Cambodia, a captivating blend of ancient temples, vibrant cities, and lush countryside, awaits travelers seeking rich history and culture. In this guide, we explore the main ways to travel to Cambodia, whether you’re looking for a quick flight, scenic drive, or river cruise. For an unforgettable experience, connect with our tour page to dive deeper into Cambodia’s enchanting landmarks and immersive tours.
Border Crossings: Navigating Cambodia’s Key Points
Cambodia has numerous border crossings with Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, making it accessible by road from several points. In recent years, border facilities have improved, catering to both trade and tourism. The key border points with Thailand include Poipet and Aranya Prathet, while crossings like Bavet and Moc Bai serve travelers between Cambodia and Vietnam. Make sure to check visa requirements at these checkpoints if you’re a South Asian passport holder, as regulations may vary.
Travel to Cambodia by Flight
When it comes to speed and convenience, flying into Cambodia is often the best option. The busiest times for flights from regions like Europe, North America, and Australia are December and July-August, with prices dropping in February, June, and October. Most international travelers fly through Bangkok, a major Southeast Asian hub, making it easy to find frequent flights to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. From Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you can also catch direct flights into Cambodia’s top destinations.
Getting to Cambodia by Bus and Car
Bus Journeys: A Budget-Friendly Option
Bus travel from Thailand or Vietnam is both economical and convenient. The Bavet–Moc Bai route is popular for travelers coming from Vietnam, while the Poipet–Aranya Prathet border is a frequent crossing for those arriving from Thailand. Bus trips offer an affordable and scenic way to travel to Cambodia, and many services are available from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and other regional cities.
Car and Motorcycle Adventures
For the adventurous traveler, driving or riding a motorcycle into Cambodia is an option. Drivers need registration papers, insurance, and an international driving license. For motorcycles, the vehicle passport (carnet de passage) is essential to simplify the customs process. If you’re keen on a unique, road-based experience, riding a motorcycle across Cambodia’s countryside is an incredible way to explore at your own pace.
Cruising into Cambodia
Cruises offer a unique approach to entering Cambodia, especially from Vietnam via the Mekong River. Cruises from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc offer stunning river views and a tranquil entry into Cambodia, making it a memorable experience for travelers. For luxury options, there are high-end river cruises that travel directly to the temples of Angkor, offering an immersive travel to Cambodia that combines comfort with scenic beauty.
Ideal Time to Travel to Cambodia
While Cambodia welcomes visitors year-round, the best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier. The wet season, from May to October, sees fewer crowds and lush green landscapes but can present travel challenges due to rain. Understanding the seasons can help you plan the best activities, from temple visits to countryside excursions.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Cambodia?
For travelers with limited time, three to four days in Siem Reap is enough to explore Angkor Wat and surrounding temples. If you’re interested in historical sites across Cambodia, plan for at least a week to visit Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and Battambang’s ancient ruins. For those with more time, two weeks allows for an immersive travel experience across Cambodia’s historical, cultural, and scenic highlights.
Best Ideas for Visiting Cambodia
With so much to see, deciding on the best itinerary can be challenging. Here are a few recommendations:
Historical Focus: Start in Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat, then visit the Angkor National Museum for insights into the region’s history. Round off with a trip to the ancient city of Koh Ker.
Cultural Exploration: Visit Phnom Penh to see the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and the moving Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. In Battambang, experience Cambodia’s creative art scene and historic architecture.
Adventure and Nature: Explore Ratanakiri or Mondulkiri provinces for their waterfalls, jungle treks, and opportunities to engage with Cambodia’s indigenous communities.
For more in-depth tour recommendations, check out our tour page for expertly curated experiences.
If travel by bus from Bangkok how many day should I visit Siem reap, Cambodia?
For a bus trip from Bangkok to Siem Reap, Cambodia, a 3- to 4-day itinerary is ideal for getting a good experience of Siem Reap’s highlights, especially if you want to explore the iconic temples of Angkor and some of the surrounding attractions. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
Day 1: Travel and Arrival
Travel Time: The bus journey from Bangkok to Siem Reap takes approximately 8–9 hours, including a stop at the Poipet border crossing.
Arrival and Relaxation: Upon arrival in Siem Reap, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. If you have energy, you might explore the local area and grab dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Angkor Wat and Main Temples
Morning: Start early to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat—one of the most memorable experiences in Cambodia. Spend the morning exploring the main temple complex.
Afternoon: Visit other nearby temples like Bayon Temple in Angkor Thom, known for its stone faces, and Ta Prohm, famous for its trees growing through the ruins.
Day 3: Lesser-Known Temples and Siem Reap City
Morning: Explore lesser-visited temples, such as Banteay Srei (the “Citadel of Women”), known for its intricate carvings.
Afternoon: Return to Siem Reap for a city tour, visiting the Angkor National Museum to gain more insights into Khmer history and art.
Evening: End the day with a visit to the Old Market and enjoy dinner at Pub Street.
Optional Day 4: Relaxation or Additional Exploration
If you have an extra day, consider taking a boat tour on Tonlé Sap Lake, where you can see floating villages and learn about local life along Cambodia’s largest lake. Alternatively, relax at your hotel or take a spa day to unwind before your return journey.
This 3- to 4-day itinerary will allow you to experience Siem Reap’s cultural and historical highlights without feeling rushed. For a more in-depth visit, staying 5–6 days will let you explore more remote temples and enjoy a slower pace.
Exploring Cambodia’s Rich Heritage
Whether your journey begins by air, land, or river, Cambodia promises a travel experience steeped in history and natural beauty. Each mode of travel to Cambodia offers its own unique perspective, helping you appreciate the blend of tradition and vibrancy that defines this beautiful country.