Siem Reap 3N - Phnom Penh 2N

Welcome to Siem Reap, the gateway to the ancient Khmer civilization and the famous Angkor Wat temple complex! You’ll be picked up from the airport for a tour of the city. This afternoon, we'll visit Wat Bo, an 18th-century pagoda known for its unique 19th-century wall paintings of the Reamker (Ramayana). Next, we’ll explore Senteurs D'Angkor New Workshop (open weekdays), where you can see local artisans crafting handmade products like coconut oil soap, natural cosmetics, and aromatic candles. You'll also learn about local spices like Kampot pepper and lemongrass, and taste various local delights such as flavored coffee and exotic jams. Finally, we’ll head to Psar Chars, the lively “Old Market,” where you can find a wide variety of goods. Overnight stay in Siem Reap.

Start your visit to the ancient capital of Angkor Thom at the South Gate, known for its colossal human faces. Explore the Bayon Temple, famous for its 54 towers adorned with over 200 smiling faces, and the Baphuon Temple, representing holy Mount Meru in Hindu tradition. Tour the Royal Enclosure, Phimeanakas, the Elephant Terrace, and the Terrace of the Leper King. Next, visit Ta Prohm, where massive fig trees intertwine with the ruins, showcasing nature reclaiming man-made structures, notably featured in Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie.

In the afternoon, explore Angkor Wat, famed for the world's longest bas-relief illustrating Hindu legends, built in the 12th century and covering 210 hectares. Stroll through its galleries, columns, and ponds reflecting the temple. End your day at Phnom Bakheng Temple for a relaxing sunset view before returning to Siem Reap for the night.

Explore the Angkor temples, starting with Takeo, a pyramid-shaped mountain temple symbolizing Mount Meru. Next is Preah Khan, dedicated by King Jayavarman VII to his father as a Buddhist temple, followed by Neak Pean, showcasing exquisite Khmer art. Visit Ta Som, a classic Bayon-style monastic complex, and then Banteay Kdei, a serene Buddhist temple known as the Citadel of Chambers. Head to Srah Srang, a former royal bathing pool, and then Banteay Samre, built around the same time as Angkor Wat. Finally, discover Banteay Srei, famed for its pink stone carvings. Return to Siem Reap Town in the afternoon to explore the local market and enjoy an overnight stay at a hotel.

Transfer to the bus station with the driver only and take the morning bus to Phnom Penh (bus ticket included). Picked up and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Phnom Penh.

This morning, we'll explore the National Museum of Cambodia, home to over 14,000 artifacts that showcase Khmer culture from various historical periods. Highlights include the eight-armed statue of Vishnu and a meditative statue of Jayavarman VII. Next, we'll visit the Toul Sleng Genocidal Museum (S-21), the site of Khmer Rouge interrogations. In the afternoon, we’ll tour the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda. The Royal Palace is known for its stunning architecture, particularly the Throne Hall with its impressive 59-meter tower topped with golden tiles. The Silver Pagoda, adorned with 5 tons of silver tiles, houses lavish Buddha statues. We'll stroll through the riverfront park where the Mekong River meets three others, and visit Phnom Daun Penh, the namesake of the capital. Our final stop is the Central Market, a dome-shaped market designed by French architect Louis Chauchon in 1937, featuring numerous stalls. Overnight at the hotel in Phnom Penh.

Time at leisure or shopping until check out time, and transfer to the airport with a driver only (no guide) for the departure flight back to your sweet home.