Ultimate 10 Days in Cambodia Itinerary: Travel Route

This blog post is all about a 10 days in Cambodia itinerary.

After spending one unforgettable month travelling through South Thailand, we crossed the border from Bangkok to begin the next leg of our Southeast Asian adventure: 10 days in Cambodia.

Our first stop? Siem Reap, home to the legendary temples of Angkor. From there, we explored the countryside charm of Battambang, before ending in the bustling capital, Phnom Penh, where we caught a bus to Ho Chi Minh City to start our journey through Vietnam.

The people of Cambodia are warm and welcoming, yet poverty is still far more visible here than in neighbouring Vietnam or Thailand.

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This blog post is all about a 10 days in Cambodia itinerary.

10 Days in Cambodia: An Introduction to Cambodia

Cambodia is one of those places that grabs you the moment you arrive.

It’s a country where ancient temples peek out from the jungle, where the streets hum with tuk tuks, sizzling woks, and the smell of strong iced coffee, and where the people have this incredible warmth that makes you feel at home straight away.

Most travellers come here with one thing in mind: Angkor Wat. And yes, watching the sunrise over those lotus ponds is pretty unforgettable.

But Cambodia is so much more than Siem Reap. It’s endless green rice paddies, tiny roadside stalls selling fresh coconuts, French colonial towns that feel frozen in time, and capital-city chaos that somehow works.

Cambodia’s past hasn’t been easy. The Khmer Rouge years were brutal, and the reminders are everywhere, in museums, memorials, and in the stories people still carry.

But this is also a place of serious resilience. You’ll see it in the small businesses popping up, in the kids playing football in the street, and in the way locals always seem ready to share a laugh.

Travelling here is a mix of adventure and real connection. One day you’re clambering over temple ruins, the next you’re on a rickety boat down the Mekong, then you’re sipping a cold Angkor beer while the sun dips behind the palm trees.

It’s busy, it’s chaotic, it’s beautiful, and yes, sometimes it will push you out of your comfort zone.

But that’s what makes Cambodia so special. By the time you leave, you’ll have more than just photos.

You’ll have a whole collection of moments, from the random to the magical, that will stay with you long after you’ve moved on to your next destination.

A Brief (but Important) History of Cambodia

Cambodia’s history stretches back over a thousand years, and you can still see much of it carved into the stones of Angkor Wat and the many temples of the Khmer Empire.

Between the 9th and 15th centuries, this empire was one of the most advanced and powerful in Southeast Asia, ruling over much of modern-day Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam.

They built incredible cities, irrigation systems, and temples that still leave visitors speechless today.

But Cambodia’s story isn’t just one of ancient glory. In the centuries that followed, the kingdom was weakened by invasions from its neighbours and later became a French colony from 1863 to 1953.

After independence, Cambodia saw political turmoil, but nothing prepared the country for what would come in the 1970s.

The Khmer Rouge Years (1975–1979)

In April 1975, the Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, took control of Phnom Penh.

What followed was one of the darkest chapters in modern history.

Their aim was to turn Cambodia into a classless, agrarian society. They emptied the cities, forcing millions of people into the countryside to work in labour camps.

Anyone seen as an intellectual or a threat (teachers, doctors, monks, people who spoke foreign languages, even those who simply wore glasses) was at risk of execution. Religion, money, schools, and family life were all banned.

The regime’s paranoia and brutality led to the deaths of an estimated 1.7 to 2 million people through starvation, disease, overwork, and mass executions.

The regime collapsed in 1979 when Vietnamese forces invaded, but the scars it left are still visible today. Not just in the physical sites, but in the memories and stories of the Cambodian people.

Where to Learn About the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia

If you really want to understand modern Cambodia, you need to see and hear this history for yourself.

Two of the most important sites are in Phnom Penh:

1. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)

Address: Street 113, Phnom Penh

Originally a high school, this building was turned into the regime’s most notorious prison and interrogation centre.

Walking through its stark rooms, you’ll see photographs, prisoner records, and haunting personal accounts.

It’s confronting and harrowing, but it’s also one of the most important museums in Southeast Asia.

2. Choeung Ek Killing Fields

Address: 15km south of Phnom Penh

One of the many sites across Cambodia where mass executions took place.

Today, it’s a peaceful memorial site with a stupa filled with the skulls of victims, preserved as a stark reminder of the atrocities.

An audio guide takes you through the history, survivor stories, and the significance of each area.

We visited both places listed above, and I will warn you that both are incredibly emotionally heavy, so it’s worth allowing yourself some quiet time afterwards to process what you’ve seen.

Why Cambodia’s History Matters for Travellers

It’s impossible to truly appreciate Cambodia without understanding the trauma its people have endured.

This is a young country as the majority of Cambodians are under 30, and almost everyone you meet will have a family story connected to this era.

Visiting these sites respectfully, and supporting local businesses, is one small way travellers can honour the resilience of the Cambodian people.

10 Days in Cambodia: Days 1–4 in Siem Reap

We entered Cambodia by bus from Bangkok, crossing at Poipet.

This border is notorious for being chaotic, so patience is key. Scams, touts, and slow processing are common.

Once in Siem Reap, you’ll find it’s a small but lively city, centred around Pub Street and the Old Market.

It’s the perfect base to explore Angkor Archaeological Park, one of the most spectacular sights in the world.

10 Days in Cambodia: How to Get from Bangkok to Siem Reap

Since we had just wrapped up a month exploring Southern Thailand, we started our 10 days in Cambodia journey by taking the bus from Bangkok to Siem Reap.

The journey takes about 8–9 hours including the border crossing at Poipet.

Buses and minivans run daily from Bangkok’s Mo Chit bus station or Khao San Road, and companies like Giant Ibis (who we booked with) and Virak Buntham are reliable choices.

Be prepared for the border crossing to take a while (up to two hours on busy days) and make sure you have your Cambodian visa sorted in advance to avoid overpaying “on the spot” fees.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Below are some options of where to stay in Siem Reap, from budget to luxury.

1. Budget Hostel in Siem Reap: Onederz Siem Reap

Address: Sok San Road, Siem Reap City Centre

Onederz Siem Reap is a backpacker-friendly hostel with a rooftop pool overlooking the city, clean dorms, and private rooms.

Located a short walk from Pub Street, but far enough to get a decent night’s sleep.

2. Mid-Range Hotel in Siem Reap: The Urban Hotel

Address: #74, Street 20, Wat Bo Area

The Urban Hotel is a peaceful spot in the Wat Bo neighbourhood, about 10 minutes from the Old Market. Rooms are modern, air-conditioned, and very comfortable.

There’s a lovely outdoor pool surrounded by greenery, and the staff go out of their way to help with tours and transport.

You can read my full review of our stay at The Urban Hotel here!

3. Luxury Hotel in Siem Reap: Jaya House River Park

Address: River Road, Treang Village

Jaya House River Park boutique is a riverside hotel with Khmer-inspired décor, a spa, and complimentary tuk-tuk rides around town.

A quiet, eco-conscious retreat.

Best Things to Do in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat sunrise – Arrive early to watch the temple glow gold over the lotus pond.
Bayon Temple – Famous for its 200 carved smiling faces.
Ta Prohm – The “Tomb Raider” temple, where tree roots dramatically engulf ancient stone walls.
Angkor Night Market – Handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus – Acrobatics and theatre telling uniquely Cambodian stories.

Where to Eat in Siem Reap

1. Sister Srey Café

Bright and airy café run by two Australian sisters. Excellent coffee, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls. Supports education programs for underprivileged youth.

2. WILD Creative Bar & Eatery

A fairy-light-filled garden serving playful small plates like Khmer tacos and fried wontons.

3. Khmer Kitchen

Local favourite for hearty curries, stir-fries, and traditional fish amok.

4. Gelato Lab

Artisanal gelato shop with adventurous flavours like dark chocolate chilli and mango passionfruit sorbet.

How to Get from Siem Reap to Battambang

You’ve got two main options:

By Bus/Minivan – The most common way, taking around 3–4 hours. Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, and Virak Buntham all offer comfortable rides with hotel pick-up.
By Boat – The scenic (and slower) option, taking 6–8 hours along the Sangker River. It’s an incredible way to see floating villages and rural river life, but note that comfort levels are basic and water levels can affect travel times.

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10 Days in Cambodia: Days 5–6 in Battambang

Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city, yet it feels like a sleepy riverside town.

French colonial architecture lines the streets, and the countryside is dotted with ancient temples, caves, and fruit farms.

From Siem Reap, take a 3–4 hour bus or, for the adventurous, the bamboo train experience. The road winds through rice paddies and small villages.

Where to Stay in Battambang

Below are some options of where to stay in Battambang, from budget to luxury.

1. Budget Hostel in Battambang: The Place

Address: Road No. 3, City Centre

Artsy hostel with murals, mismatched furniture, and a sociable courtyard. Offers both dorms and private rooms.

2. Mid-Range Hotel in Battambang: Royal Hotel (Where we stayed)

Address: Street 119, City Centre

Spacious rooms with tiled floors and large windows. Rooftop terrace with sunset views. Walking distance to markets and the river.

3. Luxury Hotel in Battambang: Bambu Hotel

Address: Street 155, East Bank of the Sangker River

Stylish boutique hotel blending colonial and Khmer design, with a saltwater pool and lush garden.

Best Things to Do in Battambang

Bamboo Train Ride – A quirky ride through the countryside on a flat bamboo platform powered by a small engine.
Phnom Sampeau – Site of the Killing Caves, with panoramic views and a daily bat exodus at sunset.
Ek Phnom Temple – An 11th-century temple surrounded by giant Buddha statues.
Local market strolls – Try fresh tropical fruit and street snacks.

Where to Eat in Battambang

1. Jaan Bai Restaurant

Social enterprise serving modern Khmer dishes. Pork belly with tamarind sauce is a highlight.

2. Café Eden

Plant-filled café offering hearty breakfasts, fresh juices, and homemade cakes.

3. White Rose Restaurant

Busy local spot for noodle soups and fresh spring rolls at very budget-friendly prices.

How to Get from Battambang to Phnom Penh

The bus is the easiest and cheapest way to make the journey, taking around 6–7 hours.

Buses leave throughout the day, and mid-morning departures let you avoid arriving late at night.

The road is mostly paved, but Cambodian highways can still be bumpy. Bring snacks, water, and patience.

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10 Days in Cambodia: Days 7–10 in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and largest city.

It’s vibrant yet gritty, with French colonial buildings sitting alongside modern developments. It’s also where much of Cambodia’s tragic 20th-century history is remembered.

Buses from Battambang to Phnom Penh take 5–6 hours. The scenery is a mix of farmland, rivers, and bustling roadside towns.

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

Below are some options of where to stay in Phnom Penh, from budget to luxury.

1. Budget Hostel in Phnom Penh: Sla Boutique Hostel

Address: Street 174, Daun Penh District

Modern, minimalist dorms and private rooms in a central location.

2. Mid-Range Hotel in Phnom Penh: The White Corner Hotel

Address: Street 118, Daun Penh District

Spacious, minimalist rooms with spotless bathrooms. Walking distance to the riverside and cafes.

You can read my full review of our stay at The White Corner Hotel here!

3. Luxury Hotel in Phnom Penh: Raffles Hotel Le Royal

Address: 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh

Historic colonial hotel with lush gardens, pools, and an elegant afternoon tea.

Best Things to Do in Phnom Penh

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – Former prison where thousands were tortured during the Khmer Rouge regime.
Choeung Ek Killing Fields – Mass grave site and memorial stupa.
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda – Gleaming spires and intricate mosaics.
Central Market – Art Deco building with jewellery, clothes, and souvenirs.
Sunset cruise on the Mekong – Beautiful views of the city skyline.

Where to Eat in Phnom Penh

1. Friends the Restaurant

NGO-run restaurant training street youth. Tapas-style Khmer fusion dishes.

2. Eleven One Kitchen

Leafy courtyard dining with preservative-free Khmer curries and stir-fries.

3. Nesat Seafood House

Fresh seafood grilled with Cambodian spices. Try the pepper crab.

How to Get from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

Our final leg in Cambodia was the bus from Phnom Penh into Ho Chi Minh City.

This is a 6–7 hour ride with a border crossing at Bavet/Moc Bai. Giant Ibis runs this route daily and handles the visa process efficiently.

Make sure your Vietnamese visa is sorted in advance (unless you qualify for visa-free entry).

The road is smooth, and before you know it, the chaos of Phnom Penh is replaced by the buzzing streets of Saigon.

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10 Days in Cambodia Itinerary

Our 10 days in Cambodia took us from the temple-studded plains of Siem Reap to the colonial charm of Battambang, and finally to the bustling riverside energy of Phnom Penh.

Along the way, we wandered through history both ancient and modern, from the grandeur of Angkor Wat to the sobering memorials of the Khmer Rouge era.

We ate our weight in street food, shared laughs with tuk tuk drivers, and saw a side of Southeast Asia that’s as raw and real as it is beautiful.

Cambodia isn’t always easy. The poverty here is more visible than in Thailand or Vietnam, and its recent history still weighs heavy.

But it’s also a country full of kindness, resilience, and unforgettable moments. The kind that stick with you long after your trip.

Leaving Phnom Penh on the bus to Ho Chi Minh City felt bittersweet. We were excited for the next chapter of our travels in Vietnam, but a part of us knew 10 days in Cambodia had left its mark.

From the quiet dignity of its people to the jaw-dropping beauty of its temples, this country is more than just a stop on a Southeast Asia itinerary, it’s a journey in itself.