A Family-Friendly Itinerary for Exploring Cambodia
Sunday, October 15: Siem Reap
Start your family adventure in Siem Reap, the gateway to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park. Spend the morning exploring the impressive temples of Angkor Wat and marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural wonders. In the afternoon, head to the Angkor National Museum for an interactive and educational experience, perfect for kids and adults alike. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant Pub Street and sample delicious Cambodian street food.
Angkor Wat: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $37 for a 1-day pass. Time spent: Half-day.
Angkor National Museum: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $12 per adult, $3 per child. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Pub Street: Estimated cost for food and drinks: $10-20 per person. Time spent: Evening.
Restaurants
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Village Cafe, offering a variety of Western and local breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
Treat your taste buds to authentic Khmer cuisine at Sugar Palm Restaurant for a delicious lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner at Chamkar Vegetarian Restaurant, serving delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Monday, October 16: Phnom Penh
Travel to Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh, and delve into its rich history and culture. Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace, home to the King of Cambodia. Explore the mesmerizing Silver Pagoda and learn about the country's monarchy. In the afternoon, head to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to gain insights into the tragic Khmer Rouge era. Wrap up the day with a relaxing sunset cruise along the Mekong River.
Royal Palace: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $10 per adult, free for children below 6. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $5 per adult, free for children. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Mekong River Sunset Cruise: Estimated cost: $10-20 per person. Time spent: Evening.
Restaurants
Morning Glory serves delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Cambodian breakfast dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
Friends The Restaurant offers a wide variety of lunch options including Khmer, Western, and vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
Mok Mony Restaurant is the perfect place for a satisfying dinner with its mouthwatering selection of Cambodian fusion cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Battambang
Embark on a scenic journey to Battambang, a charming city known for its French colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene. Start the day with a ride on the famous Bamboo Train, a unique and thrilling experience for the whole family. Explore the quaint streets of Battambang in the afternoon, visiting local markets and art galleries. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance, showcasing Cambodia's cultural heritage.
Bamboo Train: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $5-10 per person. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Local Markets and Art Galleries: Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: Afternoon.
Apsara Dance Performance: Estimated cost: $10-15 per person. Time spent: Evening.
Restaurants
Le Jardin Coffee & Bakery is a charming breakfast spot in Battambang, offering a range of freshly baked goods and delicious coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
The Lonely Tree Cafe is a great lunch option, serving a variety of local and international dishes with a laid-back atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Pomme d'Amour Restaurant is a popular dinner spot in Battambang, known for its French-inspired cuisine and cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Sihanoukville
Head to the coastal town of Sihanoukville for a relaxing beach getaway. Spend the morning swimming and sunbathing at the pristine Sokha Beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch by the sea before taking a boat trip to the nearby islands for snorkeling and island hopping. As the sun sets, stroll along the lively Serendipity Beach and savor a delicious dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Sokha Beach: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: Free entry. Time spent: Morning.
Island Boat Trip: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $25-30 per person. Time spent: Afternoon.
Serendipity Beach: Estimated cost for food and drinks: $10-20 per person. Time spent: Evening.
Restaurants
A cozy breakfast spot near Sokha Beach is The Secret Garden Cafe, offering a variety of breakfast options such as eggs benedict and fresh fruit smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about $7 per person.
For a delightful seafood lunch, head to The Cliff Restaurant, nestled atop a cliff with panoramic views of the ocean. Enjoy their signature grilled fish and seafood platter. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Holy Cow, a beachfront restaurant known for its delicious steaks and mouthwatering burgers. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the views of the ocean while savoring their delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Kep
Travel to the charming coastal town of Kep, known for its delicious seafood and tranquil surroundings. Begin your day with a visit to Kep National Park, where you can hike through lush forests and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop pagoda. Treat yourselves to a sumptuous seafood lunch at the famous Crab Market. In the afternoon, relax on Kep Beach and watch the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand.
Kep National Park: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: Free entry. Time spent: Morning.
Crab Market: Estimated cost for food: Varies. Time spent: Lunchtime.
Kep Beach: Estimated cost: Free entry. Time spent: Afternoon.
Restaurants
Start your day at The Rusty Keyhole, a cozy breakfast spot with a laid-back atmosphere. Indulge in their delicious homemade croissants and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For a satisfying seafood lunch, head to Kimly Seafood Restaurant. Enjoy their famous grilled prawns and fresh fish dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at The Sailing Club. This waterfront restaurant offers a wide selection of international and Khmer cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Friday, October 20: Kampong Thom
Explore the rural province of Kampong Thom, dotted with ancient temples and charming villages. Start your day by visiting the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning pre-Angkorian temples. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque countryside. In the afternoon, take a boat trip along the Stung Sen River and witness the local way of life along the riverbanks.
Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: $3 per person. Time spent: Half-day.
Picnic Lunch: Estimated cost: $10-15 per person. Time spent: Lunchtime.
Stung Sen River Boat Trip: Estimated cost: $20-30 per person. Time spent: Afternoon.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Angkor Café, a cozy local spot known for its delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, try the popular Bamboo Restaurant, located near the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site. Enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes made with fresh ingredients, and the average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For dinner, dine at Villa Grange, a charming restaurant with a beautiful outdoor garden. Indulge in their delectable menu featuring a mix of Khmer and Western cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Koh Rong
Conclude your Cambodian adventure with a visit to the stunning island of Koh Rong. Spend the day relaxing on the white sandy beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs. Indulge in a seafood barbecue on the beach for lunch and soak up the island's idyllic atmosphere. As the sun sets, experience the magical bioluminescent plankton phenomenon, creating a mesmerizing natural light show in the water.
Koh Rong Beaches: Check prices on hotels and flights. Estimated cost: Free entry. Time spent: Full day.
Seafood Barbecue: Estimated cost: $15-20 per person. Time spent: Lunchtime.
Bioluminescent Plankton: Estimated cost: $10-15 per person. Time spent: Evening.
Restaurants
Riverbank Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Riverbank Restaurant, located along the river in Koh Rong Village. They offer a variety of breakfast options including traditional Cambodian dishes and Western favorites. The average cost for a meal here is about $8 per person.
Coconut Grove Beachfront Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch with stunning ocean views, head to Coconut Grove Beachfront Restaurant. They specialize in fresh seafood and serve a range of dishes such as grilled fish, prawns, and crab. The average cost for a meal here is about $12 per person.
The Royal Bayview Restaurant: Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Royal Bayview Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and gourmet cuisine. They offer a diverse menu featuring Cambodian and international dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal here is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions and local favorites, consider visiting the quaint town of Kampot, known for its riverside charm and pepper plantations. Explore the Bokor National Park, where you can hike through lush rainforests and visit the abandoned French colonial hill station. Don't miss the opportunity to try Kampot's famous pepper-infused cuisine and take a sunset river cruise along the Preaek Tuek Chhu River.