3 Amazing Days of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap Cambodia

Krong Siem Reap, the city known for the largest and one of the most beautiful temples in the world – Angkor Wat, is much more than just that. Its a vibrant city that hosts loads of activities and wonders.

Our plan this cycle was to go to South of Thailand and explore Laos afterwards, but after speaking with several people and doing some extensive research, we decided to shorten our time in the South of Thailand. It was way to crowded and expensive in high season there and we headed for Siem Reap Cambodia, and boy what a good decision that was.

We have stayed in Siem Reap for 2 weeks and have explored it extensively. I will share here our complete guide on how to best spend a 3 day trip in this beautiful city, with lots of tips if you want to stay around a bit longer.

As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission for purchases on the links provided at no extra cost to you – disclaimer. All the tours and services I recommend are carefully selected and I use them myself throughout the travels.

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap

We spent two weeks in Siem Reap, and honestly, it completely exceeded our expectations. Like most people, we came for Angkor Wat, but we quickly realised this city has so much more to offer. From incredible adventure activities like wakeboarding, biking through the countryside, ATV rides at sunset, and even zip-lining through the treetops, Siem Reap is an experience in itself, not just a stop for temples.

The energy of the city is infectious. One moment, you’re watching the sunrise over ancient ruins, and the next, you’re wandering through bustling night markets, sipping fresh coconut water or a mango shake, and soaking in the sounds of traditional Apsara dance performances.

The food? Just great. From flavourful Khmer dishes like fish amok, noodle soups & saté to street food stalls serving up crispy spring rolls and banana pancakes, every meal is an adventure.

Whether you’re here to explore history, chase adrenaline, or simply experience the magic of Cambodia, Siem Reap will surprise you in the best way possible and it has to us for sure. And the best thing is: Its Cheap!

An Ideal 3 Day Siem Reap Itinerary

Below in this blog i will tell you all about how to get around in Siem Reap, how to best travel to this incredible city and some history about Angkor Wat and the Khmer Empire. But lets start with the most important thing, an ideal 3 day itinerary in Siem Reap i have created after spending 2 weeks in Siem Reap and exploring many sites, and done even more activities.

Here’s your perfect 3-day Siem Reap itinerary, packed with top activities, must-visit restaurants, and easy ways to explore the city and its stunning temple complexes. I’ve included a 2-day Angkor Wat guided tour for a hassle-free experience while leaving room for relaxation, adventure, and great food.

Day 1: Angkor Wat Sunrise & Iconic Temples (Small Tour)

(4:30 AM – 1:00 PM, guided tour)

• 4:30 AM – Early pickup from your hotel.
• 5:00 AM – Sunrise at Angkor Wat – Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate this majestic temple.
• 6:30 AM – Explore Angkor Wat in-depth, learning about its history and architecture.
• 8:00 AM – Breakfast break, there are lots of small stands near Angkor Wat at the main entry and the main premises.
• 9:00 AM – Visit Ta Prohm, the famous “Tomb Raider” temple with massive tree roots.
• 10:00 AM – Explore Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple, known for its giant stone-carved faces.
• 11:00 AM – Visit lesser-known gems like Banteay Kdei and Ta Keo (a mountain temple).
• 12:30 PM – Final stop at the South Gate of Angkor Thom, lined with statues of gods and demons.
• 1:00 PM – Return to your hotel to rest.

Afternoon Relaxation & Evening Fun:

• 2:00 PM – Lunch at Ojas Vegetarian Restaurant They offer healthy Khmer dishes, wraps, great salads & smoothie bowls, our favourite in the area by far, with 2 amazing owners!
• 3:30 PM – Have a massage or spa at Kaya Spa or Lemongrass Garden Spa or at one of the many masseuse shops in the center of Siem Reap. A Basic massage for an hour starts at $6.
• 5:30 PM – Visit Siem Reap Night Market for souvenirs and snacks.Don’t forget to shop for some incredible paintings of Cambodia which include the true iconic Cambodian landmarks
  We have been looking a lot and found 2 incredible paintings which we took home with us.
• 7:00 PM – Dinner at Marum, a social enterprise restaurant with amazing Cambodian fusion cuisine and also a very nice ambiance.
• 8:30 PM – Explore Pub Street for a drink and possible live music. Try the crocodile meat, a local delicacy. Its pretty good if your up for it, i tasted it at The Station B Pub Street, which serves great food and comfortable seating.

Day 2: Hidden Angkor & Sunset (Big Tour)

(10:30 AM – 7:00 PM, guided tour)

Morning Free Time:

• 7:30 AM – Breakfast at Sister Srey Café (great coffee & healthy options).
• 8:30 AM – Yoga or Muay Thai Class at Ground Zero or Aum Yoga Center
• 10:00 AM – Return to hotel to freshen up.

10:30 AM – 7:00 PM: Big Tour of Angkor (guided tour)

• 10:30 AM – Pickup from your hotel.
• 11:00 AM – Visit Preah Khan, a grand temple dedicated to the king’s father.
• 12:30 PM – Explore Neak Pean, a mystical water temple used for healing in ancient times.
• 1:30 PM – Lunch break (ask your guide for a good spot or bring snacks).
• 2:30 PM – Visit Ta Som, featuring a massive tree growing over its entrance.
• 3:30 PM – Explore East Mebon, once surrounded by a reservoir.
• 4:30 PM – Admire Pre Rup, known for its stunning brick architecture.
• 5:30 PM – Climb Phnom Bakheng for a breathtaking sunset view over Angkor.
• 7:00 PM – Return to your hotel.

Evening Options:

• 8:00 PM – Dinner at Heybong Plantbased (incredible healthy & fusion Khmer food).
• 9:30 PM –Have cocktails at Miss Wong Cocktail bar.

Day 3: Adventure & Final Explorations (Explore at your own pace via private tuk-tuk)

Option 1: Leisure & Culture

• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Vibe Café (organic, plant-based dishes).
• 9:30 AM – Visit Artisans Angkor (local handicrafts & silk weaving).
• 11:00 AM – Explore the Siem Reap War Museum or Cambodia Landmine Museum.
• 12:30 PM – Lunch at HAVEN (a social enterprise restaurant).
• 2:30 PM – Floating Village Tour at Kampong Phluk (half-day trip to see stilt houses & mangroves). Also visit the crocodile sanctuary and watch the sunset over the water.
• 6:00 PM – Final Dinner at Malis (high-end Khmer cuisine).

Option 2: Adventure & Action-Packed Day

• 8:00 AM – Breakfast at Blue Pumpkin.
• 9:30 AM – Wakeboarding at Aqua Khmer or quad biking through the countryside.
• 12:30 PM – Lunch at Footprint Café.
• 2:00 PM – Relax at a Spa or take another Martial Arts/Yoga session.
• 5:00 PM – Sunset at West Baray (a huge ancient reservoir).
• 7:00 PM – Final Dinner at Embassy (one of Siem Reap’s best fine dining spots).

This 3-day itinerary balances history, adventure, wellness, and great food while making full use of your 2-day guided Angkor tour so you won’t miss any of the incredible temples Angkor Wat has to offer.

If you have any questions, please drop a comment in the comment section at the bottom of this blog. Happy to help!

How to get around in Siem Reap

Getting around Siem Reap is easy, affordable, and part of the adventure. Whether you’re exploring the Angkor temples, heading to Pub Street, or venturing into the countryside, there’s a transport option to match your style and budget.

We always rent a scooter, as it gives us soo much freedom, and I can confidently say that i am a pretty experienced driver after all the traveling through Asia. And you need to be if you want to drive in Siem Reap, cause its pure chaos, especially in the evenings!

Tuk-Tuks: The Most Popular Option

Tuk-tuks are everywhere in Siem Reap and are the easiest way to get around. A short ride within the city costs around $1, while a day trip to the Angkor temples typically cost around $18.

Most drivers offer full-day hire and can even double as informal guides. Just be sure to agree on a price before starting your ride! Often you can arrange one at your hotel for the day, the driver will then take you to 6-7 of the main temples of Angkor Wat.

Bicycles & E-Bikes: The Budget-Friendly Choice

If you love exploring at your own pace, renting a bicycle or e-bike is a great option. Regular bikes cost as little as $2 per day, while e-bikes range from $5–$10 depending on the quality. Lots of more luxurious hotels offer bikes for free. Cycling through the Angkor complex is an incredible experience, but be prepared for the heat! It is as hot as 35 degrees in the afternoon as i am writing this now.

Motorbike Rentals: Best for Experienced Riders

Scooter rentals are available for around $10-$15 per day. Make sure you have your international drivers license in case you get pulled over and for insurance covering, check this if your insurance covers. Also if above 125cc, you need a motorbike license also from your homecountry.

Fines are anywhere between $10 to $40 when stopped by the police, but i have been driving here now for 2 weeks and have not seen a checkpoint or someone being pulled over. Police doesn’t really care by the looks of it, which is good.

Pro tip: I need to ask for caution as the traffic rules here on Cambodia are strange to say the least. To make it simple, there are no rules other than an occasional traffic light. Its every man for itself, which makes it challenging at some points and especially at night when the young kids drive kamikaze and you have traffic coming from each direction. You need to have a good amount of experience to drive around this traffic at night.

Private Car & Van Hire

For a more comfortable experience, hiring a private driver is a great option, especially for long-distance trips or visiting temples outside the main Angkor complex. After we have been asking around, expect to pay around $35 per day.

Flying to Siem Reap Airport, or by Bus?

Arriving in Siem Reap felt like the start of something special. The moment we landed, we knew we were in for an adventure. Whether you’re flying in, taking a bus journey from a neighbouring country, getting here is part of the experience.

Flying into Siem Reap Airport

The fastest and easiest way to reach Siem Reap is by air. Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI), located about 30 miles (1 hour drive) from the city center, welcomes direct flights from big hubs like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City. From the airport, a tuk-tuk ride into town costs around $10–$15, while a private taxi is about $20. Some hotels even offer free pickups, so it’s worth checking in advance.

Overland Travel: Buses & Border Crossings

If you’re coming from Thailand, Vietnam, or Laos, traveling overland is a great option, though it requires some patience. We’ve come from Thailand ourselves with the bus and did the trip during the day with a reputable company.

Important tip: With all that we have been reading, the quality of the road and the amount of accidents happening here, we would only travel by bus during the day and only with Giant Ibis!
The trip was a breath of fresh air, the seats luxurious like flying business class (at least ours were) and we were able to work online during the trip.

✔️ You can book it through this link

• From Bangkok: The most common route. A direct bus from Mo Chit Terminal to Siem Reap takes about 8 hours and costs around $25 for a basic bus, $40 for a VIP bus as described above. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to the Aranyaprathet-Poipet border, cross on foot, and grab a taxi on the Cambodian side, but this will be even more expensive together.
• From Phnom Penh: Buses take around 6–7 hours and cost $15. Some are comfortable, others… not so much, so choose a reputable company and go during the day!!
• From Vietnam or Laos: Less common, but possible. The Ho Chi Minh City–Phnom Penh–Siem Reap route is a long journey (12+ hours), while from Laos, you’ll likely need to break up the trip.

Visa on Arrival & Entry Requirements

Getting into Cambodia is relatively easy. Most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival $30 or apply for an e-Visa in advance ($36). Just make sure your passport has at least six months validity. If crossing by land, border officials might try to charge extra fees. Stay firm, smile, and politely insist on paying the official price, better get it arranged by a local for a few $, as we did at the bus company. Check this blog for more information on Visa Requirements

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

We visited during the dry season, which was perfect for exploring but also meant some serious heat! The second week we had temperatures above 35 degrees, which i don’t really like and recommend. Here’s what you should know:

• Dry Season (November–April): The best time to visit, especially December and January when it’s cooler (but still hot). Expect clear skies, golden sunrises over Angkor Wat, and… crowds.
• Hot Season (March–May): It gets intense, with temperatures soaring over 35°C (95°F). If you can handle the heat, you’ll find fewer tourists.
• Rainy Season (June–October): Surprisingly underrated! While there are daily rain showers, the temples look incredible with beautiful greenery, and prices are lower. Just be prepared for some muddy paths.

Exploring Angkor Wat & The Angkor Archaeological Park

Spending time at Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. There’s something surreal about walking through these ancient ruins, touching the weathered stones, and imagining what life was like during the Khmer Empire’s peak. It’s not just a place, for us it was a journey through history, nature, and culture all at once.

The Iconic Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat isn’t just the symbol of Cambodia, it’s a breathtaking masterpiece that brings admiration the moment you see it. No matter how many photos we had seen beforehand, nothing could truly prepare us for its sheer scale, detailed carvings, and the centuries of history etched into its stones.

Walking through its ancient corridors, surrounded by towering structures and the whispers of the past, we felt a deep sense of wonder. Seeing it in person was an experience that no picture could ever fully capture.

Best Time to Visit

• Sunrise: The most popular time, and for good reason. It’s magical, but expect a crowd unless you arrive super early (4:30–5:00 AM).
• Midday: The least crowded time, but also the hottest. Bring plenty of wate and a hat if you go at this time. I forgot mine and managed to by a fake at one of the shops at Angkor Wat.
• Sunset: While Angkor Wat itself doesn’t have the best sunset view, Phnom Bakheng (a nearby hilltop temple) is a great spot to watch the sky turn golden. And if you come at sunset, make sure to head to the back of Angkor Wat. We did and had some incredible pictures!

Key Features Not to Miss

• The Bas-Reliefs: The intricate carvings along the outer walls tell stories of epic battles and Hindu mythology. We spent ages just staring at the details.
• The Towers: Climbing up the steep steps to the central sanctuary was a highlight with incredible viewpoints. Some of the best spots with sunset we found here.
• Hidden Corners: If you wander off the main paths, you’ll find quiet courtyards and hidden carvings most people walk right past.
• Photo spots: Also check for photographers and where they take the pictures of the paying tourists. We found the best spots like this.

Tickets & Tours

• Angkor Pass Prices:
  • 1-day pass – $37 (great if you’re short on time).
  • 3-day pass – $62 (valid for 10 days, perfect for deeper exploration).
  • 7-day pass – $72 (valid for a month, best for temple lovers).
    
• Guided Tour: these are the most comfortable and common options, as you will get a guide who knows the history and makes the experience much fuller, plus they arrange the transport for you and bring you to the best temples in the area.
  
  In 1 day you get to see the top 3, in a 2 day tour you get to see the top 10 and some hidden temples that are worth exploring and makes the experience less rushed.

• DIY: This can be done when renting a tuktuk or scooter. Make sure you get a booklet with the best tempels in the area, so you won’t miss anything. The top 10 are the most worth visiting as we found out and are highlighted on the map. You can get this map near Angkor Wat at the information desk

My Favourite Hotels and Resorts in Siem Reap

After staying in Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat area

Budget 4⭐ Rating 9.1/10 Home Indochine D’angkor Hotel We loved Home Indochine D’Angkor Hotel. As it was cozy, with the local Khmer-style charm and the genuinely warm staff who made our stay feel like home. The 4 days we spend here were great. Good value for money!

FAQs About Visiting Angkor Wat & Siem Reap

1. Do I need to book Angkor Wat tickets in advance?
No, you can buy the Angkor Pass at the official ticket office near Siem Reap. The office opens at 5 AM, and you can purchase a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day pass. Reminder, the pass is for the entire Archeological Park, so make sure to plan visits to the other temples as well during this day pass.

2. What should I wear to visit Angkor Wat?
Since Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples are religious sites, you must wear modest clothing. This means covering your shoulders. Open knees are ok as far as we have experienced. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best, as it gets very hot during the day and especially during the dry season after January.

3. Can I visit Angkor Wat without a guide?
Yes! You can explore on your own by hiring a tuk-tuk or renting a bicycle. However, a guide can give you a deeper understanding of the history and significance of the temples. Many tuk-tuk drivers also have basic knowledge and can offer useful tips if your into that.

4. How many days do I need to explore Angkor Wat sites?
It depends on your interest level. A 1-day pass is enough for the highlights (Angkor Wat, Bayon, Ta Prohm), but a 3-day pass lets you explore at a more relaxed pace and visit less crowded temples like Banteay Srei and Preah Khan.

5. Is there a best time of year to visit Siem Reap and its temples?
The best time to visit is during the dry season (November–January) when the weather is cooler and less humid. The rainy season (May–October) can be unpredictable but offers lush scenery and fewer tourists. We were here in February and the temperature started to get over 30° (86F) a day with levels reaching 35° (95 Fahrenheit) daily. Well i can say, it became pretty hot!

Wrap Up: Angkor Wat in Siem Reap 3 Day Itinerary

Siem Reap is so much more than Angkor Wat. It’s a place that pulls you in with its history, energy, and charm. After spending two weeks here, I’ve put together this 3-day itinerary to help you experience the best of it, from sunrise at Angkor Wat to hidden temples, delicious Khmer food, and lively night markets.

With the right mix of adventure and downtime, this itinerary makes sure you leave Siem Reap with amazing memories and a real feel for this incredible city. Enjoy every moment!

More pictures will come as soon as I am off this island in Cambodia without Wifi. Takes forever here 😧

Have you ever been to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap?
Any questions or feedback is highly appreciated 💙

Share this post

• Facebook
• Pinterest
• X