If you only have 7 or 10 days in Cambodia, this efficient Phnom Penh to Siem Reap itinerary covers Angkor, the capital city, and includes optional visits to four lesser-known spots in Cambodia.
Cambodia offers much more than just the temples of Siem Reap and the vibrant city life of Phnom Penh. However, if your time is limited, it’s best to concentrate on the capital and the gateway to Angkor Wat.
These condensed Cambodia itineraries are ideal for those who only have time to explore the highlights of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh. Both itineraries include visits to Cambodia’s largest cities and offer the option to explore four quaint rural towns, either as part of the journey or as extensions for relaxation.
Top 5 Cambodia experiences featured in this itinerary:
- Witness the sunrise at Angkor Wat.
- Experience a traditional Buddhist water blessing in Siem Reap.
- Discover the Khmer Rouge history at Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek.
- Enjoy a local food and craft beer tour of Phnom Penh.
- Attend a traditional Apsara dance performance at the Cambodian Living Arts show.
10 Days in Cambodia: Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Budget: Sla Boutique Hostel is conveniently located in the Riverside area, close to major tourist spots. Envoy Hostel and Mad Monkey in the quieter BKK 1 neighborhood are also good options.
Mid-range: Double Leaf is my preferred hotel in Phnom Penh, situated in the Russian Market area, my favorite district. Alternatively, Point Boutique Hotel offers riverside views, a gin-themed rooftop bar, and proximity to Sisowath Quay.
Boutique: For boutique accommodations, check out Patio, Teahouse, and the new Baitong in the BBK 1 and Street 240 areas.
Luxury: Raffles Le Royal (Riverside) is Phnom Penh’s top luxury hotel, offering an unbeatable experience. For a different vibe, The Balé is a designer hotel located further from the city, providing a serene riverfront setting. Read my review of The Balé.
For more options, consult my detailed Phnom Penh neighborhood and accommodation guide or browse additional properties on Agoda.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Budget: River Bay Villa offers boutique hotel features on a backpacker’s budget. Onederz, a popular hostel in Siem Reap, is next to Angkor Night Market.
Mid-range: Rokkhak River Resort is an oasis with lush grounds, an excellent pool, and comfortable suites. Read my review of Rokkhak.
Boutique: Designer hotel Templation features a deep-water pool and minimalist rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Luxury: Jaya House River Park boasts a stunning outdoor pool, tropical gardens, and luxurious suites.
For additional options, see my list of top Siem Reap hotels and hostels, or browse more properties on Agoda.
Key Considerations for Planning Your Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Itinerary
Traveling by bus or minivan in Cambodia can be time-consuming. Consider flying or chartering a private car and driver for longer journeys, especially from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap.
If you choose the bus, book your tickets online in advance to avoid delays. I recommend 12GoAsia or BookMeBus for purchasing tickets.
Utilize affordable guided tours to enhance your visit. For ideas, check out my list of the best day tours in Phnom Penh and top Siem Reap tours.
If you want to add a third stop between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, ensure it’s a practical choice. Beaches or islands might not be the best use of your time—opt for a small town instead.
Day 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh
Welcome to Phnom Penh! If you’ve pre-booked a private transfer, your driver will be ready to greet you at the airport. Check in at your hotel and settle in.
If you arrive before lunch, take the afternoon to explore. I recommend a leisurely introduction to the city—perhaps a stroll through the vibrant Tuol Tompoung neighborhood or a late-afternoon visit to the Royal Palace, which reopens at 2 pm.
As evening approaches, head to Riverside Park or the area around Independence Monument to join locals for the sunset stroll, a beloved local ritual.
The nightly Cambodian Living Arts performance at the National Museum offers a fantastic introduction to Khmer culture. The one-hour show starts at 7 pm, featuring Apsara dance, traditional Khmer instruments, and beautiful costumes. Tickets tend to sell out, so purchase in advance.
Afterward, walk to Friends the Restaurant to enjoy a menu of Cambodian classics with a European twist. If you’re up for more, head to Juniper Gin Bar for a cocktail with river views, or take a tuk-tuk to Bassac Lane for live music and craft beer.
Day 2: Full Day in Phnom Penh
If you have just one day in Phnom Penh, focus on immersing yourself in the city’s history. Understanding Cambodia’s recent past will enrich your experience and provide a deeper context for your trip.
Choeung Ek, known as The Killing Fields, and Tuol Sleng (S21) are significant historical sites. Choeung Ek was a mass-burial site for political prisoners executed by the Khmer Rouge, while Tuol Sleng was a prison where many prisoners spent their final days. Both sites are now museums where you can learn about the tragic events of the 1970s and pay your respects.
These sites are somber, so consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights. A professional guide can provide context and answer questions, enhancing your visit.
After lunch, explore the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda grounds, or visit the trendy Street 240 area for souvenirs, street art, and cafes.
No visit to Phnom Penh is complete without sampling street food. Khmer cuisine offers more than just exotic snacks—fragrant curries, delicate soups, and plentiful BBQ await. The Lost Plate food and craft beer tour is an excellent way to dive into Cambodian street food.
Days 3-4: Battambang or Kampong Thom
Option A: Battambang
On Day 3, leave Phnom Penh and head west towards Angkor. While flying is the fastest option, you’ll miss the scenic countryside. Spending a night or two in a smaller town offers a glimpse of rural Cambodia.
Battambang, Cambodia’s creative capital, features vibrant arts and French colonial architecture. It’s 300 km west of Phnom Penh. For a quick transfer, take a minivan with Mekong Express, which costs $12 and takes 5 hours. Alternatively, hire a private taxi for $75-$160, allowing for flexible stops along the way.
Explore Battambang by bicycle, admire its French architecture, and visit local galleries like Romcheik 5. Enjoy dinner at Jaan Bai and relax by the pool at Bamboo Hotel.
On Day 4, spend the morning in Battambang before taking the 2 pm bus to Siem Reap. The bus ride takes 3 hours and costs $8.
Where to Stay in Battambang:
The Sanctuary Villa offers a large pool, leafy gardens, and open-air pavilions on the town’s edge. The Place, centrally located, provides budget-friendly dorms and private rooms.
Option B: Kampong Thom
If your main goal is to see temples, Kampong Thom is a worthwhile stop. The area boasts some of Cambodia’s oldest temples. Sambour Village, a riverside settlement, is a good base.
Cambodia Post VIP Van runs two daily minivans to Kampong Thom, with a 3-hour journey costing $6. Regular coaches are available from Central Market, costing between $6.50-$11.
A private taxi costs $75 and takes 4 hours. In Kampong Thom, visit Sambor Prei Kuk, an ancient temple, and explore other nearby sanctuaries. Spend the next morning exploring the local market before taking a bus or private taxi to Siem Reap.
Where to Stay in Kampong Thom
Sambour Village Hotel overlooks the river and offers boutique rooms, temple excursions, and a sunset cruise. For dining, try Love Cafe & Pizza for Western fare.
Day 5: Full Day in Siem Reap
Arrive in Siem Reap the previous night and get ready for a full day exploring Angkor’s temples. Decide how many days to spend at the temples to purchase the appropriate ticket.
Ticket Options:
- 2-day Angkor pass: $37
- 3-day Angkor pass: $62
- 7-day Angkor pass: $72
Consider a guided tour to maximize your experience. A full-day tour covers Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, with early pick-up for sunrise at Angkor Wat. The tour includes transportation and a stop at the ticket office but requires purchasing tickets separately.
After the tour, relax by the pool and explore the Angkor Night Market. Dine at Marum Training Restaurant for a unique experience.
Day 6: Full Day in Siem Reap
If you enjoyed temple hopping, use your second day to explore further Angkorian sites like Banteay Srei or Koh Ker and Beng Mealea. Alternatively, enjoy a waterfall hike or a boat trip on Tonle Sap Lake. For a relaxing day, visit Wat Damnak and dine at Cuisine Wat Damnak.
Day 7: Depart
Siem Reap
Return to Phnom Penh or head to the airport for your next destination. If you have extra time, visit other nearby attractions or relax at your accommodation.
Day 8-10: Optional Rural Towns or Coastal Area
If you have additional time, explore less-visited areas such as:
- Kep: A small coastal town with charming streets and excellent seafood. Enjoy fresh crab and beachside relaxation.
- Kampot: Known for pepper plantations and riverside views. Visit local markets and explore the nearby countryside.
- Koh Rong: An island offering pristine beaches and a tranquil atmosphere. Ideal for relaxation.
- Kep and Kampot are accessible from Phnom Penh by bus, and you can explore their attractions over a couple of days before returning to Phnom Penh.
By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the highlights of Cambodia while also having the opportunity to explore its less-visited corners.
