Ta Prohm Temple. — 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 2 days to spare in Siem Reap. Two days in Siem Reap is the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself in a full day of exploring temples, adventure through a local floating village, and still have time left to wander through the downtown streets. Continue reading to discover the most epic 2 day itinerary in Siem Reap, giving you the opportunity to see it all in a short amount of time.

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

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An Epic 2 Day Siem Reap Itinerary

Day 1: Float Along Kampong Phluk!

Envision stilted, colorful houses perched high above a river, utilized for fishing and transportation by the villagers. This floating village tour of Kampong Phluk is a must-do during your time in Siem Reap. I visited during the wet season (December/January), starting my tour by boat down the river, gaining a front-row glimpse into the locals' daily life. Afterward, we strolled along some of the roads in the fishing village, helping younger children practice their English, chatting with locals, and purchasing local goods to support the community.

Later in the day, we enjoyed the sunset by boat and purchased coconuts, water, and snacks from the local shops floating by. Most tours cost around $12-$20 USD and include transportation to and from your hotel.

Click here for the one I did!

Since this will likely be the first full day of your 2 days in Siem Reap, or perhaps you arrive the same morning, it is best to start with this tour as it begins later in the day (1:30-2:30 P.M.). This allows plenty of time to sleep in, relax, or grab a coffee before heading out to start your Siem Reap adventures. You can even explore central Siem Reap, peeking into the Cambodia War Museum and Wat Preah Prom Rath before your tour begins.

Sunset-Floating-Village-2-Days-in-Siem-Reap

Post Tour: shop at the night market & head over to pub street.

If you’re still feeling energized after visiting Kampong Phluk, head out to the Night Market or Pub Street to grab some food! If not, you can, of course, rest up in preparation for the long day at Angkor Wat tomorrow.

For my energized travelers, a trip to Southeast Asia would not be complete without heading to a night market. There are quite a few night markets in Siem Reap, but if you only have 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. This 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. Venturing through the markets and streets during your 2 days in Siem Reap offers a small glimpse into the local and expat life of the city.

Day 2: Discover the Wonders of Angkor Wat!

A 2 day Siem Reap itinerary would not be complete without a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site: Angkor Wat. With millions of tours available, it may seem overwhelming to choose the right one, especially with just one 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 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. For my party people who were out late last night on Pub Street, opting for the sunset tour is also an option. 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.

A full day in Angkor Wat can be truly exhausting! I remember I was falling asleep on the van ride back to my accommodation. If you are spending the night in Siem Reap, I recommend heading out for some yummy local dinner. Head here for some recommendations on where to eat. For those who are venturing out of Siem Reap that night, I recommend heading over to Common Grounds for some coffee! They are open until 8:30 P.M.

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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.