Your 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary (With Map)

You have how long to go gallivanting around South East Asia?! If you’re planning a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary then you are one lucky sausage and you’re about to take a trip of a lifetime. If you’re a bit overwhelmed with all the choices and are not quite sure how to make the most of your time in the region then worry not, I have put together your perfect 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary.

The route takes in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia and I’ve even put together a handy map for you to make sense of it all. The route plans for roughly 1 month in Thailand, 1 week in Laos, 5 weeks in Vietnam, and the final two weeks in Cambodia.

Each of these countries is truly unique. Thailand has crazy cities mixed with beautiful tropical islands, and both are waiting to be explored! Laos, a communist country, doesn’t have a coastline or large cities — it’s all about nature, temples, and peaceful vibes, and a memorable journey along the Mekong River. Vietnam has the crazy cities but also the most stunning scenery and the biggest caves in the world. Whilst Cambodia has the famous Angkor Wat temples, beautiful jungles, and a dark history to learn from.

With all this on offer its important you plan your 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary so that you can take in the splendour of the region, backtrack as little as possible, and not go home thinking “Ah I should have gone there!”. This travel route is more or less a loop around the region allowing you to see a lot!

You’ll travel by plane, boat, and automobile. Ready to start your adventure?

Start by flying into Bangkok, Thailand.

Thailand

Currency: Thai Baht

Language: Thai

Capital: Bangkok

Visa requirements: 60 days visa free travel for 93 countries.

Bangkok

Bustle bustle bustle. Bangkok is thriving. It’s modern skyline mixes seamlessly with the traditional way of life and the ancient temples that dot the city. Sure, you can visit the Temples like Wat Arun and the Grand Palace. 

However, what you really want to do is take a trip to Lumphini Park which has an awesome zoo as well as a lake which you can peddle around – just watch out for the giant monitor lizards that can reach up to 8ft long! Also, visit Siam Park City for an awesome day of splashing around in wave pools and slides. At night take a trip to the markets and visit one of the ladyboy shows if you dare.

Kanchanaburi

Just north-west of Bangkok lies Kanchanaburi. You can reach the town from Bangkok by private taxi for $20 or train from Thonburi station. This small town has a host of surprises that will thrill. The first is Erawan waterfalls, this is a series emerald waterfalls in the middle of the forest that flow into each other. In the surrounding forests there are cheeky monkeys and some of the rocks in the pools have formed natural slides for you to enjoy!

When you’re not splashing around check out the original Bridge Over the River Kwai and Hellfire Pass which are modern day reminders of World War 2 and are absolutely enthralling

Hue Hin

Hua Hin is a popular beach town that still retains the small town vibe. Hue Hin Beach is nice but has many sellers so head further north or south to avoid them. There’s a lot of beach activities such as jet skiing that if you haggle for, can be quite a reasonable price.

Black Mountain Water Park is a great day out and has a myriad of slides, a lazy river and an Infinity pool (I’m a water baby so led this!). When it comes to eating out, there are hundreds of good restaurants just a short stroll from your hotel, check out Joes Bar for a personal touch and a game of Connect 4 with the host! The easiest way from Kanchanaburi to Hua Hin is air conditioned mini van (£10 each).

Koh Tao

As a water baby and a nature lover Koh Tao was one of my favourite destinations on my 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary.

As the first of 3 island visits on this itinerary, this small island in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand is lush, rocky, and has great secluded bays and beaches. Not only this, it has some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling sites; you literally take your first step into the sea and you’re surrounded by fish. Definitely, hire a moped/quad to explore the island and all its bays which can easily be done in a day.

Visit Tanote Bay, where in the middle of it there is a big rock (we named Dwayne Johnson) with a death-defying climb and a crazy ass jump. To get here from Hua Hin book a combined bus and boat package through Lomprayah.

Koh Phangan

Another Lomprayah ferry will take you the short journey across to Koh Phangan which is known as a bit of a party island. You can go to Full Moon Party if that’s your thing. However, this island is mostly paradise on earth. Its beaches are out of a postcard, its hotels are majestic, its fishing villages are a marvel and if you pick the right spot it often feels like you’re the only ones there.

Book a fishing trip through your hotel with local fishermen for an authentic experience. Fancy watching a Thai tradition? Head over to Diamond Muay Thai to watch some boxing and hopefully a KO! The rest of the time you can chill on the islands perfect beaches, Thong Nai Pan Noi is my fave!

Koh Samui

The largest and most populous island of the three is Koh Samui. The island has a bit more bustle to it but you can easily find a quiet beach that you will practically have to yourself, my favourite is Maenam Beach on the North of the island.

To explore nature in its fullest book a trip to Angthong National Marine Park where you can kayak or hike to explore the rich environment. For a 5* Star cooking and drink-making experience visit The Thai Experience for an awesome few hours where you might get a little tipsy!

Chiang Mai

After flying back to Bangkok from Koh Samui and maybe staying a night there (depending if you want to take things slower) you can head up the north of the country!

Chiang Mai is famous for its cooking classes and leaving without completing one is a sin! During the day you can take a trip to the beautiful Buak Hard Public Park where you can feed the fish, take part in yoga and admire the scenery! 

Feeling adventurous you can go on The Flight of the Gibbon ziplining experience through the jungles. Feeling slightly more relaxed? Head to Bua Thong Waterfalls to be surrounded by pristine waters!

From Chiang Mai, you will start your epic river journey into Laos. Organise a trip through your accommodation that will take you up to Chiang Rai on the border with Laos.

From here you will head to the border and take an unforgettable 2 day trip along the Mekong on a slow boat. This will take you to your first destination in Laos – Luang Prabang.

Laos

Currency: Laotian Kip

Language: Lao

Capital: Vientiane

Visa requirements: eVisa in advance or visa on arrival $35-$50.

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the second biggest city in Laos but is probably the most visited and popular. The city is beautiful; it is situated within the green and lush mountains of Laos and French architecture runs through the city. There is a sprawling market that offers a wide array of trinkets and you have to try the Crepes and custom fruit shakes that you’ll probably live on whilst you’re there!

Of a night the only place to go to is Utopia, then you should head to the only bowling alley in town. Ask any tuk-tuk driver and they will know what you mean – it’s open till 3 am!

From Luang Prabang, you will head by bus to the nature and adventure lovers paradise of Vang Vieng.

Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng, just south of Luang Prabang, has a bit of a rep as a party town. Those wild days are over, and although you can still have a great party, the area is now a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

The town is renowned for its limestone karst landscapes and the serene Nam Song River. One of the quintessential experiences here is tubing down the Nam Song River—a leisurely float that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and countryside. Depending on how the Laos authorities are feeling will determine how many bars along the river are open!

For those seeking more active pursuits, kayaking provides an exhilarating way to navigate the river’s gentle rapids, while organised rock climbing on the limestone cliffs offers challenges for both beginners and seasoned climbers.

Vientiane

Vientiane is only 90 minutes south of Vang Vieng by bus. The city is definitely one of the less lively you will visit on this 3 month southeast asia itinerary, but is an important hub for your journey to Vietnam.

The main attraction in the city is a great gem of a museum that you will remember for years. The COPE Museum is an exhibition documenting the realities and effects of the bombing raids conducted by the US airforce over Laos.

Some of these bombs were dropped to target Vietnamese soldiers in Laos. However, the majority of these bombs were left over after bombing raids on Vietnam and dropped in Laos to dispose of them before landing back at base. Many of these bombs didn’t explode and are still littering the country.

Vientiane, similar Luang Prabang, has vibrant morning and evening markets that you can spend your time wondering through and picking up trinkets before you head to Vietnam. From Laos you can fly to Hanoi with Vietnamese Airlines, this will be your first stop in Vietnam.

Vietnam

Currency: Vietnamese Dong

Language: Vietnamese

Capital: Hanoi

Visa requirements: 45 days visa free travel for 13 countries including the UK, all other countries need to obtain an eVisa.

Hanoi

Fly smack bang into the capital of Vietnam to start your adventure. Steeped in history and buzzing with energy, the city blends ancient traditions with modern chaos in the best possible way.

Spend your days wandering the Old Quarter’s maze-like streets, sampling iconic street food like pho and bun cha, and sipping Vietnamese egg coffee in a tucked-away café. Explore the cultural side of the city with a visit to the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the impressive Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

In the evenings, take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake, catch a traditional water puppet show, or join the locals at a bia hoi corner for cheap beer and good vibes. Hanoi offers the perfect mix of culture, cuisine, and character to start the Vietnamese leg of your 3 month southeast asia itinerary on a high note.

Sapa

Sapa, your next stop in northern Vietnam, offers a dramatic change of pace and scenery from bustling Hanoi. Nestled in the Hoàng Liên Son mountains near the Chinese border, Sapa is famous for its terraced rice fields, cool climate, and diverse ethnic minority communities.

One of the most rewarding ways to experience the region is by staying in a local homestay, which gives you a chance to connect with Hmong, Dao, or Tay families, share home-cooked meals, and learn firsthand about their daily life and traditions.

Spend your days trekking through the breathtaking landscapes of Muong Hoa Valley, visiting villages like Lao Chai and Ta Van, or hiking to the summit of Mount Fansipan—or taking the scenic cable car for panoramic views. After a day of adventure, unwind in town with a hot herbal bath or enjoy a traditional market.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay may be one of the most famous places on your 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary. The bay is home to around 1,600 limestone islands and islets many of which have pristine beaches and deep caves.

If you are staying at Vietnam Backpackers Hostel – Downtown in Hanoi, you can organise a wild tour through them to the bay where you spend one night on a boat with your other travellers and one night on a private beach. If you want a more chilled vibe there are countless other tours you can book onto ranging from simple to extravagant.

Phong Nha National Park

Phong Nha National Park was my favourite destination on this 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary. If you’re an outdoor adventure lover then the park will provide plenty for you. I took a 2 day trip to the 3rd largest Cave in the world – Hang En – through dense forest and camped in it overnight. If your’e a level up there is a 1 week trek to the largest cave in the world that sits in the same national park!

Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty. At its heart lies the Imperial City, a vast complex of palaces, temples, and the famed Forbidden Purple City—once reserved for the Nguyen emperors. Exploring its moss-covered walls and ornate gates gives a real sense of Vietnam’s royal past.

Don’t miss a stroll through Dong Ba Market, where you can sample local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the lively atmosphere. For a scenic adventure, take a motorbike or car ride over the Hai Van Pass, a winding coastal route offering breathtaking views of the mountains and sea as you travel toward Hoi An.

Hoi An

After your scenic journey along the Hai Van Pass you arrive in Hoi An. The city itself is a charming riverside town best known for its thriving tailoring scene—you can get custom-made suits for around $100, a tradition made even more famous by the old Top Gear episode.

The Ancient Town is a delight to wander, especially during the monthly full moon lantern festival when the streets glow with colour and atmosphere.

Nha Trang

Nha Trang is blessed with an abundance of beaches and islands, many of which are dotted with vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling or scuba diving. Once you’re there, you can easily join a tour to explore the underwater world.

For a fun day out, take a cable car ride to Vinepearl Amusement Park, then unwind with a relaxing mud bath at I Resort. When it’s time to continue your adventure, hop on a 4-hour bus to Da Lat for only $10–$15. You can conveniently book your journey online through Mai Linh Bus Co or Phuong Trang Bus Co, or even arrange it through your accommodation.

Da Lat

Nicknamed the City of Eternal Spring, Da Lat sits high in the hills and is surrounded by pine forests and dramatic waterfalls. Head to Elephant Falls to witness its raw power, and don’t miss Datanla Falls where you can ride a self-controlled alpine coaster through the forest. If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, canyoning here is a must—an unforgettable mix of rappelling, sliding, and leaping through waterfalls.

To get to your next stop Mui Ne, most accommodations can help you book a bus—expect the 5-hour trip to cost between $5 and $10. For a more unique option, consider hiring an Easy Rider—a motorbike tour guide who’ll take you through the scenic mountain roads for around $160.

Mui Ne

After the adventures of Phong Nha and Dalat, Mui Ne is a welcome rest stop. This chill town has quite a lot of hippy hostels all with outdoor pools for you to relax by and soak up the sun. The main highlight of the region is its famous sand dunes, when there you can hire a quad bike to zoom around and hopefully not fall off.

To get around the area and get to the dunes you will most likely hire a moped – be aware thought the police seem pretty hot here on ‘fining’ you for riding without a licence.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s bustling southern hub, and your final stop in Vietnam, is a vibrant mix of history, chaos, and modern flair. A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a fascinating and sobering look at the underground network used by the Viet Cong during the war. Back in the city, dive into the energy of local markets like Ben Thanh, where you can haggle for souvenirs, street food, and fresh produce. As the sun sets, head up to one of the city’s sleek sky bars for panoramic views and a taste of its modern side—Eon 51 Heli Bar is a favourite, especially during happy hour from 5–8 pm when the cocktails are 2 for 1.

Cambodia

Currency: Cambodian Riel or US Dollars

Language: Khmer

Capital: Phnom Penh

Visa requirements: eVisa or Visa on arrival for 30 days. Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond entry date.

Phnom Penh

The countries bustling capital is situated along the mighty Mekong that you travelled along in Laos. Along the river, you will find plenty of parks, restaurants, cafe’s, and bars for you to relax in. The city itself is full of french architecture as well as traditional golden spires of the many temples that dot the city.

However, the experiences of visiting Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek will be what stay most vivid in your mind. These provide a sobering but essential look into Cambodia’s tragic past under the Khmer Rouge where you will not believe what evil humans can descend into.

Sihanoukville

Situated on the Gulf of Thailand this coastal city contains beautiful beaches for you to laze on that are a sun worshipers heaven. There are many islands situated just offshore that you can explore through guided tours as well! The city its self is pretty drab but its all about the beaches there’s party ones and chilled out ones!

Angkor Wat – 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary Final Stop

The famous temples reside here that are the largest religious monument in the world. there is a myriad of little temples and nooks and crannies for you to explore at your own pace, each one slightly different and some have trees growing out of them! A sunrise trip to these ancient relics will stay in your memory forever. 

3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary Map