Exploring Cambodia: A 6-Day Itinerary for an Unforgettable Trip
Cambodia is magical. Sure, it’s changing, but it’s still one of the best places to travel on a budget without feeling like you’re scraping by.
I spent a whole month here, soaking in every temple, street food stall, and questionable tuk-tuk ride. I know you probably don’t have a month, so I’ve crammed all the best bits into a 6-day itinerary that’s the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and a little bit of “treat yourself” energy.
TL;DR: Brno in a Nutshell
Where to Stay: Budget hostels, boutique hotels, and a splurge-worthy spot.
Getting Around: Tuktuks, walking, bus
Top Activities: Angkor Wat, Killing Fields, floating villages
Not a Planner? Skip the stress—check out our curated GetYourGuide tours below!
Where to Stay & How to Get Around
Where to rest:
Where should you stay? That depends on your vibe.
Budget-friendly & social: Onederz Hostel (Siem Reap & Phnom Penh) – cheap, clean, and full of cool travelers
Comfy but stylish: Mulberry Boutique Hotel (Siem Reap) & Pavilion Hotel (Phnom Penh) – mid-range gems that feel way fancier than their price tags
Go big or go home: Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor (Siem Reap) & Rosewood Phnom Penh – pure luxury
Something different: Sala Lodges (Siem Reap) – charming traditional houses with modern comfort
Getting Around:
Getting around? Tuk-tuks will be your best friend. Buses are cheap but sloooow. Domestic flights are quick, but do you really want to spend an hour in another airport? Private drivers make life easy (especially for temple hopping).
Day 1: welcome to siem reap
Afternoon & EVENING : Settle in + Dinner
You made it! First things first—drop your bags at your hotel and take a deep breath. You’re in Cambodia, and it’s about to be amazing. If you’ve been on a long flight, we won’t judge if you take a quick nap (or at least a shower).
When you’re ready to explore, head to Khmer Grill for dinner. It’s cheap, it’s delicious, and the staff will probably make you feel like family within five minutes. After stuffing yourself with Lok Lak (beef in a tangy sauce) or Fish Amok (a creamy coconut curry), wander over to the Angkor Night Market. It’s got everything—souvenirs, street food, questionable fashion choices. Buy some elephant pants; you’ll thank me later. If you’re feeling fancy, grab a cocktail at Miss Wong, a hidden little bar with serious 1920s Shanghai vibes.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Night markets can get crowded, but they’re mostly flat. Tuk-tuks are everywhere, so getting around is easy.
📸 Picture Spot Suggestion: Head to the riverfront and snap a pic with the twinkling market lights reflecting on the water.
Day 2: Temples, Temples, & more temples
Morning: Angkor wat
Set your alarm early—painfully early—because you’re catching sunrise at Angkor Wat. Trust me, it’s worth it. Grab a tuk-tuk (or book a tour) and get there by 5 AM. Watching the sun rise behind the ancient towers? Pure magic. Also, bring snacks because temple-hopping is a marathon, not a sprint.
After Angkor Wat, hit Bayon Temple (the one with the giant stone faces), Ta Prohm (AKA the ‘Tomb Raider’ temple—prepare to feel like Indiana Jones), and Banteay Kdei, which is way less crowded but just as stunning. If you need a break, grab a fresh coconut from a vendor and sip it like the temple-exploring pro you are.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Angkor Wat has some steep stairs, but some temples have ramps. Floating village boats can be tricky if mobility is an issue.
📸 Picture Spot Suggestion: Stand at the back of Angkor Wat’s main reflecting pool for that iconic sunrise shot.
Afternoon: floating villages
By the afternoon, you’ll either want a nap or a chill boat ride to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake. If you’re feeling ambitious, sign up for a Khmer cooking class—I learned to make Fish Amok here, and let’s just say I impressed myself. If you’re looking for some insight into local life, I highly recommend trying to see the floating villages.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Floating village boats can be tricky if mobility is an issue.
Evening: Dinner and a circus
Dinner at Spoons Café is a must. Not only is the food incredible, but it also supports local youth training programs. And if you have energy left (how?!), check out Phare, The Cambodian Circus—think Cirque du Soleil meets Cambodian storytelling. It’s truly a unique experience!
Day 3: Beyond the temples
Morning: Angkor Thom
By now, you’ve probably had your fill of ancient ruins, so today’s all about exploring Cambodia’s countryside. Start with Angkor Thom, the walled city that’s home to more incredible ruins like the South Gate and the Terrace of Elephants (yes, actual carved stone elephants). Then, hop on a tuk-tuk and head out into the countryside.
This is where Cambodia really shines. Picture this: lush green rice fields, sleepy villages, and locals waving at you from their front porches. If you can, book a guided tour with a local—they’ll take you to family-run workshops where you can see silk weaving, rice noodle making, and even try your hand at pottery. I once attempted to make a clay bowl here… it looked more like a sad pancake, but hey, it was fun.
🚨 Accessibility Note: Some countryside roads are bumpy, but tuk-tuks can navigate them easily. Cycling might be tiring in the heat.
📸 Picture Spot Suggestion: Snap a pic of the endless green rice fields just before sunset. The golden light is unreal.
Afternoon: Explore at your own pace
By midday, you’ll probably want a break. Grab lunch at Sister Srey Café, a charming little spot run by two Australian sisters that serves great coffee and even better avocado toast (yes, even in Cambodia). It’s also a social enterprise, so your money goes to a good cause.
The afternoon is yours. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a cycling tour through the countryside. If you’d rather just exist, hit up a spa for an affordable massage. I once had a $10 massage in Siem Reap that changed my life.
Evening: relish in local fare
Dinner at Chanrey Tree is the perfect way to end the day. It’s a little pricier than your average Khmer joint, but the food? Chef’s kiss. Get the beef Lok Lak. Trust me.
Day 4: JOurney to phnom Pehn
Morning & Afternoon: Travel time
Time to say goodbye to Siem Reap! Whether you take a quick flight or a scenic six-hour bus ride, you’ll roll into Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital. I personally recommend the bus ride to see more of the country! It’s also cheaper than the flight ;)
Afternoon & Evening: ease into the new city
Once you’re settled, take a lazy stroll along the Riverside Promenade, where locals hang out, street vendors sell snacks, and you can people-watch to your heart’s content. Grab dinner at Romdeng, a beautiful restaurant housed in a colonial building that serves traditional Khmer dishes—yes, you can even try deep-fried tarantula if you’re feeling brave!
🚨 Accessibility Note: The bus ride can be bumpy. Most areas in Phnom Penh are flat, but sidewalks can be uneven. 📸 Picture Spot Suggestion: Snap a sunset shot by the river for some golden-hour magic.
Evening: relish in local fare
Dinner at Chanrey Tree is the perfect way to end the day. It’s a little pricier than your average Khmer joint, but the food? Chef’s kiss. Get the beef Lok Lak. Trust me.
Day 5: Phnom Pehn’s history & culture
Morning: The royal palace and Silver Pagoda
Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts—gleaming skyscrapers right next to bustling markets and somber historical sites. Start your morning at the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, a stunning complex of golden rooftops and intricate Khmer architecture.
📸 Picture Spot Suggestion: The golden spires of the Royal Palace make for a stunning shot.
Afternoon: The killing fields
Next, prepare for an emotional but necessary visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. It’s a difficult experience, but an important one. Take your time, and if you need a moment after, find a quiet café to process. It’s a truly humbling and powerful opportunity.
🚨 Accessibility Note: The Killing Fields have uneven paths, but Tuk-tuks can drop you close.
Evening: unwind with a cocktail
End your day with a cocktail at Eclipse Sky Bar, one of the highest rooftop bars in the city. The views? Unreal.
Day 6: last day vibes & departure
The final day!
Squeeze in one last meal (hello, Kuy Teav noodles), take a last stroll by the river, and soak in your final moments in Cambodia. You did it!
Not a Planner? Try These GetYourGuide Experiences!
For those who prefer guided adventures, here are fantastic, stress-free experiences:
1. Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour from Siem Reap
Experience the magic of Angkor Wat at dawn with a guided sunrise tour. This tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and visits to iconic temples like Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, and Bayon. A knowledgeable guide will enrich your experience with historical insights.
2. Phnom Penh Sunset Cruise with Live Music
Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mekong River in Phnom Penh. The cruise features live traditional Khmer music and offers views of floating villages, the Royal Palace, and the city's skyline. Choose between a 5 PM sunset cruise or a 7 PM city lights cruise, both offering a leisurely experience with onboard dining options.
3. Battambang City Tour with Bamboo Train Ride
Explore Battambang on a guided tuk-tuk tour that includes a ride on the famous bamboo train. You'll visit local caves, enjoy stunning natural views, and savor local cuisine. This tour provides insights into the history, culture, and daily life of the region.
4. Eastern Cambodia Multi-Day Trips
For those interested in extended adventures, consider multi-day trips in Eastern Cambodia. Options include a 3-day tour covering Angkor Wat and a floating village, a 2-day hiking adventure in the Aural Mountains, and a comprehensive 6-day tour from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat.
These tours are designed to provide enriching experiences while taking care of the logistics, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in Cambodia's culture and beauty.
