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Planning a trip to Siem Reap? You’re in the right place!
This small Cambodian city is world-famous for the temples of Angkor, but there’s so much more to enjoy beyond the ancient ruins. We loved how Siem Reap blends history and tradition with a laid-back, friendly vibe, with unforgettable tuk-tuk rides through town, evenings at lively markets, and cultural performances that bring Cambodia’s stories to life.
With three days here, you can watch sunrise over Angkor Wat, explore temples and nature, discover local food, and still have time to relax by the pool. This itinerary covers all the highlights and a few hidden gems to make your visit unforgettable.
Ready to get started? Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Siem Reap was this sunrise Angkor Wat tour. Watching the temple appear against the glowing sky and exploring Bayon’s serene stone faces with our guide made this experience absolutely unforgettable!
Check out the 2,500+ five-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
Siem Reap may be small, but that’s part of what makes it so easy and fun to explore. The town feels safe and welcoming, and getting around is simple thanks to the Grab app (Southeast Asia’s version of Uber), which lets you order tuk-tuks without the hassle of haggling. It’s cheap, reliable, and perfect for hopping between temples, restaurants, and evening activities.
Most of the city’s highlights are within a quick ride of each other, and once you’re downtown, it’s very walkable with plenty of shops, markets, and cafés to enjoy. With three days, you’ll balance early mornings at Angkor’s temples with downtime by the pool, unique cultural experiences, and flavorful Cambodian meals, all at a pace that feels both exciting and relaxed.
Day 1: Wake up early for a sunrise tour of Angkor Wat and surrounding temples, then recharge with a relaxed afternoon before dinner and a dazzling show at the Phare Cambodian Circus.
Day 2: Enjoy breakfast at a local café, visit the Botanical Gardens and APOPO, explore downtown Siem Reap, and spend the evening on a sunset food tour by tuk-tuk.
Day 3: Choose between a cultural visit to the Tonle Sap Floating Village or a full-day adventure at Kulen Mountain, then finish with a traditional dinner and cocktails in a wooden Khmer house.
Day 1
Full day – See the Angkor Temples starting at sunrise
If there’s one experience in Siem Reap you absolutely can’t miss, it’s watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat on this full-day tour. Your day begins with a 4:30 am pickup, and while it feels painfully early, the moment you see the temple slowly appear against the morning sky, you’ll know it was worth every lost minute of sleep.
The air is cool, the crowds are hushed, and the reflection of the towers shimmering in the lotus pond is one of those travel moments you’ll carry with you forever!
From there, our guide, David, led us deeper into the Angkor complex. At Bayon Temple, he pointed out the 54 towers topped with 216 serene stone faces, each one seeming to watch from a different angle. Exploring the maze of passages and terraces with David’s stories about King Jayavarman VII made the history feel vivid and real, rather than just stone ruins.
By the time we returned around 12:30 pm, we were grateful to have seen so much before the midday heat set in. It’s no surprise this tour has over 2,500 five-star reviews—you’ll leave tired but exhilarated, already dreaming of your next temple adventure. With dozens more scattered across the region, you could easily spend several days here if temples are your passion!
Reserve your spots on this trip-defining tour here!
Related Read: Planning your temple visits? Take a look at our guide to the best Angkor Wat tours in Siem Reap here to find the perfect experience for your trip.
Lunch – Try Me Restaurant
After a busy morning exploring the temples, ask your guide to drop you at Try Me Restaurant. This cozy, budget-friendly spot is perfect for refueling after hours of walking and climbing around Angkor.
We loved how welcoming it felt, with simple décor, friendly service, and a menu full of Khmer favorites alongside a few Western staples. The dishes are tasty, filling, and very reasonably priced, which makes it a favorite among travelers. It’s nothing fancy, but after a sunrise start and a morning of temple-hopping, it’s exactly the kind of easy, comfortable meal you’ll be craving.
Afternoon – Relax at your hotel
By the time you finish the temple tour and lunch, you’ll be more than ready for a break. The heat, early wake-up, and hours of exploring really catch up with you, so this afternoon is best spent unwinding. We recommend booking a hotel with a pool. Siem Reap has some fantastic options, even at the budget level, where you can stretch out in the sun with a cold drink in hand.
This is the perfect chance to recharge, maybe even squeeze in a quick nap, before heading out again. Trust us, you’ll appreciate the downtime, especially with a fun evening activity still to come.
Dinner – Nomad Eatery
For a meal that’s every bit as memorable as your day of exploring, make your way to Nomad Eatery, one of the standout restaurants in Siem Reap. The menu is a great mix of Khmer classics and creative Western-style dishes, so there’s something for everyone, no matter what you’re craving.
We couldn’t get enough of the kale and crispy pork belly, but everything we tried was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. The atmosphere is relaxed and modern, making it a great place to ease back into the evening before your night out.
Evening – See Cambodia’s famous Phare Circus
There’s no better way to cap off your first day in Siem Reap than with a night at the Phare Circus, one of Cambodia’s most inspiring cultural experiences. This exciting show starts at 8 pm (plan to arrive by 7:30 pm), and in just 10–15 minutes by tuk-tuk, you’ll be at the big-top style theater, buzzing with anticipation.
What makes Phare so special isn’t just the jaw-dropping acrobatics, but the stories behind them. The performers are all graduates of Phare Ponleu Selpak, an NGO that trains young people from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds in the arts. Through dance, live music, theater, and circus skills, they bring Cambodian history and folklore to life with an energy that feels both raw and deeply moving.
We were blown away by the mix of aerial stunts, juggling, and contortion, all woven into storylines inspired by the performers’ own lives and culture. It’s the kind of show that makes you laugh, gasp, and even tear up at moments. For the best experience, avoid Section C (the view isn’t great) and book tickets in Section A or B, where you’ll feel right in the middle of the action.
Phare is more than a circus; it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the Cambodian spirit. It’s an evening you’ll remember long after your trip is over.
Secure your seats for this mesmerizing (and popular!) show here
Related Read: Don’t wait too long to book a hotel! Our where to stay in Siem Reap guide has the areas and hotels we recommend.
Day 2
Breakfast – Brother Bong Cafe
Your second day in Siem Reap deserves to start somewhere special, and Brother Bong Cafe is a longtime favorite with both travelers and locals. The open-air setting feels bright and breezy in the morning, and the staff greet you with the kind of warmth that makes you want to linger a little longer over your meal.
The coffee here is smooth and full of flavor, just what you need after an early wake-up or a busy first day. Alongside it, you’ll find a menu of hearty breakfast plates, fresh pastries, and lighter bites for those who prefer something simple. With its relaxed energy and consistently good food, Brother Bong Cafe is the perfect launchpad for a day of exploring.
Morning – Botanical Gardens and APOPO
After breakfast, hop in a tuk-tuk for a quick journey (less than 10 minutes) to two of Siem Reap’s most unique city sights. Together, the Angkor Botanical Gardens and APOPO Visitor Center make for a fascinating and well-balanced morning, one part nature, one part meaningful learning experience! Plan on spending about 2 to 2.5 hours between the two.
Botanical Gardens
Start with a stroll through the Angkor Botanical Gardens, a peaceful green space created to showcase Cambodia’s incredible biodiversity. The gardens were first established in Cambodia to conserve native plant species, and today they cover everything from medicinal herbs and tropical orchids to fruit trees and towering palms.
Walking the shaded paths feels like stepping into a living museum of Cambodian flora, and the careful landscaping makes it easy to take your time and enjoy the details. There are benches scattered throughout, and plenty of photo-worthy corners if you want a quiet moment to pause. Admission is free, but do note that the gardens are closed on Mondays.
APOPO
Just an 8-minute walk from the gardens, APOPO is one of the most eye-opening stops in Siem Reap. This nonprofit trains Giant African Pouched Rats to safely detect land mines and tuberculosis, two issues that have deeply affected Cambodia’s history and public health.
Visiting gives you the chance to learn how the rats are trained, hear about the impact of their work, and even watch a live demonstration. Tours happen every 30 minutes and last about an hour, and admission is $10 USD. It’s an inspiring experience that shows how innovation and compassion can make a real difference.
Light lunch – Elia Greek Kitchen
By the time you’ve finished at APOPO, you’ll probably be ready for something light, and Elia Greek Kitchen is just the place. About a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride into downtown, this cozy restaurant highlights the international side of Siem Reap’s food scene.
The menu leans on fresh, Mediterranean flavors with plenty of lighter options, from crisp salads and mezze plates to grilled meats and seafood. We especially liked how easy it was to share a few small dishes without overfilling ourselves. Since you’ve got a food tour coming up this evening, Elia is the perfect spot to enjoy a flavorful but not-too-heavy lunch.
Afternoon – Explore Downtown Siem Reap
After lunch, spend a relaxed few hours exploring downtown Siem Reap. It’s a compact and walkable area filled with shops, cafés, and street corners that show off the town’s charm. Here are a few highlights worth checking out:
- Old Market – Right across from Elia, this bustling market is one of the most popular in town. You’ll find everything from produce and spices to souvenirs and handicrafts. Take your time browsing, and don’t miss the little alleyways nearby, they’re lined with even more boutique shops and cafés waiting to be discovered.
- Pub Street – By night, Pub Street is Siem Reap’s party hub, but even during the day, it’s fun to walk through. The street is lined with bars, restaurants, and quirky businesses—yes, including the famous fish pedicure spots if you’re feeling adventurous! At night, it’s strung with neon lights and buzzing with energy, but it’s worth a look at any hour.
- Walk along the river – Running the length of town, the river is flanked by leafy paths that make for a pleasant stroll. You’ll pass bridges, temples, and plenty of people-watching opportunities. The water itself can look muddy depending on the season, and while locals sometimes swim in it, it’s best to just enjoy the view from the banks.
This little circuit through downtown is easygoing and gives you a nice taste of daily life in Siem Reap before your evening food tour.
Evening – Sunset food tour
Cambodian cuisine doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves, which is why this sunset food tour by tuk-tuk is such a treat. Hotel pickup starts around 4:30 pm, and from the very first stop, we could tell this wasn’t your average food tour. Every restaurant and stall we visited was carefully chosen to showcase authentic Cambodian flavors you’d probably never find on your own.
One of our first tastings was a unique noodle dish that originated in northwestern Cambodia, and this little restaurant was the only place in town serving it. As the evening went on, we stopped at street vendors, markets, and tucked-away eateries, each with its own specialty.
Watching the sun set over a lotus field was a beautiful break, and it set the stage for what turned out to be the highlight of the night: a home-cooked meal at a villager’s house. Sitting down to freshly caught fish while our host explained how they fish the nearby Tonle Sap was such a personal and memorable experience.
By the time we returned around 8:30 pm, we felt like we had tasted a whole new side of Cambodia. It wasn’t just about the food; it was the chance to connect with the culture, traditions, and warmth of the people through each dish. But don’t just take our word for it—read HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why this is a top-rated tour in Siem Reap!
Book this amazing food tour here, and you can pay later!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
On your final day in Siem Reap, you’ll have the chance to pick between two very different full-day tours, depending on the kind of experience you want. If you’re curious about Cambodia’s traditional way of life and want to spend time on the water, a visit to the Tonle Sap Floating Village is a great choice. It’s cultural, eye-opening, and gives you insight into daily life in this unique community.
On the other hand, if you’re craving fresh air, waterfalls, and a touch of adventure, this Kulen Mountain tour takes you out into nature, with jungle walks, sacred temples, and a refreshing swim at the falls. Both are fantastic options; it just depends on whether you’re in the mood for cultural immersion or natural beauty.
Option 1: Tonle Sap Floating Village
This Tonle Sap Lake half-day tour is an unforgettable way to experience Cambodia beyond the temples. Spending the morning on Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, reveals a side of the country that many travelers miss. Fed by the Mekong River, this vast body of water has sustained communities for thousands of years, and visiting the floating villages here offers a glimpse into daily life that feels both authentic and eye-opening.
Departing at 8:30 am and returning around 1:30 pm, this is the perfect half-day adventure if you’re looking to connect with the culture and history of the region.
With our guide translating along the way, we took boats out to the floating village, waved back at smiling locals, and learned how families here have adapted to life on the water. The journey itself was an adventure, a bumpy ride down dirt roads followed by peaceful stretches across the lake. Everywhere we went, our guide shared insights about Cambodian traditions, food, transportation, and how life has changed over the years.
It’s those little moments, trying out a few words of Khmer, sharing laughs with villagers, or simply watching children play on the lake, that made this one of the highlights of our trip. If you’re looking for an authentic experience that goes far beyond sightseeing, this tour is one you shouldn’t miss.
Book this once-in-a-lifetime experience easily here!
Option 2: Kulen National Park and 1,000 Lingas
If you’d prefer a full day surrounded by nature, this Kulen National Park tour is an incredible way to escape the city and dive into Cambodia’s sacred landscapes. Departing at 8 am with hotel pickup and drop-off included, this tour takes you to Kulen Mountain, a site revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Along the way, you’ll discover monasteries, a massive reclining Buddha carved into the rock, and ancient jungle ruins that make the area feel almost mythical.
The highlight for us was the short hike to the 1,000 Lingas, where centuries-old stone carvings sit beneath the clear waters of a running river. With the sound of rushing water and the forest all around, it felt like an archeological wonder and natural marvel rolled into one. Our guide, Chenda, was fantastic, weaving stories of history and spirituality that brought the carvings to life.
From there, the adventure continues with stops at sweeping viewpoints over the Kulen Mountain Valley, a visit to a quiet local pagoda, and finally a chance to cool off in the refreshing Kulen Waterfall. We loved swimming here after a hot day of hiking; it was the perfect ending to a nature-filled escape.
If you love history, nature, and the idea of ending your day in a jungle waterfall, this is a tour you won’t want to miss.
Read recent reviews and book this five-star nature tour here!
Afternoon – Downtime and exploring
If you choose the Tonle Sap Floating Village tour, you’ll be back in Siem Reap by early afternoon, giving you a few extra hours to enjoy the city at a slower pace. This is a great opportunity to mix in a little culture, shopping, or relaxation, depending on your mood. Here are a few options we recommend:
- Made in Cambodia Market – A wonderful spot to pick up unique souvenirs. Everything here is locally made, from handicrafts and art to jewelry and textiles, so you’ll be supporting Cambodian artisans directly.
- Angkor National Museum – If you want to dive deeper into the history behind the temples you’ve already seen, this museum is excellent. The galleries walk you through the Khmer Empire’s rise and influence, with fascinating artifacts and beautifully presented exhibits.
- The Aviary Hotel – Looking for pure relaxation? Grab a day pass to the rooftop pool at The Aviary Hotel. It’s stunning, peaceful, and a refreshing way to cool off from the afternoon heat.
- Wat Preah Prom Rath – One of the prettiest temples in downtown Siem Reap, this colorful wat is worth a quick stop. It’s easy to reach, just a short walk from the market area, and the intricate details make it a beautiful glimpse into everyday Buddhist life.
Dinner – Khmer Grill
End your Siem Reap adventure with a meal at Khmer Grill, a favorite among both travelers and locals for its great food and easygoing vibe! The menu covers all the Cambodian staples, from fragrant amok curry to freshly grilled skewers, and the prices are refreshingly affordable. The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming, making it the perfect place to savor one last taste of Khmer cuisine.
If you’re in the mood for something different, Tequila Bar & Restaurant is right next door and serves up some of the best tacos in town. It’s a fun alternative if you’re craving a break from Asian food before heading out for your final evening stop.
Evening – Cocktails at Asana Wooden House
There’s no better way to toast your final night in Siem Reap than with a drink at Asana Wooden House, a beautifully preserved Khmer wooden home that’s been reimagined as a cocktail bar. Tucked away from the bustle of Pub Street, it feels like a hidden gem where old-world charm meets modern mixology.
The drinks here are creative and beautifully balanced, often infused with local herbs and spices for a Cambodian twist. Pair that with the cozy, laid-back setting, and you’ve got the perfect place to reflect on your trip and toast to three incredible days in Siem Reap.
Related Read: Want even more ideas? Check out our full guide to the best things to do in Siem Reap here for can’t-miss experiences beyond this three-day itinerary.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Now that your Siem Reap trip is all planned, it’s time to find a place to stay! Whether you want to stay somewhere luxurious or budget-friendly, finding the right base will make your trip even better. Since popular spots can fill up fast, it’s best to reserve your accommodation early. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best places to stay in Siem Reap for every budget below:
Angkor Village Hotel – $$$
Angkor Village Hotel is a luxury five-star stay that blends traditional Khmer architecture with modern comforts. Located in a peaceful area just minutes from Siem Reap’s bustling markets and temples, this elegant retreat features lush gardens, a lagoon-style pool, and beautifully designed wooden bungalows. With an on-site spa and a top-rated restaurant serving authentic Cambodian cuisine, it’s the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring!
Prices vary depending on the time of year, but usually start around $150 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Koulen Central Hotel – $$
Koulen Central Hotel is a stylish mid-range stay in Siem Reap, offering modern rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and some with balconies and city views. Guests can relax in the rooftop swimming pool, unwind in the sauna and hot tub, or enjoy a drink at the on-site bar. With a prime location just a short walk from King’s Road Angkor and Pub Street, it’s a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the city!
Prices are usually around $90 USD per night, and you can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For an affordable stay without compromising on comfort, Siem Reap Palace Hotel & Spa is a fantastic choice. The rooms are modern and air-conditioned, with private bathrooms and plenty of space for families or couples. Guests can also enjoy a saltwater pool, sun terrace, and even a kids’ pool, which makes it an especially good pick for those traveling with little ones. The location is central too, just a short walk to King’s Road Angkor and Artisans D’Angkor, with Angkor Wat only 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) away.
Rooms here average around $110 USD per night, and you can check availability and book it on Booking.com.
For even more great options, check out all of Siem Reap’s hotels listed here!
Related Read: For a deeper dive into the best neighborhoods and hotels, don’t miss our detailed guide on where to stay in Siem Reap here—complete with recommendations for every budget.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Siem Reap is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression, and we’re certain this three-day itinerary will help you see why. From sunrise over Angkor Wat and tuk-tuk food tours to floating villages and evening circus performances, it’s a city where history, culture, and everyday life come together.
If you’re planning more adventures in the region, don’t miss our other Cambodia guides here—we’ve put together detailed blogs on where to stay, the best tours, and unique cultural experiences. Or, dive into some of our most popular posts to start planning your journey:
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