Classic Cambodia Itinerary 7 Days: What To See and Do

First-time travelers who want to see Cambodia’s attractions, culture, and history should take this Classic 7-day Cambodia itinerary.  In this article, I share my real experiences to cater to travelers’ specific interests and include a mix of ancient wonders, local life, scenic nature, and the cultural highlights of Siem Reap and Phnom Penh —all at a comfortable pace. Whether you’re looking for a one-week Cambodia itineraries or planning a longer stay, this guide works well as a flexible Cambodia trip planner.

Day 1: Arrival in Siem Reap—City Stroll & Welcome Dinner

• Airport pickup and hotel check-in
  • Walk around the Old Market.
  • Visit a local handicraft workshop.
  • Khmer dinner at a local restaurant

Your Cambodia travel itinerary begins in the charming city of Siem Reap, a perfect base for launching your one-week adventure in Cambodia.

Day 2: Angkor Wat Sunrise & Temple Tour

• Sunrise at Angkor Wat with a local guide
  • Visit Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm
  • Lunch break near the temples
  • Optional evening Apsara dance show with dinner

A highlight of any 7-day itinerary in Cambodia is witnessing sunrise at Angkor Wat—an iconic start to your Cambodia itinerary 7 days experience.

Day 3: Banteay Srei, Local Villages, and Floating Village

• In the morning, visit Banteay Srei Temple and explore the surrounding countryside communities.
  • Visit Palm Sugar Village
  • Explore Preah Ko and Bakong temples.
  • Take a boat trip to Kampong Phluk on Tonle Sap Lake.

This segment of your Cambodia itineraries introduces you to the spiritual and rural essence of the country.

Day 4: Phnom Kulen National Park Adventure

• Full-day excursion to Phnom Kulen: 1000 Lingas, reclining Buddha, and waterfall swim
  • A lunch break on the way back
  • Return to Siem Reap
  • Evening performance at Phare Circus

Nature lovers will appreciate this unique addition to a Cambodia 1-week itinerary, blending culture and natural beauty. You might learn more Phnom kulen Siem Reap attraction, Check out Guide to Phnom Kulen

Day 5: Transfer to Phnom Penh—Scenic Drive

• Travel from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
  • Stop at Sambor Prei Kuk
  • Visit the Spider Market and Naga Bridge.
  • Hotel check-in
  • Optional Mekong sunset cruise

This overland transfer marks the halfway point in your 7 days in Cambodia, offering a glimpse into rural life between the two major cities.

Day 6: Phnom Penh City Tour & Cultural Insights

• SOSORO Museum (history of Cambodia)
  • Discover colonial architecture and landmarks: central post office, central market, and Wat Phnom.
  • Visit National Museum, Royal Palace
  • Lunch break

Cultural buffs will find Phnom Penh an essential part of any Cambodia travel itinerary, especially in a 1 week in Cambodia timeframe.

Day 7: Souvenir Shopping & River Cruise

• Visit Silk Island (Koh Dach)
  • Explore the Russian Market
  • Tonlé Sap sunset cruise

Wrap up your one-week trip with relaxing moments and last-minute gift shopping.

Estimated Costs for 7 Days in Cambodia

Where to Stay

• Stay near the city center: choose from hotels in Siem Reap (Somadevi, Courtyard, Angkor Village), Phnom Penh (Nike Hotel or Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort), or Battambang (VV Hotel).
  • It is recommended to book your Cambodia itinerary at least 3 months in advance.

Tip: Book an Affordable Cambodia Trip Itinerary

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Final Thoughts

Starting your Cambodia trip itinerary in Siem Reap lets you dive into ancient Khmer civilization before exploring the modern pulse of Phnom Penh. This route is perfect for both first-timers and return visitors looking for a rich, well-paced travel itinerary in Cambodia. Whether you’re planning a Cambodia one week itinerary or exploring various Cambodia itineraries, this 7-day journey offers a balance of history, culture, and comfort. Contact us to start your Cambodia itinerary 7 days from Siem Reap →