Cambodia Itinerary: Best Route, Travel Tips & Highlights

Cambodia is a country full of beauty and contrasts. On a round trip, the country reveals all its facets: lush green landscapes, ancient temples, vibrant cities, and a moving history.

Often Cambodia stands in the shadow of its famous neighbor Thailand – unjustly so, in our opinion.
But perhaps this very fact makes Cambodia such a special destination in Southeast Asia: less touristy, yet all the more authentic and full of warm encounters.
Within just a few hours, we were captivated by the country’s diversity.

From the majestic temples of Angkor Wat and the bustling capital Phnom Penh to the famous pepper farms in the south – Cambodia offers unforgettable highlights for every traveler.

In this post, we’ll take you along on our two-week Cambodia itinerary, sharing our route, practical travel tips, and all the special moments that turned this journey into an unforgettable adventure.

GETTING AROUND DURING A CAMBODIA ROUND TRIP

Maybe you’re like us: one of the first steps when planning a round trip is checking how far the different stops are apart and which means of transport work best.
Luckily, in Cambodia this was pretty straightforward.

Since we were traveling with our little daughter, who was still a baby at the time, long bus rides were not an option for us.
That’s why we chose to fly the route from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh – comfortable and time-saving.
For the other longer distances, we hired private drivers.
Honestly, we probably would have done the same even without a baby, simply because it was so relaxed and stress-free.
We booked most of the rides either directly through our accommodations (usually via booking.com) or easily with 12GoAsia, a platform we can highly recommend for traveling around Southeast Asia.

Within the cities, we stayed flexible: sometimes with a scooter we rented locally, and other times using the Grab App or PassApp, the Asian equivalents of Uber.
The big advantage of these apps: fixed prices, no haggling, no uncertainty about payments – everything is transparent and easy through the app.

You can find more about our experiences traveling with a baby in Cambodia in our separate post: Traveling Cambodia with a Baby – Tips, Useful Information & Our Experiences.
‍And for all the details about renting a scooter, check out this post: Renting a Scooter in Cambodia – Helpful Tips & Information.

ACCOMMODATION BOOKINGS BEFORE YOUR TRIP

A round trip is full of wonderful and unforgettable moments, but it can also be exhausting.
To save time and nerves along the way, it’s worth booking at least part – or even all – of your accommodations in advance.
This way, you ensure that you’ll find places that truly suit you and avoid ending up with overpriced or unsuitable options.

Our tip: Choose hotels with free cancellation, so you can stay flexible.
We booked our accommodations via booking.com and had very good experiences with it.

OUR ROUND TRIP ITINERARY

Cambodia was the fourth country on our several-month parental leave journey through Southeast Asia.
We spent two weeks there. In our opinion, that’s enough time to explore the main sights and highlights at a relaxed pace while also getting a feel for the country and its people.
On site, however, we quickly realized that Cambodia has much more to offer.
An additional week could easily have been filled with even more exciting activities.

Curious which other countries we visited on our trip and what special experiences we had there? Then feel free to read more and get inspired:

• ‍Discover Vietnam‍
• Experience Malaysia‍
• Explore Indonesia‍
• Discover Thailand

1. SIEM REAP

Our Accommodation: The Elephant
Recommended Stay: 3 to 7 days

Most Cambodia round trips start in Siem Reap, the gateway to the famous Angkor temples.

Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport, opened in 2023, has direct flights from cities such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Dubai.
The airport is about 40 minutes from the city center. It’s best to arrange your transfer in advance.
We booked a private driver through our hotel, which was reliable and fairly priced

Our hotel turned out to be a real gem. The charming colonial-style building had everything for a great stay: a refreshing pool, spacious rooms, an elevator, tasty breakfast and, above all, incredibly welcoming staff.
Another big plus was the location. Not directly in the bustle of Pub Street, but in a quiet area and still central enough to be in the middle of it all within minutes.
Nearby we found plenty of cozy cafés, restaurants, small shops and even a good laundry.
We felt completely at home and can highly recommend The Elephant

You should plan at least three full days in Siem Reap.
This gives you enough time to visit the main Angkor temples, see the highlights in the city center and take a day trip to the surrounding area.
If you also want to explore lesser-known temples within Angkor or remote sites around Siem Reap, four to five days are better.

During our stay we rented a scooter. Alternatively, you can easily get around with Grab or PassApp.

HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF SIGHTS & ACTIVITIES

IN THE CENTER OF SIEM REAP

WAT DAMNAK

Wat Damnak is one of the largest temple complexes in the city and radiates a peaceful atmosphere.
Among tall trees and golden stupas, you will meet monks in their orange robes.
It’s a lovely place to escape the hustle and experience the spiritual side of the country.

WAT BO

Wat Bo is one of the oldest pagodas in the city and also offers a small oasis of peace away from the bustle. It is definitely worth a short visit.

PREAH ANG CHEK / PREAH ANG CHORM SHRINES

One of the holiest sites in the city and therefore a significant place for many worshippers.

The shrines are located in the well-kept, almost majestic Royal Independence Gardens. Anyone entering must do so barefoot.
In this peaceful setting, you can watch devotees praying and placing offerings such as flowers, coconuts and incense sticks.
We were impressed by how many offerings were already there in the morning.

OLD MARKET & NIGHT MARKET

The Old Market (Psar Chaa) is the oldest market in Siem Reap and, in our opinion, the perfect introduction before exploring the much larger markets in Phnom Penh.
In the narrow alleys you’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, fragrant spices, clothes, household goods and small souvenirs.
The busiest time is in the morning when locals do their daily shopping, while in the evening the aisles fill mostly with tourists. If you plan to buy something, don’t forget to bargain.

Right across the river you’ll find the Night Market. In the evening the area turns into a sea of lights, with street food stalls, small shops and more.
The atmosphere is lively, colorful and typically Asian.

RIVERSIDE WALK

If you feel like stretching your legs before or after dinner, a walk along the riverside is a perfect choice.
Especially at sunset and in the evening hours, you’ll find many young Cambodians gathering here.
It’s a great spot to observe local life and experience authentic impressions of Siem Reap beyond the tourist attractions.

PUB STREET SIEM REAP

Pub Street is the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife.
Colorful bars, lively clubs, and countless street food stalls turn the night into day.
Even if you’re not in the mood to party, it’s still worth a visit: after dark, the street lights up with thousands of lanterns and neon signs while music fills the air from every direction.

What we found rather shocking, however, were the many children begging tourists for money late into the night.
Families from poor rural areas often send them to the city in the hope of earning some income.

As difficult as it may be, please don’t give money to the children.
It might feel natural to hand over a few dollars, but this keeps them trapped in a cycle of begging and prevents many from going to school.
If you really want to help, give directly to adults on the street instead — this way you support families without keeping children away from education.
Even better, consider donating to local organizations that provide access to schooling and create real opportunities for a brighter future.

MADE IN CAMBODIA MARKET

As the name suggests, this market features only products that are genuinely made in Cambodia — from jewelry and clothing to handicrafts and local specialties.
Many stalls are run by small businesses or social projects, which means your purchase directly supports the local community.
Prices are slightly higher compared to other markets, but in return, you receive fair quality and authentic handmade goods.
‍Our tip: Visit in the late afternoon or evening when the atmosphere comes alive with music and delicious street food, making your shopping experience even more enjoyable.

FAIR TRADE VILLAGE

Fair Trade Village is a wonderful alternative to the well-known Made in Cambodia Market.
Local artists and craftsmen showcase and sell their creations, including jewelry, textiles, ceramics and woodcarvings.
Everything is handmade, slightly more expensive but fairly traded.
What we especially enjoyed is that at some stations you can watch the artisans working right on site.
If you are looking for an original and meaningful souvenir from Siem Reap, this is the perfect place to find it.

AROUND SIEM REAP

LOTUS SILK FARM

We stopped by the Lotus Silk Farm spontaneously and were lucky enough to get a private tour after only a short wait.
The farm was founded by a Frenchman and is now a Cambodian social enterprise that produces sustainable textiles from lotus fibers.
Everything is made without chemicals or harmful energy sources, while also creating new jobs for women from the local community.

We were welcomed with a cup of lotus flower tea, a lovely introduction before learning more about the production process and the special meaning of lotus fiber in Cambodian culture.

For details about entrance fees and opening hours, you can check the official website of the Lotus Silk Farm.

MUSEUMS IN SIEM REAP

• LANDMINE MUSEUM
  The Landmine Museum is a moving exhibition that sheds light on Cambodia’s landmine problem.
  Founded by Aki Ra, a former child soldier, it shares personal stories and highlights the devastating impact landmines still have on the local population today.
• APOPO HUMANITARIAN DEMINING
  The APOPO Humanitarian Demining Center offers a truly unique experience.
  Here you can meet the famous mine-detection rats, learn more about their training and watch a live demonstration of how they detect deadly landmines.
• WAR MUSEUM & WAR REMNANT MUSEUM
  At the War Museum, often also referred to as the War Remnant Museum, you dive into Cambodia’s more recent history.
  The site displays tanks, weapons and other remnants from the wars that have shaped the country.

TOURS AROUND SIEM REAP

Rent a scooter and head out of the city to discover the authentic side of Cambodia.
Along the way you’ll pass small villages, traditional Khmer houses and vast rice fields.
With a bit of luck you might even spot water buffalo grazing.
It’s a relaxed and rewarding way to experience local life in the Cambodian countryside.

ANGKOR WAT & THE TEMPLES OF ANGKOR

Cambodia’s most famous landmark is without a doubt Angkor Wat.
The temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-renowned and so significant that it even appears on the national flag.
What many visitors don’t realize before their trip is that Angkor Wat is only one — albeit the largest and most famous — temple within the vast Angkor Archaeological Park.

In total, Angkor is home to more than 1,000 temples, the impressive remains of the mighty Khmer Empire, which ruled large parts of Southeast Asia between the 9th and 15th centuries. Angkor Wat itself was built in the 12th century under King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu.
Later, as Buddhism spread throughout the Khmer Empire, it was transformed into a Buddhist sanctuary, which it remains to this day.

From the 15th century onward, however, the region gradually lost its importance due to power struggles, invasions by neighboring kingdoms and ecological challenges.
The temples slowly fell into decline and were forgotten until explorers rediscovered them in the 19th century.

Today, the temples still lie hidden in the jungle and form one of the largest religious sites in the world.

Every year, millions of travelers visit Angkor to experience the magic of this extraordinary place.
Of course, we wanted to see the world’s largest temple for ourselves.
And what better way to start the day than by watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat?
We set off in the dark on our scooter for the nine-kilometer ride to the site.
Parking directly in front of the temple is not possible, so you should plan enough time for the walk from the parking area, which takes around 20 to 30 minutes.

The sunrise at Angkor Wat is without question one of Cambodia’s most unforgettable experiences.
Unsurprisingly, large crowds gather in the morning in front of or inside the temple complex, all hoping for the perfect weather conditions.
The spectacle is especially impressive at the end of March and the end of September, when during the so-called “Angkor Wat Equinox” the sun rises directly above the central tower. Naturally, these dates attract even more visitors to Siem Reap eager to witness this rare natural phenomenon.

Once the sun has risen, the real exploration of the vast temple complex begins.
Another advantage of arriving early is the more pleasant temperature.
As the day goes on, the sun becomes very intense and since there are only a few shady spots within the complex, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is the most comfortable option.

We explored both Angkor Wat itself and the surrounding area on our own, partly on foot and partly by scooter.
However, if you want to learn more about the fascinating history, there are several options:

• Book a guide or a guided tour online in advance (for example: Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour with Guide).
• Hire an official guide directly at the entrance of Angkor Wat (prices are usually fixed and rarely negotiable).
• Let a tuk-tuk driver take you through the complex while also acting as a guide. This is a very relaxed option since you don’t have to drive between the temples yourself.

You can find a recommended tour here: Angkor Wat Tour.

After finally managing to tear ourselves away from Angkor Wat, we continued on to explore several more temples in the Angkor area.

• BAYON – THE “TEMPLE OF FACES”
  Particularly impressive here are the more than 200 smiling stone faces.
  It’s wonderful to walk or ride all around the temple. We were also greeted by a troop of curious macaques that seem to live here.
• TA PROHM – THE “TOMB RAIDER TEMPLE”
  For us, one of the most magical places in Angkor. Giant tree roots embrace the ancient walls, giving the temple a mysterious, almost enchanted atmosphere.
  It owes its nickname to the movie Tomb Raider, which was partly filmed here.
  Today, Ta Prohm is especially well known through social media and is one of the most popular photo spots in the region.
• PREAH KHAN
  A spacious, partly overgrown complex with many hidden corridors – ideal for exploring a little off the main tourist paths.
• PRE RUP
  Especially beautiful at sunset, as it offers a stunning view over the surrounding landscape.

While riding along the very well-developed roads, we passed countless smaller temples and ruins.
We could have easily spent hours more exploring the dreamlike scenery.
Good to know: outside of Angkor Wat, visitors spread out much more evenly.
While you are almost always surrounded by crowds at the main temple, we sometimes found ourselves completely alone in some of the other complexes.

Plan at least one, ideally two days, to fully experience the Angkor area.

TICKETS & IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT

• It’s best to purchase your tickets online through the official website (Angkor Tickets) shortly after your arrival in Siem Reap.
  There are tickets available for 1, 3 or 7 days. For most visitors, the 3-day pass is the ideal choice.
• Always keep your ticket handy, as it will be checked regularly.
• Dress code: The temples of Angkor are sacred sites. Please make sure your shoulders and knees are covered.

2. PHNOM PENH

Our Accommodation: Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort
Recommended Stay: 2 to 4 Days

The next destination of our trip, which we reached by plane, was Phnom Penh, the rapidly growing capital of Cambodia.
Already on the way from the airport to the hotel, we noticed that Phnom Penh is far ahead of many parts of the country – even if the city initially appeared somewhat chaotic to us.

In recent years, numerous modern skyscrapers have been built, giving Phnom Penh a new skyline.
In addition, there are elegant hotels, vegan restaurants, trendy cafés, well-maintained parks, and stylish shops.
Modern shopping malls, international fast-food chains, and expensive cars on the streets also reflect how strongly the city is influenced by foreign investments.
Everywhere, new residential and business districts are emerging, giving Phnom Penh a completely new face.

The urban middle class is clearly growing, while poverty is still very visible in many areas.
Unfortunately, Phnom Penh is also associated with its still questionable reputation for sex tourism and child abuse.
These dark sides ensure that, despite all its modernization, the city left us with rather mixed impressions.

We stayed at the Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort.
The highlight of this centrally located hotel is the stunning infinity rooftop pool.
From up here, you can enjoy a fantastic view over the city.
Just below, you’ll find the in-house restaurant with bar, where you can start your day with a delicious breakfast and panoramic views, or end the evening with a cocktail while watching the sunset over Phnom Penh.

Getting around the city: Phnom Penh is not really pedestrian-friendly.
However, since we were already used to it after spending several months in Southeast Asia, it didn’t bother us too much anymore and we still covered quite a few distances on foot – especially in the morning or evening when it wasn’t quite as hot.

For longer distances, we usually took tuk-tuks, which can easily be booked at fixed prices through PassApp or Grab.

MAIN SIGHTS AND THINGS TO DO IN PHNOM PENH

ROYAL PALACE & SILVER PAGODA

The Royal Palace is the most famous attraction in Phnom Penh.
With its golden roofs and ornate decorations, it looks truly impressive. Parts of the palace are open to visitors, including the grand throne hall and the well-maintained gardens.

Right next to it is the Silver Pagoda, which owes its name to more than 5,000 silver tiles covering the floor.
Even though many of them are now protected with carpets, the pagoda is still worth a visit.
Inside, you will find valuable Buddha statues, such as the Emerald Buddha made of crystal and a gold statue adorned with numerous diamonds.

You can find the current opening hours and entrance fees on Google.
Good to know: make sure to follow the dress code, as uncovered shoulders or knees may lead to being denied entry at the gate.

TUOL SLENG GENOCIDE MUSEUM (S-21 PRISON)

A visit to this museum is not for the faint-hearted.
Originally, this place was a school, but in the 1970s the Khmer Rouge transformed it into a torture prison known as S-21.
Today, the site serves as the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, preserving the memory of the victims and representing an important part of Cambodia’s history.

As soon as you enter, you feel an oppressive silence.
Classrooms were turned into cramped cells, where bare metal beds still remain.
On the walls hang old photographs that tell stories almost impossible to put into words.
The most moving exhibits are the haunting portraits of the prisoners.

An audio guide (highly recommended) takes you through the rooms and provides in-depth information that you might not fully understand without explanations.
The current opening hours, ticket prices, and the cost of the audio guide can be found on the official website of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.

WAT PHNOM

Wat Phnom is one of the most famous temples in Phnom Penh.
This Buddhist temple stands on a small, man-made hill right in the city center.
At around 27 meters high, it is the only elevation in Cambodia’s otherwise flat capital.

The wide staircases are decorated with lion and naga statues.
At the top, you will find a peaceful temple complex with beautifully painted walls, a gilded shrine, and many small details to discover.

Around the temple, there is a small park that is perfect for a short break.
Here you will see many locals enjoying their free time, while children play on the large playground nearby.

CENTRAL MARKET (PHSAR THMEI)

The Central Market, called "Phsar Thmei" in Khmer, is the largest market in Phnom Penh.
From the outside, the large yellow art-deco style dome immediately stands out, built in the 1930s along with the huge market hall.

Inside and outside, you will find a colorful mix: jewelry stalls, clothes, shoes, bags, suitcases, and souvenirs, as well as electronics, flowers, and food.

What we found particularly interesting is that the market is not only visited by tourists.
Many locals come here for their daily shopping, to get a quick haircut, or to enjoy a manicure or pedicure.
This is exactly what makes the Central Market so authentic: it is an integral part of everyday Cambodian life.

We are big fans of the markets in Phnom Penh, and the Central Market is definitely one you should not miss.

RUSSIAN MARKET (PHSAR TUOL TOM POUNG)

The Russian Market is another large market in Phnom Penh.
From the outside, it looks rather unremarkable, but inside it opens up into a real labyrinth.
In the narrow alleys, you can find almost everything: clothes, shoes, bags, fabrics, souvenirs, as well as electronics, household goods, and even motorcycle spare parts.

While browsing, we noticed some clothing items with H&M labels.
These are probably surplus stock or B-grade items that are resold here at low prices.
If you plan to buy something, don’t forget to bargain.

The Russian Market is also very popular for its large food section. Numerous stalls line up here, where locals come to eat and enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes.

PHNOM PENH NIGHT MARKET

The Phnom Penh Night Market is located right on the riverfront and is a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists.
In the evening, when the temperatures drop, the market comes to life: between colorful lights and music, you will find stalls selling clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and household goods. Local services like haircuts, manicures, and pedicures are also offered here.

There are also several street food stalls. Unlike what you might know from Thailand, there are no chairs or tables.
Instead, large mats are laid out in the middle of the food stalls, where people sit together and enjoy their meals – creating a very social and relaxed atmosphere.

The market is relatively small and not as big as the Central Market or the Russian Market.
After visiting, it’s a great idea to take a stroll along the riverside promenade, the Sisowath Quay, by the Mekong River.

PHNOM PENH RIVERSIDE PROMENADE

The Riverside of Phnom Penh, also known as Sisowath Quay, runs directly along the Mekong River and is one of the liveliest places in the city, especially at sunset and in the evening. Along the promenade, you will find restaurants, cafés, and bars, many of them offering river views.

Families stroll here, children play, and street vendors sell snacks.
At the northern end of Sisowath Quay, you can also book short river cruises, available for just a few dollars – perfect for watching the sunset or spending a relaxed evening on the water. During the day, boats also depart from here to Silk Island (Koh Dach), which is well known for its traditional silk production.

We enjoyed simply wandering along the promenade, watching the lively atmosphere, or sitting on a bench to take in the views of the Mekong River.

INDEPENDENCE MONUMENT & WAT BOTUM PARK

The Independence Monument is one of the most famous landmarks in Phnom Penh.
It was built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France.
The monument is particularly impressive in the evening when it is beautifully illuminated in different colors.
It is located in the middle of a roundabout and marks the starting point of Wat Botum Park.

The adjacent park is a spacious promenade in the heart of the city. Especially in the evening, it fills with locals who come here to stroll, exercise, or simply relax.

PHNOM PENH’S SHOPPING MALLS

The city’s malls are perfect for taking a break from the noise and heat.
In these air-conditioned shopping centers, you will find international brands, plenty of restaurants, cinemas showing movies in English, and often large supermarkets.
Particularly popular are the modern AEON Malls, which are a weekend meeting spot for families.
In addition, there are smaller malls such as Sorya Center Point or Olympic Mall, which may not be as modern but are often more affordable.

For us, visiting a mall was an interesting change from the bustling markets.
While the markets are loud, colorful, and chaotic, the malls feel calm and organized – almost like in any other big city.

KOH PICH ISLAND

A visit to Koh Pich in Phnom Penh was quite a surreal experience.
The island, also called Diamond Island, feels like a small parallel world: wide streets, lavish buildings in French style, and even a replica of the Champs-Élysées.
But if you look more closely, you will notice that many of the newly built houses are completely empty – almost like a stage set waiting for life to move in.
Koh Pich is a fascinating example of the strong influence Chinese investors have on the development of Phnom Penh.

BASSAC STREET

Bassac Street is one of Phnom Penh’s most popular hotspots for nightlife.
Trendy bars, modern cafés, and international restaurants line the street.
Prices are a bit higher here than in other parts of the city, which is why you will mostly meet tourists.
If you are in the mood for cocktails, live music, and a cosmopolitan vibe, this is the right place to be – even though the authentic Cambodian street atmosphere takes a bit of a backseat.

By the way: not far from here, at the corner of 51st and 288th Street, you will find a mysterious Coca-Cola fridge hidden at the end of a small alley.
What’s behind it? That’s something you’ll have to discover for yourself.
In the surrounding area, you will also find hip accommodations, small restaurants, and laid-back bars.
A detour to this street is definitely worth it.

3. KAMPOT

Our Accommodation: Rainforest Hotel by Nsun
Recommended Stay: 2 to 4 Days

From the capital, we traveled with a private driver to the town of Kampot, about 2.5 hours away by car.
After the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh, we deliberately chose a hotel a bit outside the center – and for our needs, it turned out to be the perfect choice.

The Rainforest Hotel by Nsun is a very modern hotel with spacious rooms and a beautiful garden.
The highlight for us was that our room had direct access to the hotel’s pool, so we could enjoy a refreshing dip whenever we wanted after sightseeing.
If you are still looking for a really good hotel in Kampot, we can absolutely recommend the Rainforest Hotel by Nsun.

Kampot itself is quite different from the last two cities we visited – somehow more relaxed.
The small town is famous for its world-renowned pepper, but also for charming, if sometimes a little run-down, colonial houses, colorful markets, and the laid-back riverside lifestyle.
Word has spread, and today Kampot is very popular with expats, backpackers, digital nomads, artists, domestic travelers, and flashpackers.
No wonder more and more hip cafés and restaurants are opening, perfectly complementing the city’s relaxed atmosphere.

Getting Around in Kampot: The town center is easy to explore on foot.
Since our accommodation was a bit outside and many sights are also not directly in the center, we rented a scooter.
We can highly recommend this: it gives you flexibility, allows you to stop wherever you like, and saves you quite a bit of money compared to tuk-tuks or taxis.

SIGHTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND KAMPOT

PEPPER FARMS AROUND KAMPOT

One of the main reasons for our stay in Kampot was the region’s famous pepper.
Kampot is well known for its pepper farms, and this exclusive spice has an excellent reputation.
Of course, we wanted to see for ourselves where it grows and how it is cultivated and processed.

But what makes Kampot pepper so special? The combination of the coastal climate and mineral-rich soils creates ideal conditions for the plants.
In 2010, Kampot pepper even received the protected geographical indication (PGI) – comparable to French Champagne.
Its taste is complex: sometimes fruity, sometimes floral, sometimes intensely peppery. No wonder it is highly valued by top chefs all over the world.

The pepper farms are all located a bit outside Kampot town. The easiest way to reach them is by scooter or taxi. Alternatively, you can also book a guided tour with pickup included.

We decided to go spontaneously and visited the small family-run Sothy’s Pepper Farm.
Without any prior reservation, we immediately received a private tour – very personal and welcoming.

Depending on the season, the pepper harvest is at a different stage.
During our visit, there were hardly any peppercorns on the plants.
Still, the trip was absolutely worth it: the friendly lady at the farm explained the cultivation methods in detail, showed us the fields, and answered all our questions.

Of course, we also got to taste the different varieties: black, red, white, and even fresh green pepper.
If you are looking for a truly exclusive souvenir to take home, this is the perfect place to buy it.

CAFÉS & RESTAURANTS

In the center of Kampot, you will find a wide variety of modern and sometimes hip cafés and restaurants.
There is something for every taste.
We especially liked the Epic Arts Café for its great coffee, delicious cheesecake, and social commitment.
CV Café and Brown Coffee are also good options for a short break.
For dining, we can recommend Lemongrass Restaurant with its Khmer cuisine, and for vegetarians or vegans, Simple Things is a great choice.

KAMPOT RIVERSIDE PROMENADE

The riverside promenade of Kampot is, for us, one of the most beautiful spots in the city.
During the day, you can take a leisurely walk along the water and watch the seahorse fountain, which has become a symbol of the promenade.

In the late afternoon, the area becomes lively: besides many people out for a stroll, we saw elderly women gathering to do group dance exercises to pop music.
When the sun sets, a small market opens at the end of the promenade.
There you will find not only plenty of food stalls with local specialties but also shoes, household goods, and much more.
During our stay, there was even a small Ferris wheel for children and other rides.

DURIAN ROUNDABOUT

The Durian Roundabout is the most famous landmark in Kampot and is impossible to miss.
In the middle of the town center stands an oversized durian fruit, which is both a fountain and a monument.
It is a real eye-catcher during the day and even more so at night when it is beautifully illuminated.

If you are wondering why this particular fruit is so celebrated here: the durian, also called the “king of fruits,” is one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic fruits.
It is famous (or infamous) for its strong aroma. To us, its taste was a bit like a mix of strong cheese with a sweet note, and honestly, not quite our favorite.
Still, it is deeply rooted in the local culture and symbolizes prosperity, strength, and even national identity.
No wonder it is highly valued in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia.

ENTANOU BRIDGE

The Entanou Bridge is not really a sightseeing attraction, but for us it was still part of the Kampot experience.
Originally built by the French, it has been destroyed several times over the years and repeatedly repaired with different parts.
This gives the bridge a somewhat adventurous look, but that is exactly what makes it so charming.
You can only cross the bridge on foot or by scooter. As you drive or walk over it, the metal plates rattle under the wheels, turning the crossing into a little adventure of its own.

SUNSET AT THE SALT FIELDS

We had planned to end our stay with a sunset visit to the salt fields, as we had read that it was supposed to be especially beautiful. In the end, we never made it that far.
The salt fields are located on the other side of the river, and the further we drove in that direction, the more fascinated we became by the surroundings.
At some point, we simply turned left and let ourselves drift.
The road was made of red earth, the houses were simple. Suddenly, a group of children came running toward us, waving so excitedly that we stopped.

Our daughter was still a baby at the time. Maybe that’s why the children were so fascinated by her blue eyes and blond hair.
Despite the language barrier, the children and their parents were incredibly warm and welcoming.
They live under very simple conditions, which not only impressed us but also grounded us. It is an encounter we will remember for a long time.

If we had had one more day, we definitely would have gone to the salt fields.
They are said to be hardly touristy, and with a bit of luck, you can watch the salt farmers at work – certainly an authentic and photogenic experience.
Unfortunately, we cannot share our own impressions, but if you get the chance to visit during your trip, we would love to hear about your experiences..

Our round trip through Cambodia ended in Kampot.
From there, we continued with a private driver to the Vietnamese border, where our next adventure began – a journey through Vietnam.
If you want to know which places we discovered there, feel free to check out our post Vietnam Round Trip with a Toddler – Itinerary, Tips & Highlights.

If, after all the sightseeing, you are looking for a few days of relaxation by the sea, it is worth heading to the coast.
Popular choices are the beach town of Sihanoukville as well as the island of Koh Rong.
From Kampot, you can reach Sihanoukville in about two and a half hours by car.
From there, regular ferries depart and take you to Koh Rong in around 45 to 60 minutes.

THIS POST WASN’T ENOUGH FOR YOU? DO YOU WANT EVEN MORE TIPS, INSPIRATION, AND SIGHTSEEING IDEAS FOR YOUR CAMBODIA TRIP? THEN MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR FOLLOWING POSTS:

• Traveling Cambodia with a Baby – Tips, Useful Information & Our Experiences
• Renting a Scooter in Cambodia – Helpful Tips & Information

USEFUL LINKS & RECOMMENDED TRAVEL GUIDES FOR YOU

• Find affordable Transfers with 12Go.com
• Find affordable rental cars at rentalcars.com
• Find affordable flights at skyscanner.com
• Discover the best accommodations
• The best Travel Guides for Cambodia
• Unique Excursions to Experience in Cambodia

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Note: This blog post contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or purchase something through these links, we earn a small commission. There is absolutely no change to the price for you.