Siem Reap, Cambodia 4 Day Itinerary

Siem Reap, Cambodia 4-Day Itinerary (Using Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival & Angkor National Museum

  • 🛬 Arrival at Siem Reap International Airport

  • 🏛 Angkor National Museum

    • Explore the museum to learn about the Khmer civilization, especially the Angkor period (10th–15th centuries). It provides a good background for your upcoming temple visits. Open daily from 8:30 AM – 6 PM.

  • 🍴 Dinner at Cuisine Wat Damnak

    • Enjoy an authentic Cambodian tasting menu prepared by Chef Ny, who promotes the use of locally sourced and organic ingredients. Reservations recommended.

Day 2: Angkor Temples

  • 🌞 Early Morning Visit to Angkor Wat

    • Start your day with a visit to the iconic Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world. Best visited at sunrise for stunning photos and a peaceful atmosphere.

  • 🍩 Breakfast at Angkor Cafe

    • Fuel up with some delicious breakfast options like traditional Khmer noodle dishes or Western favorites.

  • 🏠 Ta Prohm & Ta Keo Temples

    • Continue your temple exploration with Ta Prohm, known for its massive trees growing out of the ruins, and Ta Keo, a mountain-style pyramid-like temple.

  • 🌮 Lunch at Local Khmer Restaurant (e.g., Marum)

    • Sample more Cambodian cuisine at this social enterprise restaurant, which supports marginalized communities in Siem Reap.

  • 🏠 Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple

    • Explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom and its famous Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces.

  • 🍕 Dinner at The Sugar Palm Restaurant

    • Savor contemporary Cambodian cuisine with a modern twist in a charming garden setting. Reservations recommended.

Day 3: Temples & Local Experiences

  • 🌞 Preah Khan, Neak Pean & Ta Som Temples

    • Venture off the beaten path to discover these less crowded temples and enjoy their unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

  • 🍩 Breakfast at Siem Reap Market

    • Sample local street food in this bustling market, offering a variety of Khmer dishes and snacks.

  • 🏠 Banteay Srei & Beng Mealea Temples

    • Travel further to visit the intricately carved Banteay Srei and the less restored Beng Mealea temples.

  • 🍕 Lunch at Romdeng Restaurant

    • Support another social enterprise, where young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds learn hospitality skills while serving delicious Cambodian dishes.

  • 🌃 Pub Street & Night Market

    • Spend your evening exploring the vibrant Pub Street for food and drinks or shop at the Night Market for souvenirs.

Day 4: Tonle Sap Lake & Departure

  • 🚤 Boat Trip on Tonle Sap Lake

    • Visit the floating villages of Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas to learn about the local way of life and observe the unique ecosystem of the lake.

  • 🍩 Breakfast at your Hotel

    • Enjoy one last meal before checking out and heading to the airport.

📝 Things to Know:

  • Temples require appropriate clothing (long pants, covered shoulders) – pack accordingly or bring a scarf/shawl for coverage.
  • Always carry small bills in USD for tips and entrance fees.
  • Bartering is common in markets and with tuk-tuk drivers – don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
  • Taxis and Grab are available if you prefer not to use tuk-tuks.
  • Be mindful of the local culture and customs, including removing shoes when entering homes or temples.

🌐 Resources: