Travel to Cambodia — everything you need to know
When to go to Cambodia?
- November – February — Dry and cool season : Best time to visit: mild temperatures (25–30 °C), blue skies and passable roads. Ideal for Angkor and the beaches.
- June – October — Rainy season (lush and less crowded) : The countryside turns lush and Angkor sees fewer tourists. Showers are often brief. Costs are lower.
Weather in Cambodia
Check the weather city by city, starting with Phnom Penh.
- Phnom Penh: daytime highs from 31 to 35 °C depending on the season, 118 mm of rain per month on average.
- Siem Reap: daytime highs from 31 to 36 °C depending on the season, 117 mm of rain per month on average.
What to do in Cambodia?
Cambodia is the land of Angkor, one of the world's greatest archaeological sites. Beyond its Khmer temples, it offers still-unspoiled beaches, the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Lake, and a culture steeped in Buddhist serenity despite the traumatic legacy of the Khmer Rouge.
Angkor & Siem Reap
Angkor is one of the world's most awe-inspiring archaeological sites: 400 km² of Khmer temples dating from the 9th to the 15th century. Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure ever built, is Cambodia's defining symbol.
Highlights : Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom & Bayon, Ta Prohm (jungle temple), Banteay Srei.
Phnom Penh
The capital is a compelling city on the banks of the Mekong. The Royal Palace, Buddhist pagodas and Central Market stand in stark contrast to the Tuol Sleng (S-21) and Choeung Ek memorials, poignant reminders of the Khmer Rouge genocide.
Highlights : Phnom Penh Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Museum (S-21), Choeung Ek (Killing Fields), National Museum.
Sihanoukville beaches & islands
The islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Samloem offer white-sand beaches and still-preserved turquoise waters. Sihanoukville is the gateway, although the main town has changed dramatically in recent years.
Highlights : Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Rong, Long Set Beach, Ream National Park.
Battambang
Battambang is Cambodia's second-largest city, more authentic and less touristy than Siem Reap. Its pre-Angkorian temples, bamboo train (Norry), pottery villages and colonial architecture make it a charming stop.
Highlights : Bamboo train (Norry), Phnom Sampeau (cliffside temple), Wat Banan Temple, Phnom Pros village.
Travel budget for Cambodia
Cambodia is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia. The US dollar is widely accepted and often preferred over the local riel.
- Backpacker : 25–40 €/j — Dorm bed, local eateries, tuk-tuks
- Comfort : 55–90 €/j — 3★ hotel, restaurants, guided excursions
- Luxury : 150 €+/j — Boutique hotel with pool, spa, private tours
Practical tips for travelling to Cambodia
- Flight from Paris : ~13–14h with a stopover (Bangkok, Singapore, KL)
- Visa : Online e-visa (~USD 36 = $30 visa + $6 fee) or visa on arrival (USD 35)
- Currency : USD widely accepted (1€ ≈ USD 1.05–1.10)
- Language : Khmer (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
- Electricity : Type A/C/G – 230 V (a universal adapter is recommended)
- Mobile network : 4G in cities, local SIM from Smart or Metfone
- Tap water : Not drinkable, bottled water is essential
- Health : Antimalarial medication is recommended for rural and forested areas
Compare Cambodia with other destinations