There are so many wonderful places to visit in Portugal, and Obidos is one you should not miss. This beautiful village is filled with whitewashed buildings which are painted and covered with colorful bougainvillea. You’ll quickly fall in love as you slowly stroll around the narrow streets. We briefly stopped here overnight on our 10 day trip through Portugal. It’s an easy drive from Lisbon, and the perfect stop on a road trip. Read on to see why this place captivated our hearts and memories.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

Places to Visit in Portugal: Obidos Village Guide

In This Article
Brief Background of Obidos
How to Get to Obidos
When to Go to Obidos
Where to Stay in Obidos
What to Do in Obidos

The view of Obidos from the castle

A Brief Background on Obidos

Obidos is a unique place with a network of narrow cobblestone streets, town squares, homes and shops. It sits atop a hill with Obidos Castle as its focal point. King Afonso II presented it to his wife on her wedding day in the 1200s, which happens to be a Portuguese tradition. Because of this its been nicknamed “The Town of the Queens.”

The village is a perfect example of medieval architecture, with fortified castle walls surrounding it and entry through various gates. Because it’s close to the Atlantic, it used to thrive as a trading port. The 1755 earthquake caused damage to the town, but since then it has been restored.

How to Get to Obidos

You can get to Obidos by bus or train from Lisbon, however the best way is to rent a car and drive there. It’s about an hour drive via the A8 expressway and very easy to get to. You will have to park outside the walls once you arrive.

Driving also allows you to stay overnight and have it all to yourself after all the tours leave. Since it’s popular as a day trip, it can get quite crowded during the day. But once they leave the streets become much more quiet and empty.

Public Transportation

To get there by bus you’ll take the Rápida Verde from Campo Grande station in Lisbon. We do not recommend going by train since the journey takes much longer and also is not as close to the village.

Read more about our Portugal Road Trip

The homes were covered with flowers and beautifully painted

When to Go

The best time to visit Portugal overall is usually in spring or fall. We went during summer and stayed in the northern part, since the Algarve was most touristy during this time. If you’re into festivals you might want to plan your trip around those. In the end, it really comes down to personal preference of when to go.

The gorgeous view from the terrace and yard at Casa Picva

Where to Stay in Obidos

There are many wonderful places to stay in Obidos depending on what your style is. You can either stay inside or outside the walls. With a car, it’s much more convenient to stay somewhere outside the walls since you can park nearby. You cannot park on the inside since there’s no access.

We ended up choosing Casa Picva, perfectly located right outside the walls near one of the gates. The owner João was very welcoming and hospitable for our entire stay. The room was very spacious and comfortable and we even got an extra bed for our daughter. There is a cozy yard with seating, a koi pond, and fruit trees with gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape. Breakfast was served communal style and everything was fresh and homemade. He offered great advice on what to see and do, as well as a helpful map. The house itself contained a lot of history and a wonderful collection of art. It was a perfect, relaxing stay and we would not hesitate to return again.

If you’re interested in staying within the walls the Torre de Maneys gets great reviews and is loved by many. It’s quite a unique place that makes you feel like you’re staying in a medieval castle. The interiors look stunning with beautiful views, and a delicious breakfast is included.

Need more Obidos hotel options? See more

What to Do in Obidos

Although Obidos is a rather small village, there are still many things to do. Below I’ve outlined some of the highlights on what to do while here, whether it’s a day trip or staying overnight.

Wander and Explore

One of the best parts of being in a gorgeous village like this, is just letting yourself wander. There are many hidden discoveries to be found walking around. Pay attention to the details around you, there is so much charm here. We had such a wonderful time relaxing and checking out all beauty around us. Since we live such a fast and busy life in a big city, it feels great to just slow down. Some of our favorite parts of a place are away from the main streets. You definitely won’t get tired of it!

A Medieval Tour
Are you a history lover like us? Get a proper intro to this village with this tour. You’ll visit a few secret spots including the castle, and finish off with a Ginjinha liqueur tasting.

Shop and Stroll Along the Rua Direita

Next up is the Rua Direita, a main street which runs through the center of the village. There are several local artisan shops, souvenir shops, restaurants and art galleries, and a great place to try some ginja. Although it can get rather busy, this street is bursting with delight. Make sure to stop by Capinha d’Óbidos for a sweet. It’s a family run bakery since the 1800’s with traditional recipes and such a wonderful atmosphere.

Closeup of ginja served in a chocolate cup

The view of the surrounding Portuguese countryside beyond the castle walls

Drink Ginja

Drinking ginja is another popular thing to do in Obidos. It’s a sour cherry liqueur that’s usually served in a chocolate cup. It’s very easy to find here along the Rue Direita and usually around 1 euro per cup. Many of the shops here also sell bottles of it so you can bring plenty home with you!

Obidos Castle and Walls

Obidos Castle is one of the first things you see as you come upon the village. Dating all the way back to the 8th century, this beautiful medieval castle is a symbol of national pride. But since it was transformed into a luxury hotel (pousada), you can’t take a tour inside. The castle walls surround the entire village, and we highly recommend taking a walk around them. Or if you’re brave, along the top. It’s much more quiet around these parts and there are beautiful views to see. If you’re staying the night, wake up early and watch the sunrise here.

Festivals

Another great thing to see while traveling are the festivals. There are a few popular ones in Obidos. The Medieval Market usually takes place in mid-July through August. There are people dressed in costume with plenty of artisans selling handicrafts, food, and entertainment to enjoy. The International Chocolate festival takes place in the spring (April-May) featuring many chocolatiers from around the world.

Tiny violinist in the beautiful streets of Obidos

A Beautiful Place to Visit in Portugal

If you’re looking for a brief escape, Obidos is the perfect place to be. You can easily add it on to your Lisbon itinerary, or part of a larger road trip. With its quaint cobblestone streets, brightly painted cottages, and local vibes, you’ll come here never wanting to leave. It was the perfect start to our road trip through Portugal. And although it may be small, Obidos is bursting with history and character.

Have you been to Obidos? If so, we’d love to hear more!

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Cambodia is one of those countries that captured my heart the moment we arrived. Despite a culture with a tragic past, the people were delightful, warm, and welcoming. We spent a total of 10 days in Cambodia as a multi-generational trip with our parents and daughter. I was pleasantly surprised at the diversity and beauty of each area. This comprehensive itinerary will allow you to see quite a bit of the country. We do tend to pack it all in, so if this isn’t your style feel free to customize to your liking. We’ve included some helpful suggestions along the way.

10 Days in Cambodia with Kids

This itinerary begins with the perfect introduction to Cambodia in Siem Reap. Explore and learn about the Angkor temples, discover life on the Tonle Sap at a floating village, and have a great night out along Pub Street. After Siem Reap you’ll continue on to more of the country venturing to far away places like Mondulkiri, Kampot and Koh Rong Sanloem. Come along on this journey with us and be inspired as you plan your trip here!

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

In This Article
Traveling with Kids in Cambodia
Best Time to Go
Packing List for Cambodia
Angkor National Museum, Pub Street, Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tour
Angkor Wat Sunrise, Small Circuit Temple Tour, Pre Rup, Pub Street
Banteay Srei, Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, Phnom Bakheng Sunset
Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
Elephant Sanctuary and Nature Lodge in Mondulkiri
Kampot
Koh Rong Sanloem

Taking in all of the exciting and new surroundings in Siem Reap

Traveling with Kids in Cambodia

If you’re a family reading this and on the fence about bringing your kids, I will say don’t hesitate. We found it to be quite a kid-friendly place despite the long and hot hours exploring the temples. It could get difficult without family around to help, but with some schedule adjustments you can definitely make it work. It also depends on your kids and what they can handle. With our daughter being quite the easy traveler, we can usually get more out of our day.

Helpful Tips

Overall, we recommend taking some time to visit the temples early in the morning, as it gets very hot and humid as the day goes by. Try to take a break in the afternoon to relax at your hotel and eat, then go back out to explore. We had limited time here, so there were some days we had to just keep moving onto the next site. This meant we moved a lot more slowly and took more breaks, but ultimately we still saw a lot of temples. Be willing to sacrifice any original plans with kids, you may not be able to fit as much as you had planned to!

Make sure to carry a lot of cold water and snacks. Our tuk tuk driver provided it after returning from the temples, but it’s also important to keep with you too. If you’re moving on to various parts of the country, there will be some long drives on the buses. Try booking seats towards the front, as they are cooler and more comfortable.

Sunset from our jungle nature lodge in Mondulkiri

Best Time to Go to Cambodia

Cambodia has only two seasons divided into wet and dry. The wet season is typically from May to October and brings continual rain making travel more difficult to various areas. But it also has a lot less tourists with lower prices. If you’re planning to see a floating village on the Tonle Sap, this would be the time the homes would be truly submerged. However travel to Mondulkiri to visit an elephant sanctuary will be much more difficult, as road travel is not as safe. There are also more mosquitos during this time which increases risk for illness.

The dry season is usually from November through April. While we visited in February, we experienced very little rain. In Mondulkiri there was no rain at all, and barely any mosquitos in sight. Because the weather was more dry, overall it looked a lot less green. It was also high season for tourists, meaning costs were a lot higher. In the end it all depends on your preference, budget and itinerary.

Packing List for Cambodia

In an effort to be prepared for mosquitos and tropical humid weather, we did some research on what to pack. We felt most comfortable in loose-fitting and breathable clothes. For myself I wore a lot of maxi skirts, and harem pants. Our daughter wore a lot of sundresses and capri leggings. For men, just a t-shirt and shorts will do.

Because mosquitos are attracted to darker colors and floral patterns, I tried to wear lighter colored whites and neutrals, and stayed away from colorful prints and blacks. If you really want to be hardcore you can always wear a bug jacket.

Mosquito Repellent

I did a lot of research prior to the trip on best repellents to use on both adults and our daughter. Now after experiencing these products during the trip, we definitely vouch these Sawyer products. They were extremely effective at keeping away the mosquitos. Generally I’m pretty adamant about not using anything with chemicals, but made an exception to avoid any possible illness. We mostly used products with Picaridin, as they were safer to use on everyone. For our daughter we also used really convenient wipes which made it easier to apply.

Comfortable shoes were also important as we did a lot of walking and exploring. I always swear by my Tevas and also my Supergas. Both are always much more comfortable for many hours of walking.

Other Important Items

Aside from these specific items for Cambodia, we also made sure to pack a full health kit for any ailment, charcoal pills to battle any sickness, and backup antibiotics in case of extreme illness. Of course don’t forget sunscreen to protect from the sun. We keep all our cash and valuables in a neck wallet, especially in bigger cities where snatching is more common. We also use an Osprey backpack that fits everything we need and allows us to carry-on only.

See more: How to Prep for Your Cambodia Trip

Pub street life during the day

10 Days in Cambodia Itinerary: Days 1-4 in Siem Reap

The beginning of your 10 day journey in Cambodia starts in the ancient city of Siem Reap. Millions of tourists flock here every year to visit the Angkor temples. In this itinerary, you will see many main spots, as well as some off the beaten path temples. You can customize as you wish based on your travel style, but we typically pack more in.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Depending on when your flight arrives will determine what you do will do on your first day. Because our flight arrived later at night, we basically got to the hotel and relaxed, preparing ourselves for an early start the next day.

Mane Village Suites

There are so many great options for various budgets in Siem Reap. We ended up staying at Mane Village Suites, a mid-range option that was still a wonderful and comfortable stay. It had a great location, a nicely-sized suite which fit all five of us with so much room to spare. They had delicious Khmer cuisine with a nice outside bar near the pool. Included was free tuk tuk service to Pub street, just a quick 5 minute trip away. It was within walking distance from some great food options, and also not too far from the Angkor temples.

The gorgeous bar and restaurant area at Mane Village Suites

Other Hotel Options in Siem Reap

Golden Temple Residence: A beautiful boutique style hotel in a convenient location. Gets great reviews and perfect for families! Breakfast is included.

The Night Hotel: A great value within walking distance of several sites within the city. Breakfast is included.

Looking for more options? See more.

The entrance to Angkor National Museum

Day 1: Angkor National Museum, Pub Street, Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tour

The best way to start off in Siem Reap is to first visit the Angkor National Museum. It will give you valuable insight and good foundation before touring the temples. We were able to understand more behind the history and have more context as we explored. However if you’re already well versed on the history then you can skip it. It’s easy to get here by tuk tuk and plan for a few hours here. You can purchase an audio tour for an additional cost which adds on to the time, but gives a more thorough experience. There’s also a cafe inside for snacks and drinks. The entrance fee was $12 for adults. Note: A lot of the exhibits didn’t allow photos

Lunch

After the museum tour it’ll be lunch time. Our tuk tuk driver brought us to Pub Street which has several options. He made some recommendations and we decided upon Amok Restaurant, located right in the heart of it. The food was a bit pricey for Siem Reap, but overall very delicious. The seating outside is so nice and there are a lot of shops nearby to check out while waiting for your food.

A view of some of the houses along the Tonle Sap

Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tour

After lunch you’ll head back to your hotel to relax a bit. Around 2pm, our guide for the floating village tour picked us up. We booked the tour through Community First, a lovely organization that is ethical and sustainable. You’ll be in a comfortable minivan with a group of around 8 people total. It was such a wonderful experience and one of the highlights to our time in Siem Reap.

Sticky Rice, Cambodian Bakery

During the tour you’ll stop by a roadside vendor to try some sticky rice. Next up you’ll visit traditional Cambodian bakery where you’ll see how some of the desserts are made and take a brief tour. You’ll also get to snack on some of the sweets.

Bridge of Life School, Tonle Sap Boat Cruise

Then you’ll arrive in Kompong Khleang and drive into the village. First up is a tour of the Bridge of Life School, which helps local children get a good educational foundation. This will allow you to see how the tour cost is utilized to help the community. Finally the tour will end with a sunset boat cruise along the Tonle Sap, and a visit to a Vietnamese floating village. The group tour is a total of 5-6 hours and costs $35 for adults, and $25 for children under 12. You can book private tours as well for a higher cost.

See more details here: Tonle Sap Floating Village Tour

Dinner

We arrived back from the tour around 7pm, just in time for dinner. Since we were quite exhausted from the day we decided to eat at the hotel. However if you’re feeling up to it you can head to Pub Street. With a full day of temples the next day it was best to head to bed early.

Alternative Option
If you’re not interested in seeing a floating village you could do a cooking class like this one. In this 3 hour tour you’ll visit with a local family within a village and learn how to make a traditional meal. It’s another great family activity and way to have an authentic experience.

Exploring one of the wings of Angkor Wat

Day 2: Angkor Wat Sunrise, Small Circuit Temple Tour, Pre Rup, Pub Street

Angkor Wat Temple and Sunrise

The next day starts extremely early with the sunrise at Angkor Wat. You’ll be picked up at your hotel around 4:30am and either head straight for the gate, or to get the tickets. The temple opens promptly at 5am and the earlier you get there, the better chance you have at getting a spot in front. Our tuk tuk driver picked us up at 4:20am since we still had to get tickets. We arrived to Angkor Wat around 4:45am and although we didn’t get to be in front, we still got a decent spot. Read more on how to capture sunrise at Angkor Wat.

After the sunrise you’ll have some time to explore Angkor Wat. We had some quiet time inside the temple before the real crowds began to arrive. There were some parts where nobody was around. Seeing the bas reliefs that we learned about at the museum was so unreal to see in person. It really is a spectacular place to see and it’s no wonder that millions of tourists come here every year.

Breakfast

When you finish taking your tour of Angkor Wat it’ll be time for breakfast. Our hotel packed some breakfast boxes so we went to one of the restaurants nearby and ordered some drinks to sit and eat. It saved a lot of time having our food already so we could move onto the next temple.

Optional Temple Tour
For those who like to have everything planned out, this 2 day temple tour including Angkor Wat Sunrise is a great option. You’ll get to see a lot of the temples we are covering in this itinerary with a guide and vehicle transport at an amazing value!

South Gate of Angkor Thom

Next up starts the Small Circuit temple tour. The South Gate of Angkor Thom is a beautiful entrance to the complex. Along the right and left side you’ll see the devas (gods) and asuras (demons) which you’ll learn about during your museum tour. Although it wasn’t even 10am, this area was already quite busy. Our tuk tuk driver dropped us off near the entrance so that we could walk through, then drove us to our next stop. It’s a lovely place for photos with the bridge, and the entrance itself is so detailed.

A glimpse of one of the many faces of Bayon

Bayon Temple

One of the most popular temples in Siem Reap is definitely Bayon, the temple with over 200 faces. We ended up spontaneously booking a tour guide here who gave us a wonderful photo tour and some history. It was one of our favorite temples in this complex and pretty amazing to walk through. It does get quite crowded unless you go early in the morning. We spent around 2 hours here which was perfect, but you can adjust as you wish.

Baphuon, The Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King, Phimeanakas in Royal Palace

There are many temples close to Bayon which makes it easy to see more. Baphuon is a 3-level temple built for the god Shiva. It looks a bit like a pyramid and you can climb to the top. We briefly walked to the entrance, but due to lack of time we chose not to climb. Right in front of the temple are the Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King. These can be seen in a short amount of time. Next to it is Phimeanakas in Royal Palace and we did all 3 in less than an hour. The beauty is you can customize this tour as you wish, this is merely just a guide and overview of what we saw.

Ta Keo and Pre Rup

On the way to Ta Phrom we stopped at Ta Keo and Pre Rup. Ta Keo is a really tall temple and the climb up is quite scary. The stairs are still rustic and not very wide, so you almost have to climb up while holding onto the side. It’s not very kid-friendly so our daughter did not go up with us. Once at the top though it truly does have some wonderful views!

After Ta Keo we briefly stopped at Pre Rup. This is a great one to see during sunset, since it has a reddish color from the brick. We did not get to spend as much as we’d like to here, an hour would have been perfect.

Inside a more quiet part of Ta Prohm temple

Ta Prohm

The last temple of the day is Ta Prohm aka the Tomb Raider temple. We made a brief stop for lunch at one of the restaurants nearby, then started our tour. We spent around 2-3 hours here which was sufficient and didn’t feel rushed. The tree interweaving throughout the temple structure was so interesting to see. All of the famous photo spots get overwhelmingly crowded, so we recommend actually walking around and discovering some off the beaten path areas. They are just as intriguing to see and without all the tourists waiting to take the perfect shot.

Pub Street

We wrapped up our full day temple tour around 5pm. You could head somewhere to watch the sunset, Sra Srang and Pre Rup are a few options. Or you could head to Pub Street to eat and shop the night markets. Since we were pretty templed out for the day, we decided to check out one of the night markets within Siem Reap. We also grabbed some pizza at Flying Zebra Pizza, a perfect casual place for families. Walking the street is an experience in itself, with the markets, fish massage places, vendors selling street food like bugs, and an overload of neon decor. You must stop here at least once during your time here!

The beautiful pink sandstone and details of Banteay Srei

Day 3: Banteay Srei, Koh Ker, Beng Mealea, Phnom Bakheng Sunset

After a few days in Siem Reap, you’ll be ready for the temples further away. With these ones you’ll need a car since they are outside the city. Our tuk tuk driver included the transportation in our 3 day package after customizing what we wanted to see, but you could also book a separate tour just for this day.

Banteay Srei

The day starts around 8am where you’ll head to Banteay Srei, one of my favorite temples out of all that we’ve seen. Nicknamed the “Citadel of Woman,” it’s made out of pink sandstone with intricate Khmer artisan details all throughout. It takes about 30 minutes to get here by car and is a lot less crowded than the temples within the main Angkor park. We spent about 1.5 hours here which was the right amount of time.

Koh Ker

The next temple stop of the day is Koh Ker, located within a remote jungle in Preah Vihear. The drive there is another 1.5 hours, but it’s definitely worth the trip. There is still a lot undiscovered in this temple complex due to landmines still prevalent around some parts. It’s a bit of a walk through ruins in order to reach the 7-tiered main pyramid structure, and a steep walk up several flights of stairs to the top. Along the way you’ll hear nothing but the sounds of the jungle all around, so it feels like quite an adventure. Luckily since we had family with us, our daughter stayed behind to rest. We spent a little over an hour here and felt it was sufficient, although it’s always nice to have more time!

Overview of the ruins of Beng Mealea temple

Beng Mealea

After our time at Koh Ker we had lunch nearby the next spot. Another temple that feels straight out of a movie is Beng Mealea. It feels very similar to Ta Prohm, with overgrown tree roots vines overtaking the temple ruins. There has not been much renovated here except a walkway to guide you through this mysterious maze. Inside the temple it’s very green with a lot of moss and trees growing within. It’s a spectacular sight to see and one you don’t want to miss here. We truly enjoyed these further temples even more so than the usual ones, especially with less people.

Phnom Bakheng Sunset

To finish off a busy day exploring the temples you’ll watch the sunset at Phnom Bakheng temple. Because we had to drive from Beng Mealea temple, which takes about 1.5 hours, we could not get here too early. It’s recommended to start lining up on the mountain at 4:30pm in order to be in the group of 300 people that can go up at a time. We got here around 5pm and just made it in time to watch the last bit of the sunset. Although this is quite touristy, it was definitely one of those things you’ll want to do here. Some great alternate sunset spots are Sra Srang, Pre Rup, and even Angkor Wat.

Explore more: A Guide on Siem Reap Temples

The energy of Pub street at night

Last Night in Siem Reap

The full day of temples had us pretty exhausted, but we wanted to make the most of our last night in Siem Reap. So we headed out to Pub Street again for food and check out more of the nightlife. If you’re feeling up to it you could do a street food tour like this one. In the tour you’ll get to sample authentic snacks (including bugs!), desserts, and Khmer cuisine.

Looking for more ideas on what to do in Siem Reap? Here are a few options!
• Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour: A 6 hour tour to the “Holy Mountain” of Phnom Kulen National Park where you’ll see the River of a Thousand Lingas and the statue of the Grand Reclining Buddha. You’ll also get to relax in the pools by Phnom Kulen Waterfall. A relaxing escape from the city!
• Phare Circus Show: This came highly recommended and we are sad to have missed it. It’s a performance of modern theater and traditional Cambodian performing art, and proceeds help to support local artists. A great family activity for the evening!

Day 4: Siem Reap and Phnom Penh

The morning of Day 4 wraps up our time in Siem Reap. We had a bit of time in the morning, so we decided to head back to Angkor Wat to explore some of the parts we missed. You could do whatever you’d like with this time, even explore another temple you haven’t seen! During our second visit we were lucky to be able to be blessed by a monk. It happened to be a Buddhist holiday, so there were a few monks within the temple giving blessings. It was a nice surprise and unique experience to have.

Terra enjoying the corridors of Angkor Wat

The back area of Angkor Wat

Afterwards we said our goodbyes to Roben, our amazing tuk tuk driver who took care of us all three days. The rest of the day was basically travel to Phnom Penh by bus. If you’d like to save some time you can fly, but we decided to take the bus for the experience and to see a bit more of the country. We booked a Cambodia Post VIP minivan which went pretty smoothly without issues. Booking transport in Cambodia is a bit of a hit or miss, but we only had good experiences with this company. You can book online through BookMeBus.

See more on our adventure here: 3 Days in Siem Reap

Farm to Table restaurant interior

Arrival in Phnom Penh

Since we arrived in Phnom Penh around 6pm, we really didn’t get to see much. If you want to adjust this itinerary you could add an extra night here. For us it was merely a stopping point to get to the next location. The Killing Fields and S21 Prison are two important parts of Cambodian history. Although we really wanted to visit, since we had our daughter with us we did not feel it was appropriate to take her at such a young age. Therefore we have saved more of Phnom Penh for a return trip.

Where to Eat in Phnom Penh

We did have a lovely dinner while here. A local had recommended Farm to Table, a rather eclectic spot with locally sourced food that was healthy and fresh. It was a nice change from all the usual cuisine we had on the trip so far. Around the restaurants were chickens freely roaming about, which made for an interesting meal. The seating was super comfortable since we chose a set of couches around a table. It almost felt like dining in someone’s charming backyard. Definitely recommend for something that isn’t traditional Cambodian cuisine.

Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

There are so many options for hotels in Phnom Penh that it can be a bit overwhelming to choose just one. But after many hours of digging around reviews, I ended up choosing TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel for it’s location and value. Since we had a 7am bus trip the next morning we wanted to be close enough for a smoother morning. The hotel itself wasn’t luxury by any means, but definitely a solid choice for those who are looking for a budget option. They even packed our breakfast super early so we could eat during the ride.

Staying in Phnom Penh longer? Here are a few options for what to see!
• Phnom Penh Half Day Tour: A 4 hour tour of the Royal Palace, National Musuem and Wat Phnom including an English speaking guide.
• Mekong Islands Bike Tour: 4.5 hour half day tour exploring rural communities by bike gaining insight into the lives of locals. Includes transportation, bottled water and lunch.

The Mondulkiri Project main building and protected forest

Days 5-7: Elephant Sanctuary and Nature Lodge in Mondulkiri

The next morning begins the long 6 hour journey to Mondulkiri Province, all the way on the eastern part of the country bordering Vietnam. Although it’s out of the way, it was definitely one of the most memorable travel experiences we’ve had.

How to Get to Sen Monorom

From Phnom Penh

I booked the first TCT Mondulkiri Express bus from Phnom Penh through BookMeBus so we would arrive in Sen Monorom around 1pm. The cost was around $10 USD per person for a one-way ticket. The trip takes between 5-6 hours and is rather bumpy. In Cambodia you’ll notice there are a lot of accidents along the way, we witnessed a few just in this trip! I read many bad reviews from bus companies here, but TCT got the best reviews overall.

From Siem Reap

You can also go straight to Mondulkiri from Siem Reap. The trip is between 8-9 hours and costs around $20 USD per person. We highly recommend not booking an overnight bus as it’s not the safest with road conditions. Try to book an early time so you can get there by afternoon.

Getting to Your Hotel

Once you arrive in Sen Monorom, you can take a tuk tuk to the eco lodge. Just let them know the name of the place or show the address and they should know it.

Bungalow at the Tree Lodge

View of the bungalows from the main terrace

Walking the lodge path during sunset

Where to Stay in Sen Monorom

Lodging is pretty slim in Sen Monorom, but definitely a unique experience. We booked with Tree Lodge Cambodia, a totally awesome eco nature lodge within the jungle. Since the owner of this also manages the elephant sanctuary, it was very convenient, especially with kids! We got a bit of extra sleep and enjoyed breakfast before they drove us straight to the sanctuary.

Our bungalow wasn’t fancy by any means, but the perfect relaxing experience with sounds of wildlife all around. The sunsets here were glorious, and we loved spending our evenings watching it from the main terrace. We had geckos join us for dinner, avocado and banana trees right outside our place, and breathed in the freshest forest air. This will definitely be a highlight of your trip and one you’ll never forget.

Looking for additional options? See more.

Terra and dad feeding the elephant

Up close and personal with one of the elephants

Giving one of the elephants a bath, she loved it!

Mondulkiri Project

The main reason we came all the way to Sen Monorom was to see an elephant sanctuary. But I wanted to make sure it was an ethical one, so after some research I came across the Mondulkiri Project. They have five elephants that roam a protected forest area. They also employ locals and help the community rather than cause harm. The owner, Mr. Tree, is very passionate about conservation and taking care of wildlife. You will learn more about this organization and the local Bunong tribe at the beginning of the tour.

The Elephant Sanctuary

They also offer 1-2 day elephant sanctuary packages. One option is just spending the day with elephants. You’ll first be introduced to all of them and hear a little about their personalities. Then you’ll be able to feed and interact with them a bit in their natural surroundings. After this will be a brief lunch break of Khmer cuisine. Then you’ll get an hour to rest in the hammocks with beautiful views of the jungle. The day ends with bathing the elephants and taking a final walk through the forest.

This was an unforgettable experience and learning experience for us. It was refreshing to see the passion involved with caring for the elephants and forest. Read more about our experience at this ethical elephant sanctuary in Cambodia.

Tree Lodge Cambodia

After spending a long and incredible day at the elephant sanctuary, we headed back to the lodge for another night. Because there was a restaurant right there we were able to eat and enjoy the sunset over the terrace. They had a combo of both Khmer and Western cuisine which was a nice variety. Also available were fresh fruit shakes and other drinks at such a great price! We loved our lazy nights here hanging in the jungle with nature.

Beautiful sunrise at Fish Island Bungalows

Days 7-8: Kampot

The next morning we left around 7am on a bus back to Phnom Penh. We had planned to transfer to another bus there to head to Kampot, all the way on the opposite side of the country. However the bus was cancelled. Thankfully I had some backup options and contacted the same taxi driver who would be driving us to Sihanoukville the following day. Fortunately he came to the rescue and we made it there! Kampot was another stopping point on the way to Koh Rong Sanloem, and we wished it was more than that. In a mere 24 hours here we saw a lot and instantly fell in love.

Where to Stay in Kampot, Cambodia

There are a lot of great options of places to stay in Kampot. I had a hard time choosing, but ended up booking Fish Island Bungalows. It’s a family-owned place with exceptional service. They also made the best home-cooked food with a delicious breakfast included. If you love charming places with an authentic flavor, then you’ll definitely enjoy your stay here. You’ll be well taken care of by Mr. Leng and his family. He even brought us into town and helped us buy some pepper at a local market, and also to see the salt fields.

How to Get to Kampot

The easiest way to get to Kampot is by bus from Phnom Penh. You can also take a private taxi, which is what we ended up doing. Since buses are not fully reliable, we recommend going by private car. It’ll be most comfortable too. There’s also a train that goes from Phnom Penh, but it takes much longer and is on a restricted schedule. It does offer some nice views of the countryside though along the journey.

Entrance to Wat Traeuy Kaoh on Fish Island, Cambodia

What to Do in Kampot

Kampot is a rather sleepy town, but still has a lot to see and do. There is a lot of French colonial influence in the architecture here. You can see a lot of it while visiting the old market. Since this region is known for their pepper, visiting a pepper plantation is a must if you’re here for longer than a day. You can also go on a sunset and firefly cruise along the river, and rent a motorobike to visit Kep.

There are salt fields here as well and catching a glimpse before they harvest during sunrise or sunset is the best way to see them. Bokor National Park is just a short trip away with beautiful forests, Buddhist wats, and stunning views from Bokor Mountain. Along the river is lively with street food, shops and floating restaurants. These are just a few ideas of what to do while here. See how we spent less than 24 hours in Kampot.

Blue boat along the beach in Cambodia

Days 8-10: Koh Rong Sanloem

After spending the night in the relaxing Fish Island area of Kampot, we departed for our final destination. Ending this super packed 10 days in Cambodia with some beach time is the perfect way to wind down. Luckily the trip from Kampot only takes less than 2 hours, and in no time you’ll set foot in paradise.

How to Get to Koh Rong Sanloem

It’s fairly easy to get to the islands of Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem. There are ferries that depart from the pier in Sihanoukville quite frequently. Depending on where you are staying will determine which ferry to take. Most dropoff in Saracen Bay, the most busy and easily accessible part of the island. We recommend staying here if you have kids for the ease and convenience.

We ended up taking Speed Ferry Cambodia which dropped us off at Paradise Pier, a few minute walk from our resort. Some other ferries to take are Island Speed Ferry, GTVC Speedboat, and Buva Sea. You can also take the slow boat, although this takes much longer and we do not recommend.

Where to Stay in Koh Rong Sanloem

Koh Rong Sanloem has several areas to stay with different vibes. The most popular area is Saracen Bay, which is the easiest to get to. There is also Lazy Beach on the other side of the island which requires an additional boat service, or a walk through the jungle to get to. Sunset Beach is another area with more secluded Robinson Crusoe type feel. M’Pai Bay is another area popular with budget travelers and backpackers. It’s a great choice for those looking for more of a party scene.

We stayed at Sky Beach Resort, a fairly new place with only five bungalows. They arrange a variety of tours for snorkeling and glowing plankton and had free stand-up paddle boards to use. They had basic lounge chairs on the beach, but would have been nice if they had hammocks as well. There’s a restaurant and small mini-mart here which was very convenient. Overall we loved our stay and it was very easy to get to from the pier.

What to Do in Koh Rong Sanloem

Other than relaxing on the beach, there’s a lot to do on the island. You could do many water activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkeling. There are several hikes to do around the island and to other parts. Certain resorts have seafood BBQ dinners which is fun and delicious. You can also go on a glowing plankton tour at night after dinner. We did a day long boat tour to M’Pai Bay Village and spent time there watching the sunset. Either way you’ll have an amazing time on this remote paradise! See more details in our guide to Koh Rong Sanloem island.

Terra jumping for joy on the beautiful beach of Koh Rong Sanloem

The Best 10 Days in Cambodia

Cambodia is a wonderful country with a lot of beauty to discover. This 10 day itinerary covers a lot of different areas, but there is still so much more to see. Next time we would love to explore Battambang, Phnom Penh, Kratie and the northern parts near Thailand. It’s such a kid-friendly place and your kids will enjoy the mix of everything. The warmth and kindness of the people shines through and will forever change you. There are many reasons to go to Cambodia, and we hope this guide helps to inspire your next trip!

Have you been to Cambodia? If so, we’d love to hear more about your trip!

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I was in awe. The moment we got off the plane in Cambodia, I instantly fell in love. If you’re planning to travel to Cambodia, you’re in for quite a ride. It’s filled with so much beauty and history beyond the Angkor temples. The people show such strength and kindness. We truly got a taste of the entire country. Our 10 day itinerary took us from the ancient wonders of Siem Reap, to the jungle of Mondulkiri, and ended with relaxation in Kampot and Koh Rong Sanloem. There are many reasons to fall in love with this country, but here are some reasons why we did.

Travel to Cambodia: Here’s Why You Should Go

Are you deciding whether to go to Cambodia? We’ve put together a list of reasons to visit there, and why we’d love to go back. We even brought our 3 year old daughter with us, and she loved it! It’s a one-of-a-kind special place and once you go, you’ll know why.

Closeup details of Banteay Srei temple

The Wonder of the Siem Reap Temples

The first and obvious reason why you should travel to Cambodia are the Angkor temples. You truly can’t visit here without seeing them. We spent 3 days exploring a variety of them, and each one is unique. It’s incredible to see these ancient structures up close and personal. The detail and love is clearly shown in the carvings and bas reliefs. It’s no surprise why these are UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll have an unforgettable experience discovering each one, regardless of the crowds. If it’s not already on your bucket list, this post will help with that!

Wondering which ones to see? 13 Siem Reap Temples Worth Visiting

The gorgeous sunrise at Angkor Wat, so worth it!

Angkor Wat Sunrise

One of my main goals for traveling to Cambodia was to watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Yes you have to get up at 4am in order to get a good spot, but trust me it’s so worth it! Seeing Angkor Wat is already amazing enough. But watching the beautiful warm rays of the sun slowly rising from behind is mindblowing. And what’s even better? You get to explore the temple during the most magical time. The early morning sun makes for some beautiful lighting. And droolworthy shots. It doesn’t get any better than that!

See more: How to Capture the Angkor Wat Sunrise

A friendly street food vendor outside Angkor Wat

The Warmth of the Locals

I have heard great things about the people of Cambodia. But I didn’t expect to come across such an incredible welcome. Historically, the culture has been through so much tragedy. But the inner strength and bravery shines through. Every local we came across was very kind and welcoming to us. They were so great with our daughter and we were well taken care of. You will truly enjoy the culture here, and the people make it even more memorable. Take time to get to know some of the locals, they have quite the stories to tell.

Roben, our tuk tuk driver in Siem Reap

The Tuk Tuks

I absolutely loved going on the tuk tuks in Cambodia. There’s nothing like feeling that refreshing breeze after spending time in the heat. It was also so cool watching the life go by as you sit back and relax. I’ll forever remember all the outside smells while riding along. For the temples, we booked our tuk tuk driver in advance at a set price, which made it much easier while we were there. But there is definitely no shortage of them around the cities!

Some street food vendors along Pub Street

The Night Markets

Like most Asian countries, night markets are everywhere. Siem Reap is full of several of them to explore. Pub Street is one of the most popular spots to hang, and really comes alive at night. There are unique foods to try (like bugs!) and plenty to see. Get your feet massaged by fish, or shop for some souvenirs. It’s always a cool experience, and Southeast Asia is known for them.

A sampling of curries and amok in Siem Reap

The Exotic Food

Khmer cuisine has such wonderful flavor. The famous fish amok was full of interesting aromas and also so comforting. The curries were very mild and sweet, not spicy like those of Thailand. Dishes were typically served with a side of rice. One snack you must try is sticky rice. It’s typically sold along the streets in Siem Reap, and it’s just the perfect blend of flavors. Everything we had tasted extremely fresh, flavorful, and healthy. Also, the fruit is just incredible, some of the best I’ve had. And make sure to try a fruit shake! I must have had one every day. You really can’t go wrong with any of the food in Cambodia.

Overall view over Kompong Khleang floating village

The Floating Villages

There is more to do in Siem Reap beyond the temples. Along the Tonle Sap are several floating village communities. During dry season the water level is low, so many of the homes aren’t as submerged. Some of these villages are tourist traps though. But we did some research and found the perfect responsible choice in Kompong Khleang. It’s truly fascinating to get a glimpse into the way of life here. You’ll have an eye opening experience, and witness a gorgeous sunset on the Tonle Sap.

Learn more: Kompong Khleang Floating Village

One of the elephants roaming free at the Mondulkiri Project

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Deep into the eastern side of the country is the Mondulkiri Province. You can take a bus here from Phnom Penh and it’s a 6 hour journey. The area is beautiful and filled with dense jungle, home to indigenous Bunong tribes. There are also several elephant sanctuaries here to visit. We spent the day at the Mondulkiri Project to visit one. It’s a wonderful initiative to help preserve the forest in Sen Monorom and provide a protected home for the animals. You’ll spend the day in the jungle feeding, and bathing the elephants as they roam freely. And feel good about such a great cause too. How’s that for a bucket list idea?

Discover more about the project: Best Elephant Sanctuary in Cambodia

The view of the eco lodge in Sen Monorom, Cambodia

Jungle Eco Lodge

While you’re visiting the elephant sanctuary, take some time to unplug in nature. During our time in Sen Monorom, we stayed at a nature lodge surrounded by the beautiful jungle. It was quite remote, and we had the unique opportunity of falling asleep to wildlife sounds. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a busy itinerary at the temples in Siem Reap. We booked Tree Lodge Cambodia, which is owned by the same family who started the Mondulkiri Project. They have a restaurant and terrace with stunning views, and wifi for those who need it. At just $15 per night, how can you go wrong?

View of the empty salt fields in Kampot

Salt Fields in Kampot

Did you know there are salt fields in Kampot? Apparently sea salt production is pretty big here. Located within a rural area along dusty dirt roads are these magnificent salt fields. It’s a beautiful sight to see during sunrise or sunset. Kampot is such a serene and chill town, there’s so much more to explore. Definitely don’t leave here without trying some Kampot pepper, or even visit a pepper plantation. It’s the best pepper we’ve had! It was so wonderful here and we hope to return back someday.

See more: One Day in Kampot, Cambodia

A hammock at our jungle lodge in Mondulkiri

The Hammocks

Hammocks are a way of life in Cambodia. You can find them everywhere. We saw them hung beneath homes, within tuk tuks, and designated resting stations. It’s a daily routine here to take naps after lunch. I never truly appreciated just how comfortable they are until coming here. I can definitely get used to spending some time in one everyday. Can you imagine taking a break from work just to relax in a hammock? It’s a genius concept!

The beautiful Saracen Bay in Koh Rong Sanloem

Remote Islands of Paradise

The coastal town of Sihanoukville gives access to two remote islands. Koh Rong and Koh Rong Sanloem are about an hour ferry ride from the pier. While Koh Rong is more of a party island, Koh Rong Sanloem is a much more remote and quiet escape. We stayed on Saracen Bay for a few days to end our long trip. The island is so beautiful and still has an untouched feel. You can snorkel, sunbathe, and swim with glowing plankton at night. M’Pai Bay Village was such a funky and artsy village in a more isolated part of the island. It’s just pure bliss staying here, you will not want to leave!

Visit Cambodia for an Unforgettable Experience

We hope this list helped you decide on travel to Cambodia. If it’s not already on your bucket list, I’m sure it is now! It’s truly just a beautiful country with so much variety. There is still even more to see beyond this list, so book a trip now and discover for yourself. You won’t regret it!

Start planning your trip with our Complete 10 Day Guide to Cambodia.

Have you been to Cambodia? Did you fall in love with it too? We’d love to hear more in the comments!

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Every year millions of tourists flock to Cambodia to see the Siem Reap temples. The Angkor Wat temple complex is one of the largest religious sites in the world, with ongoing restoration. Exploring these ancient structures is truly an amazing experience, regardless of the crowds. Between the magnificence of Angkor Wat, to the mystery of Ta Prohm, each temple is unique and worth exploring. But for a first timer here, you may be wondering, which ones should I see? So we’ve rounded up some of our favorites. We were able to see these in just 3 short days during our family trip to Cambodia. But if you have more time, they will definitely be a great starting point.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

13 Siem Reap Temples Worth Visiting

In This Article
Angkor Wat Temple Passes
Tips On Visiting the Temples
Siem Reap Temples: 3 Day Guide

Angkor Wat Temple Passes

Before entering the Angkor Wat temple complex, you must buy a pass. There are 1 day ($37), 3 day ($62) and 7 day ($72) pass options to choose from. If you plan to see the sunrise at Angkor Wat, we recommend buying the day before. This is so you’ll have the passes ready and go straight to the temple gate. Here’s more info on the passes.

Carvings at Angkor Wat temple

Tips Before Visiting the Temples

There are a few things to keep in mind while visiting the temples.

1. Dress conservatively: The temples are religious sites and you want to be respectful. Have your legs or shoulders covered, for women maxi skirts or harem pants work great.

2. Go early: Although you may not be a morning person, the early bird gets the worm in this case. Going early helps you beat the crowds and get nicer shots. It also gets very hot later in the day. So you definitely don’t want to be out exploring in the heat.

3. Take time to explore: Let’s be honest, the Angkor temples do attract quite the crowds. But there are always more quiet parts with practically nobody around. You just have to look for them. Take some time to walk around and go off the beaten path. I got so many great shots by doing this.

4. Don’t try to rush it: Spend more quality time at each temple, even if you see less of them. There’s so much detail to see, especially at the larger ones.

5. Customize your tour: The small and grand circuit tours are quite common. Consider doing the reverse route in order to avoid crowds. Ask your guide or tuk tuk driver for recommendations.

Siem Reap Temples: A 3 Day Guide

There are so many Siem Reap temples to explore within the Angkor complex. It can be overwhelming trying to decide what to see in the time you have. Here we’ve rounded up our favorites from our trip.

See more: How to Spend 3 Days in Siem Reap

Walking towards Angkor Wat from the front gate

Beautiful corridor of Angkor Wat

Looking up towards the mighty towers of Angkor Wat

Admire the magnificence of Angkor Wat

Visiting Angkor Wat is a must while in Siem Reap. Built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century, Angkor Wat is one of the largest and now considered a Unesco World Heritage site. Like many of the others there are beautiful bas reliefs and details to admire here. The Khmer architecture is quite stunning, and not to be missed.

We entered here from both the back and the front. You need at least 2-3 hours to fully take in everything. You can also climb to the central towers for stunning views from above. The best part is discovering those empty and quiet hallways and nooks throughout. The lighting in the morning was so magical. You can book a tuk tuk or tour in advance along with a guide, which comes in handy as you explore the temple complex.

Tip: The towers are closed on Buddhist holidays, so plan ahead for that. You may get lucky and be able to be blessed by a monk on these special days as well.

Explore more: How to Capture Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Entering the South Gate of Angkor Thom

Walk through the South Gate at Angkor Thom

Entering the South Gate at Angkor Thom is such a cool experience. There are all kinds of transportation entering at once. It was pretty crowded by the time we got there, so early morning is best to get a quiet view. Angkor Thom was built by King Jayavarman VII around the 12th century.

It’s a large complex surrounded by walls and a moat with bridges that lead you inside each gate. Along each side of the entrance to the South Gate are devas (gods) and asuras (demons). They represent the “Churning of the Ocean of Milk”, an ancient Hindu story about immortality. There are faces and mythical creatures on the entry tower, also repeated throughout the temples.

Entering Bayon temple

View of one of the towers

More faces!

Check out the faces of Bayon

One of the first temples you’ll come across through the gate is Bayon. This was one of our favorite temples. It’s located in the exact center of the capital to represent the core of the universe. It evolved into a Hindu temple after the death of King Jayavarman VII.

The most recognizable part are the 200 or so faces carved into the stone towers. They seem to be looking at you from every angle as you explore, as if you’re being watched. They all had a peaceful smile, possibly symbolizing a state of nirvana.

The temple consists of three levels with bas reliefs on the outer and inner galleries. These scenes depict war, daily life, and other ancient stories. It’s not difficult to find quiet areas of the temple despite the crowds. Like most places, it’s always best to come in early morning to avoid the peak amount of tourists.

Private Transport
Cambodia can get extremely hot and humid, even early in the day. This tour by car provides transportation in a van with A/C for a full day of temples, as well as your own guide. It’s the most comfortable way to temple hop, and perfect for families!

Looking towards Baphoun Temple

Explore the beauty of Baphuon

Built in the 11th century, Baphuon is a three-tiered temple built for the Hindu god Shiva. You can climb to the top, however due to lack of time and the heat, we decided to just briefly walk by. It looked so grand we wish we could have seen more of it. You will need at least an hour here to fully explore.

Closeup details of the elephant sculptures at Terrace of the Elephants temple

The Terrace of the Leper King as we briefly walked by

Pass by the Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King

The Royal Terraces are located right near Baphuon and consist of the Terrace of the Elephants and Leper King. These are likely where public events and parades were held. There are carvings of elephant heads along the walls, and a statue of a “Leper King” on the terrace. Along the walls are carvings and reliefs of animals, warriors, apsaras and horses. They are quite small and can easily be explored in less than an hour.

The tall stairs up Ta Keo Temple

View from the top of Ta Keo temple

Climb the stairs of Ta Keo

Ta Keo is one of the tallest in the complex. It has a rather unfinished feel to it and isn’t a common one to see. It’s definitely worth a look, and make sure to climb the stairs to the top. From way up there you’ll be rewarded with some amazing views. We noticed this one was less crowded than some of the others, so it’s a nice escape. The top is extremely hot, so bring plenty of cold water!

Tip: Use caution when climbing. The stairs are rather rustic and very short, so be careful.

The beautiful temple of Pre Rup

Check out the reddish tones of Pre Rup

Since it’s constructed out of brick and laterite, Pre Rup has a gorgeous reddish tone color. It was built by King Rajendravarman and dates all the way back to 961! The name means “turning the body” and this temple might have been used for cremation purposes. There are five towers here, with a stairway leading atop a pyramid structure. The views here are spectacular during sunset, but it’s a popular spot to be.

Exploring the ruins of Ta Prohm

Root overtaking part of the temple

Quiet and uncrowded relief in Ta Prohm temple

Witness the power of nature at Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm, also known as the “Tomb Raider” temple is quite a glorious one to see. You should allow at least a few hours here to see most of it. It’s quite amazing to see all of the tree roots overtaking the temple ruins. It does get quite crowded, so there will be some queues for those famous shots.

As we explored deeper we found some parts with nobody around. It truly felt like being in a movie for a moment. The moss and greenery from the trees combined with the earthy stone was just beautiful. Not to mention all the delightful carvings and details. It’s totally understandable why so many people go here. Nature is just incredible isn’t it?

If you’re an adventure lover, you should totally check out this jeep tour of the temples. It’s the perfect way to get around, and allows you to have fresh air and convenience. Definitely booking this when we go back!

Closeup detail of the carvings at Banteay Srei

Overall view of the beautiful pink sandstone temple

Take in the ornate beauty of Banteay Srei

Next up is Banteay Srei, a Hindu temple also called the “Citadel of Women.” It’s about a 30 minute drive by car from Siem Reap and well worth the trip. Since it’s made out of pink sandstone, the colors here are so unique. It’s not too large, but the details are so intricate that you can easily spend hours here. We noticed several lintels, with mystical creatures guarding the towers.

To explore, you pretty much walk around a rectangular area, with the towers within the center. It’s one of the most detailed temples we have seen, and the Khmer craftwork truly shines here. The whole site felt very enchanting as the forest surrounds it.

Tip: Take a brief break to check out the band playing behind the temple. They are land mine victims trying to earn money to support their families.

Closeup detail of Beng Mealea temple

View of Beng Mealea temple from higher up

The mystical stone ruins of Beng Mealea

Uncover the jungle temple of Beng Mealea

Entering Beng Mealea temple will make you feel like you’re discovering it for the first time. It’s fully immersed within the jungle, and is a wonder to see. It’s one of the few that still remains relatively untouched. You can get a glimpse at how it might have been years ago. Similar to Ta Prohm, there are roots, vines and trees all interweaving throughout. Absolutely loved the vibes here, and you will too.

The 1.5 hour drive here was totally worth it. Combined with Koh Ker, it makes for an awesome day trip. Because it’s further away, this temple tends to be less crowded. There’s a walkway along the inside and outside which makes most of it pretty accessible now. You will notice a lot of greenery, moss and crumbling stone as you walk through. We spent a few hours exploring, which felt perfect. Not to mention, we did have to race back to make it in time for our sunset plans!

Note: You must buy a separate pass for this temple. The cost is $5.

Explore off the beaten path
There are some amazing temples to see that are off the beaten path. You’ll love exploring in this tour which brings you to Koh Ker, Preah Vihear, Prasat Balang 2 and more. It also includes transportation and a guide. Perfect for photographers like myself.

The massive pyramid of Koh Ker

Ascend the tall pyramid of Koh Ker

Another off the beaten path temple to see is Koh Ker. It’s very remote, located within the jungle of Preah Vihear about 2.5 hours away from Siem Reap. You will hear sounds of the forest here as you reach the massive structure of Koh Ker. During wet season, it’s quite a beauty seeing the greenery covering the temple. You will walk through some other crumbling ruins of the temple before reaching the pyramid. It’s so amazing seeing it suddenly appear before you.

Six tiring flights of stairs will take you to the top. Once there you’ll be able to admire the forest all around. In the distance we saw some rural homes and glimpses of some of the other temples in the complex. Not all of them are accessible, since the area around still may contain land mines. Like Beng Mealea, we truly enjoyed the untouched feel of this place.

Note: You must buy a separate pass for this temple. The cost is $10.

Detail of some of the towers of Phnom Bakheng

Sunset over the landscape from Phnom Bakheng

Watch the sunset over Phnom Bakheng

Lastly is the beautiful Phnom Bakheng atop Bakheng Mountain. It’s quite the treasure and a stunning sight at sunset. You must hike about 20 minutes up the mountain to reach it. The temple itself consists of 7 levels with several towers that have collapsed.

Once you reach the top the views are just amazing. You can see Angkor Wat from afar, and also the hot air balloon. The sun setting across the land is a sight not to miss. It’s definitely one of those touristy things that is worth the effort.

Tip: Only 300 people are allowed up at a time here for sunset. So we recommend to get here by 4pm in order to be guaranteed a prime viewing spot. Because we arrived around 5pm, we got here just in time as the sun went down.

Siem Reap temples will leave you in awe

There is so much rich history to admire in the Angkor temples. It’s definitely a dream exploring these ancient wonders. We merely scratched the surface of the temple complex. There is still so much to explore here, and yet to be discovered. You will be forever changed when you experience the spirit of the Khmer culture. If it’s not on your bucket list, I’m sure it is now!

Discover more: Reasons to Travel to Cambodia

So which out of the temples was your favorite? We’d love to hear!

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Kampot, Cambodia is a serene riverside town in the southern part of the country. We enjoyed a brief, but incredible 24 hours here. As soon as we arrived we were hooked. I added it to our itinerary to make travel to Koh Rong Sanloem the next day much easier. It was also an added bonus to see another part of the country. Now that we’ve visited, we are so glad we chose to stay here. It was a beautiful and relaxing time away from the bustle of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Find out why we instantly fell in love with this town, and be inspired with ideas on what to do here.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

How to Spend 24 Hours in Kampot, Cambodia

In This Article
How to Get to Kampot
Where to Stay in Kampot
Things to Do in Kampot
Where to Eat in Kampot
Why We Loved Kampot Cambodia

Stunning views of the Elephant Mountains all around Kampot

How to Get to Kampot

By Bus: You can take several buses from other major cities to Kampot. We booked via BookMeBus on the Kampot Express from Phnom Penh. The trip takes about 3 hours from Phnom Penh, and 12 hours from Siem Reap. From Sihanoukville it’s only two hours. Definitely make sure to read reviews before booking, some buses are not the best.

By Taxi: Another option is to take a private taxi there. We booked through Mr. Dara who actually came to the rescue and made sure we got to Kampot after our bus was delayed to a much later time. His email is darac2678@gmail.com. There are also several other private taxis around Phnom Penh, or you can always book ahead of time on BookMeBus.

By Train: There is a train that runs from Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville to Kampot. It typically only runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday so make sure to check the schedule. It doesn’t take much longer by train, and it’s much more safe. There are always wonderful views from the window as well.

View from our room at Fish Island Bungalows

Where to Stay in Kampot

While there are several great and affordable options to stay in Kampot, we ended up booking Fish Island Bungalows. They are owned and managed by Mr. Leng and his family who went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. He gave tips on what to see, brought us to the market to buy the best authentic pepper, and took us on an excursion to the salt fields, at no extra charge. They provide free breakfast with your stay which included fresh eggs, fresh fruit, toast, and homemade passion fruit jam. We also grabbed a light dinner here which tasted amazing.

Mr. Leng, the kind and welcoming owner of Fish Island Bungalows

The bungalow surroundings were beautiful and charming. It’s located on Fish Island, a short trip from the main center of Kampot. Next door was a fishing village and we loved seeing what daily local life was like. You can also see gorgeous views of the river from the rooftop area, as well as our bungalow. The grounds were covered with a wonderful array of plants and flowers and it felt so cozy. Our stay was so incredible, we only wish we had booked a longer time here.

Other Options to Stay

If there’s no availability at Fish Island Bungalows, or if you want something different here’s some other lodging options to consider in Kampot.

Eden Eco Village: An eco resort with bungalows overlooking a garden or the river. Between $20-$30 per night.

Gecko Village: A remote resort with a pool and beautiful views of the river and mountains. All rooms have a balcony and breakfast is included. Between $20-$50 per night.

Retro Kampot Guesthouse: Beautiful bungalows located next to a mangrove with an onsite bar and restaurant. $15-20 per night.

Samon Village: Very rustic treehouse style bungalows located right on the river. Comes with private or shared bathrooms, however not all rooms have a hot shower. $25-$80 per night.

Mea Culpa Kampot: More modern rooms with a beautiful garden and terrace for guest use. Has on-site restaurant with local cuisine. $25-$35 per night.

Le Bokor Palace: The most modern option in the area in a beautiful palace on top of a mountain. Has stunning views and some rooms even have a view of the sea. There are free bikes to use and buffet breakfast is included.

Looking for additional options? See more.

Things to Do in Kampot

There is plenty to see and do in Kampot. Although we were only here for about a day, we made the most of it. In addition, we will also share some other options of things to do that we didn’t have time for, but were recommended by locals.

Walking down one of the streets in the center of Kampot

Walk Around the Old Market

Because Kampot used to be under French rule, there’s a lot of beautiful French colonial architecture in the region. You will see a lot of this while walking around the old market part of the town. Although the buildings are weathered and run down, it still has a nice charm to it. The texture gives a lot of character and great photography opportunities. There’s also some beautiful pastel colors on some of them, which looks lovely at sunset.

Beautiful views along the river, perfect to relax!

Watch the Sunset Along the River

Another thing to do is to walk along the river, relax and watch the sunset. There are several boats here that offer sunset tours. The views are just amazing and you can see the Elephant Mountains in the distance. It’s also fun to watch the boats go by and admire the changing colors as the sun goes down.

Delicious pepper ice cream cone

Try Some Pepper Ice Cream

This next one is all about pepper. Kampot is known for it, and there are plenty of pepper plantations in the area. If you have a longer stay here you should definitely take a tour at one of them. However if your stay is short like ours, you could try some pepper ice cream and buy some souvenirs to bring home. Tip: Not all of the pepper being sold around the markets is actually from Kampot, ask a local or your guesthouse for recommendations.

Inside the Phsar Leur Market in downtown Kampot

Phsar Leur Market

Phsar Leur Market is Kampot’s central market located downtown. It’s filled with so much to see, and eat. There were a lot of food options once inside that looked like very authentic cuisine. We saw a lot of clothing, jewelry, household items, and market foods to buy here. Mr. Leng brought us to buy some authentic pepper as well. Deep inside the market were fermented shrimp and seafood which made for a very pungent smell, so be prepared.

View from the road on Fish Island

Rent a Motorbike and Go for a Ride

There’s plenty to see outside of Kampot, so rent a motorbike and explore. You’ll come across some amazing scenery and cute villages. It will also allow you to see what true local life is like here. You may find yourself to be the only ones on the road for some stretches. And the breeze from the wind will feel refreshing.

The Sunflower boat restaurant along the river

Eat and Hang at a Boat Restaurant

Next up is another thing to do along the river. You will notice many floating boat restaurants and bars as you walk and explore by the water. Some of these are boat tours, but others stay docked. We walked by The Sunflower and it looked intriguing, however since we already ate we didn’t go. It seemed like a fun and quirky spot with lovely greenery around. These are some great places to sit and have a drink while enjoying the nighttime water views.

The stunning views of the Kampot salt fields

Visit the Salt Fields

We never knew that salt fields even existed in Kampot until Mr. Leng told us about them. They were conveniently located about a 10 minute tuk tuk ride from our bungalow, so he took us on a trip there in the early morning. Unfortunately they had already collected the salt the day before, so we only got views of the empty fields. But the reflections were so beautiful and we loved learning more about how the salt is made. The best time for photos is of course sunrise or sunset.

The ornate and beautiful Wat Traeuy Kaoh on Fish Island

Wat Traeuy Kaoh

Lastly is a hidden gem called Wat Traeuy Kaoh about a 5 minute walk from Fish Island Bungalows. In the distance you can see the beautiful roof standing out from amongst the island. We spent a brief time here exploring a bit before leaving Kampot. The ornate details and color were just incredible. It was fairly quiet when we arrived, so we had it mostly to ourselves. Nearby is a school where you can get a glimpse of local life. You may even get lucky and spot a monk here too. Around the temple are beautiful views of the mountains with a sitting area by the water. It’s definitely worth a quick stop while visiting the island.

Other Things to Do

Although we didn’t have enough time, there is still so much more to do here. You can take a day trip to Kep and visit the crab market or Rabbit Island. There’s also a lot of beauty to see on Bokor Mountain and in Bokor National Park with several historic monuments and temples to see. Kampot also has a lot of outdoor water activities to do on the river. After a day exploring, you can check out the night markets within the main part of town. Visiting a pepper plantation such as La Plantation is another must-see while here.

View of the outside of Simple Things restaurant

Where to Eat in Kampot

Because we were only here for 24 hours, we didn’t have much chance to sample a lot of food. But we did check out Simple Things, a healthy vegetarian restaurant that also serves as a yoga studio. One of the rules here was to leave your shoes at the door. Inside it felt very calm and we noticed a lot of expats hanging out here. The restaurant itself is owned by expats from Russia, and the food here is so fresh. We tried several small dishes and all tasted very clean and healthy. We also loved the smoothies here too! It reminded us of the ones we make back at home.

Some other high rated restaurants in the area are Khmer Roots Cafe with local vegetarian and vegan cuisine, GreenHouse Restaurant with French/Asian fusion and beautiful riverside views. Also worth checking out are Ecran Noodle and Dumplings with Chinese and Asian cuisine, and finally Rikitikitavi, with a combo of various cuisines. If you’re really feeling adventurous, you can sample food from some of the markets.

The gorgeous sunset from our room at Fish Island Bungalows

Why We Loved Kampot, Cambodia

Kampot, Cambodia is an amazing and peaceful place to visit. We loved the charm, the cozy atmosphere, and the laid-back vibes. It’s a place we’d absolutely love to come back to for a longer stay. This city left us feeling revived after spending so much time traveling around the country. It’s not overly touristy yet and that’s also what makes it so great. We really enjoyed the views, and the authentic feel of local life. One of my favorite memories was waking up at sunrise and watching the local village nearby starting their day. The smells of the food in the air mixed with the river water was distinct and wonderful. Definitely consider adding this to your Cambodia itinerary.

Have you ever been to Kampot? If so, we’d love to hear more!

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One visit to Taiwan was all we needed to fall in love. It’s such an underrated country that not many think of to go, but there’s so much beauty to see. It’s rich with beautiful temples, delicious cuisine, night markets, and gorgeous scenery. While we only stayed here a week, we explored areas in the south beyond Taipei, including Tainan and Kaohsiung. These areas are filled with hidden gems and give a more authentic taste of the country.

Here’s an inspiring list of 9 places in Taiwan to discover that are less known and more local, in addition to some of the more popular spots as well. This 3-day tour of Southern Taiwan covers a lot of the places listed here, and also helps to save the time spent on DIY planning.

A Unique Guide on Things to Do in Taiwan

The courtyard at Koxinga Shrine

Koxinga Shrine

Koxinga Shrine is located in the West Central district of Tainan. Dating all the way back to 1163, it has a lot of significance for Taiwanese history. It was built in memory of Cheng Cheng Kung, an important figure in history for the country. The shrine is a Northern Chinese style architecture with remnants of Japanese influence mixed in. I was in awe over the beautiful ornamental details and colors throughout, and it’s a wonder to walk through and explore.

A shop along Anping Old Street

Anping Old Street

Located near the fort in the Anping district of Tainan is Anping Old Street. The street is filled with amazing food to try and a variety of shops to see. I’m a sucker for those narrow, windy and charming streets and this one didn’t disappoint. We tried a plethora of unique food here, including oyster omelets, shrimp chips, pudding, and peanut desserts. If you’re into having a more local experience, this is a must see in the area.

The walkway at Anping Tree House

Anping Tree House

Another idea for places in Tainan to explore is the Anping Treehouse, which is a former warehouse that has been overtaken by banyan roots and branches. It’s located near the fort in the Anping district. You’ll love the mix of nature and man-made, similar to Ta Prohm, the famous temple in Cambodia. We walked within, above and all around the warehouse to get various viewpoints. It’s truly a unique experience and you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a treehouse. Nearby there’s also the Tait and Co Museum, an interesting insight into culture and history. Admission is 50NT.

The front of Renshow Temple

RenShow Temple

Within the rural parts of Tainan in the Gueiren District is RenShow Temple. I don’t know too much about it’s history, however the temple is 300 years old and inside is a stone tablet with inscriptions from 1888. I noticed beautiful carvings throughout, and the entire structure is stunning. We stumbled upon it at random, but it’s definitely worth checking out if you’re into architecture and less known places.

Seafood vendor on Cijin Island

Cijin Island

Next up is Cijin Island, a small island next to Kaohsiung harbor and just a 15 minute ferry ride away. It’s a wonderful day trip while in the area, and is loaded with things to do and see. You should definitely try plenty of fresh seafood while here. We also tried BBQ squid on a stick, which was delicious. In addition, you can bike around the island and admire the beautiful scenery all around. During our time here we also checked out a local temple, which we will feature next.

The front entrance of Tianhou Temple lit up at night by lanterns

Tianhou Temple

While visiting Cijin Island, you must check out Tianhou Temple. It was built for Matsu, goddess of the sea, and dates all the way back to 1673. Similar to other temples in Taiwan, it’s a Chinese style architecture, specifically from the southern areas. I loved looking at the intricate dragon carvings and colors, while admiring the beauty inside. Also, at night you’ll be rewarded with a magical view of lanterns lit up all around it.

The harbor in Kaohsiung Taiwan

Kaohsiung

Another underrated gem in Taiwan is Kaohsiung, a beautiful coastal city in southern Taiwan. We visited here for only a day and truly enjoyed it. Some must sees here are the night markets, Lotus Lake, the Love River, and a plethora of temples. You can also see stunning cityscape views from the top of the 85 Sky Tower. It’s a wonderful mix of nature, vibrant city life, amazing food, and rich cultural history. There’s also numerous day trips from here like Kenting Island, or Cijin Island. It’s worth exploring beyond Taipei and coming south. You could also do a private tour with a local like this one and discover all the hidden gems and great food spots.

A food vendor at Tainan Flower Night Market

Night Markets

Taiwan is home to some of the best night markets in the world. You can find them in every major city here. Some of the famous ones in Taipei include Shilin Night Market, Huaxi Night Market, and Linjiang Street Night Market. We also explored some in southern Taiwan, including Hua Yuan Night Market (aka the Tainan Flower Night Market), Dadong Night Market, and Guanghua Night Market. I love the sensory experiences at these markets, with all the smells, the sights, and the sounds. You’ll also have some of the best food and enjoy all the shopping, with incredible photography opportunities as a bonus.

View from the 89th floor of the Taipei 101

Taipei 101

Although touristy, the Taipei 101 is a must see while in the city. We went to the 89th floor to admire the amazing views of the city, and an outdoor observation deck on the 91st floor. There’s also special exhibits to discover and loads of shopping in the lower floors of the building. It’s so tall that you can see it from most parts of the city, and is cool to see from afar.

Inspiring Your Travel to Taiwan

We hope this list of things to do in Taiwan inspires some ideas for your next visit there. It’s truly a beautiful country with a lot of places to discover. Since we were only in Taipei for a day, we only scratched the surface. We’d still love to see Elephant Mountain, Jiufen Village, Mount Keelung, and explore more of Taipei city.

Day Trip from Taipei
If you’re spending some extra time in Taipei, this is the perfect day tour to Jiufen, Yehliu & Pingxi. These are some of the most beautiful and charming places to see in Taiwan!

Have you been to Taiwan? If so, we’d love to hear about it!

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I had heard great things about Copenhagen, but it was not on our immediate radar of places to visit. We had just returned from our trip to Morocco, and had a bit of withdrawal, so I kept thinking about where we could go next. Since we didn’t have many vacation days left, we had to focus on one main city instead of an entire country. Ironically not long after, a kids fly free deal for Scandinavian Airlines caught my attention. With Copenhagen being one of the options of places to go, we thought why not? We chose to go over Thanksgiving holiday to gain a few extra days. I’m now delighted to have made such a spur of the moment decision.

We had 5 full days in Copenhagen, not counting travel time. Our style is to pack it all in, so I had high hopes to see everything. It didn’t go fully as planned so I’m going to share our actual itinerary of what we realistically were able to do given energy level and travel with a toddler.

Our short time here also included a brief escape to Bornholm, a little island that is geographically closer to Sweden, but still a part of Denmark. You can choose to either include this or not, and we will also give suggestions on alternate options instead. It truly was a highlight and something we’d like to explore deeper on a return trip.

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What to Do in Copenhagen: 5 Day Itinerary

In This Article
When to Go to Copenhagen
Is the Copenhagen Card Worth It?
Christiansborg Palace, Walking Tour, and Christmas Markets
Bornholm Island
Tivoli Gardens
Frederiksborg Castle
Walking Tour and Danish Christmas Lunch
Head Back Home

When to Go to Copenhagen

Deciding when to go to Copenhagen depends on the type of experience you want to have. If you’re into doing more outdoors, visiting Legoland and having a full range of activities then visiting during Spring or Summer is best. Definitely go during Fall or Winter if you prefer less crowds. If you want the full festive holiday experience, visiting during November or December is ideal.

We happened to be there towards end of November and absolutely loved being able to see all the Christmas markets and experience the cozy hygge feeling everywhere. It was also magical being able to see Christmas at Tivoli, an experience everyone should have at least once. Overall, anytime is great to visit Copenhagen, or better yet go back during a different season and have a completely different trip.

Exploring the streets in the central part of the city

Is the Copenhagen Card Worth It?

I had heard of the Copenhagen Card for tourists, but wasn’t sure if it was worth buying. After calculating the actual sites we had planned to see with our time, we decided not to get one. Unless you plan to pack in a lot of sites, it may be cheaper not to buy one. Since most of our days were spent walking and exploring, it wasn’t cost-efficient for us. They have a handy calculator on their site, however I did the math on my own based on looking up all the individual costs.

The card is only worth it if you plan to pack in a lot of places per day. However, there are things that can go wrong or happen during the trip. Alternatively, you may want to purchase a 24 hour all zone ticket or Citypass, which you can find more info about here.

An archway on the way to Christiansborg Palace

Day 1: Christiansborg Palace, Walking Tour, and Christmas Markets

This itinerary works well for those who arrive in Copenhagen in the early morning. Getting through immigration was very quick. It was pretty easy to figure out the train into the city. We had a full day ahead to explore, however we were exhausted from travel and running on very little sleep, so our energy was limited. Our hotel check-in was not until 3pm, but we headed there first to place our luggage in the lockers available there.

I had kept the day pretty open, but listed areas of interest to see. You can choose to follow this, or alter to your liking. Instead of strictly following the list, we decided to just start walking and see where it would take us.

Local Tour
Exploring with a local is the best way to experience a new place. This Copenhagen Welcome Tour is the perfect introduction to the city so you can explore with confidence on your own.

The outside of Next Door Cafe

Breakfast/Brunch

I searched on Yelp for some nearby cafes since we were pretty hungry and found one called Next Door Cafe, located in the Indre By neighborhood. It got great reviews, so we decided to give it a try.

The cozy ambiance of Next Door Cafe

The cafe looked so cute from the outside, and the owners were so friendly and welcoming. We also loved how casual it was. You’ll feel so comfortable in the dimly lit interior. We ordered an omelet and pancakes and both were so delicious. It was quite small and cozy and never got too crowded while we were there, perhaps because it was a weekday. Definitely a nice introduction to Denmark, we highly recommend it as a breakfast/brunch option while here.

Inside one of the reception rooms at Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg Palace

After eating we decided to head to Christiansborg Palace. With a 10am opening time, it was perfect timing to explore for a few hours then move onto other sites. We opted to see the Royal Reception rooms to keep more of the day open for other things. Our total time here was around 1-2 hours, so allow at least that to explore.

Terra with foot coverings at the top of the stairs

Royal Reception Rooms

Before starting your tour, you’ll have to put on foot coverings to keep the floors clean. The entire palace on the inside is beautiful, and there were special Christmas tables on display since it was the holiday season. I absolutely love palaces and castles, so it was quite a delight seeing the exquisite and ornate interiors. The decor was so rich and elegant, with incredible detail!

The Queen’s Library at Christiansborg Palace

One of my favorite rooms was the Queen’s Library, which contains a private collection of books. It was so gold and luxurious, with beautiful blue furniture accents. Terra especially loved the Throne Room and kept asking where can she find the queen! The Dining Hall was also quite interesting, I can’t imagine how cool it would be to be part of such a grand dinner!

Upon exiting you’ll remove the foot coverings. There’s also a souvenir shop if you’re interested in grabbing some things. It’s definitely worth the visit and so lovely seeing a part of Danish history!

The entrance to the Christmas Market at Højbro Plads

Walking Tour: Kongens Nytorv, Amagertorv, Strøget, Indre By

Højbro Plads

Once we finished touring the castle, we walked over the Højbro Plads which was literally right across the street. You can easily spot it by the large Absalon equestrian statue displayed right in the entrance. We stumbled upon the holiday market here, which was such a nice surprise! There were a lot of cute shops, with wonderful smells of food and sweets in the air. We stopped to try a sausage and it was so delicious! It was one of our must-try foods here and a perfect opportunity to grab a snack!

See a full list: Copenhagen Christmas Market Guide.

The heart of Strøget welcomed by the Stork Fountain

Amagertorv

Next to Højbro Plads is Amagertorv also known as Amalger Square. At the entrance is the famous Stork Fountain, a lovely photo opportunity. This is the heart of Strøget, the famous shopping street and one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. We walked and explored a great deal of it, and noticed a mixture of both budget and luxury shops. Due to limited time here we decided not to shop much, but there was a lot to see. We definitely made sure to stop at Flying Tiger Copenhagen, since we fell in love with the store in NYC.

Walking along Strøget street

Strøget

During our stroll along Strøget, we also stopped at Lagkagehuset for a kanelsnegle, the Danish version of a cinnamon roll. Such buttery and cinnamon goodness! Here’s a list of more great bakeries to check out while in Copenhagen.

We walked until we finally reached City Hall, and stopped by the Dragon Fountain for some photos. While exploring we also walked past Tivoli and it was nice to see the holiday decor during the day. Since we had plans to spend the day here later in our trip, it was nice to get a view of it during daytime hours.

Torvehallerne Food Hall

What to Eat: Lunch

Torvehallerne is a treasure trove of great eats in Copenhagen. There’s so much to choose from and you can even grab some edible souvenirs to bring back home. It consists of two separate halls and in the center is an outdoor market with fresh produce and other items.

Hallernes Smørrebrød in Torvehallerne Food Hall

With a plethora of options, it was tough deciding what to eat. In the end we chose Hallernes Smørrebrød and grabbed a few options of smørrebrød to share. We wanted to at least try it once, so this was our chance. Another place worth trying here is Grød, for some delicious Danish porridge. We also noticed a smoothie place with healthy options.

Check in area at Steelhouse

Hotel Check-In: Steelhouse Copenhagen

Let’s be honest, hotel accommodation in Copenhagen isn’t cheap, so we chose a hostel option. But after our stay at Steelhouse Copenhagen, I must say, the hostels here are a great choice, and have everything you need. They had lockers for storage, laundry facilities, a kitchen, several lounge areas and just an overall community vibe. There were snacks and drinks available for purchase, which was very convenient as we headed out for a fully packed day.

Our small but functional room at Steelhouse

We booked the twin room for 4 people. It was still quite small, but perfect for what we needed. The beds were surprisingly very comfortable and cozy, and the shower was always hot and functional with plenty of towels provided. We truly enjoyed our stay here and you’ll find it to be a great economical choice during your visit.

Once we checked in, we decided to take a moment to rest. We probably could have squeezed in another neighborhood to check out, but with sunset starting before 4pm, we didn’t have much daylight left. Taking a moment to recharge is just what you need sometimes!

See more: Hotels in Copenhagen

The Christmas market at Nyhavn

Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv Christmas Markets

It was our top priority to see all the Christmas markets during our visit, especially since they are seasonal. Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv are two of the bigger markets located conveniently next to each other. We hadn’t actually seen Nyhavn yet, so we decided to head there first. It was quite easy to get to, just a few stops from our hostel and a 5 minute walk from the station.

Beautiful holiday decor along Nyhavn canal

Nyhavn Christmas Market

The market at Nyhavn was absolutely beautiful. You’ll be in awe from all of the lights, adorable festive shops, and smells of spices in the air. The restaurants along the canal were all adorned with holiday decor. The hygge feeling was definitely alive here! There were blankets, table lamps and fires going in the outdoor seating areas of the eateries. We tried gløgg for the first time, which is a mulled red wine served with spices, raisins, and sliced almonds. All the goodies at the bottom soaked up all the flavors and it was such a treat! Seeing all the holiday lights reflected on the water was a heartwarming sight.

The entrance to Kongens Nytorv Christmas market

Delicious mini dutch pancakes

Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market

Kongens Nytorv also called the King’s Square, is one of the main areas in the city. The stunning D’Angleterre Hotel and the equestrian statue of Christian V are situated here. There’s also a plentitude of shops and street foods to try. We decided to have dinner here and munched on some Pork Goulash and pommes frites, along with mini pancakes topped with nutella for dessert. It was all warm and hearty, perfect for a cold winter night.

The village of Allinge in Bornholm Island

Day 2: Bornholm Island

Where to Stay

I wanted to see an area beyond Copenhagen even though we had such little time in Denmark. Some possible options were Aarhus, Odense, Aero Island or Bornholm. I instinctively went with Bornholm and wow what a discovery. I had never heard of this island before, but found it through travel research. Since it was off season there weren’t many hotels open, so we opted for Airbnb called Svaneke Guesthaus.

The backyard area of Svaneke Guesthouse

The guesthouse was such a delight and the owners treated us like family. We had a private room within the top floor of the house with access to a common guest area. Since nobody else was there we had this all to ourselves.

How to Get to Bornholm

Getting here was fairly easy, but took a bit of work and research. The ferry is located in Ystad, Sweden. You can either rent a car and drive, take the train, or do a bus/ferry combo which we found to be the easiest option. I booked the tickets in advance through Bornholmerbussen. The site is in Danish, so you may need to use a translator. The bus leaves from directly in front of Copenhagen Hotel Plaza. To maximize time go with the 6:45am departure, with arrival to the island around 9:30am.

Getting Around

In order to get around the island you’ll need a car. There are buses, but they don’t come often and it will limit your schedule. We had a great experience with Europcar, located right by the ferry port in Rønne. There are only manual cars available though, so if you need automatic you’ll have to rent elsewhere.

Things to Do

The island is quite small and you can drive the perimeter in about 3-4 hours. Dubbed the “Sunny Island” it’s typically very sunny, however we experienced overcast skies during our stay. Since we only had a day here, we chose just a few select sites and saved the rest for another trip.

Hammershus Castle Ruins in Bornholm

There are villages on the water around the perimeter of the island, with some sites in the middle. For this trip we focused on the northern part of the island, since the south is more known for its beaches. During our short stay, we stopped at Allinge, Gudhjem, Hammershus Castle Ruins, Osterlars Round Church and Svaneke. In order to enjoy the island in its entirety you need at least 3-4 nights here. We plan to go back during summer for a longer trip.

The salad bar at Svaneke Bryghus

Dinner

Since it was off-season there weren’t many restaurants open. Our guesthouse hosts kindly offered to book us a table at Svaneke Bryghus, conveniently located near our airbnb. It was a nice stroll through the village to get there and allowed us to see the main square. They had a great selection of food to choose from and every entree included the salad bar, with fresh and healthy options. With it being a microbrewery, there was a fantastic array of craft beers available. The food was pricey, but delicious. It’s definitely a solid option in this area.

Explore more: Getaway Guide to Bornholm Island

Alternate Option
If you choose not to visit Bornholm, you can spend another day touring Copenhagen. You can explore Norrebro and check out Assistens Cemetary, Superkilen Park and admire the beautiful facades. For other day trip options, you can explore Roskilde, Odense, Egeskov Castle, Møns Klint, or a guided tour of Lund and Malmo, Sweden. See more: Things to do in Copenhagen

Strolling around the village of Svaneke

Osterlars Round Church in Bornholm

Day 3: Travel Back to Copenhagen + Tivoli Gardens

Before taking the ferry we had time explore Svaneke and take some photos. We also stopped at Osterlars Round Church since it was on the drive back to Rønne. We then took the same ferry and bus back to Copenhagen. They run only every four hours, so with plans for Tivoli later in the day the 10:30am ferry is the best option. This will get you back to Copenhagen around 1:30pm with time for lunch and relaxation. For more photos and info on our Bornholm getaway, check out our mini guide to Bornholm Island.

Hotel Check-In: Urban House Copenhagen

I typically like to book at least a few different places to stay during our trips. For the remainder of our trip I chose Urban House Copenhagen, another hip hostel with an excellent location. It was about a 3 minute walk to Copenhagen Central Station, a hub that allowed us ease of travel in the city and beyond.

It was a lot more lively and busy here. They had lockers for storage and a digital check-in process. We also spotted a bar here with a few food options for both breakfast and dinner along with some snacks and drinks for purchase.

Our spacious room at Urban House Copenhagen

The room was quite large, and we had 4 bunk beds along with a double bed. It was nice to spread out and have some extra space with a longer stay. We noticed plenty of towels available and everything was very clean.

The outside of Mother restaurant

Lunch

After a brief search for food near the hostel I found Mother, about a 10 minute walk away. When we arrived it was slightly crowded, but not too bad. There was a lunch buffet happening with an hour left to go, so we got there just in time.

A plateful of delicious food at Mother

If you love Italian food like me, then you’ll be in heaven here. There was pizza and several other Italian dishes and salads, as well as cheese with various bread and baked goods. We tried a little bit of everything and we loved the salads the most. Being used to amazing pizza in NYC, we weren’t too impressed with it. It was definitely pricey for what we got, so if you’re in the area it’s worth a try, but don’t make a special trip for it.

The beautiful holiday vibes at Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens

A trip to Copenhagen isn’t complete without visiting Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It’s also inspiration for Walt Disney World, another classic theme park for people of all ages. We were lucky to experience Christmas at Tivoli, a magical and incredible experience you must have at least once in your lifetime.

If you have a Tivoli card, the entrance fee is free, however you’ll still have to pay for rides. If you’re going to ride more than 3-4 rides then definitely go with the Unlimited Ride Pass. They also have a Companion pass for those who are just riding with younger children not able to ride on their own.

The charming carousel at Tivoli

The lines into the park were not too long, in fact it took no more than 10 minutes to get in. Once inside it was pretty crowded, but we were still able to move around comfortably. Certain rides had a longer wait time than others, specifically the Balloon ride and the Carousel.

Dragon boats surrounded by magical holiday decor

Holiday Vibes All Around

The decor was absolutely stunning and it felt like a winter wonderland. We loved browsing the Christmas markets, and there was plenty of glogg, hot cocoa, and food available for purchase. The Christmas tree was stunning and we even saw a train moving around it. Terra was in awe with all the lights and festive feel in the air.

Explore more: Christmas at Tivoli Gardens.

The merry atmosphere inside Groften

Dinner

In order to have a break from the cold I booked a table at Grøften well in advance. I was excited to try the traditional Danish fare served here. The entrance was quite lovely and adorned with holiday decor. We were welcomed with a warm greeting and seated in a more quiet area of the Mellemhaven section, which I had chosen while booking.

Christmas Rice pudding dessert topped with cherries

I absolutely loved the vibe inside, there were Christmas balloons hanging from the ceiling filled with little animals. The area was lit mostly by candles and holiday lights. We definitely felt the hygge with sounds of laughter, joy and chatter. Service was fantastic and the food was quite delicious. We noticed a traditional Christmas menu available, but since we had one booked for the following day we chose other options. Definitely make sure to try the traditional Danish dessert, rice pudding with cherries (so delicious!) Our time here was truly warm and enjoyable and we highly recommend it while you’re at Tivoli.

The grand entrance to Frederiksborg Castle

Day 4: Frederiksborg Castle

We decided to sleep in and recharge for a busy day ahead. This meant that we only had time to see Frederiksborg Castle, located in the charming town of Hillerød. We grabbed some breakfast at the 7-11 in the station before boarding the train. They are quite different in Denmark compared to America. Who know 7-11 could have such healthy and delicious options? We practically lived on the yogurts and bread for breakfast everyday.

The quaint stroll through Hillerød on the way to the castle

Getting to Frederiksborg

We purchased an All Day Zone pass from the red billeter machine in Copenhagen Central Station. It’s under the Tourist option on the screen. You then take the S-Train to Hillerød, which runs every 10 minutes or so. The train ride there is about 45 minutes with a 20 minute walk to the castle. You should definitely take time to walk through the village as it’s quite beautiful, and allows you to see another part of Denmark.

Optional Add-On
If you decide to leave earlier in the morning you can also go to Louisiana Museum, a gorgeous modern art museum located on the coast. Or you could choose to do a Copenhagen Day Tour which includes Roskilde, Frederiksborg and Kronborg Castle.

The cute Christmas market in Hillerød

Hillerød

During our stroll through Hillerød we stumbled upon a small Christmas market. The gorgeous castle was a lovely backdrop behind the picturesque stalls. The buildings were all so cute and quaint. It was definitely a nice quiet break from the city. In the same square was an adorable windmill, with various shops and restaurants surrounding. We perused the market for a bit before heading on our way.

The Castle

Frederiksborg Castle was built by King Christian IV in the 17th century. It has since been restored after suffering from a fire in 1859. The Renaissance charm definitely shined through here.

The beautiful walk along the lake

We walked along a serene lake filled with ducks as we approached the castle. It was seriously straight out of a fairytale! The path was lined with willow trees and the castle occasionally peeked through as you got closer. When we finally reached the entrance we were in awe! It was truly magnificent and quite a sight to see.

Because we woke up late we didn’t have much time to ohh and ahh at everything. The entrance was quite grand and in the front was a large fountain. We didn’t spent too much time outside since we were dying to take a tour of the inside, but there’s much to explore here.

The stunning and intricate chapel inside the castle

Museum of Natural History

The Museum tour depicts 500 years of Danish history through furniture, art, portraits and paintings. We were enamored with how elaborate and detailed each room was. It truly showed the ever-changing styles throughout the years and made us feel as if we we in that era. You’ll love seeing how royalty lived throughout history.

One of my favorite rooms was Chapel, overflowing with gold details and natural light. We must have spent at least 20 minutes in this room exploring and gawking at all its glory. I especially loved seeing the organ and piano up close, both located on each end. You’ll fall in love with every inch of this space.

The ornate Audience Chamber inside the castle tour

Audience Chamber

The Audience Chamber was another highlight. We walked through a beautiful hallway to get there. I was in awe over the gorgeous stucco ceiling covered with paintings, and the grand chandelier. Even the furniture complemented nicely in the space, every detail was considered during restoration.

You should definitely take an inside tour of the castle and get a feel for Danish history. It was fascinating to get a glimpse of how life was during these years, and what it must have been like to live there.

Stunning view of the castle at sunset taken from the gardens

Castle Gardens

We toured the gardens surrounding the castle last, since the inside was only open until 3pm. It was perfect timing because sunset was starting and it meant for magical fairytale views of the castle. What better than to see a glorious castle at sunset? I took this pretty seriously and spent quite a bit of time getting some shots of this prime moment.

Terra posing in the gardens behind the castle

Since it was winter we didn’t see the garden in full bloom, but it was still very beautiful. You should at least take a brief tour here after seeing the inside. You can also exit here to head back to the train station.

See more: Magical Castles in Denmark

Dinner

We had grand plans for dinner, but they never actually happened. You see I wanted to check out Reffen Street Food, but I guess I should have researched more deeply on their opening hours.

The deserted entrance to Reffen Street Food

Reffen Street Food

We actually travelled all the way there and knew something was up when the area was rather deserted. I was slightly creeped out walking through darkness and industrial warehouses (something I would never attempt in NYC!) When we finally got there, we saw deserted food booths, holiday lights, picnic tables, and a huge sign that said Reffen. It looked extremely cool and we were bummed to have missed it. Definitely check it out and pay attention to their hours! I later learned that they close at 6pm on Sunday, and we got there around 7pm, oops!

We noticed something at the bus stop that made us smile through all the disappointment. There was a box with a sign that said “Leftover bread, take some home!” It showed just how truly kind and trusting the Danish are. I definitely wouldn’t touch that bread if I saw that locally.

After our planned dinner fail, I must admit when we got back to Urban House, laziness set in. So we decided to eat right at our hostel. Ironic considering I was hesitant to even go out for dinner, ha!

The view from the top of the Round Tower

Day 5: Walking Tour and Danish Christmas Lunch

Being the last day in Copenhagen I wanted to maximize all that we could see. I knew we couldn’t fit everything on the list, but that just means we save more for another trip! We explored most of the main sites in the city center and they were all conveniently close to each other.

The long spiral walk up to the top of the Round Tower

Round Tower

The first stop on our tour was the Round Tower during the walking tour, also known as Rundetaarn. It’s one of the oldest functioning observatories in Europe and was built in the 17th century. We walked the long spiral path to the top, which made for some cool photos. When we finally reached the top, it made for an incredible 360 degree view of the city. It was nice to see the city waking up to the morning light.

The view of the outside of Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle

Once we finished at the Round Tower, we walked about ten minutes straight over to Rosenborg Castle. We couldn’t go inside since it’s closed on Monday. Exploring the Kings Garden and seeing it from the outside is still worth it. I imagine the gardens are not as lush as it is during spring and summer, but it was still a delight to see. The outside of the castle itself is a beauty!

The adorable windmill at Kastellet

Kastellet

After we finished exploring Rosenborg, we walked back to Nørreport station and took the train to Østerport station. Nearby is Kastellet located about 5 minutes from the station. We only had time to explore the parks around the windmill. It was a nice and peaceful stroll with beautiful views. If you have more time here you should definitely walk up to the windmill and explore the barracks.

The changing of the guards at Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace

It took ten minutes to get to Amalienborg Palace from Kastellet. We made it just in time for the changing of the guards, which typically occurs around 12pm. It was quite funny to see a crowd of people following the guards around in hopes to get a great shot. I hadn’t originally planned on seeing this event, but it was a happy accident. It makes for some lovely photo opportunities and a unique experience!

Classic view of Nyhavn canal

Nyhavn

On our first day in Copenhagen we had seen Nyhavn at night, but still had hopes to see it during the day. We decided to walk there from the palace. We spent around 30 minutes browsing and shopping for a few souvenirs, then took some photos of the classic view. As many photos I’ve seen of this place, it’s quite amazing to see in person. The colorful building facades reflected so beautifully on the water and we loved seeing all the ships docked here.

One last stop at the Kongens Nytorv holiday market

Lunch

By now we were pretty hungry, but wanted something quick and convenient. We walked over to Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market for some hotdogs and waffles. Coming back here allowed us to browse a bit more and grab some last minute souvenirs. It may have been our second visit here, but I never get tired of the Christmas markets!

The entrance gate to Freetown Christiania

Freetown Christiania

With the sun setting so early, we could only fit in one more area. We chose to see Freetown Christiania since it was vastly different from everything else we’ve seen so far. It took about 15 minutes to get to by bus from Kongens Nytorv area. From there we had to walk into the complex to explore by foot.

Colorful buildings inside the commune

Freetown Christiania is essentially a vibrant hippie community bursting with creativity. It contains unique houses filled with funky art, graffiti and self expression. We noticed a lot of cafes and galleries, and even a horse stable. I’m quite fascinated by the alternative culture of it and the concept of “free rule.” The 900 or so people who live here don’t have to pay taxes and are essentially self-sufficient. It’s a car-free zone, so bikes or walking is a must.

No Photos Allowed

“Pusher Street,” is a famous area within known for it’s sale of hash. We were told “no photos” at the entrance, so I have none to show from here. But it will definitely live on in my memory. We walked past the vendors selling various marijuana products with our toddler in tow. The street was also lined with bright red lanterns, flags, and surrounded by bright urban art.

Street art was everywhere within Christiania

We were amazed to take a brief tour of this place and witness a small community of people thriving on their own. We felt some creepy vibes at times with handwritten messages on wooden boards, decrepit structures, and rustic pathways. I appreciated all the art and creativity here, you can tell the residents have a certain pride here. I’m not sure I would explore it at night, but it seemed most lively in late afternoon.

The cozy holiday interior of Kronborg restaurant

Danish Christmas Lunch

Julefrokost also known as Danish Christmas Lunch is an elaborate party celebrated by either friends, colleagues or family. Although it’s called lunch, it’s technically more so a dinner. There is a lot of talking, laughing, eating and drinking like most parties. Sometimes it ends in dancing and games. I booked this experience at Restaurant Kronborg with the full menu and info here. It’s one of the highly rated restaurants for this event, so it doesn’t come cheap, but it’s an experience you’ll never forget!

One of the first dishes was herring served three different ways

Breads and Fish

We were truly looking forward to this holiday celebration. The affair consisted of many small plates of traditional Danish food. We first had bread with butter and duck lard. We were then served our first course of fish consisting of 3 different types of pickled herring, followed by fried fish, and smoked salmon with eggs. The flavors were magnificent and filled with mixtures of sweet, salty and sour.

Dish with duck and pork meats served with sides of pickles and beets

Meats

After the fish course we were served the meats. First there was duck, liver paté with bacon and mushrooms, and pan-fried pork. This was followed by pork roast and sausage with pickled cabbage and other side complements.

Cheese and Dessert

By now we were quite full, but still had a few courses left. We had various cheeses with fruits and crackers, ending with a rich dessert of rice pudding with almonds and cherry sauce. At the end of the meal the person who found the whole almond got a “prize.” It was such a joyful dining experience that lasted a few hours. Everything was delicious and I always looked forward to the next dish. If you’re in Copenhagen around the holidays, don’t miss out on this festive event.

The cheese plate served before dessert, by now we were so full!

With full and satisfied bellies, we headed back to the hostel for one final night of sleep here. The last night is always so bittersweet, reflecting on your memories there and also dreading the trip back home.

Day 6: Head Back Home

Since our flight was in the morning, we couldn’t fit in any more sites. We had an easy train ride to the airport and through immigration. There’s a lot of shops here for some last-minute souvenirs.

Posing in Magstræde street

We hope you enjoyed our 5 day guide on what to do in Copenhagen. It’s a lovely city to visit, even during the winter! The Christmas spirit is truly alive here during the holidays and made our visit so magical. We look forward to returning during summer season.

Have you ever been to Copenhagen? If so, what other things did you do?

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The post The Best 5 Day Guide on What to Do in Copenhagen appeared first on Our Travel Soup.

Morocco is a country filled with unforgotten sights, smells and sounds. It is one of those special places that has left a permanent mark on us. Our daughter still brings up the camels, the cats roaming the streets, the sand and the orange juice (it’s seriously the best!)

In this 10 day itinerary you’ll explore the best of Morocco including coastal cities of Casablanca and Essaouira, the ancient medina of Fes, the incredible colorful city of Chefchaouen, a 3-day desert tour with driving through the Middle and High Atlas Mountains, Todgha Gorge, Dades Valley, and ending in the magical city of Marrakech.

Note: We use affiliate links in this post. This helps us to continue providing great content. For more info you can read our full disclosure here.

10 Day Best of Morocco Itinerary Snapshot

In this Article:
Best Time to Travel to Morocco
What to Pack for Morocco
Is Morocco Kid Friendly?
Casablanca
Fes
Chefchaouen
Sahara Desert Tour
Essaouira/Marrakech
Marrakech
Marrakech/Casablanca
Head back home

When to Go to Morocco

The best time to travel to Morocco depends on what type of experience you want, but we find that Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) is most ideal. Our particular trip was end of March through early April and we found it to be much less crowded then. Weather was also perfect, never too hot or too cold which made walking around and our time in the desert tolerable.

For a rich and unique experience, going during Ramadan might interest you. This is typically during May and early June. According to locals, summer is quite hot and it’s hard to do much. So this means end of June through August isn’t the best time to go. If you do happen to go during this time consider visiting the coastal cities instead. Moroccans usually flock to these areas for relief from the heat.

What to Pack for Morocco

Backpacks

We like to travel as light as possible to avoid checking baggage, so we bought a backpack that is compact and can still fit a large amount of stuff. The Osprey Porter 30 is our go-to for traveling light, and this size is guaranteed to be accepted as a carry-on. It fit almost all of our clothes, aside from a few items. We love how it opens just like a suitcase, so there’s no inconvenience of trying to pry stuff from the bottom. There are also straps that snap around your waist for better support and it’s super comfortable to wear. I have back issues and still did ok with this. We used it along with our regular backpack for all three of us during this trip.

Sandals and Comfy Sneakers

I switched between these the entire trip. Sandals are highly recommended for the desert if you want to avoid getting sand stuck in your shoes. I made this mistake and still have bits of the Sahara in my sneakers. These Superga sneakers are so comfy and I walked for hours in them. For sandals I always love my Birkenstocks.

Clothing Layers

The weather in Morocco fluctuates from morning to night. Depending on when you’re there, during the day can be hot, and then at night fairly chilly. So I made sure to pack layers of clothes like t-shirts and cardigans, along with a light jacket.

Kimono and Scarf

As I woman I wanted to be respectful of the culture, so I packed a scarf and kimono to cover my shoulders. It went perfectly with my attire and also fit in well with the vibe.

Medicine

Meds are a must-have for those worst case scenarios. This includes Tylenol, cold medicine, cough drops and any stomach meds. I also pack activated charcoal in case of food sickness and electrolytes to help keep hydrated and healthy. As a fail-safe, I also bring a prescription of antibiotics just to have. If you’re traveling with kids, pack the same for them as well.

Sunblock/Sunglasses

The sun gets quite strong at times, so having both of these will help with that.

Snacks

During the desert tour you may be driving for long periods without stopping, so packing some snacks will help curb any hunger.

Pocket-Wifi

We didn’t find wifi to be available much in Morocco except for hotels and it was quite slow. We’re glad we rented a pocket wifi to help stay connected with our friends and family. We rented ours from Tep Wireless and had a great experience.

Is Morocco Kid-Friendly?

Is it safe to bring kids to Morocco? The answer is yes! We were pleasantly surprised by how kid-friendly Morocco is. There were always available food options anywhere we ate. The locals adored our daughter and she received gifts from some of the shop owners. We weren’t as pressured to buy stuff in the souks. She was showered with attention everywhere we went, I think she must have felt like a princess the whole time. Cats were everywhere roaming the streets, she was in heaven! And the best part is, these are memories she will never forget for years to come.

So if you’re wondering how to spend ten days in Morocco with kids, you’ve come to the right place! This itinerary was created DIY style to suit our taste and desire to see more of the country. There’s a mix of both economical and splurge options, however it can easily be altered to your budget and personal style as well.

Day 1: Casablanca

Our flight had us arriving in Casablanca in the evening. Instead of siteseeing, we opted for just dinner and early sleep to get a great start the next day. If you arrive in the morning we recommend to check out the Hassan II Mosque, we did not see it this trip, but it was highly recommended by locals.

Where to Stay

For lodging we kept it budget and simple since Casablanca was just a means to enter and exit Morocco. We stayed at Hotel Les Saisons. The room itself was very basic, but it provided what we needed for the night. The location was conveniently close to the Casa Port station which connects to Casa Voyageurs, the main hub to travel elsewhere in Morocco.

Dinner:

Nearby the hotel was Casa Jose, a lively and delicious option for dinner. We had the paella and a few tapas, all of which did not disappoint. Cost of dinner was around $50 for all 3 of us, including wine. There was music and a mix of locals and tourists, an overall nice and relaxing introduction to Morocco after a long flight.

The post See the Best of Morocco: 10 Day Family Trip appeared first on Our Travel Soup.