Siem Reap 2 weeks

The main gateway to Siem Reap, offering a clean and modern arrival experience. It's a relatively small airport, making transit efficient.

Settle into your accommodation. Mid-range hotels in Siem Reap offer comfortable amenities and often feature swimming pools, a welcome respite from the heat.

• Consider hotels near the Wat Bo area for a balance of quiet and proximity to town.

The bustling heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, lined with restaurants, bars, and market stalls. It's a lively spot to experience the city's energy and grab a casual dinner.

• Explore the side streets for less touristy and potentially better value food options.

Witness the iconic sunrise over the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex. This is a truly breathtaking start to the day, best viewed from the reflecting pools in front of the main temple.

• Purchase your Angkor Pass the day before to save time. The 3-day pass is recommended for this itinerary.
• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.

Explore the vast and intricate Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Marvel at its bas-reliefs, galleries, and towering spires.

• Allow ample time to explore the different levels and courtyards.

Enter the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom through its impressive southern gate, adorned with stone faces. The highlight is the Bayon temple, famous for its enigmatic smiling faces carved into its towers.

• The smiling faces of Bayon are particularly photogenic in the mid-morning light.

Discover the atmospheric Ta Prohm, known for the giant tree roots that snake over and through its stone structures. This temple was famously used as a filming location for 'Lara Croft: Tomb Raider'.

• Look for the best photo opportunities where nature has reclaimed the temple.

Enjoy authentic Khmer cuisine in a relaxed setting. This mid-range restaurant offers a variety of traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Visit Banteay Srei, the 'Citadel of Beauty', renowned for its exquisite, intricate carvings in pink sandstone. It's located further out but offers a unique artistic experience.

• The detailed carvings are best appreciated in the soft morning light.

Gain insight into Cambodia's recent history at the Landmine Museum, which educates visitors about the impact of landmines and the ongoing demining efforts. It's a sobering but important visit.

• This museum is located near Banteay Srei, making it a convenient stop.

Explore Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise that revives traditional Khmer craftsmanship. You can observe artisans at work creating silk, stone carvings, and lacquerware.

• This is a great place to purchase high-quality, ethically made souvenirs.

Dine at Marum, a popular restaurant run by Friends International, which trains disadvantaged youth in hospitality. Enjoy delicious tapas-style Khmer and international dishes in a charming garden setting.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner.

Explore the atmospheric Banteay Kdei, a Buddhist temple with a more relaxed feel than some of the larger complexes. Its galleries and courtyards offer many photographic opportunities.

• This temple is less crowded, allowing for more intimate exploration.

Visit Ta Som, a small but charming temple featuring a striking face tower and a famous eastern gopura (gateway) almost entirely enveloped by a tree.

• The tree-covered gateway is a highlight for photographers.

Discover Neak Pean, a unique island temple located in the center of a man-made reservoir. It's known for its symbolic representation of the Buddhist cosmology.

• Access is via a wooden walkway over the water, offering interesting perspectives.

Indulge in refined Khmer cuisine at Viroth's, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious dishes. It's a popular spot for a more upscale dining experience.

• Book well in advance, as this restaurant is highly sought after.

Take a boat trip to Kampong Phluk, a stilted village on the Tonle Sap Lake. Observe the unique way of life adapted to the seasonal water levels, with houses built high on stilts.

• The best time to visit for a full lake experience is during the wet season (July-November).

Enjoy a simple, local lunch at a restaurant near the Tonle Sap Lake. This will offer a taste of regional flavors in a casual setting.

After a morning on the lake, return to your hotel to relax and enjoy the facilities, especially the swimming pool, to escape the heat.

Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a stylish, retro-themed bar. Miss Wong offers a more sophisticated evening ambiance away from the bustle of Pub Street.

Explore the Rolous Group, the earliest temples of the Angkorian era. Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei offer a glimpse into the architectural evolution preceding the grander Angkor Wat.

• These temples are less visited, offering a more serene experience.

Have lunch at a simple restaurant near the Rolous Group, experiencing local Khmer flavors.

Wander through Siem Reap's Old Market, a vibrant hub for local produce, souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It’s a great place for people-watching and photography.

• Bargaining is expected for souvenirs.

Experience a traditional Khmer BBQ, where you grill a variety of meats and vegetables at your table. It's a fun and interactive dining experience.

Take a day trip to Phnom Kulen, a sacred mountain plateau known for its waterfalls, reclining Buddha statue, and the River of a Thousand Lingas. It's a popular pilgrimage site.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring swimwear for the waterfall.

Enjoy a simple lunch at one of the local eateries within Phnom Kulen National Park, often included in tours.

Hike to Kbal Spean to see the intricate carvings of lingas and other deities on the riverbed. The walk through the forest is also pleasant.

• The carvings are best viewed when the water level is low.

After a long day trip, opt for a relaxed dinner at a restaurant near your hotel.

Gain a deeper understanding of the Angkorian era through the museum's extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and informative displays. It provides excellent context for your temple visits.

• Consider renting an audio guide for a more comprehensive experience.

Enjoy a peaceful lunch in a beautiful garden setting. This restaurant offers a tranquil escape with delicious Khmer and international dishes.

Visit Wat Bo, one of Siem Reap's oldest and most revered temples. It's known for its vibrant murals depicting the Jataka tales and Reamker.

• Respect the local monks and observe temple etiquette.

Experience the magic of Phare, a non-profit circus that showcases the talents of Cambodian youth through acrobatics, theater, and music. It's an inspiring and entertaining evening.

• Book tickets in advance, as shows are popular.

Explore Banteay Samre, a beautifully restored temple with intricate carvings and a unique architectural style reminiscent of Angkor Wat. It's often considered one of the most complete Angkorian buildings.

• The temple's symmetry and detail make it a photographer's delight.

Enjoy a simple lunch at a local eatery near Banteay Samre, a convenient stop after visiting the temple.

Discover Preah Khan, a vast monastic complex that combines structures from different periods. It's known for its long corridors, multi-story buildings, and a central sanctuary.

• The 'Hall of Dancers' offers unique photographic compositions.

Dine at Haven, another excellent social enterprise restaurant training disadvantaged youth. They serve delicious fusion cuisine in a relaxed, stylish setting.

• Reservations are recommended.

Participate in a hands-on Khmer cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes. You'll typically visit a local market to gather ingredients before cooking.

• Many reputable schools offer classes, check reviews for quality.

Savor the dishes you've prepared during your cooking class. This is usually included as part of the class experience.

Visit this active Buddhist temple in Siem Reap town, known for its colorful architecture and serene atmosphere. It's a pleasant spot for a quiet stroll and photography.

Enjoy a meal at Dawson's, a restaurant offering a mix of Western and Asian comfort food. It's a good option if you're looking for familiar flavors.

Embark on a day trip to Banteay Chhmar, a vast and remote temple complex known for its impressive bas-reliefs and atmospheric ruins. It offers a sense of discovery away from the main tourist trail.

• This is a long day trip; consider hiring a private car or joining a specialized tour.
• The temple is known for its unique 'face towers' similar to Bayon but less visited.

Have lunch at a local restaurant near the Banteay Chhmar temple complex, enjoying simple Khmer fare.

After a long day of exploration, enjoy a relaxed and casual dinner back in Siem Reap.

Explore Beng Mealea, a sprawling jungle temple that remains largely unrestored, offering a sense of adventure and discovery. Its collapsed galleries and massive tree roots create a mysterious atmosphere.

• Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. Some areas require climbing over rubble.

Enjoy a simple lunch at one of the local restaurants near Beng Mealea, a convenient stop after exploring the temple.

Experience rural Cambodian life by visiting a local village on the way back from Beng Mealea. This offers a glimpse into everyday life outside the city.

• Be respectful of local customs and ask permission before taking photos.

Enjoy a unique dining experience with a focus on rum-infused dishes and cocktails. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a creative menu.

For the truly adventurous, consider a very long day trip to Preah Vihear, a stunning Khmer temple perched atop a cliff with breathtaking views. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• This is an extremely long day trip (over 3 hours drive each way), best done with a private tour.
• Ensure you have your passport for border checks.

Instead of a long day trip, explore Siem Reap's contemporary art galleries and studios. Discover local artists and their work.

Enjoy lunch, either at a local eatery if visiting Preah Vihear, or at a cafe in Siem Reap if exploring the art scene.

Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment or traditional Khmer massage to unwind after days of exploration.

Enjoy a final, exquisite meal at Cuisine Wat Damnak, renowned for its innovative Khmer tasting menus that change seasonally. It's a perfect way to celebrate your trip.

• Reservations are essential and should be made weeks in advance.

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

Enjoy a final Cambodian meal at a cafe or restaurant of your choice.

Depart from Siem Reap International Airport.