From immersive temple runs to experiencing rich cultural heritage, if there’s one country that teleports you straight to the land of the ancient, it’s Cambodia. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, this beautiful kingdom seamlessly merges the wonders of colonial charm with a bustling modern culture. From the architectural marvel of Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument, to Tonlé Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, our meticulously curated Cambodia itinerary takes you on a journey through time and tradition over 10 days.
Explore our selection of offbeat tourist destinations in Cambodia for inspiration.
Architectural prowess, verdant jungles, vibrant night markets, majestic temple complexes, tranquil promenades, and bustling streets – each part of Cambodia uncovers a layer of its rich history, resilient spirit, and timeless beauty. Some popular tourist magnets to include in your Cambodia itinerary are Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong, Siem Reap, Kratiem Kampong Cham, and Battambang, among others.
Best time to visit Cambodia
The best time to visit Cambodia is between November and early February when the weather is the coolest. But, it’s also the peak tourist season. Avoid travelling to the country from February end to June as those are the hottest months in Cambodia.
Cambodia itinerary days 1-2: Exploring Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh International Airport | Image credit: Dion Hinchcliffe/Flickr
You can start your Cambodia itinerary from either Phnom Penh or Siem Reap as both are well-connected to international flights and are convenient starting points for travelling to other cities in Cambodia. We’ll be kicking off our adventure from the capital city of Phnom Penh, so book your flight tickets for the Phnom Penh International Airport.
Visa: All travellers need an e-visa for travelling to Cambodia. You can apply online, pay the fees (approximately USD 35.94 to USD 47.92/RM 166 to RM 224), and await confirmation. It usually takes three days to process the visa for Cambodia.
Once at the Phnom Penh International Airport, reach the main centre or your hotel via bus (#No. n°3), tuk-tuk, or taxi. Download Cambodian taxi apps PassApp or Grab. Freshen up at the hotel and prep to be ready for day 1 of your explorations.
Pro tip: Pick an accommodation near Riverside, also called the Sisowath Quay, as most attractions are located close to this neighbourhood.
Phnom Penh Royal Palace | Image credit: Nikin Kovilakath, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Start day 1 of your Cambodia itinerary by feasting on some local delicacies for lunch. Consider Noodle Shop or David’s Restaurant – Homemade Noodles for authentic kuy teav, a Cambodian dish with flavorful broth served with rice noodles and your choice of meat. Next, visit the Royal Palace, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phnom Penh. Your Cambodia itinerary is incomplete without visiting this grand symbol of Cambodia’s architectural splendour, royal heritage and intricate Khmer designs. The palace, part of which houses Cambodia’s Royal Family and is not open to the public, is open from 8 am to 10.30 am and 2 pm to 5 pm.
Mekong River | Image credit: Hanay, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Take a five-minute drive to the riverside promenade against the Mekong River and enjoy a scenic sunset while sipping coffee at a cafe, simply walk by while enjoying the view of the city’s skyline, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. Brown Coffee and Bakery comes highly recommended. You can also book a sunset cruise that comes with beautiful views, traditional Khmer cuisine, and entertainment. Alternatively, three-hour-long evening food tours introduce you to Cambodia’s street food delicacies and craft beer. Phnom Penh also boasts a thriving nightlife full of lively bars and live music. Bassac Lane and Street 308 are the best nightlife hubs in the city.
Explore more with our guide to Cambodia’s best hotels, spas, pools and more.
The Killing Fields | Image credit: Christian Haugen/Flickr
Dedicate the first half of day 2 of your Cambodia itinerary to the disturbing but essential experience of understanding the country’s history through the Khmer Rouge regime of the late 1970s. Located 20 km from the main city, visit The Killing Fields in Choeung Ek, one of the many memorial sites where millions of Cambodians were executed, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21), a high school-turned-prison-turned-museum exhibiting prison cells, torture tools, photographs, and survivor testimonies that state the horrors that took place behind these walls.
Pro tip: We recommend booking the half-day hop-on-hop-off bus that covers both sites, including pick up and drop off at your hotel.
Wat Phnom | Image credit: Marcin Konsek, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Post lunch, take a 15-minute hike up to Wat Phnom, a pristine Buddhist temple perched on a hilltop, to admire its intricate architecture, spiritual ambience, and panoramic views. Spend the rest of your evening exploring the Russian market or Tuol Tompoung, perfect for shopping, street food, street art, and simply absorbing the bustling neighbourhood vibe. From antiques and jewellery to handicrafts and decor, indulge in street shopping as you brush up on your bargaining skills. Enjoy the nightlight through the many quaint cafes, lively bars, and local joints.
Best hotels in Phnom Penh: The Bale, Patio, Tea Palace, The Plantation Urban Resort and Spa, La Rose Suites, and Fairfield by Marriott.
Travelling around in Phnom Penh: The best way to move around in Phnom Penh is by walking (within 20 minutes) or taking a tuk-tuk/taxi.
Book your stay at The Bale Phnom Penh by LifestyleRetreats via Booking.com
Book your stay at The Bale Phnom Penh by LifestyleRetreats via Agoda.com
Day 3-5: Kampot and Koh Rong
Kampot | Image credit: fabulousfabs/Flickr
On day 3, head to Kampot, a scenic and charming riverside city in the south of Cambodia, approximately four hours by road from Phnom Penh. Experience the magic of slow life, good weather, and peaceful countryside living here. Despite being a small town, Kampot offers a wide variety of food options and cuisines. Epic Arts Cafe, a cafe run by an NGO, comes highly recommended for its lip-smacking international delicacies and budget-friendly pricing for lunch. Coffee lovers can visit Cafe Espresso, known to serve the best coffee in Cambodia.
La Plantation Pepper Farm, Kampot | Image credit: PsamatheM, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
Take a pepper plantation and salt field tour next. Kampot is renowned for its centuries-old pepper plantations and for producing some of the best pepper in the world. La Plantation, a family-run organic pepper farm, is one of the most popular in Kampot, offering free guided tours. Spend the evening cycling or walking around the countryside or head to the tranquil ‘Secret Lake’ for some moments of peace. Next, grab dinner at Simple Things, another iconic pure vegetarian restaurant that promises good vegan options too.
Popokvil Waterfall | Image credit: Ankur Panchbudhe/Flickr
Start your day 4 early and head towards Bokor Mountain by bike or taxi. Once a popular hill station for the French colonists, the destination features an array of abandoned French colonial buildings, palaces, and cathedrals. Visit the nearby Popokvil Waterfall and the Bokor Mountain National Park with opportunities for trekking, hiking, and wildlife watching. On your way back, stop by the Bokor Mountain Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the Cambodian coastline and the Gulf of Thailand. Spend the rest of your day exploring the Phnom Sorsir caves (boasting Buddhist shrines inside and guided tours) or simply relaxing at Kep Beach, 1.5 hours away. The coastal town of Kep is also known for its seafood, especially crabs, with most restaurants serving seafood-inspired dishes. Alternatively, head back to Kampot to enjoy dinner at one of the many riverfront restaurants.
Best hotels in Kampot: Amber Kampot, Rivertree Resort, The Columns, The Greenhouse Retreat, Rikitikitavi, and The Plantation are some of the best hotels in Kampot.
Getting around in Kampot: Tuk-tuks and taxis are the best way to travel internally.
Book your stay at Amber Kampot via Booking.com
Book your stay at Amber Kampot via Agoda.com
Koh Rong | Image credit: Wikirictor, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons
On day 5 of your Cambodia itinerary, embark on a 4-5 hour journey (a mix of road and waterway) to Koh Rong island. Known for its crystal-clear waters, serene beaches, exciting jungle treks, and outdoor activities, your trip to Koh Rong can be all about relaxation and rejuvenation. Depending on your mood, visit Lonely Beach to avoid crowds or the busy Koh Touch Beach for its happening vibe. Other options include Long Set Beach and Sok San Beach. Beachside lunch recommendations include Monkey Island, Paradise Bungalows, Bamboo, and Koh Lanta. Hike to the Sunset point for a breathtaking sunset view of the islands. Book a local guide or tour to experience the magical bioluminescent plankton on Koh Rong beaches at night.
Cambodia itinerary days 6-7: Siem Reap
Koh Rong | Image credit: Rômulo Gama Ferreira/CC0 1.0 Deed | CC0 1.0 Universal | Creative Commons
Start day 6 with rejuvenation by indulging in a spa treatment with traditional Khmer therapies. Sok San Resort has a spa and a wellness centre that offers a variety of wellness treatments to relax your body and mind. Next up, go island hopping and spend the rest of the day enjoying water activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Pro tip: Book an inclusive boating tour with experiences like hidden caves, exploring nearby islands like Koh Rong Samloem, stunning beaches, and other outdoor activities.
Once back, you must experience the nightlife by attending lively and LIT beach parties, bar-hopping, grooving to live music and DJ nights, and simply dancing your heart out under the stars. Some clubs and bars that are known for their nightlife experience are Monkey Island, Coco Bar, and Island Boys.
Book your stay at Sok San Beach Resort via Booking.com
Book your stay at Sok San Beach Resort via Agoda.com
Tonle Sap Lake | Image credit: WorldFish/Flickr
Take a flight from Sihanoukville or hit the road to reach Siem Reap on day 7! A city known for its vibrant culture and rich history, Siem Reap offers a gateway to Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic landmarks in Cambodia. Local options to explore for lunch include Malis and Cuisine Wat Damnak. Visit the Angkor National Museum to learn about Khmer architecture and temples, enjoy the Cambodian circus called Phare, get on a helicopter for a bird’s-eye view of the Angkor Wat temple, or escape to the zen oasis of Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lakewater in Southeast Asia.
Spend your evening at the iconic Pub Street, a neon-lit alley that’s the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife. Pub-hop, sample local street food and enjoy drinks over live music. Some bars to try include Angkor What?, Banana Leaf, and Temple Club.
Cambodia itinerary days 8-10: Exploring Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat | Image credit: David Davis91/Shutterstock
Wake up by 5 am on day 8 to witness the most magical sunrise at the eighth wonder of the world, Angkor Wat. Sprawling across approximately 160 hectares, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is also the world’s largest religious structure. Watching the sunrise behind the magnificent silhouette of Angkor Wat tops every wanderlust soul’s Cambodia itinerary. Explore the Small Circuit of the temple structure, a popular tour route for the most iconic temple complexes including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei, and Srah Srang, each boasting the finest of Khmer architecture. End your tour by watching a magical sunset from Pre Rup, a temple mountain offering panoramic vistas during sunsets and the surrounding countryside.
Pro tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing, carry a packed lunch to save time, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. After a long day exploring the temple complexes, you can book a foot massage in downtown Siem Reap. Grab dinner at Peace Cafe (for a vegetarian and vegan take on Cambodian food) or New Hope Cafe.
Preah Khan | Image credit: Uwe Schwarzbach/Flickr
Explore the grand circuit of Angkor Wat on day 9 of your Cambodia itinerary. This route covers the temples on the outskirts of the central structure. Some must-visit temple structures include Preah Khan, Ta Som, Neak Pean, East Mebon, and Banteay Samre. Explore maze-like corridors, intricate carvings, and the peaceful atmosphere of these lesser-known centuries-old buildings. Each of the temples in the Angkor War transports you into the past and gives insights into ancient religious rituals and royal history.
Floating Village on Tonle Sap | Image credit: Dennis Jarvis/Flickr
On day 10 of your Cambodia itinerary, take some time to visit the unique floating village on Tonle Sap, where local Vietnamese and Khmer houses are perched on floating platforms. Reach the Siem Reap International Airport in time for your flight. You can also shop for some last-minute souvenirs from their duty-free zone, relish Khmer cuisine, or simply unwind at the dedicated quiet and resting zones.
Things to remember when travelling to Cambodia
Carry a mix of US dollars and Cambodian riel, as US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. In fact, the touristy areas of Cambodia largely quote prices in USD. Don’t be surprised if you pay in dollars and get the change in riel.
Make sure to carry a scarf, a pair of sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect your face from the sun and dust
Bargaining is common in Cambodia, especially at markets and with street vendors.
When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly, covering your legs and shoulders, and remove your shoes before entering sacred areas.
Keep hand sanitiser and mosquito repellent handy all the time.
Avoid drinking tap water as it’s unhygienic. Stick to purified or bottled water to avoid health issues.
Be cautious when using transportation services like tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
shop the best travel experiences here
(Feature Image Credit: Dennis Jarvis, CC0 1.0 UNIVERSAL Deed, via Wikimedia Commons)
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing.
Related: Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Cambodia’s Islands, For an Off-Grid Summer Escape
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
We may earn an affiliate commission when you shop through links on our site.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Question: How many days should I spend in Cambodia?
Answer: A week or ten days is enough to explore the main cities and tourist attractions in Cambodia.
Question: What are the must-visit destinations in Cambodia?
Answer: Phnom Penh, Kambot, Koh, Siem Reap, Kratiem Kampong Cham, and Battambang are some of the must-visit destinations in Cambodia.
Question: What should I pack for my trip to Cambodia?
Answer: Comfortable footwear, sun hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, swimwear for visiting beaches, and medications are some things you must pack for your Cambodia trip. The country generally uses Type A, Type C, and Type G – so pack the right adapter as well.
Question: Do I need a visa to visit Cambodia?
Answer: Yes, you need a visa to visit Cambodia and you can apply for it online.
Question: What are the transportation options in Cambodia?
Answer: The common transportation options in Cambodia are taxis, tuk-tuks, and scooters. Popular taxi apps include PassApp or Grab.
Question: Are there any safety precautions I should take in Cambodia?
Answer: Although Cambodia is a safe country, it’s always best to be vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings all the time; avoid stepping out late at night alone; beware of tourist scams; drink only purified and bottled water; and do not consume raw meat or undercooked food
Question: What activities are available in Cambodia besides sightseeing?
Answer: To take a break from sightseeing, you can sign up for Khmer cooking classes, explore street markets, go swimming at the islands, discover hidden trails in the rainforests, or simply walk or cycle around the countryside or the promenade.
Source link : https://www.travelandleisureasia.com/my/destinations/southeast-asia/cambodia-itinerary-10-days-phnom-penh-angkor-wat-siem-reap/amp/
Author :
Publish date : 2024-07-18 00:05:21
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.