Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 56 travelers

A Week in Cambodia: A Shoestring Budget Adventure

Sunday, October 1: Exploring Phnom Penh

In the morning, visit the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, home to the King of Cambodia, and admire the stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, explore the sobering Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn about the country's dark history. As the evening falls, take a stroll along the Mekong River and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the night markets.

  • Royal Palace: Estimated Cost - $10, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Mekong River Night Markets: Estimated Cost - $10 (for snacks and souvenirs), Time Spent - 2 hours
Monday, October 2: Discovering Siem Reap

Start your day by visiting the magnificent Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest religious monument in the world. Spend the afternoon wandering through the ancient ruins of Angkor Thom, including the Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm, famously known as the "Tomb Raider" temple. In the evening, explore the vibrant Pub Street and sample local street food.

  • Angkor Wat: Estimated Cost - $37 (1-day pass), Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Angkor Thom & Ta Prohm: Estimated Cost - $37 (1-day pass), Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Pub Street: Estimated Cost - $10 (for dinner and drinks), Time Spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Sihanoukville Beach Escape

Take a morning bus journey to Sihanoukville and spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches like Otres Beach or Serendipity Beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in delicious seafood by the ocean. In the evening, experience the lively nightlife at the beachside bars and clubs.

  • Sihanoukville Beaches: Estimated Cost - $10 (for food and drinks), Time Spent - Full day
  • Beachside Bars and Clubs: Estimated Cost - $10 (for drinks), Time Spent - Evening
Wednesday, October 4: Kampot's Charm

Travel to the picturesque town of Kampot and explore its colonial architecture, riverside promenade, and local markets. Take a boat trip along the Kampot River and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, savor the famous Kampot pepper-infused cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

  • Kampot Town: Estimated Cost - $5 (for food and transportation), Time Spent - Half day
  • Kampot River Boat Trip: Estimated Cost - $10, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Taste Kampot Pepper Cuisine: Estimated Cost - $10, Time Spent - Evening
Thursday, October 5: Battambang's Cultural Delights

Explore the charming city of Battambang, known for its well-preserved French colonial architecture. Visit the Bamboo Train, a unique form of transportation, and experience the local way of life. Discover the ancient temples of Wat Banan and Wat Ek Phnom. In the evening, attend a traditional Khmer dance performance.

  • Bamboo Train: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Wat Banan & Wat Ek Phnom: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Khmer Dance Performance: Estimated Cost - $10, Time Spent - Evening
Friday, October 6: Exploring Ratanakiri's Natural Wonders

Take a domestic flight to Ratanakiri and embark on an adventure in the northeastern region of Cambodia. Visit the mesmerizing Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake and enjoy swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Explore the traditional villages of the indigenous hill tribes and learn about their unique cultures. Catch a mesmerizing sunset at the Banlung Viewpoint.

  • Domestic Flight to Ratanakiri: Estimated Cost - $70 (round trip), Time Spent - Half day
  • Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake: Estimated Cost - $5, Time Spent - Half day
  • Traditional Village Visits: Estimated Cost - $10, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Banlung Viewpoint: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Saturday, October 7: Relaxing in Koh Rong

Take a ferry to Koh Rong Island and spend the day unwinding on its pristine beaches. Swim in the turquoise waters, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, and soak up the sun. Enjoy a beachside BBQ dinner and witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent plankton phenomenon after dark.

  • Ferry to Koh Rong Island: Estimated Cost - $20 (round trip), Time Spent - Full day
  • Beach Activities: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Full day
  • Bioluminescent Plankton: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those on a shoestring budget, consider visiting the lesser-known destination of Kratie, where you can spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River. Explore the remote Banteay Chhmar temple complex for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Don't forget to sample the delicious street food in the local markets throughout Cambodia, such as Phsar Thmei in Phnom Penh or Phsar Leu in Siem Reap.

Check out Kayak for the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Cambodia!

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version