Start your trip in Cambodia's vibrant capital, Phnom Penh. In the morning, visit the serene grounds of the Royal Palace and admire the stunning architecture. Afterward, take a tuk-tuk ride to the historic Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, also known as the Killing Fields, to gain insight into Cambodia's tragic history. In the evening, relax by the riverside at Sisowath Quay, where you can enjoy local street food and beautiful views of the Tonle Sap River.
Royal Palace: $5 entrance fee, 2-3 hours
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center: $6 entrance fee, 1-2 hours
Sisowath Quay: Free, evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Shop. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, from classic eggs and bacon to healthy smoothie bowls. You can expect to spend around $10 per person for a satisfying breakfast.
For lunch, head to Khmer Surin Restaurant. This popular eatery serves authentic Khmer cuisine, including flavorful curries and stir-fried dishes. Enjoy a filling lunch here for an average cost of $15 per person.
In the evening, dine at Romdeng for a unique culinary experience. This restaurant specializes in traditional Cambodian cuisine with a modern twist. Savor dishes like fish amok and beef lok lak while enjoying the charming ambiance. Dinner at Romdeng typically costs around $20 per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Siem Reap
Head to Siem Reap, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. Start your day early to witness the breathtaking sunrise at Angkor Wat itself. Spend the morning exploring the ancient temple complex of Angkor, including Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm, famously known as the Tomb Raider temple. In the afternoon, relax by Tonle Sap Lake and take a boat tour to experience the floating villages. End the day with a traditional Apsara dance performance and a delicious Khmer dinner.
Angkor Wat: $37 one-day pass, morning
Bayon Temple: Included in Angkor Wat ticket, morning
Ta Prohm: Included in Angkor Wat ticket, morning
Tonle Sap Lake: $10 boat tour, afternoon
Apsara dance performance: $15-25, evening
Restaurants
The Singing Tree Cafe: A cozy breakfast spot offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and a wide selection of healthy options. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
The Peaceful Garden: Enjoy a relaxing lunch in this serene garden restaurant, serving delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes made with organic ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Nom Nom Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorful dinner at this popular eatery known for its authentic Khmer cuisine, including classic dishes like fish amok and beef lok lak. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Kampot
Travel to the charming riverside town of Kampot known for its laid-back atmosphere. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside promenade and enjoy the scenic views. Visit Bokor Hill Station, an abandoned French hill station, and enjoy the cool mountain air while exploring its eerie buildings. In the afternoon, relax with a boat tour along the Kampot River, passing through beautiful mangrove forests. End your day with a delightful seafood dinner at one of the riverfront restaurants.
Kampot Riverside: Free, morning
Bokor Hill Station: $2 entrance fee, afternoon
Kampot River boat tour: $10 per person, afternoon
Seafood dinner: $10-20, evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Magic Sponge, a cozy cafe offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For lunch, head to Rusty Keyhole, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering ribs and juicy burgers. Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and live music while savoring their tasty dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at The Greenhouse, an exquisite riverside restaurant serving a fusion of Khmer and international cuisine. They offer a range of seafood dishes and beautifully crafted cocktails. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Kep
Visit the tranquil coastal town of Kep, known for its stunning beaches and delicious seafood. Start your day by relaxing at the beautiful Kep Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the Kep National Park, known for its lush greenery and hiking trails. Take a boat trip to Rabbit Island and spend the evening savoring fresh seafood at one of the many beachfront restaurants.
Kep Beach: Free, morning
Kep National Park: Free, afternoon
Rabbit Island boat trip: $10-20, afternoon
Seafood dinner: $10-30, evening
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Happy Bowls, a cozy cafe in Kep. Enjoy their healthy bowls packed with fresh fruits and granola. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to The Rusty Keyhole, a popular restaurant in Kep. Indulge in their mouthwatering BBQ ribs and flavorful Khmer curry. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Kimly Seafood, a fantastic seafood restaurant in Kep. Feast on their signature prawn dishes and fresh fish cooked to perfection. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Friday, October 20: Sihanoukville
Head to the popular seaside resort town of Sihanoukville for some relaxation by the beach. Spend the morning lounging at the beautiful Sokha Beach or Otres Beach, enjoying the crystal-clear waters and pristine sand. In the afternoon, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment at one of the beachfront resorts. End your trip with a delicious seafood dinner and a vibrant night out at one of the lively beach bars.
Sokha Beach or Otres Beach: Free, morning
Spa treatment: $30-50, afternoon
Seafood dinner: $20-40, evening
Beach bars: Varies, evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Beach Road Kitchen for a delicious spread of international and local dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, check out Sandan Restaurant, known for its unique menu featuring traditional Khmer dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, dine at Holy Cow, a cozy steakhouse offering high-quality steaks and a variety of BBQ dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
In Kep, be sure to explore the Kep Crab Market where you can taste some of the freshest crab dishes and seafood delights. For a unique experience, venture to Koh Rong Samloem, a tranquil island off the coast of Sihanoukville, where you can relax in secluded beaches and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings. Another local favorite is Kampot's pepper plantations, where you can learn about the region's famous Kampot pepper and even take some home as a delicious souvenir.
For finding hotel and flight options, you can check Kayak.