Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom — Welcome to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the country's second-largest city and home to the astounding UNESCO World Heritage Site: Angkor Wat. I highly recommend adding this incredible city to your itinerary, even if you only have 1 day to spare in Siem Reap. One day in Siem Reap is still enough time to immerse yourself in a full day of exploring temples, adventuring through the history of Siem Reap, and wandering through the lively streets at night. Continue reading to discover the best 1 day itinerary in Siem Reap, allowing you to see it all in a short amount of time. This will truly be a day to remember, so let’s jump right into it!

*Find more information on Siem Reap with this* ***Travel Guide.***

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1 Day In Siem Reap Itinerary

Spend the day Discovering the Wonders of Angkor Wat!

The best way to spend your 1 day in Siem Reap is by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site: Angkor Wat. With millions of tours available, it may seem overwhelming to choose the right one, especially with just 1 day to explore. I recommend selecting a tour that includes Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm (the Tomb Raider tomb), and my absolute favorite: Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom.

Most tours cost around $15-$20 USD and include transportation. If they are this inexpensive, they usually do not include the entrance fee to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. A one-day pass is $37 USD. Remember to dress modestly since you'll be visiting sacred sites—this includes covering shoulders, knees, and midsections.

If you are an early riser, you can select to go for the sunrise tour. However, if you got into Siem Reap late last night or early this morning, opting for the sunset tour is also an option. The sunrise tour begins around 4:00 or 4:30 A.M., returning to accommodations between 2:00 and 3:00 P.M. The sunset tour usually starts around 9:00 or 10:00 A.M., returning to accommodations after 6:30 or 7:30 P.M. If you are not sure which tour you would prefer yet, click the highlighted pink text below for some tips and experiences that might help you decide.

Find key information for planning your trip to Angkor Wat here.

Post Tour: Coffee & Food

For those who chose the sunrise tour, you may be exhausted from your early rise and choose to take a short nap. Whether you choose to nap or power through, heading to Common Grounds for some coffee is a great option for that extra boost of energy!

Once caffeinated and re-energized, you can opt to explore some of Siem Reap’s history at the Cambodia War Museum and Wat Preah Prom Rath. Both are centrally located in Siem Reap.

Visitors to the Cambodia War Museum can learn about the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge era and the ongoing efforts to clear landmines and support victims of landmine accidents. The museum serves as a powerful reminder of the country's tragic past. The fee to explore this museum is around $5 USD.

Wat Preah Prom Rath is a local Buddhist temple that features a colorful display of Khmer-style architecture, including a temple, pagodas, and historical displays of the Khmer Regime. There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcome. As always, dress modestly when visiting temples and other spiritual sites.

For those who chose the sunset tour, I can remember how truly exhausting the day was, especially in the peak heat of Cambodia. I even found myself falling asleep on the van ride back to my accommodation! Napping on the ride back can be a great option for a quick power recharge, or grabbing a coffee can help too. I recommend checking out one of the local cafes such as Common Grounds.

No matter which tour you choose, I recommend heading out for some yummy local dinner. Head here for some recommendations on where to eat.

The last Hoo-rah: SHOP AT THE NIGHT MARKET & HEAD OVER TO PUB STREET.

If you are spending the night in Siem Reap, and want to keep exploring, head out to the Night Market or Pub Street to explore!

A trip to Southeast Asia would not be complete without heading to a night market. There are quite a few night markets in the city, but with only 1 day in Siem Reap and time for one, I suggest heading to ANM Khmer Market, also known as The Made in Cambodia Market. The market operates from 5:00 in the evening until late and is packed with traditional souvenirs, clothing, food, and more. Once you have had your fill of shopping, head over to the lively and popular, Pub street. The street is lined with numerous bars, restaurants, and some smaller clubs lining its sidewalks. Even if you do not drink (like me), it is still fun to walk down at night with the bright signs lighting the streets, the music, and the lively atmosphere.

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General Information on Siem Reap:

Where to Stay:

Siem Reap is small and easily walkable. I suggest staying near Pub Street, the Old French Quarter, Old Market, or Wat Bo Road.
- Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
  - Best Backpacker/Hostel Option: The Twizt - Lifestyle Hostel & Hotel - I stayed here!
  - Best Low-Budget: Boutique Indochine d'Angkor or The Urban
  - Best Mid-Budget: Royal Crown Hotel & Spa or Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
  - Best Luxury: Viroth's Hotel or Golden Temple Residence

Best Time to Visit:

November - February (not as hot in these months)

How to Get to Siem Reap:

FLYING

You can fly directly to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). The airport is located about 50 km from the downtown area. You can book ahead to find cheaper transport options (around $7-$10 USD).

Pro Tip: If you arrive later after 9:00 P.M., finding a ride to the downtown area of Siem Reap can be challenging. If you are unable to book ahead, I recommend finding someone from your flight who is also traveling downtown and asking if they want to split the fare (usually around $35).

BUS / SHARED MINIVAN

You can also book one of these options depending on where you are coming from (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos). This is a longer form of travel but can be great for those on a backpacker budget. For more information, I recommend searching online based on your origin. 12GoAsia is always great for finding specific companies, or you can check with your accommodation.

How to Get Around:

Most of Siem Reap, aside from day tours, is easily walkable. For day trips and farther destinations, I recommend joining one of the many inexpensive guided tours to Angkor Wat and Kampong Phluk Floating Village. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available.