Things to Do in Cambodia Siem Reap: A Perfect 2-Day Itinerary

This Things to Do in Cambodia  Siem Reap  Our 2-day itinerary with a local tour guide Siem Reap ensures you experience the best of Siem Reap attractions, from the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat to the tranquil sunsets at Phnom Bakheng, making your visit both memorable and enriching.

Day 1: Sunrise to Sunset in Angkor’s Heart

Early morning (5:00 AM): Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Start your adventure early by witnessing the sunrise at Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic experiences in Southeast Asia. As the first light of dawn illuminates the temple’s intricate carvings, you’ll understand why this site is a UNESCO World Heritage gem.

Practical Tips: The Best Viewing Spots: Arrive early to secure a prime spot near the reflecting pool, where you can capture the temple’s reflection in the water.

What to Pack: Bring a temple ticket, camera, water, and light snacks. Wear comfortable clothing, as mornings can be chilly, but the temperature rises quickly.

Morning (8:30 AM- 11:00 AM): Exploring Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom

After the sunrise, take time to explore Angkor Wat and nearby Angkor Thom. Angkor Wat, with its detailed bas-reliefs and towering spires, is a testament to the grandeur of the Khmer Empire. Just a short ride away, Angkor Thom awaits with the enigmatic faces of the Bayon Temple and the historical Terrace of the Elephants.

Highlights:

• Angkor Wat: Delve into the temple’s rich history and marvel at the craftsmanship of its carvings.
• Angkor Thom: Visit the Bayon Temple, famous for its 200 smiling faces, and walk along the Terrace of the Elephants.
• Practical Tips: Avoiding Crowds: To avoid the morning rush, follow a counterclockwise route, starting from the outer galleries.
• Dress Code: Please dress respectfully; cover your shoulders and knees any time you go to the temple

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:30 PM): Local Cuisine Experience

Refuel with a traditional Khmer meal at a local restaurant near the temples. Cambodian cuisine is rich in flavors, with dishes like Amok, a coconut milk curry, and Lok Lak, a stir-fried beef dish, being must-tries.

Practical Tips:Where to eat: For authentic local dishes, try Palmboo restaurant or Kolab.

Dietary Options: vegetarian and vegan options are widely available; just ask the staff for recommendations.

Afternoon (2:00 PM–3:30 PM): Visit Ta Prohm Temple

In the afternoon, head to Ta Prohm, famously known as the “Tomb Raider.” You will be able to capture stunning pictures with no crowded tourists.

Highlights:

Photography Tips: Capture the dramatic contrast between the man-made structures and the encroaching jungle. Early afternoon provides excellent lighting for photos.

• Hidden Gems: Explore some of the less-visited corners of the temple for a more solitary experience.
• Avoiding Crowds: Visit in the early afternoon when many tourists are taking a break.
• Stay Hydrated: The temple complex is vast, so carry plenty of water. Taxi driver Siem Reap typically prepares it well, and if you’re satisfied with your tour, feel free to tip him $10.

Late afternoon (5:00 PM–6:30 PM): Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

End your day with a sunset view from Phnom Bakheng, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the Angkor region. The climb is gentle, and the reward—a serene sunset over the vast jungle—is worth every step.

• Practical Tips: Best Time to Start: Begin your hike around 4:30 PM to secure a suitable spot and avoid the rush.
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes and a light jacket for when the temperature drops after sunset.
• What to bring : Temple tickets

Day 2: Culture, Cuisine, and Relaxation in Siem Reap

Early morning (8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m.): Visit a Local Market

Kickstart your second day with a visit to one of Siem Reap’s bustling markets. The Old Market (Psar Chaa) and Made in Cambodia Market are perfect places to soak in local culture, shop for unique souvenirs, and sample local snacks.

Highlights:

• Souvenirs: Look for traditional handicrafts at Sacha reliable quality shop, textiles, and spices.
• Practical Tips:Don’t be afraid to haggle; most markets expect it.
• Authenticity: Choose items from stalls that support local artisans.
• Cooking Class: At Chreav Village

Morning (10:00 AM- 12:00 PM): Cultural Experience at Artisans Angkor

Next, immerse yourself in Khmer arts and crafts at Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise that helps preserve traditional skills like silk weaving and stone carving. Take a guided tour to see artisans at work and learn about the importance of these crafts to Cambodian culture.

Highlights:

• Workshops: Attend a workshop to try your hand at crafting.
• Souvenir Shopping: Support local artisans by purchasing high-quality crafts directly from the source.
• Tour Timing: Tours are available throughout the day, but morning sessions are less crowded.
• Supporting the Community: Buying directly from Artisans Angkor ensures fair wages for the artisans.

Lunch Break (12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.): Lunch at a Local restaurant 

For lunch, head to one of the Neary Khmer restaurants for clean and good service. Enjoy a leisurely meal in the air-conditioned VIP room.

Suggestions:

• Cuisine: Try dishes like Fish Amok Pizza or mango salad with a twist.
• Views: Cafés like The River Garden offer a tranquil setting with beautiful garden views.
• Reservation: Make a reservation, especially during peak tourist season, and just let your tour guide know, and he will arrange safety for you.
• Dietary Preferences: Most cafés offer a range of dishes to suit different dietary needs.

Afternoon (2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.): Relaxation at a Local Spa

After lunch, indulge in a traditional Khmer massage at one of Siem Reap’s renowned spas. A relaxing massage will rejuvenate you after a day of temple hopping and market exploring.

Suggestions:

• Treatments: Consider a full-body massage or a soothing foot massage after a day of walking.Book in advance to ensure availability, especially for afternoon slots.
• Tipping: Although it’s not required, customers appreciate a small tip for exceptional service.

Late afternoon (4:30 PM–6:00 PM): Visit to Siem Reap’s Floating Villages

In the late afternoon, take a boat tour to explore the floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake, such as Kampong Phluk. These unique communities live on the water, with houses built on stilts, offering a glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Highlights:

• Boat Tour: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the village, observing daily life on the water.
• Interaction: Engage with locals to learn more about their traditions and way of life.
• Best Time to Visit: The late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and beautiful light for photography.
• What to Bring: Pack a hat, sunscreen, and a decent camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

Evening (7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.): Dinner and Apsara Dance Show

Conclude your Siem Reap experience with a traditional Cambodian dinner accompanied by an Apsara dance performance. This classical dance, rooted in Hindu mythology, is a beautiful representation of Cambodian culture and history.

Highlights:

• Cultural Significance: The Apsara dance tells stories of gods and warriors through elegant, precise movements.
• Dining: Enjoy a delicious Cambodian meal featuring dishes like grilled fish, curries, and rice-based desserts.
• Best Venues: Consider restaurants like Apsara Terrace or Por Cuisine, which offer a combination of fine dining and live performances.
• Booking Tips: Make reservations in advance to secure good seats for the show. Inform your tour guide in advance so he can make arrangements for you. If you book independently, the price will remain the same. I highly recommend Amazon restaurants for their competitive prices.

Conclusion

With this carefully curated Things to Do in Cambodia, Siem Reap, for a 2-day itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Siem Reap—from its awe-inspiring temples to its rich cultural traditions and serene landscapes. Whether you’re catching the first light at Angkor Wat or savoring the flavors of Khmer cuisine, these two days will leave you with lasting memories of Cambodia’s enchanting city. Remember to pack light, stay hydrated, and immerse yourself fully in the beauty and history of Siem Reap.