Ahhhh Sihanoukville, where Cambodia meets the coast and beaches and beautiful islands await. Sihanoukville has a bit of something for everyone, so my pretty extensive list below can be chopped and changed according to your plans. But low and behold, here is my recommended six-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to this dynamic province.

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning: Golden Lions Roundabout Start your Sihanoukville adventure by snapping a photo with the iconic Golden Lions Roundabout. This isn’t just any statue—it’s a symbol of the city’s resilience and growth. Fun fact: locals often gather here for celebrations, and it’s a popular meeting spot. Grab a coconut from a nearby vendor and soak in the atmosphere!

Afternoon: Phsar Leu Market Dive into local life at Phsar Leu, the city’s largest market. This is where you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to handcrafted goods. Wander through the stalls and sample some Cambodian street food (I recommend the grilled squid!). You can also pick up a few unique souvenirs. Get ready for an assault on the senses!

Photo: Visit Local Travel

Evening: Wat Leu Pagoda Head up to Wat Leu, perched on a hill overlooking the city. The views here are spectacular, especially at sunset. The pagoda itself is beautiful, with intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot to reflect on the day and take in the panoramic scenery.

Day 2: Beach Day! + Water Activities

Morning: Ochheuteal Beach & Otres Beach Kick off your beach day at Ochheuteal and Otres Beaches. Ochheuteal is lively and great for water activities like windsurfing and kayaking. Otres, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back vibe with rustic beach bars and chill music. Grab a fresh fruit shake and let the waves wash your worries away.

Photo: Harbor Property

Afternoon: Serendipity Beach Make your way to Serendipity Beach, known for its luxury feel and proximity to the Sokha Resort. Treat yourself to some fine dining or a cocktail by the sea. This beach is more polished and perfect for those who like a touch of luxury with their sun and sand.

Evening: Independence Beach End the day at Independence Beach, a quieter and more serene spot. This beach is ideal for watching the sunset in peace, away from the crowds. Bring a book or just relax with the sound of the waves.

Find more Things To Do in Cambodia

Day 3: Island Adventures

Full Day: Koh Rong Island No trip to Sihanoukville is complete without a visit to Koh Rong. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, Koh Rong is a tropical paradise. Spend the day snorkeling, scuba diving, or kayaking. Don’t miss the chance to see the bioluminescent plankton at night—it’s a magical experience you won’t forget.

Where to Stay:

• Tree House Bungalows: A unique beachfront stay offering rustic bungalows surrounded by nature. Perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the island’s serenity.

• The Big Easy Hostel: A great spot for good value food, drinks, and a friendly young crowd who enjoy games and a party! Find out more here.

• The Royal Sands Koh Rong: For a more luxurious experience, this resort offers private villas, a spa, and fine dining, all set on a pristine beach.

Day 4: More Island Exploration

Full Day: Koh Rong Samloem Island If you’re craving tranquility, Koh Rong Samloem is the place to be. This island is more laid-back than its sister island, with stunning beaches and peaceful vibes. Take a jungle trail trek to the lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the island. It’s a great way to reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries.

Photo: Visit Koh Rong

Where to Stay:

• The One Resort: Offers beautiful beachfront villas with an infinity pool and a restaurant that serves up delicious local and international dishes.
• Sara Resort: A mid-range option with comfortable rooms, excellent service, and easy beach access. Great for families and couples alike.

Discover more places to Eat, Drink & Stay in Cambodia

Day 5: Nature and Waterfalls

Morning: Ream National Park Explore the tropical wonders of Ream National Park. Take a boat trip through the mangroves and spot wildlife along the way. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. Don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon: Kbal Chhay Waterfalls Head to the stunning Kbal Chhay Waterfalls, located about 21km from central Sihanoukville. The cascading waterfalls are perfect for a refreshing swim or a family-friendly picnic. It’s a beautiful spot to relax and take in the natural surroundings.

Day 6: Local Life and Historical Sites

Morning: The Fishing Port For a glimpse into local life, visit Sihanoukville’s bustling fishing port. Watch fishermen bring in their catch of the day and explore the vibrant dock area. It’s a fascinating cultural experience that’s just a short ride from the city center.

Afternoon: Independence Monument Visit the Independence Monument, a significant historical site in Sihanoukville. Surrounded by a small park, it’s a great spot to learn about Cambodia’s history and capture some memorable photos. The monument symbolizes Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule.

Evening: Nightlife in Sihanoukville Wrap up your trip with a taste of Sihanoukville’s nightlife. From cozy beach bars to lively casinos, there’s something for everyone. Try a local craft beer or dance the night away at one of the city’s clubs. It’s the perfect way to end your Sihanoukville adventure.

Additional Recommendations

Ream Beach If time permits, make your way to Ream Beach for a quiet, untouched getaway. Surrounded by natural beauty, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the peaceful side of Sihanoukville.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling For underwater enthusiasts, Sihanoukville offers vibrant marine life around islands like Koh Rong, Koh Rong Samloem, Koh Russei, and Koh Ta Kiev. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-timer, there are plenty of spots to explore.

Sihanoukville is cool and as shown, there are multiple different reasons to get stuck in this gorgeous province. Safe travels, and don’t forget to share your Sihanoukville stories with us at Cambodia Lifestyle!

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What a great name right? Battambang! I always loved the sound of that and the nearby province of Bantay Meanchey. Anyway, there’s more to these places than just the name, and today I’m explaining my recommended two-day trip to Battambang Province in Cambodia. 

Battambang is a city steeped in history and charm, and it offers a plethora of activities and sights that make it an unforgettable destination. Here’s a detailed account of my day, along with some tips for anyone planning to visit. Battambang is a great destination to visit all year round. Each season offers its unique charm, so you can plan your trip anytime without worrying about extreme weather conditions.

Agenda:

Day One:

• The Bat Cave and Phnom Sampov 
• Local Foods
• Banan mountain and Temple: 

Day Two:

• Banan Bamboo Train Resort or Bamboo Train
• The Blue Lagoon in Samlot District
• Explore the thriving arts scene

Day one

We arrived after a fairly long drive from Phnom Penh. The road was good all the way and we stopped for a few tasty treats with the variety of local pop-up food stalls you can find along the way which vary with the season. Always an adventure!

Day One: Exploring Nature and Culture

Banan Mountain and Temple

We began our journey with a stop at Banan Mountain. Climbing the ancient steps to the top just before the heat of the mid-morning kicked in, we explored this well-preserved temple and enjoyed breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It was a peaceful and inspiring experience, providing a perfect start to the day.

Local Foods

During the day, we escaped the heat and headed to some local restaurants to indulge in some of Battambang’s culinary delights. We headed to White Rose Restaurant for the famous coconut cream dessert. We also tried the local rice noodles with pig stomach and the delicious dumpling noodle soup. The flavors were rich and authentic, offering a true taste of Battambang.

The Bat Cave and Phnom Sampov

Our adventure ended with a visit to Phnom Sampov which is located in the mountain above the Bat Cave, so a two-in-one destination for sure. Phnom Sampov itself offers stunning views and an opportunity to explore historical sites and temples. There is also plenty of monkeys to feed with bananas, but watch out, they are cheeky!

Just before dusk, we witnessed the mesmerizing spectacle of thousands of bats streaming out into the night sky. Thousands of bats come out in a never-ending stream to the backdrop of a beautiful setting sun, with the amazing – AND GIANT – rock-carved sculptures just meters away from the cave.

We then stayed the night in Battambang at Mlop Por, and there are some fantastic restaurants and bars which we visited that night. Check out more to do for Battambang nightlife here.

Day Two in Battambang: Unique Experiences

Banan Bamboo Train Resort or Bamboo Train

On the second day, we started with a ride on the traditional bamboo train. This unique experience is a fun way to see the countryside and feel the wind in your hair. Alternatively, you can visit the Banan Bamboo Train Resort for a more relaxed setting. Both options offer a memorable adventure.

The Blue Lagoon in Samlot District

Our second to last stop was the Blue Lagoon in Samlot District. This hidden gem is perfect for a refreshing swim. The crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation. It’s a great way to unwind after two days of exploring.

Visit the thriving arts scene!

We ended our trip by visiting a few of the local art spaces around town. These change frequently and it’s best to check more about Battambang province guide here or upcoming events and search the area here.

Summary: Local cuisine to try in Battambang Province, Cambodia!

One of the highlights of my trip was indulging in Battambang’s local cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes:

• Coconut Cream Dessert at White Rose Restaurant: This local dessert is a delightful treat that you shouldn’t miss.
• Rice Noodles with Pig Stomach: A traditional dish that offers a unique taste of Battambang’s culinary heritage.
• Dumpling Noodle Soup: A comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any time of the day.

Summary: Must see places in Battambang Province, Cambodia!

Battambang is rich in history and local culture. Here are some must-see attractions and activities:

1. The Bat Cave and Phnom Sampov : A visit to the bat cave at dusk is a mesmerizing experience as thousands of bats stream out into the night sky. Phnom Sampov offers stunning views and a chance to explore historical sites and temples.
2. Banan mountain and Temple: Climb the ancient steps to the top of Banan Mountain and explore the well-preserved temple. The view from the top is breathtaking.
3. Banan Bamboo Train Resort or Bamboo Train: Experience the traditional bamboo train ride, a fun and unique way to see the countryside. There’s also the Banan Bamboo Train Resort if you prefer a more relaxed setting.
4. The Blue Lagoon in Samlot District: A hidden gem perfect for a refreshing swim. The crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for relaxation.

Other Things to Do in the Area

If you have more time, there are several other activities and nearby places worth exploring:

• Visit Local Markets: Battambang’s markets are vibrant and bustling with activity. It’s a great place to experience local life and shop for unique souvenirs.

Top Tips for Travel to Battambang Province, Cambodia

Traveling to Battambang from Phnom Penh can be done in several ways:

1. Private Car or Rental Car: This offers the most flexibility and comfort. The journey takes around 5-6 hours from the capital or 2 hours from Siem Reap depending on traffic and road conditions.
2. Bus: A popular choice is the VIP Bus, which costs around $32 for a round trip from Phnom Penh or less from Siem Reap or Poipet. I recommend taking the night bus to save on hotel costs and maximize your travel time. Local buses are a cheaper alternative, costing about $20 for a round trip.
3. Train: For a more scenic and leisurely journey, consider taking the train. It takes around 8 hours to get there from Phnom Penh, providing a unique and picturesque experience of the Cambodian countryside.

Nearby Places to Visit from Battambang in Cambodia?

If you’re planning to extend your trip, consider visiting nearby Siem Reap:

• Angkor Wat: Just a few hours from Battambang, Siem Reap is home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Cambodia.
• Tonle Sap Lake: Explore the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and its floating villages.

My one-day trip to Battambang was an incredible journey filled with cultural experiences, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, enjoying local cuisine, or simply soaking in the rich history, Battambang offers something for everyone. Pack your bags and set out on an adventure to discover the charm of this beautiful province.

Find out more about places nearby with our full destination map of Cambodia, and plan your next journey!

Quick facts and tips:

	Traveled By:
	Taxi, bus, train, private car
	Location type:
	Well accessible and catered to tourists in most main areas
	Tourism attractions:
	Attractions, eco & wellness, culture and history, beautiful scenery
	Agenda:
	Day One: The Bat Cave and Phnom Sampov  Local Foods Banan mountain and Temple:  Day Two: Banan Bamboo Train Resort or Bamboo Train The Blue Lagoon in Samlot District Explore the thriving arts scene

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Kratie in Cambodia, a stunning province situated on the north-eastern side of the country, has always been on the to-do list. Luckily in early May, just before the rainy season, I got the chance to explore, so here’s my recommended to-do list when visiting Kratie province, Cambodia

Day One of my recommended Kratie Province trip!

So I cheated a little bit here! I got the night bus from Phnom Penh – which is technically the day before day one – just. However, this is a great way to not lose time during the days you are there. I paid $12 for the Vireak Buntham hotel bus from Phnom Penh (the pickup station is just north of Wat Phnom – available on Google) and left at 9:15 pm arriving at 3 am in Kratie. 

Given the time of arrival, I booked directly with the Soyra Guesthouse to make sure they’d be open. The number was on Google and the receptionist spoke great English. I arrived in a SILENT Kratie at 3 am, leaving the bus on my own as it continued on to Strung Treng further northeastern towards the Laos border afterward. After a 3-minute walk, I got to the guesthouse, right on the banks of the Mekong, and got my head down until 7 am just in time to watch a beautiful sunrise at their rooftop cafe.

I can’t recommend this place enough! Great staff, a great location, and good budget food & drink. They also had lots of information about local tourist excursions, books, board games, and a Kratie-influenced cocktail menu that it would have been rude not to try (Go for the Kratie Style Gin Fizz!).

After sunrise, we headed over to the ferry to take us to the adjacent Koh Trong Island, which conveniently runs back and forth every 10 minutes or so from 6 am to 6 pm (Though don’t look for a timetable, it seems to be as and when!).

On arrival, we had a short swim in the mighty Mekong River to cool down. With it being May it was already 32oc. Anyone who knows me knows I hate wearing a hat but I cannot recommend one enough for a day in the Katie, Cambodian sun. I’m also completely sure there are more fashionable hat choices than my quasi-fisherman get-up. 

Top Tip: Wear a hat for the sun!

Next, we came to the eco-tourism center, a short walk up the beach from the ferry drop-off point in the dry season, or during the rainy season probably immediately as you get off, as the Mekong starts to bloat to 45% more from May onwards! There is a map full of activities, from Mango and Pamelo farms, homestays, and a little bit of an underwhelming temple but all in all a beautiful island. 

You can travel around by motorbike for only $2 (moto in Khmer), but I opted to do it in style on a horse-drawn cart for $10 – which took you in a 7km ring around the islands. The receptionist didn’t understand English, but the sign helped to point at what you wanted. 

Mid-horse-drawn journey, we stopped at the northern resort on the island and as it was in season, enjoyed fresh mango which was falling from the trees and ready to eat – amazing. Finally, we visited the temple at the other end of the island where we watched the two split parts of the Mekong join together and caught the final ferry home for sunset at 6 pm.

We then tried a few local food spots and local beers. The local food was nice, especially the beef biltong – GET KHMER NAME – We also tried a few more obscure beers, including one called ‘Trinking’ which was labeled ‘Belgian 1663 – which definitely needs to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Day 2 of my recommended Kratie Province trip:

We woke early for 7:30 departure north and although our hostel provided a dolphin experience tour, we opted to ask a local tuk-tuk driver and with 4 people I met up with in the hostel, we got the price from $40 total to $30. The ride was a bit bumpy, but the views of the frankly huge Mekong, stretching what seemed 10km across were amazing, and also every Khmer child waving and saying hello is always super heart-warming. 

On arrival, it’s $8 per person for a group of 4, which increases with fewer people or decreases with more. There were no departure times, and as soon as we paid it’s first come first serve on the boats for a 30-minute ride out onto the river to see the critically endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, the last place they are alive in Cambodia and second in the world. 

We then headed another 20km up north for the 100 Pillar Temple, got some food overlooking the Mekong again and after another dip, we headed back. In the evening, we went out and did some fishing riverside in the Mekong, and spoke to some Khmer families in broken Khmer on our behalves and broke English on theirs, who all head to just south of the ferry for an evening swim, least in May at the end of the dry season for the 40+ degree heat! The cool of the river is certainly satisfying even if you don’t get in it!

Finally, transport back to Phnom Penh was by Virak Buntham’s ‘luxury’ mini-bus ($15.5 each), who have a collection point in central Kratie. Complete with charging points and executive-style seating, while not the most spacious, these buses are the next best thing to a private taxi. We arrived in around 4 hours.

Kratie has charm and natural allure. So pack your hat, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore this Cambodian gem! Find out more general information in our full guide here:

Kratie Province Gallery

Quick facts and tips:

	Traveled By:
	In Cambodia: Budget day-time minibus services from major cities are around $14-18.  Night buses (called hotel buses) are cheaper at around $12. Private Taxis range from $70-100 one-way.
	Location type:
	Rural, eco
	Tourism attractions:
	Eco, exploration, nature, art & culture
	Agenda:
	Day One: 3 am: Arrival and check-in 6 am: Sunrise spectacle at Soyra Guesthouse Morning: Ferry to Koh Trong Island Afternoon: Island exploration via horse-drawn cart Evening: Local food and obscure beer escapades Day Two: 7:30 am: Tuk-tuk to meet the dolphins Morning: Dolphin watching on the Mekong Afternoon: Visit to the 100 Pillar Temple Evening: Riverside fishing and mingling with locals!