Whatever you are looking for, whether it be a history buff, beach bum, or soul-searching wanderer, Cambodia offers an experience you will never forget. Let me outline the best places to visit in Cambodia that deserve to make your 2025 travel list.
Picture a place where ancient temples whisper the stories of lost empires, turquoise islands remain pristine, and smiles greet you around every corner. That is Cambodia. And while it may be overlooked by its neighbors, this Southeast Asian gem has so much more to offer than simply Angkor Wat. It is full of contradictions – raw and refined, ancient and emerging.
📍1. Siem Reap – Gateway to the Angkor Empire
Known For: Temples, cultural performances, night markets
Special Attractions:
Angkor Wat – UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest religious monument
Bayon Temple – The smiling faces of Jayavarman VII
Angkor Night Market – Shop, sip, and soak in the atmosphere
Best Time to Visit: November to March (dry season)
Currency Accepted: Cambodian Riel (KHR), but USD is widely used
Why Go?
Siem Reap isn’t just about temples. It’s a cultural hub where Apsara dance shows meet local street food, and travelers from all walks come together. It’s where sunrises over Angkor Wat awaken your sense of wonder.
🏖️2. Koh Rong – Paradise Found
Known For: Pristine beaches, laid-back vibes, snorkeling
Special Attractions:
Long Set Beach – Soft sand and turquoise waters
Bioluminescent Plankton – Night swims that glow
Zipline & Jungle Treks – For the adventurous souls
Best Time to Visit: December to May
Currency: Cambodian Riel & USD
Why Go?
Koh Rong is the Maldives of Cambodia. With minimal development and no cars, it’s the escape you didn’t know you needed.
🏛️3. Phnom Penh – The Soul of Cambodia
Known For: History, architecture, and riverfront cafes
Special Attractions:
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda – Opulence and sacred artifacts
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum & Killing Fields – A sobering look into Cambodia’s past
Riverside Promenade – Sunset views, local food, and chilled beer
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Currency: Riel & USD
Why Go?
Phnom Penh is chaotic, charming, and deeply moving. It invites you to understand the resilience of the Khmer people, while offering modern comforts.
⛰️4. Kampot – The Hidden Gem
Known For: Pepper plantations, colonial charm, riverside serenity
Special Attractions:
Bokor National Park – Ghost towns and misty mountains
Kampot Pepper Farms – World-famous seasoning straight from the source
Kayaking on the Preaek Tuek Chhu River
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Currency: Riel & USD
Why Go?
Kampot’s slow pace is its magic. Picture French villas, sunset boat rides, and flavorful food — it’s Cambodia without the crowds.
🌿5. Battambang – Where Art Meets Heritage
Known For: Creative scene, countryside charm, temples
Special Attractions:
Bamboo Train – Quirky and exhilarating
Phnom Sampeau – Caves, temples, and sunset views
Local Art Galleries & Cafés – Bohemian vibes
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Currency: Riel & USD
Why Go?
Battambang offers rural authenticity. It’s Cambodia in slow motion, filled with storytelling walls and warm smiles.
🏖️6. Kep – The Quiet Coastal Retreat
Known For: Crab market, sea breeze, colonial ruins
Special Attractions:
Kep National Park – Short hikes with long views
Kep Crab Market – Fresh seafood right from the sea
Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay) – A short boat trip to tranquility
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Currency: Riel & USD
Why Go?
Kep is all about unplugging. Eat crab, watch sunsets, and let the sea lull you into peace.
📊 Quick Comparison Table
| Destination | Known For | Special Attractions | Best Time to Visit | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siem Reap | Temples & culture | Angkor Wat, Bayon, Night Market | Nov–Mar | Historical & buzzing |
| Koh Rong | Beaches & marine life | Bioluminescent plankton, Zipline | Dec–May | Remote paradise |
| Phnom Penh | History & city life | Royal Palace, Museums | Nov–Mar | Urban & introspective |
| Kampot | Colonial charm & nature | Pepper farms, Bokor Park | Oct–Apr | Peaceful & scenic |
| Battambang | Art & countryside | Bamboo train, local galleries | Nov–Feb | Creative & local |
| Kep | Quiet coast | Crab market, Rabbit Island | Nov–Apr | Coastal & calm |
🛌 Where to Stay in Cambodia
Siem Reap: Jaya House River Park, Onederz Hostel
Koh Rong: The Royal Sands, Treehouse Bungalows
Phnom Penh: Pavilion Hotel, Mad Monkey Hostel
Kampot: Kampot River Residence, The Columns
Battambang: Bambu Hotel, Classy Hotel
Kep: Veranda Natural Resort, Samanea Beach Resort
🎒 Other Things to Do in Cambodia
Visit floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake
Learn to cook Khmer cuisine
Experience a traditional Apsara dance
Go temple hopping beyond Angkor (like Banteay Srei & Ta Prohm)
Support local crafts and NGOs
✅ Final Verdict
Cambodia is not just an add-on to a trip to Thailand or Vietnam. It is a feast for the senses – wealthy, raw, and rewarding. From sacred temples and spiritual edifices to quiet island pockets, Cambodia opens its arms wide and hands out stories that stick.
So if you’re thinking of the best places to visit in Cambodia, this checklist is your cue to get planning.
📚 Source Transparency
⚠️ Disclaimer
Travel conditions may vary due to seasonal weather and ongoing local developments. Always check official tourism boards and embassy guidelines before visiting.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Do I need a visa to enter Cambodia?
Yes, most travelers require a tourist visa. It can be obtained online or on arrival.
Q2. Is Cambodia safe for solo travelers?
Yes, especially in tourist areas. Like anywhere, stay aware and follow local advice.
Q3. Can I use USD in Cambodia?
Absolutely. It’s accepted almost everywhere, alongside the Cambodian Riel.
Q4. What language is spoken in Cambodia?
Khmer is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
Q5. Is tipping expected in Cambodia?
Not mandatory, but appreciated — especially in hotels and restaurants.
