Planning a 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary? Here’s our in-depth guide on how to travel around Southeast Asia in 3 months. Spend your days exploring tropical jungles, admiring temples and enjoying some of the world’s best cuisines. With 3 months in Southeast Asia, there’s a lot you can see and we’ll show you how to create the perfect itinerary.
Southeast Asia is one of the most popular backpacking destinations with countries filled with adventure, friendly locals and budget-friendly prices.
This region of the world is perfect for any type of traveller and we’ve created the best 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary for you to plan the perfect trip. Firstly, we’d like to cover a few things – what countries are in Southeast Asia?
The mainland Southeast Asia trail covers Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos with the addition of Malaysia, Singapore and Myanmar (Burma) for those with more time.
Other popular countries in Southeast Asia are the Philippines and Indonesia (including Bali) which usually involve flying as they both consist of a lot of tropical islands! Finally, there’s Brunei and Timor-Leste which definitely don’t get as much attention as other countries in Southeast Asia.
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In this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, we show you how to visit Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Indonesia with the option to switch plans around and create your perfect itinerary.
Quick Tips for a 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary
- Currencies – All 7 countries in this Southeast Asia itinerary have different currencies. Here’s a list if you’d like to compare it to your own currency: Singapore Dollar, Malaysian Ringgit Thai Baht, US Dollars & Cambodian Riel, Vietnamese Dong, Laotian Kip and Indonesian Rupiah.
- Language – These countries also have their own languages and English is found in popular travel destinations. It’s recommended to learn a few phrases before visiting!
- Food – Curries, rice dishes, noodle dishes, fresh fruit, coconuts & more!
- Apps – GoogleMaps, GoogleTranslate, Grab & Gojek
- Accommodation – Hostelworld here or Booking.com here
- Travel Adaptor – (Plugs C & G) We recommend buying an International Worldwide Travel Adaptor!
Also check out our Southeast Asia Packing Guide and Budget Guide for Southeast Asia!
How to get around Southeast Asia
Once you arrive in Southeast Asia, the best way to get around the region is by bus, ferry or flying! When you’re in a country, island or city the best way to get around will be a scooter, tuk-tuk or local transport if they have it! Tuk-tuks and taxis are always around the major destinations if you’re ever stuck.
Flights – Check Skyscanner for flight times and prices!
3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary
Now onto the part, you came here for – the Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary! We’ve added how to get around from each destination, a recommendation of where to stay and a list of the best things to do in every city, town or island! We’ve also put the itinerary on GoogleSheets *for free* so you can use it during your trip.
Find the full itinerary on GoogleSheets here – copy and paste it to start creating your 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary! You can also share it with family and friends so they can see where you’re staying and which country you’re in. Here’s our in-depth travel itinerary!
Singapore | 3 Days
Singapore | Day 1 – 4 (3 days)
The futuristic urban jungle of Singapore is the best place to start your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary! The flights arriving into the country are usually pretty good from around the world (as well as flying into Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur), and Singapore is a great city to get over jetlag whilst exploring the sights.
The small country of Singapore is more pricey than other countries in Southeast Asia which means it’s likely to be above budget as accommodation is more expensive. Keep this in mind when starting your 3 months in Southeast Asia and definitely eat in Hawker centres if you want budget-friendly food in Singapore! The best way to get around the city is by metro, bus or Grab.
Things to do in Singapore
- Walk around the Gardens by the Bay & see the view from Marina Bay Sands
- Admire the Botanical Gardens
- Eat your heart out in the Hawker Centre’s
- Visit Sentosa Island & spend the day at Universal Studios
- Browse around the colourful streets of Little India and China Town
- Watch the impressive light & water show
Where to stay in Singapore – 7 Wonders Hostel in Little India!
Malaysia | 10 days
Malaysia | Day 4 – 14 (10 days)
A country filled with rainforests, wildlife, beautiful islands and vibrant cities deserves a spot on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. We loved our time in Malaysia and would return just for the food!
With a mixed population of Malay, Indian and Chinese – there’s some amazing street food and restaurants to eat at during your 10 days in Malaysia.
There’s so much to do in Malaysia and with 10 days you’ll be able to visit the main highlights! The best way to get around the country is by bus or flying.
Kualar Lumpur – 3 days
Start your Malaysia itinerary in the hectic capital city, Kuala Lumpur! It’s a 5 hour bus ride to get to Kuala Lumpur from Singapore and the prices are inexpensive. 3 days is perfect for Kuala Lumpur and a great amount of time to explore the city visiting the towers, malls, parks and temples. The metro system is easy to use and Grab’s are available everywhere around the city.
Things to do in Kuala Lumpur
- Visit the tallest twin towers in the world, Petronas Towers & browse around KLCC (park)
- Take a trip to the Batu Caves
- Admire Thean Hou Temple
- Walk around Perdana Botanical Gardens & Walk high in the trees at KL Forest Eco Park
- Visit Central Market & China Town & shop at Petaling Street Market
- Here’s our 3 Day Kuala Lumpur itinerary with more details!
Where to eat in Kuala Lumpur – Sweet Veggie (Pudu), Happy Sambodi Vege Restaurant, Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, SALA Berjaya Times Square
Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur – D’majestic Place By Homes ($-$$)
Cameron Highlands – 2 days
Next up in your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary is the Cameron Highlands – a beautiful region filled with tea plantations, colder weather and rainforests. Check out our guide to visiting Cameron Highlands with many recommendations and tips!
It’s a 4 hour bus ride to get from Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands and the best way to get around the Cameron Highlands is by scooter, tours or renting a car.
Things to do in Cameron Highlands
- Visit the BOH Tea Plantations & Cafe
- Explore the Mossy Forest & Mount Brinchang
- Browse around the town of Tanah Rata
- Go hiking in the hills (find out more here) & jungle trek to find the Giant Rafflesia
- Visit Bharat Tea Plantations
- Pick your own strawberries
Where to eat in Cameron Highlands – Singh Chapati, Restoran Sri Brinchang
Where to stay in Cameron Highlands – Bricks Cameron Hostel (this is where we stayed)!
➤ Still saving for your Southeast Asia trip? Here’s our tips on how to save money for your travels!
Penang – 3 days
The best area to base yourself in Penang is the colourful city of Georgetown. Spend 3 days wandering around the colonial streets finding street art and amazing local cuisine. Penang also has amazing viewpoints, jungles, and beaches to explore outside of historic Georgetown.
It takes around 5 hours on a bus to get from Cameron Highlands to Georgetown, Penang and the best way to get around Penang is by bus, scooter or tour.
Things to do in Penang
- Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
- Chill at Batu Ferringhi Beach
- Get the cable car or hike up Penang Hill
- Walk around Little India (the best restaurants & street food!)
- Admire the street art in Georgetown
- Enjoy all the multicultural food Penang has to offer
- Check out our Penang itinerary to plan your trip!
Where to eat in Penang – Ee Beng Vegetarian Food, Woodlands Vegetarian Restaurant, Jian Jian Vegetarian Food
Where to stay in Penang – We Love GuestHouse ($) – Find the link here!
Langkawi – 2 days
Now it’s time to explore the first tropical island of your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary! Langkawi is a beautiful island in the northwest of Malaysia near the border of Thailand. It’s a nature-filled paradise with wildlife, beaches and waterfalls.
It takes about 3 hours by ferry to get from Georgetown to Langkawi and the best way to get around Langkawi is by walking, scooter or tour.
Things to do in Langkawi
- Walk along the Langkawi SkyBridge & go on the Langkawi SkyCab (Cable car)
- Admire Telaga Tujuh Waterfall & Seven Wells Waterfall
- Visit the Eagle statue (Dataran Lang)
- Relax on Tanjung Rhu beach
- Go on a mangrove tour in Kilim Geoforest Park
Where to stay in Langkawi – Gecko Guesthouse – Find the link here!
Malaysia travel guides: 2 Week Malaysia Itinerary, Cameron Highlands Itinerary, Ipoh Itinerary, Melaka Itinerary, Penang Itinerary and Kuala Lumpur Itinerary!
Southern Thailand & Bangkok | 13 days
Southern Thailand & Bangkok | Day 14 – 27 (13 days)
The Thai islands will be some of the most beautiful places on your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Whether you’re into relaxing on the beach, snorkelling or partying – there’s really something for everyone in the South of Thailand.
On a Southeast Asia 3 months itinerary it’s going to be hard to visit all of these stunning islands, so we’ve chosen three for you to enjoy. If you have more time head over to the Gulf of Thailand to enjoy Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. You can also check out our 1 month Thailand itinerary!
Koh Lipe – 2 days
Koh Lipe is a lovely island to start your Thailand trip – white sand beaches, crystal clear water and hiking on nearby islands. When you enter Thailand, you’ll have to get your visa when you arrive at the border.
It takes 2 hours by ferry to get from Langkawi to Koh Lipe and the best way to get around Koh Lipe is by walking or bicycle. Find out how to book transport online here!
Things to do in Koh Lipe
- Relax on Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach & Sunset Beach
- Day trip & hike Koh Adang
- Go snorkelling & admire tropical fish
- Browse and shop around Koh Lipe walking street
Where to stay in Koh Lipe – Bayview Sunset ($) – Find the link here!
Koh Lanta – 3 days
Koh Lanta will always hold a place in our hearts as we lived there for 2 months volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare. We highly recommend visiting Koh Lanta for a few relaxing days and taking it slow on your Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary. Visit the many beaches of Koh Lanta as well as explore Old Town and the national park.
It takes around 4 hours by ferry to get from Koh Lipe to Koh Lanta and the best way to get around Koh Lanta is by scooter, tuk-tuk or tour.
Check out our 3 days in Koh Lanta itinerary for a more in-depth travel guide!
Things to do in Koh Lanta
- Visit Lanta Animal Welfare (find out about volunteering here!)
- Hike around Visit Mu Ko Lanta National Park
- Visit the beautiful Old Town
- Take a Thai cooking class (with Time for Lime, find out more here!
- Relax on the many beaches around the island
- Go on a snorkelling tour or go scuba diving
Where to stay in Koh Lanta – Coco Lanta Resort ($$) – Find the link here & Baan Suan Rim Klong ($)- Find the link here!
Best Restaurants in Koh Lanta – Yawee Restaurant, Aleena’s, The Angels & Spring Rolls (We have a vegan in Koh Lanta travel guide)!
➤ Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand – The Best Thailand Travel Tips!
Koh Phi Phi – 3 days
The famous Koh Phi Phi could be the most popular island in Thailand (along with Phuket). Other than the island being catered towards tourism with markets and tours, it’s absolutely beautiful and the rock formations around the islands will leave you speechless.
It takes around 1 hour by ferry to get from Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi and the best way to get around the island is by walking!
Things to do in Koh Phi Phi
- Visit Monkey Beach
- Take a trip to Bamboo Island
- Shop around the Phi Phi markets
- Take a snorkelling tour around the islands (see Maya Bay)
- Hike up to Phi Phi viewpoint
Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi – Harmony House ($) – Find the link here!
Krabi (Ao Nang) – 2 days
Krabi is the region of Thailand which includes Koh Lanta and Koh Phi Phi and in this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, we recommend basing yourself in Ao Nang once on the mainland of Krabi. Ao Nang has many restaurants and easy access to boat tours, ferries and Railay Beach.
It takes around 2 hours by ferry to get from Koh Phi Phi to Ao Nang, Krabi and the best way to get around Krabi is by scooter, Grab, taxi, tour, car rental & walking around Ao Nang.
Things to do in Krabi
- Hike to the Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
- Take a trip to Railay Beach
- Relax on Ao Nang Beach
- Admire the rock formations or go rock climbing
- Here are even more things to do in Krabi, Thailand!
Where to stay in Krabi – J Mansion, Ao Nang ($) – Find the link here!
Bangkok – 3 days
After an amazing 10 days of island hopping in Thailand, head to Bangkok – the capital of Thailand! Bangkok is the central hub of Southeast Asia and another great place to start your trip. There’s many things to do in the city such as temples, markets and shopping. It’s also a great city for rooftop bars and nightlife!
It takes around 1.5 hours to get from Krabi to Bangkok by plane or it’s a 10-hour bus journey. We used the bus and it’s not too bad overnight, just long! The best way to get around Bangkok is by Grab, metro & bus.
Things to do in Bangkok
- Visit the famous The Grand Palace
- Also, visit Wat Phra Chetuphon, Wat Arun Ratchawararam & Wat Traimit
- Browse around the Chatuchak Weekend Market
- Walk around Lumphini Park
- Visit Khao San Road & Chinatown
- Shop in the many malls such as MBK Center & Central World
- Plan your 3 days in Bangkok with our travel guide!
Where to stay in Bangkok – Pillow & Bread ($) – Find the link here!
Some of our Thailand travel guides: 4 Day Phuket Itinerary / 3 Day Koh Lanta Itinerary / 3 Day Bangkok Itinerary / Thailand Travel Tips / 2 Week Thai Islands Itinerary
Cambodia | 12 days
Cambodia | Day 27 – 39 (12 days)
The next country on your 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary is Cambodia. It’s home to the well-known Angkor Wat and many more temples across the country. The islands here are more natural and not as touristic as the Thai islands but just as beautiful. Cambodia is definitely worth a visit on a 3 month Southeast Asia route.
The best way to get around Cambodia is by bus and then using tuk-tuks or scooters when in destinations. It’s also very easy to get to Cambodia from Bangkok. Here’s our 2 Week Cambodia itinerary!
Siem Reap – 3 days
The first destination on your Cambodia trip is Siem Reap and the Angkor Complex. Siem Reap is the perfect base for exploring the temples and you can spend anything from 1 day to 1-week temple hopping. We spent 1 day at the Angkor Complex due to the difficult high heat in April and saw the main highlights.
The bus journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap takes around 8 hours including the border crossing. It’s also possible to fly to Siem Reap in 1 hour. We took the bus during the daytime and it was comfortable but long.
The best way to get around the Angkor Complex is by tuk-tuk for the day or by bicycle. It is possible to walk, but it’s not advised as it can take 4.5 hours to get around in the heat.
Things to do in Siem Reap
- Explore the famous Angkor Complex (1 day is $37, 3 days is $62 & 7 days is $72)
- Walk down Pub Street
- Visit the Angkor National Museum
- Shop the markets & eat street food
Where to stay in Siem Reap – Side Walk Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
Phnom Penh – 2 days
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and there’s so much history to learn around the city. 2 days is a good amount of time to spend here and you’ll also come back for one evening at the end of this Cambodia itinerary. Phnom Penh is not as developed as Bangkok or Singapore.
It takes around 7 hours to get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh by bus and the best way to get around Phnom Penh is by tuk-tuk, taxi or Grab.
Things to do in Phnom Penh
- Learn in the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (the dark history of Cambodia)
- Browse around the Central Market & Russian Market
- Visit the Royal Palace of Cambodia
- See the Buddhist temple – Wat Phnom
- Learn more at the Killing Fields in Choeung Ek
Where to stay in Phnom Penh – Hotel Zing ($) – Find the link here!
Kampot – 2 days
The riverside town of Kampot is a unique place to visit in Cambodia during your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Spend the next few days taking it easy in Kampot and the islands after understanding more about Cambodia’s history.
It takes around 3 hours to get from Phnom Penh to Kampot and the best way to get around Kampot is by scooter, tuk-tuk or walking.
Things to do in Kampot
- See the view from Bokor Mountain
- Kayak through the mangroves in Kampot River
- Visit the Pepper Farm
- Watch the sunset from the riverside beaches
Where to stay in Kampot – Bohemiaz Resort and Spa Kampot ($) – Find the link here!
Koh Rong – 2 days
Welcome to the tropical Cambodian island of Koh Rong! This is the first of two islands you’ll visit in Cambodia on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. If you want to relax a little more, you can also just choose one island – Koh Rong is more popular whilst Koh Rong Sanloem is usually the quieter island.
As far as we know, there are no roads or ATMs in Koh Rong or Koh Rong Sanloem and limited electricity and Wifi.
It takes around 4 hours to get from Kampot to Phnom Penh by minivan and ferry. The best way to get around Koh Rong is by walking tours, and boat taxis.
Things to do in Koh Rong
- Relax at White Beach
- Walk through the jungle to Long Beach
- Enjoy scuba diving, snorkelling or kayaking
- Join the bars & party at Police Beach
Where to stay in Koh Rong – Psk Vimean Koh Rong Guesthouse ($) – Find the link here!
➤ Check out our Southeast Asia Budget Guide to plan prices for Cambodia!
Koh Rong Sanloem – 2 days
Similar to Koh Rong is another beautiful island – Koh Rong Sanloem! It’s more chilled, less developed and another great island for snorkelling, relaxing and you’ll still find a few parties going on.
It takes around 40 minutes by ferry to get from Koh Rong to Koh Rong Sanloem and the best way to get around Koh Rong Sanloem is by walking, tour, or boat taxi.
Things to do in Koh Rong Sanloem
- Chill at M’Pai Bay & swim with Bioluminescent Plankton
- Hike to the Old Lighthouse
- Visit Saracen Bay or Lazy Beach
- Watch the sunset at Sunset Beach
Where to stay in Koh Rong Sanloem – The Cliff Hostel ($) – Find the link here!
Phnom Penh – 1 day
It takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on which ferry you take to get from Koh Rong Sanloem to Sihanoukville. From Sihanoukville, it takes around 5 hours by bus to get to Phnom Penh.
You’ll most likely arrive in the evening, so find some dinner and prepare for the next adventure in your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary to Vietnam.
Check out our 2 Week Cambodia Itinerary for more details!
Vietnam | 22 days
Vietnam | Day 39 – 61 (22 days)
If you’re planning a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, Vietnam can’t be missed. It’s one of the best countries for backpacking in Southeast Asia with a variety of things to do! Between 3 weeks to 1 month is the perfect time to spend in Vietnam (you’ll probably want longer too!), eating the delicious local cuisine, and exploring hills, jungles, beaches, caves, and falls!
The best way to get around Vietnam is by night buses, trains, and flights. The night buses have sleeper seats throughout the country, making them very comfortable for sleeping if you’re not too tall!
Ho Chi Minh – 2 days
Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon, is one of Vietnam’s biggest cities filled with street food, shopping, monuments, and museums! Spend 2-3 days in Ho Chi Minh adjusting to Vietnam before taking a trip to the Mekong River.
It takes around 7 hours by bus to get from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh and the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh is by Grab, tuk-tuks, walking, and tours.
Things to do in Ho Chi Minh
- See the view from Bitexco Financial Tower
- Learn about history at the War Remnants Museum
- Visit Giac Lam Pagoda
- Walk down Pham Ngu Lao Street
- Send a letter home from the Central Post Office & visit Notre Dame Cathedral
- Take a trip to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels
Where to stay in Ho Chi Minh – Ngoc Loan Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
Can Tho – 1 day
On day 3 of your Vietnam trip, head to Can Tho to experience the city on the Mekong River. It’s also possible to do this on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh, but we really enjoyed a full day in Can Tho including the early morning wake-up to visit the floating markets.
It takes roughly 4 hours to get from Ho Chi Minh to Can Tho and the city is easily walkable other than visiting the floating markets on a local boat.
Things to do in Can Tho
- Hop on a boat and see the Cai Rang Floating Market
- Walk around Ninh Kieu Wharf
- Visit the Cacao farm & Rice Noodle Factory
- Browse the many markets in Can Tho
Where to stay in Can Tho – Green Village Mekong ($) – Find the link here!
Ho Chi Minh – 1 day
After spending one night in Can Tho, head back to Ho Chi Minh after visiting the floating markets and relax before catching another bus the next day.
Mui Ne – 2 days
There is one reason Mui Ne made it onto this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary – it’s home to white and red sand dunes – which is completely different from the rest of the tropical and mountainous country. Mui Ne is the perfect base to book a sunrise tour and see everything in the town!
It takes around 4.5 hours by bus to get from Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne and the best way to get around Mui Ne is by booking a tour. There are rumours that the police like to try to catch tourists out on scooters here, so we wouldn’t recommend renting one!
Things to do in Mui Ne
- Take a Sunrise Tour of the Red & White Sand Dunes
- Visit the Fishing Village & Market
- Walk through the sandy Fairy Stream
- Relax on the beach & enjoy the nearby restaurants
Where to stay in Mui Ne – Mui Ne Hills Backpackers ($) – Find the link here!
Da Lat – 2 days
In the Central Highlands of Vietnam is the French colonial city of Da Lat. If you’re visiting between December and March it can get pretty chilly in the mountains, but the most popular thing to do here is to go canyoning! Our guides at Dalat Adventure Tours were amazing we highly recommend them!
It takes between 4 to 5 hours by bus to get from Mui Ne to Da Lat and the journey takes you higher into the mountains with many windy roads. The best way to get around Da Lat is by scooter, taxi or walking.
Things to do in Da Lat
- Go canyoning in the falls of Da Lat (Dalat Adventure Tours)
- Walk around the Valley of Love
- Browse the Da Lat Market
- Get lost in the Crazy House
- Visit the Maze Bar
- See the Pagoda’s
Where to stay in Da Lat – Raon Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
Hoi An – 3 days
Hoi An is one of central Vietnam’s prettiest cities – making a name for itself with beautiful lantern markets along the river. You can spend anything from 3 days to a week here enjoying all the best things to do in Hoi An. The best way to get around Hoi An is by walking, scooter, bicycle or tour.
It takes around 14 hours to get from Da Lat to Hoi An by an overnight sleeper bus – which will be the second night bus on your 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary. Vietnam sleeper buses are pretty comfortable! The other way to get to Hoi An is to fly from Da Lat to Da Nang and take a 45-minute bus to Hoi An.
Things to do in Hoi An
- Fall in love with the Old Town
- Shop at all the Local Markets & get a Tailored piece of clothing
- Chill on An Bang Beach
- Rent a bicycle or scooter & ride around the countryside
- Visit Ruins, Museums & Monuments
Where to stay in Hoi An – Legend Ancient Town Hoi An Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
➤ Plan your clothes with our Southeast Asia Packing Guide!
Da Nang – 2 days
Not many people talk about Da Nang on a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, but as it’s home to the famous Golden Bridge in the sky – it’s become a popular place to visit. The city is right on the beach with beautiful mountains surrounding the skyscrapers.
It takes 45 minutes by bus to get from Hoi An to Da Nang and the best way to get around Da Nang is by Grab, scooter or tour.
Things to do in Da Nang
- Visit the Ba Na Hills (theme park resort)
- Relax on My Khe, Pham Van Dong & Non Nuoc Beach
- Watch the fire show at the Dragon Bridge
- Drive to the Hai Van Pass (the best way is to rent a scooter)
Where to stay in Da Nang – Señorita Boutique Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
Hue – 1 day
Also in central Vietnam is Hue – a city known for its impressive Imperial City. In this Southeast Asia 3 month itinerary there’s enough time for 1 day in Hue to enjoy the best things to do in the city and prepare for a night bus the following day.
It takes about 3 hours to get from Da Nang to Hue by bus and the best way to get around Hue is by scooter, taxi or tour.
Things to do in Hue
- Visit the Imperial Citadel
- Visit the Tomb Of Khai Dinh, Tomb Of Minh Mang & Tomb Of Tu Duc
- Explore the Abandoned Water Park (where the famous dragon is!)
Where to stay in Hue – Tâm Homestay ($) – Find the link here!
Ninh Binh – 2 days
Ninh Binh is a beautiful place to visit during your 3 months in Southeast Asia. You can spend your days on a small boat floating through caves or hiking to peaks with views of rice paddies. Base yourself in Trang An or Tam Coc to really feel the nature here!
It takes around 11 hours by bus or train to get from Hue to Ninh Binh and the best way to get around Ninh Binh is by scooter, bicycle, taxi, tour. When arriving in Ninh Binh you will need to get a taxi to Tam Coc or Trang An.
Things to do in Ninh Binh
- Explore the beautiful Tam Coc
- Hike to Hang Mua Peak & visit Mua Cave
- Take a boat trip around Trang An
- Find the Bich Dong Pagoda
- Ride around the beautiful scenery (by bicycle or scooter)
Where to stay in Ninh Binh – Tam Coc Melody Homestay ($) – Find the link here!
Cat Ba – 2 days
Cat Ba is an alternative place to stay to Ha Long Bay – it’s a lot more chilled and the views are almost the same! The island has so much to offer and one of our favourite views from a hike is in Cat Ba National Park.
It takes around 4.5 hours to get from Ninh Binh to Cat Ba by bus and ferry. The best way to get around Cat Ba is by scooter and joining onto a boat trip to explore the famous bays (Lan Ha Bay & Ha Long Bay).
Things to do in Cat Ba
- Go on a Lan Ha Bay Cruise (also visits Ha Long Bay)
- Hike in Cat Ba National Park
- Go kayaking, snorkelling or rock climbing
- See the views from Canon Fort & explore Đài Quan Sát Phía Đông)
Where to stay in Cat Ba – Bao Phuc Hotel ($-$$) – Find the link here!
Sapa – 2 days
Up in the northwest of Vietnam, surrounded by mountains and rice paddies is the beautiful town of Sapa! Sa Pa is a popular hiking spot in Vietnam and you can take walking tours with the locals to explore the area. The best places to stay in Sa Pa are homestays overlooking the rice paddies. Check out the town on your way back to the bus station.
It takes around 13 hours to get from Cat Ba to Sapa on a ferry and an overnight bus and the best way to get around Sapa is by scooter, walking, taxi or tour.
Things to do in Sapa
- Trek through the rice paddies
- Ride the Cable Car to Fansipan (one of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia)
- Hike to Love Waterfall & Silver Waterfall
- Get cosy in the cafes in Sapa town
- Stay in a homestay
Where to stay in Sapa – Surelee Homestay ($) – Find the link here!
Hanoi – 2 days
Now it’s time to explore the capital city of Vietnam – Hanoi. Hanoi is another unique capital city on this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary with French influences, along with Chinese & Southeast Asian. The city’s Old Quarter has many markets, shopping and restaurants to enjoy 2 days in Hanoi.
It takes 7 hours by bus to get from Sapa to Hanoi and the best way to get around Hanoi is by Grab, walking or taxis.
Things to do in Hanoi
- Browse around the beautiful Old Quarter
- Go to a cafe on the Train Tracks
- Visit the Temple of Literature & St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- Walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake
- Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Where to stay in Hanoi – Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel ($) – Find the link here!
Laos | 7 days
Laos | Day 61 – 68 (7 days)
Onto the next country on this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary – Laos is a country in the north filled with quaint towns, beautiful mountains and jungles. We recommend you spend at least 1 week in Laos exploring 2-3 towns before catching the slow boat into the North of Thailand.
Vang Vieng – 2 days
Vang Vieng is a small mountainous town that became a very popular party and tubing destination. It was stopped for a long time due to the dangerous side of mixing both of these activities together – but in 2024 it’s now possible to go tubing again (responsibly)! The surroundings of Vang Vieng are definitely worth a visit during your 3 months Southeast Asia trip.
It can take around 20 hours by bus to get from Hanoi to Vang Vieng which is very long, but the best option if you’re on a budget. Alternatively, there’s a new railway connecting Hanoi to Vientiane and then you can catch a bus to Vang Vieng.
It’s also possible to fly to Vientiane to save time and check out Vientiane along the way, we didn’t have time on our 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. The best way to get around Vang Vieng is by songthaews & scooter.
Things to do in Vang Vieng
- Take a dip in Blue lagoon 1 & Blue Lagoon 3
- Go Kayaking or Tubing on Nan Song river
- Admire the surrounding at Pha Tang Bridge
- Head to Nam Xay Viewpoint & Tham Chang cave
Where to stay in Vang Vieng – Vang Vieng Champa Hotel ($) – Find the link here!
Luang Prabang – 3 days
Another must-visit destination in Laos is Luang Prabang – an ancient capital known for its temples and monasteries. This royal city is also a great spot for visiting the popular Kuang Si waterfalls.
It takes around 6 hours to get from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang bus however there is a new railway that may only take 2 hours by train. The best way to get around Luang Prabang is by scooter, tuk-tuk or tour.
Things to do in Luang Prabang
- Visit the Kuang Si waterfalls
- Admire the view from Phu Si Mountain
- Explore the Royal Temple, Wat Wisunalat & Wat Xieng Thong
Where to stay in Luang Prabang – Golden Lotus Place ($) – Find the link here!
➤ Here’s our tips on how to save money for your backpacking trip!
Mekong River Slow Boat (Travel Days) – 2 days
The Mekong River stretches through many countries of mainland Southeast Asia and you now have the option to take a two-day slow boat from Luang Prabang to Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand. It’s a popular route for backpackers and although not the most comfortable – it’s definitely an experience!
There are around 8 hours of sailing on the first day and around 7 hours on the second day with an overnight stop in the small town of Pakbeng. The boat will drop you off in Chiang Khong and then it’s a 2-3 hour bus journey to Chiang Rai.
Northern Thailand | 8 days
Northern Thailand | Day 68 – 76 (8 days)
After the long slow boat from Laos, you will arrive back in Thailand – this time Northern Thailand! The north is filled with gorgeous jungles, mountains, temples and nature. The cuisine is also a little different in the North, so make sure to take the time to eat the local Thai food.
Chiang Rai – 2 days
The slow boat from Luang Prabang will take you to the mountainous city of Chiang Rai. This is where you can visit the famous White Temple, enjoy the waterfalls and check out Chiang Rai markets before heading to Pai.
Things to do in Chiang Rai
- Visit the White Temple
- Admire the Blue Temple
- Have fun at Khun Korn Forest Park, Khun Korn Forest Park & Pong Phrabat Waterfall
- Explore the Chiang Rai Night Markets
Where to stay in Chiang Rai – Pan Kled Villa Eco Hill Resort ($$) – Find the link here!
Pai – 3 days
The backpacker favourite, Pai is located in the Mae Hong Soon Province. It’s known for its beautiful mountain scenery, laid-back town and delicious street food. Over the years Pai is becoming more and more popular and has a lot of influences from Western culture, especially the healthy yoga scene.
It takes around 7 hours to get from Chiang Rai to Pai by bus and the best way to get around Pai is by scooter, taxi, tour or songthaew.
Things to do in Pai
- Climb up to the White Buddha
- Watch the sunset at Pai Canyon
- Find the best food at Pai’s Walking Street Night Market
- Visit Mo Paeng Waterfall & Pam Bok Waterfall
- Visit the Land Split or go Whitewater Rafting
Where to stay in Pai – Kuad Khon Thoe Pai Cottage ($) – Find the link here!
Chiang Mai – 3 days
Chiang Mai is the main hub of Northern Thailand and one of our favourite cities on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. Walk around the preserved Old City, visit temples, eat delicious Northern Thai food and explore the beautiful nature around the city. Chiang Mai is also a great spot for shopping!
It takes 4 hours by bus or minivan to get from Pai to Chiang Mai by bus. The best way to get around Chiang Mai is by using Grab, a scooter, songthaew, tuk-tuk, tour & walking.
Things to do in Chiang Mai
- Visit Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan & Wat Phra That Doi Kham
- Browse around the Night Bazaar or Sunday Walking Street Markets
- Take a Thai Cooking Class
- Have fun at the Grand Canyon Water Park
Where to stay in Chiang Mai – BB House Budget & Boutique ($) – Find the link here!
Our Thailand Travel Guides: 11+ Best Thailand Travel Tips, 1 month Thailand itinerary & 2 Week Thai Islands Itinerary!
Indonesia | 14 days
Indonesia | Day 76 – 90 (14 days)
After spending just over a week in the beautiful North of Thailand, it’s time to head to your last country on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary. On our first trip to Southeast Asia, we ended our time relaxing on the beaches of Indonesia and it was the best way to prepare for home.
Spend 2 weeks exploring the Gili islands, the Nusa islands and beautiful Bali whilst enjoying the delicious Indonesian cuisine, and admiring the rice paddies, waterfalls and Balinese culture.
Bali (Ubud) – 3 days
Start your trip in central Bali surrounded by jungle and rice paddies! Ubud is one of the most beautiful places in Bali with nature, markets and the best food. 2-3 days is the perfect amount of time here to settle into the Bali lifestyle whilst checking out the best things to do in Ubud.
The best way to get from Thailand to Indonesia is by flying! Chiang Mai has an international airport and you may have to layover in Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur before getting to Bali Denpasar airport. The flight from Bangkok to Bali is around 4.5 hours.
The best way to get around mainland Bali is by taxi, scooter, Gojek and hiring a driver.
Things to do in Bali, Ubud
- Explore the rice fields (Tegallalang Rice Terrace)
- Visit the Monkey Forest & Campuhan Ridge Walk
- Discover the surrounding waterfalls (Tegenungan Waterfall)
- Drive north to Sekumpul Waterfalls
Where to stay in Bali, Ubud – Parthi Puri Ubud ($) – Find the link here!
➤ Travelling on a budget? Check out our Southeast Asia Budget Guide!
Gili Trawangan – 2 days
Head over to the Gili Islands (part of Lombok) to relax and explore the world underwater! Gili T is one of three Gili islands and is mostly known as the popular party island. We have stayed on all three and Gili T definitely has the most development and infrastructure which means more guesthouses, restaurants and shops.
There are a few ways how to get from Bali to Gili T but generally, it should take around 3 hours by mini-van and speedboat. The Gili islands have no roads, so the best way to get around Gili Trawangan is by walking or bicycle.
Things to do in Gili Trawangan
- Snorkel with the turtles
- Explore the island by bicycle
- Relax on the beaches
- Visit the shops & markets
Where to stay in Gili Trawangan – Little Woodstock Homestay ($) – Find the link here!
Gili Air – 2 days
Gili Air is the third island out of the Gili islands and on the way, you will pass Gili Meno (the second island). Gili Meno is the quietest of the three islands which is why we recommend you visit Gili Air unless you want a quieter few days! Gili Air is laidback and has many restaurants to keep you busy whilst enjoying the beaches.
It takes 20 minutes to get from Gili Trawangan to Gili Air by speedboat and the best way to get around Gili Air is by walking or bicycle.
Things to do in Gili Air
- Go Snorkelling (Find the underwater statues)
- Find the swings at the beach
- Watch sunsets at the beach
Where to stay in Gili Air – Kelapa Gading Bungalows ($) – Find the link here!
Nusa Penida – 3 days
Nusa Penida is known as the smaller version of Bali nestled in between Bali and Lombok. Spend the next 3 days exploring beautiful beaches, viewpoints and all the best things to do in Nusa Penida!
It takes around 2.5 hours to get from Gili Air to Nusa Penida by speedboat and the best way to get around Nusa Penida is by scooter, car rental or tour.
Things to do in Nusa Penida
- Visit Diamond Beach & Atuh Beach
- Hike down to Kelingking Beach
- Explore Broken Beach
- Admire the views from Teletubbies Hill
Where to stay in Nusa Penida – The Kleep Jungle Resort ($) – Find the link here!
Nusa Lembongan – 2 days
Nusa Lembongan is another tropical island just next to Bali with wonderful nature, wildlife and coastal cliffs. It’s a great place to spend 2 days before making your way back to mainland Bali to end your 3 months in Southeast Asia.
It takes around 20 minutes to get from Nusa Penida to Nusa Lembongan and the best way to get around Nusa Lembongan is by scooter, taxi or tour.
Things to do in Nusa Lembongan
- Watch the waves at Devil’s Tears
- Snorkel or dive with Manta Rays
- Explore the Mangroves
- Visit the many beaches on the island
Where to stay in Nusa Lembongan – Wahyu Homestay 1 ($) – Find the link here!
Bali (Canggu) – 2 days
End your 3 months in Southeast Asia on the beaches of Bali before catching a flight out of Asia. Canggu is becoming more popular each year with travellers enjoying the waves, rice paddies and massive amounts of western cafes and Balinese food.
It takes around 2 hours to get from Nusa Lembongan to Bali, Canggu and the best way to get around Bali, Canggu is by scooter, Grab, taxi or tour.
Things to do in Bali (Canggu)
- Chill at Batu Bolong Beach & Berawa Beach
- Surf at Canggu Beach
- Explore the markets, cafes and restaurants
Where to stay in Bali, Canggu – Leyeh Leyeh Homestay ($) – Find the link here!
3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary Breakdown
- Singapore | Day 1 – 4 (3 days)
- Malaysia | Day 4 – 14 (10 days)
- Southern Thailand & Bangkok | Day 14 – 27 (13 days)
- Cambodia | Day 27 – 39 (12 days)
- Vietnam | Day 39 – 61 (22 days)
- Laos | Day 61 – 68 (7 days)
- Northern Thailand | Day 68 – 76 (8 days)
- Indonesia | Day 76 – 90 (14 days)
Copy and paste the full itinerary into your Google Sheets - Find the link here!
Just like that, we’ve come to the end of this 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary! As the region is so big with multiple countries, there’s no time to fit every destination in. We loved Southeast Asia so much that we made sure to visit again and explore more areas whilst revisiting our favourite spots. In the future, we’d love to explore Malaysian Borneo, Myanmar, and more of Indonesia and Laos.
We hope that this 3 months in Southeast Asia itinerary is the best plan for you to create the best backpacking trip with the option to change a few things around!
Other places to visit during 3 Months in Southeast Asia
- Myanmar
- The Philippines (Here’s our 3 weeks Philippines Itinerary)
- More of Indonesia
- Borneo Island (The Malaysian side)
- Brunei
Best time to visit Southeast Asia
The best time to visit Southeast Asia is between November and March in the dry season. However, it’s totally possible to explore the jungles in the rainy season when the colours are fresh!
In Laos and Northern Thailand, farmers burn their crops around March and the pollution is pretty bad. We recommend visiting at the beginning of the dry season when waterfalls are still beautiful and the air is still breathable! Some of the ferries to islands from June to September may have delays if there’s bad weather.
What to pack for 3 months in Southeast Asia
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle – One of the most important items to bring on a trip to SEA.
- International Worldwide Travel Adaptor – The best plug for travelling to multiple countries!
- Amazon Basics Packing Cubes – The easiest way to pack your backpack!
- Sawyer Mini Water Filter – Perfect to pair with a reusable water bottle & save plastic!
- Waterproof Bag 20L with Waterproof Phone Case – Keep your valuables safe when island hopping!
- Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit – This tripod is the best lightweight tripod out there, helping you capture amazing shots if there’s no one around. We use a Joby GorillaPod with our Sony A6000 and would highly recommend it!
- Mosquito spray – The best mosquito spray to buy before a 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary.
➤ Here’s our Southeast Asia Packing Guide!
How to get to Southeast Asia
There are multiple airports around the region including big cities and small islands. The best way to get to Southeast Asia is to fly into Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. These destinations usually have the best-priced flights with direct and stopover options.
We’ve visited Southeast Asia twice – the first time was from London to Singapore and the second time was from Sri Lanka to Phuket, Thailand. At the time we also saw flights to Phuket for the same price as London to Sri Lanka.
The best way to find great flights is to check Skyscanner!
Helpful Info for a 3 month Southeast Asia Itinerary
When travelling throughout Southeast Asia it’s important to remember and respect the culture of each country. Cover up when visiting temples and wear beachwear only at beach areas or pools!
The main religions in Southeast Asia are: Islam, Buddhist, Hinduism, Christianity (Philippines) with many more throughout the countries.
There’s going to be delays during your Southeast Asia trip. A lot of transport in the region runs on island time – which means things usually take slower and sometimes you don’t really know whats going on. With the help of friendly locals, we always make it from A to B.
Pack light – You’re going to carry your bag around for 3 months in Southeast Asia! If it’s heavy, you will regret it. The less you pack the better, you can buy almost anything you need in these countries.
Visas in Southeast Asia
As you’ll be exploring 7 countries on this 3 month Southeast Asia itinerary, you’ll have to consider getting multiple visas. Some of these visas cost money or are needed in advance. Here’s visa information for UK passport holders in the 7 countries on this itinerary:
- Singapore – Visa-free on arrival (90 days)
- Malaysia – Visa-free on arrival (90 days)
- Thailand – Visa-free on arrival (30 days)
- Cambodia – USD$30 visa on arrival (30 days)
- Vietnam – up to 15 days for free or around USD$20 for a 30 day visa (apply about 1 week before travel online)
- Laos – USD$35 visa on arrival (30 days)
- Indonesia – Free tourist visa on arrival (30 days)
Alternative 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary (missing out Laos)
If you need more time in some of these countries, removing Laos from this itinerary may be best. As sad as it is to remove a country, during 3 months in Southeast Asia you’re going to be exhausted on the move all the time! It takes a little while to get to Laos and the time can be spent in other countries.
- Singapore (3 days)
- Malaysia (12 days)
- Southern Thailand & Bangkok (16 days)
- Cambodia (12 days)
- Vietnam (24 days)
- Northern Thailand (9 days)
- Indonesia (14 days)
5 Months in Southeast Asia Itinerary
- Singapore (4 days)
- Malaysia (14 days)
- Southern Thailand & Bangkok (21 days)
- Cambodia (14 days)
- Vietnam (30 days)
- Northern Thailand (10 days)
- Indonesia (21 days)
- Malaysian Borneo (12 days)
- The Philippines (21 days)
If you have longer than 3 months in Southeast Asia, spend longer in each country or hop over to more islands in the region. When backpacking Southeast Asia remember to take rest days and chill – it’s tiring to travel around a lot but it’s also amazing!
More Asia guides:
- 3 Day Siquijor Itinerary, Philippines
- 3 Day Bohol Itinerary, Philippines
- 4 Day Penang Itinerary, Malaysia
- The Best 2 week South Thailand Itinerary
- Southeast Asia Packing Guide
- Southeast Asia Budget Guide
- All our Southeast Asia posts!
That’s the end of our The Best 3 Month Southeast Asia Itinerary: 2024! Have the best trip and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!
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Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! – SafetyWing Nomad Insurance
SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your 3 Month Southeast Asia itinerary and anywhere in the world. Find out more here!
Singapore is definitely on my list (for Gardens by the Bay) but you’ve made me want to travel so much more. <3 love the packing tips