10 Days Thailand & Cambodia Beaches Itinerary
Experience the best of Southeast Asia with this 10-day adventure, hopping between the cultural heart of Bangkok, the idyllic beaches of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, and the historical wonders of Siem Reap, ending with the laid-back vibes of Cambodia's Sihanoukville and Koh Rong. This budget-friendly itinerary focuses on maximizing your time and immersing yourself in the local culture and natural beauty.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$800-1200
Best Time
November to March for dry season and pleasant temperatures
Activities
60
Daily Avg
$100/day
Cities
Bangkok (3d), Koh Samui (1d), Koh Phangan (1d), Koh Rong (4d), Sihanoukville (1d)
Pace
Fast
This trip combines the vibrant culture and bustling city life of Bangkok with the serene beaches of Thailand and Cambodia. It offers a diverse experience, from exploring ancient temples to relaxing on pristine shores, all within a relatively short timeframe.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 12 must-have experiences
Cultural Immersion
Day 1: Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Beach Relaxation
Day 3: Chaweng Beach
Island Exploration
Day 8: Snorkeling Trip to Nearby Islands
Historical Sites
Day 7: Explore Angkor Thom
Local Markets
Day 1: Explore the Night Market
Water Activities
Day 8: Snorkeling Trip to Nearby Islands
Sunset Views
Day 5: Sunset at Amsterdam Bar
Cuisine Exploration
Day 2: Try Pad Thai from a street vendor in Bangkok
Temples
Day 1: Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Nature
Day 4: Boat Trip to Ang Thong Marine Park
City Tour
e.g., Bangkok Grand Palace, Royal Palace Phnom Penh
Local Experience
Day 1: Explore the Night Market
Thailand and Cambodia's beach regions offer a delightful fusion of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and vibrant spices. Expect bold flavors, fragrant herbs, and a mix of traditional dishes adapted to the coastal environment. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, culinary adventures await around every corner.
Must-Try Dishes
A hot and sour soup with prawns, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili. Its complex flavors are both refreshing and invigorating, perfect for the tropical climate.
📍 Street food stalls, restaurants, especially along the beaches
A creamy coconut fish curry steamed in banana leaves. The delicate flavors of the fish combine beautifully with the rich coconut milk and aromatic spices.
📍 Restaurants in coastal towns like Sihanoukville and Kep, often served in traditional Khmer restaurants.
Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a sweet and tangy sauce. A classic Thai dish known for its balance of flavors and textures.
📍 Street food stalls, night markets, and restaurants throughout Thailand's beach areas.
Stir-fried beef cubes served with a lime and pepper dipping sauce. A simple but flavorful dish that showcases the quality of local ingredients.
📍 Restaurants in Cambodia's beach towns and cities, often found in casual eateries.
Food Neighborhoods
Known for its Sino-Portuguese architecture and authentic Thai cuisine.
Known for fresh seafood and beachside BBQ restaurants.
Known for its diverse range of restaurants catering to tourists with international and Thai options.
Known for its pepper farms and delicious seafood dishes incorporating Kampot pepper.
Vegetarian options are increasingly available, especially in tourist areas. Look for dishes with tofu or vegetables. Vegan options might be limited but can be found with some searching or by asking for modifications. Indicate allergies clearly, as cross-contamination can occur. Halal food is less common in beach areas; it's best to inquire at specific restaurants.
Use a spoon and fork for most dishes; chopsticks are generally used for noodle dishes. It's polite to share dishes when dining with a group. Avoid pointing with your chopsticks. The bill is usually brought to the table after you finish eating. Tipping is not always expected but appreciated for good service (around 5-10%).
Loy Krathong
NovemberFestival of Lights, with floating lanterns and decorations. Can be crowded.
Songkran
AprilThai New Year, celebrated with water fights. Expect disruptions and higher prices.
Water Festival
NovemberCambodian festival celebrating the end of the monsoon season, with boat races and festivities.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Take the Airport Rail Link to Phaya Thai station, then a taxi or bus to your accommodation. (Cost: ~$5-7)$15
02:00 PM - Check into Hostel/Guesthouse
Check into a pre-booked hostel or guesthouse near Khao San Road or Sukhumvit to save on transport and be close to amenities.
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- 🚆Take the BTS Skytrain to Saphan Taksin station, then take a Chao Phraya Express Boat to Wat Arun pier. (Cost: ~$1-2)$5
03:00 PM - Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
Visit the stunning Wat Arun, located on the Chao Phraya River. Admire its intricate decorations and climb to the top for panoramic views.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walk from Wat Arun pier or take a short taxi ride. (Cost: ~$2-3)$6
05:00 PM - Wat Pho (Reclining Buddha)
Explore Wat Pho, home to the impressive Reclining Buddha and a renowned massage school.
Book on Klook - 🚶Walking distance$5
07:00 PM - Dinner at a Street Food Stall
Enjoy delicious and affordable Thai street food near Wat Pho or along the river.
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- 🚆Depending on the market, take a taxi or the BTS Skytrain.$5
08:00 PM - Explore the Night Market
Wander through a local night market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for souvenirs or try local snacks.
- 🚶Taxi
Khao San Road/Sukhumvit
Khao San Road is great for budget travelers and nightlife, while Sukhumvit offers more modern amenities and easy access to transportation.
📅 Best Time to Visit
November to March for dry season and pleasant temperatures.
During the peak season, expect clear skies, warm temperatures, and low humidity. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the islands.
November to March is the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather for beach activities and island hopping.
Songkran (Thai New Year) in April can affect travel and accommodation availability. Khmer New Year in April also impacts Cambodia.
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
150-250 USDAccommodation
15-30 USD per nightFood
15-25 USD per dayActivities
100-200 USDUtilize local buses and ferries instead of private taxis or speedboats where possible.
Opt for guesthouses or budget-friendly hotels away from the main tourist areas.
Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls for delicious and affordable meals.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Thai and Khmer.
- Bargain respectfully when shopping at local markets.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
- 1Lightweight clothing
- 2Swimsuit
- 3Sunscreen
- 4Insect repellent
- 5Universal adapter
Check visa requirements for Thailand and Cambodia
Verify entry requirements for your nationality well in advance; some may need an e-visa or visa-on-arrival, while others are visa-free.
Book international flights
Aim to book 3-6 months ahead, especially if traveling during the peak season (Nov-Feb), for better prices and availability.
Reserve accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, resorts)
Book 2-3 months ahead for popular beach destinations, particularly during peak season or holidays, to secure desired lodging.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
Essential for covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays. Purchase as soon as your flights are booked.
Arrange major tours or excursions
Popular tours (e.g., island hopping, diving, Angkor Wat sunrise) can sell out quickly, especially during high season. Book 1-2 months in advance.
Book internal flights, ferries, or long-distance buses
For inter-island travel in Thailand or cross-country journeys in Cambodia, booking a few days to a week ahead is advisable, especially during peak times.
Pre-arrange airport transfers (optional)
Can provide peace of mind upon arrival, especially after long flights or late at night. Your hotel can often assist.
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 app or website (download before arrival)
📍 Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), Don Mueang Airport (DMK), or AIS stores in major cities.
📍 Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), Siem Reap International Airport (REP), or Smart stores in major cities.
📍 Online rental with airport pickup or delivery to your hotel.
WiFi is widely available in hotels, guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Quality can vary; higher-end hotels generally offer faster and more reliable connections. Public WiFi hotspots are also available in some cities, but security can be a concern.
Useful Apps
Download offline maps and translations before you arrive to save on data. Check with your accommodation about WiFi availability and speed. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable connectivity, especially if you plan to travel to more remote areas. Be aware of roaming charges if you don't have a local SIM. Always use a VPN when connecting to public WiFi to protect your data.
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
Generally safe, but be aware of petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. Exercise caution when swimming and follow local advice.
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.
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How was this itinerary?
The best time to visit is from November to March during the dry season. Expect pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity, perfect for beach activities and island hopping.
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