The Ultimate Indochina Travel Guide

The Southeast Asian peninsula known as Indochina – comprising Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia – is one of the most rewarding regions to explore in a single multi-centre trip. Shaped by centuries of Indian and Chinese influence and a legacy of French colonialism, these three distinct yet beautifully intertwined countries offer rich cultural depth and geographical diversity.

From the serene landscapes of Halong Bay and the monumental Angkor Wat to the spiritual calm of Luang Prabang and the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, the region unites ancient temples, vibrant cities and rural life along the Mekong River.

In this expert-led Indochina Travel Guide, we explore what to see and what to do in Indochina, as well as tips on how to travel through this interconnected region, helping you uncover the most captivating highlights and hidden gems that enrich every journey.

What’s more, our Travel Specialists can tailor every detail to your preferences, creating an itinerary designed entirely around you.

What to See in Indochina

1. The Temples of Angkor Wat

No Indochina journey is complete without exploring the Temples of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Siem Reap, Cambodia. At the heart of the complex stands Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, surrounded by intricate bas-reliefs, jungle-clad ruins and serene courtyards. Watching the sunrise over the temple, as it casts an iconic reflection in the moat, is a singular experience that captures the spiritual grandeur of the Khmer Empire.

Angkor Wat is just one highlight – more than 70 major temple structures are scattered across the site, including the enigmatic Bayon with its 216 smiling stone faces and the banyan-clad Ta Prohm, both of which were featured in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. Make sure you set aside a full day to explore this extraordinary complex thoroughly.

2. Halong Bay's Limestone Karsts

One of Indochina’s most recognisable images, Halong Bay offers dreamlike scenery, with its limestone karsts rising dramatically from jade-green waters. Located in northeast Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest marine karst landscape, home to nearly 2,000 limestone islets.

An overnight cruise offers the most immersive way to experience the bay, sailing through Lan Ha Bay's quieter karsts, kayaking between towering formations, swimming in hidden coves such as Tra Bau and watching reflections on the emerald water and the serene landscape.

Discover a Heritage Line Halong Bay Cruise.

3. Luang Prabang & Pak Ou Caves

The spiritual capital of Laos, Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage town renowned for its blend of traditional Lao wooden houses and elegant 19th- and 20th-century European colonial architecture. More than 30 temples adorn the city, including Wat Xieng Thong, widely regarded as its spiritual heart.

A gentle cruise up the Mekong River leads to the sacred Pak Ou Caves, where over 4,000 Buddha statues are densely packed into two caves carved into a towering limestone cliff.

Beyond the town, nature takes centre stage at the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls, a tiered cascade plunging 60 metres into turquoise pools, their striking hue owed to the calcium carbonate in the rocks. You can spend time here swimming in the clear waters or visiting the nearby Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, which provides sanctuary for rescued Asiatic black bears.

4. Hoi An’s Lantern-Lit Streets 

A highlight of central Vietnam, Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient Town renowned for its remarkably well-preserved trading houses and atmospheric streets. Yellow-painted façades, artisan boutiques and silk lanterns create a picturesque setting that truly shines at night, when the Thu Bon River reflects a kaleidoscope of colour.

Beyond its visual appeal, Hoi An is a cultural and culinary gem. Stroll through lively markets, sample regional specialities like bánh cuốn or join a lantern-making workshop to craft your own keepsake. Historic merchant homes and the Japanese Covered Bridge offer insight into the port’s multicultural heritage.

Looking for more? Explore the top 10 places to visit in Vietnam.

What to Do in Indochina

1. Cruise the Mekong River

Experience life along the Mekong River, where slow-moving waters reveal vibrant floating markets, riverside villages and traditional sampans gliding through narrow canals. Our Essential Cambodia & Vietnam itinerary includes an immersive Mekong Delta experience, starting with a visit to the lively Cai Be floating market before cruising onwards to Dong Hoa Hiep Island, where daily life unfolds along the palm-fringed riverbanks.

For a more immersive experience, consider travelling on the luxurious Aqua Mekong, a small floating hotel that cruises between Ho Chi Minh City and Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, allowing you to explore the Mekong's landscapes and cultures in ultimate comfort.

Discover Essential Cambodia & Vietnam.

2. Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter by Cyclo

The best way to experience Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter is by Cyclo, a three-wheeled, human-powered bicycle taxi. Cruise through the city’s 36 narrow streets, where historically, each was designated for a particular trade.

Hanoi’s French Quarter is the hub of foodie tours and street cuisines, where you can try everything from Cha Cha (a grilled fish and rice noodle dish) to desserts made from mung beans and sticky rice. At Café Giang, experience the birthplace of Vietnam’s original egg coffee, sweetened with condensed milk.

Discover Indochina: Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos.

3. Experience Vietnam Through Its Flavours

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated as one of the world’s finest, and exploring its flavours provides a window into the country’s rich culture and diverse regional styles. On our Culinary Delights of Vietnam tour, start at a neighbourhood wet market to discover fresh local ingredients, then learn to prepare and cook traditional Vietnamese dishes before savouring the meal you’ve created.

Reflecting Vietnam’s geography, culinary styles vary by region: the south is known for its sweet-and-sour flavours, central dishes are spicier and northern cuisine is more subtle and balanced. In Hue, the former imperial capital under Vietnam’s last dynasty, experience the refinement of royal-inspired cuisine through an in-depth cooking class at a “Royal” restaurant. While in Ho Chi Minh City, you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant café culture, enjoying live music alongside expertly crafted cocktails.

Experience the culinary delights of Vietnam.

4. Travel by Luxury Train Along the Coast

With Vietnam’s fast pace and lively city streets, a luxury rail journey offers the perfect opportunity to slow down. Enjoy the country’s changing landscapes aboard The Vietage by Anantara, travelling between Da Nang and the golden shores of Quy Nhon. This boutique rail experience takes you through the country’s scenic heartland in elegant comfort.

Relax in your private compartment and savour gourmet dining, from a thoughtfully crafted three-course meal with complimentary beverages to an elegant afternoon tea. With only 12 passengers on board, the atmosphere remains intimate and exclusive. To add to the sense of indulgence, complimentary head and shoulder treatments are available en route, ensuring you arrive at your coastal destination refreshed and revitalised, ready to explore.

Explore Vietnam by luxury train on The Vietage by Anantara.

Where to Stay in Indochina

Six Senses Nin Van Bay:

Savour a tranquil island escape at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, a secluded retreat that offers a serene counterpoint to the energy of Vietnam’s bustling cities. Just across from Nha Trang, the resort occupies a dramatic bay overlooking the East Vietnam Sea, accessible only by boat, and is surrounded by towering mountains that lend a sense of calm. As for the villas, each one makes the most of its peaceful setting, with some dotted over the rocks, others in the jungle, on the beach, over the water or on a mountain slope.

You can enjoy exquisite dining featuring organic local produce, complemented by the signature holistic wellness experiences of the Six Senses Spa, making this retreat a perfect blend of relaxation and refined indulgence.

Six Senses Con Dao:

After exploring Ho Chi Minh City, a short 45-minute flight to Con Dao offers a delightful beach escape within a protected national and marine park, providing a world away from the busy metropolis's vibrant pace. Inspired by a traditional Vietnamese fishing village, the Six Senses Con Dao setting enhances the extraordinary sense of tranquillity, with spacious villas crafted from teakwood and sustainable materials.

Each villa is just a stone’s throw from the pristine beach, which has been specially designed to facilitate the egg laying of endangered green sea turtles. Under the guidance of knowledgeable hosts, you can even assist with the ethical hatchery and release of the hatchlings.

Four Seasons Resort Nam Hai: 

For ultimate modern luxury and authentic Vietnamese hospitality, Four Seasons Resort Nam Hai is a standout choice. Set on the pristine sands of Ha My Beach, one of the country’s most celebrated beaches, it offers a serene escape while being only a short drive from the ancient city of Hoi An and other UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The boutique resort features three tiers of infinity pools cascading through the centre of the property, while the Heart of The Earth Spa offers overwater treatment pavilions floating atop a lotus-filled lagoon. Here, you can indulge in crystal singing bowls, grounding therapies and bespoke holistic treatments, creating a deeply restorative experience.

Shinta Mani Wild:

Experience the characterful Shinta Mani Wild, a luxury tented camp in Cambodia that fully immerses you in nature. More than just luxury accommodation, it offers a transformative adventure where captivating design, all-inclusive hospitality and world-changing conservation work come together.

Perched high in the Cardamom Mountains, accessible even by zipline for an added thrill, you’ll stay in one of 15 customised luxury tents with sweeping riverbank views. Designed by the renowned architect Bill Bensley, each tent provides complete privacy and elegant comfort. From enjoying sundowners beside a waterfall to taking part in anti-poaching patrols, every aspect of your stay is tailored for a truly exceptional experience.

How to Travel Through Indochina

As a Multi-Centre Journey

While each country offers more than enough to explore on its own, the interconnected geography of Indochina makes a multi-centre journey both convenient and rewarding. Frequent regional flights ensure seamless connections, and we can even arrange luxury vehicles with guides to make your itinerary as smooth as possible.

We recommend a north-to-south route, starting your Indochina journey in Hanoi and travelling south through its centre, with stops in Hoi An, Hue and then on to Ho Chi Minh City. You can then fly to Luang Prabang in Laos before concluding your trip with the vast temples of Siem Reap, Cambodia.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The optimal time to explore Indochina is generally between November and June, when much of the region experiences dry, cooler weather. November to February is especially good for sightseeing, with comfortable, less humid temperatures and clear skies. Each country has its own seasonal nuances, and in Vietnam, conditions can also vary by region, so it’s wise to plan accordingly based on your itinerary.

Why Travel to Indochina

Ready to explore Indochina’s cultural wonders?

Our expert Travel Specialists can combine Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in any way that suits your travel style, creating an itinerary tailored entirely to you. These countries also pair beautifully with Thailand and Singapore for a wider Southeast Asian journey.

Whichever destinations you choose to discover, every detail of your trip will be thoughtfully designed to create an unforgettable experience.