12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (2024)

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Explore the Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia Save this! Relax on the Beaches of Bali, Indonesia Cruise Ha Long Bay, Vietnam Trek Through the Jungles of Borneo, Malaysia Experience the Culture in Luang Prabang, Laos Dive in the Coral Triangle, Philippines Wander Through the Markets of Bangkok, Thailand Discover the Ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand Explore the Rice Terraces of Banaue, Philippines Chill Out in Vang Vieng, Laos Island-Hop in the Andaman Sea, Thailand Visit the Cultural Heart of Yogyakarta, Indonesia Asia 12 Most Beautiful Beaches in Southeast Asia That Will Make You Book Your Ticket ASAP Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for 2024 and Five Must-Visit Destinations Bali Vacations – 29 Must-Know Tips Before You Go 12 Visa-Free Asian Destinations for American Tourists Phuket with Kids | Best Things to Do | Where to Stay Bali with Kids | Best Things to Do | Where to Stay Travel Tips 12 Caribbean Getaways So Expensive and Luxurious They’ll Make You Think Twice About Your Travel Budget 12 European Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas—Because Your Office View Could Use a European Upgrade 12 Epic Adventures for Couples in the World That’ll Make You Reimagine Your Relationship Goals 12 Non-Schengen Countries in Europe That’ll Make You Wonder Why You Ever Stuck to the Usual Destinations 12 Caribbean Tourist Traps That Aren’t Worth Your Time (Or Your Money) 12 Most Beautiful Flags in the World That Are More Than Just Symbols 12 Destinations in Portugal That Should Be on Every First-Timer’s Bucket List Get Your Daily Travel Inspiration Follow Us Travel Planning Resources FAQs References

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Whether you’re a backpacker, a luxury traveler, or juggling a vacation with little ones, Southeast Asia has something for you. From the hectic streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of Bali, you could easily fill a 10-page bucket list with trips from this corner of the world.

Over the last three months, I have been lucky enough to travel across Southeast Asia and experience much of what this region has to offer. But with so many incredible destinations to visit, it can be hard to know what locations are best suited for you and those you are traveling with.

Fear not; we have put together a list of the 12 best Southeast Asian destinations for your next trip. Covering all interests, you’ll find ancient temples for history enthusiasts, white sandy shores for beach bums, and dense jungles for true adventurers. Let’s dive in!

Explore the Temples of Angkor Wat, Cambodia

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Angkor Wat, located near Siem Reap, Cambodia, holds the Guinness World Record for the largest religious structure in the world. Built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. The complex spans over 400 acres and includes numerous temples, the most famous being the Angkor Wat temple itself. It’s well worth rising early for the sunset here, where the reflection of the temple reflects on the surrounding moat, and incredible pink/red hues cover the sky.

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Beyond the main temple, you can explore other notable structures like Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces, and Ta Prohm, where trees intertwine with ancient ruins. The latter will have you feeling like you’ve stepped foot into an Indiana Jones movie. Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor, should also be visited, where you can enjoy its night markets, excellent dining options, and traditional Apsara dance performances.

Read also:Top Exotic Beach Destinations

Relax on the Beaches of Bali, Indonesia

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Bali is a dream destination for surfers and beach lovers alike. With its picturesque landscapes, Bali is famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and world-class waves. Kuta Beach is known for its busy nightlife and surf culture, while Seminyak offers a more upscale beach experience with luxury resorts and trendy beach clubs.

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For those seeking tranquility, Uluwatu and Nusa Dua provide a more laid-back vibe with cliffside views and secluded beaches. Beyond the sand, Bali is rich in culture and spirituality, with numerous temples like Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot offering stunning sunset views.

Read also:Best Hidden Beaches in the World

Cruise Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

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Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of towering limestone islands topped with rainforests. Located in northern Vietnam, this stunning seascape is best explored by boat. A typical Ha Long Bay cruise includes visits to secluded coves, caves, and its iconic floating fishing villages.

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You can also enjoy an afternoon kayaking through hidden lagoons or hiking on one of the larger islands like Cat Ba Island. For an even more memorable experience, opt for an overnight cruise and wake up to the sunrise.

Read also:Top Tropical Destinations Across The World

Trek Through the Jungles of Borneo, Malaysia

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For adventure seekers, Borneo’s dense jungles offer an incredible experience of wildlife and nature. Borneo, shared by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei, is home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world and an otherworldly array of biodiversity. In Malaysian Borneo, Sabah and Sarawak are the main regions to explore.

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The Danum Valley Conservation Area in Sabah is a pristine rainforest that shelters rare species like orangutans, pygmy elephants, and clouded leopards. For a real adventure, climb Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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Experience the Culture in Luang Prabang, Laos

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Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Laos, is a charming city that perfectly blends traditional Lao culture with French colonial influences. Located at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang is known for its well-preserved temples, busy night markets, and serene atmosphere.

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The town is famous for its daily alms-giving ceremony (known as Tak Bat), where monks clad in saffron robes collect offerings from locals and visitors at dawn. Key attractions include the golden Wat Xieng Thong, Mount Phousi, which offers panoramic views of the town, and the nearby Kuang Si Waterfall, a stunning multi-tiered cascade with turquoise pools that just beg you to take a refreshing dip.

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Dive in the Coral Triangle, Philippines

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The Philippines is part of the Coral Triangle, a marine area known for its incredible biodiversity and some of the best diving spots in the world. In fact, 75% of the world’s coral species can be found here – including whales, sea turtles, and blue whales.

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Diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will want to head over to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where there are over 600 species of fish, sharks, and manta rays. Beyond diving, the Philippines offers pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, and island-hopping adventures that are perfect for water enthusiasts.

Read also:Amazing Tropical Beaches

Wander Through the Markets of Bangkok, Thailand

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (7)

Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, is a city that never sleeps and is home to a fascinating blend of the old and new. Start your journey by exploring the Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha, and Wat Pho, where you can marvel at the giant reclining Buddha. After soaking in the cultural sights, dive into Bangkok’s delicious street food scene at places like Chinatown or the famous (but equally crazy) Khao San Road.

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No visit to Bangkok is complete without experiencing its markets. The Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest in the world, offering everything from souvenirs to local delicacies. For a more unique experience, visit the floating markets like Damnoen Saduak, where vendors sell goods directly from their boats – just don’t fall in the canals.

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Discover the Ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (8)

Ayutthaya, once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, is a historical park located just north of Bangkok. Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya was one of the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan urban areas during its peak. Today, its ruins offer a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history, with numerous temples, palaces, and statues scattered across the park.

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Key sites include Wat Mahathat, where the iconic Buddha head is entwined within the roots of a tree, and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the former royal temple. If the weather is suitable, we recommend hiring a bicycle to explore the expansive ruins, as there’s a lot to see.

Read also:Incredible Underwater Experiences

Explore the Rice Terraces of Banaue, Philippines

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (9)

The Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines are often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” These terraces, carved into the mountains of Ifugao over 2,000 years ago by indigenous people, are a marvel of ancient engineering. The terraces are still in use today, showcasing the enduring agricultural traditions of the Ifugao people.

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Visitors can trek through the terraces, interact with the local communities, and learn about the cultural practices that have been passed down through generations. The nearby Batad Rice Terraces are even more remote and offer a more rugged trekking experience, with stunning views of the amphitheater-like terraces.

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Chill Out in Vang Vieng, Laos

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (10)

Vang Vieng, once known as a party town, has transformed into an adventure and eco-tourism hub. Nestled along the Nam Song River, the town is surrounded by limestone mountains, caves, and lush greenery. Popular activities include tubing down the river, hot air ballooning, and exploring the Tham Chang and Tham Phu Kham caves.

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Vang Vieng is also a haven for rock climbing, with numerous routes available for both beginners and advanced climbers. For a more relaxed experience, enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere, with riverside bars and restaurants offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

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Island-Hop in the Andaman Sea, Thailand

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (11)

Thailand’s Andaman Sea lays claim to some of the most beautiful islands in Southeast Asia. The Phi Phi Islands, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s “The Beach,” offer stunning turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a vibrant nightlife. Maya Bay – the beach made famous by the 2000s blockbuster – closed for a period but is now open with sustainability restrictions and remains a top highlight.

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For a more tranquil escape, head to Koh Lanta, where you can enjoy relaxed beaches, lush mangroves, and vibrant coral reefs. Another must-visit is Koh Tao, the quieter cousin to the local party islands and a great place to master diving.

Read also:Awesome White Sand Beaches

Visit the Cultural Heart of Yogyakarta, Indonesia

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (12)

Yogyakarta, often referred to as Jogja, is the cultural heart of Java, Indonesia. This vibrant city is famous for its traditional arts, including batik, wayang (shadow puppetry), and gamelan music. The city is also a gateway to two of Indonesia’s most significant historical sites: Borobudur and Prambanan.

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Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views. Nearby, the Prambanan Temple, another UNESCO Site, is a magnificent Hindu temple complex known for its towering spires. Yogyakarta itself offers a rich cultural experience, with its lively markets, traditional cuisine, and the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton) serving as the city’s cultural hub.

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12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (27)

Daniel John

Daniel is a freelance copywriter and content manager, working for clients across industries from automotive to travel. After being truly bitten alive by the ‘travel bug,’ you’ll find Daniel with his camera(s) locked and loaded wherever there are mountains, lakes, or beaches.

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List (2024)

FAQs

12 Unmissable Southeast Asia Trips That Deserve a Spot on Your Bucket List? ›

Countries in Southeast Asia dazzle with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts from Vietnam's Ha Long Bay to Borneo's jungles and Bali's rice fields. Southeast Asia is a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, each with unique traditions and landmarks.

Why Southeast Asia is the best tourist destination? ›

Countries in Southeast Asia dazzle with pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts from Vietnam's Ha Long Bay to Borneo's jungles and Bali's rice fields. Southeast Asia is a rich tapestry of diverse cultures, each with unique traditions and landmarks.

What is the most visited place in Southeast Asia? ›

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is not only one of the most top visited capital cities in Southeast Asia, but in the world, welcoming over 20 million visitors each year.

What is the best thing about Southeast Asia? ›

Temperatures are generally warm, although it is cooler in highland areas. Many sea and jungle products are unique to the region, and were therefore much desired by international traders in early times. For example, several small islands in eastern Indonesia were once the world's only source of cloves, nutmeg, and mace.

Why should I travel to Southeast Asia? ›

Its relative affordability allows your budget to stretch longer, and the tourist infrastructure of most countries works best if you try not to overplan, but instead, take things as they come. If you have the time and flexibility, Southeast Asia is the perfect region to plan-as-you-go, setting off to wherever moves you.

What is the number 1 destination in Asia? ›

Bangkok. Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers.

What is most beautiful country in Southeast Asia? ›

7 Most Beautiful Places in Southeast Asia
  1. Bali, Indonesia. Bali may be the destination you are thinking of if you want to travel to Southeast Asia. ...
  2. Koh Rong, Cambodia. ...
  3. Halong Bay, Vietnam. ...
  4. Bagan, Myanmar. ...
  5. Luang Prabang, Laos. ...
  6. Boracay and El Nido, Philippine. ...
  7. Koh Phi Phi, Thailand.

Where to visit for the first time in Asia? ›

Japan: Tokyo and Kyoto

China and Japan are often called The Big Two of Asia. Japan is another ultimate destination for first-time travelers, interested in learning about the diversity of Asian cultures. If you want to immerse yourself more in Japanese culture, it's time to leave Japan and head for Kyoto.

What is the biggest problem in Southeast Asia? ›

In a survey conducted in ten Southeast Asian countries in 2024, a huge share of respondents across all countries saw unemployment and economic recession as the biggest challenge faced by the region in 2024.

How long should you travel in Southeast Asia? ›

Quality over quantity should certainly become your mantra. Although there's no point whizzing from country to country ticking off temples as you go, it is possible to take a shortish tour of two weeks or even nine days that allows you to understand where you are and what you're experiencing.

How do I prepare for a trip to Southeast Asia? ›

We highly recommend you make digital copies of important documents like your passport, ID, driver's license, travel insurance, and any other relevant paperwork. Save these copies on your phone or in the cloud as a backup for unexpected situations during your journey.

How to spend 2 weeks in Southeast Asia? ›

Southeast Asia Two-Week Itinerary
  1. Days 1-3: Bangkok, Thailand. ...
  2. Day 4-6: Chiang Mai. ...
  3. Day 10-12: Siem Reap/Angkor Wat, Cambodia. ...
  4. Days 11-13: Luang Prabang. ...
  5. Days 14-16: Vang Vieng. ...
  6. Days 17-19: Vientiane. ...
  7. Week 2: Ancient Thai Capitals and National Parks. ...
  8. Week 3: Chiang Mai and Jungle Trekking.
Aug 27, 2024

What makes Southeast Asia special? ›

It also has been of great importance that Southeast Asia, which is the most easily accessible tropical region in the world, lies strategically astride the sea passage between East Asia and the Middle Eastern–Mediterranean world. Within this broad outline, Southeast Asia is perhaps the most diverse region on Earth.

What makes Southeast Asia unique from each other? ›

One of the most diverse regions in the world

ASEAN is home to hundreds of different ethnic groups, each with their own distinct culture and traditions. Southeast Asia is a region of enormous linguistic diversity where thousands of languages are spoken.

How does tourism benefit Southeast Asia? ›

As tourism in Southeast Asia contributes highly to the GDP, many countries are dependent on tourism to stimulate their newly emerging economies. In addition to the monetary value, the tourism industry contributes significantly to employment in Southeast Asian countries.

Which country in Southeast Asia is best to visit? ›

12 Best Places to Visit in South East Asia
  • Krabi, Thailand. ...
  • Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. ...
  • Chiang Mai, Thailand. ...
  • Luang Prabang, Laos. ...
  • Siem Reap, Cambodia. ...
  • Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. ...
  • Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. ...
  • Bali, Indonesia.
Apr 4, 2024

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