The best Cambodia Itineraries

Cambodia is a small country by Asian standards, but you’ll still need at least a month to really see everything it has to offer. The rapidly improving road network means that it has never been easier to explore, making many formerly remote destinations much more accessible. Obviously, not everyone can afford to spend a month exploring, so we've done our best to put together Cambodia itineraries that will allow you to see the country in a shorter time, but without sacrificing the experience.

Recommended Cambodia itineraries

To fully experience the richness of Cambodia, it is important to have a well-structured itinerary to suit the duration of your trip. Here's an overview of Cambodia itineraries to help inspire your adventure:

• 7 days in Cambodia - perfect for those who want to capture the essence of Cambodia's stunning landscapes and rich culture. This itinerary typically includes visits to the majestic Angkor Wat, the bustling streets of Phnom Penh and the charming city of Siem Reap.
• 10 days in Cambodia - provides an opportunity to delve deeper into Cambodia's iconic landmarks. Explore the ancient ruins of Angkor, discover the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh and perhaps enjoy a serene holiday on the beaches of Sihanoukville or Kepa.
• 14 days in Cambodia - a comprehensive itinerary that allows you to thoroughly explore the beauty of Cambodia, from the historic depths of Angkor and the vibrant life of the capital to the tranquil countryside and coastal areas such as Kampot and the idyllic island of Koh Rong.

Align your trip with Cambodia's diverse offerings for a rich travelling experience tailored to your interests and the unique character of the different regions and seasons.

Cambodia itinerary 7 days

The 7-day itinerary offers the perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing you to see highlights of Cambodia's rich heritage and breathtaking scenery without rushing.

• Day 1 - Arrival in Siem Reap: Arrive in Siem Reap and start your adventure with a visit to the National Museum of Angkor, followed by an evening walk.
• Day 2 - Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom: Watch the majestic sunrise at Angkor Wat, then spend the day exploring the ancient city of Angkor Thom and the mysterious Bayon Temple. End the day with a traditional performance of the Apsara dance during an evening dinner.
• Day 3 - Ta Prohm and Banteay Srei: Visit the atmospheric Ta Prohm Temple, where nature and architecture are wonderfully intertwined. Later, head to Banteay Srei, a 10th-century temple known for its intricate carvings and stunning pink sandstone.
• Day 4 - Kampong Phluk and Tonle Sap Lake: Explore Kampong Phuluk, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake, and take a boat tour to see the unique submerged forests and local life on the water.
• Day 5 - Travel to Phnom Penh: Depart Siem Reap for Phnom Penh, where you will visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, followed by an evening stroll along the lively riverside.
• Day 6 - Historical Sites in Phnom Penh: Dedicate this day to learning about Cambodia's recent history by visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeng Ek killing fields. Afterwards, explore the treasures housed in the National Museum.
• Day 7 - Departure from Phnom Penh: Spend your final morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast and some last minute shopping at the Central Market before preparing to depart.

Cambodia itinerary 10 days

Experience the best of Cambodia with a 10-day itinerary that takes you beyond the usual tourist destinations, offering a combination of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion.

• Day 1 - Arrival in Phnom Penh: Arriving in Phnom Penh, check into your hotel and relax. Later, explore the lively streets and enjoy a welcome dinner of Cambodian cuisine at one of the local restaurants.
• Day 2 - Explore Phnom Penh: Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum and stroll along the riverbank to soak up the dynamic atmosphere of the city.
• Day 3 - Phnom Penh Historical Sites: Spend the day visiting important historical sites including the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeng Ek Killing Fields to learn about Cambodia's recent history.
• Day 4 - Travel to Battambang: Depart by coach to Battambang. After checking into your hotel, take a relaxing walk along the Sangker River and have lunch at one of the riverside cafes.
• Day 5 - Battambang's Countryside: Explore the countryside on a guided bike ride, visit local villages and take a bamboo train ride. Discover ancient temples and traditional markets.
• Day 6 - Travel to Siem Reap via Floating Village: Travel to Siem Reap, stopping at Kampong Chhnang Floating Village to observe life on the water. In the evening, arrive in Siem Reap.
• Day 7 - Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom: Start with sunrise at Angkor Wat and then spend the day exploring Angkor Thom and other nearby temples such as Bayon and Ta Prohm.
• Day 8 - Banteay Srei and Kbal Spean: Visit the intricate Banteay Srei Temple and head to Kbal Spean, an archaeological site known as the "River of a Thousand Lingams" for its carved riverbed.
• Day 9 - Travel to Sihanoukville: Fly by plane or take a private transfer to Sihanoukville. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the city.
• Day 10 - Departure day: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy your last moments in Sihanoukville before heading to the airport for departure.

Cambodia itinerary 14 days

Explore Cambodia in great detail with a 14-day itinerary that passes through historic sites, unspoilt natural landscapes and vibrant urban areas, providing a comprehensive introduction to Cambodia's diverse offerings.

Day 1 - Arrival in Phnom Penh: Arrive in Phnom Penh, check into your hotel and spend your first day relaxing or exploring the surrounding streets.
Day 2 - Phnom Penh City Tour: Explore the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda and the National Museum to learn about Khmer culture and history.
Day 3 - Phnom Penh History tour: Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeng Ek Killing Fields to understand Cambodia's recent turbulent history.
Day 4 - Travelling to Kratie: Depart for Kratie, a small town on the banks of the Mekong. Enjoy a sunset cruise to see the rare Irrawaddy dolphins.
Day 5 - Kratie - Mondulkiri: Depart for Mondulkiri, known for its rolling hills and ethnic minority villages. Settle in an eco-lodge and get ready for the next day's adventure.
Day 6 - Elephant Encounter in Mondulkiri: Spend the day at an elephant sanctuary where you can interact with these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation.
Day 7 - Explore the nature of Mondulkiri:
Hike through the lush jungle and visit local waterfalls such as Bu Sraa. Learn about the indigenous culture of the area.
Day 8 - Journey to Siem Reap: Transfer to the bus to Siem Reap. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps exploring the lively night markets.
Day 9 - Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom: Visit the iconic temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. Don't miss the sunset with Phnom Bakheng.
Day 10 - More temples and craftsmen: Explore the temples of Ta Prohm and Preah Khan. In the afternoon, visit Artisans Angkor to see silk making and traditional handicrafts.
Day 11 - Siem Reap - Battambang: Depart for Battambang. Upon arrival, take a tuk-tuk tour of the city's colonial architecture and visit the local market.
Day 12 - Bat caves and countryside in Battambang: Cycle through the countryside and visit Phnom Sampov Bat Caves to see thousands of bats at dusk.
Day 13 - Travelling back to Phnom Penh: Return to Phnom Penh. Spend your last full day shopping at the Central Market and exploring all the sights you missed.
Day 14 - Depart Phnom Penh: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take care of last-minute errands before heading to the airport for your departure.

How to plan your Cambodia travel itinerary

Planning your Cambodia travel itinerary involves a few key steps that will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. Firstly, decide on the length of your trip: Cambodia offers a wealth of experiences whether you have a week or a fortnight. Think about what interests you most: exploring ancient temples, vibrant city life, relaxing on the beaches or immersing yourself in the dense jungle.

Choose regions according to these interests. For short trips, focus on one or two regions; for longer trips, combine places such as the majestic temples of Angkor in Siem Reap, the bustling city life of Phnom Penh, the serene beaches of Sihanoukville or the tranquil town of Kampot.

Weather conditions are also crucial as they can have a significant impact on your holiday (more on this later). The rainy season from May to October has lush landscapes and few tourists, while the dry season from November to April is ideal for temple tours and beach visits.

Also, book your accommodation and transport in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, for a better experience. Cambodia's developing infrastructure, including buses, domestic flights and private transfers, makes travelling between different regions increasingly accessible.

How many days do you need in Cambodia?

The number of days you'll need in Cambodia depends largely on your interests, the pace of your trip, and the regions you want to explore. Here's a general guide to help you decide:

• 3-5 days: Ideal for focusing on one or two regions, such as spending time exploring the temples of Angkor in Siem Reap and taking a day trip to nearby attractions such as Tonle Sap Lake. This duration is suitable for those who want to experience Cambodia's historical and cultural attractions without extensive travelling.
• 7-10 days: Allows for a more relaxed exploration of a few key areas. You can start in the capital Phnom Penh, exploring its historical sites, then head to Siem Reap to visit the archaeological park of Angkor, and finish with a holiday on the beaches of Sihanoukville or in the tranquil town of Kampot. This duration will allow you to enjoy a mix of Cambodia's urban and natural attractions.
• 2-3 weeks: Ideal for a comprehensive Cambodia tour. With more time, you will be able to explore each region in depth, from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to the remote temples of Preah Vihear and the unspoilt natural beauty of the Cardamom Mountains.

Getting around during your Cambodia trip

Travelling around Cambodia is becoming increasingly convenient with a variety of travel options to suit different preferences and budgets:

• Car rental: Renting a car provides flexibility and is ideal if you prefer to travel at your own pace. While roads in cities are well maintained, be prepared for less developed roads in rural areas. It is advisable to choose a vehicle with good ground clearance, especially if you plan to explore remote areas.
• Buses: For those who prefer not to drive, Cambodia has an extensive bus network between major cities and tourist destinations. Buses are an affordable and reliable way to travel between cities and more remote areas.
• Domestic flights: Although Cambodia is not very large, domestic flights can be a quick way to travel between key regions, such as from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap or Sihanoukville. Airlines such as Cambodia Angkor Air offer scheduled flights, although they tend to be more expensive than other modes of transport.
• Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis: Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are ubiquitous in cities and towns and are an economical and authentic way to get around. They are ideal for short journeys and navigating the often congested streets.
• Bicycles: Renting a bicycle is popular in areas like Siem Reap, where many attractions are close together. A bicycle is a scenic and leisurely way to explore the temples of Angkor Wat and the surrounding area.
• Boats: For travelling between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap or visiting floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, boats offer a scenic alternative. Travelling along the river provides a different perspective on the Cambodian landscape and is particularly enjoyable during the cooler dry season.

When's the best time to visit Cambodia?

The best time to visit Cambodia depends largely on your interests, particularly whether you prefer to explore the country during the cool dry season or the rainy season.

• Dry season (November to April): This is the ideal time to visit Cambodia's temples and historical sites, such as the majestic Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. The weather is cool and dry, making it comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the cities. This period includes the peak tourist months of December to February, where you'll see colourful festivals such as the Cambodian Water Festival and Chinese New Year.
• Rainy Season (May to October): Although this is the monsoon season, morning showers are usually followed by clear skies, offering ample opportunities for travelling. The countryside is lush and green, and the temples of Angkor are less crowded, making them more peaceful. It's also a great time for budget travellers, as accommodation and tourist prices are often lower. In addition, Tonle Sap Lake swells several times, making it ideal for boat trips to see floating villages and submerged forests.
• Hot months (March to May): These months can be particularly hot, but it's still a good time to visit coastal areas such as Sihanoukville or islands such as Koh Rong to relax on the beach and also enjoy water activities.

Best places to add to your travel Cambodia itinerary

Phnom Penh

The Cambodian capital, is an attractive riverside city of broad boulevards and numerous sights. Until relatively recently rather shabby and run-down owing to the long years of war and four years of Khmer Rouge abandonment, the future now looks bright, with new shopping centres, luxury residence complexes, enormous hotels, and fine-dining restaurants opening often. Most of the important attractions for the tourist are located beside or within walking distance of the Phnom Penh riverside, and this area also contains many of the best restaurants and cafés.

Phnom Penh environs

There are many interesting places within easy reach of Phnom Penh. Make a day-trip to see fine examples of classical Khmer temple architecture or gain an introduction to the Cambodian countryside.

Although the most important classical Khmer antiquities are either clustered at Angkor or scattered around the still relatively inaccessible fringes of the country, there are worthwhile historical sites within a short driving distance of Phnom Penh at Tonlé Bati and Angkor Borei to the south of the city, and at Udong, a former capital, to the north.

Siem Reap and Battambang

The inland towns of Siem Reap and Battambang are strikingly different from one other, but both have a lot to offer. Once a minor market centre, Siem Reap’s proximity to the great temples at Angkor has transformed it into a boom town, replete with tourist facilities. In contrast, Battambang remains a working Cambodian city, with relatively quiet streets, fine French colonial architecture, little-visited Angkor-era temples and an emerging arts scene. It is possible to travel between the two towns by boat across Tonlé Sap lake in rainy season.

Angkor

This ancient capital of the Khmer kingdom is the cultural and spiritual heart of Cambodia. Although monumental in scale, it offers intimate glimpses into lives lived in a distant past.

Angkor is one of the wonders of the world. Perhaps nowhere else on earth, except in the Valley of the Nile in Egypt, are the relics of antiquity found in such overwhelming grandeur. Dating from the golden years of the Khmer civilisation between around AD 800 and 1300, Angkor is a unique repository of incredible craftsmanship on a staggering scale. The sense of a mysterious “lost world” is heightened by the jungle setting, with some of the temples (notably Ta Prohm and Preah Khan) surrounded by writhing roots, lianas and giant forest trees.

Preah Vihear

The temple of Preah Vihear is one of the most impressive Khmer historical sites, perched on an elevated promontory and offering sweeping views into neighbouring Thailand

Set high on a cliff on the edge of the Dangrek Mountains overlooking Cambodia, Preah Vihear (known to the Thais as Khao Phra Viharn) is remarkable both for its interesting Khmer architecture and for its stunning location. Long claimed by both Thailand and Cambodia, the temple complex was finally awarded to the latter by the World Court in 1963, though the question of ownership still rankles with many Thais. 

This has led to periodic military skirmishes, resulting in the occasional temporary closure of the site to visitors. The most recent flare-up was in 2013, after which the International Court of Justice ruled that the area on the east and west of the temple belongs to Cambodia. Thailand was ordered to withdraw all military personal, but provisions were made to allow easier access to the area from across the border – a compromise which appears, for the time being, to have greatly eased tensions. The temple is open for visitors once more, though it pays to check the current situation.

Do you need a visa to enter Cambodia?

A visa is required for most travellers planning to visit Cambodia. ASEAN nationals can enter Cambodia without a visa for up to 30 days, but travellers from many other countries, including the US, UK, EU and Australia, need to obtain a visa.

Cambodia offers several convenient options for obtaining a tourist visa: you can apply for an e-visa online before travelling, or obtain a visa on arrival at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap international airports and major land borders.

A tourist visa is valid for single entry and allows you to stay in the country for 30 days, which can be extended for a further 30 days through local immigration offices.

To enter Cambodia, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Along with your visa or visa approval letter, you will also need to have proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or an itinerary showing further plans.

In some cases you may be asked to provide proof of sufficient funds for accommodation and details of where you are staying.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is best to consult the official website of the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation or contact your nearest Cambodian embassy or consulate before travelling.

You can find even more useful information in our Cambodia travel tips.