A 7-day “Classic Highlights” itinerary for Cambodia typically focuses on the two most iconic cities: Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital with a complex modern history, and Siem Reap, the gateway to the magnificent Angkor temple complex.
Focus: UNESCO World Heritage temples, history, culture, and local life.
Highlights
- Siem Reap & Angkor Wat: Sunrise at Angkor Wat, exploring the faces of Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, and the jungle-covered Ta Prohm temple.
- Tonle Sap Lake: A boat trip to see Kampong Phluk, a floating village with houses on stilts.
- Phnom Penh: Visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, Wat Phnom, and learning about the Khmer Rouge history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and Killing Fields.
- Cultural Experiences: Exploring local markets like the Central Market (Phsar Thmey), experiencing Khmer cuisine, and potentially visiting a silk weaving village
- Top Sites: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom (Bayon Temple), Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Tonle Sap lake, and Phnom Penh.
Cambodia: Classic Highlights 7 Days 6 Nights Plan
Afternoon: Start at the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, where the floor is made of over 5,000 silver tiles.
Evening: Take a stroll along the Sisowath Quay (riverside promenade). You can also enjoy a sunset cruise on the Mekong River.
Morning: Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields. These sites are heavy but essential for understanding Cambodia's resilient spirit.
Afternoon: Visit the National Museum of Cambodia to see ancient Khmer art, or shop for souvenirs at the Art Deco-style Central Market.
Morning/Afternoon: You can take a 45-minute flight or a ~6-hour scenic drive/bus. If driving, consider stopping at Skun (famous for fried spiders) or the ancient bridge at Kampong Kdei.
Evening: Arrive in Siem Reap and head to Pub Street or the Angkor Night Market for dinner and local crafts.
Sunrise: Witness the legendary sunrise over Angkor Wat.
Mid-day: Explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom, including the Bayon Temple (famous for its 216 giant stone faces) and the Terrace of the Elephants.
Afternoon: Visit Ta Prohm, the "Tomb Raider" temple, where giant tree roots are intertwined with the ruins.
Morning: Drive to Banteay Srei, known as the "Citadel of Women," famous for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.
Afternoon: Head to Tonle Sap Lake to see the Kampong Phluk floating village, where houses are built on high stilts.
Option A (Nature): Visit Phnom Kulen National Park to see the "River of a Thousand Lingas" and a beautiful waterfall.
Option B (Art): Visit Les Artisans d'Angkor to see traditional silk and stone carving.
Evening: Catch a performance by the Phare Cambodian Circus, which tells local stories through incredible acrobatics.
Morning: Have a slow breakfast and visit the Old Market (Psar Chas) for local spices and textiles.
Afternoon: Transfer to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport for your flight home.
- Accommodation: 6 nights in 3-star or 4-star hotels, usually on a twin/double sharing basis.
- Guides: English-speaking local guides throughout the tour.
- Transport: Private, air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers and airport pick-ups/drop-offs.
- Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel, plus selected lunches and dinners.
- Entrance Fees: Sightseeing fees for landmarks listed in the itinerary (Angkor Wat, Royal Palace, Killing Fields).
- Experiences: Boat trips, such as to the Kampong Phluk floating village on Tonle Sap Lake.
- International Flights: Flights to and from Cambodia.
- Visa Fees: Cambodia visa fees (visa-on-arrival is available).
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory travel insurance is usually not included.
- Meals: Dinners and lunches not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal Expenses: Tips for guides/drivers, laundry, and beverages.
Siem Reap: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple), and Tonlé Sap Lake.
Phnom Penh: Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and Toul Sleng Genocide Museum
The best time to visit Cambodia is during the cool and dry season, which runs from November to March. It is recommended to avoid the hot season (March-May) and rainy season (June-October) for better sightseeing.
Yes, most tourists need a visa. The most recommended method is to apply for a Cambodia eVisa online before your trip.
Most packages include 6 nights’ accommodation, private transport with an air-conditioned vehicle, airport transfers, a private guide, entry fees to attractions, and often, boat trips on Tonlé Sap Lake or the Mekong.
While packages cover major costs, you should prepare for personal expenses. A budget traveler might spend around $450-$550
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, but ensure you have modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temple visits (Angkor Wat, Royal Palace). Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are essential.
Yes, many 7-day packages offer flexible, private itineraries that are suitable for family travel
Yes, Cambodia is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always recommended to stay with your tour group and guide when in crowded areas and at night.
