Ultimate 2-Week Cambodia Itinerary! The Most Comprehensive Travel Route and Highlights!

Looking for a perfect 2-week Cambodia Itinerary? Well, after travelling around Cambodia for a whole month and living and working there teaching English, I have the best recommendations for you.

Cambodia is an unforgettable country. It has a past of darkness and sorrow, with a bandaid of kind-hearted people, beautiful islands, incredible architectural wonders and lots to explore.

Despite a harrowing recent history marred by mass genocide and unimaginable suffering, Cambodia is renowned for its people, often described as the friendliest, kindest and most hospitable people in the world.

This resilience is a testament to their warmth, generosity, and kindness, making them a shining example for humanity. Alongside its compelling human spirit, Cambodia boasts a breathtaking natural beauty that beckons exploration.

Where Is Cambodia Located?

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, Cambodia shares borders with Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. It is a well-trodden route that most young backpackers take for their first time travelling, as it is relatively safe and has many people following the same route.

How to Travel to Cambodia

Getting to Cambodia is easier than you might think. Most travellers arrive via Phnom Penh International Airport or Siem Reap International Airport. If you’re already in the region, you could opt for a scenic bus ride from neighbouring countries.

Getting Around Cambodia:

Once you’re in Cambodia, travelling between cities is relatively straightforward. Public buses, private taxis, and tuk-tuks are popular modes of transportation, offering you flexibility and affordability.

How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Cambodia?

Cambodia is a budget-friendly destination for travellers seeking quality experiences without breaking the bank.

Costs to Consider:

• Flights: Depending on your departure city, roundtrip flights to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap can cost between $400 to $800.
• Accommodation: Cambodia offers many accommodations, from luxury resorts to cosy guesthouses. Prices vary, but decent guesthouses can be found for as little as $5 to $20 per night.
• Food: Indulge in Cambodia’s delicious cuisine without worrying about your wallet. A meal at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2 to $5.
• Tours and Activities: Temple tours, jungle treks, and boat trips are popular in Cambodia. Guided tours and activities cost between $10 and $50.

Best Time of Year to Travel Here

The best time to visit Cambodia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you’ll enjoy sunny days and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for exploring temples and outdoor activities. However, remember that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May to October). Although you might experience some rain, you’ll benefit from lower prices and fewer tourists.

THE CAMBODIA ITINERARY ROUTE

SIEM REAP – 2 Nights

Depending on your route, Siem Reap is easily accessible by bus or plane from Vietnam and Thailand. This large town has something for everyone.

In Siem Reap, there are everything from street parties and all-night bars to teaching and volunteering opportunities with orphans. I did them all, maybe a little too much of the partying, but I was young, wild, and 18 then, so why not?

In contrast, Siem Reap is also home to one of the world’s most incredible spiritual architectural wonders: Angkor Wat.

Ensure you get an early night and are fresh enough to see this at sunrise. Roaming the grounds of this UNESCO complex was beautiful, sacred, and fascinating.

As an architecture fanatic, I was taken away by the sheer size, intricacy and grandeur of Angkor Wat! I would travel back to Cambodia just to see this again.

The markets in Siem Reap are also great and perfect for jewellery lovers. Grab a bike, ride around and get lost. It was safe enough and an ideal town to do so.

I would look into volunteering here as well. I volunteered at an orphanage teaching English, and it was a life-changing, humbling experience.

Example Siem Ream Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Siem Reap:

After settling into your accommodation, take some time to explore the lively Pub Street and Night Market. Here, you can indulge in delicious local cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, and dance the night away—if you wish!

Day 2: Angkor Wat Sunrise and Temples Tour:

Rise early to catch the unforgettable sunrise over Angkor Wat, the UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s most significant archaeological wonders.

Spend the day exploring other enchanting temples, such as Bayon, Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple), and Banteay Srei. Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and mysteries of these ancient structures. It would not be a 2-week Cambodia Itinerary without an Angkor Wat Sunrise!

Day 3: Floating Village and Artisans d’Angkor:

Discover the floating village of Kampong Phluk, where you can experience the unique way of life of the locals who reside on the Tonle Sap Lake. In the afternoon, visit Artisans d’Angkor, a social enterprise supporting traditional Cambodian arts and crafts! Witness skilled artisans at work, creating exquisite, handcrafted items.

TOP TIP: If you want to do this in exchange for free accommodation and food, I highly recommend Work Away or Worldpackers!

If you have time, I highly recommend getting involved with some volunteering or teaching projects. There are so many around Siem Reap; it was an enriching and fantastic experience!

BATTAMBANG – 1 Night

Day 1: Travel to Battambang

Day 1: Take a scenic drive to Battambang, a charming town known for its French colonial architecture and artistic scene. Visit the Bamboo Train (Norry), a quirky and thrilling way to explore the countryside. Don’t miss the Bat Cave, where you can witness millions of bats emerging at sunset, creating a mesmerising natural spectacle.

Day 2: Exploring Battambang:

Uncover Battambang’s rural charm with a cycling tour through picturesque villages and rice paddies. Engage with friendly locals and experience the authentic Cambodian way of life. In the evening, visit Phare Ponleu Selpak, an inspiring NGO promoting performing arts among disadvantaged youth, for an entertaining circus show.

PHNOM PENH – 2 Nights

I feel it’s easy to try and overlook the darker sides of history when travelling, but I feel it’s essential to educate yourself on past tragedies. It’s important to pay respects to the local people.

The mass genocide the Cambodian people experienced was devastating. People were brutally murdered and tortured if they had any education. Their leader, Pol Pot, and his group, the Khmer Rouge, are thought to have killed up to 2 million people from 1975 to 1979.

It is heartbreaking to think that nearly a quarter of Cambodia’s population was lost. We can’t begin to imagine the impact of such events. Many families lost up to half of their family in just a matter of years.

To think this only happened 50 years ago makes it even more shocking. Paying your respects to the local people and their devastating losses is a sobering but crucial part of your Cambodia itinerary.

I even met one of the last survivors and bought his book, ‘Survivor’ (pictured above), which I highly recommend. All the proceeds go back to rebuilding Cambodia and its survivors’ lives.

Example: Phnom Penh Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Cultural Immersion

• Arrive in Phnom Penh and check into your accommodation.
• In the afternoon, visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about Cambodia’s royal history.
• Evening: Stroll along the riverside promenade and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Have dinner at a local restaurant to sample authentic Cambodian cuisine.

Day 2: Historical Sites and Museums

• Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21). Learn about the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge regime and pay tribute to the victims.
• Mid-morning: Head to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located just outside the city. Take a guided tour to gain insight into the area’s dark history.
• Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Cambodia to explore a vast collection of Khmer art and artefacts.
• Evening: Relax at a rooftop bar or restaurant to enjoy the city’s skyline while reflecting on the day’s experiences.

Day 3: Local Experiences and Markets

• Morning: Take a tuk-tuk ride to the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung). Bargain for souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts among the bustling stalls.
• Mid-morning: Visit Wat Phnom, the city’s iconic temple on a small hill. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and learn about its history.
• Explore the Central Market (Phsar Thmey) in the afternoon and indulge in local street food. Don’t miss trying some delicious Cambodian snacks.
• Evening: Take a sunset boat cruise on the Mekong River to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy the cool breeze.

Optional Day 4: Half-Day Excursion

• Silk Island (Koh Dach): Visit local silk farms and witness traditional silk weaving.
• Phnom Chisor: Climb to the top of this hilltop temple for panoramic countryside views.
• Udong: Explore the ancient temples and stupas on the outskirts of Phnom Penh.

THE CAMBODIAN ISLANDS – 5 Nights

Forget the ‘lads on tour’ culture of the Thai islands! The Cambodian islands are the true authentic island paradises in Southeast Asia.

Sadly, the coastal town where you get the boat, Siaknouville, has changed beyond measure in the past six years. It was once a great little hippy seaside community of beachfront hostels. It has become a sea of concrete skyscrapers and casinos in a few years.

However, you can still get a slice of the ultimate island life on the islands off it. There are 3 I can recommend for your Cambodia itinerary.

Book your tickets below!

KOH RONG

Koh Rong is known mainly as ‘The party island’. But don’t let that put you off, it’s nowhere near as crazy as the Thai islands.

If you’re looking for entertainment and bars, stay along where you get off the boat. Most of the bars and guesthouses are there. If it’s peacefulness and luxury you are after, the other side of the island is quieter and more ‘resorty’. There are some incredible beachfront hotels. If you have the money to splurge, try Sweet Dreams Koh Rong.

The islands have beautiful, clear turquoise waters and a relaxed vibe. They are a paradise, far, far away from the “drunk backpacker culture” that the Thai islands have become known for.

KOH RONG SAMLOEM

For me, Koh Rong Samloem (The smaller island) was the highlight of my trip. Situated on M’pai Bay was a quaint fishing village with no Wi-Fi back then and just a few shacks and hostel huts. However, it is more popular now.

This barely discovered little village will capture your soul and make you never want to leave. The only place, in my opinion, to stay is The Chill Inn. It’s got a great beach bar and guesthouse with everything from dorms to private bungalows for you to stay in.

KOH KONG

However, if you are still looking for authentic and remote, like these islands felt when I was there 6 years ago, your best bet now is Koh Kong! It is still relatively off the beaten path, the most remote and undeveloped of the three islands.

You can also take day trips to these islands and the others to base yourself on one of your preferred choices. These islands are, without a shadow of a doubt, some of the best places to visit in Cambodia, if not Southeast Asia!

KAMPOT & KEP – 3 Nights

From the Islands, you may want to visit a little hillside village called Kampot.
Kampot also makes an excellent base for exploring Bokor National Park, the neighbouring seaside town of Kep, and the surrounding area’s superb cave temples and abundant countryside. 

One or two nights would be sufficient to create a break in the travel from Sihanoukville back up to the capital, PHNOM PENH, to fly to Bangkok or onwards on your journey.

Kampot & Kep Example Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kampot and River Cruise

• Morning: Arrive in Kampot and check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll through Kampot’s charming streets, lined with colonial-era buildings. Visit the Kampot Market to experience the local hustle and bustle.
• Late Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing river cruise along the Kampot River, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes.
• Evening: Head to the Crab Market to savour delicious fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.

Day 2: Kampot’s Nature and Pepper Plantations

• Morning: Visit Bokor National Park and explore its natural beauty. Take a guided tour to see the Popokvil Waterfall and enjoy panoramic views from the Bokor Hill Station.
• Afternoon: Discover Kampot’s famous pepper plantations. Take a tour to learn about the region’s renowned Kampot pepper and even purchase some to take home.
• Evening: Relax by the riverside or join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Khmer dishes using local ingredients.

Day 3: Kep’s Tranquility and Seafood Delights

• Morning: Travel to Kep, a serene coastal town known for its tranquil ambiance.
• Mid-morning: Visit Kep National Park and hike to the summit of Kep Hill for breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding islands.
• Afternoon: Explore the abandoned villas at the Kep Beach area, remnants of the town’s glory days as a French colonial resort.
• Evening: Treat yourself to a delightful seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants along the coast. The crab and Kampot pepper dishes are must-tries!

Day 4: Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) Excursion:

If you have an extra day, consider taking a short boat trip to Rabbit Island. Enjoy a peaceful day on the island’s idyllic beaches, swim in the clear waters, and savour freshly caught seafood.

Note: Kampot and Kep are known for their relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making them perfect destinations for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of Cambodia’s coastline. They are great destinations to relax, slow travel, and just be. Feel free to adjust this itinerary based on your interests, and take your time to soak in the charm of these quaint towns.

If you enjoyed this travel guide, check out our other Asian travel Guides below!

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