10 day Itinerary for Cambodia
Heading to the land of ancient temples, white sandy beaches, and bustling street markets? Here is an option for a 10-day Cambodia itinerary.
- Day 1-4: Siem Reap
- Day 5-6: Koh Rong
- Day 7-10: Phnom Penh
If I were to do it again, I would stay an extra 2 to 3 days and visit one more city. Cambodia is a beautiful country with so much to offer. Consider adding Battambang or Kep to your itinerary for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. I went wanting to see Angkor Wat and Koh Rong and I did that, so I still left happy. Even if you’re short on time, make sure to visit at least two or three cities to experience the diversity Cambodia has to offer. Here is the break down of my trip: Siem Reap – 4 days, Koh Rong – 2 days, and Phnom Penh – 4 days.
Don’t forget to try the delicious Cambodian cuisine and immerse yourself in the culture and history of this amazing country. Here is a detailed itinerary for a 10-day trip to Cambodia:
Day 1 - Travel from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
I chose to arrive and depart out of Phnom Penh (PP) because it was cheaper than flying into Siem Reap (SR) and out of Phnom Penh.
The reason why flying out of Phnom Penh was cheaper could be due to the fact that there are more airlines operating in and out of PP compared to SR. You can also fly from PP to Siem Reap on a separate ticket, but I chose to hire a personal taxi and take the scenic drive of 5 hours to Siem Reap($70). Another option is to take a bus from PP to SR, which is significantly cheaper but takes longer, $15.
I arrived at SR around 5 PM on day 1. It’s worth noting that the road from PP to SR is not the smoothest, so if you get carsick easily, it might be better to fly or take a bus. That was plenty of time to change and head to Pub Street and the local markets.
Days 2 - 4 Siem Reap
During my trip, I decided to hire a private Tuk Tuk for all three days of my visit. After seeking recommendations, I ended up booking with Trusty Tuk Tuk, and I must say, I was pleased with their services from start to finish. On the first day of my tour, I was eager to take in all the sights Siem Reap had to offer. My itinerary included explorations of the local markets, the fascinating floating village, the solemn genocide museum, and a visit to a serene monastery.
The Tuk Tuk ride itself wasn’t just a means of transportation to get to these destinations; it was an experience in itself. As we zipped through the bustling streets of the city, I was able to take in more of the local culture and vibrancy up close. From street vendors selling exotic fruits to locals going about their daily routines, it truly was a feast for the senses.
All in all, hiring a private Tuk Tuk was the perfect decision for my trip to Siem Reap. I highly recommend anyone visiting the city to consider this option – it’s a great way to make the most out of your trip and see all the sights while enjoying the unique experience of a Tuk Tuk ride.
Days 3 – 4 Temples
After spending two glorious days exploring the stunning temples, I have to say that it was absolutely perfect for me. However, by the time 2 pm on the second day came around, I was completely tapped out. The heat, humidity, and constant climbing had left me truly exhausted. That being said, I can assure you that every bit of effort was well worth it. If you are planning a trip to the temples, I would highly recommend hiring a trusted tuk tuk driver as your private taxi. By doing this, you will be able to explore the temples at your own pace while also having the freedom to pick and choose which ones you want to see, creating a customized and unforgettable experience.
Sleeping Bus to Koh Rong
I embarked on my journey to Koh Rong via the comfortable sleeping bus on the fourth night of my adventure. The bus was scheduled to depart at the convenient time of 10 pm, which meant that I had an entire day left in Siem Reap to take in the sights and enjoy the local cuisine. I decided to retain my hotel reservation for the night, as I wanted to freshen up with a rejuvenating shower after my amazing encounter with the exquisite temples.
By opting for the sleeping bus, I was able to travel in comfort and style, while still having the opportunity to explore the local attractions before my departure. The night ride was smooth and peaceful, giving me ample time to rest and recharge my batteries for the upcoming adventure that awaited me on Koh Rong.
All in all, the experience of travelling by sleeping bus was a fantastic and memorable one. It was the perfect way to cap off my incredible journey in Siem Reap, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an efficient and comfortable mode of transportation to Koh Rong.
Day 4 – 5 Koh Rong
After taking the 9 am ferry, I finally arrived to the hotel at 10 am which gave me the whole day to lounge around, unwind, and bask in all the breathtaking beauty this island has to offer. Koh Rong is absolutely amazing, with an awe-inspiring landscape that boasts of crystal-clear blue waters and shimmering white sand. The picturesque scenery is something you simply cannot miss and should experience yourself.
Whether you’re looking to take it easy, relax, and soak up the warm rays of the sun, or to engage in exciting adventures and water sports, Koh Rong has got it all covered. Besides its amazing attractions, the island also offers a wide range of accommodations to suit your preferences- from charming hostels to luxurious hotels, there’s something for everyone. Truly, Koh Rong is a perfect holiday destination, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.
I stayed at The Secret Garden, and I highly recommend it. The Secret Garden is a boutique hotel located in the serene Pagoda Beach. It’s tucked away so it’s not crowded, and the rooms are nice. I particularly loved the outdoor swimming pool which was perfect for beating the heat. It’s not at Koh Touch where the dock and town are but its easily accessible via tuk-tuk.
On the morning of day 6, I headed back to Phnom Penh for the remainder of my trip. It’s about an hour on the ferry and a 3-hour van ride to Phnom Penh. There are several bus companies you can use; they usually have busses that depart on the hour from Sihanoukville.
Overall, my stay at The Secret Garden was a highlight of my trip and I would definitely stay here again if I’m ever back in the area.
Day 6 – 9 Phnom Penh
Day 6 - Central Market and Independence Monument
On day 6, I arrived in Phnom Penh early afternoon to explore this bustling city. One of my first stops was Central Market, where I found myself lost in the vibrant colors and sounds of the market’s many stalls. After wandering through the market, I decided to take a leisurely walk along the path near the Independence Monument. The walkway surrounding the Independence Monument is stunning during the day, but I highly recommend experiencing it in the evening when the path is illuminated by lights. If you continue along the pathway, it will lead you to Naga World, a casino offering a change of dining options. The cuisine is delicious and diverse, perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
All in all, my visit to Phnom Penh was nothing short of an adventure, and I was glad I took the time to explore all the city has to offer. I recommend anyone visiting to enjoy the sights and sounds of Central Market and the Independence Monument pathway. It will be an experience you won’t forget!
Day 7 - Bkk Market and Night Market/River Walk
On day 7 of your trip, why not check out one of the city’s vibrant markets? You’ll get to immerse yourself in the local culture and maybe even pick up some unique souvenirs. Afterward, indulge in a relaxing massage to unwind and recharge for the rest of the day. One of the local shops is also worth a visit to experience authentic Cambodian hospitality.
I highly recommend staying at a hotel with a nice pool. You can cool off and take a break from the bustle of the city before heading out for the evening. On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, don’t miss out on the night market located along the river. For an even more memorable experience, consider an hour-long evening boat cruise for just $5 which you can get at the river. The boat usually leaves around 730 so if you go around 7:15, you see someone selling tickets.
Day 8 - Russian Market and Night Market/River Walk
On the 8th day, I explored the bustling and vibrant Russian Market, which was overflowing with hidden local clothing gems waiting to be discovered. As the day drew to a close, I made my way to the Night Market, where I was mesmerized by the serene beauty of the river and the bustling energy of the lively atmosphere. My taste buds were in for a treat as I savored some of the delicious street food and coconut ice cream.
Day 9 - Wat Phnom and the Orussey Market
On day 9, I went to Aeon Mall and Naga World. I would pass on the mall going forward as I liked the markets and local clothing shops better. There are plenty of markets worth visiting. While I personally prefer to avoid smoke-filled casinos, I have to admit that the wide variety of dining options at Naga World are appealing. I recommend trying the delicious Italian restaurant. Overall, Aeon Mall and Naga World are not a must-do for me and would do again only if I had extra time in the city. I would see Wat Phnom and the Orussey Market instead.
Day 10- Morning in Phnom Penh and Travel Home
Day 10 Morning in Phnom Penh
Some of the markets open at 7 am so if you need something last minute or want to make one last round, you should have time.
Consider visiting the Central Market or the Russian Market for souvenirs. Most of the markets are within 10 – 15 minutes of any hotel in the city center. I had a 1050 am flight with a long layover in Taipei (10 hours).
If you have time to spare, I highly recommend exploring some of Taipei’s hidden gems or checking out one of their night markets.
I would opt for a later flight out of Phnom Penh If I were to do it again. There are some things I would have liked to see like Wat Phnom or the Orussey Market. I choose to skip the killing fields museum as I saw it in Siem Reap and did not want to read about these heartbreaking events again.
Regardless of what you choose to do, Phnom Penh is a fascinating and vibrant city that is definitely worth a visit
Looking to explore more of Asia? Check out my pages on Seoul and The DMZ and Busan and Jeonju
