Visiting Angkor Wat in Siem Reap has been a highlight of my travels. I’ve been lucky to visit it twice and each time I was amazed by its beauty and rich history.

In this guide, I’ll help you plan a perfect 3-day Siem Reap itinerary. From must-see highlights to the best hotels and restaurants, you’ll get tips to save time and fully enjoy your trip!

About Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest temple in the world, built 900 years ago by King Suryavarman II in Cambodia. The temple was first for Hindu gods and later became a Buddhist temple.

It was made with huge stones from Mount Kulen, 50 kilometers away, and transported using canals and rafts. Its walls feature over 3,000 carvings of Apsaras or celestial dancers.

There are so many Apsaras at Angkor Wat because they symbolize divine beauty, joy, and the connection between heaven and earth. As celestial dancers, they were believed to entertain gods and bring blessings.

Preparing your trip

With so much information online, choosing a destination that matches your time, budget, and interests can feel overwhelming. I created this travel guide—to help you prepare for an unforgettable trip to Siem Reap.

If you’re exploring Asia, Siem Reap should be on your list. Angkor Wat’s ancient temples are unforgettable and rightly called the “eighth wonder of the world”.

For who is this guide?

This guide is ideal for travelers with limited time, exploring Angkor Wat’s temples while enjoying unique luxury hotels in Siem Reap’s city center and the rural outskirts.

Traveling as a couple with our teenage son, we enjoyed a mix of cultural exploration and relaxing family activities. Our hotels had swimming pools, bike rentals, and excellent dining options.

Essential things to do before traveling

Get your E-Visa on time

Apply for your E-Visa at least 10 days before your flight. I’ve visited Cambodia twice and had no issues with the process. It takes up to 5 working days, and you’ll receive the visa via email.

Be cautious of unofficial sites—use the official government site to apply. At the time of writing, the E-Visa costs $30 plus a $6 processing fee (check for the latest fees).

Buy Your Angkor Wat Pass in Advance

Whether organizing your itinerary or hiring a guide, it’s a good idea to purchase your Angkor Wat pass online. It will ensure smoother access and save time during peak travel seasons.

You can choose between a 1-day pass ($37), a 3-day pass ($62), or a 7-day pass ($72). I recommend the 3-day pass, even if you plan to cover most temples in 2 days. Buy tickets directly from the official site: Angkor Enterprise.

Hire a Professional Tour Guide

During my first visit to Angkor Wat, I hired a professional tour guide, and it was an incredible experience. I even learned personal stories from the guide’s perspective, which added depth to my journey.

It sabed me time and effort in planning routes, as the temple complex is massive. It’s also a great way to support the local community. Prices are affordable, and I highly recommend Happy Angkor Wat Tour. Here’s the link: TripAdvisor.

Pack the Right Stuff

Women must cover their knees and shoulders when visiting temples, so bring long skirts, lightweight trousers, and short-sleeve T-shirts. For men, bermudas up to the knees and short-sleeve t-shirts are generally acceptable.

I found great hot-weather clothing at Uniqlo, including lightweight, UV-protective trousers that dry quickly in the rain. Cambodia’s weather is hot, so carrying a small umbrella, hat, or cap is essential to stay cool and protected from the sun.

Currency Tips

Cambodia’s local currency is the Riel, but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in Siem Reap’s markets, restaurants, and hotels. Carry plenty of $1, $5, and $10 bills, as they’re very handy (coins aren’t accepted).

Cash is essential for small expenses, like paying Tuk Tuk drivers or dining at places without card payment options. Keeping some smaller bills ensures smooth transactions during your visit.

Get an Affordable Overseas Data Plan

Even if your hotel has Wi-Fi, having mobile data is handy for sharing special moments or finding the best restaurants in Siem Reap. I avoid changing SIM cards to prevent losing mine. Instead, I use the Singtel app to manage my Ready Roam plan seamlessly.

If your provider lacks options, buy a SIM card in Cambodia to stay connected. It’s handy for navigation, checking Siem Reap maps, or booking tuk-tuks, making your journey to explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap smooth and convenient!

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a personal choice, but I prefer to stay safe and covered for any traveling issues. It could be something minor like food poisoning or, hopefully not, something more serious. It’s always better to have peace of mind.

As a frequent traveler, I opted for an annual travel insurance plan, so I don’t have to worry about arranging it for each trip. Check the options available in your country to find the best coverage for your needs and enjoy your travels stress-free.

Choosing Your Accommodation

Siem Reap offers a wide range of lovely hotels to suit every budget and travel style. During my visit, I chose to stay in two different hotels to experience both sides of the city. One was in the countryside, perfect for being close to nature.

The other hotel was in the city center, surrounded by restaurants, bars, and the bustling atmosphere of Siem Reap. Both experiences were great, and I’ll share my thoughts on these accommodations to help you plan your stay.

Mane Family Vacation

I stayed at Mane Family Vacation, a peaceful resort with a private pool villa surrounded by lush greenery. Free bicycles made exploring the serene grounds easy.

The service was exceptional, with a personal butler assisting us throughout our stay. Breakfast in the villa was a highlight, featuring fresh local fruits and delicious options. The resort also offers a restaurant and a small spa.

Viroths Hotel

I stayed at Viroths Hotel after reading great reviews, including its #1 Top Hotel in the World award by TripAdvisor in 2020. Its elegance, comfort, and attention to detail exceeded my expectations.

Located in central Siem Reap, it offers easy access to Angkor Wat, markets, and cultural sites. I loved the vintage-inspired rooms, the long pool and the best healthy breakfast I’ve ever had!

Arrange an Airport Pick-Up

Knowing someone is waiting to take you to your hotel is priceless after a long flight! Many hotels in Siem Reap offer pick-up services, but if you want to travel in style, nothing beats Viroths Hotel.

For an extra fee, they’ll pick you up in one of their impeccably maintained classic cars. I loved the experience—it felt like stepping back in time! The commuting time was short but a great and fun experience.

Explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap: 3-Day Travel Itinerary

After all those preparations, it’s time to map out your Siem Reap adventure!
This itinerary will take you to the breathtaking Angkor Thom, home to some of the most remarkable temples like Bayon and Ta Prohm.

Evenings will be reserved for drinks, food, and entertainment, giving you a perfect balance of history, culture, and leisure.

Day 1 Morning: Arrival and First Exploration

After arriving and checking in at your hotel, take a moment to relax and adjust to Siem Reap’s tropical weather. Enjoy a refreshing drink or, if you arrive early you can even have breakfast.

Head straight to the Angkor temples or visit the Angkor National Museum for insights into Khmer history and culture.

How to get to Angkor Wat

If you hire a guide, they’ll pick you up directly from your hotel, so you can start exploring without worrying about transportation or planning your route. Guides handle the logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience.

For a self-planned itinerary, ask your hotel to arrange a reliable tuk-tuk service to take you to the Angkor Wat temple complex.

What to See in Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is steeped in history, and having some background knowledge will greatly enhance your visit. I recommend bringing a book or guide with insights about the temple’s history.

While some ruins have small explanation boards, most do not, leaving much of the story untold. A guidebook will help you understand the intricate carvings, hidden symbolism, and architectural wonders.

Highlights of Angkor Wat’s Ruins

• The bas-reliefs along the outer walls are among the most famous features of Angkor Wat. Intricate carvings depict scenes from the Churning of the Ocean of Milk.
  
  
• The central tower (Bakan) is a must-see, offering stunning views of the temple grounds and surrounding jungle.

• Don’t miss the reflection pools near the entrance, whith the iconic view of Angkor Wat’s towers, especially at sunrise.
  
  
• The galleries, with their intricate carvings and columns, provide a beautiful space to appreciate Khmer architecture.

Refuel After Exploring the Temples

Time for lunch! We hopped into a tuk-tuk back to our hotel, and to my surprise, our driver was from Ecuador, It was fun to chat in Spanish.

Talking with him about his life as a tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap made the ride pleasant. Tuk-tuk drivers often know the best local spots, so don’t hesitate to ask for meal recommendations.

Relaxing at the Pool at Your Hotel

After a morning exploring the Angkor Wat temples, we returned to our hotel for lunch and some much-needed relaxation by the pool. The hot weather in Siem Reap can be exhausting.

Whether visiting more Angkor temples or enjoying evening activities, a midday retreat ensures you’re ready for the afternoon exploration.

Afternoon: Visit Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm, part of the Angkor Wat complex in Siem Reap, is famously known as the Angkor Wat Tomb Raider temple.” Its giant tree roots intertwined with ancient ruins create a mystical, photogenic experience.

Known as the Angkor Wat Tomb Raider temple, Ta Prohm offers a unique blend of nature and history. Its giant trees intertwined with ancient ruins were featured in the iconic movie.

Highlights of Ta Prohm Ruins

• Tree Roots and Temple Fusion: The iconic feature of Ta Prohm is its massive tree roots growing over and through the ancient stone walls.
  
  
• Ta Prohm’s fusion of giant tree roots and ancient ruins gained global fame as the backdrop for the Tomb Raider movie.
  

• Central Sanctuary: The heart of Ta Prohm features intricate carvings and a crumbling central tower.
  
  
• Serene Pathways: Shaded paths and partially hidden doorways.
  
  
• Apsara Carvings: Beautifully detailed carvings of apsaras (celestial dancers).

Evening: Visit Phare Circus

After enjoying dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant, I recommend visiting the Phare Circus. Run by talented local artists.

Arrive early to enjoy a drink at the outdoor tables in the cool evening breeze before the show. Tickets start at $18—buy them in advance at Phare Circus.

Sit near the fans for a more comfortable experience, as the tent can get warm!

Day 2 Morning: Visit Bayon Temple

I hope you had a great rest at your Siem Reap hotel and are ready to continue exploring the incredible Angkor Wat complex!

After a hearty breakfast, take a tuk-tuk to the iconic Bayon Temple, known for its mesmerizing stone faces.

While getting to Bayon Temple, located in the heart of Angkor Thom, enjoy the ride passing through beautiful nature.

Highlights of Bayon Temple

• The smiling stone faces of Bayon Temple show the greatness of Angkor Thom, the old capital of the Khmer Empire.
  
  
• The Central Sanctuary, the heart of the temple, has detailed carvings showing battles and daily life in the Khmer Empire.

• The Bas-Reliefs on the walls show Khmer history, battles, and daily life in amazing detail.
  
  
• Bayon’s maze-like design, with narrow halls and steep stairs, makes exploring feel like an adventure.

Lunch break: Savoring French-Cambodian Flavors

For lunch, our choice was Cuisine Wat Damnak. We enjoyed it serene ambiance, attentive service, and a menu with vegan and vegetarian options.

French influence on Cambodian cuisine, rooted in their 90-year presence during French Indochina.

Relax at Your Hotel

After a morning at the temples, unwind at your hotel with a refreshing pool swim. Lounge by the pool while sharing your experiences and photos with loved ones.

Resting during the hottest hours is key when exploring Angkor Wat. You can even enjoy a siesta to recharge and prepare for more Siem Reap adventures in the afternoon.

Visit the Floating Villages on Tonlé Sap Lake

This afternoon, take a break from the temples and explore the floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake. You can arrange the trip with your guide or through your hotel, though booking through your hotel may be slightly more expensive.

The best way to get there is by car. In the afternoon, you can enjoy sunsets over the lake and see the vibrant local life on the water.

Highlights of the Floating Villages on Tonlé Sap Lake

• Stilted houses show how locals adapt as rising waters in the rainy season shift life onto the lake.
  
  
• Take a boat tour to see locals paddling between homes and kids playing on wooden platforms.
  
  
• Tonlé Sap Lake is home to floating schools, so children in remote villages can still go to school, even while living on the water.

Evening: Unwind in Style at Miss Wong Cocktail Bar

I ended my day at Miss Wong Cocktail Bar, and it was the perfect spot to relax after a full day of exploring Siem Reap.

I especially loved their Khmer-inspired drinks, which added a unique local touch to the evening. It was a wonderfully relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding in a chic and intimate setting.

Day 3: Explore Phnom Kulen National Park

If you have time before an afternoon flight, visit Phnom Kulen National Park, about 50 km from Siem Reap. The scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive offers a peaceful escape.

Love nature? Check out our guide to the best hiking itineraries in Asia

Famous for its waterfalls, lush greenery, and the River of a Thousand Lingas, this destination offers an opportunity to connect with nature before heading to the airport.

Visit the Markets

If you don’t have enough time or don’t feel like going hiking, take a stroll through the lively markets of Siem Reap. They’re perfect for picking up souvenirs. Bargaining is common, so be ready to haggle for a good deal!

Carry cash, preferably in small denominations of Riel or US dollars, as most vendors don’t accept cards.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the chance to explore Angkor Wat in Siem Reap twice. My second visit, right after Covid, was unforgettable—I had the temples almost entirely to myself, a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

I loved visting the temples, surrounded by lush parks and forests. Add to that the delicious food, and the warm hospitality of the locals, and you have all the ingredients for an extraordinary vacation in Siem Reap.

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Explore More on My Blog

I am currently living in Singapore and I’ve created several travel guides, hikes and city walks.

If you are traveling in Asia, take a look at my articles on hiking in Hong Kong and Taiwan. For Europe I recommend my extensive guide for exploring the canals of Amsterdam. Also check my comprehensive city guides in Lima, Peru.