Great Cambodia Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?
Cambodia is more than just a country for backpackers traveling on a budget. It is an interesting travel destination that everyone should add to their bucket list. With its rich culture, impressive remnants of ancient temples and monuments as well as untouched natural beauty, the country truly deserves to be called the ‘kingdom of wonder’. Be it the magnificent Angkor Wat, the pristine beaches of Koh Rong Samloem, or the sobering killing fields of Phnom Penh, the country is jam-packed with highlights worth exploring. Add to all this the warm hospitality of its people and your Cambodia itinerary is sure to be a trip of a lifetime. Keep scrolling down if you are working on a Cambodia itinerary for yourself.
- Selena Skiba
- From Australia
How much time should I spend in Cambodia?
How long you should stay in Cambodia depends on how shallow or deep you want to get to know the country. Five days are enough if you only plan to see the highlights of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. However, we recommend that you extend your stay in the country with a 14-day trip if you can, as this will allow for a more holistic travel experience. In two weeks you can really get under the surface and explore Cambodia in all of its mystical charms.
Most travelers plan a five-day Cambodia itinerary as part of a longer trip across Southeast Asia. While you can barely scratch the surface of Cambodia in five days or less, this duration should allow you to visit most of the highlights of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Go big on your first two days and explore the world-famous Angkor Wat complex. Composed of dazzling temples, incredible hydraulic structures, and historic monuments, this UNESCO World Heritage site is considered one of the pinnacles of the ancient world.
Next, head out to explore the bustling streets of Phnom Penh. Once the center of the mighty Khmer Empire, Phnom Penh is home to many of Cambodia’s architectural and historical gems. Among the sites that you should visit is the National Museum of Cambodia, Silver Pagoda, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. While in the capital, do not forget to sample authentic Khmer food at roadside eateries.
Cambodia in 1 week
With an additional two days to spend, you can add Kampot or Sihanoukville to your five-week Cambodia itinerary. An idyllic and quiet town in southern Cambodia, Kampot’s slow life is part of its unique charm, and the best way to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Kampot is through cycling. Spend a day or two pedaling through its lush green paddy fields, pepper farms, peaceful riverside, and a not-so-secret lake.
If beaches are what you prefer, then a trip to Sihanoukville is a must. Home to some of the most unspoiled beaches in Southeast Asia, this town offers pure tropical bliss with its crystal clear waters and fine white sand beaches. Stay in the center of Sihanoukville if you want to unwind during the day and party it up at night. Otherwise, we would recommend hopping to the nearby islands of Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem if you prefer to lounge around in seaside quietude.
Two weeks is the ideal length of stay in Cambodia. With 14 days to spend, you can take an in-depth trip of the country and explore its architecture, culture, history, nature, and cuisine. Jumpstart your ultimate 14-day Cambodia itinerary with two days in Phnom Penh and discover the city’s historic and cultural landmarks. While a trip to Phnom Penh is often a mournful experience because of its tragic past, this city remains an important relic of history and is worth a visit to understand the country and its people.
Soak up the countryside of Battambang next. A laid-back town where you can experience Cambodia’s rural life, Battambang is the perfect stop before you head for the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap. Spare at least two days to fully delve into the breathtaking Angkor Wat, then explore the villages of Kratie and Kampong Cham that are located along the Mekong River.
Cambodia in 3 weeks
Consider yourself lucky if you can spare three weeks in Cambodia. With a trip of this length, you can add a few more highlights to your Cambodian adventure or spend your time in the places you enjoy the most. Make a few tweaks and additions to the above two-week Cambodia itinerary and extend it by a week. We recommend adding Kep to your list. A quaint coastal town known for quiet beaches, Kep is also a paradise for seafood lovers.
Island-hopping in south Cambodia is also a great way to spend a few extra days. Whether you are looking for relaxation, diving, partying, or simply nature-watching, Song Saa will cater to your taste. Visit this island for a luxurious experience and indulge your mind and body in a grand wellness retreat. Then explore Cambodia’s marine life with a diving trip off Koh Tang.
Planning a trip to Cambodia?
Get in touch with one of our travel experts in Cambodia for a customized trip. If you would like to book a package trip or join a group, check out our tours in Cambodia.
