10 Days Thailand & Cambodia Itinerary
This 10-day itinerary explores the highlights of Thailand and Cambodia, focusing on cultural immersion and historical sites. It balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, all while staying within a budget-friendly range.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$600-1000
Best Time
The best time to visit Thailand and Cambodia is generally from November to February, which is the cool and dry season with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity
Activities
40
Daily Avg
$80/day
Cities
Bangkok (3d), Siem Reap (3d), Phnom Penh (4d)
Pace
Moderate
Thailand and Cambodia offer a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty, all at a budget-friendly price. From bustling cityscapes to ancient temples and serene beaches, there's something for every traveler.
Your itinerary covers 7 of 11 must-have experiences
Ancient Temple Complex Exploration
Day 5: Angkor Wat
Vibrant Floating & Local Markets
Day 2: Chatuchak Weekend Market (if applicable)
Authentic Street Food Adventure
Day 2: Lunch at a Street Food Stall
Tropical Island & Beach Retreat
Day 1: Dinner at Arun Residence
Iconic City Skyline & Rooftop Bar
e.g., Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower (Bangkok, Thailand), Octave Rooftop Lounge & Bar (Bangkok, Thailand)
Sacred Royal Palace & Grand Temples
Day 1: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Ethical Elephant Sanctuary Visit
e.g., Elephant Nature Park (Chiang Mai, Thailand), Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (Phetchaburi, Thailand)
Traditional Cooking Class
e.g., Blue Elephant Cooking School (Bangkok, Thailand), Asia Scenic Thai Cooking School (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
River & Lake Cultural Cruise
Day 1: Explore Asiatique The Riverfront
Awe-Inspiring Cave & Mountain Temple
Day 1: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Immersive Cultural Performance
e.g., Apsara Dance Show (Siem Reap, Cambodia), Muay Thai Boxing Match (Bangkok, Thailand)
Thai and Cambodian cuisines are vibrant and flavorful, blending sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements. Expect fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and bold use of spices. Street food is a cornerstone of the culinary experience, offering affordable and authentic flavors.
Must-Try Dishes
Stir-fried rice noodles with tofu, shrimp (or chicken), bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. A quintessential Thai dish.
📍 Street food stalls, restaurants throughout Thailand
A creamy and aromatic curry made with green chili paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, eggplant, and basil. Usually served with rice.
📍 Restaurants specializing in Thai cuisine
A hot and sour soup with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili, and mushrooms. Shrimp (Tom Yum Goong) is a popular variation.
📍 Restaurants, street food stalls (especially in Bangkok)
A creamy coconut curry cooked in banana leaves, often with fish, chicken, or tofu. A national dish of Cambodia.
📍 Restaurants serving Khmer cuisine, especially in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Food Neighborhoods
Known for diverse Chinese-Thai cuisine and street food
Known for Khmer cuisine and street food options
Known for Northern Thai specialties and street food
Known for upscale dining and international cuisine
Vegetarian options are generally available but require careful inquiry. 'Jay' in Thai signifies vegetarian food. Vegan options are less common but growing. Halal food is available in Muslim areas. Specify allergies clearly when ordering. Cross-contamination is possible, especially with street food.
Use a serving spoon when taking food from communal dishes. Chopsticks are typically used for noodle dishes, while forks and spoons are common for rice-based meals. It's polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate. Avoid pointing with chopsticks. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service in restaurants (5-10%).
Songkran
AprilThai New Year, celebrated with water fights. Expect closures and transportation disruptions.
Pchum Ben
September/OctoberCambodian Ancestor's Day. Many locals visit their hometowns, causing increased traffic.
Loy Krathong
NovemberFestival of Lights in Thailand. Beautiful lantern displays and river ceremonies.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from the airport to your hostel/guesthouse in Khao San Road area.$10
2:00 PM - Check into Hostel/Guesthouse
Settle into your accommodation near the Khao San Road area. Many budget-friendly options are available.
🏨Create Custom ItineraryAdd your hotel booking
Search and add hotels to see on maps
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Khao San Road to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn).$3
3:30 PM - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Take a ferry across the Chao Phraya River to visit the stunning Wat Arun. Climb the steep steps for panoramic views. Arrive early to beat the crowds.
Book on Klook - 🚶Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Wat Arun to Arun Residence.$8
6:00 PM - Dinner at Arun Residence
Enjoy authentic Thai food at this riverside restaurant with stunning views of Wat Arun at sunset. Try the Pad Thai.
🍽️Create Custom ItineraryAdd restaurants for Dinner
Get personalized restaurant recommendations
Create a free custom itinerary to add hotels and restaurants
- 🚶Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Arun Residence to Asiatique The Riverfront.FREE
7:30 PM - Explore Asiatique The Riverfront
Take a free shuttle boat to Asiatique, a night market with shops, restaurants, and a Ferris wheel.
Book on Klook
Khao San Road
Budget-friendly, lively atmosphere, close to many attractions.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Thailand and Cambodia is generally from November to February, which is the cool and dry season with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. This is peak tourist season, leading to more crowds and higher prices. March to May is the hot season, with scorching temperatures. June to October marks the rainy season, characterized by tropical downpours, but these are often short bursts, leaving plenty of sunshine and lush landscapes with fewer crowds.
Expect warm, sunny days and comfortable evenings. Rainfall is minimal during this period, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
November to February is the cool and dry season, ideal for travel with pleasant temperatures and lower humidity.
Songkran (Thai New Year) in April and Pchum Ben (Ancestor's Day) in Cambodia in September/October can affect travel.
Getting Around
BTS/MRT in Bangkok; songthaews and tuk-tuks elsewhere
Rabbit Card (BTS) / MRT Card
Use Grab for fair-priced rides. Always agree on tuk-tuk fare before getting in.
Travel
$150 (Flights & buses)Accommodation
$150 (Hostels & guesthouses)Food
$200 (Street food & local restaurants)Activities
$100 (Entrance fees & tours)Embrace street food! It's delicious, authentic, and incredibly cheap. Look for stalls popular with locals for the best quality and value.
Utilize local transportation options like public buses, shared vans, or ride-hailing apps (Grab/Bolt) over private taxis to save significantly on travel costs.
Indulge in an authentic Thai massage or a luxurious spa treatment to unwind and rejuvenate after days of exploring.
Consider a reputable and ethical elephant sanctuary visit (Thailand) or a hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat (Cambodia) for unforgettable experiences.
Always agree on a price *before* getting into a tuk-tuk, taxi, or purchasing items at local markets to avoid misunderstandings and ensure fair pricing.
Look for 'set lunch' or 'express meal' deals at restaurants, especially outside of peak dining hours, as they often offer excellent value.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered), remove your shoes before entering temples or private homes, and never point your feet at people or sacred objects.
- Bargaining is common in markets and with tuk-tuk drivers; always negotiate politely and with a smile, but accept that prices for tourists may be slightly higher.
- Always drink bottled water and avoid tap water. Be cautious with ice, and ensure street food is cooked fresh and served hot to prevent stomach issues.
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Bolt for fair and transparent pricing, especially for longer journeys or late-night travel, to avoid overpaying.
- Always carry some local currency (Thai Baht and Cambodian Riel/USD) for street vendors, small purchases, and places that don't accept cards.
- Be aware of common tourist scams, such as 'fake' temple closures or unsolicited 'helpful' strangers. Trust your instincts and politely decline unwanted offers.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Thai and Khmer ('hello', 'thank you', 'how much') – locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your interactions.
- Carry a photocopy or digital image of your passport and visa, and keep your original documents secure in your accommodation.
- 1Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen) to stay comfortable in the tropical heat and humidity.
- 2Modest clothing for temple visits (long skirts/pants, shirts that cover shoulders and knees). A sarong or light scarf is versatile.
- 3Comfortable walking shoes or sandals that are easy to slip on and off for temple entries and daily exploration.
- 4Sunscreen (high SPF), a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for protection against the intense sun.
- 5Insect repellent (containing DEET or Picaridin) to ward off mosquitoes, especially in rural areas or at dusk.
- 6A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste; bottled water refills are often available.
- 7A small, lightweight backpack or day bag for daily essentials, tours, and market purchases.
- 8Basic first-aid kit including pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antiseptic wipes, and band-aids.
- 9A light rain jacket or compact umbrella, especially if traveling during the rainy season (June-October).
- 10A portable power bank to keep your phone and other devices charged throughout the day.
Visa Requirements
Research visa requirements for Thailand and Cambodia based on your nationality well in advance (e.g., Cambodia eVisa, Thailand visa exemption/visa on arrival for many). Apply as needed, typically 2-3 months prior.
International Flights
Book international flights as early as possible, especially for travel during peak season (Nov-Feb), to secure better fares. Aim for 3-6 months in advance.
Accommodation
Reserve your accommodations, particularly in popular destinations like Bangkok, Siem Reap, or island resorts, a few months ahead to ensure availability and preferred rates. 2-4 months prior.
Angkor Wat Pass & Tour
Plan and consider pre-booking a reputable guide or driver for your Angkor Wat complex visit, especially for sunrise tours, to ensure availability and a smooth experience. 1-2 months prior.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance immediately after booking flights/accommodation to cover potential medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Domestic Flights/Trains/Buses
If planning internal travel between cities or islands, book domestic transport in advance, particularly for popular routes or during high season. 1-2 months prior.
Airport Transfers
Arrange reliable airport transfers, especially if arriving late at night or in a new city, for peace of mind and fixed pricing. 1-2 weeks prior.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo website or app
📍 Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK) in Bangkok, AIS stores
📍 Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Smart stores
📍 Online rental services, airport kiosks
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in tourist areas. Quality can vary, with slower speeds in rural areas. Some public areas offer free WiFi, but security may be a concern.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for the best data rates and coverage. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Be mindful of data usage when streaming videos or downloading large files. Always use a VPN when connecting to public WiFi networks.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
Two round pins (Europlug)
Three round pins (Thai)
220V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% at sit-down restaurants if no service charge
Round up to the nearest 10 baht
20–50 baht per bag for porters
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Leave change at casual eateries.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Thailand and Cambodia are generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against scams.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
191
1669
199
1155 (English-speaking)
Tourist police (1155) is the best option for visitors
Payments
Cash preferred at markets, street food, and small shops
Widely accepted at malls, hotels, and mid-range+ restaurants
Growing acceptance; PromptPay QR codes common
ATMs dispense 1000-baht notes; break them at 7-Eleven. Carry small bills for street vendors.
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is during the cool and dry season, from November to February. The weather is pleasant, with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring.
Related Itineraries
Customize This Trip
Get this itinerary tailored to YOUR exact dates, preferences, and budget.
- Personalized for your dates
- Weather-aware recommendations
- Offline access
- Real-time pricing
- Budget tracking
No sign-up required
Quick Actions
Trip Summary
Want a Personalized Version?
Get this itinerary customized for your exact travel dates, with weather-aware recommendations and real-time pricing.
Create My Custom Itinerary60sBrowse by travel style: