Must-See Sites in Vietnam and Cambodia: A Dual-Nation Cultural Odyssey

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. All content is original and owned by Legend Travel Group.

A Timeless Journey Through Two Cultural Gems

Vietnam and Cambodia, neighboring jewels of Southeast Asia, offer a breathtaking tapestry of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and natural wonders. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay to the majestic Angkor Wat, these nations deliver unforgettable experiences for culture seekers, history lovers, and adventure travelers. Curated Vietnam Tours and Cambodia Tours by Legend Travel Group bring these must-see sites to life with expert guides, sustainable practices, and seamless logistics. Whether you’re tracing the Mekong Delta or wandering Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, this guide ensures a respectful, immersive journey through Vietnam Travel and Cambodia Travel highlights.

Legend Travel Group specializes in multi-country adventures, allowing you to explore both nations in one seamless itinerary. With just a 10% deposit required up to 30 days before departure, your travel plans remain flexible and stress-free—keeping peace of mind from booking to boarding.

Administrative Note

No visa is needed for short stays between Vietnam and Cambodia for many nationalities (check eligibility). Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles are recommended. Site entry fees range from $1–$37 per person. Book your Vietnam Tours or Cambodia Tours early to secure preferred dates and guides.

1. Ha Long Bay – The Dragon’s Descent

• Location: Quang Ninh Province, Northern Vietnam

• Highlight: Over 1,600 limestone islands rising dramatically from emerald waters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Best Experience: Overnight cruise with kayaking, cave exploration, and sunrise tai chi.

• Cultural Note: Legend says a dragon created the bay to protect Vietnam from invaders—feel the myth come alive at dawn.

2. Hoi An Ancient Town – Lanterns and Legacy

• Location: Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam

• Highlight: A perfectly preserved 15th–19th century trading port with Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture.

• Best Experience: Evening lantern release on the Thu Bon River; tailor-made áo dài fitting.

• Cultural Note: Respect local homes—remove shoes when entering and ask before photographing residents.

3. Cu Chi Tunnels – Echoes of Resilience

• Location: Ho Chi Minh City outskirts

• Highlight: A 250-km underground network used during the Vietnam War.

• Best Experience: Crawl through restored tunnels, learn guerrilla tactics, and taste wartime rations.

• Cultural Note: Honor the site’s history—silence and reflection are appreciated.

4. Hue Imperial City – Throne of Emperors

• Location: Thua Thien-Hue Province

• Highlight: The Nguyen Dynasty’s fortified palace (1802–1945), a UNESCO site.

• Best Experience: Cycle the Perfume River, visit royal tombs at sunset.

• Cultural Note: Dress modestly; avoid pointing feet at royal thrones.

5. Mekong Delta – River of Nine Dragons

• Location: Southern Vietnam

• Highlight: Floating markets, coconut groves, and homestays on the Mekong’s tributaries.

• Best Experience: Dawn boat ride to Cai Rang Floating Market; homemade rice paper workshop.

• Cultural Note: Greet locals with “xin chào”—a smile goes far in rural Vietnam.

1. Angkor Wat – Temple of the Gods

• Location: Siem Reap Province

• Highlight: The world’s largest religious monument, built in the 12th century.

• Best Experience: Sunrise at the main temple; explore bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics.

• Cultural Note: Cover shoulders and knees; remove hats inside temple grounds.

2. Bayon Temple – Faces of Avalon

• Location: Angkor Thom, Siem Reap

• Highlight: 216 serene stone faces gazing in all directions.

• Best Experience: Climb to the upper terrace at golden hour for mystical light.

• Cultural Note: Walk clockwise—following Buddhist tradition.

3. Ta Prohm – Tomb Raider Temple

• Location: Angkor Archaeological Park

• Highlight: Massive tree roots entwined with ancient stone.

• Best Experience: Early morning visit to avoid crowds; listen for birdsong in the ruins.

• Cultural Note: Do not climb on roots or carvings—preservation is key.

4. Phnom Penh Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

• Location: Phnom Penh

• Highlight: Khmer-style palace with a floor of 5,000 silver tiles.

• Best Experience: Witness the changing of the guard; admire the Emerald Buddha.

• Cultural Note: No photography inside the Silver Pagoda; silence is golden.

5. Koh Rong Island – Pristine Paradise

• Location: Sihanoukville Province

• Highlight: Crystal waters, bioluminescent plankton, and untouched beaches.

• Best Experience: Night swim under glowing plankton; sunrise yoga on the shore.

• Cultural Note: Support local fisher families—buy fresh seafood directly.

Shared Respect Across Borders

• Greetings: Use “xin chào” (Vietnam) or “sua sdei” (Cambodia) with a slight bow.

• Dress Code: Shoulders and knees covered at all temples and palaces.

• Behavior: Remove shoes before entering homes or sacred spaces; never touch someone’s head.

• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially monks or children.

• Tipping: Not expected but appreciated—$1–$2 per service is generous.

• Eco-Mindfulness: Use reusable bottles; refuse single-use plastics at markets.

1. Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights (14 Days)

• Itinerary: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh → Siem Reap

• Includes: All internal flights, 4-star hotels, expert guides, entries, most meals

• Price: From $1,880/person

• Book Now: Vietnam Tours & Cambodia Tours

2. Best of Vietnam (10 Days)

• Itinerary: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Hue → Hoi An → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta

• Includes: Cruise, homestay, cycling, cooking class

• Price: From $1,280/person

• Book Now: Vietnam Tours

3. Cambodia Discovery (7 Days)

• Itinerary: Phnom Penh → Kampot → Siem Reap → Angkor Wat

• Includes: Sunrise tour, village homestay, Apsara dance show

• Price: From $980/person

• Book Now: Cambodia Tours

4. Custom Private Journey

• Tailored for You: Choose any sites, pace, and luxury level.

• Flexible Payment: Only 10% deposit until 30 days before departure.

• Contact: sales@legendtravelgroup.com | WhatsApp: +84825862222

• Expert Local Guides: Fluent in English, passionate about culture.

• Sustainable Travel: Carbon-offset flights, eco-lodges, community support.

• Peace of Mind Booking: 10% deposit, free date changes up to 30 days prior.

• 24/7 Support: On-ground assistance from arrival to departure.

• Exclusive Experiences: Private sunrise at Angkor, lantern-making in Hoi An.

• Best Time to Visit: November–April (dry season); avoid Tet (Jan/Feb) for fewer crowds.

• Getting Between Countries: Fly Hanoi → Siem Reap or Ho Chi Minh City → Phnom Penh (1.5 hrs); or overland via Moc Bai border.

• Currency: USD widely accepted; carry small bills for markets.

• Packing Essentials: Modest clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, reusable bottle, power bank.

• Health: Drink bottled water; use mosquito repellent at dusk.

• How many days do I need? 14–18 days for both countries; 7–10 per nation.

• Can I combine both in one trip? Yes—Legend Travel Group’s dual-nation tours are seamless.

• Is it safe? Very—stick to guided tours and common-sense precautions.

• Do I need visas? Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry or e-visas—check with your guide.

• Are the tours customizable? Absolutely—build your dream itinerary with our team.

Every Vietnam Tour and Cambodia Tour supports:

• Local homestays and family-run restaurants

• Plastic-free initiatives and reef-safe products

• Tree planting with every booking (1 tree per guest)

• Carbon-neutral ground transport

The must-see sites in Vietnam and Cambodia are more than destinations—they are living stories of resilience, faith, and beauty. From the misty karsts of Ha Long to the smiling faces of Bayon, this dual-nation odyssey awaits. Let Legend Travel Group craft your perfect journey with expert-led Vietnam Tours and Cambodia Tours. Secure your spot with just a 10% deposit—travel with flexibility, sustainability, and complete peace of mind.

Ready to explore?
Contact us today: sales@legendtravelgroup.com | WhatsApp: +84825862222
Or book directly: https://www.legendtravelgroup.com

By Legend Travel Group – Crafting Unforgettable Journeys Since 2008.