9 Best Places to Visit in Cambodia

Angkor Wat is an iconic site and a must-visit destination. The temple complex is one of Southeast Asia's most significant archaeological sites, preserving centuries of Cambodian history.

The ancient complex was originally a Hindu temple, later becoming a Buddhist site, and to this day exemplifies Khmer architecture and Cambodia’s deep spiritual roots. It is home to impressive monuments, from the three iconic towers to the smaller temples dotting the complex grounds. You can navigate the temples to discover spiritual images intricately carved into the walls and sculptures depicting ancient myths and legends.

One of the best ways to experience Angkor Wat is during a guided sunrise tour, as the sun lifts behind the temples, illuminating the complex in a golden glow.

Highlights: Sunrise at Angkor Wat • Bayon Temple • Ta Prohm Temple

Recommended length of stay: 1 day

Cambodia’s capital is a melting pot of cultural charm. Embodying its Khmer origins and French colonial influences, Phnom Penh introduces you to Cambodian history while inviting you to embrace the bustle of the city center.

Pagodas and museums pepper the cityscape, sharing a look into the spiritual and more tumultuous sides of Cambodia’s past. From the Silver Pagoda, with its glistening silver floor, to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, remembering dramatic events in Cambodian history, Phnom Penh is a discovery of everything to do with the local culture.

Besides touring the city’s most significant sites, you can watch colorful Khmer dance performances, peruse the buzzing markets, or stroll along the promenade to boutiques, bars, and restaurants that reveal a taste of Cambodia.

Highlights: Silver Pagoda • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum • National Museum of Cambodia

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Siem Reap is a gateway to Angkor Wat and lesser-known temples with their own significance in Cambodian culture. The resort town is a welcoming destination that takes you away from the busy cities for a tranquil retreat in the countryside.

Temples are abundant in and around Siem Reap. After visiting Angkor Wat, you can set your sights on unique spiritual sites, whether hidden in the jungle and overgrown with banyan tree roots or constructed from red sandstone and featuring bas-reliefs of monkeys and mythical creatures.

Siem Reap is also a treasure trove of cultural experiences, including authentic Cambodian dining and culinary workshops, and vitalizing local spa treatments and massages.

Highlights: Banteay Srei • Angkor Archaeological Park • Culinary workshops

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Most travelers dreaming of Cambodia picture Angkor Wat as the eminent Khmer temple. However, Prasat Preah Vihear is uniquely iconic as its complex offers some of the best views of the Cambodian plains.

Positioned on the edge of a plateau hanging over the countryside, Prasat Preah Vihear invites you to explore centuries of history, with an evergreen backdrop spreading as far as the eye can see.

The architectural marvel is well-preserved due to its remote location and guided tours can show you the finer details, as well as shed light on the history of the sanctuaries.

Highlights: Prasat Preah Vihear Temple • Koh Ker • Prasat Preah Khan of Kampong Svay

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Koh Russey, sometimes known as Bamboo Island, is a private island and luxury beach resort in the Koh Rong archipelago. With gorgeous rooms, top amenities, and access to a copper sand beach, Koh Russey is a tranquil escape from mainland Cambodia.

Most retreat to Koh Russey for downtime after thorough explorations of major Cambodian cities and temple sites. On the island, you can trade daily tours for afternoons on the beach or cultural adventures for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

Time slows down on Koh Russey as you leisurely enjoy island activities, whether slowly navigating the waters on a sunset cruise or picnicking on the sun-kissed shores.

Highlights: Beach days • Sunset cruises • Kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding

Recommended length of stay: 2-3 days

Visiting the floating villages of Tonlé Sap Lake is one of the most culturally enriching experiences in Cambodia. The massive freshwater lake, part of the Mekong River system, is significant to thousands of locals who have built villages on stilts above the water.

You can navigate the lake by traditional boat to visit these villages and meet the local people. Connecting with the community, you can learn about the lives of these Cambodians, sometimes referred to as the country’s “forgotten people”.

Some villages reveal ancient artisanal traditions, while others are home to modest temples and, along the banks of the lake, there is magnificent biodiversity.

Highlights: Kompong Khleang • Kompong Phluk • Mechrey

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

The Koh Kong Conservation Corridor is a lush rainforest spreading across Cambodia, and its highlight is the Cardamom Mountains. With rolling peaks draped in vegetation and concealing waterfalls, ancient sites, and more, the mountain range abounds with adventures for enthusiastic explorers.

Koh Kong is home to abundant wildlife wandering the forest floor and birdlife flittering between the trees. Thundering waterfalls offer a chance to sit back and enjoy the views without another traveler in sight.

From the Cardamom Mountains to the remote beaches and rivers, there is a wealth to discover outdoors when exploring the corridor.

Highlights: Cardamom Mountains • Tatai Waterfall • Koh Kong Beach

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Another outdoor adventure paradise for active travelers, Mundulkiri is a sparsely populated and sweeping expanse of protected forest.

Some refer to the region as the “Serengeti of Asia”, as it reminds travelers of the breathtaking African landscape and protects many marvelous creatures. From dholes to silvered langur monkeys, leopards, and Cambodia’s national bird, the giant ibis, you can quickly discover why Mundulkiri is one of Asia’s top safari spots.

Explore with guides searching for endemic wildlife, with opportunities to see rare animals and famous birds around every corner and behind every tree.

Highlights: Wildlife viewing • Bousra Waterfall • Mondulkiri Project Elephant Sanctuary

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Chase waterfalls and follow rivers weaving through lush forests in the province of Ratanakiri, a region of unending natural beauty.

Circle the waterways to floating villages and delve deeper into Cambodian culture, trek the forests to cascading waterfalls for a quiet afternoon in paradise, or visit forgotten temples barely visible beneath the overgrowth.

Finally, hike to a viewpoint overlooking Boeng Yeak Loam, a breathtaking circular lake in the middle of the forest, its turquoise blues juxtaposing the vivid green canopy.

Highlights: Boeng Yeak Loam • Cha Ong Waterfall • Kachanh Waterfall

Recommended length of stay: 1-2 days

Cambodia, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is waiting to be explored. From the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the bustling capital city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia offers travelers a wide array of sights and experiences. The nine destinations highlighted in this article provide an excellent overview of some of the top attractions across the country.

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in ancient history at Angkor Wat, take in the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh, or relax on the beaches of Sihanoukville, find ideas with our Cambodia tours or inspiration in our Cambodia travel guide.