Cambodian Cities: What Are the Biggest and Must-Visit Cities of Cambodia?

Cambodia remains a mystery to many travelers, apart from a few famous sites. Among the biggest and must-visit cities there, there might be a few you haven't heard of. Every Cambodian city has a unique experience to offer. Get to know how to have the best trip before you go.

The Capital City of Cambodia Is Phnom Penh, also the Largest & Most Developed City of Cambodia

Calling Phnom Penh the largest city in Cambodia doesn't capture how large it is compared to other cities. The capital is 10 times bigger than Siem Reap, the second-largest city. Its population has made it a center for trade and investment and helped the city grow to become the most developed in the country.

Its rich history can be seen today in the blend of modern buildings and ancient temples, like Wat Phnom, dating back to the 1300s. The Royal Palace complex and Silver Pagoda house national treasures. The National Museum of Cambodia preserves the country's cultural heritage, and the Mekong Riverfront is a picturesque area of cafes and parks where visitors can unwind.

Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia

The 3 Biggest Cities in Cambodia: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh & Takeo

Phnom Penh is Cambodia's single largest metropolis. It's located in the country's south-central region, at the meeting point of the Tonle Sap, Mekong, and Bassac rivers. With this strategic location and being home to 14% of the country's population, Phnom Penh is the hub for politics, economics, and city culture. It's not the only big city in Cambodia, though.

Siem Reap is the second-largest city and possibly more famous than the capital. Its enduring fame comes from being the gateway to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, attracting over two million visitors every year. Siem Reap has built up its tourism infrastructure and can offer everything from authentic backpacking experiences to modern, luxury travel.

Takeo is in the southeastern part of Cambodia, bordering Vietnam. It's known as an easygoing place with a lot of natural beauty. The history of Takeo dates back to the ancient Funan Kingdom, with archeological sites dating to as early as 400 BCE. Angkor Borei and Phnom Da are places to see these ancient sites, with the oldest standing Khmer stone temple from the 6th century. Takeo's natural beauty can be enjoyed at places like Tonle Bati, a serene and clear lake, and the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, where visitors can see elephants, tigers, and monkeys.

6 Days Best of Cambodia Tour Package

Siem Reap - Phnom Penh

The Most Visited Tourist City: Siem Reap, Home to the Angkor Wat & Must-Visit Place for any of Cambodia Trips

There are many great places to visit in Cambodia, but if there's one you can't miss, it's Siem Reap. Angkor Archaeological Park, home to Angkor Wat, is the singular archeological attraction in the region. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a massive complex of temples, stone carvings, and ruins. Angkor Wat is a masterpiece of Khmer architecture with its intricate designs, courtyards, and reflecting pools.

The city is home to vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. The pub street and night market are great places to socialize, enjoy Cambodian street food, and shop for local handicrafts. Traditional and contemporary cultural performances take place all over the city, and museums like the Angkor National Museum and the Cambodian Landmine Museum give insights into historical and modern life in Cambodia.

Cambodia Pub Street at dusk

Top 4 Tourist Cities of Cambodia: Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, & Sihanoukville

Four cities stand out as top destinations in Cambodia, offering a range of experiences that will help you appreciate the country's diversity.

Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a must-visit city. It is world-famous for the Angkor Archaeological Park and popular for its authentic cultural vibe.

Must-See Places in Siem Reap:
1. Angkor Archaeological Park: Home to the Angkor Wat temple complex, the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, and the pink sandstone carvings of Banteay Srei
2. Tonle Sap Lake: The place to see river culture in the floating villages, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery
3. Pub Street and Night Markets: A bustling area of delicious street food, vibrant Cambodian markets, and local city culture

Battambang
Battambang is the best place to see the blend of colonial and historical architecture and scenic countryside villages.

Must-See Places in Battambang:
1. Bamboo Train: Take a scenic ride past rice fields and rural villages on an improvised train that travels between bamboo platforms.
2. Colonial Architecture: The city center is home to many well-preserved French colonial buildings with distinctive architecture. The Battambang Museum is a good place to learn more about the city's history.
3. Wat Ek Phnom: It is an ancient temple dating back to the 11th century. Its intricate carvings and sculptures remain an important religious site today.

Bamboo train getting through the green bush

Phnom Penh
The capital and modern heart of the country, Phnom Penh blends traditional and modern culture:

Must-See Places in Phnom Penh:
1. Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: The official residence of the King of Cambodia is a remarkable display of stunning and ornate architecture. The Silver Pagoda gets its name from the silver floor tiles and is home to a vast collection of Buddhist statues and cultural treasures.
2. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Memorial sites to the tragic history of life under the Khmer Rouge. Exhibitions and audio guides will inform you about this period of Cambodian history.
3. Riverside Promenade: The scenic riverside promenade has places to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere while taking in sunset views of the Tonle Sap, Mekong, and Bassac rivers

Sihanoukville
Sihanoukville is the place to go and experience beaches, islands, and nightlife.

Must-See Places in Sihanoukville:
1. Ochheuteal Beach: One of the most popular beaches, it's known for its clear waters and golden beaches. The beach is a great place to relax, swim, or join in water sports like jet skiing or kayaking.
2. Koh Rong Island: 25km off the coast, the island is home to pristine beaches, lush jungles, and clear waters. Snorkeling, diving, or hiking the interior are popular activities there.
3. Sihanoukville Waterfall: 7km northeast of the city, the waterfall is a picturesque spot for a cool swim surrounded by the lush jungle.

Catch a view of blue water and clear sky on the ochheuteal beach

More Information about Cambodia Cities

1. Kampot is another city worth visiting. Surrounded by the Elephant Mountains and famous for its pepper plantations, it has excellent cuisine and beautiful natural surroundings.
2. Poipet is a border town near Thailand. It's one of the busiest border crossings in Southeast Asia and is famous for its casinos and nightlife.
3. Kep is a small coastal down with excellent seafood and a good jumping-off point for island hopping. Nearby islands like Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island) and Koh Po are serene getaways.
4. The fastest way to travel between cities in Cambodia is to fly. Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, and Siem Reap have airports serving domestic routes. For other cities, busses and private cars can be booked.
5. Some of the best places are far away from any city. Temples like Preah Vihear and Koh Ker are well off the beaten track but offer a unique perspective on local history.

10 Days Cambodian Panoramic Overland Tour

Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnom Penh - Sihanoukville - Koh Rong Island

Conclusion

With different attractions and distinct local cultures and histories, the must-visit cities of Cambodia have something for every kind of traveler. Get to know the biggest and must-visit cities of Cambodia to plan your perfect tour there. Check out our Cambodian tours, or contact us to plan a custom itinerary.