Siem Reap, Cambodia-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Siem Reap Itinerary: Temples, Food & Fun

This itinerary balances the must-see temples with delicious food, local culture, and relaxation.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel (social), The Siem Reap Hostel (clean and quiet)
  • Mid-Range: Borei Angkor Resort & Spa (beautiful pool), Templation (boutique luxury)
  • Luxury: Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor (historical elegance), Amansara (exclusive, serene)

Transportation: Tuk-Tuk is the most common and affordable way to get around. Negotiate a price for the day or per trip. You can also rent bicycles or motorbikes.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) but USD is widely accepted
  • Language: Khmer, but English is spoken in tourist areas
  • Visa: Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival for $30 (check requirements beforehand)
  • Weather: Hot and humid year-round. Rainy season (May - October).

Day 1: Temple Time & Sunset Spectacular

  • Morning: Start with Angkor Wat, the iconic temple complex. Allow at least 3 hours to explore its intricate carvings and vast courtyards.
  • Afternoon: Visit Angkor Thom, home to Bayon Temple with its enigmatic smiling faces, and the Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King.
  • Evening: Witness a breathtaking sunset over Angkor Wat from Phnom Bakheng hill (arrive early for good spot).

Dinner: Khmer Kitchen Restaurant (traditional Khmer dishes)

Day 2: Jungle Temples & Artisan Villages

  • Morning: Explore Ta Prohm, the “Tomb Raider” temple overgrown with jungle vines.
  • Afternoon: Visit Banteay Srei, a smaller but beautifully preserved temple known for its intricate pink sandstone carvings.

Evening: Take a cooking class and learn to make Cambodian delicacies like Amok (fish curry) or Lok Lak (stir-fried beef).

Dinner: Enjoy your freshly cooked meal!

  • Optional Activity: Explore the charming artisan villages of Angkor Chantiers (silk weaving) or Puok (stone carving).

Day 3: Floating Village & Rural Charm

  • Morning: Take a boat trip to Kampong Phluk, a floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. See stilt houses, local life, and wildlife.
  • Afternoon: Relax by the pool at your hotel or enjoy a traditional Khmer massage.
  • Evening: Experience the vibrant night market in Siem Reap, with street food stalls, souvenirs, and live music.

Dinner: Sample delicious street food at the night market (try grilled skewers, spring rolls, or fried noodles).

Day 4: History & Wildlife

  • Morning: Visit the War Museum Cambodia to learn about the country’s recent history and the Khmer Rouge regime.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Phnom Kulen National Park, a sacred mountain with waterfalls, ancient temples, and wildlife.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Siem Reap.

Dinner: The Sky Restaurant (modern Cambodian cuisine)

Day 5: Farewell & Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Siem Reap International Airport (REP).

Tips for Travelers:

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting temples (covering shoulders and knees).
  • Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
  • Bargain politely when shopping at markets.
  • Learn some basic Khmer phrases to connect with locals.

Other Things to Consider:

  • Sunrise tours: Witnessing sunrise over Angkor Wat is an unforgettable experience.
  • Quad biking or horseback riding: Explore the countryside and ancient temples in a unique way.
  • Phare, the Cambodian Circus: Enjoy a spectacular acrobatic performance with social commentary.
  • Angkor National Museum: Learn more about Khmer art and history through captivating exhibits.