7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Siem Reap, Cambodia

Day 1: Arrival and Temple Orientation

• Accommodation: Grand Hotel d’Angkor or Templestay Guesthouse
• Activities: Settle in and get acquainted with the local area. Visit the Angkor National Museum to understand the history of the Angkor temples.
• Where to Eat: Angkor Cafe for Khmer cuisine or Pub Street for Western food.
• Things to Know: The main currency is Cambodian Riel, but US dollars are widely accepted. Tip is appreciated in the service industry.

Day 2: Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

• Activities: Visit the iconic Angkor Wat at sunrise. Spend the day exploring Angkor Thom, including Bayon Temple, Baphuon, Terrace of Elephants, and Terrace of the Leper King.
• Where to Eat: Enjoy a packed lunch near the temples or return to Pub Street for dinner.
• Tips: Hire a tuk-tuk driver for the day to navigate the temples (about $15-$20). Wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Day 3: Ta Prohm and More Temples

• Activities: Visit Ta Prohm, famous for its large trees growing out of the temple ruins. Continue to Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, and East Mebon.
• Where to Eat: Khmer Food Restaurant near Angkor Wat for authentic cuisine.
• Transportation: Tuk-tuk or rent a bike if you’re up for it!

Day 4: Banteay Srei and Local Village

• Activities: Travel to Banteay Srei, the “Citadel of Women.” In the afternoon, visit a local village like Beng Mealea or Kbal Spean (The River of 1000 Lingas).
• Where to Eat: A restaurant in the visited village for an authentic experience.
• Tips: It’s a longer drive, so start early and bring water.

Day 5: Free Day

• Activities: Relax by the pool, get a massage, or explore local markets like Psar Chas (Old Market) and Psar Leu (New Market). You might also consider visiting Artisans Angkor or Angkor Handicraft Workshop.
• Where to Eat: Try out the street food at the markets or enjoy a meal at Malis Restaurant.

Day 6: Tonle Sap Lake and Floating Villages

• Activities: Take a boat tour of Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Visit the floating villages of Kampong Phluk or Chong Kneas.
• Where to Eat: Lunch on the boat or at a restaurant near the lake.
• Tips: Bring insect repellent and sunscreen. Be prepared for potential rain showers.

Day 7: Departure

• Activities: Spend your last hours in Siem Reap doing some last-minute shopping, or visit the Angkor Tailors to pick up a custom-made item.
• Where to Eat: Have a farewell meal at a restaurant of your choice before heading to the airport.
• Transportation: Organize a taxi or tuk-tuk ride to the Siem Reap International Airport for your departure.

Enjoy your trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia! Embrace the culture, taste the food, and make unforgettable memories.