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We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most unforgettable, underrated destinations. Everything you could want from a trip is all wrapped up into one country, from ancient temples to historic buildings to pristine island beaches that stretch for miles.
If you’re currently in the process of planning your next backpacking trip, we’ve got you covered. Our ultimate 10 day Cambodia itinerary will show you how to make the most of embracing the culture, adventure and a little bit of relaxation. Don’t worry, we have you covered for all the big ticket items too!
As there’s so much to see, this itinerary is easy to adapt, especially if you’re including Cambodia as part of a longer trip in Southeast Asia and want to spend some time relaxing on its islands, or spending more time on the mainland if the rainy season puts a pin in your plans.
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Before you go: Visiting Cambodia
Best time of year to visit Cambodia
The most pleasant time to visit Cambodia is between November and March, when temperatures are cooler and the weather is drier. Otherwise, the hot season runs from April to May, which is more bearable once you reach the islands, however, the scorching heat will make temple visits very exhausting, especially with the amount of walking you’ll find yourself doing.
Personally, I always end up visiting during the rainy season (which typically runs between June to October). Although the rain doesn’t massively impact my trip, there are times when tours are cancelled, getting to the islands is trickier, and I had many occasions when I booked hotel rooms just to dry all of my clothes.
Getting around Cambodia
Much like the rest of Southeast Asia, the best way to get between cities is by bus. Booking public transport is incredibly easy through third-party websites such as 12Go or through bus companies directly, such as Vireak Buntham. In some of the destinations below, especially the more rural regions, I recommend learning how to ride a scooter, if you feel comfortable.
However, I’m a big advocate of fun, but safe travel, so if the thought of hopping onto a motorbike scares the life out of you, then it’s not the end of the world. Most places in Cambodia offer Grab, or local tuk-tuks you can hail down – just remember to negotiate a price before jumping in.
Ultimate 10 day Cambodia itinerary
Day 1-3: Siem Reap
Kickstart your Cambodia experience in Siem Reap, the home of jaw-dropping ancient temples, culture and lively nightlife. You can easily access Siem Reap by plane from regional hubs like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, or overland from Laos.
The main reason 99 percent of people stopover in Siem Reap is to witness Angkor Wat at sunrise, commonly referred to as ‘the eighth wonder of the world’.
Temple running
Alongside visiting Angkor Wat (which is a must), you can spend some time getting a tuk-tuk around Angkor Archaeological Park to see the many other incredible temples scattered throughout the jungle. From the tree-entangled ruins of Ta Prohm to the impressive faces of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, each site has its own unique atmosphere and history.
I recommend starting at around 4-5 am to get the best lighting at Angkor Wat as the sun slowly rises behind the structure, before moving on to the other sites to beat the merciless midday Cambodian heat.
If you want to make the most of your trip, I’d recommend joining a small group tour (many of which include sunrise). This way, you won’t simply be admiring the beauty, but actively learning about these living breathing Buddhist temples.
Visit the APOPO rats and have an Angkor beer on Pub Street
After a busy day of temple hopping, find a tuk-tuk and head to the APOPO Visitor Center. Standing for Anti-Personnel Mine Detection Product Development Organisation, APOPO is a non-profit that trains African giant pouched rats, affectionately known as HeroRATs, to detect landmines.
At the center, you’ll get an eye-opening look at Cambodia’s landmine problem and see firsthand how these highly intelligent rats are helping to save lives. It’s a meaningful, educational stop that gives you a unique insight into the country’s ongoing resilience to move forward from its dark past.
In the evening, check out the iconic Pub Street for a mix of buzzing bars, live music, and street food vendors serving everything from delicious skewers to crispy fried insects (if you’re feeling brave). Here, you can try the locals’ favorite Angkor beer, with some bars offering a pint for as little as $0.50. If you’re traveling solo, Siem Reap is one of the friendliest towns in the region – and you can easily hop on a pub crawl to make the most of your night (and some new friends!).
Day 4-5: Phnom Penh
After a six-hour minibus ride (or quick 30 minute flight), you’ll arrive in the bustling capital, Phnom Penh. Despite the flashing lights, distant skyscrapers and markets, this stop is ideal for diving more into Cambodia’s tragic, but important history.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields
Both of these tourist attractions offer a sobering but essential insight into Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once a high school turned into Security Prison 21 (S-21), documents the harrowing experiences of the thousands who were imprisoned, tortured, and executed there. Graphic photos, personal stories, and preserved cells paint a powerful picture of the horror of the regime.
A visit to the Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, just outside Phnom Penh, helps you to understand more about this dark period. Walking through the quiet grounds, where mass graves were uncovered, and standing before the memorial stupa filled with victims’ skulls is a deeply moving experience. Even though both sites are extremely upsetting, they are crucial for remembering the victims and ensuring history does not repeat itself.
I recommend joining a small group tour to take these experiences alongside personal stories, often including firsthand accounts from the survivors themselves.
Day 5-7: Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem
It’s time to escape the big city and start living the island life. After leaving Phnom Penh, you’ll travel to Sihanoukville and catch a ferry to either Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem. Both offer some of the world’s most beautiful beaches with turquoise water, great nightlife and plenty of day activities.
Before booking your ferry, I strongly recommend checking the weather and your itinerary, as Cambodian operators are strict about running boat services when storms are predicted, so be careful not to get stuck. That being said, if you don’t have a flight to catch, these islands aren’t the worst places to be stranded.
Have a night to remember (or forget) at Nestival
Nestival, hosted every Saturday by Nest Beach Club, is one of the most popular events on Koh Rong.
Even if you’re not much of a drinker, the event is a great opportunity to meet fellow travelers, play team games on the beach and enjoy lively music as the sun goes down. The club often hosts international DJs, with themed events, fire shows, and beachside dancing that carry on late into the night. It’s also one of the top spots to celebrate Khmer New Year, when the island comes alive with water fights, traditional performances, and a buzzing, carefree atmosphere you won’t forget.
Spend your time relaxing, snorkeling and exploring
Both Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem can be easily navigated on a moped, making it simple to discover quiet beaches and the best snorkelling spots.
On Koh Rong in particular, you have beautiful beaches at your fingertips, with spots such as Long Set Beach, Sok San Beach and Coconut Beach a short drive away. If you’re seeking a more nature-focused experience, Lonely Beach is one of the most isolated places on the island (hence the name). Here, many visitors gather to witness bioluminescent plankton at night; arguably one of the most unique natural phenomena I’ve ever seen.
Day 7-9: Kampot and Kep
Once you’ve rejuvenated and refreshed, it’s time to head back to the mainland, where you’re set to have an adventurous couple of days. Via Sihanoukville, I recommend taking the train, rather than a minibus, over to the city of Kampot. The train journey provides you with some of Cambodia’s most incredible scenery, as well as providing you with the opportunity to experience its very unique rail network, as all trips are in just one single carriage.
Try Kampot’s famous pepper
Grown in the surrounding hills and prized by chefs around the globe, Kampot pepper comes in black, red, and white varieties, each with its own rich, aromatic profile. Visit one of the local pepper plantations, such as La Plantation, to see the growing process firsthand and explore their gift shop to try out different samples.
I personally love the salted black pepper the most, which works amazingly as an ingredient but is equally as delicious on its own.
Ride up to Bokor National Park
Either hop on a scooter or hire a tuk-tuk for the day to take the winding road up to Bokor National Park. Once a French hill station, the park now draws visitors with its misty views over the Gulf of Thailand, an abandoned Catholic church, and the ghostly Bokor Palace Hotel. At the top, you can spend your day riding between various spooky buildings, each with its own unique history and great places for a Stephen King-inspired photoshoot.
The ride itself is part of the adventure, with smooth switchbacks, plenty of viewpoints, and even the occasional monkey crossing your path (or around 40 in my experience).
Find delicious seafood at Kep crab market
Just a short drive from Kampot, Kep’s famous crab market is a fascinating way to see how the locals live, all while getting your hands on some of the freshest, tastiest seafood. As there is very little signage in this market, you’ll need to talk to various vendors to confirm a price and ask whether they can cook it for you.
I might be biased, as the crab is my top pick, but you’ll also find stalls serving up shrimp, squid, and fish. Or grab a seat at one of the seaside restaurants and enjoy stunning views across the sea as you eat.
If you’re unsure of what price you should be aiming for here, I recommend sticking to around US$5-8 during your negotiations, depending on the size of the animal.
Day 10: Back to Phnom Penh
A two-hour minibus will take you back to the capital, and ready to finish off your 10 day Cambodia itinerary.
Finish your trip with a sunset cruise
One bittersweet way to end your time in this beautiful country is to treat yourself to a sunset cruise that takes you down the famous Mekong. As the golden rays descend over the city, you’ll have the chance to see Phnom Penh from a new perspective, with towering skyscrapers sparkling in the distance while you sail past ancient temples and the Royal Palace.
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