Cambodia has countless places to explore and things to do that will keep your itinerary full. From the historical significance of the Royal Palace of Phnom Penh to the cultural implications of Angkor Wat, you will witness various shades of this country in its symbolic monuments. However, it offers much more than that. Marvellous beaches, gorgeous mountains, and floating villages will show the vast natural landscape of Cambodia. 

There are many places of interest and things to do in Cambodia. It is a land of spectacular temples, great art, pristine beaches, and delicious food. There are endless activities and sightseeing places in Cambodia that will keep you engaged throughout your trip. You just need to pack your bags and fly to this beautiful country that has a lot to offer to every kind of traveller. Here are the top things to do in Cambodia to have a great vacation: 

Top Things to Do in Cambodia 

• Visit Angkor Wat for a Spiritual Experience 

• Admire the Beauty of Phnom Penh Palace 

• Relax on Cambodian beaches 

• Explore Siem Reap 

• Go hiking in the Cardamom Mountains. 

• See the Floating Villages 

• Try Cambodia’s Authentic Cuisines

Visit Angkor Wat for a Spiritual Experience 

Angkor Wat is one of the best places to go in Cambodia. The ancient temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is frequented by countless tourists from across the world. It is a symbol of Cambodian identity. The largest temple in the world was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. You can visit here in the morning hours when the sun pours its golden glory on this architectural marvel. Different parts of the temple are illuminated, which allows you to take some beautiful pictures. Make sure to hire a tour guide to understand the historical and cultural significance of this Cambodian monument. 

Location:

Siem Reap 

Nearby Attractions:

To Prohm and Banteay Srei 

Admire the Beauty of Phnom Penh Palace 

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh is a top attraction in Cambodia. It was built in 1860 and has witnessed many rulers over the centuries. You must go to this place to explore the grandeur of this architectural marvel. It is decorated with intricate designs and has towering spires. The palace showcases the beauty of Khmer architecture in all its glory. It is surrounded by a manicured garden with vibrant flowers that give a mesmerising contrast to the structure. You can spend half a day roaming around the palace and admiring its fine details. If you happen to visit the Royal Palace on special occasions, you can get a glimpse of Cambodian culture in various events and ceremonies. So, there is a strong reason why it is counted among the best tourist places in Cambodia. 

Location:

Phnom Penh 

Best Time to Visit:

During the Khmer New Year 

Nearby Attractions:

Silver Pagoda, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the National Museum 

Relax on Cambodian Beaches 

If you are a beach person, Cambodia is the best place to visit for you. It has many beaches where you can spend hours watching waves hitting the shore. Kep, Koh Rong, and Ream are some popular beaches with panoramic views all around. There are plenty of things to do on these beaches in Cambodia. You can get a massage and soak in vitamin D, lying back at the beach shack. Alternatively, try water activities, like snorkelling and boating, for an adrenaline rush. Cambodian beaches have many waterfront restaurants where you can try delicious food. Some beaches have a laid-back vibe, whereas others are known for vibrant nightlife. So, there are countless ways to have an amazing beach vacation in the country. 

Best Beaches in Cambodia:

Sok San Beach, Kep Beach, and Saracen Bay Beach 

Food to Try at Beachfront Restaurants:

Kuy Teav, Khmer Curry, and Bay Sach Chruk. 

Explore Siem Reap on a Bike 

You can discover various neighbourhoods of the second-largest city of Cambodia on a bike. It is so much fun to explore the vibrant place that beautifully portrays the modern lifestyle of Cambodia. Siem Reap has many ancient temples, art trails, and community-run shops. It reflects the city’s way of bringing together the past and the present. So, this is definitely one of the best places to see in Cambodia. 

You can find rare gems in shops that sell handcrafted goods. There are many fair-trade cafés in the city. Spend your evenings having a cup of coffee with your loved ones in these cosy cafes. It is the best way to contribute to the local economy and get an experience of a lifetime. 

Top Attractions:

Bayon Temple, Pub Street, and Banteay Srei 

Best Cafés in Siem Reap:

Brother Bong Café, The Little Red Fox Espresso Café, and Sister Srey Café 

Go hiking in the Cardamom Mountains

Hiking to the Cardamom Mountains is one of the adventurous things to do in Cambodia. It is a serene place surrounded by nature’s beauty. This rainforest region in Cambodia is home to diverse wildlife. You can spot many rare bird species and animals in this remote forest. There are guided jungle treks organised for tourists to traverse the wilderness. It is a nature’s playground with plenty of waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife habitats. If you want to stay a night in the middle of nature in the Cardamom Mountains, there are some eco-resorts that offer comfortable stays. This rainforest is a popular place of interest in Cambodia for travellers like you. 

Pro Tips:

Follow eco-conscious travel rules, like following guided routes and not throwing waste, to preserve nature. 

Best Time to Visit:

November to April 

See the Floating Villages

The floating villages of the Tonle Sap Lake are a top Cambodian attraction. People from all around the world visit here to see the uniqueness of these villages. It is fascinating to see the local community live their lives on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake. They have learnt to beautifully co-exist with nature. The dramatic seasonal changes bring out different sides of the floating village life. There are schools, shops, and stilt houses that thrive on water. When you visit here, always respect the local community and lifestyle. It is important to note that this is a popular tourist spot in Cambodia, so you may find it a bit crowded in the wet season. 

Pro Tip:

Follow eco-conscious rules and understand cultural sensitivity. 

Best Time to Visit:

June to October 

Try Cambodia’s Authentic Cuisines

Cambodia has delicious delicacies with unique flavours. Trying different cuisines is one of the best things to do in Cambodia. Authentic dishes, such as fish amok and lok lak, are must-tries. There are many street-food options as well if you like tasty snacks in between your exploration journey. Ya hon, num pang pate, and num banh chok are some mouthwatering foods to taste on your trip. You can also join food tours to eat your heart out. 

Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, there are numerous things to do in Cambodia for a fulfilling vacation. For an outdoor and beach vacation, the dry season is the best. If you want to enjoy lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, the wet season is ideal for you. You will also encounter fewer crowds in this season. The best Cambodia tour packages cover popular places in the country. 

FAQs 

Q1. Can you visit Angkor Wat during sunrise and sunset? 

Yes, you can visit Angkor Wat during both sunrise and sunset, though sunrise tends to attract large crowds. If you prefer a quieter experience, try watching the sunset at lesser-known temples like Phnom Bakheng or Sra Srang. The golden light on the ruins during these times is breathtaking. 

Q2. Is it safe to ride a tuk-tuk in Cambodia? 

Tuk-tuks are a popular and safe way to get around in Cambodia, especially in cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. However, it's recommended to negotiate the fare in advance or use a ride-hailing app like PassApp to avoid being overcharged. Always ensure your driver is wearing a helmet and driving safely. 

Q3. Are there any unusual wildlife experiences? 

Cambodia is home to diverse wildlife, especially in areas like the Cardamom Mountains, which offer opportunities for eco-tours. Here, you may spot rare animals such as sun bears, clouded leopards, and even wild elephants. The Tonle Sap lake also has rich birdlife, including endangered species like the giant ibis. 

Q4. What’s the most underrated region in Cambodia? 

Kampot and Kep are two of Cambodia’s most underrated regions. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, Kampot offers beautiful riverside views, pepper plantations, and French colonial architecture. Nearby Kep, famous for its seafood (especially crab), is a peaceful coastal retreat with pristine beaches and national parks. 

Q5. What's a unique souvenir to buy? 

Cambodia is known for its beautiful silk products, so a handwoven silk scarf or piece of fabric makes for a great souvenir. Additionally, you can find intricate wooden carvings, such as Buddha statues and other local artefacts, which make unique and meaningful keepsakes to remember your trip.