cambodia travel itinerary 3 weeks

A Cambodia Itinerary: 3 Weeks in Cambodia

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Cambodia is a complicated country where we encountered very high highs and very low lows. Our experience in Cambodia was challenging, beautiful, and overall very worthwhile.

In this travel guide I will take you step by step through a recommended Cambodia itinerary for 3 weeks in Cambodia. I will also give some alternatives in case you only have two weeks in Cambodia (or less). I’ll cover the BEST places to visit in Cambodia that you don’t want to miss!

The Best Transportation in Cambodia- Plane, Bus, or Van?

Public transportation in Cambodia is very hit or miss, and some of the worst moments of our trip occurred on Cambodian public transport!

Luckily, we lived to tell the tale, and we can help you avoid the same tricky situations we found ourselves in. Follow our advice and reach your Cambodia destinations in comfort!

VIP Vans, Minivans, Minibuses

For us, the most important piece of Cambodia travel advice is never take a minivan or minibus anywhere in Cambodia. The minivan drivers in Cambodia drive so crazy that they make their Laotian and Thai counterparts look like drivers-ed instructors.

Seriously, if you think I’m exaggerating go read some TripAdvisor reviews of Cambodian van companies. You will find stories of the van hitting people and then continuing to drive like nothing happened. I wouldn’t believe these accounts if I hadn’t experienced first hand the horror of Cambodian minivan rides, and unfortunately we took a few of them in our 30 days of travel there.

For example, in our 8 hour ride from Banlung to Siem Reap we were packed into a small 12 seater van with 14 people . The roads in Cambodia are rough, and the driver hit bumps in the road so hard that the van caught air, causing the driver to then lose control and fishtail…multiple times. When people in the van began vomiting from the crazy driving the driver refused to pull over, and instead simply passed plastic bags back to the passengers.

Learn from our mistakes, DO NOT take a minivan in Cambodia!

Luckily there are plenty of non-minivan transportation options in Cambodia. Our favorite is with a company called Giant Ibis. They run big, luxury buses between all the major Cambodian hubs.   You can use Giant Ibis to get between nearly all of the cities we list in this itinerary, and we highly recommend it!

In the photo above you can see the giant seat you get on Giant Ibis, and you can tell by my smile how happy I am to be comfortable!

For the cities where Giant Ibis does not run, I recommend using an alternative big bus company so you can avoid minivan travel.

Expect to pay $15 or less for a one way bus ride between Cambodian cities with Giant Ibis.

We did not travel by air in Cambodia because it was quite a bit more expensive than bus travel. However, if we had it to do over we would certainly spring for plane tickets rather than enduring a long van ride.

Also, keep in mind that if you are on a Cambodia vacation or holiday, flights are likely the most comfortable way to travel!

Flight prices between Cambodian cities are very affordable if you plan ahead. The ones we’ve seen cost $35 to $60 for a one-way flight.

If you plan to travel by plane in Southeast Asia, it will be MUCH easier if you don’t have to check luggage! Read about how we fit everything for 6 months of travel into just a carry on !

3 Weeks in Cambodia

If you have three weeks in Cambodia, that is a perfect amount of time to get a solid feel for the country!

Day 1-9 Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the national treasure of Cambodia, and for very good reason. This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world!

I’ve seen many Cambodian itineraries that only allow for 1 or 3 days at the Angkor complex, and that is just NOT enough time to experience this incredible place. With 9 days in Siem Reap you can purchase the 7-day Angkor pass (which is a steal compared to the shorter passes), and enjoy everything that Siem Reap has to offer on your rest days from the temple.

Aside from Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is loaded with great restaurants, a fun nightlife area, and plenty of spas and massage parlors. Siem Reap is the most popular Cambodia tourist spot, so take advantage of all the amenities you’ll find there!

Click here for our guide to visiting Angkor Wat while avoiding the crowds!

Where to stay in Siem Reap

I highly recommend the Bokre Angkor Hostel! Don’t be fooled by the name, this does not resemble any hostel we’ve ever seen (though they do offer a dorm room for solo budget travelers). This hotel was one of our favorites in all of Southeast Asia!

The staff was so kind, and happy to help us with any questions we had. There’s a beautiful little pool, a bar, a restaurant, and even room service! All of this for less than $20/night!

Check availability for Bokre Angkor Hostel here!

Day 9-12 Battambang and the Bat Caves of Battambang

At first we weren’t sure if we would visit Battambang. I had read mixed reviews of this small city and wasn’t sure what to expect, but I’m so glad we decided to visit as we experienced one of our favorite wildlife experiences of all time in Battambang!

Bat Caves of Battambang

At sunset every night millions (yes, you read that right- millions ) of bats emerge from a giant cave on the outskirts of Battambang. For 30-40 minutes the sky is absolutely filled with bats emerging from the cave to go on their nightly hunt for mosquitos to eat.

This was one of the coolest wildlife experiences we’ve ever had as there was just no way to imagine the sheer number of bats we would see flying overhead.

To reach the caves ask your hotel to schedule a tuk tuk driver to take you. The bats emerge around 5:30pm so you will want to be there by 4:30pm to get a seat near the entrance of the cave.

NOTE: The seats are all placed out by food cart owners, and you need to buy something from them in order to use the seats. Don’t be the rude tourist who refuses to purchase a $1 beer or coconut; consider how much that $1 purchase means to the vendor!

Phare Circus

This is a must-do activity in Battambang!

Phare Pnleu Selpak is an organization that runs a performance and creative arts primary school for Cambodian students.

Every night the students perform an incredible circus show under an old fashioned big-top tent in Battambang. The show is extremely entertaining with many very talented performers. On top of that your ticket purchase helps support this fantastic program!

Battambang Railroad

This is a very touristy attraction, but we really enjoyed it! Made famous by Anthony Bourdain on his Cambodia episode, the Battambang railroad used to be a way that farmers transported goods across the countryside.

Flat, open cars that are basically just a big piece of flat wood on wheels are propelled down railroad tracks by small gas motors. They go fast, and it’s a very bumpy, but fun, ride!

Nowadays the railway is not in use except to give tourists a short ride to a nearby village that seems to make all of its money touting souvenirs to the railroad visitors.

I’m not usually a fan of tourist traps like this, but at the end of the railway Tom and I had a lovely conversation with the Cambodian woman who sold us two fresh coconuts. She told us about her  life in Cambodia, and that she was very proud of her daughter who was attending an English speaking school.

If you take the Battambang railroad, her stall is the very last one to the left of the tracks!

To get to the Battambang Railroad you can hire a tuk tuk. We did this in combination with visiting the bats later in the day.

Food in Battambang

Incredibly, we ate the best Japanese food we’ve ever had at a Japanese grill in Battambang! When you are in Battambang you must eat at Chhnganh Japanese Kitchen. It is walking distance from all the major hotels, and the chicken katsu is to die for!

Where to Stay in Battambang

We weren’t crazy about the hotel we chose in Battambang, and definitely wished we had chosen a hotel with a pool. Battambang is HOT year round, and all of the activities we did were outside, so having a pool to cool off in would have made the visit far more comfortable.

Check availability here for hotels in Battambang!

How to Get to Battamnang

To reach Battambang take the Mekong Express luxury bus from Siem Reap. The trip is about 3 hours, and Mekong Express buses are comfortable.

Day 12-14 Phnom Penh

To be honest, we didn’t love Phnom Penh. It is very crowded, loud, and dirty. It is a difficult city for walking because there are no sidewalks, and the traffic is insane. Another thing that surprised us about Phnom Penh is how expensive it is! Hotels were more expensive than just about anywhere else we’d visited in Southeast Asia.

With that said, there is one must-visit site in Phnom Penh, and that is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum .

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Cambodia has a very dark modern history, and I recommend you take the time to read about the Khmer Rouge and the Cambodian holocaust before you visit the country.

I read Survival in the Killing Fields by Haing Ngor , and I highly recommend it.

Or, if you’d prefer, there are plenty of excellent podcasts that detail the history of the Khmer Rouge, simply search the term Khmer Rouge in your podcast app.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is an extremely difficult place to visit- it was once an internment camp where Cambodians were detained, tortured, and killed. The cells inside the buildings are still covered in blood stains, and many of the torture devices are on display, along with photos of the victims’ bodies.

While visiting Tuol Sleng is a difficult experience, I also feel it is an important one. Visiting this site will help you understand Cambodian history, and how modern Cambodian culture came to be.

Be sure to pay for the audio guide as the visual displays are not accompanied with explanations, and the audio guide is very complete.

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

Since hotels were so pricey, we first ended up in a really uncomfortable, grimy hotel room. After a couple nights we decided to bite the bullet and pay more than we’d like for a better hotel. It was worth it.

When visiting Phnom Penh plan to budget a LOT more money than you do for the rest of Cambodia. For a very average hotel expect to pay at least $25/night.

There are relatively cheap tuk tuks everywhere that will happily give you a ride- just be sure to agree on a price before you get in! The Grab app is also very active in Phnom Penh, and we found the tuk tuk prices to be the best through the app.

How to Get to Phnom Penh

Giant Ibis does not run from Battambang to Phnom Penh, but Mekong Express does run one bus per day between the two cities. Book this bus in advance because it fills up fast, and it is the only big bus that will take you from Battambang to Phnom Penh during the day!

Alternatively, if you would like to give it a try, there is a night bus with full beds inside that runs from Battambang to Phnom Penh. A couple friends of ours had a good experience with the night bus, so it may be a good option.

Click here to schedule your bus from Battambang to Phnom Penh!

Day 14-19 Kampot

Kampot is an interesting little Cambodian town that is famous for its world renowned pepper! Kampot is a great place to relax, eat delicious food, and experience some beautiful Cambodian countryside. Kampot is also home to our very favorite hotel in all of Southeast Asia!

Kampot Pepper Farm

Pepper Plantations in Kampot are known throughout the world for harvesting the very best pepper. You can tour a pepper plantation to see how the pepper is grown, and take part in a tasting to see which pepper is your favorite!

Kampot pepper makes an awesome gift for any friends who love to cook, and it really does taste different than any other pepper we’ve eaten!

Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple

Another awesome place to add to your Kampot itinerary is the Phnom Chhngok Cave Temple, which is a huge cavernous cave with a temple inside. To reach this site you will need to take a long tuk tuk ride over very bumpy roads, or you can join a day tour in a bus.

The tuk tuk was a better option for us because we got a great look at the Cambodian countryside, and when we reached the cave it was just the two of us visiting.

When you reach the cave, teenagers will ask you if you would like a private tour for $5. Usually we don’t buy things from children because they should be in school. However, in this case a local told us that in the Kampot countryside children go to school in the evenings so they can help their parents with farming and running their shops.

Our young tour guide was great, and took us through a secret passage in the cave that we never could have found on our own!

Where to Stay in Kampot

This is the easiest question for us! Our favorite accommodation in all of Southeast Asia was in Kampot.

Daom Djah Spirit was everything we could ask for in Southeast Asia lodging. This beautiful property has individual bungalows and treehouses situated along a small canal. The rooms are beautifully appointed and completely open-air with high quality mosquito nets around the beds.

Everything at this resort is off grid and sustainable. No plastic straws or water bottles, instead there is a water refill station. Composting toilets are located throughout the property and are kept spotlessly clean.

We spent hours swinging in the hammock on our lovely porch, and when we got hungry we ordered delicious food from the resort’s small restaurant and bar.

Daom Djah Spirit also has weekly events with music and campfires, and the owners are kind, laid-back people. We absolutely loved this place!

Click here to check availability at Daom Djah Spirit!

Day 20-21 Phnomh Penh

You will need to return to Phnom Penh to get transport out of Cambodia. Giant Ibis runs buses from Phnom Penh into Vietnam, or you can fly anywhere from the international airport in Phnom Penh.

In your final days in Phnom Penh be sure to visit the Russian Market for excellent souvenir shopping!

2 Weeks in Cambodia Itinerary

If you only have 2 weeks in Cambodia don’t despair! It’s definitely doable, and you can still see plenty of amazing things! With 2 weeks in Cambodia I would recommend you focus on the northern cities of Siem Reap and Battambang only.

Day 1-10 Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, and the remote Angkor Temple of Banteay Srei

In addition to the Siem Reap activities I described in the 3 week itinerary, take a day trip out of Siem Reap to visit the remote Angkor temple of Banteay Srei.

Most people never make it to this temple, which makes it a very special place to visit.

Also, take time to do some souvenir shopping in the many markets of Siem Reap!

Day 11-13 Battambang

Refer to the Battambang section of the 3 week itinerary.

Day 13-14 Siem Reap

You will need to return to Siem Reap for transportation out of Cambodia.

Giant Ibis runs bus service to Thailand or Vietnam from Siem Reap. Or you can fly anywhere from the international airport.

1 week in Cambodia

If you have only one week in Cambodia I HIGHLY recommend you spend it at the Angkor Archaeological park in Siem Reap. Exploring Angkor Wat is a once in a lifetime experience that totally blew my mind!

Travel Tips for Cambodia

No matter what you read, don’t expect to swim in anything but a swimming pool in Cambodia. The rivers, lakes, and even the seashore are terribly polluted and filled with garbage. Several times we thought that we would have a chance to swim, only to arrive at the water and realize swimming was a very bad idea.

Cambodia’s population is booming, and tourism has drastically increased in the past few years so it’s possible that even a few years ago the natural waters were cleaner than they are now. Take it from me, if you want to swim you will need to splurge on a hotel with a pool.

The only exception to this may be the Cambodian islands, which we did not visit due to the high cost of transport to, and accommodation on, the islands. However, we met travelers who said that even on the islands there is trash all over the beaches so plan accordingly.

For further reading on Cambodia, check out Lonely Planet’s Cambodia guide . We regularly used this guide to help us plan our Cambodia travel.

Are you planning a trip to Southeast Asia? Check out our Southeast Asia itinerary to help you plan your travels!

Check out our guides to Laos and Vietnam !

We’ve been traveling full time for the past 3 years, and for 2 of those years we traveled all over North America in a camper! Read about our camper life here !

Every summer we hop from festival to festival in the Western United States, and we never miss Burning Man! Read about our festival travels here !

Looking for the very best quality travel gear? Head to our FAVORITE store, REI , to find everything you need for your next adventure!

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Cambodia: The perfect Itinerary for 3 Weeks with all of the Highlights

Are you on the search for a itinerary through Cambodia? In our blog, we tell you which places we visited and the hotels we stayed in.

The most important sights to see in Cambodia and also one of the biggest attractions in the whole of Asia are the world-famous Temples of Angkor. They are the main reason most travelers want to visit Cambodia. However, alongside Cambodia’s city of temples, are many more beautiful and authentic places to discover.

What other stops are worth seeing in Cambodia? Which destinations along the itinerary are better left out? What does the ideal route look like? We’ve packed all of our tips into this blog article so you can plan out your perfect travel itinerary through Cambodia.

1. Travel itinerary through Cambodia: All stops, info & hotel tips

2. map: an overview of our cambodia travel itinerary, 3. more travel tips for cambodia: transport & co, 4. our conclusions about cambodia, siem reap / angkor temples.

Most people start their itinerary through Cambodia directly in Siem Reap to marvel at the world-famous temples of Angkor. The gigantic temples are without a doubt the number one highlight of Cambodia. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and national treasure. Siem Reap is perfectly connected with the international airport. However, you could also enter from another country, such as Thailand , like we did.

For many, Siem Reap remains the one and only destination in Cambodia. That’s a real shame! We stayed in Siem Reap for four nights. We wanted to take our time exploring the temples, but most of all we also wanted to have time to take a look beyond of the facade of luxury hotels. For example, we visited a school in Siem Reap and did a lot of cycling. Angkor Wat is breathtaking – without a doubt. However, there is much more to Siem Reap than just Angkor Wat.

Our accommodation tip for Siem Reap

The Eightfold Urban Resort is a gorgeous hotel with a pool, away from the hustle and bustle.

You can book the hotel here: Eightfold Urban Resort

Battambang is most well-known for the bamboo train. The original bamboo train was intended for a trade route. It has been rebuilt elsewhere in the meantime and is purely a tourist attraction – what a shame! The trip is still fun though. You rush along at an adventurous speed and watch the landscape go by. As soon as there is oncoming traffic, one of the wagons has to be dismantled and then reassembled.

Battambang itself is the second biggest city in Cambodia, after Phnom Penh. Even though it is very loud and chaotic along some of the streets, the region around Battambang is very original and definitely worth a visit. If you have time, we whole-heartedly recommend a bike tour with Soksabike. Our young guide was very knowledgeable and brought us to visit a few local families.

We recommend you stay two or three nights in Battambang. You can find more information about Battambang in our blog article: Tips for Battambang

Our accommodation tip for Battambang

The Maisons Wat Kor is a wonderful retreat! The authentic hotel is located in a large garden. The only downside: the hotel is about 10 minutes’ drive with a tuktuk outside of the city centre, however located closer to the bamboo trains

You can book the hotel here: Maisons Wat Kor

Anyone who plunges from the serenity of Battambangs into the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital, Phnom Penh, may find it difficult to gain value from this city. Don’t give up! While in Phnom Penh, you will constantly be confronted with the history of Cambodia and learn a lot about the country.

The gruesome past of the Red Khmer and the genocide that occurred in Cambodia are nowhere more present than at the Killing Fields (Choeung Ek) and the Tuol Sleng Museum. We don’t know anyone who wasn’t completely stunned after visiting these who memorials. The royal palace and silver pagoda are also well worth a visit. Ultimately – as chaotic as it is, Phnom Penh is a valuable experience.

We would plan to stay at least three nights in Phnom Penh on your Cambodia Itinerary. There are more tips for Phnom Penh to be found in our blog article: Highlights of Phnom Penh

Our accommodation tip for Phnom Penh

The Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort is a very stylish hotel with a great rooftop terrace. The rooftop pool is a highlight with views over Phnom Penh.

You can book the hotel here: Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort

The journey continues along further from Phnom Penh to Kep, a small town on the coast of Cambodia. You will come across a lot of locals in Kep and hardly any tourists. Kep itself is not so beautiful but it’s a wonderful place to eat delicious fish with fresh Kampot pepper on the beach at sunset.

Kep was one of the most important seaside towns in Cambodia before the civil war. You shouldn’t expect a picture-perfect beach in Kep but theoretically you could spend a beach day here. We would recommend you head over to the nearby island of Koh Tonsay instead, which you can reach in around 30 minutes by boat.

Kep is most famous for its crab market, located in the town centre. There are several restaurants right beside the crab market where you can eat fresh fish dishes while enjoying a view of the sea. Kep is the right place to be for anyone who likes to experience the life of the locals.

We think spending two or three nights is ideal. It is possible to visit Kep ‘just’ as a day trip from Kampot – more about this soon. You can find our detailed blog here: Tips for Kampot and Kep

Our accommodation tips for Kep

The Le Logis de Kep is a small oasis with individual bungalows and a pool. The hotel is not located directly on the beach, however the tranquil atmosphere is amazing.

You can book the hotel here: Le Logis de Kep

The small city of Kampot amazed us right from the start and is a must on our Cambodia itinerary. This is probably because of the charming colonial houses that are dotted around the city. Cambodia was under French colonial rule for almost one hundred years. You can find some architectural remnants in Kampot from that era. Most of the buildings are very run down, but that doesn’t detract from the town’s charm.

Kampot itself does not have any of the classic sights. The flair and the relaxing atmosphere is more what makes this city so special. We absolutely recommend hiring a bike to explore the area. For example, you can reach the famous pepper plantations by bike: Kampot pepper is one of the best in the world. Our tip: Our favourite place to be at sunset was the terrace of the restaurant called Rikitikitavi with a view of the river.

We recommend staying three nights in Kampot. You can find more recommendations for Kampot in our blog article: Tips for Kampot and Kep

Our accommodation tips for Kampot

The Columns is a very tasteful colonial style hotel in the city centre with spacious rooms and a brilliant breakfast.

You can book the hotel here: The Columns

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is the last stop on our Cambodia itinerary. It is the most well-known beach destination in Cambodia. The centre of Sihanoukville is one big party area that really did not speak to our tastes. To really enjoy Sihanoukville you should find yourself a peaceful stretch of beach and skip the souvenir shops.

We spent our time on Otres Beach – Sihanoukville is much better there than its reputation. Still, we didn’t feel so at home in Sihanoukville. Next time we would choose to go to Koh Rong to enjoy a few beach days.

Our accommodation tips for Sihanoukville

The Spayhiti is located at Ochheuteal Beach. The owners are very friendly and helpful and the breakfast is great.

You can book the hotel here: Spayhiti

We’ve marked out our Cambodia travel itinerary on this map so you can get a better overview of the travel route . Cambodia is more of a small country. Even though the travel distances are luckily within reason, you have to take into account the road conditions, which are not the best. Therefore, you need longer for most trips than you’d think.

Some short examples: It takes around 3 or 4 hours to reach Battambang from Siem Reap on the bus. It is around 5 to 6 hours from Battambang to Phnom Penh. From Phnom Penh to Kep is around 3.5 to 4 hours. We will let you know more info about Cambodia’s transport in the next chapter.

Transport: Getting from A to B in Cambodia

In Cambodia, it is most common to get around by bus. All of the most relevant tourist destinations have bus connections. The levels of comfort can vary: There are modern buses with air conditioning and also very old, rickety buses.

The more touristy the city or travel destination, the more options there are, and usually the buses are more modern. Mostly, we travelled around in large buses. But sometimes there are also minibuses. 

The price to take the bus in Cambodia is very cheap. To give a rough guide: A ticket for Battambang to Phnom Penh (approx. 6 to 7 hours) costs around 8 to 10 US dollars.

Personally, we wouldn’t fully rely on the specified travel time. Usually it does take about that long, but bus journeys sometimes take longer due to the road conditions. Breakdowns can also occur. During one of our bus trips the passengers had to get out and push the huge bus so that the engine would start again.

You can usually purchase bus tickets from place to place to reach your next destination without a problem. For example, often we booked the bus ticket the day before through our accommodation – that worked really well. In case you prefer to purchase your tickets in advance, you can do this through 12go.asia .

You can book your tickets here: 12go.asia

Travel guides for Cambodia

When it comes to South East Asia, we highly recommend using the guide by Lonely Planet for your itinerary, which is very well researched. The new edition about Cambodia was published in September 2023. You can’t go wrong with this travel guide and will be well prepared.

You can purchase the travel guide here: Lonely Planet Cambodia Travel Guide (September 2023 edition)

The best time to travel in Cambodia

The dry season is the most popular time to travel to Cambodia: The temperatures are pleasant between November and March and there is comparatively less rainfall. After March it is noticeably hotter, and the so-called hot dry season starts. In April, it’s possible for the thermometer to reach up to 40 degrees – sightseeing is quite exhausting at this time due to the high temperatures.

Important to know: There is a high influx of tourists during the Christmas and New Year period. Personally, we would not recommend visiting at this time – not least because the hotel prices tend to rise.

The rainy season begins from May/June and reaches its high point in October. Rainy season means that you need to expect more rain showers. The climate is relatively unpredictable : often it can be sunny the whole day before a heavy downpour in the afternoon. But there can also be longer showers lasting the entire day. Generally, you have to take into account that you might need to postpone some plans during the rainy season due to rainfall .

Getting to Cambodia

Option 1: travel by plane to siem reap or phnom penh.

The most comfortable travel option is to arrive via airplane. The two largest airports are located in the capital, Phnom Penh, or in Siem Reap. Both airports have connections to international destinations, including primarily destinations South East Asia or Asia (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Hongkong etc.). There are no direct flights from Europe to Cambodia.

We would probably organise transport from the airport through the accommodation. In case this isn’t possible or is far too expensive, you can find taxis at both airports to take you to your hotel.

Option 2: Over land from Bangkok or Koh Chang to Siem Reap

The slightly more adventurous option is to make your own way into Cambodia over land . We did this over the Thailand-Cambodia border in Aranyaprathet/Poipet. Caution: you need to be really careful, especially just before the border, not to get ripped off.

First stage: Getting to Aranyaprathet (Thailand)

First you need to make your way to Aranyaprathet, the last large town in Thailand, located around 6km away from the Cambodian border: Numerous buses go to Aranyaprathet every day (duration approx. 4 to 5 hours from Bangkok , approx. 200 baht). Alternatively, you could also take the train: The train leaves twice daily from the Hualamphong Train Station in Bangkok to Aranyaprathet (duration approx. 5 hours, approx. 50 baht).

We ourselves travelled from Koh Chang to Cambodia. We planned out the trip from Koh Chang to Siem Reap as follows: 7:30am shared taxi to the ferry (60 baht per person) – 8:30am ferry(80 baht per person) – 9:30am shared taxi to the Trat bus station (60 baht per person) – 3:30pm bus to Aranyaprathet (40 baht per person).

Second stage: Border crossing to Poipet (Cambodia)

Now comes the more tedious part, crossing the border. You make your way from Aranyaprathet to the border (distance: approx. 6km) and the risk of falling into the hands of fraudsters on this stretch is relatively high – we are speaking from our own experiences. 

It’s best to take a tuk-tuk (80 baht) or travel with a shared taxi. Important: if someone tries to take you to a small hut or something similar (“Cambodian Consulate”) before you reach the border, then politely but firmly say that you already have a visa. The reason: They will try to talk you into buying an overpriced visa for Cambodia.

You get your visa for Cambodia after (!) you have left Thailand. It is easy to get your visa on arrival for a fee of 30 US dollars. You should also have a passport photo with you – if not, it will cost extra. When we crossed the border for the second time, we encountered a ‘nice’ border official who only gave us our passport back after we gave him a small bribe of 100 baht. So you see: you should be prepared for all situations.

Third stage: From Poipet to Siem Reap

After you have arrived in Cambodia you ‘just’ need to make your way to Siem Reap. You should decline the transport options offered to you directly after you cross the border. This is also a fraudster zone. The best thing is to walk further along the street. A taxi to Siem Reap should cost around 30 US dollars (takes around 2.5 hours).

You can also take a bus from Poipet to Siem Reap. However, the bus costs around 9 US dollars per person, therefore it’s not really a cheap alternative to taking a taxi. Apparently, there are cheaper daily connections to Siem Reap (5 US dollars) but they depart at 8 o’clock in the morning.

Visa for Cambodia

You will need a visa to enter. The tourist visa allows you to stay 30 days in Cambodia, although you are able to extend it one time for a further 30 days. It is only possible to extend it from in Phnom Penh.

The visa currently costs 30 US dollars (as of November 2023). There are three possibilities for getting your visa:

• Visa on arrival (i.e. directly upon entry at the airport or over land)
• E-visa (plus a processing fee of 6 US dollars)
• Embassy (e.g. in Berlin)

Our personal opinion is that it is easiest (and cheapest) to get your visa upon entry. This is especially so when you are arriving by plane. There is a larger risk of being ripped off by fraudsters when arriving over land. But getting a visa yourself once you arrive is not a problem.

To get a visa on arrival you just fill out a form, provide your passport photo and passport and then you will receive your visa a short while later, attached inside your passport.

Important: You should therefore have a passport photo with you. You will need one of these for all of the three ways to get your visa. Your passport also needs to be valid for at least three more months.

Cambodia blew us away: In a positive way as well as a negative way. Cambodia’s history is unbelievable. Words cannot describe the horrific things that occurred under the rule of the Khmer Rouge. Our time in Phnom Penh in particular really gave us food for thought in this regard.

A trip to Cambodia is an adventure, not a relaxing holiday – that is for certain. Anyone planning a trip around Cambodia should have the urge to experience something. And we promise: you will experience a lot there!

Cambodia is unbelievably authentic. The people are what give the country its special charm. Yes, Cambodia inspired us and made us think. Therefore, we can’t help but advise you: Go there! Visit this country! You won’t regret it.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you already been to this fascinating country and have some more tips for traveling through Cambodia? We look forward to your comments about your experiences!

You might also be interested in this

Phnom Penh Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do and See

Kampot & Kep (Cambodia): The Best Places & Top Things to Do

Battambang Travel Guide: The Bamboo Train & Best Things to Do

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My 3-week Cambodia itinerary | Uncover the absolute best of Cambodia

When people talk about Cambodia they probably instantly name up Angkor Wat. All tough visiting the temples of Angkor should be on the top of your list when travelling to Cambodia, there is so much more to explore in this authentic country.

We loved the diversity that it brings, name it and Cambodia will deliver. Jungle, beaches, culture, temples, islands to relax or party and lovely countryside. In 18 days we managed to enjoy all those lovely things.

In this guide, we hope to help you enjoy authentic Cambodia just as we did.

If you choose to use any of the links on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these links, you’ll have a direct impact on WTSW and support my ability to continue to create free insightful travel content for you. If you find any of my tips useful, you can support me by buying me a virtual coffee  here .

Where to start?

When planning your Cambodia itinerary, it’s good to know where you wanna start.

Our adventures through Cambodia started off in Siem Reap. In our case, a ticket to Bangkok was way cheaper than a flight directly to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. So we choose to have a 2-day city trip in Bangkok before heading to Siem Reap with AirAsia . To see how we spent our 48 hours in Bangkok click here . In this Cambodia itinerary, we show you which places we visited and tell you all about our favourite sites.

BTW don’t forget to bring some dollars, when entering Cambodia you have to pay $20 for a 30-day visa. Also, keep in mind that you need some extra passport photographs for your visa and Angkor pass.

Travelling through Cambodia by public transport

Going from place to place in Cambodia is best done by bus. We used  Camboticket to get our tickets for the bus, ferry or taxi. With the code CTAPP, you can get 10% off when booking tickets with their app. Another easy option is that you can get your tickets at almost any hotel or hostel. If that isn’t the case try visiting a Mekong Express office nearby or book online.

It can happen that they sell too many tickets and if that’s the case the bus can be really packed. Also, keep in mind that your bus driver usually tries to drop you off at the edge of the city centre, it looks like they are working together with the tuk-tuk drivers. They usually drop you at a place where you pay way too much for short-distance tuk-tuk rides. We used an app called Maps.me to pin a marker at the place where the bus driver should have dropped us. So when they were planning to drop us at the wrong place, we could show them the bus station. This app is a perfect offline alternative to Google Maps.

For short distances in the cities or just outside of them, a tuk-tuk is perfect. The price can vary between $1 to $3, never pay more. And don’t get fooled by the trick that the price is per person instead of per tuk-tuk. And always try to get a deal, it’s really common to do this in Cambodia.

Accommodation | Where to stay in Cambodia

When travelling through Cambodia there are enough options to get accommodation. We booked our accommodation one day in advance and that worked out pretty well. It gives you a lot of freedom and opportunities to change your itinerary. We always use booking.com and if you use this link you get a $15 discount. In some cases, you can even cancel your booking, if done on time, without being charged.

My 3-week Cambodia itinerary | Day-to-day overview

Day 1 – 4 | siem reap, the gateway to angkor wat.

When travellers talk about Siem Reap they see it as a starting point to visit the world’s largest religious monument named Angkor Wat. If you are thinking about visiting Angkor and we know you do! You can have a look at our Temple running guide below. Besides the temples of Angkor, Siem Reap is a place rich in culture and history. It’s easy to spend 3 to 4 days here, including your visit to the temples. Enjoy the many lovely restaurants, and the exciting nightlife and have a visit to the night market. If you take Siem Reap as a home base you can take a trip to, Phnom Kulen also known as the ‘‘Mountain of Lychees’’. It’s one of the best waterfalls in Cambodia and totally worth a visit.

Joining a day tour from Siem reap to Angkor is easy and includes a visit during sunrise. For prices and availability check here .

Day 5 – 6 | Battambang, Cambodia’s underrated gem

The city that’s most famous for its Bamboo train. Driving through the rice fields with a traditional train is a fun thing to do. You can combine it with a visit to the killing caves of Phnom Sampeau which was used as an execution site. During the Red Khmer regime, they used this cave to kill their victims and threw the bodies into the cave afterwards. On the other side of the tragic cave, you have the Bat Cave. Every day around sunset thousands of bats leave the cave, an amazing show by Mother Nature. In the city centre of Battambang, you can see the French colonial influences. You can say that Battambang has something special, although there isn’t much to do in the city, the cosy restaurants and laid-back cafes make it worth your stay. We really enjoyed eating tapas at The Lonely Tree Cafe or getting lunch at About The World.

Transit | Sihanoukville

Once a sleepy beach town but it’s rapidly transforming due to Chinese investments, Sihanoukville has now, sadly,  become a gambler’s paradise, with casinos popping up on just about every corner.

Not our favourite town, but that was no problem for us. We went straight to the ferry that brought us to Koh Rong. Sihanoukville is the best-known harbour city and you have to go here when you are going to visit Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem.

Day 7 – 11 | Koh Rong, Cambodia’s island paradise

If you like to have some time off at the white beaches or take a relaxing swim in the clear blue sea. Koh Rong is your place to go. When on the island you can choose to stay on the busy side to visit the bars and go partying. Or just pick a quiet beach on the other side of the island. We really liked our stay on the island and planned it in the middle of our itinerary. We even stayed a few days longer than planned.

Day 12 – 14 | Kampot, Cambodia’s scenic riverside town

Kampot is a small city on the coast with a lovely relaxing vibe. One of the charms of Kampot is that life feels slow over here. We ended up staying there a bit longer because of the nice atmosphere and good restaurants. We had some awesome Khmer food at Rikitikitava and enjoyed some good burgers at Pepe and the Viking. A must-do when in Kampot is driving to the top of Bokor Hill, you can easily rent a motorbike and explore the mountain by yourself. On top of the 1,080 meters high mountain, you have a viewpoint that gives you the most amazing views of the region. Take a visit to the famous Catholic Church or just restored Bokor Hill Hotel, which is now a hotel. If you own a drone you should definitely take it with you to the top, the bird-eye view is just mesmerizing!

Day 15 – 16 | Kep, an authentic local town

If you love seafood make your way to Kep. This small coastal city is well known for its ‘’Crab Market’’. You can easily spend a day in Kep to rent a motorbike and explore the surrounding countryside. Take a look at La Plantation which is one of Cambodia’s famous pepper plantations. They provide you with a free guided tour and let you taste all different kinds of peppers. The dusty road brings you through local villages and lovely rice fields and you can even have a stop at Kampot’s “Secret Lake”.

Day 17 – 18 | Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s energetic capital

The capital of Cambodia is really overwhelming and definitely not our favourite place in Cambodia. But if you don’t know anything about what happened during the Khmer Rouge regime , then this is where you should go. Have a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and take a look at the tragic Killing Fields just outside of Phnom Penh. Keep in mind that visiting those places can be shocking and may need some time to settle. If you want to see some other cultural things in Phnom Penh pay a visit at What Preah Keo better known as The Silver Pagoda. Or maybe even try a traditional Khmer cooking lesson. At night you can have dinner or a drink at one of the many restaurants or rooftop bars.

Stay safe in Cambodia | Travel insurance

Though Cambodia is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

Plan your Cambodia itinerary with these essential guides

A complete guide to bokor national park, cambodia’s astonishing mountain paradise.

8 Wonderful things to do in Kampot, Cambodia’s laidback riverside town

A travellers guide to Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s majestic ancient kingdom

6 Awesome things to do on Koh Rong, Cambodia’s island paradise

6 Things to do in Battambang, Cambodia’s underrated gem

Some gorgeous photos and a really good itinerary! I wish I had longer when I visited Cambodia so I could see more of the places you listed here! Guess I’ll just have to come back again, what a shame! Great post!

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Cambodia Itinerary for 1 to 3 Weeks

Planning a trip to Cambodia? How exciting! This Cambodia itinerary shares three options, 1 week, 2 weeks and 3 weeks, to help you plan the perfect route for your Cambodia travels.

From ancient temples to tropical beaches, charming colonial towns and bustling cities, there is no shortage of adventures to be had in Cambodia. The challenge is fitting it all into your itinerary! These adventures combined with welcoming locals, culture and affordability make Cambodia one of the most popular backpacking destinations in South East Asia.

This guide shares essential information for planning your trip to Cambodia, such as getting visas and when to travel, alongside Cambodia itineraries for a 1-week, 2-week and 3-week trip. They give you a good idea of what is logistically possible, but feel free to modify them as needed to suit your travel plans!

➡️ Planning a Trip to Cambodia

➡️ How long do you need to travel Cambodia ➡️ Getting a visa for Cambodia ➡️ Daily budget for travelling Cambodia ➡️ How to travel around Cambodia ➡️ Best time to travel in Cambodia ➡️ Where to start/end you trip?

➡️ Cambodia Itineraries

➡️ 1 week Cambodia Itinerary ➡️ 2 week Cambodia Itinerary ➡️ 3 week Cambodia Itinerary

➡️ Cambodia Itinerary Routes

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, all marked with * Booking through these links generates a small commission for me at no extra cost to you.

Planning a Trip to Cambodia

So, you’re just getting started on planning your travels to Cambodia – I’m sure you have so many questions! In this section, I answer some of the most important questions like how to get a visa for Cambodia, a daily budget, how long to spend travelling, where to start and end your trip, how to travel around and the best time of year to visit Cambodia.

If you don’t need this information, you can skip to the Cambodia itineraries .

Getting a visa for Cambodia in 2023

To visit Cambodia, you will need a visa. Luckily the process is simple for most passports, with the option of visa-on-arrival or e-visa (both costing $30). Cambodia also has visa exemptions for ASEAN countries.

I recommend getting the e-visa to save time processing at the airport or border crossing. You can apply for an e-visa through the government portal here .

✍️ How to Visit Cambodia as a Tourist in 2023

Daily budget for travelling Cambodia

When it comes to travel, Cambodia is very budget-friendly. My average daily spend during the month I travelled around Cambodia was $28. While I was actively travelling on a budget, you can see from my Cambodia posts  that we didn’t have to compromise on activities and destinations. Opting to stay in hostels and homestays kept our budget low.

That said, there are some beautiful hotels and resorts where you can experience 5-star quality for a fraction of the price in Europe or North America, so you might have the budget to experience some luxury during your trip to Cambodia.

✍️ The Cost of Travelling Cambodia on a Budget

How long do you need to travel Cambodia?

If you have limited time, 1 week is enough to see the highlights of Cambodia. To dive deeper into the culture and history of Cambodia, you’ll need more time.

Of course, it depends on your interests, but for me, the sweet spot is around 2 weeks. With 2 weeks in Cambodia, you can explore Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong, Battambang and Siem Reap! It is a fast-paced and action-packed fortnight.

The 3-week itinerary covers the key destinations, as well as the off-the-beaten-path Mondulkiri province.

How to travel around Cambodia

While Cambodia has 2 train lines and a couple of domestic airports, most travellers use buses to get around as the country is relatively small. If you’re on a budget, bus or train travel is the most likely though it does mean that you might have a few long travel days.

I don’t recommend flying if you can avoid it (it’s more environmentally friendly to grab a bus) but if you only have 1 week in Cambodia it will save you a full day of travel to fly from Sihanoukville to Siem Reap.

Best time of year to visit Cambodia

The best time of year to travel to Cambodia is during the winter months, from November to March as this is the dry season. The dry season brings reliable blue skies with temperatures slightly lower, though Cambodia remains very hot all year so this is something to prepare for.

During the summer, Cambodia is in monsoon season which brings rainstorms, humidity and heat. When I travelled to Cambodia during the monsoon season, my plans were rarely affected by monsoon rain as I planned my days around it. It generally rains for a couple of hours in the afternoon with sunshine for the rest of the day (the majority of the Cambodia photos on my blog were taken during the Monsoon season).

Where to start/end your Cambodia trip?

In my opinion, the best place to start your Cambodia travels is Phnom Penh; the vibrant capital. With the main international airport, it is likely that this will be your first stop in the country. Phnom Penh is the main travel hub and you will likely have to pass through the city a couple of times during your trip to transit to another area of the country.

The best way to travel around Cambodia, and minimise backtracking, is to arrive in Phnom Penh and leave through Siem Reap (or vice versa).

In all my itineraries, I leave visiting Angkor Wat until the end of the trip (we love a bit of anticipation). This gives you time to adjust to the heat, culture and timezone before exploring a Wonder of the World!

If you are starting your trip in Siem Reap, just follow the itineraries in reverse.

The Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

In this guide, I share 3 itineraries of varying lengths to help you craft the perfect itinerary for your trip! Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect from each itinerary so you can jump to the most appropriate:

1 Week Cambodia Itinerary 📍 Phnom Penh, Koh Rong and Siem Reap 2 Week Cambodia Itinerary 📍 Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong, Battambang, Siem Reap 3 Week Cambodia Itinerary 📍 Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong, Mondulkiri, Battambang, Siem Reap

To save repeating myself in each itinerary, as they overlap, I give the full details in the 1 week and 2 week Cambodia itineraries and refer back to these details where relevant in the 3 week Cambodia itinerary.

1 Week Cambodia Itinerary

A whirlwind week of history and culture, paradise beaches and mesmerising ancient temples.

This 1 week Cambodia itinerary has you checking out the bustling capital of Phnom Penh where you’ll get to grips with the sombre history of Cambodia, before dipping your toes in the tropical paradise of Koh Rong Island, and finally heading across the country to Siem Reap where you’ll discover the iconic temples of Angkor Wat.

Day 1 and 2: Phnom Penh

Let’s hit the ground running with a couple of days in the Cambodian capital; Phnom Penh . For backpackers, check into Onederz * hostel which has a social vibe and is perfectly located for a wander through the city!

Get your bearings on your first day by visiting the Royal Palace, climbing up to Wat Phnom temple, browsing at the Central Market and taking a sunset wander along the riverfront (it’s great for people-watching).

The mood is more sombre for your second day in Phnom Penh, as you visit the S21 Prison and Killing Fields. These two museums are dedicated to educating visitors on the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge during their reign of terror in 1970s Cambodia. It’s not fun but it is a worthwhile topic to understand before you travel around Cambodia and these two sites are the best places to learn more.

✍️ 10 Best Things to do in Phnom Penh

Day 3 and 4: Koh Rong

It’s time to leave Phnom Penh and head south to the tropical island of Koh Rong . To get to Koh Rong you will first have to take the bus to Sihanoukville where you can catch the speed ferry to Koh Rong. I recommend taking the earliest bus possible from Phnom Penh so you can get to Koh Rong in time to enjoy the afternoon there. You can book the bus and ferry in advance via Camboticket *, a search engine that compares travel options for you to book the most suitable.

💰 $14 bus + $24 return on the speed ferry ⏰ 6hr bus (3hr minivan) + 45min speed ferry

Book a return for the ferry to Koh Rong for a simple return trip to the mainland (and you’ll save some cash).

I recommend staying somewhere near Kaoh Touch Beach for the convenience of activities and finding food. Nest Beach Club * is the most popular place for Backpackers, but there are some lovely resorts on the island if you have the budget for it.

While on Koh Rong you have to swim with the bioluminescent plankton – you’ll see it best on a boat trip so join one of the snorkelling tours! Other cool things you can do are kayak through the mangroves, hike to the secret waterfall and party at Nestival .

✍️ 10 Things to do on Koh Rong ✍️ 8 Things to Know Before Visiting Koh Rong

Day 5: Travel from Koh Rong to Siem Reap

Day 5 of your 1-week Cambodia itinerary is a travel day for getting from Koh Rong to Siem Reap. You have 2 options for travelling this route; flight or night bus. Both start with taking the ferry from Koh Rong to Sihanoukville. As mentioned above, book a return ticket for the ferry so you have it organised in advance.

From Sihanoukville, you can take a bus direct to Siem Reap. The buses run during the night and have you arriving in Siem Reap ready to explore the next morning. You can book tickets via Camboticket *, a search engine that compares the options for your route.

💰 $20 ⏰ 12hrs overnight

There is an airport in Sihanoukville with domestic flights to Siem Reap. I don’t normally recommend flights for domestic travel when there is an alternative option, but in this case, it’s a good option if you have the budget and want to save some time.

💰 $100+ ⏰ 1hr

If you chose to fly, you need to take the earliest ferry back to Sihanoukville. But if you take the night bus, I recommend taking the last ferry and enjoying your day on Koh Rong.

Day 6: Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

For the finale of your week in Cambodia, we’re exploring one of the Wonders of the World; Angkor Wat. Our base for exploring the temples is the gateway town of Siem Reap . For backpackers, I recommend checking into  Onederz * which has both private and dorm rooms, and a couple of pools to cool off in after exploring the temples.

I recommend getting the 1-day Angkor Pass and doing the small circuit of Angkor – this circuit visits the key temples of Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom and the Angkor Thom gates. For details on how to explore the temples, check out the guides below:

✍️ 5 Tips for Visiting Angkor Wat ✍️ 3 Day Itinerary for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat

In the evening be sure to watch a show by the Phare Circus , people watch on Pub Street, explore the night markets and get one of Siem Reap’s infamous $3 foot massages.

Day 7: Siem Reap (or return to Phnom Penh)

Depending on your travel plans, the final day of your week in Cambodia will be spent exploring more of Siem Reap (if you’re leaving the country from here), or returning to Phnom Penh (if you’re leaving from there).

If you need to get back to Phnom Penh for onward travel, I recommend taking the bus which can be booked via Camboticket *.

💰 $13 ⏰ 6hrs

2 Week Cambodia Itinerary

In this Cambodia itinerary, we add the lush riverside town of Kampot and the city of Battambang, where you can ride the iconic bamboo train. With so much to see and do in this 2 week Cambodia itinerary, there are more travel days and less downtime but if you want to see it all this is the fastest way to do it!

Start your trip with a couple of days exploring Phnom Penh. Check out the section above for my suggestions for how to spend 2 days in the city, or check out my Travel Guide to Phnom Penh .

Day 3, 4 and 5: Kampot

From Phnom Penh, grab a bus to the charming colonial town of Kampot . Surrounded by countryside, from mountains to rivers to beaches, it’s the perfect place to get a dose of nature. You can book the bus via Camboticket *.

💰 $9 ⏰ 4hrs

Karma Traders * is the place to stay for backpackers, though I highly recommend spending at least 1-night at one of the riverside resorts that Kampot is renowned for. We stayed at Eden Ecovillage * which was the perfect reset, with riverfront access for swimming or kayaking, free yoga and a restaurant cooking incredible healthy food!

✍️  Checking into Eden Ecovillage in Kampot

There is so much to fill your time in Kampot, from water activities to day trips! Be sure to go for a kayak to the Green Cathedral and play at one of the waterparks. I absolutely loved our day trip to the secret lake & Kep, where we got to try fresh crab at the traditional market. Or you can take a trip up Bokor Mountain for amazing views!

✍️ Top 10 Things to do in Kampot ✍️ A Day Trip from Kampot to Kep

Day 6, 7 and 8: Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem

Continuing south, we’re trading the rivers of Kampot for the idyllic beaches of Koh Rong. To get to Koh Rong, take the bus to Sihanoukville and then jump on the speed ferry. You can find bus and ferry tickets on Camboticket *. I recommend leaving as early as possible so you can spend the majority of your day on Koh Rong, rather than in transit.

💰 $10 bus + $24 return speed ferry ⏰ 3hrs + 45min speed ferry

Check out the section above for my suggestions for what to do on Koh Rong, or check out my Travel Guide to Koh Rong .

If you want to add another destination, head back to Sihanoukville via a night on the nearby island of Koh Rong Sanloem. It’s similarly beautiful to Koh Rong, but it’s smaller size and fewer visitors give it a more “private island” vibe. You can take a quick 15min ferry from Koh Rong for $5-10, then use your return ferry ticket from Koh Rong Sanloem back to the mainland.

Day 9: Travel from Koh Rong to Battambang

Today is the biggest travel day in this 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary, as the only way to travel from the coast to the charming town of Battambang is via Phnom Penh.

I recommend taking the 9am ferry to Sihanoukville, the 11:30am or 12pm bus to Phnom Penh, and the onward 5:30pm bus to Battambang. All buses can be booked directly with  Virak Buntham (VET) . This travel itinerary has you arriving in Battambang in time for a well-deserved sleep, ready to explore the next day as well as including leeway for delays and time to grab food on route.

💰 $15 bus to Phnom Penh + $15 bus to Battambang ⏰  45min ferry + 3hr bus + 6hr bus (total will be 12hr+ with transfers)

Day 10: Battambang

Battambang might not be the most well-known tourist destination in Cambodia, but with some of the friendliest locals and some unique sites to see, you’ll find it well worth a spot on your itinerary. For backpackers, THE PLACE hostel * in the heart of the city is a popular place to stay, with some air-conditioned rooms. We stayed at Blue Diamond Guesthouse * which doesn’t have AC but does have a swimming pool to cool down in.

I recommend enlisting Mr Kim , an incredible local guide, to take you into the countryside, where you can learn about the trade villages and history of Battambang, ride the bamboo train, visit the killing cave memorial and witness millions of bats emerge from their cave at sunset. In the evening, watch one of the mesmerising performances at the Phare Battambang Circus .

✍️ How to Spend 1 Day in Battambang

Day 11, 12, 13: Siem Reap

Saving the best for last, it’s time to head to Siem Reap ready to visit Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat. From Battambang, Siem is a quick 3hr bus ride which means you will arrive with time to relax in the afternoon or jump straight into exploring. You can book the bus via  Camboticket *.

💰 $10 ⏰ 3hrs

Onederz * is the perfect place for backpackers to stay, with multiple pools to cool off with a cocktail after hot days exploring the temples. Check out my Travel Guide to Siem Reap for more recommendations.

With 3 days in Siem Reap, you have the option to explore the temples at a slower pace, or the time to dive deep into them. Check out my 3 Day Itinerary for Siem Reap and Angkor Wat for my recommendations on what temples to explore, as well as things to do in the evenings. If you didn’t catch the circus in Battambang, then the Phare Circus in Siem Reap is a must!

Day 14: Return to Phnom Penh (or relax in Siem Reap)

Depending on your onward travel plans, I’ve set aside the final day of your 2 week Cambodia itinerary to make your way back to Phnom Penh, or if you booked to travel out of Siem Reap this gives you a day to relax by the pool and recoup after an adventure fueled trip!

3 Week Cambodia Itinerary

This 3 weeks itinerary takes you beyond the highlights of Cambodia and off the tourist trail in Mondulkiri province. Home to the last wild elephants in Cambodia, this route is perfect for seasoned travellers who want to dive deep into the culture and nature of Cambodia.

Start your trip with a couple of days exploring the capital of Cambodia. See the 1-week itinerary above for how to spend 2 days in Phnom Penh.

From Phnom Penh, head south to the riverside town of Kampot. All the details for how to get to Kampot, things to do and where to stay can be found in the section above .

Day 6, 7 and 8: Koh Rong (or Koh Rong Sanloem)

After a couple of days of exploring the jungles of Kampot, it’s time to hit the islands. Check out the section above for travel details and recommendations.

Day 9: Return to Phnom Penh

See the section above with details on how to get from the islands to Phnom Penh.

Day 10, 11, 12 and 13: Travel to Mondulkiri

It’s time to get off the beaten path and experience the lush mountains of the Mondulkiri region. Located 320km north of Phnom Penh, Mondulkiri is known for its ethnic tribes, waterfalls and wild elephants. We didn’t have the time to visit Mondulkiri during our month in Cambodia due to work commitments and it’s my biggest regret as it looks incredible!

The main town in Mondulkiri is called Sen Monorom and the only way to get here is via bus. Due to the roads, it will most likely take you 1 day to get to Mondulkiri from Phnom Penh. You can book the bus via Camboticket *.

💰 $15 ⏰ 6-8hrs

When I get the chance to travel to Mondulkiri, you can bet I’ll be staying at the Tree Lodge *. The owner runs a local NGO called The Mondulkiri Project which rescues elephants that remain in captivity. Through the lodge, you can trek with the elephants, hike to waterfalls and stay overnight in the jungle with guides from the Bunong tribe, an ethnic group native to the region. The tribe has a deep spiritual connection with nature and a unique culture you can get insight into from the guides.

✍️ 2 Days in Mondulkiri, by Ditch the Map

Day 14 and 15: Return to Phnom Penh

Travelling onwards from Mondulkiri is challenging, and will require heading back to Phnom Penh. Due to the long travel time, I recommend spending the night in Phnom Penh to split up the journey to the next stop; Battambang. You can book the buses via Camboticket *.

💰 $15 to Phnom Penh + $15 Battambang ⏰ 6-8hrs + 6hr to Battambang

Day 16 and 17: Battambang

Check out the section above for my Battambang suggestions.

Day 18, 19 and 20: Siem Reap

Onto the grand finale; exploring Angkor Wat, a Wonder of the World. Check out the section above for my suggestions for how to spend 3 days in Siem Reap, or check out my Travel Guide to Siem Reap .

Day 21: Return to Phnom Penh (or relax in Siem Reap)

The final day is set aside for you to make your way back to Phnom Penh, or to relax in Siem Reap if your onward travel is from here.

Cambodia Itinerary Routes for 1 week, 2 weeks and 3 weeks

This map shares the routes suggested for each of the Cambodia itineraries outlined in this guide. Click through the side panel to see each itinerary separately.

Click the star next to the title to save the map to your Google Drive for later.

Whether travelling for 1 week, 2, or 3 weeks, I hope this guide has helped you to craft the perfect Cambodia itinerary for your trip. You’re going to have an incredible time!

Found this Cambodia itinerary useful? Save it for later!

For more information on planning a trip to Cambodia, be sure to check out my Complete Cambodia Travel Guide which includes everything you need to know for travelling around the country and all my local travel guides.

✍️ How to Visit Cambodia as a Tourist in 2022 ✍️ The Cost of Travelling Cambodia on a Budget ✍️ 5 Beautiful Places to Visit in Cambodia

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Meet Frances; Scottish lass turned Vietnam expat, and creator of this space. She can be found sippin’ ice tea’s and writing about her adventures from her sunny base of Saigon, Vietnam’s southern metropolis. All with a healthy side of researching her next road trip. With 5 years of living, travelling and scooting around Asia under her belt – let Frances be your guide to travelling the region.

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Home » Itineraries » Southeast Asia Itineraries » Cambodia Itinerary – 3 Weeks

Cambodia Itinerary – 3 Weeks

The Southeast Asian country of Cambodia is of course famous for Angkor Wat which draws visitors from across the globe. It is one of many Khmer temples that remain in Cambodia today, and you can enjoy days exploring them here. The country also has some fantastic natural landscapes. Of particular interest are its islands, which are becoming an increasingly popular destination for backpackers. However there has also been some tragic events in Cambodia’s more recent past, particularly under the rule of the Khmer Rouge. This Cambodia Itinerary is designed to show the highlights of this country but also give you some context, so you can understand what to expect when visiting.

I have written this Cambodia Itinerary based on my own trip to the country. So please consider it to be from a backpackers perspective, not a definitive guide! My aim here is to help you plan a trip by telling you about the destinations and what to see there. I will also advise you what I think is a good length of time to spend in each one.

In terms of the time to complete it I’m stating it will take 3 weeks from arrival. You will note I’ve actually only listed 20 nights worth of destinations. This is so you can use the 21st day for getting to and from the airport, should you be flying in or out. If your coming and/or going by land then I will cover some border crossing ideas throughout this post. At the end of the route I will give you some ideas about how to extend it based on what other backpackers have told me. You can of course amend it as you see fit, adding or taking out parts to plan you ideal trip.

What this Cambodia Itinerary will cover

• A quick overview of the country’s history
• Some need to know’s before you go
• Koh Rong Sanloem
• Other options (including Koh Kong)
• Information on onward travel to Thailand

A Quick Overview of Cambodia’s History

The history of Cambodia is of course a long one. In terms of your information relevant to your visit we will start with the Khmer Empire. Existing from 802 CE till 1431 CE, it was during this time the temples you find today at Siem Reap were built. Their powerful empire actually extended beyond modern day Cambodia, covering parts of surrounding countries too. During it’s time it’s rulers switched between Hinduism and Buddhism, though this is of course simplifying it. The temples you see today will feature a mixture of imagery from these two religions.

After the fall of the Khmer Empire the locals fought with the Siamese and Vietnamese for control over land and resources. Then the French Colonial Era began in 1863 when the country become a protectorate of France. This continued as part of French Indochina until World War 2. After the Fall Of France in 1941 Japan took control of the region. Upon the war ending in 1945 defeat France tried to regain control over the region but eventually Cambodia became independent in 1953.

After a civil war the Khmer Rouge took control in 1975. At this point they were considered communist, though under Pol Pot they morphed into genocidal agrarian nationalists. They killed an estimated 3 million people from a population of 8 million. What they did was truly horrific, as well as the killings they forced people out of the cities into the countryside. They tried to make everyone become a farmer, regardless of their profession, and fed them hardly anything. Eventually in 1975 the Vietnamese invaded and removed them from power, though conflict lasted in the country until the 1990’s.

Modern Cambodia

So the reason I included this history is so you understand the situation in Modern Cambodia. I always think context is important but it feels especially so for this country. The people have obviously been hugely effected by the Khmer Rouge’s genocide and the war that followed. You may see people that lived through this, and of course many who lost family. There is also a big gap between rich and poor here and poverty is rife. I personally found this quite upsetting at times.

The Vietnamese left in 1989 though animosity remains towards them despite it being their invasion that stopped the genocide. The Khmer Rouge itself finally ceased to exist in 1999, with its remaining members largely either going on trial or going into hiding. To be honest I think it’s quite a complex situation, so whilst I have given a quick overview on here I can’t really do it justice.

Additionally knowledge of the Khmer Empire is of course of interest to understand the temples and the religion in the country. Most Cambodians follow Theravada Buddhist, which is the state religion. Also the fact that the French ruled for so long here means you will see their influence too. Look out for it in the architecture and food in particular.

Important Info Before You Go

As with the rest of Southeast Asia , the weather can have a big impact on your travels here. Generally wet season (aka rainy season) runs from May until October. There can be particularly heavy rain during this monsoon. However you will avoid much of the crowds and also see the vegetation here at it’s greenest and lushest. The dry season then runs from November until April. I personally visited in February and found that to be a good time, though it was very hot. November generally is the coolest, though that can also be busiest.

Take US Dollars

The Cambodian riel is the national currency here however it generally only used for small change. Widely used are US Dollars and it’s definitely advisable to take some with you before you go. There are some ATMs in the big cities however they can be a bit dodgy, so it’s advisable to take a good amount with you. Be sure to keep it safe from petty thieves.

Make sure you check the visa requirements for your nationality before you travel. Most countries can get a visa on arrival. You can get a good overview here on wikipedia. Be sure to check official sources for up to date info and prices.

Cambodia Itinerary – The 3 Week Route

We begin this Cambodia Itinerary in the capital, Phnom Penh. Personally when I visited Cambodia this was my first stop, having come in from Vietnam. As I mention in my Vietnam Itinerary , a good way to cross into Cambodia is my boat via one of the Mekong Delta tours. Its quick and efficient, plus you get the excitement of arriving on the water. This is a great introduction to Cambodia and a reminder of how important the Mekong Delta is to the Southeast Asia region. It also saves you from the hassles coming in by bus can cause. Namely long queues at the border and attempted scams. I’ve heard many a tale of stories of travellers crossing the border being asked to pay non-existent extra fee’s, for example.

If your coming from Thailand by land, then you are better off starting this Cambodia Itinerary in Siem Reap. That’s because it’s quicker and easier to get a bus there from Thailand than to try to head straight to Phnom Penh. In that case I would suggest doing Siem Reap and Battambang first, then taking a bus to Phnom Penh and continuing from there. Be careful crossing the border by bus, I have heard of scams that happen there.

Phnom Penh has an international airport, so if your flying into the country this may be your starting point anyhow. Siem Reap also has an airport, so flying into here to start is a valid option. Again just amend the route as above.

If your coming from the 4000 islands in Laos its also worth doing Kratie as your first stop, then heading to Phomn Penh to continue the route.

Phnom Penh – 2 nights

A great way to start this 3 week Cambodia Itinerary is with a visit to the Royal Palace. Dating from 1870, when it was completed, it is the official residence of the Cambodian Monarchy. Their are some beautiful buildings to admire here, as well Buddhist stupa’s and imagery. Not too far away you can find the Cambodian Independence Monument. It was built in 1958 to celebrate their independence from France and is worth a stop. Although I haven’t been myself I have heard the National Museum is good, so if you have time to spare that could be a good place to check out too.

On your second day here take a tuk tuk to visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (aka S-2) and the Killing Fields. The horrors of the Khmer Rouge really hit home and it can be a very emotional day. As I talked about in the history earlier they killed millions of people, and you will see graphic detail of their atrocities. I won’t go into further detail here, you should see and and learn about it for yourself. Just be prepared to really see horrific details.

In terms of Phnom Penh as a city, it’s not somewhere i’m fond of. I definitely recommend seeing the sites mentioned above, but I think other Southeast Asian cities have a lot more to them. You need to make sure you keep safe whilst in the city too, its a hot spot for petty theft and bag snatching. Don’t let this put you off, just use precautions. This is why I’ve only recommended 2 days here.

Kratie – 1 night

The town of Kratie is really known to travellers for one thing. That is the opportunity to see Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong river. They are very rare and at last count only 92 of them were left here. You can be taken out by local boatmen who will show you the Dolphins. They can be disturbed by boat motors, but the boatmen should know when to use their oars and make sure not to upset them. When I visited the boatman kept a sensible distance and I saw many Dolphins going about their lives, which was an awesome thing to witness.

Understandably, there are ethical concerns about this kind of tourism. Its important to remember that the 2 main threats to the Dolphins are fishing and potential of the river being dammed. Tourism brings in money that encourages locals to help protect the Dolphins. The WWF work with locals in the area to help protect them too. You can read about this here .

If your interested in going, I advise you travel is morning, then head to see the Dolphins as soon as you can. That way you will only need to spend one night here and can head to the next destination the next morning. You will have to pass back through Phnom Penh to get there, so will likely need to switch buses.

Siem Reap – 4 nights

The first day here is really just devoted to travel and arrival into Siem Reap. Even if you haven’t been to Kratie, it’s still a long route here from Phnom Penh. The next 3 days are devoted to seeing the fantastic Temples Of Angkor. Upon arrival I recommend you arrange a tuk tuk driver for these 3 days. Drivers are always keen to secure 3 days work, and you can ask at your guesthouse/hostel for drivers they recommend. You can discuss with them the best temples sites to visit, they usually have a recommended order.

Siem Reap is full of accommodation and food options, so it makes for a good base for visiting the temples. The (in)famous Pub Street is full of bars and clubs and a popular party spot. There are markets in Siem Reap too that are popular with tourists. They can be a great place to buy souvenirs, cloths and trinkets if that’s what your looking for.

On your second day the first thing you will do with our driver is head to buy a 3 day pass. You will need this for seeing all the temples. There are so many to see so for this Cambodia Itinerary I will just do a quick run through of the highlights.

The most famous of the Angkor temples, its an obvious place to start. Its particularly popular for sunrise though that can get very busy. I enjoyed visiting during the morning and spent a couple of hours exploring it’s interior. Historically it was built in the 12th Century as a Hindu temple, and was later converted to Buddhism. Whilst your exploring the site look out for it’s intricate decorations. Of particular interest to me was the mural showing the ‘Churning Of The Sea Of Milk’. Its one of the key legends in Hindu Mythology.

This is one of the most popular temples in the Angkor site. You can really see here how the jungle has grown over the temple buildings, with tree’s and roots covering them.

Angkor Thom

Once home to a million people, the Angkor Thom temple site is huge and spread out. There is a lot to see here and you should take your time to explore. The most popular part and arguably the most visually striking is the Bayon temple. Its at the centre of Angkor Thom and features many faces, carved into huge towers. Originally it was built as a Mahayana Buddhist temple, and later Hindu and Theravada Buddhist aspects were added by rulers following those religions.

The Grand Circuit

Having spent the first day of temples exploring the 3 above, the second day can be devoted to what local guides call ‘The Grand Circuit’. This is where you go further out from your base in Siem Reap and explore even more impressive temple sites. 2 I particularly enjoyed when I visited were Banteay Srei and Preah Khan. The former is quite far out and contains phallic pillars indicating worship of Shivea. It feels a bit smaller and intricate there, plus the reddish brick makes for different look. The latter Preah Khan is quite overgrown with jungle and you can see tree’s growing over the ruins. I also enjoyed East Mebon as it’s quite high so gives you some great views around the local area.

The Roluos Group

These are some of the oldest temples in the area, having been built during the 9th Century. They are quite far out too, about 13Km away from Siem Reap. They have a different look and feel to what you would have seen so far, smaller and more intricate. My favourite here was Preah Ko, I recommend asking your driver to show you it for sure.

Battambang – 2 nights

After 3 days of hardcore temple sightseeing, chances are you will be pretty tired out. I know I was when I did it! Lucky the next stop Battambang isn’t too far away, meaning after arriving on your first day you can get some rest. Try some of the city’s restaurants where you can get great local Khmer dishes as well Thai food and international delicacies. Its good to book a tuk tuk driver for the next day, they can take you to the sights around the city.

The second day here is all about seeing the varied attractions. Tuk tuk drivers will normally have an itinerary they will drive you through which takes in the big spots. You can discuss with them prices and what you want to see. The Bamboo train is a great place to start. You will be taken along an old railway line on a small bamboo cart, it’s quite a strange experience!

Some of the other things you can see include fruit bats, local farms and a Muslim fishing village. One big stop to see as evening approaches is the Phnom Sampeau hill. This was one of the sites of Khmer Rouge atrocities and it’s quite upsetting seeing details of their crimes. There is a cave here named ‘The Killing Cave’ where victims were executed. You will see a small shrine here including skulls and bones of some of the victims. There is also a shrine at the top of the mountain which has some good views over the area, as well as a local monkey population. Hide any food or water you have so they don’t steal it.

Nearby you can end your day with Battambang’s biggest attraction, seeing millions of Bats heading out for their evening meal! It really is impressive, what happens is that as the sun sets the local bat population flies out from their mountainside cave home to hunt for food. Its hard to say exact numbers but it seems like an endless stream.

Kampot – 3 nights

Your going have a full days travel coming from Battambang, unfortunately that’s just how it is going by bus around Cambodia. When you arrive the best thing to is find your accommodation, have some food and then get some rest.

Kampot is a pretty relaxed place with a nice riverside setting. After having an explore in the day you can take a river cruise in the evening. These are a good way to socialise with other travellers as well as see the local landscape. Cruises normally take you to see fireflies too, which is pretty cool.

For your final day here I recommend a bit of an adventure! Its time to visit the Bokor Hill Station. Up on Bokor mountain in the Preah Monivong National Park you can find some French Colonial Ruins. Most notable is an abandoned Hotel/Casino, that you can roam around and explore. Nearby there is also an abandoned Catholic Church. These ruins are quite eerie and definitely worth a visit. You also have the chance to admire the jungle of the national park and get some cool views across the area. If you or a friend rides a motorbike that is a great way to get to the top, otherwise you can join a minivan tour. You can rent bikes in the town.

If your pressed for time you can of course compact these 2 days into 1, doing Bokor in the day followed by the river cruise in the evening. I recommended 2 full days as thus far this Cambodia Itinerary has been quite packed so its good to relax. But of course if you wish you could save time here by compressing it.

Kep – 2 nights

Around half an hours journey away from Kampot is the small town of Kep. There is a nice beach here where you can relax. Its a pretty laid back area. The main attraction here is the Kep National Park. Its a great place to walk and explore the fauna. Look out for wildlife and see what you can spot. There is also a Butterfly Farm here that is worth stopping by.

Again, you could compress this into 1 day if your rushed for time. I’ve listed it as 2 days to allow for a beach day, but honestly if you arrive early enough you could do the park and beach in 1.

Koh Rong – 3 nights

Now it’s time to head to the islands! To get to them you need to go via Sihanoukville. I really don’t recommend hanging around for long there. It’s not a nice town and form my understanding it’s only gotten worse since I last visited. Take the boat as quick as you can to get to Koh Rong. On arrival you will land at the main beach. This beach is by far the worst I’ve seen on the islands, with a stench of sewage and far too much development. Still it has a nice vibe and is a good place to gran some drinks.

After staying a night on the main beach, you can set sail for one of the islands better beaches in the morning. There are several options and of course you may be limited by what accommodation is available, particularly if the island is busy. Personally I stayed in a hut with some friends on Sok San beach, and it was a really nice experience. Its good to stay a couple of nights on the island and relax and enjoy the scenery. Its possible to walk around the island by jungle paths but these can be overgrown and confusing, so I recommend sticking to using local boatman if you need to get around.

Koh Rong Sanloem – 3 nights

The next stop is Koh Rong’s neighbouring island, Koh Rong Sanloem. You should be able to take the boat straight here from Koh Rong’s main beach. I recommend staying in the laid back M’pai bay. Its set up for backpackers, with several hostel options. If you want more luxury there are several resorts on the island that are good options. Ko Rong Sanloem is a great place to relax and enjoy the island life. I found some good spots for sunset when I was here, as well as some nice beach walks.

I think Koh Rong Sanloem is a great relaxed place to end this Cambodia Itinerary. Unfortunately you will have to pass through Sihanoukville on your way out. If you do have to stay the night then I think it’s worth investing in a private room and dorm etiquette can be pretty bad here.

Got longer? Extending this Cambodia Itinerary

One place I’ve been that I recommend adding to this Cambodia Itinerary is the island of Koh Kong. Its very quite and you can’t actually stay here, only visit. You will need to stay in the town of Koh Kong and take a boat tour, but it’s worth it. It gives you the opportunity to explore quite beautiful beaches and see the local wildlife with very few people around. You can also visit the local national park where there is an impressive Mangrove Forest.

There are a couple of islands I have yet to visit that have been recommended to me by fellow backpackers. The first is Rabbit Island, which you can reach by boat from Kep. Its reportedly pretty quiet and a nice place to stay for a night or two in a beach side bungalow. I’ve also heard nice things about Koh Ta Kiev, which is another island you can reach from Sihanoukville. There does seem to be plans to ‘develop’ this island for mass tourism though, which is disappointing.

Other places that look interesting include Tonle Sap lake, which is home to floating fishing villages. There are some more national parks too, as well as the city of Kampong Cham if your interested in seeing more of Cambodia’s urban side.

Crossing to Thailand?

If you heading to Thailand next then I recommend crossing the border at Cham Yeam. You can take a tuk tuk there from Koh Kong and then cross by foot. Here you can take a minibus to the Thai city of Trat and go on from there. Options include taking a ferry to the island of Koh Chang or a bus to Bangkok . This is of course as an alternative to the most common route from Cambodia into Thailand, the Poipet-Aranyaprathet crossing. It is infamous for it’s scams and I think it’s worth going via Cham Yeam to avoid that hassle. Plus you can check out Koh Kong which I as mentioned above is worth a visit. When I went I was the only backpacker I saw crossing the border and the mini van to Trat was reasonably priced.

Thanks for reading this 3 week Cambodia Itinerary! I hope it helps you plan your travels to this country. If you have any feed back please leave a comment or contact me Twitter ,  Instagram  or  Facebook ! 

The featured image for this Cambodia Itinerary is of the Banteay Srei temple. As mentioned earlier, this was visited as part of the ‘Grand Circuit’ tour in Angkor.

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Cambodia – Country Guide

Bea Adventurous

This is a really helpful itinerary! So many helpful tips for when I plan on visiting again! I swear no matter how long you visit for, it’s never long enough! Great photos and a fantastic post!

Dave Does The Travel Thing

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Ultimate 3 weeks Itinerary Cambodia

Cambodia is, compared to its neighboring countries of Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand a fairly small country and not so difficult to travel. This applies for the length of traveling as the distances are not quite as long, yet, the route is also not as straightforward. Having the classic north to south or south to north routes such as in Laos or Vietnam, the itinerary Cambodia can be diverse. In total, though there are the classic and also well-known destinations that one will cover no matter which connections you end up taking. A circular route would be the most suggested one – here is a recommended itinerary for traveling the country in 3 weeks , mostly based on our own route and of what we have heard is worth seeing. Cambodia can also be visited in 2 weeks yet we highly suggest to do so in 3 weeks.

Most travelers will arrive in either the capital of Phnom Penh or the temple city of Siem Reap. As we landed in Siem Reap we used this as a starting point for discovering the country.

Day 1 – 4 Siem Reap, Angkor Wat

Siem Reap is a city located close to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and many others. The city serves as a hub for discovering the vast array of temples which are spread across a huge area outside of town. I emphasize HUGE because many people underestimate the distances and believe that it is all reduced to the temple of Angkor Wat. The Angkor Wat is actually a single temple and is only a fraction of what can be seen. Here are some pictures of Angkor Wat to get you inspired!

You can choose between a one-day, three-day or five-day ticket to see all the temples. We bought the three-day ticket and were able to see almost all of the temples. As you can easily get “templed out” after seeing so many temples and ruins we decided to have a break day after the second day of visiting. You can decide which days to go within a one-week period which allows you to have a day to rest in between. In total, the four days will allow you to see pretty much everything of the temples and the town and also gives you some time to relax in between.

SEE ALSO – 3-WEEK ITINERARY VIETNAM

Day 5 – 6 Phnom Penh

The capital city is known for its colonial architecture, different museums, and temples. Take a look at the royal palace and discover the side street restaurants and markets that are spread around the city. Alternatively, have a visit to the Killing Fields a bit outside of town and learn about the country’s cruel past. Enjoy the temples at sunset and have a nice walk along the scenic Mekong riverside. A nice time to spend for one or two days max. before you continue the journey. You will have to pass by the city when going down south or up north.

Day 7 – 11 Islands (Koh Rong, Koh Rong Sanloem & more)

Stunning beaches and clear waters will await you here. There are a few islands scattered a bit off the coast with the two biggest and most visited ones being Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem . Incredibly nice to swim and to do some boat tours around to discover the many beaches that can be found in different parts of the islands. Definitely spend around four or five days here to enjoy the spots.

Day 12 – 13 Sihanoukville

The town acts as a starting and departure point if you want to discover the islands. All the ferries leave from here and you can either choose to stay here first or after visiting the beaches off-shore. It is quite a new town and was primarily established because of Cambodia’s need for a larger port for the country’s overseas trading. The town offers a great variety of guesthouses, hotels, and casinos and large cruise ships stop-over here for some leisure time. There are a few beaches (not as stunning as on the islands) which allow for some chilling time – our favorite one named Otres Beach (picture below). Take a scooter and discover the area – no longer than two days needed.

Day 14 – 15 Kampot

Take a tour just a bit away from Sihanoukville and enjoy a relaxed stay in Kampot, a sleepy town along the Kampot River. We did not go here but heard it’s a very nice place to relax by the river, enjoy some nice sunsets and indulge yourself in some delicious Cambodian food. Probably also a nice place to rent a bicycle and do some touring around town and the river. Two to three days to spend here, depending on your need of taking a rest.

SEE ALSO – 3-WEEK ITINERARY THAILAND

Day 16 – 18 Mondulkiri (Sen Monorom & surrounding)

The country’s most eastern province and also the largest one still doesn’t attract many tourists. It is a highland area covered by thick forests and is quite a change to the very humid regions of the lowlands. Arriving in Sen Monorom, the region’s capital town, you can explore the surrounding forests by trekking or motorbike. Many agencies offer elephant rides (quite controversial, please don’t do it!) but we eventually found one where you can be close to these gentle giants and enjoy two days including a trek around the forest – read about our experience with the Cambodian Elephants here. There pretty much is just one road leading there and back and it is best to spend around three days there. We can recommend an amazing place to stay called the Nature Lodge which offer standalone bungalows in the middle of nature – quite an experience!

Day 19 – 21 Kratie and back to Siem Reap

Heading back from Mondulkiri you can go further up north, following the Mekong river to a town called Kratie . The town itself is rather unspectacular but here you get the chance to see the endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins . We took a Tuk-Tuk to the pier and a boat to see these beautiful animals jump around the water. It was very difficult to get a good picture but it was a great experience to see them up close in their natural environment.

Head back to Siem Reap after as there are many buses that go straight there. Enjoy another two to three days in Kratie and another relaxed day in Siem Reap to complete your three weeks stay in Cambodia.

Side Trips can also be made, depending on your time. We can recommend to also see the beach town of Kep , the temples, and village of Kampong Cham and the scenic area of Battambang . These can all be fit in between the route that we have mentioned above.

11 thoughts on “Ultimate 3 weeks Itinerary Cambodia”

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Really nice post. Thanks for sharing your route!

I am traveling to Cambodia soon. Do you have a recommendation for accommodation at Phnom Penh?? 🙂

Thanks in advance!

Hi Marta! Thank you 🙂 We stayed at the Good Morning Guest House in Phnom Penh.

Great blog, really useful to us as we are going to Cambodia soon, just wondered about journey times between places and how you got around? We don’t want to spend a fortune but also don’t want to be on loads of long distance bus journeys!

Thank you very much, Rebecca! Good to see you will visit this beautiful country. We took bus rides mostly, the distances are not that long. The longest ride was an overnight from Siem Reap to Sinhanoukville (like 10 hours, around 15 USD). Otherwise, the distances are ok and buses are quite cheap. We actually also tried some hitchhiking, which was fun 😉 Hope I could help a bit, check in your hotel as they offer these tickets. Let me know if you need some more advice!

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Hello. excellent job. I did not imagine this. This is a splendid story. Thanks!

Thanks, I hope we could help you in your search and inspire you as well!

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Cambodia Itinerary 3 Weeks | Cambodia Tours & Travel in 21 Days

Cambodia, a magical homeland, is definitely on your bucket list that you cannot just travel once. 3 weeks is the most perfect time to explore this stunning kingdom for the best tour with unforgettable memories. The following are the ideal itineraries that enable tourists to get the greatest experiences in 21 days itinerary in Cambodia.  Take a Cambodia Tour Package and see the real life of the locals.

Cambodia Itineraries 3 Weeks

On the Adventurous Path of Cambodia – 20 Days

Tour Route:  Siem Reap – Battambang – Kampong Cham – Kratie – Mondulkiri – Phnom Penh – Kampot – Sihanoukville – Siem Reap

Tour Highlights

• Experience Angkor Wat's mesmerizing sunrise and explore Siem Reap's ancient temples.
• Immerse in local culture, visit rural villages in Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Cham.
• Explore Battambang's provincial museum, Phnom Banon, and enjoy a thrilling ride on the Bamboo train.
• Travel to Mondulkiri and engage with elephants at the Elephant Valley Project.
• Uncover Phnom Penh's highlights, including the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Museum, and the vibrant Russian Market.

Things to Do & See in Cambodia within 3 Weeks

Phnom penh – start your amazing cambodia 3 weeks itinerary, phnom penh arrival.

Royal Palace & National Museum

Shopping in Phnom Penh

Killing Fields & S21 Prison

Siem Reap – the Second Destination in Your 3-week Itinerary in Cambodia

Travel from phnom penh to siem reap, siem reap – angkor complex.

Phnom Kulen, Beng Mealea in Siem Reap

Tonle Sap Lake, Kompong Phluk Village

Battambang – Continue to Highlight Your Itinerary

From siem reap to battambang.

The Bamboo Train

The next Stop in 21-day Cambodia Itinerary - Sihanoukville

Travel to sihanoukville by bus.

Sihanoukville Nightlife

Visit Ream National Park in Sihanoukville

The fitness retreat in sihanoukville.

Sihanoukville & Beaches

Koh Rong Samloem Island

Plan Itinerary for Kampot as the next Destination in Your Cambodia Trip

Travel from sihanoukville to kampot, things to do and see in kampot.

Comeback to Phnom Penh and Finish Your Itinerary

Recommended Itinerary for 3 Weeks in Cambodia

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Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Cambodia . Often overshadowed by neighboring Thailand, it’s a country full of warm and friendly people, beautiful coastlines, a lively nightlife, and a growing foodie scene. It’s also one of the cheapest countries in the region.

To be honest, I didn’t have high expectations when I first visited in 2006. Back then, all I knew about Cambodia was its awful history involving the Khmer Rouge and that it was home to the Wonder of the World Angkor Wat .

But I was blown away by the people and their warmth, spirit, and hospitality; the beautiful natural scenery; and the country’s long history. It was wonderful, and I ended up staying weeks longer than I thought I would ( I especially loved Phnom Penh ). I returned often, including spending over a month there when I was writing my first book. (It made for a great base of operations.)

In the last decade or so, Cambodia has grown by leaps and bounds. Sleepy little towns I visited before are now megacities, tourists (especially Russians and Chinese) visit en masse, there are more ATMs (there was exactly one in the country when I first went), and there’s a growing expat and foodie scene.

Cambodia still has problems, but it’s a lot more cosmopolitan today than when I first went. There are a lot more travelers here too, making it a great place to explore as a backpacker or budget traveler as it’s now a little easier to get around.

But what should you do when you visit Cambodia?

How should you plan your trip? Where should you go and where should you stay?

Below are some itineraries that include the best destinations in Cambodia to help you plan your trip. You can follow my suggestions to the letter or mix and match itineraries — whatever you prefer!

Cambodia Itineraries

• One Week in Cambodia
• Two Weeks in Cambodia
• Three Weeks in Cambodia

What to See and Do in Cambodia: A One-Week Itinerary

The main attraction is the Royal Palace. Start there, and don’t miss the beautiful flower gardens and the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is made up of more than 5,000 silver tiles; inside is an emerald-covered Buddha and a diamond-covered Maitreya Buddha. It also has murals around its outer wall that tell the story of the Ramayana.

On the palace grounds are five stupas, with the two largest to the east containing the ashes of King Norodom and King Udung (the two most famous kings of modern Cambodia) and a statue of King Norodom on horseback. (Currently closed due to COVID-19).

After seeing the palace, learn about the country’s tragic, not-too-distant history. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a former school where the Khmer Rouge interrogated and tortured people in the 1970s. You’ll see rusty beds and torture devices, in sharp contrast to the beautiful trees and lovely jasmine smell in the gardens. Admission is $5 USD for adults and $3 USD for anyone under 18.

Afterward, head to the Killing Fields, about 14 kilometers (9 miles) from Tuol Sleng. Although a visit to Choeung Ek (the best-known site) may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, it makes for a hallowed and memorable experience, a testament to the dangers of uncontested power. You won’t believe the memorial building in the center that is filled with skulls. Admission is $6 USD; expect to pay around $15 USD for a return-trip tuk-tuk (which you can share with a couple people to split the cost).

(Tip: Visit the museum before heading to the Killing Fields, as it will open your eyes to the atrocities that happened here.)

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh : Mad Monkey – A lovely social hostel with a bar & restaurant, beer garden, and swimming pool. They organize all kinds of events and tours so it’s easy to make friends here.

Also, be sure to check out the Cambodian Living Arts Center, a traditional dance school and performance center where you can watch students in training and see traditional live theater. This is a fun way to spend a couple of hours learning about the artistic traditions of the country. Tickets start from about $25 USD. Sometimes there is a dinner show as well!

Make sure you stroll along Sisowath Quay on the Mekong River. The 3-kilometer (1.9-mile) walkway is busy and full of restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops and makes for the perfect area to soak up the local pace of life.

If you have more time, there’s also the Central Market. Built in 1937, this art-deco ziggurat seems very out of place in Phnom Penh. A huge dome with four wings (it’s super ugly), it’s a wonderful place to seek refuge from the midday sun. You’ll find everything from clothing to electronics to souvenirs here but save your shopping for elsewhere because even when you bargain them down, you’re still paying a hugely inflated price. But wander around, stop for a drink, and take in the scene. Just watch out for pickpockets while you’re here.

If you’re looking to soak up some sun, Independence Beach and Otres Beach are probably your best bets. Serendipity Beach used to be a great party spot, but there’s a lot of Chinese development going on now, so I wouldn’t stay there.

Where to Stay in Sihanoukville : Onederz – This hostel is a bit basic but it’s fine for a night before heading over to the islands. It’s cheap, there’s a pool, and it’s close to all the main sights.

From Sihanoukville, hop on a boat and take a 45-minute ride to Koh Rong. While you can stay overnight, if you’re pressed for time, you can do it in a day trip (but stay overnight if you can). The beaches here are way better than on the mainland (and a lot less polluted). Snorkeling day trips cost approximately $25 USD and include lunch and equipment; there are PADI-certified schools in the area that offer a variety of different dive trips for one or more days.

If you don’t feel like heading to Koh Rong, you could book motorbike trip to Bokor National Park (as well as longer, multiday trips if you’re interested). There, you can hike through a great rainforest or see the atmospheric ruins of the French aristocracy for whom Bokor was a big drawback in the day. You’ll have some amazing views and find ruins, waterfalls, and temples all around. Motorbike day tours cost around $140 USD.

You could also do a day trip to Kampot and the pepper fields in that area too. Half-day tours cost around $25 USD.

(Note: It’s better to take the night bus so as not to waste a day. You won’t sleep well, but you also won’t lose a day!)

Siem Reap is located on the northeastern side of Tonle Sap Lake and is the main access to Angkor Wat . The center remains a rural old town, with French-style houses and shops. The area around the Old Market is crowded with locals and foreigners all day long and has a bit of a party vibe to it.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap : Mad Monkey – A fun, lively, and social hsotel with a bar, pool, and lots of tours and organized activities to help you meet people and explore the city.

The most popular temples are Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Thom. I would recommend getting a multi-day pass so you can visit some of the outer temples where there are fewer visitors. While a single-day visit can cover the basics, this is an amazing site to explore so I highly recommend two days (at least).

You can hire a tuk-tuk for the day for around $25 USD or rent bicycles and explore on your own (bikes cost around $5 USD per day). Tuk-tuks have room for 3-4 people, making it a cheap and convenient option if you can split the ride with other travelers.

Angkor Wat is open daily from 5am to 6pm. Admission is $37 USD per person for a day pass, $62 USD for a three-day pass, and $72 USD for a seven-day pass.

Known as “the city of women,” this temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and features a number of outstanding red sandstone statues. (You need an Angkor Wat Pass to visit.)

If you have time, visit Tonle Sap, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and UNESCO nature reserve. It is 52 kilometers (32 miles) from Siem Reap. Sailing down the river and around the lake gives you a look at how closely Cambodian life is tied to this major waterway. You can rent a boat for around $20 USD.

What to See and Do in Cambodia: A Two-Week Itinerary

Want to spend more time in Cambodia? Great! You should! There are tons of other places to visit. Here are my suggestions:

Days 1 & 2 – Phnom Penh Follow the Phnom Penh itinerary from above.

Day 3 & 4 – Sihanoukville Follow the Sihanoukville itinerary from above.

Day trips costs around $25 USD and include lunch and snorkeling equipment, but since you have the time, spend a few nights here relaxing and enjoying beach life.

There are also other islands nearby if you want to stay longer and explore, including Koh Rong Samloem, which is becoming something of a backpacker paradise (there’s even a Full Moon Party there now).

Consider taking two full days here. Sure, it’s quite sleepy and there’s not a lot to do, but it’s the perfect place to relax, eat all the delicious crabs the city is famous for, and read a book. You can also spend some time on nearby Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) too, a secluded and charming escape from the world if you’re looking to disconnect. Basic bungalows can be rented for under $10 USD per night and it’s just $20 USD to get there.

Where to Stay in Kep : Khmer House Hostel – Kep is pretty spread out, so wherever you stay, make sure you rent a bike or scooter. This hostel is a good option as it’s not far from the Crab Market.

I’d spend one night in Kampot. It’s another quiet town on the coast. Most people come here to enjoy the scenic riverside views as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. The area used to be a getaway for the French, so you’ll see old French architecture around.

At night, the street near the old bridge is lined with fruit shake vendors. Try a million. The city is famous for them.

Also, if you only do one thing in this entire itinerary, make sure it’s eating the ribs at The Rusty Keyhole. They are some of the best ribs I’ve ever had in my entire life. I still dream of it.

Where to Stay in Kampot : Karma Traders Kampot – With a pool, AC, hot showers, a restaurant on-site, and a rooftop bar, this hostel has everything you need for a fun stay. The staff are great and it’s super easy to meet people here too.

Days 11, 12, & 13 – Siem Reap Follow the Siem Reap itinerary from above. Angkor Wat is best seen slowly, so use your days to explore it as much as possible. There are a lot of out-of-the-way temples to visit that are free of crowds.

Day 14 – Siem Reap On your last day in Cambodia, why not take a cooking class? The class sizes tend to be around six people, and you will learn to prepare three different meals, as well as get recipe cards at the end. Prices start around $20 USD per person; local guesthouses can help arrange a class.  

What to See and Do in Cambodia: A Three-Week Itinerary

Have even more time for Cambodia? Good! Cambodia has a lot more to it than the major spots on the backpacker trail.

Days 1, 2, & 3 – Phnom Penh and Kirirom National Park Follow the above suggestions, but also head out to Kirirom National Park for a day trip. This park has all sorts of walking trails, mountain biking trails, waterfalls, and a few lakes. It was the first official park in the country and is a good place to go to take a break from the city.

The park is around a two-hour drive from the city, so you’ll need to hire a driver for the day. The best way to do this is to find some travelers to join you so you can share a ride, which costs around $80 USD for the day.

Days 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8 – Sihanoukville and the Islands Follow the above suggestions but at a much slower pace!

Days 9, 10 & 11 – Kep and Rabbit Island Follow the above suggestions for Kep, but head out to Rabbit Island for a rustic island getaway.

Days 12 & 13 – Kampot Follow the above suggestions!

Days 14, 15, & 16 – Siem Reap Follow the above suggestions!

There are no public buses that go there (the roads were only paved a few years ago), so you’ll have to arrange transportation via your hostel or hotel.

When you arrive, you’ll discover Cambodia without the tourism. Get familiar with Battambang by exploring the town on foot (or by tuk-tuk). Check out the Phsar Boeung Choeuk and Phsar Naht markets. You’ll also want to visit the gorgeous pagodas and temples, such as Wat Pippitharam (near the Old Market), Wat Bovil, Wat Kandal, and Wat Damreay Sar.

In the evening, check out the Battambang Circus. The show is put on by students at a Cambodian nonprofit art school, so your donations go to a good cause.

Where to Stay in Battambang : The Place Hostel & Rooftop Bar – With AC, female-only dorms, and a great rooftop bar, this hostel is a fun and cheap place to stay. It’s not super social but, with limited options in town, this is the best place to stay.

While you’re wandering, don’t miss the Art Deco central market building and the Victory swimming pool (where you can take a dip if you’re in the mood). You may want to visit the Battambang Museum; admission is just $1 USD and you’ll learn a lot about the history of the area.

After lunch, you should grab a tuk-tuk and head a bit out of town to check out Phnom Sampeu, a large hill where you’ll find some caves with Buddhist temples in them. There’s also another cave at the foot of Phnom Sampeu; this is where you want to be around dusk, when millions of bats fly out of the cave in search of food. It’s an incredible sight! You can hire a driver for around $20 USD for a full day.

I always love my time in Cambodia . It lacks the polish of Thailand, making travel here a little more rustic and challenging.

But more amazing than any of the country’s sights and activities are the people. I’ve always found them to be incredibly welcoming. Even with so much darkness clouding their recent history, Cambodians always go above and beyond, making any trip here a memorable one.

But don’t take my word for it. Come and see this incredible country for yourself. These suggested Cambodia itineraries can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this amazing destination!

Book Your Trip to Cambodia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. My favorite places to stay are:

• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• Mad Monkey (Siem Reap)
• Onederz (Sihanoukville)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Cambodia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Cambodia for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Travel Guide

• Things to Do
• Planning a Trip
• In One Week
• In Three Weeks

In Three Weeks in Cambodia

With 3 weeks to play with, you can start in the north of Laos entering at Huai Xai and then have a leisurely journey down the Mekong to Luang Prabang. Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai in north Thailand and from there take a bus to Chiang Kong from where you can cross over into Laos. From there, let the Mekong be your guide.

Day 1: Journey to Luang Prabang

Once you have completed immigration formalities in Huay Xai, walk down to the left of the immigration building to where the slow boats to Luang Prabang are moored. These used to be commercial vessels for which you had to haggle hard to get a decent price for passage, and you shared the journey with farmers (and often their livestock). Now there are boats specifically assigned for tourists. The journey to Luang Prabang is 2 days of scenic views, sticky rice, and if you are lucky with your fellow passengers, convivial chitchat. You will stop for the night in Pakbeng. Be on the lookout for scams (and this, sadly, includes the children). Don't let people carry your bags for you when you get off the boat. This once very basic little one-street town situated on a rocky bend of the river is now fairly developed. There are a number of guesthouses and even some midrange hotels and chichi cafes.

Day 2: Arrival in Luang Prabang

Continue your slow trip down the Mekong. Enjoy the dramatic forested limestone mountain scenery, the passing rapids, and the village life along the riverbank. You will arrive in Luang Prabang at about 4pm. Once you have checked into your hotel, have a wander and take in the tranquil beauty of this most beautiful of towns. Enjoy the coffee, the baguettes, the wine, and the sunset.

Day 3: Luang Prabang

Tour the area's temples and sights. Try a bowl of Vietnamese pho for lunch. Have a gander around the central market in the daytime and the night market in the evening.

Day 4: Pak Ou Caves

Visit Pak Ou Caves and see the massed Buddhas. In the afternoon enjoy a herbal sauna and massage -- Luang Prabang has become famous for them. Once suitably relaxed, head to where the long-distance ferries stop and watch the sunset as the sun glows red behind the mountain on the opposite bank of the river.

Day 5: Arrival in Phonsavan

Take the bus to Phonsavan. It will be your base from which to explore the Plain of Jars. It's a grueling 10 hours but the incredible scenery is worth the slog. Phonsavan is not a very interesting town (in fact, it's downright dreary). Get fed and watered and call it an early night.

Day 6: The Plain of Jars

The best way to see the Plain of Jars is by booking a tour with one of the guesthouses in town. Most of them offer a package, costing about $14 per person. You can do it on your own, but it's not recommended -- since the jars are spread out in a number of groupings you might miss something significant.

Day 7: Rte. 13 to Vang Vieng

Take the bus to Vang Vieng. This is an 8-hour drive where once again you are treated to some fantastic scenery along Rte. 13.

Day 8: Vang Vieng

Cross the Nam Song River and spend the morning wandering around the limestone outcrops on the other side. After heading back to town for lunch, enjoy the pointless but fun activity of "tubing" -- drifting down the river on an inflated tractor inner tube.

Day 9: Arrival in Vientiane

Take a bus or minibus to Vientiane (about 3 hr.). After lunch, take in some of the sights such as Wat Pha Kaeo and Wat Si Saket . Have dinner in one of the big Lao riverside restaurants by the Mekong.

Day 10: Vientiane

Spend the morning visiting the National Museum and then take a drive around the city, being sure to pass the impressive but very Gallic Patuxai Monument . In the afternoon, visit Talat Sao Market to shop for special Lao fabric and jewelry, or even DVDs and computer games if that's what you fancy.

Day 11: Flight to Siem Reap

You could easily spend another week in Laos exploring the south of the country, but if you don't want to be hurried in Cambodia (and you really don't want to be hurried in Cambodia), it is time to employ aviation. Your destination is Siem Reap in Cambodia (both Lao Airlines and Vietnam Airlines fly this route). Arriving at lunchtime, once you have dumped your bags in your hotel head to the center of town around Psar Chas. Here you can kick back in any of the many restaurants, cafes, or pubs and get a feel for the place. Take a look around the market stocked with all kinds of handicrafts, clothing, and much more.

Day 12: Angkor Wat

Get up early and see the sunrise over Angkor Wat . It's a photographer's dream and a moment you won't forget. Then head over to Angkor Thom and the Bayon . There is nothing in the world quite like the glorious enigma of the Bayon. Check out the other sites around Angkor Thom and then head back into town for lunch. In the afternoon go to Ta Prohm , an overgrown and atmospheric place that makes the set of Raiders of the Lost Ark look pedestrian. As the sun starts to lower in the sky at about 2pm, head back to Angkor Wat to explore its many splendors. Don't forget to look out for the spectacular bas-relief sculptures and endless apsaras.

Day 13: Journey to Battambang

Today you're heading to the western town of Battambang. You can do this in one of two ways -- either by boat or by road. The boat journey is a bit of an adventure, especially in the dry season when the water is low, but the views of life along the banks of the Sangker River are fascinating. The bus is straightforward. Check in and relax at your hotel and in the evening, get a motodup to take you to the Riverside Balcony Bar, an atmospheric wooden building on the river with a huge veranda. After your riverside aperitif, head over to La Pomme d'Amour for dinner. It's an excellent place for hearty French provincial cooking.

Day 14: Battambang

There is not a lot to do in Battambang, but nevertheless it's a nice place to spend a day wandering down the old colonnaded streets and exploring the central market, which, unlike in Siem Reap, is a practical Cambodian affair with few concessions to tourists.

Day 15: Travel to Phnom Penh

Travel by bus to Phnom Penh, arriving about 4pm. Once you have checked in to your hotel head over to Sisowath Quay on the riverfront. Enjoy a margarita at Cantina, something tasty and French at La Croisette, or something overpriced but with a beautiful view at the FCC. When it comes to dining, Phnom Penh has a dizzying choice of venues serving food from every corner of the globe. Why not start with Khmer food? Malis on Norodom Boulevard serves artfully prepared Cambodian dishes from the kitchen of celebrated Cambodian chef Luu Meng.

Day 16: Phnom Penh

Take in some of Phnom Penh's numerous sites. Start with the Royal Palace and the National Museum . Then move on to Wat Phnom . In the afternoon, check out the Psar Toul Tom Poung, also known as the Russian Market. This vast complex sells just about everything you can think of and some things you never could. In the evening, cross the Tonle Sap to the Prek Leap district where you will find a succession of large traditional Khmer restaurants by the river. Many of them also have bands and singers playing often-melancholic traditional songs.

Day 17: History in Phnom Penh

To understand Cambodia's present, you have to understand the horrors of its recent past. Do not expect to enjoy your morning. First take a moto-taxi or tuk-tuk to the south of the city where you will find the Tuol Sleng or S21 Genocide museum. This is an overwhelming but necessary visit to make. It was here that the Khmer Rouge tortured and then slaughtered thousands of men, women, children, and infants. They photographed their victims meticulously before they killed them and thousands of the fading portraits are on view. The range of expressions is heartbreaking. You can then go to Choeung Ek, the Killing Fields, which was the principal place where these thousands upon thousands of people were systematically killed. In the afternoon, you can relax and be alone with your thoughts on a boat trip down the Mekong, watching life unfold along the riverbanks.

Days 18 & 19: Sihanoukville

Take the bus to the beaches of Sihanoukville, find a peaceful place to your liking, order a cold drink, break out the paperbacks, and relax.

Day 20: Kampot & Kep

Take a trip along the coast to Kep and Kampot. Sample the tasty seafood while in Kep. A well-known local specialty is Kep crab in Kampot pepper. It is a must-try.

Day 21: Back to Phnom Penh

Head back to Phnom Penh by bus and try to work out which restaurant, of the many superb and varied choices on offer, you will go to for your last supper. If you like genuine Spanish tapas and paella, try Pacharan near the Royal Palace. It is in a wonderful old French colonial building, with views of both the river and the Silver Pagoda.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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3 Weeks In Cambodia and Vietnam Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Cambodia is easily one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. It is most famous for its ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. While that is definitely a must-see in Cambodia, many people don’t know that Cambodia is also home to beautiful beaches and also holds a very dark history.

Vietnam is probably known today for its war in 1970, but apart from that, it is also home to world-class coffee farms, motorbike destinations, and of course, tasty local dishes. It is a famous destination for young backpackers for its affordability and ease of travel.

In this article, I will show you a sample of 3 weeks in Cambodia and Vietnam itinerary. I will give you an idea of how many days to spend in each top destination in both countries, how to get to each place and other travel tips for your holiday here.

Of course, you don’t need to follow my itinerary religiously, just want to give you a visual idea to help you write and plan your own .

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM

Before we get to the juicy part, let’s first talk logistics and basic planning. I know many of you are like me and have limited annual holidays, so I want to make sure this destination is suitable for the type of vacation you need. I will also explain why combining Cambodia and Vietnam on this trip is a good idea.

Why Cambodia and Vietnam

While it’s pretty easy to spend 3 weeks in Vietnam, Cambodia is a bit smaller and 21 days can be too much. I personally believe that combining two places will maximise your use of your holiday, which is our main goal on this site.

Vietnam and Cambodia share a land border, making it easy to hop between the two countries. In this itinerary, though, I recommend you fly as it will save you time and is very affordable.

Cambodia and Vietnam also experienced a tragic war during the 70s, the war in both countries are also somehow related. If you want, you can also plan for 3 weeks in Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam .

If you travelling all the way from North and Latin America, that will be a significantly long journey, I want to make sure that you are making the long-haul flight worth the trip.

In Cambodia, you will get to explore the world-famous Angkor Wat, see the luminous plankton, and ride Battambang’s popular bamboo train. At the same time, Vietnam will showcase the beauty of Halong Bay, Sa Pa, and the historic city of Hanoi. Angkor Wat and Halong Bay are on the UNESCO World Heritage Centre list.

When is the best time to go to Cambodia

November to February is a good time to go to Cambodia. During this time, the temperature is much cooler and less rain. However, it is also the time when most tourists come. This means the crowd can be bigger, lines longer, and booking tour tickets (especially for Ankot Wat) must be done in advance. Some services like accommodations and flights may also be more expensive during this time.

If you don’t mind the rain, May to October is the rainy season. While not until September that the rain pours non-stop. Between March to May, it can be very hot and going outside or doing anything during the day can really be uncomfortable.

When is the best time to go to Vietnam

For this 3-week holiday, I will be focusing on the Northern part. Vietnam, even though in Southeast Asia, experienced four seasons, especially in the north. Hence, it’s important for you to know when to visit Vietnam to make sure you get to enjoy your holiday without weather conflict.

October to November or February to March is the best time to visit Vietnam. There’s very little chance of rain, and the temperature is bearable. You should also look up “Tet holiday”. And avoid coming to Vietnam during this time.

It is the Lunar New Year (the dates change every year, but happens between the end of January to the end of February), and it lasts for nearly 2 weeks. Every airport, bus station, and hotel will be booked and busy. Many restaurants and tourist sites will be closed as well.

However, if you come from December to January, it can be very cold in this area, requiring you a decent winter jacket. You should avoid coming between April to May, it is the hottest time of the year. In contrast, June until September is the rainy season.

Visa in Cambodia and Vietnam

Cambodia is one of the few countries that have straightforward visa rules (which I really love). Unless your passport is from Southeast Asia (which gets a free visa), you only need to apply for an evisa online or get a visa upon arrival.

Foreign visitors of Vietnam can also apply for an evisa online . It’s valid for 30 days to 90 days. A 30-day evisa cannot be renewed, but a 30-day to 90-day visa on arrival can be renewed.

The fee is about $25-$35 , depending on which port you are entering from, and the visa is valid for 30 days. When sending the application online, make sure that you have the dates right, your flight number, port of entry, a digital passport photo, bank card for payment, address of your first hotel, and personal information.

The processing time can take between 3-7 business days (excluding weekends). So, if you submit at Friday afternoon, you might have to wait until the next Friday. But if you submit it on Monday, you should get your evisa before the end of the week.

The rest of the world, except Africa, the Middle East, and some South Asian countries, need to apply for a visa in advance. While most of Latin, North America, Europe, Central Asia, and Oceania can apply for an evisa valid of 30 days.

Currency in Cambodia and Vietnam

While Cambodia has their own currency called Cambodian Riel, US Dollar is more common here and cash is still the king. Whether you are paying for a hotel room, taxi, restaurant, or street vendor – you can pay with USD. While that sounds pretty good, Cambodia doesn’t use pennies or coins. This means, that almost everything that is sold on the street cost $1 and if your total bill in a restaurant is $2.50, you will be paying $3.

You can still use Riel, but ATM spits out USD, which would mean converting your USD into Riel.

Vietnam uses Vietnamese Dong, which is about $1=22,000 VND. Vietnam doesn’t use coins and the biggest current is 500,000 VND which is about $25. When booking tours and paying for hotels, you should be able to use USD, GBP, and Euro – but in shops and on the streets, you have to use VND. There are many currency exchange shops all over the country, however, many ATMs will only spit out $150-$200 at a time.

Plan in advance

If you are coming during peak season, it’s vital that you plan in advance. For example, tickets to Angkor Wat are limited per day to keep the area monitored and preserved. Hotels will also be booked up early and only the bad and expensive ones are left available.

During typhoon season, flights get delayed or cancelled. Not to mention the traffic, if you plan on taking land transportation, you should put allowance in case you get stuck in traffic or your transportation get cancelled or delayed. 3 weeks in Cambodia fly quickly for people on limited holiday, you don’t want to waste any of it due to misplanning.

Getting around Cambodia and Vietnam

The most common way to get around Cambodia is to take a domestic flight or bus. Within the city, tuk-tuks are the most common mode of transportation. But before you hop in, let the driver know where you are going and agree on the price to avoid hassle or overcharge.

On the other hand, getting around Vietnam is much easier. There is plenty of app for ride-hailing to use, Grab is the most popular, followed by GoViet, GoJek, and Be. When you use these apps, you can either pay by cash or set up your car. You can also choose between booking a car or a motorbike.

COVID in Cambodia

Cambodia has an over 80% vaccination rate among its population as of the first quarter of 2022 and gets an average of 20 cases a day. While booster shot campaigns are also ongoing. Cambodia opened their borders to vaccinated tourists. While the government thought this bordering opening will rush tourists back in, that didn’t happen. But this is mostly due to a lack of flights and the Omicron wave.

Personally, if you have the means, are vaccinated, follow entry requirements , and will take precautions to avoid spreading the virus, I recommend you visit Cambodia. With fewer tourists, this time will be the best time to visit Angkor Wat with no big crowd.

COVID in Vietnam

Vietnam shut its border in March 2020 and is yet to open to tourists. The government announced in November 2021 that they are targeting Mary or June 2022 as the main opening of the international border. The policies change quite often and it will depend on the COVID situation.

The country itself is about 80% vaccinated and booster shots are also on the way. However, it is currently suffering from an omicron variant.

MUST-SEE PLACES IN CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM (pinned map)

Click the top right corner to enlarge the map. Credit: Map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN CAMBODIA AND VIETNAM ITINERARY

Now, to the fun part! In this itinerary for Cambodia, I will be covering Siem Reap, Battambang, and Sihanoukville. Then, we will take a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam to explore Halong Bay, Sa Pa, and the other popular destinations in the north.

We also have an itinerary for 3 weeks in Cambodia and 3 weeks in Vietnam itinerary .

Siem Reap and Krong Battambang for 6 days

Siem Reap has a popular international airport, so flying in here shouldn’t be a problem. The first thing I recommend you do is to plan your visit to Angkor Wat. Because it is being preserved, tickets are sold in limited for daily visits to keep the area in order. Spend your first-day buying a ticket or booking a tour if you haven’t done so. Once that’s on the books, it’s easier to relax knowing you won’t miss visiting this major attraction.

It is common to book a tour of Angkor Wat for 2 days. It’s a massive place and if you want to cover the entire area, spending 2 days is a good plan to not rush yourself.

Must-see places in Siem Reap

• Angkor Wat – book a full-day sunrise tour or 2-day tour sunrise or 2-day sunrise and sunset tour
• Angkor Thum/Thom
•  Bayon Temple
• Ta Prohm Temple
• Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village or Kompong Phluk Floating Village
• Angkor National Museum
• Join a food tour or cooking class
• Phnom Kulen Waterfall

Must-see places in Battambang

Battambang is only a 3-hour drive from Siem Reap. Most people don’t plan on staying in Battambang and simply book a day trip from Siem Reap.

• Ride the Bamboo Train – you can book a tour that leaves from Siem Reap
• Well of Shadows
• Wat Samrong Knong
• The Killing Cave
• Phnom Banan Temple
• Killing Field at Wat Samrong Knong

Accommodations in Siem Reap

• Affordable: The Twitz Hostel or Lub d Hostel or Siem Reap Chilled Backpacker or Mad Monkey Hostel
• Mid-range: Central Corner Suite or The Urban or Home Indochine D’angkor Hotel
• Luxury: Two Seasons Hotel or Angkor Village Hotel or Memoire d’Angkor Boutique Hotel or Bayon Modern Residences

Phnom Penh for 2 days

To get from Phnom Penh from Siem Reap, you can either take a 5.5-hour bus ride or a 30-minute flight (but the bus is much cheaper). Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and sits right next to the famous Mekong River.

While there are many places to see here, most tourists come to the capital to learn more about the war and genocide that lasted from 1975 to 1979 with estimated death of 1.5-2 million. There are plenty of guided tours and places to visit to better understand what happened during the war.

Must-see places in Phnom Penh

• Royal Palace
• Killling Fields/Choeung Ek Genocide Centre
• S-21 Prison/Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – you can book a combined tour for S-21 and Killing Fields
• Join a city tour or city tour and Mekong River boat trip

Accommodations in Phnom Penh

• Affordable: Villa Papillon or Mad Monkey Hostel or The Big Easy Hostel
• Mid-range: Ohana Palace Hotel or Aquarius Hotels & Urban Resort or Vacation Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: Sun & Moon Riverside Hotel or Citadines Flatiron or Glow Park Hotel or Plantation Urban Resort & Spa

Sihanoukville and Koh Rong for 3 days

Sihanoukville and Koh Rong is Cambodia’s pride when it comes to stunning beaches. It is located about 5 hours from Phnom Penh by bus. Sihanoukville is filled with resorts casinos. While I believe Sihanoukville is a charming beach town, I recommend you spend more time in Koh Rong especially if you want to do some boat trips.

Must-see places in Sihanoukville and Koh Rong

• Queenco Hotel and Casino – if you want to play some games
• Independence Beach
• Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem – they are 2 different islands but right next to each other
• Bioluminescent Plankton snorkel tour (Koh Rong Samloem)

Accommodations in Sihanoukville

• Affordable to Mid-range: Manoha Villa or Om Home or Villa Blue Lagoon or Onederz Hostel
• Luxury: Queenco Hotel & Casino or Independence Hotel Resort & Spa or Star Bay Residences

Hanoi for 2 days

Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam, you can directly fly here from either Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville, Cambodia. The airport is about an hour away, it’s easier to book an airport transfer in advance than discuss the meter with a taxi or book through a ride-hailing app.

Not only it’s filled with history, and a great location if you want to explore the northern part of the country. Many people who have travelled here would say that Hanoi is more traditional than Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), it may be true since there’s a light curfew or life and businesses kind of dies at midnight.

In just 2 days, you can easily explore the city itself and have extra time in planning your trips around the area. You can get a hop-on hop-off bus ticket for an easy way to get around the city.

Must-see places in Hanoi

• Ho Chi Minh’s body at the Mausoleum
• Traditional Puppet Show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
• Ngoc Son Temple/Turtle Tower
• Hoa Lo Prison
• Hanoi Opera House
• Enjoy a morning bike tour
• Temple Of Literature
• Hanoi Old Quarter – especially at night
• Learn how to do pottery at the ancient village
• Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square – right by the Old Quarter
• Join a street food tour on a cycle or street food by foot

Accommodations in Hanoi

• Affordable: Hanoi City Backpackers Hostel or Classic Street Hotel or Golden Sun Hotel
• Mid-range: Oriana Boutique Hotels & Restaurant or La Passion Hotel and Spa or San Palace Hotel
• Luxury: Babylon Premium Hotel & Spa or Acoustic Hotel & Spa or Peridot Grand Luxury

Halong Bay for 2 days

Halong Bay sits a 2-hour drive from Hanoi to the east. Normally, you will be picked up from your hotel in Hanoi as early as 6 in the morning, it is usually reached by bus or van. Once in the town, tourists get on a boat (either to head to another island or boat where they will sleep or spend the entire day).

3 weeks in Cambodia and Vietnam should definitely include Halong Bay in your travel plan. Here’s a list of different options for a boat trip to Halong Bay, visitors often book a day trip or spend a night or two:

• Day tour of Halong Bay from Hanoi – visiting caves, and islands, and enjoying kayak
• Spend 2 days in Halong Bay
• Book 3 days in Halong Bay

Sa Pa for 2 days

Sa Pa is a small town up in the north near the Chinese border. It’s about a 6-7-hour drive by bus, minivan, or train. It is the location of the famous rice fields of Vietnam is home to Hmong Tribe. If you don’t have a lot of time, you can book a tour that leaves at midnight from Hanoi, get to Sa Pa and spend the entire day, then head back to Hanoi at night.

Some travellers would plan to stay a night or two in Sa Pa to enjoy hiking, learning about the Hmong Tribe, and the history of these beautiful rice fields. I recommend you not to plan a trip here for December to January as it can be very cold, the fields are muddy, and the visibility is quite poor.

• Book a 2-day trip to Sapa with trekking and bus ride
• Spend 3 nights in Sapa with trek and overnight train ride
• Fansipan – the highest point in Indochina, you can reach it by multiple-day hiking or cable car

Accommodations in Sapa

• Affordable: Flaco Hostel or Mega View Homestay or Surelee Homestay
• Mid-range: SaPa Retreat Condotel or SaPa Pinehill Lodge or Sapa Relax Hotel & Spa
• Luxury: Pao’s Leisure Hotel or Laxsik Ecolodge

Day trips from Hanoi

If you have some time to kill before you leave Vietnam, you can book these popular day trips from Hanoi. Day trips mean you will be picked up early in the morning and spend the entire day exploring then will be back in Hanoi sometime in the evening.

• Tam Coc, Hoa Lu, and Mua Caves
• Trang An, Hoa Lu, and Mua Caves

Vietnam and Cambodia are such a great combination to spend your holiday. Both places offer an insight into the 70s war, both places have stunning UNESCO Heritage Sites that are must-see, and both places are so near each other. Hopping between these two countries will save you time.

I hope that you found this itinerary of 3 weeks in Cambodia and Vietnam helpful. If you prefer to start in Vietnam and end in Cambodia, that shouldn’t be a problem, you can also skip Sihanoukville and Koh Rong to free up 3 days in your itinerary.

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Cambodia Travel Itineraries – From 3 Days to 1 Month

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We have created a no fluff Cambodia travel itinerary for every time budget ranging from 3 days to 4 weeks.

In 2023, we visited Cambodia for two weeks. For our Cambodia travel blog, we have compiled no fluff Cambodia backpacking routes and itineraries for every time limit possible:

3 Day Cambodia Itinerary

Even if you only have 3 days in Cambodia, you can spend:

• 1 day in Siem Reap
• 1 day in Phnom Penh

It’s the bare minimum of time you need to see the highlights of Cambodia.

You have to allow for around 6 hours of travel time between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh .

Siem Reap Itinerary

Most travellers come to Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat. You can either buy a 1 day pass or a 3 day pass.

The two main ways to see Angkor Wat are the “Small Circuit” and the “Large Circuit”. Travellers tend to choose the small circuit when they only have one day to see Angkor Wat. They do the large circuit on day two when they bought a 3-day pass to the temples.

Phnom Penh Itinerary

You can visit the major highlights of Phnom Penh in just one day:

• Killing Fields

If you have more time, we recommend you also check out

• the Royal Palace
• markets like Central Market, Russian Market or Night Market
• temples like Wat Phnom
• the riverside walk

5 Day Cambodia Itinerary

If you have 5 days in Cambodia, you can spend

• 3 days on an island

If you use your night bus journeys right, you can see the highlights of Cambodia in 5 days and relax on an island of your liking.

Cambodian Islands

You can reach the best Cambodian islands by boat from Sihanoukville:

• Koh Rong is the largest and most famous island in Cambodia
• Koh Rong Samloem is a backpacker paradise
• Koh Ta Kiev gives you Robinson Crusoe Feelings

7 Day Cambodia Itinerary

For your 1 week in Cambodia itinerary, we suggest taking the 5 day itinerary but doing it less rushed. Maybe spend an extra day in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, or on the islands. If you feel particularly restless, you can also add in a second Cambodian island.

10 Day Cambodia Itinerary

If you have 10 days in Cambodia, you can add Kampot and Kep to your itinerary.

Kampot Itinerary

If you have one day in Kampot, you should visit:

• Bokor National Park
• A pepper farm

If you have more time in Kampot, you can also

• Visit the salt fields of Fish Island
• Go kayaking
• Day trip to Kep

The highlights of Kep are:

• The crab market
• Koh Tonsay or Rabbit Island
• Kep National Park

2 Week Cambodia Itinerary

If you have 2 weeks in Cambodia, you can add Battambang to your itinerary.

Battambang Itinerary

Battambang is most famous for its Bamboo Train but it’s also a nice small town with a relaxed vibe.

3 Week Cambodia Itinerary

Disclaimer: We have only spent two weeks in Cambodia so the two following itineraries are based on recommendations and not on personal experience:

For a Cambodia 3 weeks itinerary, we would add Kratie. It’s the only place left in the world where you can still see Irrawaddy dolphins.

Kratie can be combined with:

• Kompong Cham (a colonial city on the banks of the Mekong River)
• Banlung (crater lake and waterfalls)

1 Month Cambodia Itinerary

If you want to take advantage of your complete 30 day Cambodia visa, there are two more places we have heard about:

• Chi Phat (ecotourism, but check the reviews )
• Koh Ker (untouristy ruins)

Of course, you can always just spend longer in one place or visit various islands if you want to spend a whole month in Cambodia.

We explain how to get from one destination to another here:

Create Your Perfect Vietnam Cambodia Laos Itinerary

Customisable Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos itinerary. 1 - 3 months, including all highlights and public transport options.

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3 Week Cambodia Itinerary: The best of Cambodia in 3 Weeks

Cambodia is probably best known for its ancient temples, Angkor Wat being the most famous. But there´s a lot more to this country, from historical sites around Angkor to tropical beach escapes in Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem, and from the bustling city of Phnom Penh to sleepy riverside towns like Kampot. If you´re going to explore Angkor Wat, it´s worth tagging on a couple of weeks to explore the rest of the country. I´ve put together a 3 week Cambodia itinerary based on our trip around the country, with plenty of tips on what to visit and how to get around.

It’s a combination of temple touring (you obviously can’t miss Angkor Wat ), cities, smaller towns and a beautiful island beach break.

Day 1 – 5: Siem Reap (for Angkor Wat)

Fly into Siem Reap from Bangkok (Bangkok Airways flies several times a day, we were brave and chose Cambodia Angkor Air. Aside from being an hour delayed, no complaints). Angkor Wat is impressive enough to warrant a three day pass, which you can use on any three days within a week. I recommend taking a day off in between so you don’t get temple fatigue. There is plenty to do around Siem Reap: go on a boat tour of the markets, visit the landmine museum , take a cooking class or simply bike around the rice fields and nearby villages.

Take a look at my post on 4 days in Siem Rea p and my Angkor Wat Basics Guide for more details.

Day 6-8: Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a fascinating city, albeit with a sad history. Its most visited sights, the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as S21 prison) tell the story of the Khmer Rouge era of Cambodia in the 1970s, when over 1.6 million Cambodians were killed in a regime of terror. These sights are sombering, so you should come mentally prepared. Take a walk along the river afterwards to reflect and come back to the Pnomh Penh of today. You can easily spend two to three days exploring the monuments, wandering the markets or just strolling along the river.

Phnom Penh has a nice foodie scene as well. In the evenings, I highly recommend trying some of the great eateries the city has to offer. Friends was my favourite, but restaurants like Romdeng and The Lost Room also get raving reviews.

Day 9 – 10: Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville splits travellers into two camps: Those who hate it and those who love it. It’s a bit seedy, the beaches can be packed, and plastic along some of the beaches has become an increasing problem in the last couple of years. But on the upside, you can spend a nice couple of days going for beach walks or just lying on the beach, eating fresh fruit that the vendors will happily serve you right by your lounge chair, and partaking in one of the many barbecues that happen on Serendipity Beach every night.

There are two other key reasons to spend time in Snooky, as the insiders call it: one, the Vietnamese Embassy in Sihanoukville is one of the fastest and cheapest in Asia (and probably worldwide) to get a Vietnam visa if that is your next destination. And two, Sihanoukville is a gateway to the best islands Cambodia has to offer.

Day 11 – 15: Koh Rong Samloem or Koh Rong

From Sihanoukville, head out to the islands of the Koh Rong Archipel. If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and a bit of party, Koh Rong is for you. If you want complete relaxation, head to Koh Rong Samloem , where you’ll find beautiful beaches, millions of crabs, a random herd of water buffalo, and a growing selection of boutique resorts and guest houses.

Life here is basic, but sometimes basic is perfect. There’s nothing more beautiful than taking a long walk on an empty beach. If you do need a bit more action, you can also go diving, snorkeling or kayaking from the island.

Day 16: Sihanoukville

Because you’ll likely get back to the mainland from Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem in the evening, you’ll make your life easier by staying in Sihanoukville for another night. After the secluded and quiet islands, it will seem like New York City at rush hour, but all will be good after grabbing a banana pancake and watching the sunset on Serendipity Beach.

Day 16-17: Kampot

Leave the coast to experience this quaint little town on the river. Kampot, famous for its pepper plantations, is a mix of colonial French architecture with Cambodian traditions and, I kid you not, a gigantic durian statue. Luckily they didn’t make it smell authentic.

In Kampot, visit the pepper plantations, try one of the famous Kampot pepper dishes or have some cocktails on the river. You can also hire a scooter and drive up to nearby Bokor Mountain, where you’ll find waterfalls that are popular weekend destinations of the locals, and an abandoned casino experienced heavy fighting during the war. Insider tip: Don’t drive up there with a half empty tank, or even better, a leaky tank (the way we did). Let your hotel or scooter provider explain to you exactly where to fill up your tank on the way up to ensure you make it back without having to walk. Sarah and Tom from TripGourmets have some great tips on things to do in Kampot .

Day 18 – 20: Kep

Back to the beach! Kep was the favourite holiday spot of wealthy Cambodians before the Khmer Rouge era. It was mostly abandoned, and the many mansions and holiday retreats with everything inside them was sold off when people fled from the Khmer Rouge. Today, it is slowly being rebuilt and is becoming popular again with both Khmers and foreign tourists.

My favourite spot was the Kep crab market , where you can buy fresh crab and other seafood straight from the source and have it cooked for you on the spot if you want to eat right there.

Have more time?

If you have more time, you can easily extend this Cambodia itinerary. Between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, you could throw in a stop in Battambang and go on a thrilling ride on the Bamboo railway .

There’s also plenty to do in Phnom Penh to extend your stay there.

If you want more island adventures, you could spend more time in both Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem or head to Rabbit Island from Kep.

Getting Around in Cambodia

Cambodia doesn´t have a rail network like neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, so the easiest way to get around the country is by bus. Check out our post on two of the main bus providers, Giant Ibis and Mekong Express, for details on this experience. Tickets can usually be bought directly at the bus stations, through your accommodation or even online. If you´re looking for a comfortable ride, it pays to shop around and do your research on the best providers. Even the “VIP” busses can vary greatly between providers. Giant Ibis has gotten a reputation for being the best option over the last few years, becoming very popular with foreign travelers.

If you´re short on time and covering a long distance, you can also fly between the main cities of Pnomh Pen and Siem Reap, and Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Whilst we traveled only by bus / tuk tuk within Cambodia, we did fly in from Bangkok to Siem Reap with Cambodia Angkor Air, the national flag carrier of Cambodia. We found both flights and busses to be reasonably reliable, although you should always plan in for a couple of hours of delay – road works or additional passenger pick ups can sometimes slow down even the VIP buses.

Any questions about your Cambodia itinerary?

If you need any help with building your itinerary for Cambodia, leave me a comment with your questions and I’ll try to help.

Note: This post was originally published in 2015 and last updated in September 2019 with new info.

8 thoughts on “ 3 Week Cambodia Itinerary: The best of Cambodia in 3 Weeks ”

Hi, How did you travel between places? Mainly busses? Or any flights you took to save time?

We mainly traveled on busses, yes. The only exception was Bangkok to Siem Reap, we flew there with Cambodian Angkor Air. If you wanted to do one less bus journey, I would fly Siem Reap to Phnom Penh as well as that was a full day on the bus. All other journeys on our itinerary weren’t long enough to make a flight worth it, both in terms of time and money.

After leaving Cambodia, we took a bus from Kep to Can Tho in Vietnam, and that’s one bus journey I would never want to do again, so I would recommend either doubling back to Phnom Penh and flying out from there, or just taking a minibus over the border to Ha Tien and catching a ferry to Phu Quoc island from there. From Phu Quoc you can fly to wherever it is you want to go next.

Hope that helps!

Am I correct in assuming that the traveling day is the first day of each destination ? e.g Day 6 is the day you travel from Siem Reap to PP ?

I will be arriving and departing from PP but that is fine as I don’t want to visit Siem Reap as I have already seen Angkor Wat. So I would start my itinerary on day 6 in PP.

I will be traveling alone and was wondering if I really need 5 nights on Koh Rong and was also wondering where the best area to stay is where there is likely to be a little activity with a restaurant or two and maybe a bar.

Thanks though for what looks like a great itinerary that would suit my needs well

Yes, the first day is always the arrival day / travel day. You definitely don’t need 5 nights on the islands, if you’re not a beach person or simply don’t have that much time to travel. But I did enjoy the five nights and didn’t get bored. If you’re looking for a bit more activity, Koh Rong Island may be better for you than Koh Rong Samloem, which is the one we went to. Koh Rong is a little more built up. Or, if you’re going to Koh Rong Samloem, stay on the Saracen Bay side, which has several little resorts that all have a bar/restaurant, so there will be more activity than on the other side of the island.

Enjoy Cambodia!!

Thanks for the information. I’m still working on my itinerary and may skip the islands altogether. I’m not too concerned about lack of activity but as I live in Bermuda I am not too bothered one way or another with a beach visit ! I may add Battambang instead . Just trying to work out the best order to visit after spending a few days in Phnom Penh. Maybe Battambang first then Sihanoukville, Kampot and Kep before returning to Phnom Penh.

I see there is now a train at weekends running from Sihanoukville to PP via Kampot. That sounds interesting !

Thanks again

Sounds like a good itinerary, Kevin! We skipped Battambang because we simply didn’t have time for everything, but if you’re not that bothered about beaches, substituting Battambang instead of Koh Rong Samloem sounds like a great plan.

The train wasn’t running yet when we traveled Cambodia, but I’ve heard great things about it and it would probably be my transport option of choice if I went now. There’s tons of info on the train on this site, might be helpful: http://www.movetocambodia.com/transportation/cambodia-trains/

Hi! I was thinking of starting in Phnom Penh and making my way up! Any advice for that?

Assuming you wanted to visit the same places we visited, you could take a bus from Phnom Penh down to Kampot / Kep (they are only a tuk tuk drive away from each other). From there, next stop would be Sihanoukville, then a ferry ride over to Koh Rong Samloem or Koh Rong, back to Sihanoukville, and from there up to Siem Reap (for Angkor Wat).

The only challenge would be that Sihanoukville to Siem Reap is a long distance. You could either take a night bus, or take an internal flight.

This leaves you in Siem Reap at the end of the journey, and you can either add on Battambang, another popular destination in Cambodia and close to Siem Reap, or continue onwards / fly home from Siem Reap, which has an international airport.

Hope that helps 🙂

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Home » Southeast Asia » Cambodia » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Cambodia Travel Guide (BUDGET TIPS • 2024)

Cambodia is a captivating country, rich in culture, history, and architecture.

When backpacking Cambodia you’ll stumble across breathtaking beaches, incredible temples, beautiful islands and delicious Khmer food. It’s a magical land where you can buy a beer for 25 cents, a bed for a dollar and a tasty restaurant meal for just a couple of bucks.

Many people backpack Cambodia to see the miraculous Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, but Cambodia is more than just temples, beaches, cheap food, parties, and alcohol. The country has a dark past, with 1.5 – 3 million people killed in the Khmer Rouge, led by tyrant Pol Pot. It happened only 35 – 40 years ago and is still very fresh and raw to the Cambodian people.

Despite the tragic history, the local Khmer people are some of the kindest humans in the world. The country is still recuperating, rebuilding, and moving forward; however, corruption is hindering its rehabilitation. It’s one of my favourite Southeast Asian destinations; I loved it so much that I ended up overstaying my visa. Cambodia seriously has it all, see it for yourself & you’ll fall in love too.

With this travel guide for Cambodia in hand, you’ll have everything that you’ll need to experience this amazing country. You’ll know what to do, where to go, and where stay in Cambodia after reading this guide. Listen well, broke backpackers, and you’re sure to have a good time here!

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Why Go Backpacking in Cambodia?

Filled with many vibrant areas and places to stay , Cambodia is an incredibly diverse country for its landmass. Absolute highlights include the world wonder, Angkor Wat , island hopping around  Koh Rong , and exploring Cambodia’s cities on two wheels. Make sure to get out in the countryside to get a taste of the local, rural life!

We’ve included a couple off the beaten path destinations, small villages, and remote hikes in our guide! Read on!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Cambodia

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The itinerary below depicts some of the best spots that you can explore whilst backpacking Cambodia. If you want to save time and accommodation, I’d recommend getting a night bus to travel long distances, like Sihanoukville to Siem Reap.

There are a lot of backpacker routes, which typically include Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Kampot. However, there are many more awesome places to check out when backpacking Cambodia.

Follow our Cambodia travel guide to find these secret hidden gems!

Backpacking Cambodia 3-Week Itinerary: The Highlights

This itinerary will cover Cambodia’s most popular destinations, as well as a few of my favourite hidden gems. It is possible to complete this backpacker route in either direction! Many people start in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap depending on their flight.

You can also combine this itinerary with a trip to Vietnam or Thailand!

We’re going to start with a trip to Phnom Penh – the capital city – however, it’s with a bit of a low. If you are going to be backpacking Cambodia, you should know about the dark and turbulent recent history, so visit the S-21 Prison & the Killing Fields while you’re here. You can also shoot an AK47, M16, RPG at a firing range. Not exactly uplifting, but definitely a unique experience.

Afterward, head to Kampot is a quaint riverside town located at the base of the Elephant Mountains. You can explore the town by bicycle, check out the French colonial architecture and indulge in delicious food.

Next, head to the coast and find a place to stay in Sihanoukville . Sihanoukville is a party area and gateway to explore the breathtaking islands. While Koh Rong has become more developed, Koh Rong Samloem remains a laidback getaway.

After some fun in the sun, head to Battambang to get a taste of genuine Cambodian life. Visit the crumbling temples, caves, the bamboo train and quaint little villages. Finally, end your trip in Siem Reap . While touristy, there is plenty to do here, like visiting the legendary Angkor Wat and Banteay Chhmar.

Below are my favorite destinations in Cambodia, complete with helpful information on what to see, do, and where to stay!

Backpacking Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a busy, happening city, home to the spectacular Royal Palace and nestled right on the Mekong River. The city is wonderfully affordable; you can find the cheapest accommodation in the southern and central areas of Phnom Penh .

The city has risen from the ashes of the Khmer Rouge, led by tyrant Pol Pot. It’s important to visit S-21 Prison and the Killing Fields while you’re in Phnom Penh, to get a proper understanding of the country you are travelling through. For those of you who glimpse the evidence of genocide and mutter “this would never happen back home” it is important to note that both the US and UK governments supported the Khmer Rouge with weapons and supplies in an effort to destabilise neighbouring Vietnam.

Both S-21 Prison & the Killing Fields have a somber feel, be prepared for a unique, heavy and heartbreaking experience and please remember to be respectful! A tuk tuk to the S-21 prison, killing fields and back to the city should cost around $8, which can be split between 4 people.

It is also worth visiting the National Museum, Independence monument, and the Silver Pagoda if you’re in Phnom Penh whilst backpacking Cambodia. For shopping head to the Central Market to browse (not to buy, prices here are inflated!) and the Russian Market for pirated DVDs, CDs and fake designer clothes.

Whilst in Phnom Penh you can also visit one of the many firings ranges to shoot an AK47, M16, RPG or anything else that takes your fancy. You can shoot heavy machine guns, throw a grenade or blow a target away with a desert eagle; all for a price.

If you’re backpacking Cambodia in November, try to tie in visiting Phnom Penh with the Water Festival. It’s one of the largest festivals in Cambodia and the city comes alive with a carnival atmosphere during this period. It does get busy during this period, however, so make sure that you book a hostel in Phnom Penh in advance.

Backpacking Kampot and Kep

Kampot is a quaint riverside town located at the base of the Elephant Mountains. You can explore the town by bicycle, check out the French colonial architecture and indulge in delicious food. If you love Italian food you need to visit the rustic street food restaurant ‘Ciao’. It’s cheap, authentic and made from scratch!

The sunset cruise is a great way to spend the evening, cruising along the river with the fireflies & watching the sunset. Nearby is the Arcadia waterpark, where you can spend the day getting drunk, sliding into the river, jumping off inflatables and kayaking. Entry is $5 each or free if you stay at Arcadia Hostel.

Drive past and stop at the pepper plantations and salt fields before travelling to Kep . It’s a 35-minute drive and you can have a dip in the ocean as soon as you arrive! Kep is home to a beautiful national park with a trek known as the “Stairway to Heaven”. The trail leads to an incredible view and pagoda at the top of the hill.

Backpacking Sihanoukville and Otres Beach

Sihanoukville is a party town and gateway to explore the breathtaking islands when backpacking Cambodia. The coastline is dominated by long stretches of beach and a stunning waterfall nearby. Otres Beach is far south of town and is the main hangout for backpackers who want to relax on the beach during the day and party at night.

There’s a mixture of cheap bungalows, chill guesthouses, fancy resorts, and funky backpacker hostels in Sihanoukville as well as the Otres area. Otres has a great backpacker vibe, so if you’re sticking around for a few days either before or after visiting the islands, I’d recommend staying around the Otres area.

Backpacking Koh Rong

If you’re looking to find the best parties in Cambodia, then Koh Rong is the place for you. Development of the island has negatively impacted the charm and chilled out vibe of Koh Rong, particularly around the Koh Touch area. Although some parts of the island are extremely touristic, a large area is still covered by dense forest and you can still find secluded laid back spots on the island.

The backpacking scene in Koh Rong is home to the best parties in Cambodia, particularly around Koh Touch. Here you’ll find DJs, live music, BBQs, and one hell of a party. Nights tend to escalate here, next minute you’re 3 buckets deep, skinny dipping in the ocean and have to run back to your hostel half-naked because someone stole your clothes…

That’s a normal night out, so you can only imagine the craziness during the full moon parties. This is a great party area when backpacking Cambodia, however, it’s not the best place on the island to chill during the day.

You shouldn’t swim at some beaches, as it’s not safe due to the wastewater being pumped out into the ocean. If you go to the bathroom at a restaurant on some beaches, you can literally see the pipes that run from the restaurant into the ocean. Although more and more guesthouses, hostels, bars and restaurants continue to pop up, they’ve yet to solve the islands waste management.

You can still find laid back and somewhat secluded area’s on Koh Rong, like Sok San Beach, Coconut Beach and Palm Beach. The beaches here are absolutely breathtaking, filled with coral reefs, marine life and the fluorescent plankton at night. It’s a great place to relax, sunbake, snorkel and a poplar dive spot too.

Ferries to Koh Rong run regularly from Sihanoukville and Koh Rong Samloem daily. Make sure you visit an ATM prior to arriving, as there’s no ATMs  on the island. If you do get stuck & run out of money, you can borrow money against your passport from Bong’s bar, however you have to pay an extra 10% on top of what you borrowed.

Backpacking Koh Rong Sanloem

Koh Rong Sanloem (or sometimes Koh Rong Samloem) is what Koh Rong was about 10 years ago, before the negative impact of tourism and development. This is the one place I’d recommend everyone go when they travel to Cambodia.

The island is still fairly untouched, with only a few resort options on the island. The majority of the island is covered by dense jungle, so there are no roads and the only option to explore the island is by hiking. You can get a boat to other beaches around the island if you don’t feel like hiking.

Ferries frequently run to Koh Rong Samloem from Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. They drop you off at Saracen Bay, it’s the most touristic part of the island and so I’d recommend leaving there as soon as possible. However, it’s one of the only parts of the island that has Wi-Fi.

Make sure you check out Lazy Beach and Sunset Beach while you’re on the island. They’re two of my favourite spots that make you feel like you’re living totally off the grid, in a tropical paradise. There isn’t much of a social backpacking scene on these parts of the island, so if you’re looking to relax, socialize and party at night, then visit Mad Monkey Hostel . They have a free boat, which coincides with the ferry dropping you off at Saracen Bay.

You can fish, swim, snorkel, island hop, and dive on Koh Rong Samloem. At night be mesmerised by the luminous trails the phytoplankton leave behind. This island is pure bliss and I’d come back in a heartbeat!

Backpacking Battambang

Battambang is an awesome place to visit whilst backpacking Cambodia. You get a true taste of genuine Cambodian life by visiting the crumbling temples, caves, bamboo train, and quaint little villages.

It’s a little bit more touristic than I imagined, however, the countryside is utterly beautiful. This is a great ‘off the beaten path’ destination and it makes sense to head here, hire a motorbike, and then just explore.

The main attraction here is the bamboo train, which takes you along a railway to a small village. Be aware of the children from the village. You think they’re just being friendly when they tell you information about the place (without asking); they will demand money from you when you leave for their “service”.

Backpacking Siem Reap

If you’re backpacking Cambodia then you’ll most likely be stopping off in Siem Reap, one of the best places to stay in Cambodia. It’s the main tourist destination and is visited by over one million people who’re travelling to Cambodia every year.

Majority of people who travel to Cambodia come to visit the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat dubbed the most incredible man-made piece of architecture. The ruins here are really impressive, however, I personally prefer the temples and atmosphere in Bagan, Myanmar, and Hampi, India.

The entrance fee is very expensive as you pay depending on how many days you want to spend on the site. The ticket price has doubled since the 1 st  of February 2017 as an effort to deter potential tourists from visiting.

If you’re on a broke backpacker’s budget, I’d recommend skipping Angkor Wat to visit Banteay Chhmar. It’s comparable to Angkor Wat, but without the million tourists. This hidden yet massive temple complex is located just two hours from Siem Reap.

If you have your heart set on visiting Angkor Wat, I’d hire a tuk-tuk for the day to explore the massive temple complexes. Nina was recently in Siem Reap exploring Angkor Wat and was shown around by Mr. Phal – A friendly knowledgable guide who made her stay extra special. You can reach him on Whatsapp: +85587854593 .

If you have four people in a tuk-tuk then the price is relatively cheap. You can either do the small loop that hit’s all the major sites, like Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm and four+ more temples.

The big loop includes the small loop plus six other temples. I did the one-day small loop tour of the Angkor complex, starting at sunrise over Angkor Wat. By the end of the day, I was all temple-d out! It’s absolutely incredible there, however there’s only so many temples you can see in one day.

I highly recommend visiting the Landmine Museum, which makes for a really interesting and rather poignant side trip while you’re in Siem Reap and backpacking Cambodia. There is also a floating village in Siem Reap, however I wouldn’t recommend it.

The stilt huts over the river and crazy floating boat structures are cool, however, there are a lot of scams within the area. A guy tried to con me into paying 80,000 riel to feed the “orphan” children. Instead of giving money, I actually bought them fruit which they threw on the floor in front of me… If you really want to make a difference, pick your battles.

Siem Riep has a truly crazy nightlife and is packed with backpackers looking for a good time, be sure to check out some of the best bars in Siem Riep whilst you’re there. Pub Street is the main place to go out and is packed with bars all in a close proximity.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Cambodia

I could have easily spent months backpacking Cambodia; there many things to explore and discover here, hence why I over-stayed my visa by a week. I just didn’t want to leave!

The longest period of time you can stay in Cambodia is 90 days, (120 days for some countries) with a 30-day visa extension. If you have the time to thoroughly backpack Cambodia, I’d definitely explore more of the islands and backpack around the northwest region of Cambodia.

Koh Rong Samloem was by far my highlight of Cambodia. I’ve never seen an island like it! There are no roads anywhere on the island; everything is accessible either by boat or hiking. Only a few places on the island have Wi-Fi, power is limited, and it truly feels like you’re living off the grid. Sure there are a few fancy resorts, but the majority of the island is undeveloped and it boasts some of the best beaches in Cambodia.

The water is crystal clear turquoise blue, and the sand is powdery and white! Koh Rong Samloem is well known for its incredible diving sites and nature. Watch the sun set over the ocean from Sunset Beach and the ocean come alive at night with the bioluminescent plankton. There are no ATM’s at all on the island, so be sure to visit an ATM prior to getting stuck here in paradise.

Kulien Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest protected area in Cambodia & is home to many critically endangered animals. If you truly want to explore off the beaten path and be among nature then you’ll love this area.

Near the region is one of Cambodia’s best-kept secrets, Bantey Chhmar. It’s comparable to Angkor Wat but without the million tourists, this hidden yet massive temple complex is located just two hours from Siem Reap. Bantey Chhmar is Cambodia’s 4 th largest Angkorian temple, but due to its remote location tourism has hardly affected the region.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

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Below is a quick list of the top 6 things you have to do when backpacking Cambodia!

1. Explore the Angor Wat and Banteay Chhmar Temples

Okay, I know I mentioned it’s expensive and crowded, but there is a reason why. This is one of the most impressive temples in the world! As I mentioned earlier, skip the crowds by heading to Banteay Chhmar as well.

2. See Glowing Planktons on Koh Rong

Koh Rong’s beaches light up at night! For a truly exciting experience, try snorkeling amongst the glowing plankton.

3. Explore the Country by Bike

The trails in Cambodia can be quite challenging, but it’s totally worth it to explore the countryside, escape the crowds, and discover breathtaking waterfalls. As for the cities, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh are ideal to explore on wheels.

4. Beach Bum Koh Rong Samloem

No roads and all beach. This is the island to visit to get away from it all.

5. Bathe Elephants

Make sure to head over to the  Mondulkiri Project , 5 hours from Phnom Penh, where you can trek, bathe, and care for the free-roaming elephants. They’re an awesome sanctuary doing good work with their elephants.

Whatever you do, do not support businesses that mistreat the elephants via chains, riding, circus acts, etc. Do your research to ensure you’re not supporting cruelty in the elephant tourism industry .

6. Go on a Yoga Retreat

If you’re a travelling yogi and looking to up your game, check out Blue Indigo Yoga Retreat  in Siem Reap – Nina spent a week here getting strong and flexible in Summer 2018 and found it to be an absolutely amazing experience. With great instructors, a challenging but progressive program and cool hangout areas, Blue Indigo yoga courses are fairly priced and well worth dropping in to.

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Cambodia is home to some of the best hostels in Southeast Asia and has a wicked backpacking scene. You’ll have little trouble finding cheap backpacker accommodation in Cambodia . Phnom Penh, Kampot, Sihanoukville, Koh Rong, and Siem Reap have a huge variety of hostels, home stays, and guest houses at an affordable price.

Hostels in Cambodia  start from $3 per night and you can snag a private fan room from just $8 for 2 people. If you want to splash out and stay in a hotel room with TV, air con, and attached bathroom, shop around and you can find a place for as little as $15.

Make sure you book ahead if you want to stay at the popular party hostels, especially in peak season. I don’t usually endorse booking ahead really far in advance; however, it is necessary to book a few days prior if you don’t want to be disappointed.

There are a few cool guesthouses around that are cheaper than some hostels in Cambodia. If you’re backpacking Cambodia as a couple, sometimes it’s cheaper to opt for a private room in a guest house opposed to two dorm beds. You can always hang out at the popular hostels during the day & retreat to your guesthouse at night for a quiet sleep.

Below are a few of my favourite hostels & budget accommodation options when backpacking Cambodia.

The Best Places to Stay in Cambodia

Your budget for backpacking Cambodia depends solely on what type of traveller you are. Are you a flash-packer who needs to stay in the best hostels with air-conditioning and a pool? Or are you a broke backpacker who eats, lives and travels like the locals, is always keen to find the cheapest option possible, and doesn’t mind roughing it a little?

If you’re a broke backpacker like myself and will sleep in a portable hammock over a dorm because it’s cheaper, then you can easily travel with a budget of $20-$25 USD per day, assuming that you stay in cheap accommodation, eat local food and travel cheaply.

Rather than flying internally, take a night bus to your next destination, it saves you paying for a night’s accommodation.

Typically, it can actually be cheaper backpacking Cambodia as a pair. Often a private room in guesthouses can actually be cheaper than two dorm beds in a hostel. I try to stay in a cheap guesthouse close to a hostel and just hang out there for the social scene. I’ve found the portion sizes to be massive in Cambodia, so instead of paying for one meal and wasting food, I opt to share my meal & get a snack later if I’m still hungry.

Avoid the tourist traps! The fancy restaurants, VIP buses, air conditioning rooms and buying souvenirs – it all adds up and can blow out your budget big time if you’re not careful. Angkor Wat’s entrance will probably be your biggest “activity” expense: it’s $37 for a 1-day pass, $62 for 3 days and $72 for a 7-day pass.

If you eat like a local, hitchhike, catch local buses, or pack camping gear for outdoor sleeps, then it is possible to live off $10-$15 USD per day. Cambodia is relatively cheap compared to some South East Asian countries, however, it can get really expensive if you’re not careful and fall into the tourist trap.

A Daily Budget in Cambodia

Money in cambodia.

As of December 2020, the current exchange rate is around 4500 riel per USD, but in reality, the riel is pegged to the US dollar at 4000 riel to $1USD. When changing currency the value of your bill often determines the currency exchange rate you will receive. (e.g. A 50gbp bill is valued higher than 10gbp bill).

If you want to avoid the ATM fees then I recommend bringing cash instead. US Dollars are commonly used throughout Cambodia and that’s what comes out of the ATM too. If you need change less than $1 they will give it to you in the Cambodian currency: Riel. It’s always handy to have a small amount of Riel on you, especially if you want to pay your tuk tuk driver.

Although it is relatively easy to find ATMs around Cambodia, some remote islands like Koh Rong Samloem and small towns do not have cash machines. Try to get the maximum of cash out allowed in one transaction at the ATM, as fees can be as much as $9 a pop – just make sure you hide your money well !

Travel Tips – Cambodia on a Budget

For a cheap trip, always stick to the basic tenets of budget backpacking and thrifty travelling :

• Hang Your Hammock:  My camping hammock saved my backpacking funds big time. Wherever you can find two trees or poles, you can always have a comfortable night’s sleep. Some hostels even let you hang your hammock there (if there’s space) and charge you a quarter the price of a dorm bed.
• Camping: If you got the right backpacking adventure gear , camping on beaches will save you so much money, especially when you’re visiting the islands. Just make sure you don’t set up camp near any resorts or hostels, find a quiet spot and make sure you clean up after yourself.
• Couchsurfing:   Travelling through Couchsurfing is a great way to save money on accommodation and get local knowledge. It’s 100% free and you may even end up with a new friend at the end of your stay.
• Eat Local Food: If you eat like a local, then you tend to pay local prices. Sometimes it could be 1,000 riel extra because you’re a foreigner, but it’s still far cheaper than eating at a tourist restaurant.
• Hitchhiking:  This is a great way to get around and save a couple of dollars. The experience you get hitchhiking in incomparable to a tourist bus. I’ve been picked up hitchhiking by a local, who just wanted to show me around. He gave me a mini-tour of his hometown the way to our destination and just genuinely wanted me to enjoy my time in Cambodia.

Why You Should Travel to Cambodia with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

The best time of the year to backpack Cambodia is in peak season (November-February) , known as cool season. The temperature is warm enough to sunbake by the beach, but mild enough to explore Cambodia’s many temples without dying of heat stroke. The prices tend to increase during peak season; however, it’s the most comfortable time of the year to backpack Cambodia.

If you’re planning to backpack Cambodia during the wet season (May-September) , be prepared for the challenges you face ahead. Cambodia has many dirt roads that quickly turn to mud during the wet season. It can be rather dangerous to drive your motorcycle through the mud as it’s slippery and your bike will have less traction.

It’s also not fun trekking and doing day trips in the wet season. You don’t want the weather to rain on your parade whilst travelling in Cambodia.

During hot season temperatures and humidity rise to an uncomfortable level. Some travellers find the heat unbearable, particularly those from Britain and Scandinavia. I’m quite used to the heat since I’m from Australia but some days even tested my tolerance to the heat. Especially since air conditioning is a luxury when backpacking Cambodia.

Festivals in Cambodia

There are heaps of awesome festivals in Cambodia – both cultual and joyous – but here are a few of my faves:

• Chaul Chnam Thmey/Khmer New Year (April) – The whole country stops and everybody parties instead. Three days of festivities, food, temple visits, and a generally crackin’ good time! Come the last day, the water pistols come out for a classic Southeast Asian country-wide water-fight.
• Vesaka Bochea – The celebration of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and his transition into Nirvana. This is a massive festival right across Southeast Asia with plenty of temple offerings, lights, and a general air of reverence.
• Pchum Ben/Festival of the Dead (September) – A cultural festival in which Cambodians pay respect to their ancestral dead. Plenty of traditonal rituals mainly at the temples, and the day takes on an extra special significance for the descendants of those killed by the Khmer Rouge.
• Bonn Om Touk/Water Festival (November) – The festival celebrating the natural phenomenon of the flow reversal between the Tonle Sap and the Mekong River. Three days of merriment ensue including music, bands, feasts, fireworks, and boat races galore. Phnom Penh packs out hard, so either get in or get out quick depending on where you want to go in Cambodia for the festival.

What to Pack for Cambodia

For a proper Southeast Asia backpacking experience, it’s important to know what to take there first! On every adventure, there are six things I never go travelling without:

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

For plenty more inspiration on what to pack, check out my full   backpacking packing list .

Generally, Cambodia is a very safe place to travel; Cambodians are warm, open, friendly, and appreciative of tourists. You’ve just got to be aware of a few scams here and there. As always, keep your valuables close!

Watch for the tuk-tuk scams! This is when the driver is on a commission to deliver you to a particular shop/temple/restaurant/hotel/bar. You might be pressured to buy/consume/stay, but don’t!

For some more safety tips on travelling Cambodia, I’d recommend checking out our Backpacker Safety 101 post . It’s filled with travel tips and advice to keep you safe anywhere on the planet!

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Cambodia

The sex scene in Cambodia is on the rise, however, it’s mainly in the Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville area. Some places are quite discreet – so discreet that my friend naively suggested we get a drink “Helicopter Bar” because she liked the name… Little did she know that it was a go-go bar filled with prostitutes.

Drugs in Cambodia are readily available and effortless to find. Weed and opiates are quite easy to come across, are generally offered to you from tuk-tuk drivers. “Happy” pizza places are sprawled all over Cambodia, selling “happy” lassies and “happy” pizzas at a really reasonable price. In general, good marijuana is extremely easy to find and is also quite cheap compared to other Southeast Asian countries.

It’s surprisingly common to be offered opiates like heroin and pure opium whilst backpacking Cambodia. However, they’re dangerous and many tourists have died whilst taking heroin, mistaking it for cocaine. I’d avoid taking any form of cocaine, speed or ecstasy while travelling Cambodia. It’s not worth the risk and chances are you’re probably getting heroin.

Acid is quite easily available on the islands and Sihanoukville/Otres area. Quite often, they drop the acid on an Oreo or strawberry and it’s typically sold in drops, rather than tabs. Magic mushrooms are also around, however they’re rather expensive to come across.

By far the most commonly used drugs for travellers backpacking Cambodia is pharmaceuticals. You can buy ketamine over the counter if you’re a local, but it’s illegal for foreigners. Valium is a cheap, common drug among travellers backpacking Cambodia. Travellers wanting a similar effect of speed purchase Ritalin over the counter from dodgy pharmacies.

Be careful before diving into the pharmaceutical scene, it can be very dangerous and easy to turn your recreational use into an addiction due to its ease of access. Don’t carry any form of drugs on you. Otherwise, you could end up broke trying to bribe your way out of prison. Check out Blazed Backpackers 101 for tips on how to stay safe whilst partying while travelling.

Travel Insurance for Cambodia

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you are flying into Cambodia, you can arrive at either the Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, or Siem Reap airport. Otherwise, for those already backpacking around Southeast Asia and crossing by land…

Veun Kham/Dom Kralor is the only option to travel from Laos to Cambodia. Evidently, it’s quite a popular border crossing for backpackers who travel to Cambodia. There are signs and people to direct you where to go so crossing into Cambodia is super simple.

Bavet/Moc Bai is undeniably the most frequently used crossing to  travel from Vietnam  to Cambodia via land. It was the first crossing to open up for foreign travellers, and it is popular when travelling from Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) to Phnom Penh. The border gate is open from 8 am to 8 pm every day & is easy to navigate.

If you’re going to travel to Cambodia from Vietnam via the Mekong River, then Kaam Samnor/Ving Xuong is your only option. I took the slow boat from Chau Doc to the border, then a minivan to Phnom Penh. You can also get a fast boat along the Mekong River to Phnom Penh, however, it’s much more expensive.

You arrive at the border by boat, they collect your passport/visa, money & then they head to the immigration office to do all the paperwork for you. If you really want, you can go with them, but it’s not necessary. The only part you have to be present for is when they stamp your passport and cross-check your identity. This crossing seems kind of dodgy as there are no signs and only dirt roads; however, we managed to get across just fine, it’s all part of the experience when you’re backpacking Cambodia.

There are two main border crossing for  travellers coming from Thailand  to Cambodia:

• Aranyaprathet/Poipet is definitely the craziest border crossing when you travel to Cambodia from Thailand, as it’s the closest border crossing to Siem Reap & Bangkok. In peak periods crossing times can be in excess of 3 hours, depending on popularity. If you want to avoid the long lines and wait times, you can opt for an e-visa online, however, it’s a tad more expensive than on arrival.
• Hat Lek/Ko Kong is the most convenient crossing if you’re heading to Sihanoukville in Cambodia from the Kho Chang region in Thailand but (but last I checked) you can’t enter using an e-visa at this border. Be wary of scams at this crossing and Poipet, there have been numerous reports of Cambodian officials asking for absurd amounts of money for visa’s on arrival. Look into getting a Cambodian e-visa if you want to avoid the risk of getting ripped off, but remember to check valid entry points. These problems do not generally exist with arrival into airports. To get a tuk-tuk from the Cambodian border to Kho Khong should cost between 92,000- 120,00 Cambodian riel.

Entry Requirements for Cambodia

To backpack Cambodia, you need a passport that’s valid for at least six months. Over one hundred and fifty nationalities can apply for the Cambodia e-visa online through their website. If you like to plan ahead and not deal with the stress of getting a visa on arrival at the border, then an e-visa is perfect for you. Note though, it can take at least 3 days to process the application so applying the night before entry is not an option, also the e-visa can only be used at certain ports of entry into Cambodia .

Your e-visa will give you 3 months (starting from the date of issue) to enter Cambodia and allows you to stay for up to 30 days, with the option of extending your visa. It’s slightly more expensive than a visa on arrival costing you $37 USD opposed to $35 USD. However, we have recent reports (May 2017) that officials are charging $37 USD for Visa on Arrival as well, so be prepared for that.

If you are crossing from Thailand the situation is similar as with crossing into Laos; you will pay more if you buy your Visa on Arrival in Thai Baht (rate seems to be about 1600 Baht, approx. $48USD) rather than US dollars. Usually, you can find someone running a side business exchanging USD, competition generally dictates the exchange rate. You’re allowed one 30-day visa extension without leaving Cambodia which sets you back $45 USD.

If you do plan to get your visa on arrival when you travel to Cambodia, make sure you bring 2x passport sized photos. You can get your passport-sized photos taken at the border; however, you leave yourself open to paying what ever price is set by officials. Be sure to bring US dollars with you when entering Cambodia, the exchange rates for other currencies are vastly undervalued and you end up paying more than the actual conversion rate.

If you’re pressed for time or need a visa in advance check out iVisa , Ive used them on multiple occasions for sorting my visas.

It isn’t a big deal to overstay your visa in Cambodia, however, it does get expensive quickly. The fine for overstaying is $20 USD per day. So for instance, if you overstay 5 days you will be required to pay $100 USD upon exiting.

Passport holders from ASEAN member countries do not require a visa to visit Cambodia.

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Backpacking Cambodia is one crazy adventure and getting around is surprisingly easy and inexpensive. There has been a massive improvement in regards to roads and infrastructure, with the refurbishment of the National Highway. Unfortunately, not all roads have had the same improvements, as there are still many narrow, bumpy & dirt roads around.

The best way to explore whilst travelling Cambodia is undoubtedly by motorbike. If you’re coming by motorbike from Vietnam into Cambodia, you can enter and drive in the country without needing any special permits. Just be sure to have your blue card to prove ownership of the motorbike, drivers license and preferably an international drivers license also.

These are an easy and inexpensive way to backpack Cambodia if you’re travelling for less than 5 hours. I took a 2-hour minibus from Kampot to Sihanoukville which was $7 (USD).

Another great option to go long distances when you’re travelling Cambodia. It’s always worthwhile paying the extra couple of dollars for your sleeper bus. The cheaper buses do get you from A to B, however, they stop multiple times along the way and are not always the cleanest nor comfiest. I opted to stinge out on paying more and ended up sharing my seat with cockroaches… If you’re willing to pay extra you will have your own bed, curtain, power point, and Wi-Fi on your sleeper bus.

Travelling by Motorbike in Cambodia

If you want to see what other travellers who backpack Cambodia don’t, then travel by motorcycle. It’s the best and cheapest way to explore Cambodia, just as long as you have a reliable motorbike. In recent years, the main roads and highways have drastically improved making your drive a lot easier. If you plan to head to Vietnam throughout your travels in Southeast Asia and Cambodia, I’d recommend buying a motorbike there.

If you want to save on accommodation, consider buying a motorcycle tent for your adventure as well. You could pack a regular tent but it’s better to cover your bike up with you.

If you buy your motorcycle in Vietnam, then you’re able to take it to Laos and Cambodia without needing a special permit. However, you can’t take your Cambodian bought motorbike into Vietnam. Vietnam’s capital, Ho Chi Minh has an abundance of motorbikes you can purchase anywhere from $150 USD.

Take note that you can’t transport your motorcycle to the islands, so you’ll need a safe place to store it whilst you enjoy island life.

Hitchhiking in Cambodia

Hitchhiking in Cambodia is another fantastic option for getting around! You can have both good and bad experiences. I was picked up hitchhiking by a local, who just wanted to show me around. He gave me a mini-tour of his hometown on the way to our destination and genuinely just wanted me to enjoy my time in Cambodia.

Whereas, I had a different experience hitchhiking from Phnom Penh to Kampot. One guy wanted to charge me twice the price of a bus and thankfully another kind human took me the whole way without asking for anything.

If you want to hitchhike whilst backpacking in Cambodia, make sure you have a sign (preferably in Khmer and English), are standing next to the main road, and there’s plenty of space for a car to pull over.

Onwards Travel from Cambodia

The same rules for overland travel apply as the entrance. Check out the first part of this section for more information on the overland border crossings. It is quite easy to get a cheap flight or bus across to Thailand, Vietnam, or Laos.

Many travellers also head to other Southeast Asia countries, like Indonesia or even onwards to work and backpack in Australia to save up for Southeast Asia Round 2!

It’ll be a challenge for digital nomads staying in Cambodia. The WiFi in some areas of Cambodia is okay – particularly in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. However, step outside the urban areas or onto the islands, and it’s jungle WiFi territory!

Volunteering in Cambodia is much easier to get into though. All over Cambodia, you’ll find opportunities for volunteering on farms, with kids, or various other projects and organisations.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Teaching English in Cambodia

Heaps of working travellers choose to teach English in Cambodia for a spell. English is a higly sought after skill by both adults and, particularly, for children.

In order to teach English in Cambodia, there are a few things you’ll need to obtain first:

• An “ordinary” E-Class visa – Separate from the tourist visa, an E-Class visa is for people intending to stay in Cambodia for an extended period of time. It’s $35 for the initial 30 days and then you’ll need to get a visa extension.
• EB visa extension and work permit – You’ll need the work permit to get the visa extension first. It’s around $100 for the permit and can only be obtained through an employer ONCE you have found a job. Once you have your work permit, you can apply for the EB visa extension – the extension applicable to most expats working in Cambodia. EB visa extensions can be taken in periods of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months at $50/$80/$160/$290 respectively , and you’ll need a stamped letter verifying your employment to qualify.
• A TEFL certificate – Now, you can find a job teaching English in Cambodia without a TEFL certificate. However, a TEFL certificate is going to open up a lot of doors with both available jobs and the relative payscale you can expect. It’s a strong recommendation that anyone who wants to work as an English teacher abroad should get one.

There are a lot of choices for acquiring a TEFL degree, however, I recommend running the course through  MyTEFL . Not only are they a highly reputable and effective company, but Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount (using the code PACK50)!

Then, you’ll be able to stay in Cambodia… forever.

Volunteer in Cambodia

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Cambodia which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

As one of the poorest countries in the world, Cambodia welcomes thousands of volunteers to help out in a number of areas. English teaching and social workers are in high demand throughout the country, but you’ll also find opportunities in hospitality, decorating, and digital marketing. Keep in mind you’ll need to apply for a ‘Type E – Ordinary Visa’ and a work permit in order to volunteer in Cambodia. 

If you want to find volunteering opportunities in Cambodia, then we recommend that you Signup for Worldpackers –  a volunteer platform that connects local hosts directly with traveling volunteers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10 when you sign up. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Volunteer programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers are usually very well-managed and reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering, do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

The Khmer food in Cambodia is absolutely delicious. Many Khmer dishes originate or are inspired by their neighbouring Asian countries. You will fall in love with the food whilst backpacking Cambodia.

Khmer cuisine has a focus on fresh ingredients that create a harmony of flavours. Unlike neighbouring Thailand and other countries in the region, however, Cambodian dishes tend to be milder in heat with more weight given to tangy and pickled flavours. Much like other countries in the region though, you can expect plenty of rice.

Popular Cambodian Dishes

• Lok Lak – Is a delicious stir-fried beef dish, served on a bed of lettuce, red onion, cucumbers and tomatoes. The beef is cooked with garlic and tomato sauce. The dipping sauce consists of lime juice, sea salt and black pepper.
• Fish Amok – This is probably my all-time favourite Khmer dish whilst backpacking Cambodia. It’s a spicy fish coconut curry served in a banana leaf with a side of rice. Not only is this yellow curry cheap, but also absolutely delicious and a national culinary Cambodian tradition.
• Bobo – Is a local rice soup dish with spring onions and garlic, commonly eaten for breakfast. It’s a basic yet delicious start to your day served with garlic, beans, chilli, and lime.
• Lap Khmer – This is a delectable lime-marinated Khmer beef salad, may not be for everyone. The beef is either “cooked” ceviche style using lime juice or seared quickly. It’s quite spicy and has a great flavour with lemongrass, garlic, basil, mint and fish sauce. If you’re eating at a western friendly place then your beef will be cooked properly, however, if you’re eating locally you may be eating rare beef.
• Khmer Red Curry – This dish is quite similar to a Thai red curry but without the overpowering chilli burn. It’s made with your choice of meat or fish, with eggplant, lemongrass, green beans, potatoes, coconut milk and kroeung (Cambodian spice). The Khmer red curry has a French influence and is typically served with bread.

You could also try booking a Cambodian Cooking class to get the insider scoop on how the Khmer get their dishes so damn delicious!

Cambodian people are friendly and inquisitive. You can expect to be greeted with big smiles!

90-95 percent of the people are Khmer ethnic.

The Khmer Loeu are the non-Khmer highland tribes in Cambodia, and the Cham people in Cambodia descend from refugees of the Kingdom of Champa, which once ruled much of Vietnam between Gao Ha in the north and Bien Hao in the south.

Useful Travel Phrases for Cambodian

Here are some Khmer travel phrases for travelling around Cambodia. The locals will appreciate your attempts to learn the local language with a huge smile on their faces.

• Hello  – Jum-reap soo-a
• How are you?  – Tau neak sok sapbaiy jea teh?
• Goodbye!  – Joom-reap leah
• Yes  – Baat (men)/ Chaas (Women)
• Please – Suom mehta
• Thank you  – Or-koon
• Sorry/excuse me  – Sohm dtoh
• No plastic bag – kmean thng bla ste ch
• No straw please – kmean chambaeng saum
• No plastic cutlery please – kmean bla ste ch kabet phka
• I need a doctor  – K`nyom trouv krouh peit
• I’m lost – K’nyom vung vehng plouv
• I would like  – Khnyom sohm___
• How much does this cost?  – T’lay pohnmaan?

Dating in Cambodia

Cambodia is typically a very conservative society and will rarely show any public display of affection (PDA). Chatting up girls is not really a thing in Cambodian culture, however, it’s normal to occur in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap where there are a lot of bar girls looking to make friends with foreigners.

Watch your wallet and remember that all humans deserve to be treated with respect. Don’t get drunk and do anything you would be ashamed to tell your Mum.

The people in major cities are generally less conservative and are open to PDA. Although Cambodia is a conservative society, it’s ironically easy for a foreigner to score a “date”. You do need to be very careful though as sexually transmitted diseases, in particular, HIV and AIDS are quite common.

Books to Read About Cambodia

Below are my favourite books set in Cambodia:

• A Cambodian Prison Portrait –  There are many myths about the Khmer Rouge’s bloodthirstiness and brutality, but there was at least one place where they all were real: Security Prison 21 , the secret police’s killing machine. Of the 14,000 or so prisoners who were brought there for questioning, only a handful survived. One of them was the artist Vann Nath (1946-2011). In this thin little book, he describes his horrifying year behind the barbed wired walls of S-21.
• The Lost Executioner – The head of S-21, Kang Kek Iew, AKA Comrade Duch, is central in this remarkable book. In 1997, the photographer and journalist Nic Dunlop more or less stumbled upon Duch, who had been hiding since the fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979.
• Phnom Penh: A Cultural History – This book provides a colourful account of the troubled history and appealing culture of Cambodia’s capital city. It sheds light on Phnom Penh’s early history when first Iberian missionaries and freebooters and then French colonists held Cambodia’s fate in their hands.

A Brief History of Cambodia

Cambodia has a turbulent history with numerous invasions and battles throughout the years. If you’re backpacking Cambodia, It’s important to have knowledge of their history & how they’ve progressed to be the country they are today.

During the 18th century, Cambodia found itself squeezed between two powerful neighbours, Thailand and Vietnam. The Thais invaded Cambodia several times during this period. In the last years of the 18th century, the Vietnamese also invaded Cambodia. The Cambodian king was forced to look to the Thais for protection; in return, Thailand took north-west Cambodia.

Cambodia soon turned to France as a protectorate from both Thailand and Vietnam. They were under French rule for the next 90 years, where some economic development took place. They built roads, railways and helped develop the rubber industry. Cambodian nationalism grew during the 1930s as the French imposed heavy taxes on the Cambodian people.

During the early 1940s (WWII) the Japanese invaded and occupied Cambodia until 1945 when the French returned as a protectorate. A new constitution was formed allowing Cambodia to have political parties, which led to communist guerrillas to campaign against the French. In 1949 Cambodia became semi-independent and soon after King Sihanouk took personal control of the country. Cambodia became fully independent in 1953 and was renamed the Khmer Republic in 1970.

During 1969 the US began a secret bombing crusade against the North of Vietnam on Cambodian soil. Prime Minister Lon Nol then overthrew King Sihanouk in a coup to proclaim the Khmer Republic. Cambodian soldiers were sent to fight the North Vietnamese on home soil. However, the guerrilla/communist movement slowly made progress, leading to the US commencing bombing campaigns against the communist Khmer Rouge guerrillas.

The Khmer Rouge Regime and the Cambodian Genocide

On the 17th of April 1975, the Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, captured Phnom Penh and renamed the country Kampuchea. This was the beginning of the world’s worst mass killings of the 20th century. Pol Pot wanted to wipe history clean and start from ‘Year Zero’.

Everyone was forced to abandon their houses, jobs, and possession, and move to the countryside to work in agriculture on collective farms. Pol Pot had a totally unrealistic target of double its agricultural output, to produce 3 tones of rice per hectare, which was literally impossible. Everyone had to work long hours of little food, which led to many falling ill or dying from exhaustion or malnutrition.

Everyone from the intellectuals to the uneducated was imprisoned, tortured, killed and dumped in mass graves. People, who spoke a foreign language, wore glasses, or had any kind of higher education were executed. Religion was banned, punishable by death, and family relationships were forbidden. People were executed for the smallest infringements, like foraging for food, being too lazy and complaining.

How many people were killed during the Khmer Rouge is unknown, but it’s estimated that between 1.5 – 3 million people perished.

The Vietnamese invaded Cambodia in 1978 to terminate the Pol Pot regime. The Khmer Rouge fled to the border of Thailand, to re-establish The People’s Republic of Kampuchea. They were welcomed with open arms by Thailand, who also feared a Vietnamese invasion. However the guerrilla war continued, the party was still officially internationally recognized and retained their seat in the United Nations.

In 1989 Vietnam withdrew from Cambodia and communism was abandoned. A provisional government took power until the 1993 elections where they framed a constitution. In 1991 the Paris Peace Agreement was signed, reinstating Sihanouk to be head of state. The monarchy was soon restored, Buddhism was recognized as the national religion and Sihanouk became king once again. The country was renamed “The Kingdom of Cambodia” and the Khmer Rouge obviously lost their seat in the UN.

Thousands of guerrillas involved in the Khmer Rouge surrendered to the government, in a bid for amnesty. Those involved in the Khmer Rouge were put on trial and Pol Pot was sentenced to life in prison due to his horrendous war crimes. Pol Pot died shortly after in 1998, returning peace to the Kingdom of Cambodia.

Cambodia has progressed and developed considerably in a short amount of time. Although it’s still a relatively poor country, the economy is growing rapidly. The textiles and tourism industry is booming, oil was discovered off the Cambodian coastline, which assures Cambodia a prosperous future.

Are you looking for some extra quick info about visiting Cambodia? Then here are some cool activities you should consider doing!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Trekking in Cambodia

Trekking is not typically popular in Cambodia, therefore they tend to be quite expensive. The are two main treks when backpacking Cambodia is Virachey and Phnom Samkos.

Virachey is a common trek when backpacking Cambodia. It’s an environmentally friendly 7-day Ecotour. You trek through remote villages, through the Yak Yeuk Grasslands up to Mera Mountain, finishing right near the Laos border.

Veal Thom Grasslands boats the most spectacular views of the wild, unexplored mountainous border of Laos and Vietnam. Throughout your trek you’ll be spotting gibbons, hornbills, exploring grasslands and swimming in rivers. It’ll be a truly authentic and incredible Cambodian experience.

If you’re looking for a world-class trek that’s completely off the beaten path, then head to Phnom Samkos, Cambodia’s second highest peak. Instead of opting for a tour, arrange it yourself with rangers in Promouy town. It’ll be expensive but one hell of an adventure!

There are no defined trails, so you’ll have to use machetes to make your own trail up to the mountain peak. It’s quite a dangerous trek as it’s extremely remote and there are potential landmines. You’ll be exposed to everything the jungle offers including leeches and wild animals like elephants.

My friend actually woke up to elephants congregating around their campsite whilst doing the Phnom Samkos trek. The national park insists on you taking two rangers armed with AK47’s on your 3-day trek to the summit. Sounds like a once in a lifetime experience right?

Joining an Organised Tour in Cambodia

For most countries, Cambodia included, solo travel is the name of the game. That said, if you are short on time, energy, or just want to be part of an awesome group of travellers you can opt to join an organized tour. Joining a tour is a great way to see a majority of the country quickly and without the effort that goes into planning a backpacking trip. However—not all tour operators are created equal—that is for sure.

G Adventures  is a solid down-to-earth tour company catering to backpackers just like you, and their prices and itineraries reflect the interests of the backpacker crowd. You can score some pretty sweet deals on epic trips in Cambodia for a fraction of the price of what other tour operators charge.

Check out some of their awesome  itineraries for Cambodia  here…

Cambodia is a beautiful country to travel. There are just a few things you need to keep in mind before visiting.

Political Issues to be Aware of in Cambodia

Cambodia is still in the midst of political uncertainty as the government campaigns for a 2018 election. The government has misused the justice system to harass and punish civil society and silence critics.

Human right advocates, public intellectuals, NGOs and the opposition have recently been targeted by this autocratic government. Although the political system is corrupt, it shouldn’t affect or impact your travels to Cambodia. Just stay updated on the current political situation in Cambodia .

Be Good to Cambodia

Writing your name in black marker on temples, chugging beer while shirtless and swearing loudly, visiting unethical animal attractions ? You, Sir, are a twat. Luckily, most backpackers don’t fall into this category but, when you’re out and about and have had a few too many drinks, it can be easy to embarrass yourself.

It’s easy to get carried away in Southeast Asia, everything is so damn cheap and so much fun. I’m in no way the perfect traveller; I’ve been the drunken idiot on the street. I know first hand just how hard it is to be the one person in a group to say no when somebody comes up with a stupid idea that, for some reason, everybody is down for.

By no means am I telling you not to drink, smoke, and party. Do it and love it. Just don’t get so drunk you turn into an imbecile your mum would be ashamed of .

Wear a helmet when you hop on a motorbike in Asia . The local people are sick of scraping foreigners off the road and, trust me, you don’t look cool for not wearing a helmet.

Humans are humans; treat people you meet along the way with the same respect you would show your friends and family back home. You are not superior to anyone including the girls/guys walking the streets. Luck of the draw is the only true difference separating you and them.

Go to Asia and have the time of your life, do the things you’ve dreamed of but be respectful along the way. Travelling is a privilege many don’t get to enjoy – use it for good.

Cambodia has a tragic, turbulent past, but as they recover and move on, they are welcoming tourists with open arms and wide smiles. Beautiful beaches, temples, and undiscovered hikes are reason enough to travel to Cambodia! A slice of happy pizza and a bombastic sunset to accompany is just the icing on the cake.

• Backpacking Vietnam
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Full Moon Party in Thailand
• Best Hostels in Bangkok

Monique MacPhail

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37 Comments

New backpacker guesthouse in a pottery village halfway between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Hi Will, is Cambodia still difficult to get into? I’m hoping to go there for a month from early April. Sounds like you think it’s still a challenge?

These things will always come down to the passport you are travelling on. Ive visited Cambodia at least 3 times via various land boarders, you do need to have your documents, photos and money in order and maybe a little bit of tea money as well, but so long as you research the latest requirement and read some recent traveller reports I think you should be fine. Look out for scams at the border crossing, especially at Poipet.

Thanks for such a comprehensive and well written guide. I found the getting around section particularly useful. We opted for sleeper bus when travelling from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville and it was surprisingly comfortable although a bit scary considering how bad the roads are in Cambodia!

Keep up the great work.

Thanks for writing such an in-depth guide to Cambodia. Especially the off the beaten track part of it. I went there many years ago, before the wifi and smart phone era and didn’t have the time to travel much around. It has been a country I wanted to return to since. I will definitely look at your guide when I go.

Me and my boyfriend are just starting to plan backpacking together. I found this blog extremely useful! Spent most of the day reading it and researching places you have mentioned. As a first time traveller this blog is one to read.

Thanks so much! We hope it serves you well in Cambodia!

Thank you for these amazing and detailed information!

One of my favourite country will always be Cambodia… I guess there is a special last life connect with Cambodia…Hahaha…. The felt the connect as soon as i entered cambodia by road from Bangkok

Love the blog, hostel tips from this website have proved particularly on point!

I tried 12Go a couple of times after reading your recommendation and was disappointed. Perhaps it works well if booking a good while in advance, but if like me, you’re a “what do I fancy next” kind of traveller, it’s sadly lacking. Prices no better than companies’ own websites or what a hostel will book for you but with far less information. The first time I used it, it was missing half the travel options for the day, whether by recommendation or not I don’t know as there was no information explaining. The second time, I tried booking a boat to Koh Rong and it said there was no availability for the date I wanted to travel so I booked for the next day and booked a hostel in Sihanoukville for the night. Quickly realised on arrival that there were loads of options and it would have been a little cheaper to book directly with them.

Quick note – the table for accommodation doesn’t display very well on a mobile website, managed to decipher turning into landscape and much appreciate the tips!

Hey! I totally loved this piece. I am so excited and dreaming about Cambodia now. I had a question about camping. Is it really safe to pitch tents on the beach?

If you choose a secluded spot, yes 🙂

Currently planning my trip around South East Asia and your articles have been a godsend! Just wondering what’s the best way on getting from Koh Rong Samloem to Battambang? I get that I’ll probably have to get the ferry Sihanoukville but what about after that? Also, I intend to go to Siem Reap as well, and then onto Thailand (with the intention of heading towards Kanchanaburi), so bearing this in mind which place is best to visit first out of Siem Reap and Battambang, and what’s the best method of transport?

There are plenty of regular buses – Check out 12go if you wanna reserve a seat 🙂

great read !

We are looking into Vietnam first then got more interested in Cambodia, now with 3&1/2 weeks would we be pushing it for time to do both Cambodia and Northern Vietnam? Realistically, how easy would it be to get up into Hanoi out to do the Ha Giang loop then over to Cat Ba to spend a couple days over there in 8 days? Should we focus just on Cambodia?

Personally, I would focus on Vietnam but that’s because I LOVE long motorbike rides. You COULD do Northern Vietnam then just five days at Angor Wat, that is feasible.

Thank you for these amazing and detailed information! I’ll do a worldtravel, starting the 1 October and defenitely going to visit Cambodia. I panned on staying only 2 weeks, is this enough or do I miss to much?

Two weeks is enough to scratch the surface for sure.

I traveled to Phnom Penh 2 times and stayed a week each time. Once in March (I think) and again in late May of 2018. Had really just one reason why I was interested. One was a Bar that was Amsterdam-like and served a decent menu of hash, flower, and edibles with a place to hang out upstairs. Really that was the only cool weed place that I saw. I saw the happy pizza joints. Gluten intolerant so never tried. He also had big bags of ditch-weed cheap, though not my thing. The other place I (LIKED) was this little Cambodian run bar like another that sold joints. It was kind of nice to sit at their patio and smoke a fat full-weed joint for $2. It was good enough to where I actually didn’t even have to finish to be stoned. Unfortunately, my second visit was pretty crappy. The first bar mentioned, the bartender trid to charge me twice for a 7 dollar purchase after i JUST gave him a $100 bill. He may have forgotten but I personaly don’t think so because when I pointed out that I already paid hime he didn;t even react, he just emediately handed me exact change. Plus all of the cannibas products that I tried (2 hash, 3 edibles, 2 grams), SUCKED except the 10 dollar River Poisen and believe me, it’s nothing to write home about. I tried the Asian owned bar and she quoted me a dollar higher price per joint and I asked why it had suddenly gone up, she became very angry with me. So I said OK just asking, I’ll buy two. So I sit down to smoke one and it tastes like 90% tobacco which I never smoke. It may have been less but I couldn’t hold it in for a second. So I calmly mentioned that it would have been nice to know it was a spliff. She said, oh you start smoking already? I’m like, yes that’s how I found out. she said OK if you don’t like it I can take care of it. Has me hand it to her and then just expected me to walk off. I said, I’d like either my money or the joint, just out of principle really. So she surprisingly gives me my money for one, the quickly reaches over to the ash tray and grabs the other. She just couldn’t be happy without burning me somehow. And I left quietly as she bad-mouthed me all the way. I bought from the first guy that offered outside of her bar and found a 3 dollar joint. It was exactly that. 15 min buzz. I also had some almost dangerous circumstances take place. Allot of angry people. One guy swerved his truck and missed me by a few inches then parked right in front of me. Not sure why. Just feeling like a jerk I guess. I know these people rely so much on tourism but so many of them seem to just kind of piss all over you. I’ll give siem reap a chance but I’ve had it with abuse this places dishes out.

Absolutely love your blog, it’s so helpful! Do you recommend any other hostels on Koh Rong? We want to be close to Koh Touch for the nightlife but far enough away to get a good nights sleep. We’d also prefer to stay in private rooms or female dorms that are clean and comfortable 🙂 Thank you!

What a great write up! Thank you. I’m trying to decide to visit Cambodia LAO or Vietnam. I cannot make up my mind

Thanks for the excellent guide to backpacking Cambodia

It sure helps if you effectively have inside info on a deal such as this. Really great work.

Cheers Sharon…

It is possible to get my hostel added to your list? I think I am competitive with the others from Siem Reap. https://facebook.com/AlisHouseSR Thank you for your consideration.

Hey buddy, please email [email protected] with your enquiry 🙂

I must say that was an amazing read!! All being well I’ll be heading off to SEA a the end of April and that article has given me a lot to think about regarding Cambodia. One thing that worries me is May being the start of the wet season, does this mean torrential rain all day everyday? Or just some afternoon showers? Any advice would me much appreciated, thanks!

Hey Anthony! Pretty tough to predict the weather to be honest mate but you’ll have an awesome time – if it truly pours just kick back with a beer and enjoy the noise 🙂

Thanks for sharing, very nice.

Thanks very nice

Hi Will, I’m at the moment in Thailand. I came to Bangkok to apply for indian tourist visa since i have a flight from Delhi to Europe in January so i want to travel in india for few months before my departure. I discovered yesterday that Indian consulate don’t give any tourist visa anymore to foreigners. You can only apply for 30 days on arrival via internet. This is not good for me since i need to be in India more than one month. So i would like to know if the indian embassy in Cambodia is still giving tourist visa to foreigners. If somebody can help with this info would be of great help! Notice that the new law was just announced here in Bangkok the 3th September evening. Is not even updated on their website.

I’m afraid I truly have no idea whatsoever… your best bet is to ask on the Lonely Planet ThornTree forum.

Being your next destination, why don’t you try couchsurfing in my country, the Philippines. There are many couchsurfers here. 🙂

It’s certainly the plan, I love Couchsurfing! 🙂

Hey I’m going to Cambodia in April travelling overland from Thailand. Excited about the border crossing it doesn’t sound like a massive ballache at all. Should I be bringing American dollars or is the local currency best? I’ve seen lots of mixed advice about this and I’m a little confused. Thanks 🙂

Hi Kayleigh! You should always have some dollars on you when travelling in SEA but to clarify the ATMS actually give out USD most of the time, you only get riels (Cambodian currency) as change when you buy stuff with dollars, this is how it tends to work anyway 🙂

Thanks for sharing Will! I’m doing a 100 day trip to SE Asia. How many days would you recommend spending in Cambodia?

For 100 days (what a great number!!) maybe a couple of weeks in cambodia is what I would recommend 🙂

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Experience the vibrant tapestry of culture and nature in our Vietnam Cambodia Laos 3 week itinerary . Journey through three countries, discovering the splendor of Cambodia’s Angkor Complex, cruising Halong Bay, exploring the Mekong Delta’s charm, and savoring the tranquility of Laos. Craft memories that endure in this 3-week adventure.

Day 1: Siem Reap

The moment you step foot at Siem Reap International Airport, Cambodia’s vibrant history unfolds before you. Effortlessly clearing immigration, you’ll be chauffeured to your Siem Reap hotel where you’ll stay the night. Prepare to set out on your thrilling journey and delve into the marvels that this enchanting place has in store for you.

Day 2: Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

Step into the enchanting world of Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat ! Your temple exploration commences at the iconic Ta Prohm or the mesmerizing Preah Khan temple. Traverse the ancient city of Angkor Thom, where the grandeur of Bayon Temple and the exquisite carvings of the nearby Terraces await. Following a delightful lunch, behold the magnificence of Angkor Wat, a profound symbol of Khmer spirituality. As the sun sets, bask in its warm embrace, casting a golden aura over the temple and its graceful Apsara dancers. Return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest, savoring the memories of this extraordinary journey. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and unwind by the pool, relishing the wonders you’ve encountered.

Day 3: Banteay Srey – Kbal Spean – ACCB

Delve into the idyllic countryside, starting with a visit to the mesmerizing Banteay Srey temple. Its elegant pink sandstone and intricate bas-reliefs await your exploration. Continue your adventure with a rejuvenating forest hike to Kbal Spean, where the “River of 1000 Lingas” unveils ancient Hindu carvings amid the natural splendor. Refuel with a delectable lunch, then venture to the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity, dedicated to preserving wildlife and the environment. Engage with local communities, observing the craft of rice paper making and savoring regional delights. The Cambodian Land Mine Museum offers a humbling experience of resilience. Immerse yourself in Cambodia’s countryside, leaving with cherished memories of this transformative journey.

Day 4:  Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City

As your plane lands in Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam’s dynamic urban center, the distant silhouette of Angkor Wat’s five majestic towers captivates the horizon. The city thrives with lively neighborhoods, radiating boundless energy that’s irresistibly vibrant. Amidst modern conveniences and a swift pace, the locals’ enduring rich culture and timeless traditions add depth to the ever-changing cityscape. The air carries the enchanting scents of garlic and freshly prepared rice noodles, enticing you to explore the hidden treasures of the city’s culinary landscape. Savor the sumptuous flavors of pho, discovering charming eateries nestled in every corner, promising a culinary adventure at every twist and turn.

Day 5: Ho Chi Minh City

Following breakfast, your dedicated guide will accompany you on an extraordinary expedition through the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels . You’ll delve into the labyrinthine network’s three tiers and encounter an enlightening exhibition featuring the ingenious traps and weaponry employed during the Vietnam War. Afterward, return to the city center for a delectable lunch before embarking on a captivating exploration of Ho Chi Minh City. Witness the harmonious fusion of historical legacy and contemporary marvels as you tour iconic landmarks like the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage, unveiling its diverse architectural tapestry.

Day 6: Mekong Delta – Danang/ Hoi An

Experience the enchanting Mekong Delta , often referred to as Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” where you’ll witness the vibrant water-based way of life. Your journey begins as you leave the city behind and head to Ben Tre, where an idyllic boat ride along the Ben Tre River awaits. Here, you can observe traditional brick making at a local Brickwork and explore the coconut processing workshops that line the canal.

Cruise through natural scissor creeks and pay a visit to a family-run workshop specializing in crafting sleep mats. Immerse yourself in rural life with a biking trip or a ride on a Xe Loi, passing by lush rice fields and verdant vegetable plains. After savoring a delicious lunch, glide along the serene waters of Water Palm Creek in a traditional rowing boat.

Finally, return to Hung Vuong Pier and catch a short flight to Da Nang before transferring to Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its beautifully preserved architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Here, you’ll have the chance to embrace the timeless charm of Hoi An’s rich history and culture.

Day 7: Hoi An

Experience the enchanting town of Hoi An with a full-day itinerary. Begin with an immersive orientation walk, where you’ll delve into the centuries-old history and cultural richness. Explore a private family house, providing a glimpse into tradition. Visit the Sa Huynh Museum , offering insights into Hoi An’s origins. Don’t forget the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda.

In the latter half of the morning, tap into your creativity by crafting vibrant lanterns. Guided by an expert, you’ll select silk, construct a bamboo frame, and create your lantern. This unique memento can be packed in your luggage, carrying a piece of Hoi An’s charm. Enjoy a delicious lunch, then return to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at the pool or beach, embracing tranquility and the day’s enchantment.

Day 8: Hoi An

Commence your day with a morning cycling escapade in the charming town of Hoi An, immersing yourself in the serenity of the Thu Bon River . Here, you’ll observe the local way of life, with farmers diligently tending to their fields alongside their trusty water buffalo companions. Navigate through picturesque palm forests, cross quaint bridges, and pass by peaceful ponds en route to Cam Thanh Village .

Take a delightful pause with a welcoming local family before embarking on a journey through the water coconut palm forest aboard a traditional boat. Get hands-on experience sailing in a traditional basket boat, while capturing glimpses of fish and vibrant purple crabs in the tranquil canal.

Your cycling adventure continues to Tra Que , a remarkable organic vegetable village, where you can witness sustainable farming practices in action. Participate in a captivating cooking class at KumQuat restaurant, where you’ll learn to prepare and savor traditional Hoi An cuisine. Wrap up your day with a leisurely bike ride back to your hotel, where you can unwind poolside or enjoy the nearby beach.

Prepare for a delightful journey to the enchanting riverside town of Hue , a picturesque route spanning approximately 95 km along Vietnam’s mesmerizing coastline from Da Nang. Along the way, marvel at the breathtaking scenery and make your first stop at the Non Nuoc stone carving village, nestled at the base of Marble Mountain. Don’t miss the chance to capture stunning photos from the panoramic viewpoint at Hai Van Pass, perched around 500 meters above sea level.

Following a delectable lunch, embark on a captivating tour of Hue Imperial City , where you’ll step back in time while exploring the ancient walled citadel that was once the home of the Imperial Palace. Immerse yourself in the rich history and grandeur of this imperial capital. Conclude your day with a visit to the splendid royal tomb of Khai Dinh King. Uniquely designed with a blend of traditional Vietnamese and European influences, this tomb exudes its distinct charm and elegance. As the day draws to a close, embrace the cultural heritage and beauty that Hue offers, leaving you with lasting memories of this remarkable destination.

Day 10: Hue – Hanoi

Begin your delightful journey at Thanh Toan , a remarkable 300-year-old bridge nestled in Hue’s serene countryside. Dive into the vibrant village market, where locals exchange fresh produce, revealing timeless farming techniques. Wander the hidden alleys to discover one of Hue’s oldest pagodas and renowned incense and conical hat villages. A short walk leads to ancient war bunkers atop a hill, offering a breathtaking view of the Perfume River. Conclude with a delectable lunch at a romantic riverside restaurant.

Next, venture to Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital. Embrace the symphony of bustling motorbikes and the vibrant ambiance of traditional neighborhoods. Your private transfer awaits at the airport, guiding you to centrally located accommodation. Experience the harmonious blend of the modern world with timeless traditions in this enchanting city. Get ready for an incredible adventure.

Day 11: Hanoi

Embark on a captivating journey from Hanoi , delving into the rich cultural and historical tapestry. Commence your exploration at the Museum of Ethnology, a window into the intricate mosaic of Vietnamese culture. Venture to Hoa Lo Prison, a poignant site steeped in Vietnam’s history.

For lunch, relish Bún Chả, a delectable local specialty. The Vietnamese Coffee Shop offers an eco-friendly experience, where you can savor the beloved Vietnamese egg coffee. Marvel at the historical Long Bien Bridge and enjoy a leisurely walk with panoramic vistas. Conclude your day with a delightful cyclo ride through the lively French Quarter, brimming with the city’s energy. Return to your hotel with cherished memories of the day’s adventures.

Day 12: Halong Bay

Halong Bay , an iconic Vietnamese gem, boasts breathtaking limestone islands rising from the emerald waters. To truly immerse yourself in its splendor, an overnight boat trip is a must. Leaving bustling Hanoi behind, a scenic drive through the fertile farmlands of the Red River Delta awaits. The journey takes about 3 hours, with a brief 20-minute stop en route.

Upon reaching Halong City’s jetty, you complete check-in procedures and step aboard the cruise ship. A warm welcome greets you as you settle in and relish a delectable lunch while cruising this mythical bay. In the afternoon, diverse activities beckon to explore every corner of this enchanting place. From cave expeditions to kayaking, rowing boat rides, and swimming, a plethora of options await. As day turns to night, the cruise anchors among captivating karst formations, creating a serene atmosphere. Delight in an onboard dinner, surrounded by Halong Bay’s captivating beauty.

Day 13: Halong Bay

Experience the awe-inspiring sunrise at one of the world’s most stunning locations. Begin your day with a refreshing tai chi class on the sundeck, welcoming the new day’s energy. Relish a delightful hot breakfast and aromatic coffee in the restaurant. Enjoy a variety of gentle activities thoughtfully arranged by the attentive staff or simply relax onboard, immersing yourself in movies, books, or the picturesque views. Wrap up this unforgettable journey with a leisurely buffet brunch as you sail back to the port. Upon disembarkation, a private transfer will swiftly return you to Hanoi, leaving you with treasured memories of an extraordinary adventure.

Day 14: Hanoi – Luang Prabang

After savoring your final breakfast in Hanoi , you’ll have a leisurely morning to relax and explore on your own. Later, transport to Noi Bai International Airport for your departure flight to Phnom Penh.

Upon your arrival at Phnom Penh International Airport, transfer to your hotel for some unwind and relaxation, getting ready for the upcoming Laos adventure.

Day 15: Luang Prabang

Awake with the sun’s first rays, immersing yourself in Laos’ sacred traditions as you join the morning almsgiving ritual. Over 200 Buddhist monks, clad in saffron robes, gracefully tread the streets of Luang Prabang to collect alms from devout locals. Meditative and barefooted, the monks receive offerings of sticky rice, bananas, sweets, and more, bestowing blessings in return. Afterward, explore the vibrant morning market where villagers exchange fresh catches for essential ingredients, providing a glimpse into local life.

Your day unfolds with a visit to Wat Xiengthong , an architectural gem boasting an ornate two-tiered roof and intricate mosaics. The Royal Palace Museum, a colonial-era residence for King Sisavang Vong, awaits exploration. Savor authentic Laotian cuisine at Tamarind for lunch.

Your journey continues to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Centre, displaying the diverse heritage of Laos’ ethnic minorities through traditional costumes, tools, and artifacts. In the late afternoon, ascend Mount Phousi for a sunset vista of the city and the Mekong River, complete with a gilded stupa. The day concludes with a cultural dinner featuring traditional dance and folk songs, offering an intimate immersion into Lao culture. Your exploration culminates at the Night Market, adorned with handcrafted textiles from local and hill tribe artisans.

Day 16: Luang Prabang

In the morning, venture into the serene countryside of Luang Prabang, where you’ll find a community-based rice farm surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush rice paddies. Immerse yourself in the life of a Laotian farmer, engaging in various farm activities or simply observing them from the tranquil setting of a traditional Lao rice house balcony nestled amid rice terraces and an organic vegetable farm. Nearby workshops beckon, showcasing the talents of local artisans in bamboo weaving, blacksmithing, and sugar cane processing. A tour of the organic garden will reveal the secrets of natural herbs used in traditional medicine.

Lunch awaits on the terrace with sweeping views of the rice fields. Next, your journey takes you to the enchanting Kuang Si waterfalls , a cascading marvel with three tiers that tumble into mesmerizing azure pools before continuing downstream. A brief stop at the Bear Rescue Center offers a chance to observe animals rescued from poachers and traffickers. On your return to the hotel, visit the Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Center, a hub where weavers, spinners, and batik artisans create high-quality fabrics and provide insightful tours every half hour. This locale also offers a captivating sunset vista.

Day 17: Luang Prabang

Experience an action-packed single-day adventure with our top activities. Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel at 8:30-9:00 AM, courtesy of our English-speaking guide. Upon arrival at the Elephant Village camp, you’ll be warmly greeted and given a brief introduction to the majestic elephants. 

The highlight of the day is your transformation into a Mahout, the elephant’s trusted guide. With two people per elephant, you’ll receive training on how to communicate and move with your gentle giant Laos-style. A hearty buffet lunch awaits at the Elephant Camp restaurant, complete with vegetarian options.

Post-meal, it’s time for the ultimate thrill – bathing your elephant in the Nam Khan river. A traditional Lao longboat then ferries you to the breathtaking Tad Sae Waterfall . Here, you can relax, dip your feet, or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, though water levels may vary with the seasons. The tour concludes between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM when you’re transferred back to your Luang Prabang hotel, your heart brimming with unforgettable memories.

Day 18: Luang Prabang – Vientien

Depart Luang Prabang by train C81, departing at 12:49 PM and arriving in Vientiane at 3:19 PM. Welcome to the serene capital city of Laos, Vientiane. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city.

As evening descends, immerse yourself in Vientiane’s culinary delights. Start with a refreshing cold beer and mingle with the locals at their post-work gathering spots. Then, navigate through bustling street markets to savor a variety of local delicacies, from noodles to fried insects, barbecued meats to fruity ice cream. Prepare for an authentic gastronomic adventure as you explore the finest Vientiane cuisine.

Begin your evening with a visit to a local beer shop for a relaxing sundowner. Sip on chilled Laotian beer as you watch the sunset over the picturesque Mekong River. These beer shops are popular post-work hangouts, promising an enjoyable atmosphere. As night falls, street vendors fire up their grills and commence their culinary artistry. Take a leisurely walk through Sihom, an area known for its small stalls offering delectable yet affordable snacks. This lively street market is a local favorite, particularly on weekends. Explore the stalls and sample Laotian delights such as Lao-style donuts, steaming noodle dishes, and pork meatball wraps.

Next, make your way to the bustling Ban Anou night market, a food haven in the heart of the city. The market comes alive in the evening, attracting Vientiane’s residents who gather for a meal with friends and family. Stroll through rows of food stalls and rub shoulders with the locals. The market is an ideal place to try exotic snacks like fried insects or savor classic Laotian favorites such as grilled pork skewers. After indulging in savory treats, venture to a hidden sweets shop for dessert, specializing in a unique combination of ice cream and sticky rice that’s oddly delicious. With a satisfied palate, return to your hotel for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 19: Vientien

Commence your exclusive tour at the tranquil Wat Si Saket , the sole temple preserved after the 1828 Thai invasion. Admire its splendor; its airy teak hallways house thousands of miniature Buddha statues. Proceed to Wat Ho Phra Keo and the nearby Presidential Palace for an external architectural appreciation. Explore the revered Wat Si Muang before visiting Laos’ own Arc de Triomphe, the Patuxai monument, offering panoramic city views from its rooftop.

Your journey continues to That Luang, Laos’ most sacred site, with its resplendent golden spire gleaming in the sunlight. After a local restaurant lunch, head to Buddha Park, making a stop to photograph the Friendship Bridge connecting Laos and Thailand. Wander through the Buddha Park’s diverse collection of over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, including a massive 40-meter Reclining Buddha image.

Day 20: Vientien

Following a hearty breakfast, it’s time to head to the airport for your flight back home. Your Vietnam Cambodia Laos 3-week adventure might be concluding, but the indelible memories you’ve collected will remain with you for a lifetime.

Final thoughts

Embarking on the Vietnam Cambodia Laos 3-week itinerary unveils a world of rich history, vibrant cultures, and awe-inspiring landscapes. For those seeking this remarkable adventure, consider securing your journey with Viland Travel’s multi-countries tailor-made tour . With our expert guidance and meticulously planned itinerary, you’ll explore iconic attractions, immerse in local culture, and craft indelible memories. 

Prepare to pack your bags, embrace the thrill of adventure, and let Viland Travel accompany you on this extraordinary odyssey through Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Your ultimate journey awaits.

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How to Plan a 3-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary (2024/2025)

Three weeks is great to have if you want to see most of Thailand and Cambodia's highlights. You could have a fairly long tropical getaway full of sunny beaches, green jungles, adorable elephants, and intricate temples...

In this article, we aim to help you get inspired with our top two highly-praised 3-week Thailand-and-Cambodia travel itineraries, specifically designed for families and couples.

• How to Spend Your 3 Weeks
• 1: for Families/Couples
• 2: for an In-Depth Exploration
• Cost of a 3-Week Thailand and Cambodia Tour

How to Spend Your 3 Weeks in Thailand and Cambodia

When exploring Thailand, your trip would not be complete without Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and an island (usually Phuket or Samui). If you'd like to see Thailand's hidden gems, extend to Chiang Rai, Kanchanaburi, and Ayutthaya.

As Cambodia is relatively small, most travelers to Cambodia typically only visit the well-known Angkor Wat via neighboring Siem Reap. However, to gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia's history and rustic life, consider visiting Phnom Penh and Battambang as well.

Thus, for a 3-week tour, you're suggested to spend around 2 weeks in Thailand and about 1 week in Cambodia. But if you want to focus on exploring Thailand more deeply, you could spend 17 days in Thailand and have a 4-day excursion to Siem Reap. Alternatively, to discover Cambodia more deeply, 13 days in Thailand and 8 days in Cambodia is advisable.

Certainly, if Thailand and Cambodia don't fulfill all your ambitions for exploring Southeast Asia, adding neighboring Vietnam to your 3-week trip is a great option.

Itinerary 1: Explore the Best of Thailand and Cambodia in 3 Weeks

Whether you're a retired couple looking for a relaxing getaway or a family with teenagers seeking adventure, this itinerary is best for you.

With abundant 1-hour flights, you can conveniently reach Siem Reap from Bangkok. So, to keep to a winding-down tour pace, you're suggested to travel in the following sequence: Bangkok – Siem Reap – Chiang Rai – Chiang Mai – Phuket.

Here is the most-chosen itinerary for your reference. You could also let us know your interests and we would happily tailor-make your dream trip .

• Days 1–2: Bangkok, Thailand (Grand Palace, renowned temples, railway market, a longtail boat ride, a foodie tour, Muay Thai)
• Days 3–6: Siem Reap, Cambodia (Angkor Wat, Apsara Dance Show, 1-hour sunset quad bike ride, sunset cocktail on Tonle Sap Lake)
• Days 7–9: Chiang Rai, Thailand (Long Neck Karen Village, White Temple, boat trip to the Golden Triangle, free day)
• Days 10–13: Chiang Mai, Thailand (elephant sanctuary, morning almsgiving, flower market visit, zip-lining through the jungle, Doi Suthep walking tour)
• Days 14–21: Phuket, Thailand (your choice of activities: island hopping, swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, relaxing on beaches)

During your 18 days in Thailand, you'll experience bustling Bangkok, have the chance to marvel at splendid Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, unveil the ethnic cultural hub of Chiang Mai, find tranquility in Chiang Rai, and enjoy lazy or active beach days in Phuket.

You won't want to miss the mouth-watering street food as well, which is especially full of options for vegetarians. Thailand's immersive cultural activities deserve a try, such as Muay Thai, morning almsgiving, and traditional Thai massages.

While families with teenagers can have fun walking with and bathing elephants and zip-lining through jungles in Chiang Mai, retired couples usually enjoy the romantic and tranquil vibe in Chiang Rai.

Phuket is an excellent choice for beach relaxation, particularly for water sports enthusiasts and families with children. You can leisurely soak up the sun on the beach or take an island-hopping tour to surrounding islands, like Similan. However, if you're looking for a more secluded and peaceful island experience, Samui is highly recommended, particularly to celebrate romantic milestone events .

With 3 days in Siem Reap, you can visit Angkor Wat and see rustic floating-village life on Tonle Sap Lake, which are the top reasons to visit Cambodia.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Itinerary 2: Going Beyond the Popular Paths in Thailand and Cambodia in 3 Weeks

If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, this itinerary is for you. In addition to the well-known attractions in Thailand and Cambodia, you can also venture off onto the seldom-trodden paths and explore lesser-known destinations like Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Battambang.

You could check out the following carefully-crafted itinerary for inspiration, or click Create My Trip to customize your ideal trip based on your preferences.

• Days 1–2: Phnom Penh, Cambodia (cyclo trip in Phnom Penh, blessing ceremony by local monks, visit the Killing Fields and Genocide Museum, Khmer Puppet Show)
• Days 3–4: Battambang, Cambodia (rustic life, Bamboo Train, the Killing Caves and Phnom Sampeau Killing Fields, Bat Caves)
• Days 5–7: Siem Reap, Cambodia (Angkor Wat walking tour with a Khmer scholar, 1-hour sunset quad bike ride, Tonle Sap Lake)
• Days 8–10: Bangkok, Thailand (city sightseeing with palaces, temples, and markets, a day trip to Ayutthaya, a free day)
• Days 11–12: Kanchanaburi, Thailand (bridge over the River Kwai, Erawan Falls, overnight stay at a floating house)
• Days 13–16: Chiang Mai, Thailand (elephant sanctuary, trekking through the local villages, Thai massage)
• Days 17–21: Samui, Thailand (5 days of beach time, your choice of activities)

In this itinerary, you'll have a deeper exploration of Cambodia. Beyond the celebrated Angkor Wat, you would extend your explorations to visit Phnom Penh and Battambang.

In Phnom Penh, participating in a blessing ceremony by local monks would create special occasions for couples or families. The Killing Fields and Genocide Museum top bucket lists for history buffs. Do let us know your interests for customizations.

You would see rustic life and take a ride on the famous Bamboo Train in Battambang. At sunset, how cool it would be to witness the spectacle of thousands of bats emerging from the Bat Caves!

In Thailand, some exclusive activities could be customized for you, too. You would take a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, to see the ruins of the old city. Staying at a floating house is an excellent option to enjoy quality private hours during sunsets/sunrises in a hidden valley.

A trekking tour is suggested for outdoor adventures in Chiang Mai. Traveling through the bamboo groves and rainforest, you would meet people of the hill tribes along the way. A traditional Thai massage would definitely be a revitalizing treat after trekking. The photogenic Yi Peng Festival is an added bonus for those travelling on a certain night in November. Contact us to create your own exclusive activities>>>

How Much Does a 3-Week Thailand-and-Cambodia Tour Cost?

For families or couples traveling in Thailand and Cambodia, a private tour customized to your preferences can provide an exclusive and stress-free experience.

Typically, the private tour cost is around US$200–250 per day per person, which includes airfares within Thailand and Cambodia, 4-/5-star hotels, lunches, attractions, private guides, and private transfers. Children under 10 can receive discounts between 30% to 50%.

Thus, for a 3-week private Thailand-Cambodia tour, you would usually need to pay US$14,000–17,000 for a family trip with 2 adults and 2 kids or around US$8,000–10,000 for a couple's trip , excluding the international airfares to and from your home country.

To minimize the expenses, it is advisable to contact us to book at least 6 months in advance for the dry season (November–April) to secure the best deals and enjoy maximum availability. Additionally, inviting family or friends to share costs can result in more savings during the festive/high seasons.

The rainy season (May–October) offers the lowest prices and fewest crowds, with flexible private tours still providing exciting exploration opportunities that dodge the rain and the heat.

Contact Us for Bookings/Inquiries

You are warmly welcomed to have us customize your own trip based on your group size, interests, budgets, and other needs. Sit back and use our Create My Trip service.

In addition to the above itineraries, we also have other itineraries you may be interested in:

• 11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• 14-Day Vietnam and Cambodia Family Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 19-Day Highlights of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

You can find yet more travel itineraries on our Most Popular Southeast Asia Tours page.

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Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

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3 weeks in Vietnam and Cambodia: Complete Travel Guide & Perfect Itinerary

What You’ll Find in this Blog

Planning a 3-week journey to Vietnam is quite easy but it may be too much if in Cambodia due to this country being a bit smaller. It is really a perfect idea to believe that combining two places will maximize your use of your family holiday. This comprehensive travel guide and perfect itinerary will help you plan an unforgettable journey through the highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia. From the best time to visit, visa information, currency details, and a week-by-week itinerary, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

What can you expect in Vietnam and Cambodia for 3 weeks?

A three-week trip to Vietnam and Cambodia offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and historical sites. While they share a land border, it’s recommended to fly between the two countries for convenience and time-saving purposes.

Both Vietnam and Cambodia have a shared history, including the tragic wars that took place in the 1970s. If you’re interested, you can also plan a three-week itinerary that includes Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam to further explore the connections between these countries.

For travelers coming from North and Latin America, the journey to Vietnam and Cambodia can be quite long. However, rest assured that the trip is worthwhile, and you’ll have the opportunity to discover the wonders of these Southeast Asian destinations.

In Cambodia, you’ll have the chance to explore the world-famous Angkor Wat, an impressive temple complex that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Additionally, you can witness the mesmerizing phenomenon of bioluminescent plankton and take a ride on Battambang’s popular bamboo train.

In Vietnam, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of Halong Bay, a stunning seascape of limestone islands. The mountainous region of Sa Pa offers breathtaking landscapes, while the historic city of Hanoi showcases its rich heritage and culture. Both Angkor Wat and Halong Bay are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, highlighting their exceptional value.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Both Vietnam and Cambodia?

In general, the best time to visit both Vietnam and Cambodia is from October to March . However, it’s important to note some specific considerations for each month:

• October and November are the rainy season in Central Vietnam, so be prepared for occasional showers.
• December is winter in northern Vietnam, and it can get quite cold, especially in mountainous regions. The landscape may not be as vibrant, but you can still enjoy the cultural aspects and urban areas.
• January and February are the dry season in both Vietnam and Cambodia, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• March witnesses one of the most beautiful months for outstanding landscapes in Vietnam’s mountains. However, both Vietnam and Cambodia can be crowded during this time, and prices for flights and accommodations may be higher.

Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your expectations and the availability of time for your journey. Consider your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and budget while planning your trip.

Perfect Itinerary for Highlights

To make the most of your trip, we suggest you an overall perfect itinerary that takes you through the highlights of both countries. Whether you’re captivated by ancient temples, stunning landscapes, or vibrant cities, this itinerary offers a well-rounded adventure. So, let’s dive into the details of each week:

Week 1: North Vietnam

• Day 1: Hanoi Arrival
• Day 2: Hanoi City tour
• Day 3: Haniu free time – Evening street food
• Day 4: Hanoi – Pu Luong – Ninh Binh
• Day 5: Hanoi – Ninh Binh – Trang An – Bai Dinh
• Day 6: Ninh Binh – Mua Cave – Biking
• Day 7: Ninh Binh – Hanoi – Fly to Hue

Week 2: Central Vietnam and Siem Reap – Cambodia

• Day 8: Hue City tour
• Day 9: Hue – Marble Mountain – Hoian
• Day 10: Hoian walking – countryside biking
• Day 11: Hoian cooking class
• Day 12: Hoian free time – Fly to Siem Reap
• Day 13: Siem Reap discovery
• Day 14: Siem Reap discovery

Week 3: Siem Reap – Ho Chi Minh City with Cu Chi Tunnels – Mekong Delta

• Day 15: Siem Reap free time
• Day 16: Siem Reap – Fly to Ho Chi Minh City – Evening Vespa tour
• Day 17: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi tunnels
• Day 18: Ho Chi Minh – Mekong Delta – Overnight on Mekong River cruise
• Day 19: Mekong Floating Market – Ho Chi Minh
• Day 20: Ho Chi Minh departure

However, the above is just an overall suggestion for a perfect Vietnam and Cambodia highlight itinerary, for the other specific requirements such as interest in locals, nature or culture, etc. You can absolutely tell them to our local experts and customize your Vietnam and Cambodia tour in 3 weeks that suits you best.

Vietnam and Cambodia Visa

Cambodia is one of the few countries that have straightforward visa rules, which is quite convenient for travelers. Unless your passport is from Southeast Asia (which receives a free visa), you only need to apply for an e-visa online or get a visa upon arrival.

Foreign visitors to Vietnam can also apply for an e-visa online, which is valid for 30 to 90 days. A 30-day e-visa cannot be renewed, but a visa on arrival for 30 to 90 days can be extended.

The visa fee ranges from $25 to $35, depending on the entry port, and the visa is valid for 30 days. When applying online, ensure that you have the correct dates, your flight number, port of entry, a digital passport photo, a bank card for payment, the address of your first hotel, and personal information.

The processing time typically takes between 3 to 7 business days, excluding weekends. So, if you submit your application on a Friday afternoon, you might have to wait until the following Friday. However, if you submit it on Monday, you should receive your e-visa before the end of the week.

For the rest of the world, except Africa, the Middle East, and some South Asian countries, it is necessary to apply for a visa in advance. However, most countries in Latin America, North America, Europe, Central Asia, and Oceania can apply for a 30-day e-visa.

When visiting Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s recommended to carry a mix of US dollars and local currency for convenience. Be sure to have small denominations for easier transactions and to negotiate better prices in local markets.

In Vietnam, the official currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available in major cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Similarly, in Cambodia, the official currency is the Cambodian Riel (KHR). However, the US dollar is widely accepted and preferred for most transactions. ATMs are widely available in cities, and credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments.

Vietnam and Cambodia Electricity Information

When planning your visit to Vietnam and Cambodia, it’s essential to be aware of the electricity information, including the voltage and power plug types in each country.

• The standard voltage: 220V
• Primarily uses two types of power plugs:  Type A (the most common), which consists of two flat pins and Type C, which features two round pins.

For your information: Electricity in Vietnam: What you need to know before your journey

• The standard voltage: 230V
• Primarily uses two types of power plugs: Type A (the most common), which consists of two flat pins and Type C, which features two round pins. (However, type G outlets with three rectangular pins are becoming more prevalent in modern establishments).

it’s important to check the power requirements of your electronic devices before your trip. Many modern devices can handle a wide voltage range (usually 100V-240V) and automatically adapt to the local voltage. However, some devices may require a voltage converter to operate correctly.

By bringing a suitable travel adapter and considering the voltage compatibility of your electronic devices, you can easily charge your devices and navigate the electrical systems in Cambodia without any issues.

How many days are enough for Vietnam and Cambodia?

The ideal duration for a combined trip to Vietnam and Cambodia depends on your interests and the places you wish to explore. Generally, a minimum of 10-14 days is recommended to have a meaningful experience in each country. However, if you want to cover more destinations and have a more immersive experience, allocating around 2-3 weeks would be preferable.

Maybe you want to read more: Vietnam and Cambodia 2 Weeks: Perfect Itinerary & Complete Travel Guide

Is 3 weeks too long for Vietnam?

No, 3 weeks is not too long for Vietnam. Vietnam is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and numerous attractions to explore. Within 3 weeks, you’ll have ample time to visit various regions, experience the local culture, enjoy different activities, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the country. It allows for a more relaxed pace of travel and the opportunity to delve deeper into each destination.

How much money do you need for 3 weeks in Vietnam?

The cost of a 3-week trip to Vietnam can vary depending on various factors such as your travel style, accommodation choices, dining preferences, and activities. As a general guideline, a moderate-budget traveler can expect to spend around $50-70 per day on accommodations, food, transportation, and sightseeing.

This estimate can increase if you prefer luxurious accommodations, fine dining, or additional activities. Including flights and other pre-trip expenses, a rough estimate for a 3-week trip to Vietnam would be around $1500-2500 per person.

From Indochina Voyages Team

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