoi to Da Nang instead of taking the train. This upgrade is available as an optional extra and includes transfers to and from the airport, as well as an additional night’s stay in Hoi An.

You’ll wake up to stunning scenery as the train winds its way along the coastline and through the picturesque Van Hai pass.

Upon arrival in Da Nang, your guide will be waiting to greet you, and you’ll be driven onwards to Hoi An. The journey takes around 45 minutes and passes through lush landscapes and charming villages in central Vietnam. Once you arrive at your hotel, the remainder of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Hoi An is truly an experience in itself – a city you’ll quickly fall in love with. The old town, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, is especially renowned for its beautifully preserved architecture, proud tradition of silk production, and its many talented tailors. Here, life seems to move at a gentler pace, and history comes alive in every street, façade, and little shop you come across.

Flowing through the heart of the city is the Thu Bon River, once a vibrant international trading centre in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, its banks provide a peaceful and picturesque backdrop to daily life and the many small boats that still drift along the water.

Away from the river, a charming maze of narrow streets unfolds before you. Here, you’ll discover a vibrant blend of Japanese timber houses, Chinese assembly halls, elegant French colonial buildings, and the iconic merchant’s homes. Colourful lanterns drape across the streets like garlands, casting a magical atmosphere, especially as evening draws in. Shops, street food stalls, cosy cafés, and inviting little restaurants are strung along the streets like pearls, enticing you to relax or indulge your curiosity with new discoveries.

Despite its popularity, Hoi An manages to retain its tranquillity, authenticity, and warm atmosphere. This is largely due to the fact that cars and motorised vehicles are banned in the historic old town, allowing you to wander at your leisure and simply soak up the ambience without any disturbance.

These days are yours to spend as you wish, and Hoi An offers endless possibilities – whether you crave relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences.

Perhaps a peaceful day by the sea tempts you? Hire a bicycle and cycle to one of the nearby beaches, Cua Dai or An Bang, where soft sand and swaying palms create the perfect setting for relaxation and a refreshing dip in the warm sea. Alternatively, you might want to explore Hoi An’s enchanting streets and alleys, with their unique boutiques, welcoming cafés, and vibrant markets. You may even be tempted to visit a local tailor and have a bespoke garment made to take home as a special memento.

If you’re curious about the area around Hoi An, you can choose from one of our exciting optional tours – find out more about them below.

Today marks your farewell to Vietnam as you head to Siem Reap in Cambodia. You’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to Da Nang International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away. From here, your flight to Siem Reap will depart.

Upon arrival at Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, you’ll make your way through immigration and collect your luggage. Your guide will be waiting just outside the arrivals hall, wearing a TourCompass uniform and holding a TourCompass sign, making them easy for you to spot. Right from the start, you’ll notice the warm and welcoming spirit of the proud Cambodian people. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in central Siem Reap – a journey of around one and a half hours.

After arriving and checking in, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Siem Reap is a charming, laid-back town, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the French Quarter or beneath the shady trees along the Siem Reap River. You’ll discover small shops, cafés, and bustling markets. In the evening, be sure to explore the vibrant night market, where the aroma of Khmer delicacies is truly tempting. Sample some delicious grilled meat or a spicy noodle dish and join the locals on a stool to enjoy a snack. If you’re feeling a little adventurous, why not try some grilled crickets on a skewer?

An extraordinary day awaits, with a visit to one of the world’s truly great wonders: the magnificent Angkor Wat, set within the ruined city of Angkor, a UNESCO world heritage site.

After a hearty breakfast, your guide and driver will collect you from your hotel and drive you roughly fifteen minutes outside the city to this awe-inspiring temple area. As the site is vast, you’ll travel between the main locations by car, exploring each attraction on foot in the company of your guide.

Your day will begin at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, where statues of good and evil gods flank the entrance. From here, continue to the iconic Bayon temple, celebrated for the hundreds of smiling faces adorning its lofty towers. The intricate bas-reliefs are particularly striking, depicting scenes of everyday Khmer life as well as great battles between the Khmers and the ancient Thai.

You’ll also visit Phimeanakas, a pyramid-shaped temple with two pools behind it that were once used for religious rituals. Climb to the top of the temple for wonderful views across the Angkor area.

Discover the Elephant Terrace, where a long wall is adorned with intricately carved elephant heads. From here, King Jayavarman could once observe his army. Nearby, you’ll find the Terrace of the Leper King, featuring a statue of Yama, the Hindu god of death.

After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Ta Prohm, a temple that stands apart from the rest. Here, massive trees have taken root among the ruins, creating a mesmerising fusion of nature and ancient stone.

You’ll return to Siem Reap for lunch and a welcome break from the midday sun.

In the afternoon, the highlight of the day awaits: the iconic Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument and Cambodia’s best-preserved temple. Few visitors fail to be awe-struck by this spectacular building, which rises majestically in three tiers and is crowned with five lotus-shaped towers. Wander through the temple’s inner courtyards and vaulted corridors to admire the endless bas-reliefs and marvellous carvings. From the top level, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views across the grounds.

Your day will conclude with a sunset over the jungle from the top of Phnom Bakheng temple, before you return to your hotel.

Today is yours to do as you please – whether that means unwinding by the pool, exploring the city, or joining one of our exciting optional tours, which you can read more about below.

If you choose to explore the city, you might like to visit the small Royal Gardens park, for instance. Or perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming side streets, where you’ll come across small temples with golden roofs and exquisite gardens. Alternatively, settle in at one of the many cosy cafés along the riverside and watch the world go by.

In the evening, Pub Street comes alive with energy. Packed with restaurants and bars, it’s the city’s natural meeting point.

Today marks the end of your Indochina adventure. You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport, where you’ll board your flight to Europe, with connecting flight(s) along the way.

You’ll touch down at your selected airport, your suitcase brimming with memories from some of Indochina’s most enchanting destinations.