Siem Reap 10 days

The main gateway to Siem Reap and the Angkor region. It's a modern and efficient airport, offering a pleasant arrival experience.

• Arrange your airport transfer in advance for a smoother arrival.

A highly-rated mid-range hotel with a beautiful pool and excellent dining. They are known for their commitment to sustainability and community.

• Enjoy their complimentary afternoon tea if you are a guest.

The vibrant heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, lined with bars, restaurants, and market stalls. It's a lively spot for dinner and people-watching.

• Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
• Bargain respectfully at the market stalls.

The world's largest religious monument and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famous for its intricate bas-reliefs, towering spires, and breathtaking sunrise views.

• Purchase your Angkor Pass the day before to save time.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise for a good spot.
• Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.

The ancient capital city, featuring the iconic Bayon Temple with its enigmatic smiling faces. Explore the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.

• Take time to appreciate the detailed carvings on the walls.
• The smiling faces of Bayon are particularly photogenic in the morning light.

A quiet, atmospheric temple with a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences. Its less-restored state offers a sense of discovery.

Famous for the giant silk-wood trees whose roots embrace the temple ruins, creating a dramatic and photogenic scene. It was famously featured in the movie 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider'.

• Look for the iconic tree root formations.
• This temple can get crowded; consider visiting later in the afternoon.

Known as the 'Citadel of Women', this temple is renowned for its exquisite, deeply carved pink sandstone reliefs, considered some of the finest in Khmer art.

• The intricate carvings are best viewed in the soft light of morning or late afternoon.
• It's located further from Siem Reap, so allow ample travel time.

A poignant museum detailing the impact of landmines in Cambodia and the efforts to clear them. It provides crucial historical context.

• This museum is run by a local NGO, and your entry fee supports their work.

The 'River of a Thousand Lingas', featuring intricate carvings on the riverbed and a small waterfall. It involves a moderate hike through the jungle.

• Wear sturdy shoes for the hike.
• The carvings are best seen when the water level is low.

A popular farm-to-table restaurant that trains disadvantaged youth in culinary skills. Offers delicious Khmer and fusion dishes in a charming garden setting.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.

A social enterprise that revives traditional Khmer craftsmanship. You can observe artisans at work and purchase high-quality silk, stone carvings, and lacquerware.

• The workshops offer a fascinating insight into traditional techniques.
• Prices are fixed, reflecting fair wages for the artisans.

Learn about Khmer pottery traditions and even try your hand at making your own piece. They also have a gallery showcasing beautiful ceramic art.

• Book a pottery workshop in advance.
• Their showroom features unique and locally made items.

Siem Reap's oldest market, offering a vibrant mix of local produce, souvenirs, textiles, and street food. A great place to experience local commerce.

• Be prepared for sensory overload; it's bustling and colorful.
• Practice your bargaining skills for souvenirs.

An elegant restaurant offering refined Khmer cuisine in a beautiful riverside setting. Known for its sophisticated ambiance and delicious traditional dishes.

The earliest temples in the Angkorian era, predating Angkor Wat. These brick and laterite structures offer a glimpse into the foundations of Khmer architecture.

• Preah Ko is known for its well-preserved stucco work.
• Bakong was the first temple-mountain in the region.

A stilted village on the Tonle Sap Lake, where houses are built on stilts to adapt to the seasonal flooding. Offers a unique perspective on local life and the lake's ecosystem.

• Boat tours are the best way to explore the village.
• The best time to visit is during the wet season when the water levels are high.

A captivating social enterprise featuring energetic and artistic performances by young Cambodians. It's a blend of theater, music, dance, and acrobatics.

• Book tickets in advance as shows are popular.
• Arrive early to get good seats.

Provides an excellent overview of Khmer history, art, and culture, with a focus on the Angkorian period. Its extensive collection helps contextualize the temple visits.

• Consider renting an audio guide for a more in-depth experience.
• It's a good place to visit before or after exploring the temples.

A beloved local restaurant known for its authentic Khmer dishes and friendly service. A portion of their profits supports local charities.

• Try the Fish Amok, a classic Cambodian curry.

Learn about the incredible work of APOPO, an NGO that trains rats to detect landmines and tuberculosis. A unique and impactful experience.

• The center is staffed by passionate individuals who can answer many questions.
• This offers a different perspective on the challenges faced by Cambodia.

A stylish, dimly lit bar with a vintage Shanghai ambiance. It's a great spot for expertly crafted cocktails and a relaxed evening.

• Try their signature lychee martini.

An atmospheric temple largely unrestored, swallowed by the jungle. Its collapsed walls and fallen stones create a sense of adventure and discovery.

• Wear sturdy shoes as you'll be climbing over fallen stones.
• This temple is further afield, making it a full-day excursion.

Simple local eateries offering basic Khmer dishes. A chance to taste authentic flavors away from the main tourist hubs.

A less touristy floating village on the Tonle Sap Lake, known for its impressive stilted houses and authentic local life. It offers a more immersive experience than Kampong Phluk.

• This village is further north on Tonle Sap, offering a different perspective.
• Opt for a guided boat tour to navigate the canals and understand local life.

A massive temple-mountain built of brick and laterite, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a less crowded alternative for sunrise or sunset.

• The upper levels provide excellent vantage points for photography.
• Its reddish hue is particularly striking in the morning light.

A temple situated on an island in the now-dry East Baray reservoir. It features impressive elephant statues at its corners.

A bustling local market where you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to household goods and inexpensive souvenirs. A great spot for observing daily life.

• Visit in the morning for the freshest produce displays.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

An excellent Japanese restaurant offering high-quality sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese delights. A welcome change of pace from Khmer cuisine.

Engage in a hands-on Khmer cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes. Many classes include a market visit to source fresh ingredients.

• Book in advance, as classes often have limited spots.
• Choose a class that includes a market tour for a fuller experience.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon relaxing by your hotel's pool, perhaps with a refreshing drink. A perfect way to recharge after active temple exploration.

• Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.

A popular restaurant offering a wide variety of Khmer barbecue and traditional dishes in a casual, open-air setting. Known for its grilled meats and seafood.

• Their barbecue platters are great for sharing.

Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from local shops or markets.

Enjoy a final Cambodian meal at a restaurant of your choice before heading to the airport.

Depart from Siem Reap, filled with memories of ancient temples and vibrant culture.