"Best Day Trips in Cambodia You Can Take with Air Cambodia

Cambodia is way more than just Angkor Wat (though, yes, it’s magical). If you're already in the country and itching to see more without packing and unpacking every night, day trips are your best friend. Luckily, Air Cambodia makes zipping between cities super easy — think quick flights, scenic views, and zero long bus rides. 

Here are some of the best day trips in Cambodia that you can do with Air Cambodia — with all the juicy details to make it happen:

1. Siem Reap → Phnom Penh: Capital City Culture

Flight time: ~50 mins
Perfect for: History buffs, city explorers, and anyone who loves riverside dining.

Morning:

  • Catch an early flight from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (Air Cambodia has a 7:30–8:30 am option most days).

  • Once you land, hop in a Grab or tuk-tuk to The Royal Palace — it opens at 8am.

  • Wander through the Silver Pagoda, marvel at the intricate Khmer architecture, and grab an iced coffee at Brown Coffee nearby.

Midday:

  • Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum — it’s a tough but important experience.

  • Walk it off at the Russian Market. Grab souvenirs or just people-watch with a coconut in hand.

  • Lunch at Romdeng — amazing Khmer food in a colonial-style house; plus they support a great cause.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Wat Phnom, the little hill that gave the city its name.

  • If you’ve got time, cruise along the Tonle Sap River for a breezy hour before heading back to the airport.

  • Fly back to Siem Reap by 6 or 7pm, just in time for dinner on Pub Street.

2. Phnom Penh → Sihanoukville: Beach Mode Activated 🏖️

Flight time: ~45 mins
Perfect for: Sun-chasers, seafood lovers, and folks who want a quick dip in the ocean.

Morning:

  • Grab the early 7am flight from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville.

  • Land and take a quick ride to Otres Beach (less touristy, more chill).

  • Rent a beach chair, slather on sunscreen, and let the ocean do its thing.

Midday:

  • Order a seafood platter or fresh grilled fish from a beachfront shack (they’re all good, honestly).

  • Take a walk along the shore or get adventurous with jet-ski rentals or paddleboarding.

Afternoon:

  • Squeeze in a visit to Wat Leu on a hill overlooking the city.

  • Grab a smoothie or coffee near the Golden Lions Roundabout, then head back to the airport.

  • Air Cambodia usually has a 5pm-ish flight back to Phnom Penh.

Bonus tip: If you’re a beach junkie, this one’s very worth it — just don’t forget your towel and some flip-flops.

3. Siem Reap → Battambang: Charming Countryside & Bamboo Trains 🚂

Flight time: ~35 mins (yes, it's that quick!)
Perfect for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers, art lovers, and foodies.

Morning:

  • Early flight from Siem Reap to Battambang, then hop on a tuk-tuk straight to the Bamboo Train.

  • It’s a quirky ride — a flatbed "train" powered by a small engine that zips through the countryside.

Midday:

  • Grab lunch at Jaan Bai, a social enterprise restaurant with amazing Khmer fusion dishes.

  • Visit Phare Ponleu Selpak, the original home of the famous Cambodian circus — if there’s a daytime performance, don’t miss it.

Afternoon:

  • Walk around the colonial-style town center. It’s small, artsy, and full of charm.

  • Check out a local market for snacks (try the dried mango or lotus seed snacks).

  • Head back to the airport for your late afternoon flight back to Siem Reap.

Quick Tips for Smooth Day Trips with Air Cambodia ✈️

  • Book flights early — some routes have limited flights per day.

  • Travel light. A daypack is more than enough. Most local airports are small and chill.

  • Use the Grab App or arrange tuk-tuks beforehand when possible.

  • Double-check flight times, especially on holidays or weekends.

  • Keep your phone charged — Google Maps + translation apps are your best buddies.

Final Thoughts

Cambodia’s beauty lies in its diversity — sleepy towns, buzzing cities, untouched beaches, and rich history. Thanks to Air Cambodia, you don’t need to miss a thing, even if you’re short on time. These day trips are perfect for making the most of your stay, whether you’re based in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, or just craving a mini adventure.

So pack your sunnies, charge your camera, and go explore.

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