Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital, is one of Asia’s most unusual and interesting cities.
On the banks of the mighty Mekong River, at its confluence with the Tonle Sap, the city is the heart and soul of Cambodia and embodies the country’s relationship with water, never more so than during the November Water Festival.
The wild west of Cambodia during the twenty years or so immediately following the war, the city maintains a unique vibrancy and provides a fascinating contrast between old and new. Abandoned during the Khmer Rouge period and with very little development until the 21st century, Phnom Penh has (so far) avoided the mass modern high rise development of other cities in Southeast Asia. However, the wide boulevards are awash with motos and 4WDs. This contrast, along with the palaces, markets, temples and eclectic mix of colonial and Cambodian architecture, makes strolling around or taking a cyclo an interesting experience.
You can head out for the day on our signature, exclusive guided day trip around the city, including a morning at the Tuol Sleng Museum and the ‘Killing Fields’ before finishing the rest of the day on a more upbeat and uplifting note. Whilst the morning can be chilling and very upsetting, this is essential to understanding what happened in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge and Pol Pot years. If you would rather avoid that part of Cambodia, please let your travel consultant know, and we will be happy to leave it out of the itinerary.
There are excellent hotels in the city, ranging from simple and boutique-like Pavilion to the luxury like Raffles and Rosewood. Our consultants can advise you on the best option.
ETG Sample Itineraries in Phnom Penh
Cambodia
Luxury Cambodia Adventure
This memorable journey through Cambodia provides a feeling of adventure with accommodation in the best and most characterful hotels.
You’ll discover Cambodian culture, roam the ancient wonders of Angkor in Siem Reap and learn about the past and thriving present in Phnom Penh.
Get immersed in natural beauty at a unique luxury ‘camp’ in the jungle and at a tranquil, top-notch island resort. You’ll travel with a knowledgeable local guide to ensure that your experience is enriching and comfortable. In between, you’ll have to relax and enjoy each special hotel.
Highlights
Shinta Mani Wild
Staying in luxury tent-style accommodation in the Cambodian jungle at Shinta Mani Wild
Song Saa Private Island
Spending five nights unwinding on the coast, with your own beachfront villa with views out to the ocean
Phnom Penh
Discovering the highlights of Cambodia’s colonial capital, Phnom Penh, on our unique signature tours
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Cambodia
Off-The-Beaten-Track Family Adventure
This three-week itinerary, designed for families, is a fun and original way to explore Cambodia’s diverse regions. As every journey is overland, you will soak up the atmosphere as you travel. You’ll find yourself immersed in the various sites and scenery, enthralled by stories from the past and inspired by ordinary people, purposefully embracing their future.
Highlights
Mountain camping
Camp under the stars, surrounded by nature in a sacred mountain range near Siem Reap
Eco experience
Get completely off the tourist trail in Mondulkiri
Explore Angkor
Marvel at the magnificence of Angkor and discover secret corners of the temple complex on a guided cycle ride
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Cambodia
Cambodia to Vietnam via The Mekong
On this holiday, you’ll experience the highlights of Cambodia and Vietnam, connected by the winding Mekong River. Travelling at a relaxed pace by river and road means you’ll truly feel the contrast between laid-back Cambodia and lively Vietnam.
Highlights
Mekong journeys
Cross the border between Cambodia and Vietnam by boat
Private Angkor Experience
Explore the timeless temples of Angkor with your expert guide
Vespa experience
Feel the atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) as you travel pillion on a vintage Vespa
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Cambodia
Grand Journey Around Cambodia
Cambodia is often treated as a short must-see, stop-off on a whirlwind trip of Southeast Asia. In fact, it’s a truly remarkable holiday destination in its own right.
The vast majority of tourists come and view Angkor, which is, of course, wonderful, but explore a little further and you’ll discover a fascinating country full of hidden gems that many visitors miss. This suggested trip loops right around the Kingdom with plenty of time in each place to take in the many and varied wonders – both natural, historical and cultural. It covers 3 weeks but can, of course, be scaled back or extended to fit your timeframe.
From the famous Angkor Temples to the remote jungles of Mondulkiri, back down through the bustling capital Phnom Penh to the sleepy seaside towns of the South. This example itinerary offers an in-depth experience of a country rising out of its bloody history with resilience and sparkling energy.
Highlights
Elephant spotting
Head into the wild and grassy forests of Mondulkiri to the fantastic Elephant Valley Project
Private Angkor Experience
Discover the secrets of the incredible Angkor temples with your private expert guide
Eco experience
Explore the organic farm and experience the fantastic ethos at the Smiling Gecko project in the countryside near Phnom Penh
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Cambodia
The Mekong in Style
Take in the highlights of Cambodia and southern Vietnam and spend four days cruising along the Mekong River in the finest style. Stay in Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap’s best hotels and travel through the Mekong aboard the luxurious Aqua Mekong cruise.
From your hotel base, and whilst cruising, you’ll enjoy a range of specially crafted excursions to ensure you experience the region memorably and uniquely, tailored to your style.
Highlights
Aqua Mekong
Indulge yourself in a river adventure aboard the Aqua Mekong.
Song Saa Private Island
Relax in paradise on Song Saa Private Island with snorkelling, yoga, and spa treatments.
Angkor
The magnificent temples of Angkor – say no more….
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Cambodia
Hidden Gems of Cambodia
As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We will create a bespoke package which will be completely unique for you.
Highlights
Angkor exploring
Explore secret corners of the magnificent Angkor temple complex with your brilliant local guide
Eco experience
Explore the organic farm and experience the fantastic ethos at the Smiling Gecko project in the countryside near Phnom Penh
Beach bliss
Spend time snorkelling, swimming and relaxing whilst based at an idyllic beach on tropical Koh Rong