The first word that comes to mind when I think about our trip to Cambodia is HOT. But, once I get past remembering the sweat, I think of magnificent ancient temples that make even the intense heat worth it. Siem Reap is a small city, but is full of history and ancient ruins.

Day 1

ALL DAY Take the inner or outer loop tour to visit the stunning temples. You’ll see Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm to name a few. This is a magical day. Here are my tips for visiting with kids.

Day 2

AM Take a tuk-tuk about an hour north to visit the Banteay Srei temple adorned with intricate stone carvings.

PM Head to Phnom Kulen National Park and enjoy the beauty of the mountains, waterfalls and nature. Make sure to check under Kbal Spean for a row of Shivas.

Day 3

AM Have a relaxing morning after 2 full days of exploring. Then, take a guided tour of the War Museum to get an insight to the fight against the Khmer regime and to see tanks, planes, guns, land mines and more – kids will love it.

PM Head to Artisans d’Angkor for a free tour of the workshop and learn about the makings of their handicrafts. Then head to the Made in Cambodia market or the Psah Chas market to explore more Cambodian handicrafts and grab a snack. You may also enjoy getting a very budget friendly massage.

Something doesn’t interest you, or have more time? Here are some more ideas

Add on Activities in Siem Reap

–Visit the Angkor National museum to get a deeper understanding of the history of Angkor Wat

-Tour the Lotus Farm to learn about the process in making the rare fabric made by lotus flowers

-Learn how to cook local cuisine with a cooking class led by a local chef

-Take a day trip to one of the floating villages, Kompong Phluk and Tonle Sap Lake are the most popular

-Try your hand at Angkor Putt Putt and golf through mini Cambodian temples

-Take a Cambodian pottery making class and get a souvenir to bring home

-Learn the classic Cambodian Apsara dance taught by a local master

-Make your own bracelet at a copper metal bracelet making workshop

-Spend the evening walking the touristy Pub Street for loud music and drinks

-Go to see a traditional Apsara dance show

-Go thrift shopping after hours at one of the night markets

-Enjoy the Snap! 150 Years of Photography in Cambodia at Bambu Stage for a walk through Cambodian life

-See an acrobatic performance at the Phare Circus

-Zip over the jungle on a zipline ride

-And of course, you can always spend more time visiting the temples too 🙂