How Many Days Should You Spend in Cambodia? A Comprehensive Guide

Cambodia is a fascinating country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant culture. Whether you're an adventure seeker, history buff, or beach lover, Cambodia has something for everyone. But how many days should you spend in Cambodia to make the most of your trip? The answer depends on your interests, travel pace, and how deep you want to explore. Below, we break down various itineraries to help you plan your visit efficiently.

A Quick Overview

• 5 Days: Ideal for a short visit, focusing mainly on Angkor Wat and Siem Reap.
• 7 Days: Covers Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, giving a glimpse of both ancient and modern Cambodia.
• 10 Days: A balanced itinerary including Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and a beach getaway.
• 15+ Days: An immersive experience covering Cambodia’s highlights, from temples to islands and lesser-known gems.

5 Days in Cambodia: A Quick Yet Rewarding Trip

If you only have five days in Cambodia, your best bet is to focus on Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat temple complex. Siem Reap is the gateway to one of the world’s most iconic archaeological sites, making it a perfect destination for a short but fulfilling jaunt.

Day 1-2: Explore Angkor Wat and Major Temples

• Start your day early with sunrise at Angkor Wat, one of the most breathtaking sights in the world.
• Visit Bayon Temple, famous for its massive stone faces.
• Explore Ta Prohm, the temple enveloped by jungle vines (featured in Tomb Raider).
• End the day with sunset views at Phnom Bakheng or Pre Rup.

Day 3-4: Beyond Angkor Wat

• Observe Banteay Srei, a beautifully carved temple known as the “Jewel of Khmer Art.”
• Discover Tonlé Sap Lake and the floating villages to witness traditional Cambodian life.
• Spend the evening at Pub Street, trying Cambodian cuisine and enjoying the nightlife.
• Visit the enigmatic temples of Koh Ker and Beng Mealea to gain deeper insight into Khmer history.

Day 5: Departure

Suggested Itinerary: Mysterious Angkor Temples Tour

7 Days in Cambodia: Siem Reap & Phnom Penh

With seven days, you can sightsee in both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, getting a mix of ancient and contemporary Cambodian history.

Days 1-2: Phnom Penh & City Exploration

• Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, key historical landmarks.
• Stop by the National Museum of Cambodia, showcasing Khmer art and artifacts.
• Spend time in the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) to understand Cambodia’s tragic past.
• Take an excursion to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a somber yet important historical spot.

Day 3-4: Travel to Siem Reap & Explore Angkor Wat

• Fly or take a bus from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap (1-hour flight or 5-6 hours by bus).
• Journey round Angkor Wat and major temples, such as Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm.

Day 5-6: Beyond Angkor Wat

• Visit Banteay Srei, a beautifully carved temple known as the “Jewel of Khmer Art.”
• Take a jungle walk in Kbal Spean, commonly known as “The Valley of a 1000 Lingas.”
• Explore Tonlé Sap Lake, the flooded forest, and the floating villages to witness traditional Cambodian life.

Day 7: Departure

Suggested Itinerary: Incredible Cambodia Tour

10 Days in Cambodia: Temples, History, and the Beach

For a 10-day journey, you can delve into Cambodia’s temples, history, and beaches.

Days 1-4: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

Follow the 5-day itinerary above.

Day 5-6: Phnom Penh’s Key Highlights

Travel to Phnom Penh and visit its main attractions.

Day 7-9: Beach Escape to Koh Rong or Sihanoukville

• Take a transfer to Sihanoukville and ferry to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem.
• Relax on pristine beaches, go snorkeling or diving, and enjoy island life.

Day 10: Departure

Return to Phnom Penh for departure.

Suggested Itinerary: Secrets of Cambodia

15+ Days in Cambodia: An In-Depth Adventure

If you have more than 15 days, you can traverse around Cambodia at a relaxed pace and uncover off-the-beaten-path corners.

Days 1-2: Phnom Penh’s Key Highlights

Explore Phnom Penh’s historical locations and cultural legacy.

Days 3-5: Southern Cambodia - Kampot & Kep

• Visit Kampot, noted for its colonial charm, pepper farms, and river activities.
• Take a trip to Bokor National Park for captivating views and abandoned colonial buildings.
• Wander through Kep, renowned for fresh seafood and the beautiful Rabbit Island.

Days 6-7: Sihanoukville or Koh Rong Samloem

Enjoy a beach retreat with white sands and crystal-clear waters.

Days 8-10: Siem Reap & Angkor Wat

• Fly to Siem Reap
• Explore Angkor Wat and major temples, such as Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm.
• Visit Banteay Srei, a beautifully carved temple known as the “Jewel of Khmer Art.”
• Take a jungle walk in Kbal Spean, commonly known as “The Valley of a 1000 Lingas.”

Days 11-14: Eastern Cambodia - Kampong Thom & Kratie

• Explore Sambor Prei Kuk Temple complex, the old city of Chenla.
• Take a kayaking tour to see the Irrawaddy dolphins in Kratie.
• Join a cycling tour around Koh Trong Island.

Day 15: Departure

Optional: Battambang or Banlung

• If time allows, visit Battambang for its charming countryside, bamboo train ride, and caves.
• Banlung is great for nature lovers, with elephant sanctuaries and lush scenery.

Suggested Itinerary: Cambodia sightseeing & beach holidays, Complete Cambodia Tour, The Senses of Cambodia

No matter how many days you have, Cambodia is sure to leave a lasting impression with its astonishing sites, warm hospitality, and long history. Plan wisely and enjoy your journey! If the planning is a little overwhelming, please contact our Southeast Asia Travel experts for tailor-made tours to Cambodia and the neighboring countries.