Things to Do in Cambodia: A Complete Travel Guide

Cambodia is a fascinating destination for travelers who enjoy ancient temples, vibrant cities, tropical islands, local food, and cultural experiences. From the famous temples of Siem Reap to the lively streets of Phnom Penh and the beaches of the south, there are plenty of things to do in Cambodia for different types of travelers.

Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap

No trip to Cambodia feels complete without visiting Angkor Wat. Located near Siem Reap, this extraordinary temple is part of the much larger Angkor Archaeological Park, which covers around 400 square kilometers and includes numerous temples and archaeological features. 

You can learn about the temple complex through the official Angkor Wat information before planning your visit. The site is particularly impressive around sunrise, when the temple towers are reflected in the water.

Discover Ta Prohm and Bayon Temple

Angkor Wat is only one part of the larger Angkor experience. Ta Prohm is famous for its atmospheric ruins and enormous tree roots growing around the ancient structures, while Bayon is known for its distinctive stone faces.

UNESCO describes Angkor as one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites, with monuments including Angkor Wat, Bayon, Preah Khan, and Ta Prohm. 

If you have enough time, exploring several temples rather than visiting Angkor Wat alone gives you a much better understanding of the scale and history of the ancient Khmer capital.

Walk Around Siem Reap

Siem Reap is more than just a base for visiting the temples. Spend some time exploring its streets, cafés, restaurants, markets, and local shops.

The city becomes especially lively in the evening, when travelers head out for dinner and browse the night markets. Cambodia’s tourism authorities also highlight the night markets of Siem Reap among the country’s popular experiences. 

You can also take a slower approach by enjoying a Cambodian meal, visiting a local market, or simply walking around the central areas.

Visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh offers a completely different atmosphere from Siem Reap. One of the city’s major landmarks is the Royal Palace, located along the riverfront.

The palace complex includes the Throne Hall and Silver Pagoda, with classic Khmer architectural details throughout the grounds. The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh remains an important royal site and gives visitors a glimpse into Cambodia’s architectural and cultural heritage. 

Remember to dress respectfully when visiting religious and royal sites, particularly by covering your shoulders and knees.

Explore Phnom Penh’s Local Markets

Markets are an easy way to experience everyday life in Cambodia. Phnom Penh has several markets where you can browse clothing, souvenirs, fresh food, handicrafts, and other local products.

For travelers who enjoy combining sightseeing with shopping, markets are also a good place to try snacks and observe the city’s busy rhythm.

Learn About Cambodia’s History

Cambodia’s history is an important part of understanding the country. Phnom Penh has several museums and historical sites where travelers can learn more about Cambodia’s difficult past as well as its cultural development.

Approach these places with respect and allow enough time to process what you see. A visit focused on history can add much more depth to a trip than simply moving between tourist attractions.

Discover Sambor Prei Kuk

Travelers interested in Cambodia’s ancient history can also visit Sambor Prei Kuk, an archaeological site in central Cambodia that predates the Angkor period. Its collection of temple structures and distinctive brick architecture offers a different perspective on the country’s early Khmer heritage.

Sambor Prei Kuk is recognized by UNESCO as an important archaeological and cultural site, making it a worthwhile addition for travelers who want to explore beyond the better-known temples of Siem Reap. 

Explore Preah Vihear

For travelers who have more time, Preah Vihear offers another impressive temple experience. Built on a mountain ridge, the temple is known for its setting as well as its Khmer architecture.

The Temple of Preah Vihear is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a very different experience from the temples around Angkor. 

Relax in Kampot

Kampot is a great choice when you want a slower pace. The riverside town is known for its relaxed atmosphere, colonial-era buildings, nearby countryside, and access to outdoor experiences.

You can spend the day walking around town, enjoying the riverside views, visiting cafés, or exploring the surrounding countryside. Cambodia’s tourism resources also highlight Kampot as one of the country’s destinations worth exploring. 

Visit Kep for a Coastal Escape

Kep offers a quieter coastal experience and is particularly known for seafood. It is easy to combine Kep with Kampot if you want to add a few relaxing days to a Cambodia itinerary.

A short coastal break can be a welcome change after several days of temple sightseeing, especially if your trip includes plenty of walking.

Discover Cambodia’s Islands

Cambodia also has beautiful islands if you want to include beaches and tropical scenery in your trip. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are popular choices for travelers looking for clear water, sandy beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The country’s tourism ministry highlights its coastal areas and islands as part of Cambodia’s natural attractions. 

You can spend your island days swimming, relaxing on the beach, enjoying seafood, or simply taking a break from busy sightseeing.

Try Traditional Cambodian Food

Food is another reason to explore Cambodia beyond its famous temples. Try dishes such as amok, lok lak, Khmer curry, fresh spring rolls, and local noodle dishes during your trip.

Street food and local restaurants can offer very different experiences from international hotel dining, so leave room in your itinerary for trying something new.

If you are planning a longer Southeast Asian trip, keeping your travel essentials organized can also make moving between destinations easier. Best travel wallets can be useful for keeping passports, cards, and cash together while traveling.

Take a Boat Trip on Tonlé Sap Lake

Tonlé Sap is one of Cambodia’s most important natural features and is closely connected with communities living around the lake.

A boat trip can give you a different perspective on Cambodian life, particularly when visiting floating or lakeside communities. It is an experience that combines scenery, culture, and a look at how local communities interact with the water.

Explore Cambodia Beyond the Main Tourist Route

Travelers with extra time can explore destinations such as Battambang, Kratie, Mondulkiri, or other provinces. Cambodia’s tourism ministry lists 25 destinations and provinces with different attractions, food, accommodation, and local experiences. 

Going beyond Siem Reap and Phnom Penh can make your trip feel less rushed and give you a chance to see a quieter side of the country.

If you’re building a larger Southeast Asian itinerary, fun vacation spots for kids can also be useful when comparing family-friendly destinations for the next part of your trip.

Respect Cambodia’s Temples and Local Culture

Many Cambodian temples are active religious and cultural sites, so respectful behavior is important. Wear appropriate clothing, avoid climbing or touching temple structures, and be considerate of worshippers and monks.

The APSARA National Authority specifically asks visitors to respect worshippers and monks, dress appropriately, avoid touching or climbing monuments, and help keep Angkor clean. 

Best Time to Visit Cambodia

Cambodia’s dry season is generally popular with travelers because sightseeing conditions are often more comfortable. However, the wetter months can also bring greener landscapes and fewer visitors at some attractions.

If Angkor Wat is the main reason for your trip, give yourself enough time in Siem Reap rather than trying to see the temples in a single rushed day.

How Many Days Do You Need in Cambodia?

A week can give you a good introduction to Cambodia. You could spend several days around Siem Reap, continue to Phnom Penh, and then finish with a few relaxing days in Kampot, Kep, or one of the islands.

With 10 days or more, you can travel at a slower pace and include additional destinations such as Battambang or Tonlé Sap.

Conclusion

There are plenty of things to do in Cambodia, from exploring the extraordinary temples of Angkor and discovering Phnom Penh’s historic landmarks to relaxing in Kampot and enjoying the country’s tropical islands.

The best Cambodia trips combine famous attractions with slower local experiences. Give yourself time to enjoy the food, markets, landscapes, and culture, and the country can offer much more than a quick visit to Angkor Wat.

FAQs

What is Cambodia best known for?

Cambodia is best known for Angkor Wat, Khmer history and architecture, beautiful temples, traditional food, cultural experiences, and tropical islands.

How many days are enough for Cambodia?

Around 7 to 10 days is a good amount of time for a first Cambodia trip, allowing you to combine Siem Reap with Phnom Penh and a coastal destination.

Is Cambodia worth visiting?

Yes. Cambodia offers a mix of ancient history, impressive temples, local culture, beaches, nature, and food, making it a rewarding destination for many types of travelers.