Our 9 Best Asia Itineraries for First-Timers

Length: 9 days

Places Visited: New Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Varanasi

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

India is a whirlwind of color and history, where culture builds on millennia of history experienced in the hidden temples, magnificent monuments, and aromatic spices you can find during your  9-Day Culinary and Cultural Heritage Tour of India.

From the vibrant streets of Delhi to the iconic bulbous domes of the Taj Mahal, the pink tint of the architecture in Jaipur to the symbolic shapes and hues of henna explored during a private class, India embraces its uniqueness by celebrating authentic tastes and magnificent traditions that welcome you as a familiar friend.

Learn more: India Tours & Vacations • India Travel Guide

Length: 16 days

Places Visited: Osaka, Kanazawa, Naoshima, Kyoto, Kagoshima, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Tokyo

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

This Beauty of Fall Foliage: 16 Day Luxury Tour of Japan highlights the scenery in the fall as it sings with color. The leaves change, turning the landscape into a painter’s palette surrounding traditional temples and decorating serene parks.

Unique architectural designs sprout from the foliage, bringing the past to life in the form of castles and monasteries, while modern architecture embraces artistic form celebrated on a remote island. Whether interested in viewing geishas walking across idyllic bridges or interested in the flavors of a traditional market, Japan’s beauty becomes accessible and immersive.

Learn more: Japan Tours & Vacations • Japan Travel Guide

Length: 8 days

Places Visited: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Mekong Delta

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Vietnam can feel like a completely different world, where the landscape takes on majestic charms featured in the eight-day Amazing Vietnam Vacation: Karst Islands to Imperial Citadels. Cruise through the idyllic waters of Ha Long Bay, weaving between soaring granite towers, or wander beneath the crumbling grandeur of the powerful Nguyen Dynasty.

Connect with celebrated local chefs and taste their magnetic flavors or zigzag along Hai Van Pass for illustrious views as you soak in the spectacle of Vietnam's scenery, while experiencing welcoming traditions.

Learn more: Vietnam Tours & Vacations • Vietnam Travel Guide

Length: 11 days

Places Visited: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Town, Koh Phi Phi

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

This 11-day Tantalizing Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Krabi Tour offers a combination of rich culture and captivating scenery, turning Thailand into an unimaginable adventure.

Grand palaces, surprising canals, marvelous mountain panoramas, and distinctive local tribes provide a window into the memorable connections you can make as you explore forested trails or learn the art of traditional dishes.

With white-sand beaches, fabulous temple complexes, and crystal-clear water, Thailand is a treasure chest of endless opportunities.

Learn more: Thailand Tours & Vacations • Thailand Travel Guide

Length: 15 days

Places Visited: Phuket, Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Siem Reap

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Family-friendly and endlessly exciting, the 15-day Thailand and Cambodia Essential Experiences Tour can feel like an immersion into luxurious exploration. Sail along the Andaman Sea for fabulous views of tropical islands.

Embrace the spiritual ambiance of the Royal Palace complex in Bangkok, witness the masterful motifs and images of Buddha decorating the Angkor Temples, and visit a traditional floating village rising above the quiet waters of Tonle Sap Lake.

The combination of delicious cuisine, fascinating history, local customs, and graceful demonstrations of culture reveal excitement the entire family can enjoy.

Learn more: Thailand & Cambodia Tours • Cambodia Travel Guide

Length: 14 days

Places Visited: Thirappane, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, Hatton, Galle, Bentota, Colombo, Laamu Atoll

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Romance in Tropical Sri Lanka and The Maldives is an incredible immersion into distinct tropical paradises. Gorgeous beachside resorts, the marvels of mountainous vistas, and the allure of clear waters offer the perfect getaway to island bliss.

Visit cherished ancient temples, explore grand ancient ruins, indulge in aromatic spices, and embrace the elegance of a stunning seascape. Soak in the tranquil ambiance as you find passion and romance across the tropical islands of Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Learn more: Maldives Vacations & Tour Packages • Maldives Travel Guide

Length: 17 days

Places Visited: Delhi, Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Jaipur, Sawarda, Kathmandu, Kurintar, Chitwan National Park, Pokhara

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Heritage and history intertwine during this 17-day Best of India and Nepal Vacation. The wonder of the region spreads from the Taj Mahal to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas, the stunning remains of a Mughal empire to the staggering collection of Buddhist temples.

Find new ways to search for thrilling wildlife and its connection to local culture, indulge in the expansive views of the world’s tallest mountain range, and witness the combined beauty of golden desert and pink architectural walls as you uncover the collective charisma of India and Nepal.

Learn more: Nepal & India Tours • Nepal Tours & Vacations

Length: 21 days

Places Visited: Siem Reap, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay, Luang Prabang, Pakbeng, Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Active 3-Week Adventure of Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand's Cultural Highlights provides visitors with ample opportunities to discover the limitless treasures of Southeast Asia. Capture the fascinating artwork and robust culinary traditions, the sensational scenery and inspiring history that will take you beyond Hanoi and Bangkok, Phnom Penh and Vientiane.

Weave between impressive karsts, glide down the Bon River, cycle to ancient temple complexes, sample the customary flavors of local cuisine, and enjoy the forested wilderness for a joyful perspective of the past, present, and future.

Learn more: Southeast Asia Tours & Vacations • Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Length: 8 days

Places Visited: Nusa Dua, Ubud, Gili Islands, Bali Island

Why we recommend this sample itinerary:

Bali is a serene gateway, perfect for recharging your mind and spirit during this eight-day Rejuvenating Tropical Getaway Vacation to Bali. The island is often referred to as a paradise, with ample opportunities to slow down and enjoy the aromas of wild frangipani and listen to the sounds of crashing waves, or embrace the connection to the island’s vibrant Hindu traditions.

Explore fascinating temples, witness the famous scenery, and find revitalization in a mixture of calming spiritual waters and traditional island flavors. Snorkel, learn customary farming techniques, or bask in the tranquility of the mountains for the perfect tropical escape.

Learn more: Bali Vacations & Tours • Bali Travel Guide

Natural wonder, precious historical architecture, and participating in age-old traditions add to the allure of an Asia travel itinerary.

From trekking through the Himalayas in Nepal to viewing the Taj Mahal in India, wandering the bridges of Kyoto in Japan to viewing the temples of Angkor in Cambodia, each country displays its own treasured past and contemporary charm.

Find more ideas on how you can explore the scenery, embrace new customs, and experience the culture of a new country with more sample Asia tour packages & vacations. You can also discover new ideas on where to go, what to do, and more with our Asia travel guide.