Ready for your dream Cambodia vacation? From the mystical temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, the quiet rivers of Kampot to the sandy shores of Koh Rong, this guide outlines the ultimate Cambodia itinerary.
These easy-to-use curated Cambodia itineraries help you find the best things to do in Cambodia—featuring ancient ruins, floating villages, Khmer cuisine, tuk-tuk rides, and sunset river cruises.
Want to make your Cambodia trip even more special? Learn a few Khmer phrases before you go
- Siem Reap: The gateway to the majestic temples of Angkor—sunrise at Angkor Wat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Phnom Penh: Cambodia’s buzzing capital mixes royal palaces, riverfront vibes, and sobering Khmer Rouge history.
- Koh Rong: White sand, turquoise water, and no shoes needed—this island paradise is all about hammock time and barefoot beach bars.
- Battambang: Colonial charm and a creative pulse—ride the quirky bamboo train and explore countryside temples and art spaces.
- Kampot: A chill riverside town famous for pepper plantations, French architecture, and scenic motorbike rides.
- Kep: Once a French seaside retreat, now a quiet coastal getaway known for crab markets, ocean views, and lush hills.
- Tonlé Sap Lake: Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake offers floating villages and a glimpse into Cambodia’s water-based way of life.
💡 Cambodia Tips
- Carry small bills: Cash is king, and small denominations (especially U.S. dollars) are useful for tuk-tuks, markets, and tips.
- U.S. dollars are widely accepted: Cambodia uses both U.S. dollars and the local riel — expect change in riel for small amounts.
- Respect cultural customs: Always remove shoes before entering temples and homes. Dress modestly, especially around religious sites.
- Stay hydrated, but avoid tap water: Drink bottled or filtered water. Ice is usually safe in cities, but be cautious in rural areas.
- Tuk-tuks are the main transport: Negotiate the fare before your ride or use ride-hailing apps like Grab.
- Beware of scams: Be cautious with overly friendly strangers or “official” tour guides at tourist spots.
- Visit Angkor Wat early: Arrive at sunrise to beat the heat and crowds. Wear breathable clothes — it gets very hot by midday.
- Temple etiquette matters: Never touch or point your feet at Buddha statues, and avoid loud conversation inside temples.
- Local SIM cards are cheap and useful: You can buy one at the airport or local shops — data coverage is generally good.
- Tipping is appreciated but not required: Small tips in restaurants or for drivers and guides are a nice gesture.
- Avoid political discussions: It’s a sensitive subject; best to steer clear in casual conversations.
- Mosquito repellent is essential: Especially in the evenings and rural areas to prevent bites and mosquito-borne diseases.
🇰🇭 Cambodia Menu
- Fish Amok (Siem Reap): A creamy, steamed curry made with fish, coconut milk, lemongrass, and spices — often served in a banana leaf bowl.
- Beef Lok Lak (Phnom Penh): Stir-fried marinated beef served with rice, fried egg, and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
- Nom Banh Chok (Countryside regions): A popular breakfast noodle dish with rice noodles, green fish curry, and lots of fresh herbs.
- Bai Sach Chrouk (Street food across the country): Grilled marinated pork served over broken rice with pickled vegetables and sometimes an egg.
- Khmer Red Curry (Central Cambodia): A milder curry made with beef, chicken, or fish, coconut milk, sweet potatoes, and lemongrass — typically served with bread, not rice.
- Prahok Ktis (Rural Cambodia): A pungent fermented fish dip cooked with pork and coconut milk, eaten with fresh vegetables.
- Samlor Machu Trey (Tonle Sap region): A sour fish soup made with tamarind, pineapple, tomatoes, and herbs — light and refreshing.
- Kuy Teav (Phnom Penh): A pork and rice noodle soup often eaten for breakfast, flavored with garlic oil, herbs, and lime.
- Ang Dtray-Meuk (Coastal regions): Grilled squid on skewers, often marinated in lime juice and Kampot pepper — sold at seaside stalls.
- Cha Kroeung (Nationwide): Stir-fried meat (often beef or chicken) with a fragrant kroeung spice paste made from lemongrass, turmeric, galangal, and garlic.
- Num Pang (Phnom Penh): Cambodian-style baguette sandwich filled with grilled meat, pickled vegetables, and chili mayo — similar to Vietnamese bánh mì.
- Kralan (Northwestern Cambodia): Sticky rice mixed with coconut milk and beans, roasted inside bamboo tubes — a traditional travel snack.
- Fried Tarantulas (Skuon): A famous (and daring) Cambodian delicacy — crispy on the outside, soft in the center.
- Palm Sugar Sweets (Kampong Speu): Traditional Khmer sweets made with coconut, palm sugar, and sticky rice — usually wrapped in banana leaves.
📅 Cambodia Calendar
- Meak Bochea Day (February, Nationwide): Buddhist holiday honoring the Buddha’s teachings with temple ceremonies
- Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) (April 13–16, Nationwide): Nationwide water fights, dancing, and family celebrations
- Royal Ploughing Ceremony (May, Phnom Penh): Ancient ritual to bless the upcoming harvest, attended by royalty
- Visak Bochea Day (May, Nationwide): Celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha
- Pchum Ben (Ancestors’ Day) (September–October, Nationwide): Families honor the spirits of their ancestors at temples
- Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) (November, Phnom Penh & riverside cities): Boat races and moonlight celebrations on the Mekong
- Independence Day (November 9, Nationwide): Military parades and fireworks in Phnom Penh
- Angkor International Half Marathon (December, Angkor Wat): Run past ancient temples for a good cause
- Angkor Festival (December, Siem Reap): Traditional dance, music, and cultural shows at the temples
- Sea Festival (December, rotating southern cities): Celebrate Cambodia’s coastline with parades, food, and music
- New Year’s Eve (December 31, Nationwide): Fireworks and riverside countdowns