How to Plan a Trip to Thailand and Cambodia (2024/2025)

Thailand and Cambodia are neighboring countries. Many visitors who make the journey to Southeast Asia plan a combined trip and visit both countries.

In this guide, we are going to look at how to plan a travel itinerary for a tour of Thailand and Cambodia.

Which Country to Enter First?

Before the outbreak, we generally recommended entry through Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, because Bangkok has more international flight options.

However, due to the decrease in international flights during the pandemic, whether to enter from Thailand first or Cambodia depends on the international flight choices available for your departure point.

Traveling from Europe and Australia

For travelers from Europe and Australia, there are few direct international flights to Cambodia at the moment. Passengers typically need to transfer in Singapore, which is a very good airport. But direct flights to/from Thailand are available.

Thus, we usually suggest entering at Cambodia and leaving from Thailand. Taking a direct flight after your trip would give you the best chance of coming back from your holiday refreshed, and making your beachside stay in Thailand your final stop would give the optimum wind-down experience for the whole trip.

You could also choose to fly in and out from Thailand. However, you would need some extra travel time to journey from Thailand and Cambodia and back.

Traveling from the US and Canada

For travelers from the United States and Canada, currently the flight availability doesn't make a big difference to the itinerary, as either Thailand or Cambodia requires a connecting flight. Thus, you can decide according to the most convenient flight times, ticket prices, and your travel dates.

All things being equal, we still suggest Cambodia entry and Thailand exit, for a relaxing beach finish.

Get Expert Itinerary Advice

If you are still unsure of your tour arrangements, we are here to help. We will select the best tour route based on your needs to make the most of your time, avoid hassles, and make your travel experience as enjoyable as possible. Contact us.

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Seeing Bangkok with ease In Bangkok, our tour guide, Ying, was wonderful. She navigated all the sights with ease, gave us interesting tidbits on Thai culture and history, helped us pick the right food at all the restaurants, and was just a pleasure to be around. We had a great time, and it was so nice to not have to worry about any of the details. More Diane Elkins, Nov 2023

Thailand -insights, no stress and amazing team My husband and my Thailand trip was fantastic, stress-free and educational thanks to the amazing team coordinated by Albee at Asia Highlights. The whole team was incredibly accessible, responsive, sensitive to our needs and lovely to work with. End-to-end, the trip was truly remarkable and the knowledgeable and dynamic tour guides and drivers made it especially memorable! More AndrewsFamily, Oct 2023

Informative & Thorough / Thanks Sharon! Sharon the advisor that helped me was so thorough & informative and explained the details of the tour including questions about visas and what is included vs what is not included in the tour packages. I would recommend them to explain tour packages that would fit the schedule of your pending travels. More Chris, Sep 2023

Easy, fast responses I worked directly with Monica in Asia Highlights. She was incredibly helpful and answered all of my questions quickly. Working with her made the whole process easy and we are so excited for our trip! More Diana B, Sep 2023

Stress free Thailand Alisa has organised our 14 day Thailand holiday for 2024 for my family & I. She has been very accommodating & super quick with all of our requests & we cannot wait for a stress free holiday! Thank you Alisa! More Alana Mitchell, Sep 2023

Family Trip to Thailand-Cambodia All of our guides were very nice and knowledgeable, but we have a special mention to our guide in Cambodia, Chan, he was very kind with us and it was very amusing. He went the extra mile for us. We really enjoyed our holidays! More José Antonio Carrillo de la Pl, Sep 2023

Asia Highlights and Sharon Asia Highlights, specifically Sharon, has been wonderfully helpful as we get ready for a 2024 excursion to Thailand. We are beyond excited, and much of that has to do with the personalized attention that we have experienced with Sharon. She has been extremely responsive, obliging, and focused as she helped us design a tailor made itinerary. All of our questions have been addressed, our needs have been met, and the path has now been set for a very exciting trip.... thanks to Sharon. More Marcy Hoenig, Sep 2023

I was planning a trip to Thailand to… I was planning a trip to Thailand to especially see the Lantern Festival this year for our birthdays!! It’s been on our bucket list, but we were completely lost on how to go about planning for our trip. We’ve never really booked tours before but Alisa was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, flexible and efficient in providing all the information we needed to make our decision on the best tours and tickets to purchase. Thank you so much!! More https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/64d9a5a4657e4b39f768a21e, Aug 2023

I would definitely recommend Asia… All of our guides were wonderful (Mr. Bank - Bangkok and Ms. Kai in Phuket & Khao Sok plus antoher guide who assisted in Koh Samui). Sharon took care of tours, private drivers, flights and hotels within Thailand and our trip went off without a hitch. The hotels were great and the transportation always arrived on time and with a clean, More Guinevere Provance, Aug 2023

Great Experience WOW! I’ve traveled Asia some & I must say Sharon & Asia Highlights made this trip so much more enjoyable and easy More Stephen Hollis, Aug 2023

Alisa has has been great to work with Alisa with Asia Highlights has has been great to work with. Very friendly and responsive. More Ana Rausch, Aug 2023

Using Sharon right now to book our… Using Sharon right now to book our upcoming trip to Thailand. She has booked everything that we asked for. Has answered all of my inquiries, which has been many! Looking forward to having a great girls trip in Thailand More Tracy, Aug 2023

Thailand, Singapore, Bali In Thailand, Tanny and Nori(Suparp), were both incredible! They were both fun, funny, and full of knowledge and made sure we got the full experience. They went the extra mile and always made sure we had cold bottled water and towels to cleanse our hands. In Singapore, Nicole was an absolute gem. She was so kind and knowledgeable and guided us in the right direction to make our day as enjoyable as possible. She helped us choose a top notch local lunch and coffee spot in China Town and taught us so much about the country! In Bali, Emon was an absolute joy. He was very knowledgeable and kind and absolutely made sure we were feeling comfortable and was willing to be flexible with us. He was fun to converse with and made our time traveling between destinations so enjoyable! I cannot recommend Asia Highlights enough! Accommodations, travel arrangements and guided tours were all a breeze. More Cassi Thunker, Jul 2023

Very supportive Very supportive ! I have received eticket for Sky Lattern Festival very fast More Chi?n Nguy?n Ng?c, Jul 2023

My experience in Chang Mai with Asia Highlights I greatly enjoyed my experience with Asia Highlights for a trip I booked to Thailand.All of my interests were catered too. My guide in Chang Mai Gemma was excellent.I truly felt the soul of Thailand culture and Buddhism. More Richard, Jul 2023

A pleasure to plan with Well, this has been a painless and pleasurable process to find such a wonderful company. I had specific dates and places to be and Sharon worked with me diligently to refine the schedule and costs to suit my travel needs and budget. She informed me of a special tour on the dates I am to be in Thailand and I added that to my previous plans. More Chris Williams, Jul 2023

Large multi-generational holiday in Thailand The holiday was wonderful. Our guides, Mr Monchai (Bangkok), and Ms Tipagorn (Tippy) (Chiang Mai) were exceptional. Travelling in a large multigenerational group with many children requires patience and our guides truly understood that. Mr Monchai and Ms Tippy shared their extensive knowledge of the many wonderful places we visited, and were flexible to take us to additional places along the way based on discussions. While everyday was busy, having them greet us with patience and a smile truly made this a memorable holiday. The hotels we stayed at were equally wonderful and went above and beyond to celebrate not only my parents 50th anniversary but also celebrate 2 milestone birthdays that occurred. We will cherish this holiday for many years to come. We hope to use Asia Highlights again. More CL, Jul 2023

I never used a travel agent in my life I never used a travel agent in my life, but Sharon for Asia Highlights did a phenomenal job helping planning and coordination a family vacation. The best part of working with Sharon was that she maintained an open line of communication and provided answers to my question well within 12-24 hours. Additionally, Sharon was flexible and customized our vacation to my families needs. Overall great experience. More Antione Barry, Jul 2023

Great company to plan a trip to Southeast Asia! Sharon Haung has been wonderful to work with! Very patient and accommodating. Responds immediately given time change and is prepared, prompt, and professional. More Debi Hinerfeld, Jul 2023

We took a 15 days trip (10 days Vietnam and 5 days Thailand … It was an amazing experience the guides and drivers were there awaiting for us at each airoport for a transfer to the hotels also on time for all the tours all the guides were so lovely , very experienced and spoke very good English , one of the days on tour in Thailand I lost my phone in a temple in Bangkok mr chai went out of his way in a middle of thousands of visitors and managed to find an bring it back to me I found that amazing , also while on a trip I contacted Jason li out tour organizer few time via whatup and he replied and helped on the spot I recommend asiahilights 150% The quality of the service hotels the guides the drivers outstanding From start to finish ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT ???? More SIMO el ghobar, Jun 2023

How Do I Travel Between Thailand and Cambodia?

By far the most convenient way to travel between Cambodia and Thailand is by air. Bangkok has direct flights to Phnom Penh (Cambodia's capital) and Siem Reap (most famous tourist city). Both journeys take just over an hour.

You can also travel by land between Bangkok and Siem Reap. Poipet (Cambodia) / Aranya Prathet (Thailand) port on the Cambodian/Thai border is the most popular port for tourists. The journey takes about 6–9 hours. You can purchase the bus tickets on the travel agencies in Bangkok's Khao San Road and Downtown Siem Reap.

How Many Days are Needed?

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

A trip to Thailand and Cambodia with all the must-sees takes at least 10 days. Most people arrange 10 days to 2 weeks: spending 3–5 days in Cambodia and 7–9 days in Thailand.

Thailand is bigger than Cambodia and has more attractions. So, most travelers set aside more time to visit Thailand.

For a tour to Thailand, the popular combination is Bangkok (capital city), Chiang Mai (the largest city in northern Thailand), and an island in southern Thailand (usually Phuket or Koh Samui). Phuket is the most popular, while some couples prefer Koh Samui's romantic vibe.

Cambodia is a small country. Siem Reap (the second largest city in Cambodia) is a must-visit for its incredible Angkor Wat. Phnom Penh (its capital city) is an option if you have time. Its temples and local markets are popular features.

Extending reading: How Long to Spend in Southeast Asia (for First Timers)

10-Day Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

A 10-day trip allows you to see the most popular attractions of both countries. Here's a favorite way to organize the itinerary:

• Days 1–2: Siem Reap sightseeing
• Day 3: Fly to Bangkok
• Day 4: Visit Bangkok
• Day 5: Bangkok to Chiang Mai
• Days 6–7: Explore Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai to Phuket
• Days 8–10: Phuket beach time

11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour

A 2-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

Compared with only two days in Siem Reap during the 10-day itinerary, you can leave yourself plenty of time to explore Siem Reap with 2 weeks' touring time.

• Day 1-5: Siem Reap tour in depth
• Day 6: Fly to Bangkok
• Day 7-8: Bangkok sightseeing
• Day 9: Fly to Phuket
• Day 10-13: Explore Phuket
• Day 14: Back to Bangkok

For more detail on this 2-week Thailand and Cambodia tour plan, see our 9-Day Thailand Tour with Elephant Encounter and Island Escape and 5-Day Siem Reap in Depth Tour. Or get more itinerary ideas to plan your 2-week dream trip>>>

All our tours can be adjusted to suit you. We can make a trip based on your interests, group size, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us.

>>>How to Plan 2-Week Southeast Asia Itineraries for Honeymoons, Families, and More

3-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itineraries

In three weeks, apart from five days in Siem Reap, you can spend 1 or 2 days exploring Phnom Penh. You will also have more time for exploring Thailand's temples, palaces, national parks, and island hopping. Learn more itineraries about 3 weeks in Thailand and Cambodia>>>

Some people like their 2-to-3-week tours to combine Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Check out our How to Plan a Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour.

15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

How Much Does a Cambodia and Thailand Trip Cost?

Cambodia and Thailand are not expensive countries. They can match a wide range of budgets. The cost of traveling in Cambodia is slightly lower than in Thailand by US$10–30 per day.

Travel Costs in Thailand

• For backpackers, the budget is around 30 USD/day per person (hostels, street food, local public transportation).
• For a medium budget, it will cost around 50 USD per day per person (3-star hotels, sit-down restaurants, tuk-tuks, taxies sometimes).
• For a higher standard and a more refined experience, US$100–150 per day per person is needed (4/5-star hotels, nice meals, taxies or private transfers).

Travel Costs in Cambodia

• For backpackers, the budget is around 15 USD/day per person (hostels, street food, local public transportation).
• For a medium budget, it will cost around 25–35 USD per day per person (3-star hotels, sit-down restaurants, taxies sometimes).
• For a higher standard and a more refined experience, US$70–150 per day per person is needed (4/5-star hotels, nice meals, taxies or private transfers).

Visa and Entry Requirements for a Thailand and Cambodia Trip

Thailand allows visa-free entry from 64 countries, including Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Norway, the USA, and the UK. (If you do not qualify for the visa-free policy, you will need to apply for a visa to visit Thailand.)

However, Cambodia requires you to obtain a tourist visa, which can either be obtained online, or when you arrive at Phnom Penh or Siem Reap Airport. >>> How to Apply for a Cambodia Visa

28-Day Grand Indochina Tour Myanmar - Vietnam - Laos - Cambodia - Thailand

Best Times to Visit Thailand and Cambodia

Thailand and Cambodia enjoy similar climates because of their close proximity. November to April is the best time to visit Thailand and Cambodia with the sunny and dry weather.

One of the busiest times is around Christmas/New Year holiday. As international travel continues its recovery, during the Christmas & New Year holiday season, hotels in popular cities/islands such as Bangkok, and flights between popular destinations such as Siem Reap - Bangkok are likely to be sold out in advance. Be sure to plan ahead and make reservations in advance. Let us know your interests and requirements, and we'll take care of everything. Want more dry places to go in Southeast Asia? Check Southeast Asia Weather in December>>>

We promise you enjoy 100% refund of any payments made to China Highlights prior to 3 weeks before departure (detail⇒).

August to early October sees the heaviest rains in both countries. Usually, there are short afternoon/dusk downpours, so it won't affect your trip too much.

• Best Times to Visit Cambodia
• Best Times to Visit Thailand

Festival Tips

If you want the best festival experiences, consider visiting in April or November:

• Cambodia and Thailand's New Years both fall in April (usually April 13–15). It's one of their biggest festivals.
• November is the month of Thailand's Lantern Festivals. It is one of the top reasons for tourists to come to Thailand.

19-Day In-Depth Tour of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam

Travel Tips

• Thailand and Cambodia are both Buddhist countries. Dress in an appropriate way when you visit temples: cover your shoulders and knees.
• Though Cambodia's national currency is the Riel, US dollars are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. But Thailand only accepts the local currency, the baht.
• Tipping is common in Cambodia and Thailand, both to show appreciation and to receive better service. A tip of one to two dollars is appropriate.

Related Articles

• How to Plan a 3-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary
• How to Plan a Trip to Cambodia and Vietnam
• Vietnam vs Thailand: Which to Visit (A Helpful Comparison for You)
• How to Plan a Thailand and Vietnam Trip (2024/2025)

Contact Us for Bookings/Inquiries

All our tours can be adjusted as much as you like. We aim to create an ideal itinerary based on your interests, group size, budget, and other requirements. Feel free to contact us.

• 11-Day Best of Thailand and Cambodia Tour
• 12-Day Essential Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour
• 15-Day Best of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam Tour

You can find yet more Thailand travel itineraries on our Most Popular Thailand-Cambodia-Vietnam Tours page.