1 month in Southeast Asia itineraries and guide

enjoying the hike in Sa pa in the beautiful  rice field

Planning a trip to Southeast Asia is like crafting a masterpiece—each destination adds a unique stroke of wonder to your travel canvas!

But let’s be honest: planning a trip across multiple countries can feel like solving a complex puzzle, especially when you’re trying to tackle an entire region like Southeast Asia.

Don’t worry, I’m here to help you create the perfect itinerary with travel budgeting strategies that maximizes your time and experiences without breaking the bank.

Malaysia 7 days

 

Kuala Lumpur: day 1-4

the twin tower in Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia serves as Southeast Asia’s travel gateway, offering easy and affordable access to the region’s top destinations.

Start off in the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur.

My first advice to you is do not sleep😅. I landed early in the morning—and trust me, the 11-hour flight from Tunisia had me feeling like a zombie, and when I slept in Kuala Lumpur, I ended up staying awake the whole night. So, don’t sleep if you arrive early; be strong until night.

The city quickly woke me up with its vibrant energy.

  • Spend your days exploring the iconic Petronas Twin Towers; the view from the sky bridge is worth every penny.
  • Head over to the Batu Caves. It’s a bit of a trek, 30 minutes by train, but I promise, the colorful temples and cheeky monkeys make it a worthwhile adventure.
  • Tip: Monkeys are thieves, so stay alert and be careful if you have a backpack .Please don’t bring food with you because they will steal it.
  • The mosques there are beautiful and impressive architecture; you will feel peace of mind there. Visit Masjid Negara and Masjid Jamek.
  • In terms of food, do not skip Jalan Alor for street food. I tried satay and nasi lemak, and my taste buds were basically throwing a party.

Getting around is easy with Kuala Lumpur’s efficient public transportation system, including RapidKL trains and buses, or use the Grab app for convenient rides. To beat the crowds and heat, visit major attractions early in the morning or late afternoon.

Pro tip: Take a free walking tour to save time and get local recommendations from the guide.

malacca: 4-5 days

By Day 4, take a morning bus (2 hours) to Malacca. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its harmonious blend of colonial architecture and local culture.

  • As you stroll through the narrow lanes of Jonker Street, the vibrant blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences is palpable. Start your exploration at the historic A Famosa fortress, a remnant of Portuguese colonization.
  • Then, stroll along Jonker Street, famous for its bustling weekend night market filled with antique shops, vibrant street food, and the must-try chicken rice balls.
  • Visit The Stadthuys, a massive, bright terracotta-red riverfront building and landmark in Malacca.
  • And don’t miss the Malacca Straits Mosque, a stunning architectural marvel that appears to float on the water, offering breathtaking sunset views. You need to go there with pants, or they will not allow you to enter.

When it comes to getting around, Malacca is best explored on foot or by bicycle, making it easy to soak in the local atmosphere at your own pace.

Go back to Kuala Lumpur: day 5-6

After five days of exploring, I bet you are tired.

Take a night to unwind in Kuala Lumpur—explore a few more attractions at a leisurely pace, relax, and recharge for the next leg of your journey. Use this time to experience the city’s calmer side, enjoy a nice meal, and prepare yourself for the adventures ahead.

summer in Uluwatu in bali with a beautiful sandy beach

As you wrap up your Malaysian adventure, it’s time to head over to Bali.

The first thing you need to do in Bali, if you know how to drive, is rent a scooter because it’s the easiest way to navigate around Bali (cost $4 a day).

  • Tip: Negotiate the price because they will tell you $8 or $9 a day because you are not local.
  • The worst thing you could do is rent a car because the traffic there is so bad.
  • If you’re not up for driving, taxi scooters are a convenient alternative.

Let’s break down how you can make the most of your time on this paradise island.

Canggu: Day 6-8 (2 nights)

Kick off your Bali journey in Canggu, where the bohemian vibe is just as strong as the surf.

  • Start your day at Echo Beach, one of Canggu’s most famous surfing spots. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, the waves here are perfect for every level.
  • If you’d rather relax, the beach offers a laid-back vibe with plenty of sun loungers.
  • After a morning on the waves, head to one of Canggu’s trendy cafes for brunch. Places like Crate Café and The Shady Shack offer delicious meals with plenty of healthy options, perfect for refueling after an active morning.
  • In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife of Canggu. Old Man’s is a legendary spot for live music and good vibes.

Day 8 to 12: Ubud (4 nights)

taking a tricky selfie with the monkey in Ubud Bali

Next, head up to Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali.

  • On your first day, visit the Monkey Forest, a lush sanctuary home to over 700 playful monkeys. Capture a unique photo. Ask a staff member to help stage a ‘trick selfie’ (cost $2); they’ll hold a banana behind your phone to attract a monkey, then snap the perfect shot as the monkey reaches for it.
  • At evening, they don’t work, so come in the morning to take the selfie.
  • After the forest, head to Ubud Art Market, which is a very beautiful market with a lot of traditional stuff, and remember always to negotiate the price.
  • Tip: When negotiating, offer a third of the price (like $10 on a $30 item), and you’ll likely settle around half price ($15).
  • Begin your day with a stroll along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and rice fields.
  • Take a leisurely walk through the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and soak up the serene atmosphere.
  • If you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss the chance to try one of the world’s most famous coffees: Luwak coffee. Not only will you get to taste this unique brew, but you’ll also see how it’s made—a fascinating process that adds a whole new depth to the experience in Tegallalang Rice.

Day 3

On Day 3, consider visiting some of the stunning waterfalls in the area.

  • Tegenungan waterfall
  • Tukad Cepung waterfall
  • , and Kanto Lampo waterfall.

These spots are perfect for a refreshing dip and some breathtaking photos.

Day 4:

If you are a hiking lover, make sure to go for an adventure to Mount Batur.

  • Book a local guide for a night trek—starting in the dark and reaching the summit just in time to watch the sunrise is nothing short of magical. You can book it from your hostel or on getyourguide.com
  • The view is spectacular and totally worth the early wake-up call. At night, it will be so cold, so make sure to have some winter clothes. If you don’t have any, don’t worry; they rent clothes to use for $2. The trail will take 2 and a half hours. .
  • If you prefer to relax and chill on your last day, take a cooking class at Paon Bali Cooking School to learn the secrets of Balinese cuisine. After enjoying the fruits of your labor,
  • remember, a scooter or a taxi scooter can make hopping between these sites a breeze.

Nusa Penida is your next stop, and it’s all about jaw-dropping landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Take a fast boat from Sanur to reach this island paradise.

For transportation there, unfortunately, there is no taxi scooter, and the Grab app doesn’t work there

, so there are two options:

  1. you will find some taxi drivers who are ready to show you the island, but it’s a little bit pricey (you can find someone there to share the price with and go together)
  2. rent a scooter (the road is bad, so be careful).

Day 1:

  • Start your Nusa Penida adventure with a visit to the iconic Kelingking Beach. Known for its dinosaur-shaped cliff, this spot offers breathtaking views and is perfect for photography.
  • Don’t be fooled by the beach view from the top! While it looks like a quick 10-minute walk down, it’s actually a challenging 1.5-hour descent. The steep path is trickier than it appears, so pack plenty of water and wear proper shoes. The stunning beach views are worth it; just plan your time wisely for both the descent and the climb back up!
  • After soaking in the views at Kelingking, head to Tembeling Beach, a hidden gem on Nusa Penida. This secluded beach is accessible via a short trek through a lush forest. At Tembeling, you can enjoy the natural pools and explore the nearby caves.
  • Make your way to Crystal Bay in the evening, enjoying the stunning sunset views over the ocean.

Day 2:

  • Kick off your second day at Diamond Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. The descent to the beach involves a steep staircase, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. Once there, relax on the white sands and take in the picturesque surroundings. Arrive in the morning to enjoy the serenity before the afternoon crowds arrive.
  • In the afternoon, ferry back to Bali if you can. If you can’t, just stay the whole night there and chill.

Uluwatu: Day 14-16 (2 nights)

enjoying my budget trip on the beautiful sandy beach in Uluwatu

After enjoying the paradise in Nusa Penida, let’s head south to Uluwatu. the paradise of Bali

Day 1: Beach Bliss and Surf Adventures

  • Begin your Uluwatu escape at Padang Padang Beach, a picturesque spot known for its golden sands and turquoise waters. Spend your morning lounging under the sun or taking a leisurely swim.
  • If you’re up for it, rent a surfboard and ride the gentle waves that make this beach a favorite among beginners. Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the serene ambiance before it gets busy.
  • Next, head to Uluwatu Beach, a renowned surfing destination with more challenging waves. If you’re an experienced surfer, this is your chance to catch some incredible breaks. For those who prefer to stay on land, relax with a cold drink at one of the cliffside cafes while watching surfers tackle the waves below.

Day 2: Cliffs, Culture, and Sunset Views

  • On your second day, make your way to Melasti Beach. Famous for its stunning limestone cliffs and clear waters, it’s ideal for a morning of relaxation and beach exploration.
  • Don’t forget your camera, as the dramatic scenery offers perfect photo opportunities.
  • In the afternoon, visit Uluwatu Temple, perched on the edge of majestic cliffs offering panoramic ocean views. Take a stroll around the temple grounds and keep an eye out for the mischievous monkeys that call this place home.

Additional Suggestions: If time allows, consider visiting Suluban Beach, also known as Blue Point Beach, famous for its unique rock formations. It’s a great spot to unwind with a fresh coconut or a cocktail.

Seminyak: Day 16-18

And here we are on the last day in Bali. Finally, end your Bali adventure with a day in Seminyak. Known for its upscale vibe and vibrant nightlife, Seminyak offers everything from high-end shopping to gourmet dining.

  • Spend your days browsing the boutiques and relaxing at one of the chic beach clubs like Potato Head or Ku De Ta.
  • As the sun sets, treat yourself to a nice dinner and celebrate the end of an incredible trip.

Vietnam (13 Days)

After an amazing trip in Bali, we will explore new beautiful destinations with amazing plans. In our itinerary, we will visit Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Sapa, Hoi An, and Ninh Binh. So let’s explore it:

Hanoi: day 18-22

in the beautiful Hanoi the capital of Vietnam in the famous market train where people come to take picture

So starting with Hanoi and its bustling charm.

Hanoi will be our strategic place to visit other different cities (Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay), so we will stay there 4 nights but will only do 2 days in Hanoi.

Hanoi: (18-19)

  • in Hanoi is all about diving headfirst into the city’s vibrant energy.
  • Kick things off at Hoan Kiem Lake, a serene spot where locals practice Tai Chi in the early hours. The Temple of Literature is up next with its rich history, giving you a taste of Vietnam’s scholarly past.
  • Head over to Hanoi Train Street. This place is a must-see, especially when the train roars through around 3-4 PM. It’s wild seeing a train zip by so close! You need to buy something there to stay waiting for the train, so just buy a bottle of water or something to stay there.
  • Grab a Vietnamese egg coffee afterward; it’s unlike any coffee you’ve ever had.

Day trip to Ninh binh (day 19)

Leaving the city behind, we will visit Ninh Binh for a one-day trip.

I’m usually a person who prefers doing everything without a guide, just by myself freely, but in Vietnam, I prefer to do a guided tour from Hanoi because it’s almost the same price.

If you do a day trip with a tour guide, it will cost you $50 with hotel pickup, a boat tour, and lunch. If you do all those things by yourself, it will cost you $40. So I prefer to pay $10 more and get everything ready without brainstorming.

  • Use getyourguide.com or search for an agency in Hanoi close to you.
  • Imagine exploring Hoa Lu, the ancient capital, with its historic temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties.
  • The boat ride through Trang An Grottoes is straight out of a postcard. The limestone karsts and lush green landscapes are mesmerizing.
  • Cycling through the countryside, you’ll pass vibrant rice paddies and locals who might just wave you over for a chat.
  • At night, you will be back in Hanoi planning for the next day.

Halong Bay: day 20

Next is the magical Halong Bay. I also prefer using getyourguide because it seems better in this situation.

  • So we begin the trip at 8 in the morning by taking a bus to Halong Bay, which takes 2 hours.
  • A day spent cruising on a modern beautiful boat is unforgettable.
  • You’ll explore Sung Sot Cave, which reminds me of the cave of Batman in the movie.
  • You’ll do a hike to soak in the panoramic views.
  • You will pass by a sandy beach where you can swim,
  • and you can also paddle in kayaks.
  • Lunch on board is all about fresh seafood—seriously, you’ve never tasted anything like it.
  • Trust me, it’s worth every step and every penny.

Hanoi (21-22)

back in hanoi for a day of leisure and rest.

  • start the day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café.
  • A spa visit for a foot massage is just the thing to pamper yourself.
  • In the afternoon, head to Tran Quoc Pagoda on West Lake. It’s the oldest pagoda in town, and the serenity there is just what you need amidst the hustle.

Sapa:(22-24)

enjoying the hiking in Sapa with Hmong people and exploring the rice field

day 1

  • Finally, the adventure to Sapa begins with an overnight sleeper bus journey. It will take you 6 hours to arrive, but you will not feel it at all because it’s a sleeper bus.
  • Arriving in Sapa, you’ll meet up with your guide, who’s basically your new best friend for the next two days.
  • They lead the way through Muong Hoa Valley, which is just breathtaking with its stunning terraced fields. Seriously, the views are postcard-perfect! Along the trek, you’ll visit local villages.
  • You will feel that you went back to the past because it’s a really different way of life there.
  • Andd you will meet H’Mong people. These folks are super welcoming, and spending time with them is a real highlight. You might even get a chance to sit down for a chat over a cup of tea. It’s a cozy setup where you get to experience life as the locals do—simple yet incredibly heartwarming.

Day 2 in Sapa: Deeper Discovery and Return

Rise and shine for another day of exploration!

  • The trek today takes you to Cat Cat Village, a place teeming with cultural richness. As you walk the trails, your guide shares fascinating stories about the ethnic minorities’ customs, traditions, and way of life. It’s like peeling back layers of history as you go.
  • You’ll stop for a hearty lunch, which is much needed after all the trekking.
  • With your energy replenished, there’s time to explore Sapa town, which is perfect for picking up some unique crafts and souvenirs.
  • As the day winds down, it’s back to the bus station for the journey back to Hanoi. Prepare yourself for the next trip to Hoi An.

Hoi An (25-28) 2 nights

Boats Docked on Canal Near an Old Town

day 1: Exploring the Ancient Charm

Starting off in Hoi An, you’ll immediately feel the blend of history and charm.

First stop?

  • The Ancient Town. It’s like stepping into a living museum with its quaint, preserved buildings.
  • The Japanese Covered Bridge is a must-see, with its historical significance and beautiful architecture.
  • As you wander through the streets, don’t miss out on the local markets where the vibrant colors and aromas pull you in.
  • As evening rolls in, the town lights up with lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere. A stroll by the Thu Bon River with some street food from the Night Market is the perfect way to wrap up the day.

Day 2: Beach Relaxation and Local Life

After a day of exploration, it’s time to chill at the beach.

  • An Bang Beach is just the place to unwind, with its golden sands and gentle waves. Whether you decide to sunbathe or take a refreshing swim, it’s pure bliss.
  • If you’re up for it, rent a bike and cruise through the countryside. The scenes of rice paddies and local life are a photographer’s dream.

Ho Chi Minh City (28-30)

Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

  • Start your urban adventure right in the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City.
  • First up is the War Remnants Museum, a must-visit that gives a deep dive into Vietnam’s war history. It’s intense, but incredibly eye-opening.
  • From there, take a short walk to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.
  • The architecture is stunning and offers a little slice of Paris in Vietnam. Don’t forget to snap some photos; the backdrop is just gorgeous.
  • You’ll find Saigon Central Post Office nearby. It’s not just any post office; this one’s designed by Gustave Eiffel (yep, the Eiffel Tower guy). Inside, it’s bustling and beautiful, with grand arches and vintage phone booths.
  • Lunchtime calls for a visit to Ben Thanh Market. This iconic market is a sensory overload in the best way possible. The array of food stalls will lure you in with scents of sizzling meats and spices.
  • Do yourself a favor and grab a banh mi or a steaming bowl of pho.
  • Once your belly’s happy, explore the stalls for souvenirs—everything from handcrafted goods to knock-off brands. Don’t shy away from haggling; it’s all part of the experience here.
  • As the day winds down, consider heading to a rooftop bar nearby. Watching the sunset over this vibrant city with a drink in hand is the perfect way to reflect on a day well spent exploring the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: Journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels

Today, you’re heading out of the city to the Cu Chi Tunnels

  • to the Cu Chi Tunnels—a fascinating place that showcases the resourcefulness and resilience during the Vietnam War. There are a few ways to get there from Ho Chi Minh City.
  • You can join a guided tour, which usually includes transportation and a guide who’ll walk you through the history and significance of the tunnels. It’s a good option if you want a hassle-free experience. Tours typically depart in the morning and return by late afternoon.

If you prefer to explore independently, taking a bus is budget-friendly.

  • Head to the Ben Thanh bus station, where buses to Cu Chi leave regularly. The ride is about two hours and pretty straightforward.
  • Alternatively, hiring a private car gives you flexibility with time and stops, plus it’s perfect if you’re traveling in a group.

Once there, you’ll get to see the traps and learn about the incredible underground network. It’s wild to think about how people lived and fought in such tight spaces. While you can crawl through some sections of the tunnel, be prepared for the narrowness—it’s not for the claustrophobic!

After exploring the tunnels, you’ll head back to Ho Chi Minh City.

Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve had across Southeast Asia, filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights.

Whether you spent weeks or months exploring, this adventure will surely leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Enjoy your last night in the city, perhaps with a farewell dinner or a final walk through the bustling streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere one last time.