48 Hours in Siem Reap: Temples, Culture and Street Food

Cambodia’s cultural capital may be best known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, but there’s so much more to Siem Reap than ancient ruins. With buzzing night markets, flavour-packed street food, and a creative local scene that blends tradition with reinvention, this riverside city is one of Southeast Asia’s most rewarding short breaks.

This 48-hour itinerary is designed to take you beyond the postcard shots — yes, you’ll see the sunrise over Angkor Wat, but you’ll also explore floating villages, wander hidden temple corners, and taste local dishes you’ve never heard of. Whether you’re a history buff, street food fan, or just passing through on your way across Southeast Asia, Siem Reap will leave a lasting impression.

When to Visit

Siem Reap has two main seasons: dry (November to April) and wet (May to October). While the rainy season brings afternoon downpours, it also means lush green temples and far fewer crowds — great for photographers and those craving a slower pace.

For the best overall experience, aim for December to February. These months offer cooler mornings (ideal for sunrise temple visits), blue skies, and more comfortable sightseeing conditions — though they’re also the busiest.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds while still dodging the worst of the heat and rain, March and early November are solid shoulder season options. Just keep in mind: temple hopping in peak midday sun can be intense year-round, so plan accordingly.

Did You Know?

• Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, originally built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple before becoming Buddhist — and it even appears on the Cambodian flag.

• The Angkor Archaeological Park spans over 400 square kilometres, with more than 70 temples accessible to visitors.

• Siem Reap’s name means “Defeat of Siam”, a reference to a centuries-old battle victory over the Thai kingdom of Ayutthaya.

• Tuk-tuk drivers in Siem Reap often double as informal tour guides, offering full-day temple circuits at very reasonable rates — and they know all the shortcuts.

• The city is home to Phare, the Cambodian Circus, a social enterprise that trains disadvantaged youth in performing arts, fusing traditional storytelling with high-energy acrobatics.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap.

Day One: Temples and Culture

Start with sunrise at Angkor Wat

No trip to Siem Reap is complete without witnessing the sunrise over Angkor Wat. Arrive around 5:00 am to claim your spot by the reflecting pond and watch the towers silhouette against the pink-orange sky. It’s an early start, but absolutely worth it.

Explore Angkor Thom and the Bayon

After sunrise (and maybe a strong local coffee), head into the walled city of Angkor Thom. The highlight here is Bayon Temple, known for its mesmerising stone faces — over 200 of them staring down from the towers. Each one has a slightly different expression, making it feel almost alive.

Wander through Ta Prohm

Famous for its role in Tomb Raider, Ta Prohm is where nature reclaims history. Giant tree roots snake through ancient stone walls in one of the park’s most atmospheric sites. It’s also slightly quieter by mid-morning, making it great for a slower wander.

Lunch stop: Try Khmer cuisine at Chanrey Tree or Mahob

Break up your temple circuit with a sit-down lunch at a traditional Khmer restaurant. Chanrey Tree offers beautifully plated classics like fish amok and green mango salad, while Mahob, set in a converted wooden house, uses ingredients from its own garden.

Visit the Angkor National Museum

Spend your afternoon in air-conditioned comfort exploring Cambodia’s history and spirituality. The museum offers excellent context to everything you’ve seen in the morning, with artefacts, interactive displays, and a deep dive into the symbolism behind Angkor’s architecture.

Evening: Phare, the Cambodian Circus

Wrap up the day with a show that combines circus arts, theatre and social impact. Phare isn’t your average tourist gimmick — it’s genuinely gripping, emotional, and high-energy. Book ahead, as seats fill up fast in peak season.

Ta Prohm, Siem Reap.

Day Two: Markets, Villages and Street Food

Morning visit to a floating village or countryside bike tour

Start your day by getting out of the city centre. Head to Kompong Phluk, one of the more authentic floating villages on Tonlé Sap Lake. It’s best visited early, when the light is soft and the water traffic is quieter. Alternatively, rent a bike and join a countryside cycling tour — you’ll pass rice paddies, water buffalo, and smiling locals waving from stilt houses.

Try a Cambodian cooking class

After exploring, get hands-on with Khmer cuisine. Many classes begin with a local market visit before diving into traditional recipes like banana blossom salad, green curry, and sweet sticky rice with mango. Le Tigre de Papier and Cooking Class at Lily’s Secret Garden are solid options.

Visit Artisans Angkor

A great post-lunch stop, Artisans Angkor showcases traditional crafts like silk weaving, wood carving, and stone sculpting — all made by local artisans trained through social programmes. You can watch the process unfold and support local creators by picking up something special.

Explore Old Market and surrounding streets

Head back into town and wander Psar Chaa (Old Market). It’s a maze of everything from fresh produce to souvenirs to silks. Around the market, the streets are filled with cafés and boutiques if you fancy a cool drink or last-minute gift shopping.

Evening street food crawl on Pub Street and beyond

Skip the restaurants tonight and dive into Siem Reap’s buzzing food scene. Try skewered meats, crispy spring rolls, beef lok lak, or even grilled frog if you're feeling adventurous. Road 60 (just outside town) is a top local spot for street eats, especially around sunset. End the night with a drink at one of the rooftop bars near Pub Street — or a fish spa, if you're brave enough.

Pub Street, Siem Reap.

Tips for Visiting Siem Reap

Get your Angkor Pass in advance

You’ll need an official Angkor Pass to visit the temples — a 1-day pass costs around £30 (€35), and you can buy it at the main ticket centre (not at the temple gates). You can also pre-purchase online to save time at sunrise.

Dress respectfully for temples

Temples are sacred places. Cover your shoulders and knees, and wear breathable fabrics — it gets very hot, especially around midday.

Use tuk-tuks wisely

Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around, and most drivers offer full- or half-day tours. Negotiate your price before setting off — roughly £10–15 (€12–18) is standard for a day temple circuit. Many drivers will wait for you between stops.

Carry small cash and local currency

While some places accept USD, small notes in Cambodian riel (KHR) come in handy for local eateries, markets and tips. ATMs are widely available, but some charge foreign card fees.

Stay hydrated

It’s humid year-round, so pack a reusable water bottle (most hotels have filtered refill stations) and pace yourself when temple-hopping.

Watch out for scams

Avoid pushy vendors, overly cheap tours, and unofficial guides near temples. Stick to well-reviewed operators and be cautious of any “urgent” donation requests.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap.

Where to Stay

Onederz Hostel

A top pick for backpackers, Onederz is right near Pub Street but far enough to get a decent night’s sleep. It has both dorms and private rooms, a rooftop pool, and a social but chilled vibe — perfect for solo travellers or digital nomads on a budget.

Viroth’s Hotel

This beautifully designed boutique hotel blends 1950s retro style with modern Cambodian luxury. Think leafy courtyards, sleek pools, and spa treatments — all a short tuk-tuk ride from the Old Market. Great for couples or anyone after a quieter, design-forward stay.

Jaya House River Park

For something eco-conscious and truly memorable, Jaya House is a standout. With plastic-free policies, local community support projects, and impeccable service, it’s luxury with purpose. Bonus: free unlimited tuk-tuk rides during your stay.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap.

What to Pack for Siem Reap

Lightweight, breathable clothing

It’s hot and humid year-round, so stick to loose cotton or linen. Moisture-wicking fabrics are also a bonus.

Temple-appropriate attire

Pack a scarf or sarong to cover shoulders and something knee-length or longer for temple visits. Many sites will turn you away otherwise.

Refillable water bottle

Most hotels and hostels offer refill stations, and it’s a great way to cut down on plastic. You’ll need to stay hydrated, especially when touring temples.

Sun protection

Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses — the midday sun can be brutal, especially around Angkor Wat’s stone complexes.

Insect repellent

Mosquitoes are common, especially during the rainy season and around dusk. Repellent with DEET or natural alternatives like citronella work well.

Power bank and travel adaptor

You’ll be out exploring for long stretches, so a portable charger is key. Cambodia uses a mix of plug types (A, C, and G), so bring a universal adaptor just in case.

Small cash in riel

While USD is widely accepted, local currency is useful for markets, street food and tipping tuk-tuk drivers.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap.

Siem Reap may be famous for Angkor Wat, but it’s the mix of ancient wonder and everyday life that makes it unforgettable. In just 48 hours, you can watch the sunrise over sacred stone towers, get lost in temple ruins swallowed by jungle, taste bold flavours from sizzling street stalls, and connect with a culture that’s as warm as it is resilient.

Whether you're ticking off bucket-list icons or chasing moments that rarely make the guidebooks, this little Cambodian city offers more than just a stopover — it offers a story you’ll want to keep telling.