The ultimate Southeast Asia circuit. Start with Philippine beaches and island-hopping, cross to Vietnam for history and street food, move to Thailand for temples and nightlife, and finish in Bali for rice terraces and surf culture. Four countries, 28 days, one unforgettable trip.
Quick Budget Estimate
Best Time
November to March works best for the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand legs. Bali is typically driest from April to October, so the Bali leg may see more rain if you travel November–March — plan accordingly. Avoid March–May in Chiang Mai (burning season with severe air quality). Philippine typhoon season peaks July–October.
Days 1-2: Manila, Philippines
Perfect introduction to Filipino culture with historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and amazing street food scene. Read full guide →
Things to Do
Explore the walled city built by Spanish colonizers with cobblestone streets, churches, and museums
$15-25 for guided toursVisit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds
Learn Philippine history at the national museum complex and relax in the country's most famous park
Free — both Rizal Park and National Museum have free admission dailyCombine both in one afternoon visit
Sample authentic Chinese-Filipino fusion dishes in the world's oldest Chinatown
$20-30 for food tourCome hungry and try the famous hopia pastries
Experience Manila's modern side with rooftop bars, clubs, and night markets
$30-50 for drinks and cover chargesStart at Poblacion area for the best bar-hopping experience
Things to See
- San Agustin Church — UNESCO World Heritage baroque church from 1607, the oldest stone church in the Philippines
- Manila Bay Sunset — Famous for spectacular sunsets, best viewed from Roxas Boulevard or MOA Eye ferris wheel
- Casa Manila — Reconstructed Spanish colonial house showcasing 19th-century Filipino upper-class lifestyle
What to Eat
Purple Yam or local carenderias · $3-8 (verify current rates)
Manam or Aristocrat · $5-12 (verify current rates)
Milky Way Cafe or Chowking · $2-5 (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Z Hostel ($15-25/night) or Mad Monkey Hostel Makati ($20-30/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaSeda Makati ($60-80/night) or Go Hotels Ortigas ($40-60/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaRaffles Makati ($200-300/night) or Peninsula Manila ($180-250/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Take airport taxi ($15-20) or Grab ride ($10-15) to city center. Airport shuttle buses available for $2-3.
Getting Around
Use Grab app for convenient rides ($3-8 within city). Jeepneys are cultural experience ($0.50 per ride). LRT/MRT trains efficient for longer distances ($0.50-1). Avoid rush hours 7-9am and 5-7pm.
Days 3-5: El Nido/Palawan, Philippines
Stunning limestone cliffs, crystal-clear lagoons, and pristine beaches make this a tropical paradise. Read full guide →
Things to Do
Visit Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Shimizu Island with snorkeling
$25-35 per person including lunchBook through your accommodation for better group rates
Paddle through hidden lagoons and explore caves at your own pace
$15-25 for half-day rentalGo early morning for calmest waters and best light
Visit this 4km stretch of golden sand beach, less crowded than El Nido town beaches
$10-15 for motorbike rental or $30-40 for tricycleBring your own food and drinks as options are limited
Watch spectacular sunsets from this peaceful beach area 15 minutes from town
Free, plus transportation costsArrive 30 minutes before sunset and stay for the blue hour
Things to See
- Big Lagoon — Iconic turquoise lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, perfect for kayaking and photos
- Cathedral Cave — Stunning cave formation accessible by swimming through an underwater entrance
- Snake Island — Curved sandbar that appears and disappears with tides, offering panoramic views of Bacuit Bay
What to Eat
Artcafe or beachfront restaurants · $8-15 (verify current rates)
Trattoria Altrove or local eateries · $5-10 (verify current rates)
Squidos Restaurant or island tour lunches · $3-6 (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Spin Designer Hostel ($12-20/night) or Mad Monkey Hostel El Nido ($15-25/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaFrangipani Hotel ($40-65/night) or El Nido Cove Resort ($55-80/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaLio Tourism Estate ($150-250/night) or Miniloc Island Resort ($300-500/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly Manila to El Nido Airport (1.5 hours, $80-150) or Puerto Princesa then bus to El Nido (6 hours, $10-15). Direct flights more convenient but limited schedule.
Getting Around
Rent motorbike ($8-12/day) for flexibility. Tricycles available for short trips ($2-5). Walking possible within town center. Most island tours include boat transportation.
Days 6-8: Cebu, Philippines
Historic Spanish colonial heritage combined with modern amenities and access to world-class diving and beaches. Read full guide →
Things to Do
Swim with gentle whale sharks in their natural habitat, world's most reliable whale shark encounter
$30-40 for swimming experience plus $40-60 transportLeave at 4am to avoid crowds and combine with Tumalog Falls visit
Adventure activity jumping, sliding, and swimming through canyon to reach stunning waterfalls
$25-40 for guided canyoneering tourBring waterproof phone case and secure footwear
Visit Magellan's Cross, Basilica del Santo Niño, and Fort San Pedro
$15-25 for guided tour or free if self-guidedCombine all historical sites in one morning for efficiency
Visit the Roman-inspired temple with city views and colorful flower gardens
$3-5 entrance fees eachGo in the afternoon for best lighting and cooler weather
Things to See
- Magellan's Cross — Historic cross planted by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, marking the arrival of Christianity
- Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House — One of the oldest houses in the Philippines, showcasing Chinese-Filipino architecture from 1675
- Fort San Pedro — Triangular military defense structure built by Spanish conquistadors, now housing historical artifacts
What to Eat
CNT Lechon or Zubuchon · $8-15 per serving (verify current rates)
Street vendors or Larsian BBQ · $0.50-1 per piece (verify current rates)
Mactan Island seafood restaurants · $10-20 per dish (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Mad Monkey Hostel Cebu City ($12-18/night) or Z Hostel ($15-22/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGV Tower Hotel ($35-55/night) or Sugbutel Family Hotel ($40-60/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaMarco Polo Plaza Cebu ($100-150/night) or Radisson Blu Cebu ($120-180/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly El Nido to Manila then Manila to Cebu (total 4-6 hours with layover, $100-180) or direct flights when available. Mactan-Cebu International Airport is 30 minutes from city center.
Getting Around
Habal-habal (motorcycle) for mountain trips ($15-25/day). Jeepneys within city ($0.50). Grab widely available ($2-8). Rent motorbike for flexibility ($10-15/day).
Days 9-11: Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam's charming capital offers incredible street food, rich history, and authentic Vietnamese culture in the atmospheric Old Quarter.
Things to Do
Navigate narrow streets trying pho, bun cha, and egg coffee while experiencing local life
$15-25 for guided food tourGo with empty stomach and follow the locals to busy stalls
Visit the preserved body of Vietnam's revolutionary leader and explore the surrounding museums
Free entry, dress code strictly enforcedVisit early morning and dress conservatively (no shorts, tank tops, or sandals)
Traditional Vietnamese art form featuring wooden puppets performing on water
$5-8 for ticketsBook afternoon show at Thang Long Theatre for best seats
Ride pillion on motorbikes visiting hidden local food spots around the city
$30-45 for 4-hour tourSpecify any food allergies or dietary restrictions when booking
Things to See
- Temple of Literature — Vietnam's first university (1070) dedicated to Confucius, featuring beautiful traditional architecture
- Hoan Kiem Lake — Legendary lake in city center with Ngoc Son Temple, perfect for morning walks
- Long Bien Bridge — Historic French-built railway bridge offering panoramic views, especially beautiful at sunset
What to Eat
Pho Gia Truyen or street stalls · $2-4 per bowl (verify current rates)
Bun Cha Huong Lien (Obama's restaurant) · $3-5 per serving (verify current rates)
Cafe Giang or Cafe Dinh · $1-2 per cup (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Hanoi Backpackers Hostel ($8-15/night) or Vietnam Backpacker Hostels ($10-18/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaHanoi La Siesta Hotel ($40-65/night) or Golden Sun Suites Hotel ($35-55/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaHotel de l'Opera Hanoi ($120-180/night) or Sofitel Legend Metropole ($200-300/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly Cebu to Hanoi (3-4 hours with possible layover in Manila or Singapore, $150-280). Noi Bai Airport is 45 minutes from city center via taxi ($15-20) or airport bus ($2).
Getting Around
Grab bikes widely available ($1-3 per ride). Rent motorbike for experienced riders only ($8-12/day). Walking best in Old Quarter. Taxis available but negotiate or use meter.
Day 12: Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
UNESCO World Heritage site featuring thousands of limestone karsts rising dramatically from emerald waters.
Things to Do
Classic Ha Long Bay experience with meals, kayaking, and cave exploration included
$45-120 depending on boat quality and group sizeBook 2-day/1-night tour for better value and less rushed experience
Paddle through hidden grottoes and get close to the limestone cliffs
Usually included in cruise packagesChoose single kayaks for more maneuverability if you're comfortable on water
Visit the largest and most impressive cave in Ha Long Bay with stunning stalactites
Included in most tour packagesWear non-slip shoes as cave floors can be wet and slippery
Climb 400 steps to panoramic viewpoint or relax on small sandy beach
Included in tour packagesThe viewpoint climb is worth it for incredible bay photos
Things to See
- Fighting Cocks Rock Formation — Iconic limestone pillars resembling roosters fighting, symbol of Ha Long Bay
- Floating Fishing Villages — Traditional communities living on the water, maintaining centuries-old fishing lifestyle
- Thien Cung Cave — Heavenly Palace Cave with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations
What to Eat
On boat cruise or floating restaurants · $15-25 per meal (verify current rates)
Boat cruise meals · Usually included in cruise packages
Cruise ship dining or local restaurants · $3-6 per serving (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Overnight on budget junk boat ($45-65/night including meals) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaMid-range cruise boat ($80-120/night including meals) or Ha Long Bay hotels ($40-70/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaLuxury cruise like Paradise Elegance ($180-300/night) or on-land luxury resort ($150-250/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
Book tour from Hanoi including round-trip transportation (3.5 hours each way) or take public bus to Ha Long City ($8-12) then join tour locally.
Getting Around
Transportation included in cruise packages. In Ha Long City, use taxis ($3-8) or xe om motorbike taxis ($2-5) for short distances.
Days 13-14: Hoi An, Vietnam
Perfectly preserved ancient trading port with lantern-lit streets, incredible tailors, and some of Vietnam's best cuisine.
Things to Do
Explore UNESCO World Heritage old quarter with Japanese Covered Bridge and merchant houses
$5-8 for old town ticket (valid for multiple sites)Buy the old town ticket once and use it for 5 different historical sites
Get custom-made clothes from skilled local tailors, from suits to dresses
$30-150+ depending on garment complexity and fabricAllow 2-3 days for fittings and final adjustments
Traditional round boat ride through coconut palm waterways with local fishermen
$15-25 for half-day tour including transportationTip your boat guide for the fun spinning boat tricks
Learn to make Vietnamese classics like fresh spring rolls and cao lau
$25-35 including market visit and lunchMorning classes often include market visits, afternoon classes skip the market
Things to See
- Japanese Covered Bridge — Iconic 400-year-old bridge connecting Chinese and Japanese quarters of ancient town
- Tan Ky Old House — 200-year-old merchant house showing architectural evolution through Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese influences
- An Bang Beach — Pristine white sand beach 15 minutes from town center, less crowded than Cua Dai Beach
What to Eat
Cao Lau Thanh or local restaurants · $2-4 per bowl (verify current rates)
White Rose Restaurant or street vendors · $2-3 per serving (verify current rates)
Mi Quang 1A or local eateries · $2-4 per bowl (verify current rates)
Where to Stay
Thuy Hostel ($8-15/night) or Hoi An Backpackers ($10-18/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaLittle Hoi An Central Boutique Hotel ($25-45/night) or Villa Hoi An Lodge ($35-55/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaLa Siesta Hoi An Resort ($80-130/night) or Anantara Hoi An Resort ($200-350/night) - verify current rates
Search ExpediaGetting There
From Ha Long Bay, return to Hanoi then fly to Da Nang Airport (1.5 hours, $50-100). From Da Nang, take taxi or Grab to Hoi An (45 minutes, $15-20) or bus ($2-3).
Getting Around
Rent bicycle ($2-3/day) - best way to explore the flat ancient town and reach beaches. Motorbike rentals available ($5-8/day). Walking perfect within old quarter.
Days 15-17: Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok offers an incredible mix of ancient temples, bustling street food markets, vibrant nightlife, and modern shopping that captures the essence of Thailand.
Things to Do
Visit the Temple of the Reclining Buddha and experience an authentic Thai massage at the birthplace of Thai massage
$15-25Book massage sessions in advance; they fill up quickly especially on weekends
Explore one of the world's largest weekend markets with over 15,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothes to local handicrafts
$20-50 for shoppingGo early morning to avoid crowds and heat; bring cash as many vendors don't accept cards
Take a long-tail boat tour along Bangkok's main river to see temples, local life, and floating markets
$10-30Take the public boat express for a cheaper alternative to tourist boats
Experience Bangkok's famous backpacker street with street food, bars, and live music
$15-40Start early evening for dinner then stay for drinks; prices increase as night goes on
Things to See
- Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew — Bangkok's most sacred temple complex and former royal residence featuring stunning Thai architecture and the Emerald Buddha
- Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) — Iconic riverside temple with a towering spire offering panoramic views of Bangkok and the Chao Phraya River
- Jim Thompson House — Beautiful traditional Thai house museum showcasing Southeast Asian art and the story of the American silk entrepreneur
What to Eat
Street vendors near Khao San Road or Chatuchak Market · $2-4
Local restaurants in Chinatown or Thip Samai · $3-6
Mae Varee or street dessert vendors · $2-3
Where to Stay
Hostels in Khao San Road area ($8-15/night)
Search ExpediaBoutique hotels in Sukhumvit or Silom ($30-60/night)
Search ExpediaLuxury hotels like Mandarin Oriental or The Peninsula ($150-300/night)
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly from previous destination to Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK) airports. Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi to city center in 30 minutes for $1.50.
Getting Around
BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are efficient for main areas ($1-2 per ride). Taxis and Grab are affordable. Tuk-tuks are fun but negotiate price first.
Days 18-20: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is Thailand's cultural heart, surrounded by mountains and home to over 300 temples, incredible street food, and authentic hill tribe experiences.
Things to Do
Visit Chiang Mai's most sacred temple atop a mountain for sunrise views and Buddhist ceremonies
$10-15 including transportTake a songthaew (red truck taxi) early morning; entrance fee includes temple access and views
Spend a day at a reputable sanctuary feeding, bathing, and learning about elephant conservation
$60-80Book with sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park that don't allow riding; includes transportation and lunch
Learn to cook authentic Thai dishes starting with a market tour to select fresh ingredients
$25-40Morning classes often include market visits; you'll cook 5-6 dishes and get recipe cards
Browse the famous Wualai Road night market for handicrafts, street food, and local art
$15-30 for food/shoppingArrives early to avoid crowds; bargaining is expected for handicrafts but not food
Things to See
- Old City Temples — Explore ancient temples within the old city walls including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh with stunning Lanna architecture
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar — Historic market area perfect for souvenir shopping, local handicrafts, and experiencing the evening atmosphere
- Wat Umong Tunnel Temple — Unique 700-year-old temple featuring meditation tunnels, ancient Buddha statues, and peaceful forest grounds
What to Eat
Khao Soi Khun Yai or local shophouses near old city · $2-4
Saturday Walking Street vendors or Warorot Market · $1-3
Local restaurants or food courts like Chang Puak Market · $2-3
Where to Stay
Hostels in old city or Nimman area ($6-12/night)
Search ExpediaBoutique hotels or guesthouses ($20-45/night)
Search ExpediaLuxury resorts like Four Seasons or Dhara Dhevi ($120-250/night)
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly from Bangkok (1.5 hours, $40-80) or take overnight train/bus ($15-25). Chiang Mai airport is 10 minutes from city center.
Getting Around
Rent a scooter ($5-8/day) for flexibility. Red songthaews (shared taxis) cost $1-3 per ride. Grab is available but limited.
Days 21-23: Phuket, Thailand
Phuket combines stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, excellent diving, and serves as a gateway to some of Thailand's most beautiful islands.
Things to Do
Take a speedboat tour to the famous Phi Phi Islands including Maya Bay, snorkeling, and beach time
$35-55Book early bird tours to avoid crowds at Maya Bay; includes lunch and snorkeling gear
Experience Phuket's most famous beach during the day and vibrant nightlife scene after dark
$20-50 for drinks/activitiesBeach chairs cost extra; Bangla Road gets busy after 9pm with go-go bars and clubs
Visit Phuket's iconic 45-meter Buddha statue and the island's most important Buddhist temple
$5-10 including transportCombine both in one trip; dress modestly and go late afternoon for fewer crowds and good photos
Experience world-class diving with excellent visibility and diverse marine life suitable for all levels
$70-90 for 2 divesBook with PADI certified operators; includes equipment, lunch, and transportation
Things to See
- Old Phuket Town — Explore colorful Sino-Portuguese architecture, street art, cafes, and local markets in the historic district
- Promthep Cape Viewpoint — Phuket's most famous sunset viewing spot offering panoramic views over the Andaman Sea and nearby islands
- Kata and Karon Beaches — Beautiful sandy beaches with clear water, less crowded than Patong, perfect for swimming and relaxation
What to Eat
Beachfront restaurants at Patong or Kata Beach · $8-15
Local restaurants in Old Phuket Town · $3-5
Beach vendors or juice bars throughout the island · $2-4
Where to Stay
Hostels in Patong or Kata ($10-18/night)
Search ExpediaBeach hotels or resorts ($40-80/night)
Search ExpediaLuxury beachfront resorts like Amanpuri or Banyan Tree ($200-400/night)
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly from Chiang Mai (2 hours, $60-120) or Bangkok (1.5 hours, $50-100). Airport buses to main beaches cost $2-5.
Getting Around
Rent a scooter ($8-12/day) for freedom to explore. Tuk-tuks are expensive but convenient. Grab available but surge pricing common.
Days 24-26: Ubud, Indonesia
Ubud is Bali's cultural and spiritual center, surrounded by rice terraces, ancient temples, and offering yoga, art, and authentic Balinese experiences.
Things to Do
Walk through stunning emerald rice paddies and experience traditional Balinese agriculture with photo opportunities
$3-5 entrance feeVisit early morning or late afternoon for best light; bring cash for entrance fees and photo spots
Explore ancient temple ruins while observing playful long-tailed macaques in their natural habitat
$3Don't carry food or loose items; monkeys will grab anything shiny including sunglasses
Learn to prepare authentic dishes using traditional techniques and fresh ingredients from local markets
$30-45Classes often include market tours and spice garden visits; you'll eat what you cook
Trek up an active volcano for spectacular sunrise views over the crater lake and surrounding mountains
$35-50 with guideEarly 2am pickup required; bring warm clothes as it's cold at the summit
Things to See
- Ubud Art Market — Browse traditional handicrafts, textiles, wood carvings, and souvenirs in this bustling traditional market
- Tirta Empul Temple — Sacred water temple where locals and visitors participate in purification rituals at holy spring pools
- Campuhan Ridge Walk — Scenic hiking trail through tropical hills offering panoramic views of Ubud's lush valleys and rivers
What to Eat
Local warungs around central Ubud market area · $2-4
Bebek Bengil or traditional restaurants · $8-12
Roadside stands and local markets · $1-3
Where to Stay
Guesthouses and hostels in central Ubud ($8-15/night)
Search ExpediaBoutique hotels with rice field views ($25-60/night)
Search ExpediaLuxury jungle resorts like Four Seasons or Amandari ($180-350/night)
Search ExpediaGetting There
Fly from Phuket to Ngurah Rai Airport, Denpasar (2.5 hours, $80-150). Take taxi or private transfer to Ubud (1 hour, $15-25).
Getting Around
Rent a scooter ($5-8/day) to explore rice terraces and temples. Walking is pleasant in central Ubud. Private drivers available for day trips ($25-35).
Days 27-28: Seminyak/Canggu, Indonesia
These trendy beach towns offer world-class surfing, beach clubs, incredible sunsets, and Bali's best restaurants and nightlife scene.
Things to Do
Learn to surf at one of Bali's most famous surf breaks with professional instructors and board rental
$25-35 for 2-hour lessonEarly morning lessons have better waves and fewer crowds; board rental only costs $8-12/day
Experience Bali's famous beach club scene at venues like Potato Head, Ku De Ta, or La Brisa
$30-60 for drinks/foodArrive before sunset for best tables; some clubs have minimum spend requirements on weekends
Visit Bali's most photographed temple perched on a rock formation in the ocean during golden hour
$5 entrance feeVery crowded at sunset; arrive 2 hours early to secure good viewing spots
Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and dine at some of Indonesia's best restaurants
$40-80 for dinnerMake reservations at popular restaurants like Merah Putih or Sarong; shops often negotiate prices
Things to See
- Double Six Beach — Popular Seminyak beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachfront dining with colorful umbrellas
- Canggu Rice Fields — Scenic emerald rice paddies just minutes from the beach, perfect for walking or cycling
- Pererenan Beach — Black sand beach popular with surfers and less crowded than main Canggu beaches
What to Eat
Beachfront restaurants with tables in the sand · $12-20
Trendy cafes like Crate Cafe or Betelnut · $6-10
Local coffee shops or Revolver Espresso · $3-8
Where to Stay
Hostels and guesthouses in Canggu ($10-20/night)
Search ExpediaBoutique beach hotels ($35-75/night)
Search ExpediaLuxury beach resorts like The Legian or W Bali ($150-300/night)
Search ExpediaGetting There
30-45 minute drive from Ubud by taxi, scooter, or private driver ($8-15). Both areas are well-connected by main coastal roads.
Getting Around
Rent a scooter ($6-10/day) to easily move between Seminyak and Canggu. Taxis available but can be expensive during peak hours.
Visa Requirements
Philippines: US citizens get 30 days visa-free.
Vietnam: E-visa required ($25, apply online before travel).
Thailand: Up to 60 days visa-exempt for US tourists (verify with Royal Thai Embassy).
Indonesia (Bali): Visa on arrival (~$35 as of April 2026).
All countries require passport valid 6+ months. Verify all requirements before travel.
eTravel (mandatory): All travelers to the Philippines must complete the eTravel registration within 72 hours before arrival. Have your QR code ready at immigration.
Packing Tips
- Pack light — you move between countries frequently
- Universal power adapter (different plugs in each country)
- Rain jacket — monsoon patterns vary by country
- Reef-safe sunscreen for island stops
- Copies of all visas and confirmations (phone + printed)
- See our full packing guide
Honest Downsides
- Fast-paced with 5+ flights — transit fatigue typically hits hardest around the Vietnam-to-Thailand transition and the final Thailand-to-Bali leg
- You only scratch the surface of each country
- Visa requirements differ per country — verify all before departure
- Budget can escalate quickly with frequent flights
- Four different cuisines in four weeks — stomach adjustments are real