Lost for centuries and taken over by jungle, today the grandeur of Angkor Wat’s temples are ready to be explored once again. The city of Siem Reap is known as the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, which is for most people the main highlight of visiting this part of Cambodia. Even though Angkor Wat is the main showstopper of this 3-day itinerary to Siem Reap, the city itself has a lot of fun and interesting activities to offer. This 3-day Siem Reap itinerary is the perfect way to make the most of your visit, whether you’re a dedicated temple explorer or just looking to soak up everything Siem Reap has to offer beyond Angkor Wat.
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Cambodia Trip Planning Essentials
VISA
Cambodia requires a visa for citizens of certain countries. Make sure to check the visa requirements on ivisa.com for your nationality before you go.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
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FLIGHTS
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INTERNET
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ACCOMMODATION
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TRANSPORT
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ONLINE PRIVACY
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TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
How to get to Siem Reap, Cambodia
The Angkor Wat Archaeological Park is just a short 15-minute drive from the heart of Siem Reap. Conveniently, Siem Reap has its own international airport (REP), making it easy to reach from Phnom Penh and other major Southeast Asian cities. AirAsia is a popular choice thanks to its extensive routes and great prices. For finding the best flights, we highly recommend using Skyscanner – it’s an excellent tool for comparing fares and routes.
If you prefer traveling by bus, it’s a comfortable and cost-effective option. Giant Ibis is known for its reliability and reasonable prices, running several services a day from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. The trip usually takes about 6 hours, with planned stops for refreshments and bathroom breaks. For those traveling from Thailand, Giant Ibis also offers routes from Bangkok, with a travel time of around 7-8 hours. Booking your bus tickets is easy with online platforms like 12GO.Asia.
How many days should you spend in Siem Reap?
In our experience, trying to cram all the sights of the Angkor Complex into just one day isn’t practical or enjoyable. We recommend dedicating 3 full days to Siem Reap so you can explore Angkor Wat and its wonders at a relaxed pace. This way, you’ll have enough time to see the iconic temples, check out some lesser-known ones, visit a floating village on Tonle Sap, and still enjoy other activities in Siem Reap.
Practically speaking, the Cambodian heat can be quite intense. After visiting about five temples, fatigue and dehydration can really set in. So, it’s a good idea to spread out your temple visits over a few days and reserve some afternoons for chilling by the pool or exploring more of what Siem Reap has to offer. This 3-day Siem Reap itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your trip without burning out.
How to get around Siem Reap & Angkor Wat Complex
The inner city of Siem Reap is easy to explore on foot, and there are plenty of tuk-tuks available for longer trips. You can catch affordable tuk-tuk rides using Grab or Pass App. If you’re not joining a guided tour on your Siem Reap itinerary, there are several ways to get around the Angkor Wat temple complex: by bus, private car, bicycle, scooter, or tuk-tuk. We suggest hiring a tuk-tuk driver because the distances between temples are quite large and the heat can be intense. We found it really enjoyable to travel between spots in an open-air vehicle. You can easily arrange a tuk-tuk through your hotel. Prices can vary depending on the tour circuit and if you plan to catch the sunrise at Angkor Wat. Generally, you can expect to pay between $15-25 for the day.
Overview 3-Day Siem Reap Itinerary
The main highlight of your trip to Siem Reap will likely be exploring the legendary Angkor Wat archaeological park. Spread across vast grounds and its multitude of temples, it’s easy to lose yourself in its ancient wonders for days. However, Siem Reap offers much more beyond temples, including visits to floating villages on Tonle Sap, discovering waterfalls and nature parks, diving into Cambodia’s rich history, and indulging in delicious Khmer cuisine. Here’s a breakdown of our 3-day Siem Reap itinerary:
Day 1
Begin with a sunrise at Angkor Wat followed by exploring the Small Circuit, later in the afternoon after a delicious local lunch head out for some shopping at local markets, and end the day soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Pub Street.
Day 2
Embark on a Grand Circuit Tour of the Angkor Wat Complex. In the afternoon, dive into the secrets of Khmer cuisine, perhaps joining a street food tour or a cooking class for an authentic culinary experience.
Day 3
Start with visits to lesser-known temples in the morning, then venture to a floating village in the afternoon. Conclude your day with a mesmerizing Apsara Dance Performance, a cultural highlight of Cambodia.
Main Tips For Your Siem Reap Itinerary
- Purchase your Angkor Pass online in advance. This way, you can avoid wasting time in the morning while heading out for sunrise.
- Even if you plan to spend two days exploring Angkor Wat, opting for a 3-Day Pass is more economical than purchasing two separate 1-Day passes.
- Always carry your (online) ticket with you as there are frequent checkpoints throughout the area where tickets are checked.
- Respect local customs by dressing modestly: cover your chest, shoulders, and knees when visiting temples in Angkor Wat.
- US dollars are widely accepted in Cambodia, so be prepared to use them during your visit.
- Note that flying drones at the Angkor temple complex requires a permit, which can be challenging to obtain.
- Plan your visit ahead by deciding which temples or routes to explore and consider booking tours or guides in advance.
- Given the large distances between temples within the Angkor Wat Complex, consider hiring a tuk-tuk driver through your hotel for convenient exploration.
- Stay hydrated in the sweltering heat; carry plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from the sun’s intense rays.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for extensive walking during your temple visits.
- Pack snacks for your journey; many hotels offer breakfast boxes for those heading out early for the Angkor Wat sunrise tour.
- Arrive at the park early, preferably before sunrise, to avoid the heat and enjoy the temples in a quieter setting.
- Be prepared for crowds at sunrise; it’s a popular time to visit Angkor Wat, so expect to share the experience with other visitors.
Siem Reap Itinerary | DAY 1
Why save the best for last?
We overheard some travelers saying they wanted to leave the sunrise at Angkor Wat for their final day, saving the best for last. However, we suggest doing the opposite. Kicking off your 3-day Siem Reap itinerary with the magical sunrise at Angkor Wat is an unforgettable way to start! Plus, you’ll be fresh and ready for this early morning adventure, while by the third day, fatigue from the intense Cambodian sun might start to set in. Starting your first day at 5 am, you’ll be finished with temple hopping around noon. After enjoying a delicious lunch in the city, it’s time for some relaxation at the hotel pool or going for a massage. Later in the afternoon when you are fully rejuvenated hit the Old Town market for some souvenir shopping and end the day with a drink at the infamous Pub Street.
MORNING – The Small Circuit Tour of Angkor Wat
Don’t be misled by the name; the Small Circuit covers the central temples, which are close to each other, but each is massive and will take a full day to explore. This route takes you through the most iconic temples of Angkor. If you only have one day to explore the temples, this is the tour to take!
Practical Information:
- Price: $15 to $18 for a tuk-tuk driver for the day (no guide included), or around $70 for a private guided air-conditioned car.
- Departure time: 4:30 am
- Duration: About 7 hours, depending on how long you spend at each temple
- Hotels usually provide breakfast to go.
The Small Circuit Tour includes several key attractions:
- Angkor Wat: As the crown jewel, Angkor Wat offers a breathtaking view, especially from across the pond at the main entrance. This spot is perfect for sunrise photography, with the temple’s reflection in the calm water. Inside, you can explore the temple grounds and climb the steep stairs to the central complex.
- Bayon Temple: Famous for its 216 stone faces, Bayon Temple is the second most visited temple on this tour. It’s located at the center of the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom, which is worth stopping at its impressive gates. After Bayon, capture some photos at the 350-meter-long Terrace of Elephants.
- Ta Keo: This pyramid-style temple requires climbing steep stairs to reach the top, offering panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Ta Prohm: Known for its iconic image of trees growing out of temple ruins, Ta Prohm is famously featured in the movie “Tomb Raider.”
- Banteay Kdei: Translating to “a citadel of chambers,” this temple has plenty of crumbling hallways and chambers to explore.
- Srah Srang: A large man-made lake, perfect for relaxing after a day of temple exploration.
Interested in a guided tour?
The easiest way to explore the Angkor Wat Complex is by tuk-tuk or car due to the vast distances. Your accommodation can help you arrange a tuk-tuk driver for pure transport but don’t expect the driver to be a guide as they often don’t speak much English. If you’re interested in a guided tour with an English-speaking guide to learn about Cambodian culture, art, and history, check out the sunrise tour below. This highly-rated tour starts at €14.50 per person for a group sunrise tour. Alternatively, this tour costs around $70 for a private guided air-conditioned car.
AFTERNOON – Relaxing & Shopping
After completing the Small Circuit tour, head back to Siem Reap for a delicious Khmer lunch at Tevy’s Place. This standout favorite became a regular stop for us, as we visited this restaurant four times for its fantastic, reasonably priced food. The Beef lok lak, made with fresh produce and Kampot pepper, is a must-try. The ambiance and staff are wonderful, with an initiative to train and employ young girls from difficult backgrounds, adding a heartwarming touch to your meal.
Following lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by your pool—Khmer House Boutique is a great choice. Alternatively, you could treat yourself to a well-deserved foot massage to relieve your tired feet after a morning of exploring.
Towards sunset, venture out to explore the local markets for some souvenir shopping. We always make it a point to bring back souvenirs that capture the essence of our travels. In Cambodia, Kampot pepper, wooden carvings inspired by Bayon Temple faces, and brass jewelry made from bullet casings are unique finds.
One market worth visiting is the Old Market (Psar Chas) by the river, open from 8 am to 6 pm. Here, you’ll find a wide array of stalls selling everything from souvenirs to fresh produce. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate for the best deals.
For a more authentic experience, check out the Made In Cambodia Market, open from 12 pm to 8 pm. This market offers a curated selection of locally crafted souvenirs and clothing. While prices may be slightly higher, the quality and uniqueness make it worthwhile. Plus, you can enjoy live Khmer dance performances or acoustic music shows every Friday through Sunday at 6 pm, adding a cultural touch to your shopping experience.
EVENING – Dinner & Drinks
For dinner, Siem Reap offers a plethora of options, making it tough to choose just one! To help, we’ve picked three types of dining experiences based on your preference. If you’re in the mood for a nice sit-down meal with delicious Thai and Khmer cuisine, head over to Sambo Khmer & Thai Restaurant. It’s a popular spot, so be prepared for a bit of a wait for a table. For those craving street food, grab a seat at one of the stalls in front of the Riverside Night Market near the riverbanks. If you prefer a rooftop restaurant with an ambiance near Pub Street, check out The Christa Restaurant and Bar. This laid-back spot offers a wide range of Khmer and Western dishes at reasonable prices.
If you still have some energy left and don’t feel like calling it a day just yet, make your way to Pub Street. This is the go-to spot for nightlife and cheap drinks in Siem Reap. You’ll also find massage shops with fish tanks, colorful neon lights, street food stalls, and plenty of tourists soaking in the lively atmosphere. While Pub Street may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s worth taking a stroll through for some people-watching as you head back to your hotel.
Siem Reap Itinerary | DAY 2
Regardless of last night’s adventures, we recommend starting your second day bright and early. This not only helps you avoid bigger crowds and the intense midday heat but also allows you to enjoy the breathtaking morning light at the temples. Today, you’ll be tackling the Grand Circuit tour, another long day of exploration. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, or head over to The Little Red Fox Espresso, a fantastic spot for breakfast with creative coffee options, smoothie bowls, and delicious bagel sandwiches.
MORNING – The Grand Circuit
The Grand Circuit Tour typically costs around $18 to $20. This route takes you to the outer edges of the park, letting you explore some of our favorite temples like Ta Som and Preah Khan. Since these temples are further away, the slightly higher price covers the extra petrol for the tuk-tuk ride. The temples on this circuit are generally less crowded than those on the Small Circuit, and we often had some sites almost entirely to ourselves, adding to the enchantment of our experience.
Practical Information:
- Price: Around $18 for a tuk-tuk driver for the day (no guide included), or join a small guided group tour starting at $23 per person.
- Departure time: Arrange for pick-up between 7-8 am.
- Duration: About 5 hours, depending on how long you spend at each temple.
Highlights of the Grand Circuit Tour:
- Preah Khan: This standout temple impresses with statues lining the walkway leading to the temple. Inside, the central hallway seems to stretch endlessly, showcasing its grandeur.
- Neak Pean: Accessible via a long walkway over a swampy lake, Neak Pean is situated on an island surrounded by a large man-made body of water.
- Ta Som: Ta Som features stunning stonework with bright green and red accents contrasting against the grey stone structures. The temple’s impressive gates adorned with smiling face carvings and overgrown trees add to its charm.
- East Mebon: Offering a unique architectural experience, East Mebon is similar to Pre Rup but with fewer stairs and no panoramic view.
- Pre Rup: Climb the steep set of stairs akin to a ladder to reach the top of Pre Rup for panoramic views of the surrounding ruins.
AFTERNOON – Join a Khmer Cooking Class or Food Tour
After returning to the city from your Grand Circuit adventure, grab a light lunch at Brother Bong Cafe. This cozy spot offers a variety of dishes, from muesli bowls to traditional Khmer cuisine, with their fish amok being a standout. Besides fantastic coffee, the cafe boasts a lovely atmosphere and friendly staff. After lunch, take some time to relax by your hotel pool before heading out for an afternoon activity. Both options involve diving into the secrets of delicious Khmer food: either by joining a cooking class or a street food tour. Experiencing local cuisine is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture, and if you have the time and energy, you might even want to try both!
Join a Street Food Tour
Food tours are a wonderful way to explore the diverse flavors of Cambodian cuisine. Khmer cuisine, influenced by Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and French flavors, is a culinary treasure. While we typically avoid organized group tours, street food tours are an exception. These tours are usually small and intimate, allowing you to really connect with the local food scene. The guides know all the best spots and share fascinating insights about the dishes and their origins. Plus, they’ll encourage you to try foods you might never have considered before—like fried insects! To our surprise, crispy crickets paired with a cold beer were quite tasty. Street food tours can last from a couple of hours to half a day, making them suitable for families as well.
Learn the Secrets of Khmer Cuisine in a Cooking Class
Taking a cooking class is not only a fun activity but also a great way to bring a piece of your travels home. With this small group cooking class, you’ll experience authentic Khmer cuisine with a local host. The adventure begins with a tuk-tuk pickup and a visit to the local market to select fresh ingredients. Then, head to your host’s home for the cooking session. Learn valuable techniques and secrets of Cambodian cooking as you prepare four traditional dishes, including the flavorful Fish Amok and the famous Tom Yam soup. With class sizes limited to just six participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and plenty of hands-on experience. Choose from three different class times to fit your schedule.
Another popular option in the heart of Siem Reap is a cooking class with Paper Tiger, a well-established institution since 2001.
Siem Reap Itinerary | DAY 3
For the final day of your 3-day Siem Reap itinerary, we suggest exploring beyond the well-trodden paths of Angkor Wat. However, if you feel you’ve seen enough temples, you can spend more time in Siem Reap city and visit the Wat Museum in the morning. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to the floating villages of Tonle Sap, and cap off the day with an intimate dinner and an Apsara Dance Performance.
MORNING – Explore beyond Angkor Wat
Start your day with another tuk-tuk ride, departing around 8 am. Head north of the main temple complex to visit the stunning Banteay Srei. Over 1,050 years old, Banteay Srei features some of the best-preserved carvings and statues, all made from reddish-pink sandstone. The morning light enhances the rose hues, giving the temple an ethereal glow. Despite its smaller size, Banteay Srei is a masterpiece of Khmer art and architecture, with intricate carvings depicting stories from Hindu mythology, dedicated to the god Shiva.
On your way back to Siem Reap city, ask your driver to stop by Banteay Samre. This tranquil sanctuary is often overlooked, making it a peaceful spot to visit. When we explored it, we only saw one other couple, which added to the serene atmosphere. Banteay Samre’s design closely resembles Angkor Wat, with well-preserved carvings that depict both Hindu mythology and Buddha.
Alternative: Visit the Siem Reap War Museum
If you’d rather skip more temple visits, consider exploring the Siem Reap War Museum. Here, guides share personal stories from the Khmer Rouge regime, providing unique insights into this turbulent period of Cambodian history. Profits from the museum help detect and remove unexploded landmines in Cambodia and support survivors of landmine explosions.
AFTERNOON – Visit a floating village
For lunch, head to Footprint Cafes, known for its cozy ambiance and outstanding food and coffee. After refueling, take a trip to the floating village of Tonle Sap by boat. Just a 45-minute drive south of Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Cambodian life and is a popular day trip option. This lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO Nature Reserve since 1997, supports the livelihoods of over three million people who depend on its abundant fish supply.
The surrounding villages, with their houses built on stilts to accommodate fluctuating water levels, showcase the resilience of local communities. Besides observing the daily life of the villagers, you’ll have the chance to encounter diverse wildlife, including over 300 species of fish, along with snakes, crocodiles, tortoises, turtles, and otters.
Among these villages, Kampong Phluk is a standout destination. In the wet season, the houses appear to float on the water, while in the dry season, you can walk among the towering stilted structures—a truly unique experience and one of the highlights of Siem Reap, right up there with Angkor Wat.
EVENING – Enjoy a nice dinner & Performance
Back in town, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Urban Tree Hut. This restaurant, set in a peaceful garden oasis, offers gourmet meals at affordable prices, making it perfect for a romantic last dinner in Siem Reap. After your meal, take a stroll to the Apsara Theatre for a traditional Khmer dance performance.
The Apsara dance, an iconic part of Khmer culture, is the perfect way to conclude your Siem Reap itinerary. This traditional form of Cambodian artistry dates back to the 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II, who commissioned the construction of Angkor Wat. You can even find carvings depicting the Apsara dance at Angkor Wat itself.
One of the most distinguishing features of Apsara dance is the intricate hand gestures. There are more than 1500 gestures, each symbolizing different meanings, such as worshiping the spirits of nature through the representation of a flower.
Originally, the Apsara dance was performed exclusively for royalty by women believed to possess supernatural abilities. Today, this ancient dance is accessible to all, with performances held at various hotels and restaurants in Siem Reap. Some venues even offer a dinner and performance combination, allowing you to enjoy a meal while experiencing this enchanting aspect of Cambodian culture.
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Where to Stay during your Siem Reap Itinerary?
Siem Reap attracts travelers year-round, offering a diverse range of accommodations from hostels to luxurious hotels. It’s advisable to book ahead, especially during peak season from November to March. Staying downtown is convenient, placing you close to the river, main markets, and lively cafes. Here are our top picks for where to stay in the area.
RECOMMENDED HOTEL | Khmer House Boutique
During our recent Southeast Asia backpacking trip, Khmer House Boutique stood out as our favorite place to stay. We extended our stay to a week because we loved it so much! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making our experience even more enjoyable. Their a la carte breakfast was exceptional, offering a variety of delicious options. Rooms were spacious, clean, and comfortable, each featuring a private balcony. Ground floor rooms have direct pool access, which is perfect for relaxing after exploring Angkor Wat. The hotel’s location was also great, close to excellent dining options and the river.
LUXURY RETREAT | Angkor Village Hotel
Angkor Village Hotel impresses with its stunning Khmer architecture set in lush gardens. It features a refreshing swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. Rooms overlook a serene lotus pond and garden, each equipped with luxurious rain showers. Guests can indulge in poolside foot massages and easily arrange tours and rentals. Its central location provides easy access to city attractions.
RESORT | Eightfold Urban Resort
For a modern retreat away from the downtown bustle, Eightfold Urban Resort offers a serene atmosphere. It boasts an inviting outdoor swimming pool, a lush garden, and a cozy restaurant and bar. Some rooms offer scenic pool views, all equipped with balconies. The attentive staff and complimentary rides to the city center enhance the overall experience.
HIDDEN OASIS | The Nature
Discover The Nature, a peaceful retreat just outside the city center. Surrounded by greenery, this gem features a charming wooden interior and spacious, modern rooms. Guests can relax by the shaded pool or enjoy garden views from select units. The hospitable staff even offers complimentary evening tuk-tuk rides into town.
MID-RANGE | Golden Temple Retreat
Golden Temple Retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience within walking distance of Pub Street and Old Market. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with personal touches like fresh flowers and a serene ambiance. Opt for a ground-floor room with a private porch and direct pool access—ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The in-house restaurant serves delectable meals, complemented by a cozy bar.
BUDGET | Bokre Angkor Hostel
Budget travelers will appreciate Bokre Angkor Hostel’s exceptional value near the city center. It features comfortable beds and a welcoming common area with a pool and terrace. The facilities are well-maintained, including free drinking water on every floor. The friendly staff are always ready with helpful tips, and the on-site restaurant serves a variety of Khmer and Western dishes.
Practical Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | For hassle-free bus, minivan, and train bookings across Cambodia, we recommend using the user-friendly platform 12go.Asia. Skip the queues and reserve your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Cambodia is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Cambodia on Skyscanner. We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Asia, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Guarantee reliable internet access throughout your Cambodia trip by using Airalo. Install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey for convenient connectivity. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Or use the code AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Cambodia, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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