Discover the Charm of Southeast Asia: Best Places to
Visit in Cambodia
Lying between Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos, Cambodia is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia with many historical sights and colorful traditions. As the best countries to visit in Asia, Cambodia is sought out by everyone, whether you love history, beaches, or spiritual places. Some of the wonders here are world-famous temples and untouched islands that won’t be forgotten. Here you will find a detailed guide to the best places to visit in Cambodia, featuring all the most popular attractions.
Enchanting Escapes: Top 10 Things to See in Cambodia’s Heartland
1. Angkor Wat – The Heart of Cambodian Heritage

Traveling to Cambodia should always include a trip to Angkor Wat, which is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. Sitting close to Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is regarded as the world’s biggest religious building and a pride of Cambodia. The complex which used to be the capital of the Khmer Empire, amazes with its elaborate carvings, moats and spires that represent how advanced their civilization was. Besides being one of the best things to see in Cambodia, it takes visitors on a spiritual journey through time. A lot of people taking Cambodia holiday Package pick Angkor Wat as a must-see, since nearby temples and cultural sites fit perfectly into the trip.
Best Time to Visit:
November to March – Cool and dry weather, perfect for temple-hopping.
Major Attractions:
- Angkor Wat Temple
- Bayon Temple (known for its huge stone figures)
- Ta Prohm Temple (overgrown with trees)
- Preah Khan and Banteay Srei
2. Siem Reap – Gateway to Ancient Ruins and Modern Delights

Although many people visit Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat, the city itself has lots to offer. Thanks to its lively nightlife, active markets, and shows presenting Cambodian culture, Siem Reap connects its past with its present. If you’re looking beyond Siem Reap’s ancient temples, Siem Reap’s art, cuisine, and local traditions make it one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. No matter if you enjoy food or museums in Phnom Penh, the city always appeals to visitors.
Best Time to Visit:
December to February – offer nice weather for spending time outdoors and exploring markets.
Major Attractions:
- Pub Street
- Angkor National Museum
- Tonlé Sap Lake floating villages
- Apsara dance is what’s performed in traditional shows.
There’s no question that this place stands out in the best places to visit in Cambodia because of its blend of heritage and modern style.
3. Phnom Penh – Cambodia’s Capital with a Rich Past

The city of Phnom Penh, being the capital, lets you experience Cambodia’s royal traditions and sad past. Located at the point where the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Rivers meet, Phnom Penh is known for its French buildings, lively markets, and waterfront areas. It is the best places to go in Cambodia from its golden days through the tragic rule of the Khmer Rouge. If you enjoy history, visiting the city is one of the best things to visit in Cambodia because of its rich culture. In Phnom Penh, there are many hotels to choose from, no matter if you prefer luxury or are on a small budget.
Best Time to Visit:
November to February – Comfortable weather for city exploration.
Major Attractions:
- Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields
- Russian Market
- Sisowath Quay Riverfront
4. Sihanoukville – Beaches and Island Escapes

If what you desire are white sand beaches and turquoise waters, Sihanoukville is one of the best places to visit in Cambodia. It used to be a quiet fishing village, but now it gives visitors access to Cambodia’s best coastal islands. If you are into beaches, diving or catching sunsets, Sihanoukville will give you a great excuse to get away from the city. The tropical atmosphere and lovely hidden coves put it among Cambodia top attractions and favorite seaside destinations.
Best Time to Visit:
December to April – Dry season with calm seas and sunny skies.
Major Attractions:
- Ochheuteal and Otres Beaches
- Koh Rong Island
- Koh Rong Samloem Island
- Scuba diving and snorkeling sites
- Bioluminescent plankton viewing
5. Battambang – A Taste of Authentic Cambodia

Because it’s not as famous as other cities in Cambodia, Battambang has many beautiful old buildings, peaceful scenery, and original creativity. The town beside the river allows you to feel the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside and still visit city attractions. Those who want to get away from the crowds and live like a local should visit here in Cambodia. You can find some of the most special and best things to see in Cambodia, from art exhibits to fun bamboo trains, in Battambang.
Best Time to Visit:
November to March – Temperatures are cool with some dry weather and lush green fields
Major Attractions:
- Bamboo Train
- Phnom Sampeau & Killing Caves
- Wat Banan Temple
- Battambang Bat Caves
- Art galleries and colonial French architecture
6. Kampot and Kep – Colonial Charm and Coastal Calm

People who value calmness, nature’s beauty and old-world atmosphere often visit Kampot and Kep. Kampot attracts people with its pepper fields and the lovely sight of the sun setting on the river and Kep is popular for having quiet trails by the sea and excellent seafood. They represent the more peaceful, less known part of Cambodia and are usually considered among the unique Cambodia top attractions.
Best Time to Visit:
December to April – The dry weather makes it the best time for riverwalks and going to the beaches.
Major Attractions:
- Kampot River cruises
- Bokor National Park
- Pepper farms are a main feature in Kampot.
- Kep Crab Market
- Kep National Park hiking trails
7. Kratie – Home of the Elusive Irrawaddy Dolphins

Along the Mekong River is Kratie, which is well known for its tranquility. Rare Irrawaddy dolphins are commonly spotted in the calm water of the Lower Mekong. It gives you a chance to relax from busy cities, as you enjoy riverside views, see wooden houses from the past, and go biking on nearby islands. Anyone who loves nature would agree that Kratie is an best places to go in Cambodia wildlife and admire peaceful countryside.
Best Time to Visit
December to May – Water levels are lower and make dolphin spotting easier.
Major Attractions
- Irrawaddy Dolphin tours at Kampi Pool
- Wat Roka Kandal Temple
- French colonial buildings
- Koh Trong Island biking trail
- The sunset over the Mekong River
8. Ratanakiri – Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Those looking for a real taste of nature and local culture will find one of the best adventures in Ratanakiri, Cambodia. The province, which is found in the northeast’s remote regions, is home to many national parks, volcanic lakes, and minority people. An explorer’s dream, it is also the best places to visit in Cambodia for eco-friendly enjoyment and trekking. Natural beauty can be found all over Ratanakiri, which highlights Cambodia’s top attractions.
Best Time to Visit
November to February – Cooler temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities.
Major Attractions
- Yeak Laom Volcanic Lake
- Virachey National Park
- Cha Ong and Katieng Waterfalls
- Indigenous villages and homestays
- Gem mines and crater lakes
9. Mondulkiri – Elephants and Rolling Hills

If what you want is cool weather, amazing views, and time with gentle giants, Mondulkiri is the place to go. Because of its beautiful green hills, thick pine forests, and kind elephant sanctuaries, Mondulkiri is one of the best places to go in Cambodia for nature lovers. Many eco-travelers and people interested in connecting with local communities like it.
Best Time to Visit
November to March – Ideal for treks, elephant tours, and cooler weather.
Major Attractions
- Elephant Valley Project (ethical sanctuary)
- Bou Sra Waterfall
- Sen Monorom town
- Pine forests and coffee plantations
- Indigenous Bunong communities
10. Preah Vihear Temple – A Sacred Cliffside Wonder

The temple of Preah Vihear, which is located atop a 525-meter cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains, is one of Cambodia’s most remarkable yet underappreciated historical sites. The temple, made in honor of Hindu deity Shiva, gives guests a broad view that sights past Thailand’s borders. Because it’s far from civilization, it offers a quiet option to the lively Angkor complex. This is the best things to see in Cambodia for people’s history, and it is also a deeply spiritual main Cambodia top attractions.
Best Time to Visit
December to February – Dry season ensures safe travel to this remote site.
Major Attractions
- Preah Vihear Temple complex
- Views from the cliff that go on for miles
- Remote and scenic Dângrêk Mountains
- Nearby temples like Koh Ker
Frequently Asked Questions About Cambodia Destinations
1. What is the best time to visit Cambodia?
November to March is the best period to visit Cambodia because the climate is nice and cool and better for touring temples, exploring nature and going to the beach. This time of year attracts many tourists which means major sights such as Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh will be full of people.
2. Which are the best beach destinations in Cambodia?
Beach lovers usually enjoy Sihanoukville, Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem. You will find here white sand, clear waters, and lots of interesting fish—enjoy a snorkeling adventure or just kick back.
3. What are the best cities to visit in Cambodia?
The top cities and towns to include in your itinerary are:
- Siem Reap (for temples and culture)
- Phnom Penh (capital city and history)
- Battambang (colonial charm and countryside)
- Kampot and Kep (riverside views and seafood)
4. What are the must-try foods in Cambodia?
Cambodian dishes have strong and delicious flavors. Among the best things to eat are:
- Fish Amok – fish curry steamed and served with coconut milk
- Beef Lok Lak – beef that is marinated and served with a pepper-lime sauce
- Khmer Red Curry – mild curry with meat and veggie
- Prahok – fermented fish paste often served in Cambodia (intended for people who like adventurous foods).
5. What are the best places to visit in Cambodia for nature lovers?
People who like nature will especially enjoy seeing Ratanakiri for its forests, crater lakes, Mondulkiri for the sanctuaries for elephants, and Virachey National Park for hiking. Spotting the rare Irrawaddy dolphin isn’t something you can do everywhere, but in Kratie it is possible.