If you only have two weeks in Southeast Asia, combining Thailand and Vietnam gives you the perfect balance of tropical relaxation, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Thailand impresses with golden temples, buzzing night markets, and idyllic beaches, while Vietnam captivates with ancient towns, dramatic landscapes, and world-class cuisine.

This itinerary flows naturally: starting with Thailand’s urban and cultural hubs (Bangkok and Chiang Mai), transitioning to island bliss in Phuket or Krabi, and then heading to Vietnam for Hanoi’s energy, Ha Long Bay’s wonders, and Hoi An’s timeless charm.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Southeast Asia who want variety without feeling rushed, offering a taste of both countries’ highlights in a balanced way.

2-Week Thailand & Vietnam Itinerary at a Glance

Bangkok – Temples, Street Food & City Buzz (Days 1–3)

Bangkok is the vibrant gateway to Thailand, mixing sacred temples with a modern skyline. Spend your mornings visiting the Grand Palace, the golden reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the riverside Wat Arun.

In the afternoon, dive into Bangkok’s street life—wander through the Old City, shop at Chatuchak Market (if visiting on a weekend), or take a boat tour through the canals.

Evenings are best spent indulging in Bangkok’s food scene. Take a street food tour in Chinatown, sample pad thai, mango sticky rice, or grilled skewers, and end your night at a rooftop bar overlooking the city lights.

Chiang Mai – Culture & Mountain Vibes (Days 4–5)

A short flight north brings you to Chiang Mai, known for its laid-back charm, cultural heritage, and stunning mountain backdrop.

Start with the Doi Suthep Temple, perched on a hill with panoramic city views. Then, explore Chiang Mai’s Old City, with its ancient walls, quiet lanes, and countless temples.

For an ethical wildlife experience, spend half a day at a responsible elephant sanctuary, where you can feed and bathe elephants in a natural setting. In the evening, wander through Chiang Mai’s night bazaars, where you can shop for handicrafts, taste northern Thai dishes like khao soi, and enjoy live music.

Phuket or Krabi – Island Escape (Days 6–7)

After cultural immersion, unwind with two days in Thailand’s beach paradise. Both Phuket and Krabi offer turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and excellent island-hopping tours.

From Phuket, you can take a day trip to the famous Phi Phi Islands, while Krabi offers access to the breathtaking Railay Beach and James Bond Island.

If you prefer a slower pace, spend your days lounging by the beach, taking a Thai cooking class by the sea, or enjoying a sunset cruise. Both destinations make for a perfect midway break before heading to Vietnam.

Hanoi – A Cultural Gateway to Vietnam (Days 8–9)

Flying into Hanoi, you’ll immediately notice the shift in culture and atmosphere. The capital of Vietnam is a vibrant mix of history and modernity, where French colonial architecture blends with buzzing motorbike-filled streets.

Highlights include wandering through the Old Quarter, where each street is dedicated to a traditional craft, and visiting landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hoan Kiem Lake.

Food is central to the Hanoi experience. Take a street food tour to try iconic dishes like pho, bun cha, and the famous egg coffee. In the evening, enjoy a water puppet show or a traditional music performance.

Ha Long Bay – Natural Wonder of the World (Days 10–11)

A trip to Vietnam is incomplete without visiting Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site with thousands of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.

Spend two days on an overnight cruise, which allows you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery. Cruise itineraries typically include kayaking through hidden lagoons, visiting floating fishing villages, and exploring caves.

Depending on your budget, you can choose a luxury cruise with fine dining and private balconies or a mid-range option that still offers comfort and breathtaking views.

Hoi An – Vietnam’s Lantern-Lit Charm (Days 12–14)

End your trip with three days in Hoi An, one of Vietnam’s most enchanting towns. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An’s Ancient Town is famous for its colorful lanterns, merchant houses, and tailor shops.

During the day, cycle through the countryside, passing rice paddies, coconut groves, and traditional craft villages. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to prepare local specialties.

At night, the town transforms into a glowing wonderland during the lantern festival (monthly), or simply stroll by the riverside for a magical atmosphere.

Travel Tips for Thailand & Vietnam

• Best time to visit: November–April offers pleasant weather in both countries. Avoid the peak monsoon season (June–September) for smoother travel.

• Visas: Thailand offers visa-free entry for many countries, while Vietnam requires an e-visa for most travelers.

• Transport: Flights are the fastest way between cities, while local trains and buses offer more affordable options.

• Budget: Backpackers can travel on $40/day, mid-range travelers on $80–120/day, while luxury options start from $200/day.

Why Travel with Ftrip Vietnam (Vietnam Portion)

While Thailand is generally easy to navigate independently, Vietnam’s diverse regions benefit from local expertise. Ftrip Vietnam helps you customize the Vietnam portion of your trip to match your preferences.

• Seamless travel: Private transfers and domestic flight arrangements.

• Authentic experiences: Local guides in Hanoi, Ha Long, and Hoi An.

• Exclusive packages: Discounted cruise deals, cultural activities, and tailor-made itineraries.

With Ftrip Vietnam, you can ensure your Vietnam journey is stress-free, authentic, and deeply enriching.

Conclusion – Your Southeast Asia Adventure Awaits

A Thailand and Vietnam 2-week itinerary combines the best of both worlds: Thailand’s golden temples and idyllic beaches with Vietnam’s ancient towns and natural wonders.

From Bangkok’s bustling energy to Ha Long Bay’s tranquil waters and Hoi An’s glowing lanterns, every destination adds something unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking cultural depth, relaxation, or adventure, this trip offers a perfectly balanced introduction to Southeast Asia.

With the right planning—and support from Ftrip Vietnam—you can transform your journey into an experience filled with memories that last a lifetime.