A 5 day Cambodia travel itinerary. Ancient temples and dark tourism.
The haunting history of Phnom Penh… And the sunrise magic of Angkor Wat…
All in a few days… Cambodia is a travel juxtaposition like no other!
Thinking of spending 5 days in Cambodia and not sure where to begin? You’re in the right place.
Planning a tight, meaningful itinerary here can be overwhelming: What should you skip? Is 5 days enough? How do you move between cities — or avoid the tourist traps?
These were the exact questions I asked while planning my Asia trip.
And after experiencing Cambodia for myself, a country as elusive as it is unforgettable… I’ve crafted this 5-day itinerary to help you do it all: smartly, soulfully, and without stress.
This guide isn’t just a list of sights…
It’s a travel-tested route that blends history, culture, cuisine, and local life, all in an immersive and budget-friendly way.
Let’s dive into one of Southeast Asia’s most unforgettable destinations… Starting with Phnom Penh and ending in the temple-laced wonder of Siem Reap.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.
Why visit Cambodia?
Cambodia isn’t just another stop in Southeast Asia… It’s a country that has stayed long in my memory!
Before arriving I associated tuk tuks, temples, and dark history with the country…
But there is so much more than that:
An iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat – one of the most memorable travel experiences anywhere.
Street food and local markets – cheap, tasty, and a great way to connect with everyday life.
A deep, complex history – from ancient Khmer ruins to the sobering reminders of the Khmer Rouge.
Warm, welcoming people – locals who go out of their way to help, even with a language barrier.
Easy budget travel – you can stretch your money here without missing out on comfort or experience.
These are just a few of the things that made my time in Cambodia memorable.
Whether you're into culture, food, photography, or just want a trip that feels like more than ticking off landmarks, Cambodia delivers.
Even with just 5 days, you can experience a surprising amount of the culture, contrast, and energy that makes this place so unique.
Temple run at Angkor Thom.
Cambodia Itinerary Overview.
A fast look at how this 5-day Cambodia itinerary flows… From the capital city to ancient temples, with culture, history, and hidden gems along the way.
Quick Snapshot.
Day 1 - Exploring the history of Phnom Penh.
Day 2 - Street art and local food in the capital.
Day 3 - Welcome to Siem Reap.
Day 4 - Angkor Wat and surrounding temples.
Day 5 - Finding the hidden corners of Siem Reap.
It is easy to get stung for data in countries like Cambodia.
Plan ahead - 👉 Get your Cambodia e-visa in advance.
Local life in Siem Reap.
Travel Tips.
Before we dive into the day-by-day itinerary, here are a few things that I wish I knew before arrival. If it’s your first time in Cambodia, these tips could be worth their weight in gold.
Visa.
Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival ($30 USD), but it’s faster to apply for an e-visa online.
👉 Get your Cambodia e-visa here.
Currency.
Cambodia uses the riel, but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Bring small bills.
Avoid ATM fees with a travel card like Monzo.
Getting Around.
Tuk tuks are cheap and fun, or use the Grab app for fair, no-hassle pricing. 12Go is a very reliable option for longer journeys in Cambodia.
Need mobile data? Grab a Cambodia eSIM here.
When to go.
Nov–Mar = dry season, best for sightseeing.
May–Oct = greener, quieter, with short daily rain.
It’s hot year-round, so dress light.
Book your first night’s hotel ahead of time, especially in Phnom Penh — I use Booking.com for reliable options and free cancellation.
Day 1 - Arrival in Phnom Penh.
Dark History & Chilled Evenings.
When I arrived in Phnom Penh, it was clear straight away that this city has a lot going on… Busy streets, old temples, faded French buildings, and a tough history that’s hard to ignore.
The tuk tuk journey from the airport was fun and frantic - the perfect introduction to Cambodia!
Morning – Arrival & check-In.
Whether you’re flying in or arriving by land, give yourself time to settle and orientate.
Tuk tuks are the easiest way to get around but you should use the Grab app for fixed prices and fewer surprises. I had no issues using the Grab app anywhere in Asia.
👉 Book your Phnom Penh hotel here.
Where to stay:
Budget: Onederz Hostel.
Mid-range: Arison Hotel.
Boutique: Grand Mansion.
The infamous Choeung Ek stupa in the capital.
A very sad visit to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields.
My first afternoon in Phnom Penh wasn’t easy, but it was important.
I headed out to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, which is about 30–40 minutes from the city.
Most tuk tuk drivers offer a round trip that includes waiting time, so it’s easy to organise on the spot, however I opted for the highly rated guided tour, and I’m glad I did.
It’s a calm, almost rural setting… But what happened here is horrific.
Having a local guide walk us through the site added context and meaning I wouldn’t have picked up on alone. He shared not just the history, but also personal stories…
Including some of his own — which made it all feel very real and very human.
We passed mass graves, chilling markers, and ended at the memorial stupa, filled with skulls to honour the victims. You can also purchase a flower to leave at the base of the stupa… A small but respectful gesture.
Our tour guide was very passionate and this came across in the tour.
It’s not an easy place to visit, but I left with a much deeper understanding of Cambodia’s recent history. It gave real context to everything else I experienced during the trip.
Want to take the same tour?
You can book a guided tour of the Killing Fields and S21 with hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and everything handled for you.
This is the exact tour I booked, and I found our guide to be very informative and professional, even though his grandparents were killed during the dark times…
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A very sad spot of the site.
A visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21).
After visiting the Killing Fields, we made our way back into the city to explore Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which is also known as S21.
It's housed in what was once a high school, before it was turned into a prison and torture centre during the Khmer Rouge years.
Walking through the old classrooms, turned holding cells was very disturbing…
Some still have blood stains on the floors, and rusted bed frames chained to the walls.
One moment that really stuck with me was standing at a window, looking out through barbed wire at the city skyline… The contrast between past and present was surreal.
Views from inside the cell blocks.
The reality of the situation become appararent when the group was introduced to two actual survivors of S21, sitting quietly near the entrance, signing books.
They endured what happened here and now share their stories with visitors. It was hard to process, but incredibly humbling.
One of the cell blocks.
If you're thinking of visiting both S21 and the Killing Fields, I highly recommend doing them together - ideally with a guide who can help explain the deeper context.
You can book a combined Tuol Sleng + Killing Fields tour with pickup and a local guide — it made the experience far more meaningful than going solo.
A blood soaked cell.
An evening stroll and several Angkor beers.
After such a full-on day, I kept the evening simple, just a relaxed stroll along Riverside (Sisowath Quay).
It’s a popular spot with locals and travellers, lined with palm trees, tuk tuks, market stalls, and the odd street musician.
I wandered through the Phnom Penh Night Market, grabbed some grilled skewers, and ended up at a lively bar overlooking the river.
The riverfront in Phom Penh lit up.
The nightlife in Phnom Penh around the popular ‘walking streets’ is very lively and has similar vibes to areas of Bangkok and Pattaya in Thailand.
The first day is very full on in terms of emotions, so you might not be in the mood to party!
There are multiple bar streets which get lively on a night.
Day 2 - Phnom Penh’s Creative Pulse.
Street art and foodie tour, temples, and tuk tuks.
After the intensity of Day 1, today was all about exploring Phnom Penh’s modern personality…
Colourful, chaotic, and full of flavour. Street art, hidden temples, and some of the best local food I had on the whole trip.
It felt like the city was showing a whole different side — one that’s vibrant, expressive, and seriously underrated.
If you’ve got a free morning, this street art and market tuk tuk tour is a brilliant way to dive into it with a local guide who knows the real spots. 👉 Check it out here →
Another scene glowing in the dark in the capital.
A modern vibe on this street in the day time.
An uplift of vibes for day 2.
Rare record stores, hipster streets, and stylish bars… Phnom Penh has a cool, modern edge that’s easy to miss if you don’t go looking, but unforgettable once you find it.
Meeting a fun local.
I’m not going to lie, as my awareness of the history of the country was raised, my first day in Phomn Penh left me sad, confused, and and pretty heavy.
But Day 2 flipped that energy.
Meeting our local guide for the street art and street food tour was exactly the lift I needed.
Jackson was funny, passionate, and proud to show us a different side of his city…
One full of creativity, flavour, and everyday life. It reminded me why I love travel - connection, perspective, and a few laughs along the way.
Space Four Zero Record Store.
We kicked things off with ‘Bay Sach Chruk’ for breakfast — a simple but tasty local dish of pork and rice.
Then we hopped in a tuk tuk and set off to explore the city’s creative side, learning about everyday life in a place that was literally emptied just a few decades ago.
Some very accurate street art.
Jackson is one of so many amazing people who I met during my time in Cambodia.
You should meet him yourself when you head over.
Here is the tour which he runs - check times & reviews here →
Learning about the artistic side of the city.
Want to go beyond the usual sights and really dig into Phnom Penh’s creative side?
👉 This street art and local market tuk tuk tour gives you a fun, local-led look at hidden murals, morning markets, and everyday life — no guesswork, no hassle.
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Some more Cambodian themed art.
Prefer another educational day?
If you'd rather swap out street art for something more historical, the National Museum of Cambodia is a solid choice.
Located right in central Phnom Penh, it’s easy to reach by tuk tuk and offers a great overview of Khmer history, art, and culture…
I found it to very useful before heading to Angkor.
It’s compact, peaceful, and the shady courtyard is a bonus in the midday heat.
Go early to avoid the heat and crowds. Allow around an hour, or even more if you’re really into sculpture or pre-Angkor history.
The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh.
Day 3 - Welcome to Siem Reap
Gateway to temples, street food, and some unexpected surprises.
After the energy of Phnom Penh, arriving in Siem Reap felt like a total shift - I found it to be calmer, cleaner, and way more compact.
My first impressions of Siem Reap were backpacker hub vs laid-back cultural town…
You can feel it is on the up, as a result of being in the main Asia backpacking route, so plenty fun was had!
Most people come here for one reason: to see Angkor Wat. And fair enough, it’s one of the world’s most iconic sights.
But Siem Reap has plenty to offer outside the temples too:
Buzzing night markets full of street food, clothes, and souvenirs.
The famous (and chaotic) Pub Street, lined with bars, restaurants, and music.
Excellent coffee shops and creative local eateries.
Spa and massage spots that won’t break the bank.
Local art spaces, galleries, and bike-friendly streets.
Tuk Tuk central in Siem Reap.
Exploring the city.
With Day 4’s plans being hectic, I spent my first day in Siem Reap with no real plan, just wandering through the town, and honestly, that’s one of the best ways to experience it.
Especially as a first time visitor.
I stumbled across picturesque little temples tucked between buildings, music-themed street art down random alleys…
And even a bird lady selling live sparrows for good luck releases
(a local tradition, although not one I took part in).
I found the place to have a creative energy, with a mix of laid-back locals, curious travellers, and unexpected moments around every corner.
If you’ve got time before dinner, just go for a wander. You’ll find more than you expect.
I don’t like the bird selling culture.
Day 4 - Angkor Wat and other famous temples.
Sunrise, stone faces, and mind-blowing ruins… A travel day for the books
When I was planned my Cambodia itinerary, this was the day I was most excited about… And it totally lived up to the hype.
You’ve seen Angkor Wat in photos, but nothing prepares you for that moment on the platform, watching the sky shift colours as the sun rises behind those iconic towers.
Day 4 was all about temples, but not in a checklist way.
Each one has its own vibe…
From the legendary sunrise, to massive stone faces, to jungle-covered ruins that feel like movie sets… This day is unforgettable.
It’s going to be a long one, so set your alarm, pack a power bank, and get ready to channel your inner Tomb Raider.
Exploring the temples.
Sunrise at Angkor Wat.
Yes, it’s early. Yes, it’s busy.
But sunrise at Angkor Wat is something you’ll never forget!
I was picked up before 5 a.m. — pitch black, half-asleep, and still slightly regretting the several Angkor beers from the night before. So yeah... I wasn’t exactly buzzing for this one at first.
If there is ever a travel moment to perk you up though, it’s this one!
As we entered the temple grounds in the eerie dark, the sound of insects was deafening, it felt like walking into a movie set.
Not going to lie, standing on the edge of the platform in pitch black… It took a while for the magic to kick in.
But when it did, it was spectacular.
Watching the towers slowly take shape against a purple sky was unreal — and having our guide Mr T lead us to the perfect photo spot made it even better.
It’s fair to say my camera roll was full… Full of awesomeness.
Mr T, and a very fun tour group.
This is where I took some of my favourite photos in Cambodia. The soft morning light is perfect — and it sticks with you long after.
👉 Want to see Angkor Wat at sunrise without the stress?
Book this top-rated sunrise tour with hotel pickup, entrance help, and a great local guide.
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A very tired lad.
Two other fun famous temples.
After Angkor Wat, you might think the rest of the temples are just bonus material, but Bayon and Ta Prohm are honestly just as memorable in their own ways.
Bayon Temple.
Bayon is the one with all the massive stone faces, and I found it a bit surreal.
You walk in and suddenly you’re surrounded by these giant, carved heads looking in every direction.
Some are smiling, some are weathered, and depending on the light, they almost seem to change expression.
Once again, Mr T knew the best spots, so we got some amazing photos.
If Angkor Wat is about sunrises and sweeping wide angles, Bayon is all about the close-up details, and it’s those little textures and carvings create some unique backdrops.
This top-rated sunrise tour includes Bayon and Ta Prohm also, so high value for money.
👉 Check times, prices & reviews here →
A great shot in Bayon Temple.
An iconic shot at Angkor Thom.
Ta Prohm (aka the Tomb Raider Temple).
Yes, it’s the one Angelina Jolie made famous… And yes, it still looks amazing.
Huge tree roots have wrapped themselves around the crumbling stone walls, like nature is halfway through reclaiming it.
It’s a bit overgrown, slightly eerie, and incredibly photogenic.
One last shoutout to Mr T… His ‘temple run’ photo idea was a winner, and the whole group was buzzing with it.
It feels a bit more wild compared to Angkor Wat’s symmetry, I didn’t know what I was going to see around the next corner.
Enjoying the temple grounds nearer the city centre.
Day 5 - Bar Street, indoor market, and hidden corners.
For my final day in Cambodia, I kept it light and local… Wandering through markets, finding quiet corners, and soaking up Siem Reap’s easygoing vibe.
One thing that really surprised me about Siem Reap was the quality of the coffee shops. It felt like a less touristy version of the café culture you get in Hanoi, Chiang Mai and Da Nang.
I headed to Bakong Restaurant & Cafe, and I’d definitely recommend it.
The air conditioning was a life-saver in the mid-morning humidity, and the space had a clean, modern vibe.
The menu was packed with options - I went for a matcha latte and chicken quesadillas (not very Khmer, but absolutely hit the spot).
It’s a great spot to relax, refuel, and ease into your last day.
There are some very modern cafes in Siem Reap.
Finding the Hidden Corners.
On my last day, I slowed the pace and went looking for Siem Reap’s quieter side, the kind of randomness I enjoy in Asia when stepping off the main streets for a wander.
I started with a short bike ride to Wat Preah Prom Rath, a beautifully kept riverside temple right in town.
It’s much smaller than the big-name temples, but I had the place pretty much to myself, a nice change after the crowds at Angkor the day before.
Honestly, I was all templed out after this one… And happy to just take it easy.
But if you’re still up for more, check out Bakong or Banteay Srei. They’re both a bit outside the main zone, less visited, and offer a more peaceful end to your Angkor experience.
There isn’t too far between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
💃 Want to end your trip with something truly special?
An evening at a traditional Apsara dance show is the perfect send-off.
Beautiful costumes, graceful storytelling, and a huge Cambodian buffet to match — it’s a cultural highlight that feels both relaxing and memorable.
👉 Book your Apsara Dance Show + Buffet Dinner here →
Highly rated, easy to book, and a great way to wrap up your Cambodia adventure.
The river which runs through Siem Reap.
Evening – Pub Street.
By this point in my Asia trip I had enjoyed my fair share of beers and parties…
However, the ice cold $1 Angkor beers are too hard to turn down!
Love it or hate it, Pub Street is a must-see, and is home to most of the town’s action in the evening.
It can get as lively as you want it to - Loud music and neon lights are never too far away.
But for my last night, I went for something more low-key.
A few blocks off Pub Street, I ended up at ‘Khmer Grill’ — a solid local spot with loads of good reviews.
Friendly staff, decent prices, and proper Cambodian dishes done well. I had the beef lok lak (so good) with an Angkor beer, and just chilled out for a bit.
Quiet and peaceful, exactly what I needed after a packed few days.
Some unique street art in Siem Reap.
Getting around Cambodia.
Getting around Cambodia is easier than you might expect… Transport is affordable, fairly reliable, and well-connected between major spots.
🚍 Phnom Penh ⇆ Siem Reap.
The most common route for travellers.
Bus or Minivan – Budget-friendly and frequent (6–7 hours).
Private Car – More comfort, ideal for groups or families.
Domestic Flights – Short (under 1 hr), but not always worth it unless you're tight on time.
A tuk tuk in Siem Reap.
In the cities (Phnom Penh & Siem Reap).
Tuk Tuks – Cheap, fun, and everywhere. Use the Grab app for fair pricing.
Bikes & Scooters – Rentable in Siem Reap if you're comfortable navigating traffic.
Walking – Totally doable in central Siem Reap, less so in Phnom Penh due to traffic.
Beyond the basics: Coastal & countryside travel.
Kampot, Kep & Sihanoukville – All accessible by bus or private transfer from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.
Battambang – Quieter town with a growing arts scene — an easy detour from Siem Reap.
👉 Book buses, minivans & transfers to coastal towns via 12Go →
Book ahead during peak season (Nov–Feb) or festivals.
12Go lets you see reviews, schedules, and reserve your spot in advance.
Riding tuk tuks in Cambodia is fun.
Secure your cheap flights to Cambodia now:
When is the best time to visit Cambodia.
I visited in March and experienced dry and sunny days, but I also experienced crowds at the major tourist attractions. I would still 100% recommend visiting in the dry season.
Here is a breakdown of different seasons in Cambodia:
Dry Season (Nov–March).
Best weather for sightseeing, especially temple visits. Expect clear skies and peak tourism.
Wet Season (May–Oct).
Hot and humid with daily showers, but fewer crowds, lush green landscapes, and dramatic skies.
Shoulder Months (April & October).
A great balance, with fewer tourists, decent weather, and better prices.
Major festival dates:
Khmer New Year (mid-April) – Major national holiday, lively but many places close.
Water Festival (Nov) – Boat races, street celebrations, especially big in Phnom Penh.
The iconic tree at Angkor Thom.
Visiting Cambodia Frequently asked questions.
Here are some commonly asked questions answered for you:
Do I need a visa for Cambodia?
Yes — most travellers need a visa. You can get one on arrival or apply online for an e-visa.
👉 Apply here →
Is Cambodia safe for solo travellers?
Generally, yes. Just use common sense. I avoided unlit areas at night, watched my belongings, and used Grab for transport.
Can I use USD in Cambodia?
Yes. US dollars are widely accepted. Prices are often listed in both USD and riel. Bring small bills.
Is Angkor Wat really worth it?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most iconic and mind-blowing places I’ve ever seen — go for sunrise if you can.
What should I wear to temples?
Cover your shoulders and knees. Light, breathable clothing works best as it gets very humid, and a scarf or sarong is handy.
Is tap water safe to drink?
No. Always stick to bottled or filtered water.
Can I visit Cambodia on a budget?
100%. Cambodia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. You can travel well for surprisingly little.
The faces of Bayon Temple.
Important tips for visiting Cambodia.
Here are few simple tips which can save you hassle, trouble, and plenty of spending money:
Carry small US dollars – Cambodia runs on USD for most things; bring $1s and $5s.
Use Grab for tuk tuks – no haggling, safer, and super convenient.
Avoid tap water – stick to bottled or filtered.
Respect the history – museums and memorials deserve quiet attention and sensitivity.
Don’t skip travel insurance – seriously, it’s worth it. Cambodia can be unpredictable.
👉 Compare trusted options here →Download offline maps – data drops happen. Google Maps offline saved me a few times.
Get a local SIM or eSIM – it makes everything easier on the go.
👉 Grab an eSIM for Cambodia here →
Street life in Siem Reap.
Is 5 days enough time for Cambodia?
Short answer? Yes… but it will definitely leave you wanting more.
Five days is just enough to get a powerful lasting impression of Cambodia… I know I did!
I ate like a king, rode one too many tuk tuks, and got a real feel for two very different cities — each with its own unique vibe.
But honestly… Cambodia has so much more to offer. Enough to fill weeks, even months of travel.
But if 5 days is all you’ve got? Go for it.
You’ll come back with stories, perspective, and probably a plan to return… Just like I did.
Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.