The Ultimate 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary for You! (Expert Advice)

With more than a dozen countries in Southeast Asia, 4 weeks/1month can satisfy your ambitions to travel to many places. Check out recommended plans for your 4 weeks/1 month in Southeast Asia and expert advice.

Content Overview

Where to Go in Your 4 Weeks in Southeast Asia
A Classic 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary
How Much Is a 4-Week Trip to Southeast Asia?
Guided or Independent Tours?

Where to Go in Your 4-Week Southeast Asia Trip

4 weeks is suitable for visiting about 5 countries. When picking the destinations among the over 10 Southeast Asia countries, choose multi-faceted ones.

Islands and beaches must be an important element for your Southeast Asian trip. Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines are nice choices. They all have beautiful beaches. But if you want to experience other aspects besides beaches, Thailand is more recommended as it is rich in attractions, like elephants and temples.

Bali

Vietnam offers a relaxing feeling. A cruise to see the karst landscape, exploring the busy lives of people in the Mekong Delta and a "mixed" vibe of colonial history and national struggles make Vietnam a charming place to explore.

Ho Chi Minh City

Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar have their own profound and distinctive aspects of Buddhist religion and ethnic culture.

The world's largest temple complex at Angkor Wat in Cambodia tells a huge amount about SE Asia's history and religion. Myanmar's Bagan, with more than 2,000 pagodas, best seen silhouetted at sunset, shows you a romantic side of religion. Early morning alms in Laos give you a sense of Buddhist purity.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Singapore, compared to other countries, is less prominent as a tourist destination. There are not many attractions, but the most popular include Merlion Park, Universal Studios, and some big events, like the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix from September 30th to October 2nd in 2022.

Merlion Park, Singapore

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar are the most popular combo for a 4-week tour in Southeast Asia. They harbor the most distinctive elements of Southeast Asia — beaches, temples, religious vibe, exotic food, elephants, and rainforest.

Still Cannot Decide

What we suggest is a more comprehensive option. However, the choice of destination varies from person to person. For example, many of our customers choose to go to both Thailand and Bali because they love the beaches. That could also be awesome.

Free feel to tell us your preferences and requirements. We will make a trip based on your ideas. If you don't have some ideas now, you can check our Best Southeast Asia Tour Packages for inspiration.

We promise you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒).

Recommended Itinerary

28-Day Grand Indochina Tour Myanmar - Vietnam - Laos - Cambodia - Thailand

China Highlights, Asia Highlights, and Global Highlights collaborate to provide families and couples with personalized and stress-free experiences in diverse destinations.

Great Experience

WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy

Stephen Hollis, Aug 2023

Alisa has has been great to work with

Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive.

Ana Rausch, Aug 2023

Using Sharon right now to book our…

Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand

Tracy, Aug 2023

Thailand, Singapore, Bali

In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze.

Cassi Thunker, Jul 2023

Very supportive

Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast

Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c, Jul 2023

My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights

I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism.

Richard, Jul 2023

A pleasure to plan with

Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans.

Chris Williams, Jul 2023

Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand

The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again.

CL, Jul 2023

I never used a travel agent in my life

I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience.

Antione Barry, Jul 2023

Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia!

Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional.

Debi Hinerfeld, Jul 2023

We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand …

It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ????

SIMO el ghobar, Jun 2023

Wonderful Guides and Experience

Our large group arrived in Bangkok with Tanni as our guide. She was wonderful! An absolute joy to spend time with. She is knowledgeable, kind, and extremely funny. I don’t know what we would have done without her! After Bangkok, we traveled to Chang Mai, where Indy was our tour guide. She was a delight! She is kind, knowledgeable, and so patient. Our trip to Thailand was an adventure of a lifetime and these two women helped make it memorable. I would definitely use Asia Highlights for any future travel in Asia.

Jessica Bennett, Jun 2023

Guide - Chai

We travelled from Vietnam to Bangkok and were blessed to have a guide named Chai. He was a superb guide and it is a pity we couldn't bottle him and take him home. He was very knowledgeable and an absolute gentleman. He could not have done enough to facilitate us and imparted so much knowledge about the Temples, Buddism and the History of Thailand in general. Not only did he give us a great overview of the past and current ways of living in Thailand but I also feel I came away a much better person having interacting with him. I will carry many of his teachings with me for the rest of my life and know that having met him was a very special blessing in my life.

Customer, Jun 2023

Our guide Tanni was kind

Our guide Tanni was kind, knowledgeable, funny and beyond accommodating for our group. We felt like we'd made a friend and it enhanced our trip in the most positive way. Everything was coordinated perfectly which is not easy to do in a large traveling group. Excellent experience!

Marissa Manson, Jun 2023

We are only on day 5 of our 15 day trip…

Our first stop so far was in Hanoi where our guide Trong was just so awesome! He shared about his culture and family life which showing us sites through a city tour. He was so funny making lots of jokes and always made sure we were having fun while learning about everything! He checked on us frequently even when we were no longer with him since we then went on a cruise in Halong Bay! Halong Bay and the cruise on Paradise Elegance went way above anything I expected. The scenery was breathtaking, the ship was so beautiful and clean with such fresh, good food! And I can’t sing enough praise for the staff who took care of us- especially Anna and Belle! They went above and beyond to make sure we enjoyed every aspect from eating meals with Anna to every other detail with Belle! I highly recommend Asian Highlights to help plan these extraordinary trips! This already has been a trip of a lifetime and we still have so much more to see all thanks to Cathy!!

Diane Creitz, Jun 2023

Tanni for the win!

14 of my closest friends and family descended upon Bangkok ready to see the town. Asia highlights and Tanni took us on a tour that changed our lives. We experienced so much everyday. Tanni was amazing! She did all the thinking for us, so we all could just be present and enjoy the moment. I can’t recommend this company, and especially Tanni enough.

Megan McGlynn, Jun 2023

This isn't my first trip with Asia…

This isn't my first trip with Asia Highlights. They are great at helping me plan, working my requests into the itinerary, and booking it all. We travel with friends and just got back from a trip to Thailand and Vietnam. Albee did a great job with all the details and we had a wonderful time. We will use them for our next adventure!

Katie Potesta, Jun 2023

Amazing service

Although we have not been our trip yet I wanted to still write a review based on customer service and the ease of booking. Alisa has been extremely prompt and responsive with planning our trip to Thailand. She has had great recommendations and guidance to add to our custom itinerary. Highly recommend using Asia highlights! -Alex

Alex, May 2023

I have never hear of this company…

I have never hear of this company before , and after reading all these reviews ,I decided to give it a try . The professionalism and communicative skill received by one of the agent , Sharon of Asia Highlights , convince me that She was the right travel agent for my trip in Asia . Very quickly she communicated with me and got all the detail of my desire vacation . Sharon made me a great itinerary with great experiences that I am dreaming to experience and I am looking forward to it . Thanks Sharon for been so great and crafting me a dream vacation with great suggestions.

orge alvarez, May 2023

Coco Yang worked tirelessly to…

From the moment I landed in Bangkok, Ms Noi Ying was there to welcome me and get me settled into my hotel. We enjoyed several days together touring Bangkok and Kanchanaburi. In Chiang Mai, Mr Ekachai took my son snd I on an amazing trip to the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary and to visit a community Lanna home, gardens and a hands-on cooking class preparing an authentic Thai meal. Lisa arranged a last-minute speedboat tour of 5 breathtaking islands in Phuket. From start to finish, the guides exceeded my expectations!! Thank you, Asia Highlight!! Debbie Woods

Debbie Woods, May 2023

A Classic 4-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar

Considering the overall tour experience and transport connections, usually our route goes Myanmar–Vietnam–Laos–Cambodia–Thailand.

Myanmar and Vietnam, rich in attractions and activities, are good to place at the start of the trip. Laos and Cambodia, centering around temple visiting, are suitable for the middle part, and finally end at Thailand's beaches.

However, due to the changeable flights as Southeast Asia tourism resumes post COVID restrictions, plans may need to be adjusted sometimes. Our consultant will work out the most convenient and appropriate route for you.

8 Days in Myanmar

Sunset in Bagan

Myanmar's central and northern regions are its highlights, where you can see splendid pagodas and temples and stunning photogenic views.

In the central region, the main places to visit are Mandalay and Bagan. Mandalay Palace is the main attraction. The sunset over U Bein Bridge cannot be missed, which is perfect for taking pictures. There are also many monasteries worth a visit, like Bargaya Monastery, where you can witness thousands of monks dining at lunchtime.

Bagan shows its greatest beauty at sunset and sunrise. You can get the best sunset/sunrise views of the pagoda-filled plains from a hot air balloon. Bagan Archaeological Zone is an important visit where you can see pagodas and temples built in various historical periods.

Inle Lake in the south is the best place in Myanmar for a leisurely cruise. Light hiking and riding are also available there. The largest city, Yangon, is also in the south. The Colonial District and National Museum are best for discovering the history of the city. Visit the local market and take a train ride to see the city's street life.

>>>Planning a Myanmar Trip: 13 Expert Tips for Beginners

Suggested Myanmar itinerary:

Mandalay (2 days)
Bagan (2 days)
Inle Lake (2 days)
Yangon (2 days)

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8 Days in Vietnam

Vietnam's south, central area, and north all have their own features. So, it typically needs 8 days to tour the highlights of each part.

In the south, the main areas to visit are Ho Chi Minh City and the famous Mekong River. The Mekong Delta's natural views and local life cannot be missed.

Ancient towns and beaches are the highlights of its central cities like Hoi An. Hoi An Ancient Town mixes Japanese and Chinese styles.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam in the north features karst landscapes and ethnic customs. A cruise to Halong Bay would be a great break. A peaceful night under the stars in the vast water of Halong Bay is terrific.

>>>How to Plan Your First Trip to Vietnam

Halong Bay

Suggested Vietnam itinerary:

Ho Chi Minh City & Mekong Delta (2 days)
Hoi An (2 days)
Hanoi (2 days)
Halong Bay (2 days)

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3 Days in Laos

It won't take much time to see the main highlights of Laos as they are all in Luang Prabang. If you have more time, you can visit Vientiane, its capital. Various temples are the main attractions.

In Luang Prabang, alms giving to monks in the early morning is the big draw. Also popular are Wat Xieng Thong Temple — the most famous temple in Laos, Royal Palace Museum — the residence of the last king of Laos, a traditional weaving center, Kuangsi Waterfall, and more.

>>>How to Plan a Trip to Laos

Alms giving in Laos

Suggested Laos itinerary:

Luang Prabang (3 days)

2 Days in Cambodia

Similar to Laos, Cambodia is not a big country of many destinations. The biggest and most famous attraction is undoubtedly Angkor Wat in Siem Reap.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is a large temple complex, but you can visit 4–5 sites in a day. The sunset at Angkor Wat is wonderful. Phnom Bakheng, a hill in the complex, is good for the spectacular panoramic views from its summit and enjoying sunsets.

Cambodia Landmine Museum, Tonle Sap Lake, and Banteay Srei — also known as the Citadel of the Women — are also worth a visit.

>>>How to Plan a Trip to Siem Reap

Suggested Cambodia itinerary:

Siem Reap (2 days)

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7 Days in Thailand

As the final stop, Thailand's itinerary is usually arranged to include a city and an island — relaxed but still experiential.

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, should be on the list. You can feel Bangkok's charm through the Grand Palace, lively local markets, and a dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River.

Chao Phraya River

Phuket and Koh Samui are the two popular islands in Thailand. Phuket is the most chosen for its easier accessibility and diverse options for activities and prices. See more on Phuket vs Koh Samui: Which is Better?

>>>How to Plan Your First Trip to Thailand — 7 Easy Steps

Suggested Thailand itinerary:

Bangkok (2 days)
An island (Phuket or Koh Samui) (5 days)

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How Much Is a 4-Week Trip to Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia offers good value for money. For the price of a mediocre restaurant in Western countries, you can enjoy a superb meal at a Michelin-starred establishment in Southeast Asia.

If you have a lower budget, you will need around 180–200 USD/day per person (including air fare within Southeast Asia, 3-star hotel, lunch, attractions, guide and transfers). 4 weeks is about 5500–6000 USD.
For a medium budget, it will cost around 200–250 USD per day per person (including air fare within Southeast Asia, 4-star hotel, lunch, attractions, guide and transfers). Thus, it may cost about 6,000–7,500 USD for 4 weeks.
For a higher budget, US$250–350 per day per person is needed (including air fare within Southeast Asia, 5-star hotel, lunch, attractions, guide and transfers). The cost for 4 weeks is around 7,500-10,000 USD.

>>>Planning a Trip to Southeast Asia: A Beginner's Guide

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19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia Experience the Splendor of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Guided or Independent Tours?

Although Southeast Asia is a paradise for backpacking, it has its drawbacks. With an independent tour, you must handle all things by yourself: booking the transport and hotels, making detailed itineraries… But, you may be unfamiliar with these countries and will probably face unexpected events, especially if yours is a multi-country trip.

With a guided tour, all you need to do is concentrate on fully enjoying your holiday. With a well-planned itinerary created by an expert travel consultant, you can make the most of your vacation without unnecessary stress or missing out on the best of every city.

With private transport, you can reduce your time on the road, and spend more at the highlights. With a local guide, you can learn more of the culture's secrets and stories behind the attractions. He/she can help you travel safely and solve any problems — expected or unexpected.

Thus, a guided tour is recommended if you don't have much time to sit and plan. Contact us to create a worry-free tour.

Contacting Us for a Booking/Inquiry

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your trip based on your group size, interests, budget, and other needs. For a personalized tour and quote, sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

Or start from a recommended fully-modifiable itinerary:

Why Travel with Asia Highlights (98.8% positive customer reviews among 10,000+)

Unique experiences tailored to your interests: Enjoy a premium trip that goes beyond the typical tourist attractions.
Hassle-free travel and peace of mind: Every aspect of your trip will be carefully planned and organized by your 1:1 travel consultant.
Experienced and knowledgeable guides: Your guides will be local and love to work for travelers' smiles.

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