Top 10 must-see visits when traveling to Cambodia

With a rich culture, dazzling archaeological remains, an old-fashioned colonial charm, mesmerizing countryside, endearing people and heavenly beaches, Cambodia has everything to seduce! Don't miss any of the 10 must-see sites during your next stay in the ancient Khmer kingdom.

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1. The fabulous temples of Angkor

It is unthinkable to travel to Cambodia without visiting the majestic temples of Angkor, an architectural jewel of Siem Reap classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. You will appreciate this archaeological park of Angkor, a relic of incredible wealth testifying to the power of the Khmer empire which shone between the 9th and 15th centuries on the Indochinese peninsula. The hot air balloon flight over the temples of Angkor remains a truly exceptional travel experience.

2. The capital Phnom Penh

Ideally located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Bassac and Tonle Sap, the former "pearl of Asia", the lively and dynamic capital of Cambodia, retains considerable charm. Travelers are seduced by its cultural heritage, including the Royal Palace, by its vitality, its large shaded avenues and its culinary offering that has something to satisfy the most delicate palates. It is worth knowing that the capital of Cambodia has a beautiful collection of charming hotels.

3. The peaceful seaside resort of Kep

This former seaside resort from the colonial era with its old-fashioned charm delights travelers wishing to take a beach break in a quiet and still well-preserved place. Kep and its long-curved beach welcome you for moments of relaxation punctuated by excursions to the surrounding islands, walks in its national park, culinary pleasures including its famous crab and sumptuous sunsets. Located 2-hours’ drive from Phnom Penh and only 25 kilometers from Kampot, Kep fits perfectly into your tour of Cambodia.

4. The lively seaside resort of Sihanoukville

The largest seaside resort in Cambodia, much livelier than that of Kep, offers travelers many beaches and a multitude of activities. Scuba diving, boat trips to discover the superb offshore islands, the whole range of water sports, excursions in the Ream National Park or simply pampering yourself in a spa. The seaside resort of Sihanoukville meets all the desires for relaxation with family, couples or friends.

5. Kampot river town

Kampot River town is a very pleasant stopover during your discovery of southern Cambodia. A favorite of many travelers, Kampot seduces with its tranquility, its old faded colonial houses, its magnificent countryside covered with rice fields, its community of Cham minority fishermen, its superb sunset that can be admired during a cruise on the river and its proximity to the Bokor National Park. Of course, let's not forget its pepper plantations where Kampot pepper is grown, renowned for being one of the best in the world. It goes perfectly with Kep crab!

6. The beautiful countryside of Battambang

Capital of a rich rice-growing province located in the Northwest of the country, the provincial city of Battambang immediately seduces the traveler with its authenticity and tranquility. Airy and well-organized, this ancient Khmer capital lying on the banks of the Sangker River has retained a certain charm with its beautiful colonial residences and its central market that never lacks activity and picturesqueness. The magnificent countryside conceals many treasures to discover during your stay in Cambodia: temples, pagodas, the “bamboo train” and even a vineyard!

7. The Mondulkiri Mountains

A remote mountainous region, Mondulkiri is popular with travelers wishing to get off the beaten track. Its superb natural setting is a wonderful adventure playground where you can hike through its virgin forests and thick jungles, bathe in impressive waterfalls, and meet elephants and ethnic minorities with well-preserved ancestral customs. It’s a unique journey to the heart of wild and traditional Cambodia.

8. Preah Vihear Temple

Located on the edge of a plateau overlooking the Cambodian plain on the border with Thailand, the Preah Vihear Temple, dedicated to Shiva, is made up of a series of sanctuaries dating from the first half of the 11th century. You will be amazed by the exceptional view it offers as well as by its remarkable architecture and the quality of the carved stone ornaments that have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Kratie and the Mekong River

A small, peaceful town on the banks of the Mekong, Kratie enchants the traveler with its nonchalance and its old buildings dating from the colonial era. We also enjoy visiting the small islands facing it, discovering the majestic temples in the surrounding area and observing the Irrawaddy freshwater dolphins that spawn in the waters of the mythical Mekong River. A timeless stopover in a pretty corner of Cambodia where the Khmer soul resides.

10. Tonle Sap Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and a site recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, Tonle Sap is a huge reservoir in the alluvial plain of central Cambodia. It is an extraordinary ecosystem due to its biological richness and its balance between man and nature. You will particularly enjoy taking a boat trip there to discover the typical river life of the floating villages and to observe the many birds that have taken up residence on its banks.

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