7 Days Cambodia Itinerary

Cambodia, the heart of Southeast Asia, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant urban culture. Home to the world-famous Angkor Wat, this country offers travelers an unforgettable mix of historical grandeur, serene countryside, pristine beaches, and bustling city life. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or someone looking for a relaxing getaway, Cambodia has something for everyone.

This 7-day Cambodia itinerary is designed to cover the best of the country, taking you through Siem Reap, where the majestic Angkor temples stand; Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s dynamic capital with a poignant history; Kampot, a charming riverside town known for its French colonial architecture and world-famous pepper; and Koh Rong, a tropical paradise with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.

By following this itinerary, you’ll experience Cambodia’s rich past, indulge in its flavorful cuisine, interact with friendly locals, and relax on stunning islands. Whether it’s witnessing a sunrise at Angkor Wat, exploring Phnom Penh’s royal landmarks, cruising through Kampot’s scenic rivers, or swimming in the bioluminescent waters of Koh Rong, this itinerary promises a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

✅ November–April (Dry Season): The best time to explore Cambodia, with sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and ideal conditions for visiting temples, cities, and islands. Expect peak tourist crowds, especially in Siem Reap.

✅ May–October (Green Season): A less crowded period with lush green landscapes and lower prices. Rain showers are common but usually short, making it a great time to experience Cambodia’s natural beauty with fewer tourists.

Day 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh & Explore the Capital

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, is a city where history, culture, and modern vibrancy collide. From its golden palaces to its sobering historical sites, your first day here will be a deep dive into the country’s past and present.

Morning: History & Culture

Start your Cambodian adventure with a cultural and historical immersion:

• Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda 🏯
  Begin your day at the Royal Palace, an iconic landmark showcasing traditional Khmer architecture. The palace is still the official residence of Cambodia’s King, making it a significant cultural site. Within its grounds, visit the Silver Pagoda, named for its shimmering silver floor tiles. Inside, you’ll find the Emerald Buddha and a life-sized golden Buddha adorned with thousands of diamonds.
• National Museum of Cambodia
  Just a short walk from the Royal Palace, this museum houses a vast collection of Khmer art, sculptures, and ancient artifacts dating back to the Angkor era. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Cambodia’s rich artistic heritage.

Afternoon: Dark History & Local Markets

The afternoon takes a somber turn as you explore Cambodia’s more recent and tragic history.

• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)
  A visit to this former school-turned-prison is a haunting but essential experience to understand the Khmer Rouge’s brutal regime. The museum provides powerful exhibits, survivor stories, and preserved cells that document one of Cambodia’s darkest periods.
• Russian Market
  After an emotional visit to S-21, lighten the mood by heading to Phsar Tuol Tom Poung, commonly known as the Russian Market. This bustling market is a great place to shop for handcrafted souvenirs, antiques, silver jewelry, and textiles. Don’t forget to try local street food like nom pang (Cambodian sandwiches) and fresh tropical fruits.

Evening: Riverside & Sunset Cruise

• Sisowath Quay
  Before dinner, take a leisurely walk along Sisowath Quay, a lively riverside promenade lined with cafés, bars, and street performers. It’s a perfect spot to soak in Phnom Penh’s nightlife.
• Mekong River Sunset Cruise
  End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mekong River. Many boat tours offer dinner, cocktails, and traditional dance performances, allowing you to unwind while enjoying breathtaking views of Phnom Penh’s illuminated skyline.

Day 2: Travel to Siem Reap – Gateway to Angkor

Siem Reap is the jumping-off point for Angkor Wat, but this vibrant town offers much more than just temples. From floating villages to bustling night markets, today’s itinerary introduces you to Siem Reap’s charm.

Morning: Travel to Siem Reap

You have two options for getting from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap:

By Flight (1 hour) – The fastest and most convenient option.
By Bus (6 hours) – A budget-friendly way to see Cambodia’s countryside.

Upon arrival, check into a boutique hotel or resort near Pub Street, where you’ll be close to restaurants, nightlife, and markets.

Afternoon: Tonle Sap Floating Village

After settling in, embark on a half-day trip to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.

• Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas
  Visit one of the floating villages, where stilt houses rise above the water, and locals rely on fishing for their livelihood. As you cruise through the village, you’ll see floating schools, temples, and even crocodile farms.
• Sunset at Phnom Bakheng
  Before heading back to town, stop at Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple with panoramic views of Angkor Wat and the surrounding jungle. It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Siem Reap.

Evening: Night Market & Khmer Dinner

• Dinner at Khmer Kitchen or Malis Restaurant
  Enjoy a delicious Cambodian meal at one of Siem Reap’s best eateries. Try Amok (a coconut curry dish), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), and fresh spring rolls.
• Siem Reap Night Market & Pub Street
  Wrap up your day by exploring the Siem Reap Night Market, where you can shop for handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Later, head to Pub Street, the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife, filled with bars, live music, and street performances.

This marks the perfect end to your second day in Cambodia before diving into the wonders of Angkor Wat the next morning.

Day 4: Siem Reap to Kampot – Countryside Escape

After exploring the grandeur of Angkor, the journey continues to the peaceful riverside town of Kampot. This laid-back destination is known for its colonial charm, lush countryside, and world-famous pepper plantations.

Morning: Travel to Kampot

• Take a morning flight to Phnom Penh, followed by a 3-hour drive to Kampot.
• Enjoy views of rice fields, rural villages, and local markets along the way.
• Check into a riverside guesthouse or a boutique hotel.

Afternoon: Kampot’s Riverside Charm

• Explore Kampot’s French colonial streets, lined with well-preserved buildings.
• Visit a Kampot pepper farm to learn about the cultivation and production process.
• Taste different varieties of black, red, and white Kampot pepper, prized in fine dining.

Evening: Sunset River Cruise

• Take a leisurely sunset cruise along the Kampot River.
• Enjoy views of mangroves, distant mountains, and local fishermen at work.
• Experience a firefly-watching tour, where glowing insects light up the riverbanks.

Day 4: Siem Reap to Kampot – Countryside Escape

After immersing yourself in the ancient wonders of Angkor, it's time for a change of scenery. Kampot, a laid-back riverside town, offers a charming mix of colonial history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. The journey itself is scenic, passing through Cambodia’s rural landscapes.

Morning: Travel to Kampot

• Take a morning flight from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, which takes about an hour.
• From Phnom Penh, embark on a 3-hour drive to Kampot, passing through quaint villages, palm-lined roads, and traditional Khmer homes.
• For a more budget-friendly and scenic option, take a 6-hour bus or minivan directly from Siem Reap to Kampot.
• Check into a riverside bungalow, eco-lodge, or French-colonial-style hotel for a peaceful stay.

Afternoon: Kampot’s Riverside Charm

• Stroll through Kampot’s Old Quarter, where colonial buildings are painted in pastel shades and remnants of French architecture give the town a timeless feel.
• Visit a local Kampot pepper farm, one of the region’s most famous exports. Learn about the cultivation process and taste the different varieties of black, red, and white pepper, which are highly sought after by chefs worldwide.
• Take a short detour to Salt Fields of Kampot, where you can witness the traditional methods of salt harvesting.

Evening: Sunset River Cruise

• Board a traditional wooden boat for a sunset cruise on the Kampot River.
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Bokor Mountain, mangrove forests, and local fishing villages along the riverbanks.
• Witness fireflies illuminating the trees, a magical sight as night falls.
• Opt for a BBQ dinner on board, or head to one of Kampot’s many riverside restaurants for fresh seafood and local specialties.

Day 5: Explore Kampot & Kep

Today, explore the rugged beauty of Bokor National Park, before heading to Kep, a charming seaside town known for its tranquil beaches and world-class seafood. The day is a perfect mix of adventure, nature, and relaxation.

Morning: Bokor National Park

• Start the day with a scenic drive up Bokor Mountain, where cooler temperatures and misty landscapes provide a refreshing break from the heat.
• Bokor Hill Station Explore the eerie abandoned French colonial outpost, once a luxurious retreat for the elite. Wander through the Old Casino, Catholic Church, and Bokor Palace, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding forests and coastline.
• Wat Sampov Pram (Five Boats Pagoda) A peaceful Buddhist temple perched on the cliffs, offering spectacular views over the Gulf of Thailand. The temple is named after its unique rock formations, which resemble boats.
• Popokvil Waterfall A multi-tiered waterfall nestled deep in the jungle, perfect for relaxing and taking photos. During the rainy season, the falls are at their most impressive.

Afternoon: Kep’s Fresh Seafood & Beaches

• Kep Crab Market A must-visit for seafood lovers, where you can watch fishermen bring in fresh crabs straight from the sea. Try the famous Kampot Pepper Crab, cooked in a delicious blend of spices.
• Kep Beach Unwind on this quiet, crescent-shaped beach, away from Cambodia’s more crowded coastal spots. Swim in the calm, shallow waters, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
• Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) (Optional Adventure) Take a 20-minute boat ride to this off-the-beaten-path tropical paradise. Enjoy a secluded beach, fresh seafood, and hammocks strung between palm trees. Explore the island on foot or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.

Evening: Relax & Enjoy Kampot’s Cafés

• Return to Kampot and spend the evening at one of its cozy riverside cafés.
• Try locally grown Kampot coffee or unwind with a Khmer-style BBQ dinner, where meats and seafood are grilled tableside.
• If you’re in the mood for nightlife, Kampot has live music bars, rooftop lounges, and riverside pubs offering a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.

Day 6: Kampot to Koh Rong – Beach Escape

After experiencing the charm of Kampot’s riverside and Kep’s seafood delights, it’s time to head to Cambodia’s stunning coastline. Koh Rong, an idyllic island with pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungles, offers the perfect tropical escape.

Morning: Travel to Koh Rong

• Take an early morning bus or private taxi from Kampot to Sihanoukville (around 2 hours).
• From Sihanoukville, board a speedboat to Koh Rong, which takes approximately 45 minutes.
• Upon arrival, check into a beachfront resort or a secluded bungalow for an immersive island experience.

Afternoon: Relax on White Sand Beaches

• Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Koh Rong’s most beautiful beaches: Long Set Beach (4K Beach) – A long stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming. Sok San Beach – Known for its tranquil vibes and fewer crowds, perfect for unwinding.
• Try snorkeling or kayaking in the shallow turquoise waters, where you might spot tropical fish and colorful coral reefs.
• If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, rent a paddleboard or take a jet ski ride along the coast.

Evening: Bioluminescent Plankton Tour

• As night falls, embark on a bioluminescent plankton tour, one of Koh Rong’s most magical experiences.
• Take a short boat ride away from the shore, where the dark waters light up with glowing plankton when disturbed.
• Swim in the glowing sea for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• After the tour, enjoy a beachfront dinner at one of the island’s laid-back restaurants, savoring fresh seafood and tropical cocktails under the stars.

Day 7: Beach Relaxation & Return to Phnom Penh

On the final day of your Cambodia adventure, wake up to the sound of gentle waves and enjoy the island’s serene atmosphere before making your way back to Phnom Penh.

Morning: Explore Koh Rong’s Hidden Spots

• Take a morning hike to Prek Svay Village, one of Koh Rong’s traditional fishing communities, to experience local island life.
• If you prefer adventure, try ziplining through the jungle canopy, offering breathtaking island views.
• For nature lovers, explore the hidden waterfalls of Koh Rong, which become more prominent during the rainy season.

Afternoon: Return to Phnom Penh

• Board a speedboat back to Sihanoukville and then take either: A bus (4–5 hours) back to Phnom Penh, ideal for budget travelers. A domestic flight (45 minutes) from Sihanoukville to Phnom Penh, perfect for saving time.
• Upon arrival, check into your hotel for a final night in the capital.

Evening: Final Night in Phnom Penh

• Visit Wat Phnom, a historic temple perched on a small hill, offering a peaceful escape with panoramic city views.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at Romdeng, a social enterprise restaurant that serves traditional Khmer cuisine while supporting local communities.
• If time permits, explore Phnom Penh’s vibrant nightlife, with options ranging from rooftop bars to riverside lounges.

This 7-day Cambodia itinerary offers a perfect mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. From the iconic Angkor Wat to pristine beaches and colonial towns, you’ll experience Cambodia’s best.

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