Full Cost Breakdown for a Trip to Cambodia in 2025
Planning a trip to Cambodia requires understanding the diverse costs associated with travel, accommodation, dining, activities, and transportation that can vary significantly depending on travel style, duration, and personal preferences. This comprehensive cost breakdown provides realistic budget estimates for different types of travellers whilst offering strategies for maximising value and managing expenses effectively throughout your Cambodian adventure.
Cambodia's affordability compared to many other Southeast Asian destinations makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travellers, whilst luxury options provide exceptional value for those seeking premium experiences. Understanding the full spectrum of costs helps travellers plan appropriately whilst ensuring memorable experiences that align with their financial capabilities and travel goals.
Accommodation Costs Across Different Categories
Budget Accommodation Options
Budget accommodation in Cambodia provides excellent value for money whilst offering clean, safe, and comfortable lodging that meets the needs of cost-conscious travellers. Hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels throughout the country provide affordable options that enable extended travel whilst maintaining reasonable comfort standards.
Dormitory beds in hostels typically range from $3-8 USD per night in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, with prices varying based on location, amenities, and seasonal demand. These shared accommodations provide opportunities for social interaction whilst offering essential amenities including air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and common areas for relaxation and meal preparation.
Private rooms in budget guesthouses range from $8-20 USD per night, providing privacy and comfort whilst maintaining affordability for couples and solo travellers seeking more personal space. These accommodations typically include private bathrooms, air conditioning, and basic amenities whilst offering authentic local experiences and personalised service.
Budget hotels in provincial towns and smaller cities offer even greater value, with comfortable private rooms available for $5-15 USD per night whilst providing clean accommodation and essential amenities. These options enable extensive travel throughout Cambodia whilst maintaining low daily accommodation costs.
Seasonal variations affect budget accommodation pricing, with peak tourist seasons (November-March) commanding higher rates whilst wet season periods (May-October) offer significant discounts and promotional rates that can reduce accommodation costs by 20-40%.
Mid-Range Accommodation
Mid-range accommodation in Cambodia provides excellent comfort and amenities whilst maintaining reasonable pricing that appeals to travellers seeking quality without luxury price tags. These options include boutique hotels, upgraded guesthouses, and mid-range resorts that offer enhanced comfort and services.
Boutique hotels in major cities typically range from $25-60 USD per night, providing stylish accommodation with enhanced amenities including swimming pools, restaurants, spa services, and concierge assistance. These properties often feature unique design elements and personalised service that create memorable accommodation experiences.
Mid-range resorts in coastal areas and near major attractions range from $40-80 USD per night, offering comprehensive facilities including multiple dining options, recreational activities, and enhanced room amenities. These properties provide convenient access to attractions whilst offering relaxation and entertainment options.
Eco-lodges and sustainable accommodation options provide unique experiences whilst supporting environmental conservation and community development. These properties typically range from $30-70 USD per night whilst offering distinctive accommodation experiences that connect guests with natural environments and local communities.
Heritage hotels in historic buildings provide cultural experiences whilst offering modern comfort and amenities. These unique properties range from $35-75 USD per night whilst providing insights into Cambodian history and architectural heritage through their design and cultural programming.
Luxury Accommodation
Luxury accommodation in Cambodia provides world-class service and amenities whilst offering exceptional value compared to similar properties in other international destinations. These premium options include international hotel chains, luxury resorts, and exclusive boutique properties that cater to discerning travellers.
Five-star hotels in major cities range from $80-200 USD per night, providing comprehensive luxury amenities including multiple restaurants, spa facilities, fitness centres, and concierge services. These properties offer international standards whilst incorporating Cambodian design elements and cultural experiences.
Luxury beach resorts range from $150-400 USD per night, providing exclusive access to pristine beaches whilst offering comprehensive resort amenities including water sports, spa treatments, and fine dining. These properties provide complete vacation experiences whilst showcasing Cambodia's natural beauty.
Exclusive eco-luxury lodges in remote locations range from $200-500 USD per night, providing unique experiences that combine luxury accommodation with environmental conservation and cultural immersion. These properties offer distinctive experiences whilst supporting conservation efforts and community development.
Heritage luxury hotels in restored historic buildings provide unique cultural experiences whilst offering modern luxury amenities. These exceptional properties range from $120-300 USD per night whilst providing insights into Cambodian history and architectural heritage through their design and cultural programming.
Transportation and Getting Around
International Transportation
International flights to Cambodia vary significantly in cost depending on departure location, airline choice, booking timing, and seasonal demand. Understanding these factors helps travellers find the best deals whilst planning appropriate travel timing and routing options.
Flights from major Asian cities including Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Kuala Lumpur typically range from $100-300 USD for economy class, providing convenient regional connections with short flight times. These routes offer frequent service and competitive pricing that makes Cambodia easily accessible from regional hubs.
Long-haul flights from Europe, North America, and Australia typically range from $600-1,500 USD for economy class, with significant variations based on routing, airline choice, and booking timing. Advance booking and flexible travel dates can result in substantial savings whilst providing access to better flight options and routing choices.
Business class upgrades for international flights typically cost 2-4 times economy fares but provide enhanced comfort for long-haul travel whilst offering priority services and improved arrival experiences. These upgrades may be worthwhile for longer flights whilst providing better rest and comfort for immediate activity upon arrival.
Visa costs for most nationalities range from $30-35 USD for tourist visas, with e-visa options providing convenient online processing whilst avoiding airport queues and potential complications. Business visas cost slightly more but provide greater flexibility for extended stays and multiple entries.
Domestic Transportation
Domestic transportation in Cambodia includes various options that provide different levels of comfort, speed, and cost whilst accommodating diverse travel preferences and budget constraints. Understanding these options helps travellers choose appropriate transportation methods for different routes and circumstances.
Domestic flights between major cities cost $50-120 USD per route, providing time savings for longer distances whilst offering comfortable travel and scenic aerial views. These flights are particularly valuable for travellers with limited time or those seeking to avoid long overland journeys.
Tourist buses between major destinations typically cost $5-15 USD per route, providing comfortable transportation with air conditioning and reasonable travel times. These services connect major tourist destinations whilst offering reliable schedules and tourist-friendly amenities.
Local buses and shared transportation options cost $2-8 USD per route, providing authentic travel experiences whilst offering significant cost savings for budget-conscious travellers. These options require more flexibility and patience but provide opportunities for cultural interaction and authentic local experiences.
Private car hire with driver costs $40-80 USD per day depending on vehicle type and distance travelled, providing flexibility and comfort whilst enabling customised itineraries and convenient transportation for groups or families. These services offer excellent value for multiple passengers whilst providing personalised service and local knowledge.
Local Transportation
Local transportation within cities and towns provides affordable and convenient options for daily travel whilst offering opportunities to experience local transportation culture and interact with Cambodian communities.
Tuk-tuks provide convenient and affordable transportation for short to medium distances, typically costing $1-5 USD per trip depending on distance and negotiation skills. These iconic vehicles offer authentic Cambodian transportation experiences whilst providing opportunities for sightseeing and cultural interaction.
Motorbike taxis offer quick and economical transportation for short distances, typically costing $0.50-2 USD per trip whilst providing efficient navigation through traffic and narrow streets. These services require confidence and appropriate safety precautions but offer authentic local transportation experiences.
Bicycle rental costs $2-5 USD per day, providing environmentally friendly transportation whilst offering exercise and intimate exploration opportunities. Many accommodations provide complimentary bicycle use whilst rental shops offer various bicycle types for different terrain and preferences.
Walking remains free and provides excellent opportunities for cultural observation and spontaneous discoveries whilst maintaining physical activity and environmental responsibility. Most major tourist areas are walkable whilst providing opportunities for street food sampling and cultural encounters.
Food and Dining Expenses
Street Food and Local Dining
Street food and local dining provide exceptional value whilst offering authentic culinary experiences that showcase Cambodia's diverse and flavourful cuisine. These affordable options enable extensive culinary exploration whilst maintaining low daily food costs.
Street food meals typically cost $1-3 USD per serving, providing substantial portions of authentic Cambodian dishes whilst offering opportunities to observe food preparation and interact with local vendors. These meals provide excellent value whilst ensuring authentic flavour experiences and cultural immersion.
Local restaurants and food stalls typically charge $2-6 USD per meal, providing comfortable dining environments whilst maintaining authentic cuisine and reasonable pricing. These establishments offer broader menu selections whilst providing opportunities for longer dining experiences and cultural observation.
Traditional markets offer fresh fruits, snacks, and prepared foods at extremely low costs, typically $0.50-2 USD per item whilst providing opportunities to sample diverse local products and interact with vendors. These markets provide cultural experiences whilst offering healthy and affordable food options.
Local coffee shops and tea houses provide beverages and light meals for $1-3 USD whilst offering social environments and opportunities for cultural interaction. These establishments provide comfortable spaces for relaxation whilst offering authentic beverage experiences and local atmosphere.
Mid-Range Restaurant Dining
Mid-range restaurants in Cambodia provide enhanced dining experiences whilst maintaining reasonable pricing that appeals to travellers seeking quality cuisine and comfortable environments without luxury price tags.
Cambodian restaurants specialising in traditional cuisine typically charge $5-12 USD per meal, providing authentic dishes in comfortable environments whilst offering comprehensive menu selections and enhanced service. These establishments provide cultural dining experiences whilst maintaining reasonable pricing and quality standards.
International cuisine restaurants typically charge $8-18 USD per meal, providing familiar food options whilst maintaining quality ingredients and preparation standards. These establishments appeal to travellers seeking dietary variety whilst providing comfortable dining environments and reliable quality.
Hotel restaurants and resort dining typically charge $10-25 USD per meal, providing convenient dining whilst offering enhanced service and ambiance. These options provide comfort and convenience whilst maintaining quality standards and offering diverse menu selections.
Riverside and scenic restaurants typically charge $8-20 USD per meal whilst providing enhanced ambiance and scenic views that justify premium pricing. These establishments provide memorable dining experiences whilst showcasing Cambodia's natural beauty and providing romantic or special occasion dining options.
Fine Dining and Luxury Experiences
Fine dining in Cambodia provides exceptional culinary experiences whilst offering excellent value compared to similar establishments in other international destinations. These premium dining options showcase innovative cuisine whilst providing sophisticated service and ambiance.
High-end Cambodian restaurants typically charge $20-40 USD per meal, providing innovative interpretations of traditional cuisine whilst offering sophisticated presentations and enhanced service. These establishments showcase Cambodia's culinary potential whilst providing memorable dining experiences.
International fine dining restaurants typically charge $25-60 USD per meal, providing world-class cuisine whilst maintaining international standards for ingredients, preparation, and service. These establishments provide familiar luxury dining experiences whilst incorporating local ingredients and cultural elements.
Resort fine dining and special occasion restaurants typically charge $30-80 USD per meal, providing comprehensive luxury dining experiences whilst offering exceptional service and ambiance. These establishments provide celebration dining whilst showcasing culinary artistry and sophisticated hospitality.
Wine and beverage costs at fine dining establishments typically add $15-40 USD to meal costs, with imported wines commanding premium prices whilst local beverages provide more affordable options for enhancing dining experiences.
Budget Planning by Travel Style
Backpacker Budget (Under $25 USD per day)
Backpacker budgets enable extended travel throughout Cambodia whilst maintaining basic comfort and authentic experiences through careful spending and strategic choices.
Accommodation costs of $3-8 USD per night in dormitories or basic guesthouses provide clean and safe lodging whilst enabling social interaction and cost savings. These options provide essential amenities whilst maintaining affordability for extended travel.
Food costs of $5-10 USD per day through street food and local dining provide authentic culinary experiences whilst maintaining nutritional needs and cultural immersion. These options provide excellent value whilst ensuring diverse and flavourful meals.
Transportation costs of $3-8 USD per day through local buses and shared transportation provide authentic travel experiences whilst maintaining affordability for extensive exploration. These options require flexibility but provide cultural interaction and cost savings.
Activity costs of $5-15 USD per day enable temple visits and cultural experiences whilst maintaining budget constraints through strategic choices and free activities. These options provide cultural education whilst supporting conservation efforts and local communities.
Mid-Range Budget ($25-75 USD per day)
Mid-range budgets provide enhanced comfort and experiences whilst maintaining reasonable costs and enabling comprehensive exploration of Cambodia's attractions and culture.
Accommodation costs of $15-35 USD per night in boutique hotels and mid-range properties provide comfort and amenities whilst maintaining reasonable pricing and quality standards. These options provide enhanced experiences whilst supporting local hospitality businesses.
Food costs of $15-25 USD per day through restaurant dining and culinary experiences provide diverse cuisine whilst maintaining quality and comfort standards. These options provide cultural dining whilst supporting local restaurants and culinary traditions.
Transportation costs of $10-20 USD per day through private transportation and tourist services provide comfort and flexibility whilst enabling efficient exploration and customised itineraries. These options provide convenience whilst supporting local transportation services.
Activity costs of $15-35 USD per day enable comprehensive cultural experiences whilst providing enhanced services and educational opportunities. These options provide quality experiences whilst supporting conservation efforts and community development.
Luxury Budget ($75+ USD per day)
Luxury budgets provide premium experiences whilst offering exceptional value compared to similar luxury travel in other international destinations.
Accommodation costs of $80-200+ USD per night in luxury hotels and resorts provide world-class service whilst offering comprehensive amenities and sophisticated hospitality. These options provide ultimate comfort whilst supporting high-quality hospitality development.
Food costs of $30-60+ USD per day through fine dining and luxury culinary experiences provide exceptional cuisine whilst showcasing culinary artistry and sophisticated service. These options provide memorable dining whilst supporting culinary excellence and innovation.
Transportation costs of $30-60+ USD per day through private vehicles and premium services provide ultimate comfort whilst enabling flexible and personalised exploration. These options provide convenience whilst supporting premium service providers and local employment.
Activity costs of $40-100+ USD per day enable exclusive experiences whilst providing personalised service and unique opportunities. These options provide exceptional experiences whilst supporting conservation efforts and community development through premium tourism.
Planning a trip to Cambodia requires understanding the diverse costs associated with different travel styles whilst recognising the exceptional value that the country provides across all budget categories. By carefully considering accommodation, transportation, dining, and activity costs, travellers can create memorable experiences that align with their financial capabilities whilst supporting local communities and conservation efforts. Cambodia's affordability, combined with its rich culture and natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking authentic experiences and excellent value regardless of their budget constraints or luxury preferences.