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If you ask someone “What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Cambodia?” the answer is usually Angkor Wat – and who can blame them?
Considered the 8th Wonder of the World and a key archaeological site in Southeast Asia, this magnificent Buddhist temple represents the intricacies of Khmer architecture and the influence that religion has had on the country’s history and culture. It is so treasured throughout Cambodia that it is the main feature on their flag and has inspired numerous brands (you can’t unsee it on the Angkor beer logo).
While visiting Angkor Wat is a must on any Cambodia itinerary, there is much more to discover. Cambodia offers a phenomenal number of fresh experiences that will make you want to extend your time in this beautiful country.
During my time in Southeast Asia, Cambodia really surprised me with its beauty and its incredibly welcoming locals – so much so that I extended my stay twice! To get the most out of your trip, I’ll walk you through some of the best places to visit in Cambodia.
1. Siem Reap
To kick off your trip and experience Angkor Wat from the get-go, start in Siem Reap, a city bursting with French colonial-era architecture, picturesque cafés and vibrant nightlife.
Top things to do in Siem Reap
Angkor Archaeological Park
Once you’ve arrived in the city, buy your pass to the Angkor Archaeological Park. Not only does this grant you access to Angkor Wat, but also to other breathtaking temples such as Bayon, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm (referred to as the ‘Tomb Raider’ temple). I was blown away by these hidden gems, which all offer impressive structural variety, rich history, and quieter crowds in comparison to the loud hustle and bustle of Angkor Wat itself.
Day passes can be purchased in advance via the Angkor Enterprise website for US$37. For ‘temple-running’ at a slower pace, 3-day and 7-day passes are available. Alternatively, tickets can be bought on the day at the ticket office; however, if you’re waking at 4 am to visit at sunrise, queues might be the last thing you want.
The park is quite spread out, so allow yourself plenty of time to get between each temple. If you’re lucky, you’ll even see a monkey or two…
APOPO Visitor Center
Due to the three decades of war Cambodia experienced from the 1960s to the 1990s, there are now estimated to be four to six million landmines and other unexploded ordinance throughout the country, though exact figures remain unknown.
In response, APOPO (Anti-Personnel Mine Detection Product Development Organisation) has created a unique solution of training and utilizing Giant African Rats to detect landmines through their powerful smell. Once detected, landmines can then be removed safely by a team of heroic volunteers.
You can directly support the organization by visiting them, whilst also getting the opportunity to hold the hero rats yourself. Having limited knowledge of the country’s history before visiting, I found this a very eye-opening and interactive way to learn about Cambodia’s tragic past, and how organizations like APOPO are helping the country move forward. Even if you’re not the biggest rodent fan, this experience will definitely change your mind.
Visitor center tours cost US$10 per person and can be booked via APOPO’s website.
Pub Street
Siem Reap is known for its lively walking street, ‘Pub Street’. One of the busiest areas in the city, you won’t be able to miss the neon signs and party music being played from every pub, bar, and restaurant. Whether you’re in search of a drink for as little as US$0.50, or craving Southeast Asian cuisine ranging from traditional Cambodian, Thai, Malaysian, and more, this street has something for everyone.
For a super interesting snack, you’ll see many stalls offering wide selections of grilled insects such as crickets, worms, and even tarantulas. Personally, I found the tarantula quite intimidating, but I would recommend trying it for bragging rights! There’s a good chance we’ll all be eating insect protein in the future so probably best to get a start on it now.
2. Battambang
Situated around three hours south of Siem Reap, Battambang is a great stopover on your way to Phnom Penh and one of the best places to visit in Cambodia for so many reasons. You can book a one-day tour of the below activities through a local tuk-tuk driver or your accommodation.
Top things to do in Battambang
Bamboo Train
The most unique method of transportation in Cambodia, the bamboo ‘train’ is a small platform attached to a motor, originally designed to transport cargo and passengers. Nowadays, it’s used as a fun tourist experience and a way to travel through the glorious rice fields. For the best photos, try to nab a spot at the front so you have uninterrupted views of the vast scenery.
One of the most impressive parts of the bamboo train is watching the locals manually take the locomotive off the tracks whenever a train comes in the opposite direction and put it back together in minutes!
Killing Caves
A heart-wrenching but extremely important sight in Battambang is the Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau. Situated 11km away from the city, these caves are a tragic reminder of when Cambodia was devastated by the Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979.
Previously a murder site, the caves are now one of many somber memorials to everyone who lost their lives during this time. Whilst harrowing, the importance of visiting cannot be overstated.
Bat cave
Just down the hill at sunset every single day, six and a half million bats fly out of the cliff face in unison, forming a ‘black cloud’ in the sky. This is truly one of nature’s most impressive phenomena and is an experience you cannot miss.
Make sure to get here around an hour before the (natural) show starts, and you’ll see local families lining the streets. If you’ve had a long day and need to rest, you can buy a beer for US$1 in exchange for a seat.
3. Phnom Penh
A Cambodia itinerary is not complete without a trip to Phnom Penh. Situated on the Mekong River, the Cambodian capital is home to impactful historic sites, vibrant markets, and crazy nightlife.
Top things to do in Phnom Penh
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields are arguably the most important places to visit during your time in Cambodia. Both serve as powerful reminders of the lives which were destroyed during the Khmer Rouge regime. Experiencing and understanding the history of a place helps you understand the current landscape of a place, which is why the Killing Fields is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.
Once a school, Tuol Sleng was converted into a prison when the communist group rose to power. Throughout the museum are detailed photographs and stories about the prisoners who experienced the atrocities during this dark period. The honest truth is it can be a very harrowing experience (it wasn’t so long ago), so treat yourself with care afterward as this can leave a lasting impact.
Just outside the city lies the Killing Fields, which pays solemn respects to the thousands of people executed there. Entrance to Tuol Sleng costs US$5 per person and the Killing Fields cost US$6 per person.
At both sites, I strongly recommend hiring an audio guide to gain as much insight as possible and hear the heart-breaking stories from the survivors themselves.
Evening cruise
What better way to see the city than a cruise on the famous Mekong?
On board, you can soak up the evening rays whilst you sail past famous landmarks such as the Presidential Palace, all while relaxing to the sounds of traditional Khmer music. Depending on which cruise you book, you can also enjoy a BBQ buffet dinner accompanied by a cocktail.
During the high season, these cruises can get very busy so for the best views and photo opportunities, get there early and sit on the upper deck at the front. This is also where I had the best Margherita of the trip!
Popular Mekong cruises can be booked through Get Your Guide, with customizable packages to include additional amenities.
Explore the city on foot
If you fancy stretching your legs, luckily for you many sights in Phnom Penh are walkable. You can take yourself on a self-guided tour of the Russian Market and the Central Market if you wish to score yourself some cheap souvenirs.
Alternatively, go for a wander to Wat Phnom Daun Penh, a 14th-century Buddhist temple. Next door, you can even spot the Flying Foxes Tree, where if you look up you’ll see hundreds of sleeping bats! These are both some of the best places to visit in Cambodia.
4. Kampot
Heading south from Phnom Penh you’ll reach Kampot, a city famous for pepper plantations, salt fields, and unbeatable seafood. Rarely spoken about, this quaint city is becoming increasingly popular among travelers – and for good reason.
Top things to do in Kampot
Peppercorn plantations
A trip to Kampot isn’t complete without trying its renowned pepper. Hop into a tuk-tuk or rent a scooter to reach La Plantation, where you can enjoy a free guided tour of their grounds. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the peppercorn growing process and even taste the different varieties.
If you’re brave, I recommend trying the peppercorn-flavored ice cream, which adds a spicy twist to the classic treat.
Even though the tour is free, take some extra cash with you to buy a delicious souvenir at their gift shop. If you try the salted pepper, you are guaranteed to take some home with you.
Bokor National Park
If you’re a Stephen King fan, Bokor National Park is a must-visit. Nestled on top of a mountain, this eerie, misty park was once a popular European tourist spot during the French Colonial rule.
Now, despite ongoing renovation plans, you’ll find countless abandoned buildings, including hotels, religious monuments, and an entire village which you can freely explore. This is already one of the best places to visit in Cambodia and will only get better.
During the rainy season, head off the main track towards Popokvil waterfall. Entry is US$0.50 and you’re almost guaranteed to have the whole place to yourself. If you continue past the main path towards the waterfall and venture slightly through the forest, you’ll come out onto a series of rocks that provide you with the most amazing views and Instagram-worthy pictures!
For those who are uncomfortable with renting a scooter, tuk-tuks can be hired for the day to take you up the mountain and between each landmark.
Kep crab market
Around 20 minutes from Kampot you’ll find Kep, a peaceful seaside town with a bustling seafood market. Inside the market, there are hundreds of stalls offering a wide variety of fish and shrimp, but most importantly, the freshest and most delicious crab. The shockingly tasty crab is the major reason why the Kep crab market is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia.
As there are minimal signs on the stalls and the atmosphere can be overwhelming, you will need to talk to each vendor to negotiate a price (try to stick to the US$5-8 range) and ask them to prepare the crab for you.
Getting around Cambodia
The easiest way to travel between regions in Cambodia is by bus, which can be booked online via third-party websites such as 12Go or through bus companies directly such as Vireak Buntham. In Southeast Asia, booking in advance is not always necessary – it depends on your travel style!
In terms of getting around within cities, I would highly recommend learning how to ride a scooter if you’re comfortable. This allows you more freedom to go off the beaten track, ride through rural villages, and experience life more like a local.
Don’t worry if the thought of hopping on a motorbike daunts you; the Grab app is a handy tool for booking affordable tuk-tuks and taxis. You can also hail local tuk-tuks; just remember to negotiate a price before you jump in!
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