How to Spend 2 Weeks in Cambodia: The Ultimate Backpacking Itinerary (2026)
Cambodia was one of the biggest surprises during our backpacking trip through Southeast Asia.
Before visiting, we knew about Angkor Wat, beautiful islands and cheap backpacker hostels. What we didn’t expect was how much we would love the country as a whole. From learning about Cambodia’s tragic history in Phnom Penh to watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat and relaxing on the beaches of Koh Rong Samloem, every stop felt completely different from the last.
We ended up spending a month travelling around Cambodia, which gave us plenty of time to explore beyond the highlights. However, if you only have two weeks, this itinerary covers the country’s biggest attractions while still leaving enough time to slow down and enjoy each destination.
This 2 weeks in Cambodia itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and follows a logical route through Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Koh Rong Samloem and Kampot before returning to the capital.
Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, are the best products possible whilst travelling.
2 Weeks in Cambodia Itinerary: Quick Overview
| Days 1-3 | Phnom Penh |
| Days 4-7 | Siem Reap |
| Days 8-11 | Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem |
| Days 12-13 | Kampot |
| Day 14 | Phnom Penh |
Is two weeks enough to see Cambodia?
Yes! While we spent a whole month in Cambodia, most people we met on our travels were only there for a couple of weeks!
You may miss out on a couple of stops throughout the country but two weeks will definitely give you enough time to see the absolute highlights!
Cambodia Itinerary Map
Things you should know about Cambodia:
- Out of all the 195 countries in the world, it is the only flag to feature a building.
- The US Dollar is the unofficial second currency of Cambodia.
- 2 million Cambodians were killed during the country’s civil war from 1975 to 1979.
- Subsequently, roughly 50% of the population is under 15 years of age.
- Cambodia is one of the very few countries that doesn’t have a McDonald’s. Whilst KFC is present in Cambodia, it actually loses money being here.
- There are estimated to be nearly 6 million active landmines in the country, leftover from the civil war. As many as 30 people die a year as a result.
- Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious building.
- Khmer is the only official spoken language in Cambodia.
How to Get Around Cambodia
One thing we loved about travelling in Cambodia was how easy it was to move between destinations.
Most travellers use tourist buses, minivans and ferries, all of which are affordable and relatively straightforward to book online or through accommodation.
For this itinerary we recommend:
- Phnom Penh to Siem Reap by bus or minivan
- Siem Reap to Sihanoukville by overnight bus
- Ferry to Koh Rong or Koh Rong Samloem
- Ferry back to the mainland
- Bus to Kampot
- Bus back to Phnom Penh
Transport is inexpensive compared to Europe, making Cambodia a great destination for backpackers. We used 12Go Asia to book most of our transport, or at tourism desks scattered around the country. If you’re planning your first trip, check out our tips for travelling Cambodia for more transport and budget advice.
Stop 1: Phnom Penh (Days 1-3)
Cambodia’s capital often gets overlooked in favour of Siem Reap and the islands, but we think it’s an important place to begin your trip. It’s busy, chaotic and far less polished than Bangkok, but it provides valuable insight into Cambodia’s history and culture. Even if you only have one day in Phnom Penh, it is well worth the visit.
Must Do in Phnom Penh
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
This was one of the most moving places we visited in Cambodia. Formerly known as S-21 prison, the museum documents the horrors of the Khmer Rouge regime and provides important context for understanding modern Cambodia.
It’s not an easy visit, but it’s one we think every traveller should make.
Visit the Killing Fields
The Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum complement each other and help tell the story of Cambodia’s recent history. Allow at least half a day for both sites; you can easily book a tour to do both in one trip.
Explore the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace offers a complete contrast to the sombre historical attractions. The complex showcases beautiful Khmer architecture and remains one of Phnom Penh’s most popular landmarks.
Walk Along the Riverside
In the evenings, the riverside comes alive with locals exercising, families gathering and travellers enjoying the atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Budget: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
Mid-range: Palace Gate Hotel
Boutique Hotel: Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
For a detailed city guide, check out our guide to Phnom Penh.
Stop 2: Siem Reap (Days 4-7)
Siem Reap is the highlight of most Cambodia itineraries. Although Angkor Wat is the main reason people visit, we found there was plenty to do beyond temple hopping!
Must Do in Siem Reap
Explore Angkor Wat
No Cambodia itinerary would be complete without visiting Angkor Wat. We highly recommend getting up early to watch the famous sunrise. The temple complex is huge, so don’t underestimate how much time you’ll need.
Read our complete Angkor Wat sunrise guide before your visit.
Visit Tonle Sap Lake
Tonle Sap offers a different side of Cambodia and provides insight into life on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
Experience Pub Street
Whether you’re backpacking Cambodia or simply visiting for a short holiday, you’ll probably end up on Pub Street at some point.
It’s touristy but fun and packed with bars, restaurants and night markets.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Budget: Onederz Hostel
Mid-range: Central Suite Residence
Boutique Hotel: Golden Temple Boutique
For more options, check out our guide on where to stay in Siem Reap.
Stop 3: Koh Rong & Koh Rong Samloem (Days 8-11)
After busy cities and early mornings exploring temples, the islands provide the perfect opportunity to slow down.
If we were planning this trip again, we’d happily spend even longer here!
Koh Rong vs Koh Rong Samloem
Koh Rong is the more developed island and has a lively backpacker atmosphere.
Samloem is quieter, more relaxed and home to some of the most beautiful beaches we saw in Cambodia.
If possible, split your time between both!
Must Do on the Islands
Relax on the Beach
Sometimes the best activity is doing absolutely nothing.
Go Snorkelling
The waters around the islands are ideal for snorkelling and boat trips.
Watch the Sunset
Some of our favourite evenings in Cambodia were spent watching the sun disappear over the ocean.
Swim with Bioluminescent Plankton
One of the most memorable experiences on the islands.
Where to Stay on Koh Rong
Budget: Mad Monkey Koh Rong
Mid-range: Sara Resort
Boutique Hotel: Sol Beach Resort
Stop 4: Kampot (Days 12-13)
Kampot ended up being one of our favourite destinations in Cambodia. Compared to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, it feels much slower and more relaxed.
Must Do in Kampot
Visit a Kampot Pepper Farm
Kampot pepper is famous around the world and visiting a local farm is one of the area’s most popular activities.
Explore the Riverside
The riverside atmosphere is one of the reasons people fall in love with Kampot.
Visit Bokor National Park
Home to mountain views, abandoned buildings and cooler temperatures.
Enjoy the Food Scene
Kampot has some fantastic cafés and restaurants. For more ideas, read our complete Kampot travel guide.
Where to Stay in Kampot
Budget: Karma Traders
Mid-range: Kampot Cabana
Boutique Hotel: Hotel Old Cinema
Stop 5: Return to Phnom Penh (Day 14)
Most international flights depart from Phnom Penh, making it the logical place to finish your Cambodia itinerary.
Depending on your flight time, you can squeeze in some last-minute sightseeing, shopping or simply enjoy a final Cambodian coffee before heading to the airport.
How Cheap is Cambodia?
Cambodia remains one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia.
Backpackers can comfortably travel on:
- $25-40 per day budget
- $40-80 per day mid-range budget
Accommodation, local food and transport are generally excellent value, although activities such as Angkor Wat tickets can increase your daily spending.
FAQs About Spending 2 Weeks in Cambodia
Yes. Two weeks is enough time to visit Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Koh Rong Samloem and Kampot while still allowing time to relax.
For first-time visitors, we recommend Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Koh Rong Samloem and Kampot. This route provides a great mix of history, culture, beaches and local experiences.
We recommend at least three to four days. This allows time to explore Angkor Wat, visit Tonle Sap and enjoy the city itself.
Yes. Cambodia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia and is ideal for backpackers.
If you have time, visit both. Koh Rong offers more nightlife and backpacker vibes, while Koh Rong Samloem is quieter and better for relaxation.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering what to do in Cambodia in two weeks, this itinerary covers the country’s biggest highlights without feeling overly rushed.
From learning about the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh and exploring Angkor Wat in Siem Reap to island hopping around Koh Rong Samloem and relaxing in Kampot, you’ll experience some of the very best Cambodia has to offer.
We spent a month travelling around Cambodia and could easily have stayed longer, but if you’re short on time, this two-week route is an excellent introduction to one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated countries.
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Disclaimer: Some of the links included on our website may contain affiliate links. We may receive some commission from purchases made via these but it will NOT affect the price you pay. This is to allow this site to stay online and ensure that readers use, what we believe, is the best products possible whilst travelling.
This is so helpful, I honestly have been struggling to figure out how many days to spend in each place when we visit Cambodia. It’s so hard to tell!
So glad this post has helped Samantha. If you do have any other questions then don’t hesitate to drop us a message.
I have wanted to go to Angkor Wat for years but figured I’d tie it into a Southeast Asia trip. I did a cruise from Hong Kong to Singapore so I was in Vietnam but didn’t have enough time to get there. I see a Vietnam and Cambodia trip in my future.
You should definitely go to Angkor Wat for the sunrise if you can. Your cruise sounds amazing!!
Oh, I had to leave SE Asia in March 2020, right before I was about to go to Cambodia. It is so nice to hear they are open again. However, it makes me sad that the pandemic made the situation so bad that now we have to be cautious of scams everywhere.
Sorry to hear your trip got cut short; Cambodia is a beautiful place!
Very helpful practical information. Angkor Wat has been on my list of places to see for some time. The beaches throughout Cambodia also look fantastic.
Thank you so much; Angkor Wat was so beautiful although a very early morning!
Great suggestions. It’s so long since I’ve been. I really want to return such a beautiful country with amazing history.
Thank you so much, Rachel! We absolutely loved Cambodia and it really surprised us.