Read the Cambodia Guide overview
Welcome to Cambodia, a Southeast Asian kingdom full of smiley faces, Angkorian temples, and lovely yet underrated cuisine. The country is a backpacker's paradise, but it also caters to mid-range and elite travelers. And, if you plan a trip to this charming corner of Asia, Cambodia Guide by Top Travel and Tours is all you need.
Moreover, Cambodia's neighbors are Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam. Thus, you can enjoy a trip to some of the top tourist destinations of Southeast Asia from there with ease. For now, let's mention:
- Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Chang Mai in Thailand
- Luang Prabang and Vientiane in Laos
- Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, and Hoi An in Vietnam
Top Tourist Destinations and Attractions in Cambodia
You can find tourist points of interest all over the kingdom. But, the most popular destinations among travelers are Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, and Sihanoukville by far.
Siem Reap—The Gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park
Siem Reap is the number one tourist destination in Cambodia. And the reason can't be more obvious – Angkor Archaeological Park. However, the city itself and nearby Tonle Sap Lake are worth exploring, as well.
But, there can be only one king. And the archaeological site boasting some of the top-rated attractions of Asia is the undisputed contender. While you sightsee the park, don't miss:
- Angkor Wat (Temple City), the principal landmark in the area featured in various movies that prides itself on extensive works of art
- Bayon—the "Mona Lisa of Southeast Asia"—in Angkor Thom, an old Khmer capital city
- Ta Prohm, a Hindu temple reclaimed by nature, which you'll recognize from scenes in the Tomb Raider movie
- And Banteay Srei, a slightly distanced temple renowned for intricate artwork introducing Hindu deities Indra, Krishna (Vishnu), and Shiva
Phnom Penh, the Capital City of the Kingdom of Cambodia
Situated at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is the ideal starting point of your trip to Cambodia. Firstly, it is the country's principal transport hub served by airlines, buses, trains, and boats. Secondly, it's the best place for tourists to learn about Khmer history and culture.
To that end, visit the following Phnom Penh tourist attractions and landmarks:
- Royal Palace, which has palaces and other structures in Khmer style boasting golden roofs and spires. Furthermore, pay attention to the silver tiles of the on-site Silver Pagoda, housing the Emerald Buddha statue.
- National Museum displays works of art introducing the Angkor era of the Khmer Empire. Neighboring periods are introduced, too. Also, the museum stages the Apsara Dance show.
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offers an overview of the country's past during the Khmer Rouge regime. Note that during this dark period, around a quarter of the nation's populace perished.
Sihanoukville—A Holiday Resort on the Gulf of Thailand
Finally, Sihanoukville is the biggest resort on the Cambodian coastline. And there are several fine beaches a short drive away from the town. Ream Beach in the namesake national park, Otres, and Ochheuteal are some you'd want to check out. Moreover, the settlement features shopping malls and casinos if you wish to put your luck to the test.
Also, note that this destination experiences rapid development, some would say overdevelopment. So, you may want to check out nearby islands, such as Koh Roh Sanloem and Koh Roh, to stay close to nature during your Cambodia holiday.
Note that construction works are underway on those two islands, too, as reported by holidaymakers in early 2024. However, information about the scale of these works is contradictory, depending on who you ask. So, if you're up for a beach vacation and don't want to take any chances, Thailand may be a better choice.
Getting Around in Cambodia by Airplane, Bus, Boat, and Train
In short, airplanes, boats, and trains can get you somewhere in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Buses, on the other hand, take you almost everywhere.
There are several airports throughout Cambodia, three of which are international—Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.
Aside from airplanes, tourists get between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh by boat. Yet, commuting between these top Cambodian destinations via the Tonle Sap River is possible only during the rainy season (May–October). As for the rest of the year, low water levels render boat tours uncertain.
Next, bus routes criss-cross Cambodia. And the one-way fare you'll pay typically doesn't exceed a dozen USD, if that.
Finally, the Royal Railways currently operate from Poipet, near the Thai border, via Battambang to Phnom Penh. From there, you can get to Sihanoukville by train. In the future, planned railway extensions will go through Siem Reap and Kampong Cham, and connect Cambodia to Laos and Vietnam.
Cambodia Travel Guide Wrap Up
That's it, folks, for now. However, make sure to check back our Cambodia Guide now and then because we'll cover other travel-related stuff about this friendly country.
In the meantime, refer to our destination guides below and top activities. And feel free to drop us a message if you have any questions about your vacation in Cambodia.
