Ultimate 7-Day Cambodia itinerary for first timers

Cambodia tells a story spanning over a millennium. Once the heart of the powerful Khmer Empire that built Angkor, it's a small country by Asian standards, but you'll need at least a month (or more) to fully explore everything it offers. The road network has improved a lot recently, making it easier to visit places that were once harder to reach. We know not everyone has a month to spare, so here's what I think makes for a great week-long Cambodia itinerary.

Why visit Cambodia?

Cambodia's a destination you really shouldn't overlook and that offers a lot more than just Angkor Wat (though it's absolutely worth the hype). In Siem Reap, you’ll find great street food like fish amok curry and noodles, along with vibrant night markets showcasing local art. Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are impressive, but it's the small experiences, like seeing tai chi by the Mekong at sunrise, that really stand out. What really sets Cambodia apart, though, is its people. Despite a challenging past, they’re known for their incredible warmth, hospitality, and rich culture.

One-week in Cambodia itinerary

For this itinerary, I tried to include as many of the must-see sights as possible, as well as some historical stops for cultural context. The trip ends with some of the most beautiful beaches in Cambodia. If you feel like a week might not be enough, be sure to check out our 10 day Cambodia itinerary and 14 day Cambodia itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Phnom Penh

When you arrive in Phnom Penh, head to Sisowath Quay, the city’s riverside promenade. It’s a 3-kilometer stretch along the Mekong River that really picks up in the evening with locals taking walks, street vendors setting up shop, and plenty of restaurants to try. It’s a nice, easy way to settle into the city.

If you get in earlier and have some energy, stop by the National Museum. It’s a good introduction to Khmer art and history and will give you some context for your trip to Angkor later on.

For food, I’d recommend checking out the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung). It’s a great spot to try local dishes. Be sure to sample nom banh chok (Khmer noodles), a traditional dish made with rice noodles, a fragrant fish-based curry, and fresh herbs. 

Where to stay in Phnom Penh

Riverside, near Sisowath Quay, is a popular area to stay. It’s close to restaurants and attractions, but it can get noisy at night. The Olympic Area is another option if you’re looking for a quieter, more local experience. It’s less touristy and has great street food and markets.

Day 2: Visit Tuol Sleng and Killing Fields

This day is an intense but essential day of understanding Cambodia’s history.

Start with a visit to Tuol Sleng (S-21). This was a high school later converted into a prison where over 20,000 Cambodians were detained and tortured during the Khmer Rouge regime. The site is now preserved as a museum, with photographs and artifacts documenting the atrocities that occurred there.

The Killing Fields at Choeung Ek, located outside Phnom Penh, is where many S-21 prisoners were executed and buried in mass graves. Today it stands as a memorial site, centered around a stupa containing victims' remains. Together, these sites tell the story of Cambodia's darkest period, when approximately one-quarter of the population died under the Khmer Rouge's brutal rule between 1975 and 1979.

Hiring a guide is highly recommended for these sites. They offer crucial context and help you better understand the events, all while being respectful of the space’s significance.

Afterwards

These visits can be emotionally overwhelming, so allow time for reflection afterward. Many people find it helpful to keep the evening light with a relaxing meal or some downtime in Phnom Penh.

Day 3: Travel to Siem Reap

Getting from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap is straightforward, with a few good options depending on your schedule and preferences.

The bus is the most popular choice, taking about six hours on National Highway 6. Most buses are air-conditioned and come with onboard toilets, Wi-Fi, and scheduled rest stops. If you’re going this route, leaving in the morning is a smart move so you can get to Siem Reap before nightfall.

Being short on time, flying is the fastest way to go. The flight takes around 45 minutes, and while it costs more than ground transportation, you’ll have more time to explore once you arrive. 

For a slower, more scenic journey, you can take a boat across Tonle Sap Lake. This option only works during the high-water season (August to February) and takes 7–8 hours. You’ll pass floating villages and get a peek at life on the lake.

Day 4: Explore Angkor Wat

Angkor Archaeological Park was the heart of the Khmer Empire, a powerful civilization that thrived from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Angkor was a huge metropolitan area covering about 400 square kilometers (154 square miles). At its peak in the 12th century, it supported roughly a million people. 

The total number of temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park is staggering—there are over 1,000 temples, with around 72 major temple complexes. It’s impossible to see everything in one day (or even one week), so it’s best to focus on a few key spots. On your first day, start with the three most famous temples. 

Angkor Wat at sunrise

Built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple, its five iconic towers represent Mount Meru, the mythical home of the gods. In the morning light, the reflection in the temple’s pools is stunning, and it’s the perfect time to explore the intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu epics and Khmer history. It;s also a good time to avoid the regular crowds at Angkor Wat.

Angkor Thom and Bayon

Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and you’ll enter through massive gates decorated with carved faces. At its center is Bayon, a temple famous for the 216 stone faces that gaze serenely from 54 towers. .

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm stands out because it’s been left largely untouched, with massive trees and their roots growing over and through the stone walls. The combination of nature reclaiming the temple and the intricate carvings makes it feel like stepping into a lost world. It’s also known as the “Tomb Raider” temple, though it’s impressive with or without the Hollywood tie-in. 

Day 5: Explore the other temples

After visiting Angkor’s most famous temples, take some time to explore the quieter, less crowded ones. 

Preah Khan

Preah Khan is a sprawling temple complex that once housed a Buddhist university. Its name means “Sacred Sword,” and it’s full of long corridors, moss-covered walls, and carvings of sacred geese. It’s less restored than other temples, which I feel gives it a more adventurous feeling. In my opinon, it's one of the best things to do in Cambodia.

Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is a small but incredibly detailed temple made of pink sandstone. Its walls feature intricate depictions of Hindu tales carved with jewelry-like precision. It’s about 20 miles (32 km) from Siem Reap, but the trip is well worth it for anyone who appreciates art and architecture.

Pre Rup

Pre Rup is a striking temple-mountain believed to have been used for royal cremations. Its warm brick tones stand out against the surrounding greenery, and the top level offers one of the best spots for sunset views. It’s a peaceful way to wrap up your time exploring Angkor.

Day 6: Travel to Koh Rong

Getting to Koh Rong is a full-day journey. Start with a morning flight from Siem Reap to Sihanoukville, arriving around mid-day. From there, it’s a quick trip to the ferry terminal to catch an afternoon boat to the island. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and there are some really nice views as you approach the island. 

Arrive in Koh Rong

Koh Rong is Cambodia’s largest island, known for its unspoiled beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Unlike many other islands in Southeast Asia, Koh Rong still feels remote and undeveloped, with no paved roads or big resorts. Instead, you’ll find sandy paths and jungle trails connecting small villages and guesthouses.

If you time it right, you can arrive just in time to catch the sunset on the beach—a great way to settle in. The island doesn’t have any cars or roads, so getting around means walking along beach paths or jungle trails. After dark, make sure to look out for the bioluminescent plankton.

Where to stay in Koh Rong

Koh Rong has a mix of backpacker-friendly and mid-range accommodations. There aren’t any big resorts yet (but that could change soon). Some places only have electricity in the evenings, usually from generators. The overall vibe is laid-back and relaxed.

Day 7: Free day at the beach

Koh Rong is all about taking it slow, so your free day here is the perfect time to unwind. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot, head to Long Beach (Sok San). This 7-kilometer stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear water is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. It’s a quiet area, and during our trip we had the beach to ourselves.

The beach has only a few small places for drinks or snacks, so it’s definitely worth bringing anything you might need for the day. If you stay into the evening, the sunset here is worth waiting for—simple and serene, with nothing but the sound of waves.

When's the best time to visit Cambodia?

The dry season, from November to April, is really the best time to visit Cambodia. The weather is comfortable, with low humidity and almost no rain, and it’s more comfortable to explore temples, cities, and beaches. November to February is especially popular since it’s cooler, while March and April tend to be hotter, particularly around Angkor Wat. See more detail in our guide to Cambodia's weather.

How to get to Cambodia?

Getting to Cambodia from North America usually means connecting through major Asian hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, or Hong Kong. Most international flights land at Phnom Penh (PNH) or Siem Reap (REP), with total travel times of 18–30 hours, including layovers.

From Europe, flights often connect through Bangkok, Singapore, or Dubai, with travel times ranging from 15–20 hours. Bangkok is a common connection, with plenty of short flights to Cambodia. 

How to get around in Cambodia?

In cities, tuk-tuks are everywhere and are an easy, affordable way to get around. Apps like Grab or PassApp can save you from haggling over prices. For shorter trips, motorcycle taxis, known as "motos," are another quick and inexpensive option.

For getting between cities, air-conditioned buses are reliable and comfortable. Minibuses are faster but can feel a bit cramped. If you’re short on time, flying between cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap can be a good option. Private taxis are also available for a more flexible (but pricier) ride, and your hotel can help arrange one.

For island trips like Koh Rong, ferries run regularly from Sihanoukville, although weather can sometimes affect the schedule. 

Can you combine Cambodia with other countries?

Absolutely. Cambodia works well as part of a broader Southeast Asia trip. Many travelers pair it with Thailand, flying into Bangkok and heading overland to Siem Reap or connecting from Thai beach destinations to Sihanoukville. Vietnam is another easy option, with direct routes between Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, including scenic bus or boat rides along the Mekong Delta. 

Is 7 days in Cambodia enough?

Seven days is enough to see the highlights of Cambodia, especially if you focus on the must-sees like Phnom Penh’s historical sites, the Angkor temples, and maybe some downtime in Sihanoukville or Kampot. If you have more time, two to three weeks would let you explore at a more relaxed pace and visit less-touristy spots.

Is Cambodia safe? 

Safety in Cambodia is a common question, and for the most part, it’s a secure destination when approached with basic caution. While Cambodia has had a challenging past, it’s now a welcoming place for travelers. Stick to well-trodden areas, and exercise a bit of care in remote or border regions. With some street smarts, you’ll find it’s a destination you can explore confidently. For more tips, see our Cambodia travel advice. 

If the thought of planning every detail doesn't sound appealing to you, take advantage of our tailor-made trip service. Our trips are designed by travel experts local to the area. They know the best insider tips and can create a fantastic trip for you based on your preferences. See our trip idea gallery for inspiration.

Ready to plan your own Cambodia itinerary? See our Rough Guide to Cambodia for expert insights and plenty of planning tips.