Angkor, what?!
Let’s be real - Angkor Wat can be overwhelming. With the tag of world’s largest religious complex at 162.6 hectares, the confusion starts with whether to purchase a 1,3- or 7-day pass? If you love history and archaeology, and are prepared to spend the time, have a good amount of time in hand, I suggest you go for a 3-day pass and explore the complex at your own pace.
The Angkor Archaeological Park is vast, yes, but it’s also thoughtfully laid out with shaded pathways, rest areas and wide temple grounds making exploration manageable. However, remember these are centuries old, and have uneven floors - so you may have to skip a few areas that require climbing steep steps for views.
Beyond Angkor Wat
Set aside at least half a day to explore the sprawling complex of Angkor Thom, with various temples like the Bayon (a must-visit, with its towering stone faces, including the serene, semis-smiling Buddha that I call the Monalisa of Angkor) Preah Palilay, Phimeanakas and Baphuon (plus a bunch of royal palace ruins too).
Then there is the Ta Prohm temple, remarkable for the massive trees that have spread out their roots and reclaimed this land as theirs. My personal favourite is located just outside town - the small, delicate Bantaey Srei in pink sandstone, said to be built by a woman.
The other outstanding temple lies more than an hour away, in the countryside – the Prasat Beng Mealea, a jungle-covered temple that feels truly untouched. Largely left in a collapsed state, the ruins are wrapped in vines and trees, giving the site a quiet, atmospheric charm, a striking contrast to the restored temples within Angkor Wat.
Tip: Hire a knowledgeable guide and travel between the temples by cab or tuk-tuk to reduce walking. Comfortable shoes and a light scarf/cap are a must.
Art and culture
Beyond the ageless temples, Siem Reap offers a deep dive into history, art and traditions of the Khmer empire. Explore the Angkor National Museum which is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of Angkor artifacts. For a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s traditions, the Cambodian Cultural Village is an easy and engaging stop.
One more place that should also be on your itinerary is the Old Market (Psar Chas), a lively market, filled with local handicrafts, textiles, spices and souvenirs. For a more intimate shopping experience, you can visit the Artisans D´Angkor workshop to see how local handicrafts are made, and perhaps pick up a souvenir to take back home.
A day on the water: Tonlé Sap
Boat tours around the Tonlé Sap floating villages (either Kompong Kleang or Kompong Phluk depending on water levels) offer a close and fascinating glimpse into life on the water — homes on stilts, floating schools and markets adapting to seasonal changes. The ride itself is slow and peaceful, making it a perfect slow travel day after walking through Angkor Wat complex.
Tip: Choose a locally run non-profit organisation like Community First: Kompong Khleang Floating Village Tours which offers tours guided by locals and directs its income to outreach initiatives for the villagers.
Food that is full of flavour
Cambodian cuisine is often overlooked, but it’s wonderfully fresh and flavourful, absorbing influences from its neighbours like Thailand and Vietnam. Dishes like fish amok, lok lak (stir-fried beef) and fragrant soups are widely available, and restaurants are happy to adjust spice levels to suit your palate.
The best way to end a long day of temple hopping is to kick back with a cool, refreshing drink at Pub Street. Despite its name, this lively lane has cafes and restaurants serving everything from Khmer classics to international comfort food. The Red Piano, The Banana Leaf and Le Tigre de Papier are some of the highest rated cafes here.
If you want the best of local foods, sign up for a guided food walk like this one - Siem Reap Food Tours.
Tip: If you despise crowds and loud music, visit Pub Street before 8 pm for a calmer, more relaxed experience.
It’s show time!
Catch a show at the Apsara Theatre, the venue that has played an important role in preserving the country’s cultural heritage, keeping alive the traditions of classical Khmer dance for three decades. Combine it with a traditional dinner before the performance for even more complete Khmer experience.
Personal tip: I would strongly urge you to book a performance at the Phare Circus, a Cambodian company that trains young men and women from local communities in dance, music and acrobatic skills, to help them make a living from traditional Cambodian arts. It’s a ‘circus with a purpose’ but beyond supporting a good cause, you can also be sure of watching a scintillating show.