Cambodia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s affordable, full of history, and offers incredible food and culture. You don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great experience here.
Accommodation
Hostels
Hostels are everywhere in Cambodia, and they’re super cheap. You can find dorm beds starting from $3-6 USD per night. If you’re looking for a private room, expect to pay around $10-15 USD. The quality is pretty good, and most hostels include free Wi-Fi, common areas, and sometimes free breakfast.
Guesthouses
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If you prefer more privacy, guesthouses offer a great value. Prices for guesthouses range from $10-20 USD per night for a private room, often with air conditioning, hot water, and Wi-Fi. The further you stay from the major tourist spots, the cheaper the accommodation tends to be.
Negotiate
If you’re staying longer or booking directly in person, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. Cambodians are friendly, and they often give you a price break if it’s low season or you’re staying multiple nights.
Food
Street Food
The cheapest (and perhaps tastiest) food in Cambodia is found on the streets. Street food like noodle soups, skewers, and fried rice will only run you $1-2 USD per meal. These spots are mostly safe to eat at, but stick to busy ones where food is freshly cooked to avoid getting sick.
Local Restaurants
Small, local restaurants outside tourist areas are also an excellent option. A typical meal costs around $3-5 USD. Try dishes like “amok,” a traditional coconut-based fish curry, or “bai sach chrouk,” which is grilled pork with rice.
Avoid Eating in Tourist Areas
Restaurants in tourist-heavy areas like Siem Reap or near Angkor Wat can be more expensive. Look for places where locals eat if you want more authentic and cheaper meals. You’ll not only save money but also have a more authentic experience.
Self-Catering
If you’re staying where there’s a kitchen, doing some of your own cooking can save a lot. Markets throughout Cambodia sell fresh fruits, veggies, and meat for incredibly cheap. However, cooking can be a bit of a hassle with all the delicious and cheap food available outside!
Transportation
Getting Around Cities
Tuk-tuks are the main form of transportation within cities. You’ll need to negotiate before getting in. A short ride should cost around $1-2 USD, depending on your bargaining skills. Grab (which is Southeast Asia’s version of Uber) is also starting to gain popularity in larger cities, and prices are reasonable without the need to bargain.
Buses
To travel between cities, buses are your cheapest option. A bus ride from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap costs around $6-10 USD and takes about 6-7 hours. Buses run frequently between all main towns and are comfortable, with air conditioning and sometimes Wi-Fi.
Motobikes
If you’re looking for more freedom, renting a motorbike is cheap and fun. Expect to pay around $6-10 USD per day. You’ll need to drive carefully, especially in city traffic where the rules are… loose, to say the least.
Bicycles
Bicycling is another affordable and eco-friendly way to get around, especially in smaller towns. Rentals usually cost around $2-3 USD per day. Angkor Wat, in particular, is a popular place to explore on two wheels.
Attractions
Angkor Wat
Siem Reap’s iconic Angkor Wat is a must-see, but it’s not free. The entrance fee is $37 USD for a one-day pass, $62 for three days, or $72 for a full week. If you’re really tight on cash, you can view some of the temples from nearby roads, though paying to enter is well worth it.
National Museums
In Phnom Penh, you can visit the National Museum for about $10 USD. It’s a great way to dive into Cambodia’s storied history and ancient cultures. English explanations are provided, and the museum is close to the Royal Palace and riverside, so you can combine these sights into one cheap day out.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Phnom Penh’s Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) is a difficult but essential place to visit. The entrance fee is $5 USD, with an additional $3 for an audio guide. It offers a deep insight into Cambodia’s tragic past and is a significant stop for any tourist.
Free Things To Do
Markets are numerous and free to wander. Markets like Central Market in Phnom Penh or Old Market in Siem Reap are cultural experiences and great places to try snacks and interact with locals.
Temples outside the Angkor complex, like Wat Phnom in Phnom Penh, are another free or low-cost activity (entrance is just $1 USD).
Budget-Friendly Destinations in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
The capital, Phnom Penh, offers history, culture, and cheap food. The Royal Palace, Choeung Ek Killing Fields, and Tuol Sleng Museum are highlights. Budget accommodation and affordable meals make it easy to stay long without spending much.
Siem Reap
This is your gateway to Angkor Wat. It’s also an affordable base with cheap accommodation, bike rentals, and inexpensive restaurants. Outside the temple complex, you can enjoy free activities like visiting the famous Pub Street (if just to look) or checking out the lively local markets.
Battambang
Battambang is less visited but offers chilled-out vibes and historical temples. Bamboo train rides and tours to the famous bat cave cost just a few bucks. It’s easy to stretch your dollar here, with rooms starting from $10 USD.
Kampot and Kep
Down south, Kampot and Kep are fantastic for a laid-back experience. You can visit pepper farms, and salt fields, or just relax by the river. You can easily rent a motorbike for about $8 USD and explore on your own. Kep’s Crab Market is famous but also affordable, with seafood meals costing $5 or less.
More Money-Saving Tips
Travel in the Shoulder Season
Cambodia’s rainy season (May to October) sees fewer tourists and lower prices on everything from hotels to food. While you’ll get some rain, it rarely ruins a full day. Early morning and late afternoon are often clear, giving you time to explore.
Bring Small Change
US Dollars are widely used in Cambodia, but make sure you always have small bills. Taxis and vendors don’t often have change for large ones, and bargaining is easier if you can pay the exact price.
Haggle!
Bargaining is a common practice in markets and with tuk-tuk drivers. Always ask for a lower price, but do it with a smile. Most vendors are more than willing to give a discount if you’re kind and polite.
Skip the Expensive Tours
You don’t need an expensive tour to explore Cambodia. Opt for DIY options like renting a bicycle, taking local buses, or hiring a friendly tuk-tuk driver for the day. You can still visit all the attractions without the high price tag.
Final Thoughts
Cambodia is one of my favorite places to travel on the cheap. With just a small budget, you can explore stunning ancient temples, relax in beautiful countryside towns, and enjoy amazing food. While costs have risen a bit in recent years, it’s still easy to travel here without breaking the bank.
Stick to these simple tips, and you’ll make the most out of your time in Cambodia while keeping your wallet happy!
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