The Best Things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap is home to the largest religious structure in the world, Angkor Wat. It’s a major bucket list item for many people and it does not disappoint. Hopefully you have room in your schedule to see more than Angkor Wat because there are so many things to do in Siem Reap.

How many days in Siem Reap should you stay? I think 5 days is a good amount of time, depending on how much you want to do while there. If you want to see a lot more than the Angkor Wat Archeolgoical Park, plan to spend a week or more there.

You came to see Angkor Wat but maybe you’re over the temples or just need a break. Here are some of the best things to do in Siem Reap.

How to get to Siem Reap

You can easily reach Siem Reap with a short flight from the Cambodia capital of Phnom Penh or any major city in Southeast Asia such as Bangkok or Ho Chi Menh City. Currently, there aren’t any direct flights from other regions of the world so you’ll have to fly to another major city first.

If you plan on visiting Thailand or Vietnam before Cambodia, you can take a bus to Siem Reap from those countries. From Bangkok, Siem Reap is about 7 hours by bus or other ground transportation.

Cambodia Visa

Most people visiting Cambodia will need a visa to enter the country. You can get your visa online as an e-visa before you arrive or you can get a visa on arrival at the airport or at the border if you’re traveling by vehicle.

A Cambodia visa will cost around $30 and will allow you to remain in the country for up to 30 days.

Angkor Wat

You cannot come to Siem Reap without visiting Angkor Wat. And when I say Angkor Wat, I’m not just talking about the temple of Angkor Wat. Within the Angkor Archeological Park, there are 72 temples to explore so just that alone would keep you busy for a week.

You’ll need to buy your Angkor Wat ticket before you can visit the complex and you can either buy it in person the day before (after 5pm) or you can purchase it online. You can buy a 1 day, 3 day, or 7 day pass. I recommend the 3 day pass over the 1 day pass because there are a lot of amazing temples to see.

You should start your first morning there by watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat. You’ll need to arrive really early, around 5:30am, and after that you can explore the temple before it gets too hot and crowded.

NOTE: There is a strict dress code when you visit temples in Cambodia so be sure to read and follow the rules. Seriously, they won’t let you in if you don’t.

When you’re finished, you can either visit more temples in the park or go back into town, grab some breakfast, and then head out to another activity. Trust me, there is so much more to Siem Reap than Angkor Wat, although that alone would be worth it.

You likely won’t see them all, just the major ones, and you’ll want something else to do once you’ve seen the temples you came to see.

What to do in Siem Reap – besides Temples

So what else is there to do besides visit temples when you’re in Siem Reap? Plenty! From learning about landmines to learning how to cook a traditional Khmer meal, there is so much to do in Siem Reap, you won’t have time to get bored.

If you want to see more than just Siem Reap, there are a lot of amazing places to visit in Cambodia that you could add to your Cambodia Travel Itinerary. If you only have a short time available for visiting Cambodia, I have a 5 day Cambodia itinerary that covers Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

If you have more time to stay in Cambodia then I recommend my 2 week itinerary for Cambodia that includes Siem Reap and six other places in Cambodia, including the beach.

Cultural & Historical Experiences in Siem Reap

Learning about the culture and history of a country you’re visiting is one of the best ways to get to know and understand that country. Here are 4 things to do in Siem Reap that help you understand Cambodia’s past.

1. Visit the Angkor National Museum

If you’re interested in learning about the Khmer empire, you should visit the Angkor National Museum before you visit the temples.

• Learn about the religions and beliefs of the Khmer empire through interactive exhibits.
• Explore 8 different galleries containing artifacts from the beginning of the ancient Khmer civilization.

Use the afternoon of your arrival day in Siem Reap to visit the Angkor National Museum. It’s a great way to become more familiar with the history of Angkor Wat and the Khmer empire before you visit the temples in person.

2. Apopo Visitor Center

How often do you get to see rats saving lives? The Apopo Visitor Center in Siem Reap is a fascinating and inspiring experience where visitors can learn about HeroRATs—African giant pouched rats that are trained to detect landmines and tuberculosis.

Apopo is a non-profit organization that has been using these specially trained rats to clear landmines in Cambodia and other post-conflict countries, helping to make land safe for communities.

• Interactive Exhibits – Learn about Cambodia’s landmine crisis and how the rats are trained.
• Live Demonstrations – Watch the famous HeroRATs in action as they sniff out buried landmines with accuracy.
• Impact Stories – Hear about the life-changing work Apopo is doing in Cambodia and how landmine clearance is helping local communities.

3. Cambodia Landmine Museum

Did you know that throughout Cambodia there are still a lot of landmines left over from civil war and the Khmer Rouge regime? People are still getting injured or die every year from unexploded mines in rice fields, jungles, and even along the roads kids use to walk to school.

Founded by a former child soldier, the Cambodia Landmine Museum educates visitors about the ongoing impact of landmines in Cambodia.

• Founded by Aki Ra, a former child soldier
• Listen to stories from those personally affected by landmines
• Take a self-guided audio tour or contact the museum for a personal tour

4. Wat Preah Prom Rath

Located in the heart of Siem Reap, Wat Preah Prom Rath is one of the most beautiful and well-maintained Buddhist temples in the city. It’s a peaceful escape from the busier streets and markets nearby.

• The temple features colorful murals and intricate carvings that depict scenes from Buddhist teachings.
• It’s home to a giant reclining Buddha, said to be one of the largest in Siem Reap.
• The complex includes meditation gardens and traditional Khmer architecture.
• If you visit in the late afternoon, you may see monks chanting, adding to the temple’s spiritual ambiance.

Photography Tip: The golden stupas and bright orange-robed monks make for excellent contrast shots, especially in the soft morning or late afternoon light.

Local Life & Unique Experiences in Siem Reap

Another way to learn about a country and it’s people is through experiences. Explore Cambodia’s art scene with the following unique experiences.

5. Made in Cambodia Market

The Made in Cambodia Market is where local artisans sell their handcrafted items. Many Cambodians live in poverty and by purchasing goods directly from the artists, you not only help them earn a living but it helps them to continue developing their skills.

The market isn’t very large but what you’ll find is quality products that don’t look like what every vendor elsewhere in Cambodia is selling. Some of the items you can find there are jewelry, clothing, toys, artwork, ceramics, and more.

At the Made in Cambodia Market you’ll also find live entertainment, workshops, and food.

6. Phare Cambodian Circus

More than just a circus, Phare is a social enterprise that provides free education and performing arts training to underprivileged Cambodian youth. The performances blend acrobatics, dance, music, and storytelling to share powerful narratives about Cambodia’s history, culture, and resilience.

• The performers are graduates of Phare Ponleu Selpak, a non-profit art school that helps disadvantaged youth gain skills and employment.
• Each show tells a unique and deeply moving story, often inspired by Cambodian history or folklore.
• Expect high-energy acts, including fire performances, contortion, aerial stunts, and comedy.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to explore the small Phare Boutique, where you can purchase locally made souvenirs that support the performers.

7. Psar Chaa Old Market

Psar Chaa, or Old Market, is a vibrant marketplace where locals and tourists shop for food, souvenirs, and everything in between.

What You’ll Find:

• Local Produce & Spices – From exotic fruits to fermented fish paste, this is where locals stock up on essentials.
• Souvenirs & Handicrafts – Silver jewelry, silk scarves, wooden carvings, and lacquerware make great take-home items.
• Khmer Street Food – Try grilled skewers, fresh spring rolls, or even a fried tarantula if you’re feeling adventurous!

Remember, bargaining is expected – Vendors often quote high prices, so haggling (with a smile) is part of the experience.

8. Theam’s Gallery

As a young boy, Theam once attended comrade school under the Khemer Rouge regime to be trained to fight and learn a new ideology. His family fled to France where he attended art school and he later returned to Cambodia as an adult to share his knowledge.

He has turned his home into an art gallery and working studio. The family lives upstairs but downstairs is where they work.

At Theams Gallery you can learn more about the Khmer culture through its art.

• Showroom: see exhibits of all sorts of art from paintings to ceramics to woodwork.
• Workshop: learn from knowledgable artists in sculpture, gold-leaf gilding, and other types of craftsmanship based in Cambodian tradition and the Khmer aesthtic.

9. Khmer Cooking Class

One of the best things to do in Siem Reap is to learn how to cook an authentic Cambodian meal in the home of a local. You’ll create 4 traditional Khmer dishes including favorites such as Fish Amok and Tom Yum.

• Go shopping for fresh ingredients at a local market
• Prepare, and then enjoy, a 4-course meal

10. Khmer Ceramics Centre

The Khmer Ceramics & Fine Arts Centre is a hands-on pottery experience where you can learn about Cambodia’s ancient pottery traditions which nearly disappeared during the Khmer Rouge era.

• Watched skilled artisans restoring ancient ceramic techniques, producing bowls, vases, and sculptures inspired by Angkorian art.
• The center offers interactive pottery classes where you can try your hand at making traditional Khmer ceramics.

The Khmer Ceramics Centre is a great place to buy authentic, handmade ceramics as souvenirs which also supports local artists.

11. Fair Trade Village

The Fair Trade Village is a community-driven marketplace where artisans sell locally made, ethically produced crafts.

• All items are fair trade certified, meaning artists are paid fairly for their work.
• You’ll find high-quality silk scarves, silver jewelry, woven baskets, and wood carvings.
• Meet the artists and watch live demonstrations of traditional Khmer craftsanship.

It’s the perfect place for travelers who want to shop sustainably and take home an authentic souvenir from Cambodia.

12. Apsara Theatre

The Apsara Theatre is one of the best places in Siem Reap to watch Apsara dance, Cambodia’s classical dance form that dates back to the Angkorian era.

The show features graceful dancers in elaborate costumes, reenacting ancient Khmer myths and legends.

• The theatre’s architecture is designed in classic Khmer style, adding to the ambiance.
• It’s a dinner and show experience, usually featuring a traditional Cambodian menu.

Outdoor Activities in Siem Reap

There are dozens of places to explore in Siem Reap that focus on nature and adventure. From walking through butterfly gardens to ziplining over the Angkor Forest. These are some of the best things to do in Siem Reap that bring you closer to nature.

13. Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity

The first nature conservation center in Cambodia, the Conservation of Biodiversity works in conservation of wildlife and biodiversity through wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, conservation breeding, and environmental education and conservation research.

Book a guided tour, available from 9 – 1:30 or contact them for a private tour option. The tour is 2 hours long for a donation of $5 or more.

14. Banteay Srey Butterfly Centre

Opened in 2009, this hidden gem is the perfect place for those who are passionate about nature and conservation. Thousands of butterflies, all native species to Cambodia, are within a netted garden and fly freely.

• Largest outdoor butterfly exhibit in Southeast Asia
• See the different stages of development from caterpillar to butterfly

15. Angkor Botanical Garden

Walk through 35 acres of gardens with over 500 species of plants and flowers and thousands of trees. Cambodia’s first botanical garden was created to protect natural resources and preserving indigenous species.

You’ll also find manmade waterfall gardens, wildlife such as peacocks, ostrich, and chickens. Kids (and adults) can feed fish, rabbits, and ducks.

There are five large gardens with different features:

• Traditional Garden – ornamental grasses, flowers, and plants
• Medicinal Garden – rare plants for cooking and traditional medicines
• Angkor Forest Garden – the park is part of the forest in the Angkor area where tourists can walk through
• Palm Garden – a collection of palm plants
• Khmer Garden – fruit trees such as mango and kao lak

The Angkor Botanical Garden is located in Siem Reap on the way to Angkor Wat.

16. Kulen Mountain (Phnom Kulen National Park)

Located just 50 km from Siem Reap (about 35 miles), Phnom Kulen is a sacred mountain featuring waterfalls, jungle hikes, and hidden historical sites.

• Waterfalls – A two-tiered waterfall where you can swim. The lower fall is great for photos, while the upper one is more secluded.
• River of a Thousand Lingas – An ancient riverbed covered in intricate Hindu carvings, dating back to the Khmer Empire.
• Reclining Buddha – A massive 16th-century Buddha statue carved into a rock, located at Preah Ang Thom Pagoda.
• Jungle Hikes & Viewpoints – If you’re up for exploring, you’ll find quiet trails leading to beautiful views.

17. Angkor Zipline

Feeling adventurous? Angkor Zipline offers an eco-friendly ziplining experience inside the Archaeological Park.

• Soar through the treetops of the Angkor jungle on a series of ziplines and sky bridges.
• Spot wildlife like exotic birds and gibbons
• Guides emphasize eco-tourism and conservation, making it an adventure with a purpose.

Angkor Zipline is the perfect activity for adventure seekers who want a break from temple hopping while still staying in the Angkor area. Visit temples, go ziplining, and back to temples.

18. Quad Adventure Cambodia Siem Reap

If you want to see rural Cambodia beyond Siem Reap’s tourist hotspots, a quad bike tour is one of the best ways to do it. You’ll ride through lush rice paddies, remote villages, and hidden temples, far from the usual tourist trails.

What to Expect:

• Local guides often stop at authentic Khmer villages, where you can interact with locals and see traditional ways of life.
• Sunset tours are especially popular, offering spectacular views of golden-hued fields and palm trees.
• No experience is necessary—most tour companies provide a quick lesson before you start.

Good to Know:

• Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or muddy, depending on the season.
• Some tour companies include a visit to a local pagoda or school, making it more than just a fun ride.

19. Lotus Silk Farm

The Lotus Silk Farm is a unique place where silk and textiles are made from lotus fibers, a rare and eco-friendly alternative to traditional silk. This process has earned awards including UNESCO’s recognition in 2012.

• Learn how lotus fibers are harvested and spun into delicate fabric as you watch artisans at work, hand-weaving silk and lotus textiles, an ancient Cambodian craft.
• Take part in a hands-on workshop where you can try traditional silk weaving techniques.
• Take a scenic boat ride through lotus fields.
• Shop for scarves, clothing, and accessories made from lotus and silk, all ethically produced.

20. Tonle Sap Lake

If you want to know what to do in Siem Reap where you can witness how many Cambodians live then visit Tonle Sap. This is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and is home to floating villages where thousands of people live in stilted homes.

Popular Floating Villages to Visit:

1. Kampong Phluk – Best for seeing traditional stilt houses and flooded forests (during the wet season).
2. Chong Kneas – The closest village to Siem Reap, though often considered the most touristy.
3. Kampong Khleang – Less visited and more authentic, with fewer tourist boats and a real sense of local life.

What to Expect:

• You’ll take a boat tour through houses, schools, and markets floating on the water.
• In the wet season (May–October), the forests around Kampong Phluk become flooded, allowing boat rides through the submerged trees.
• The lake plays a crucial role in Cambodian life, providing fish that sustain millions.

Best Time to Visit: The wet season offers the most scenic experience, but the dry season reveals towering stilt houses that sit high above the ground.

Food & Nightlife in Siem Reap

We all have to eat and unwind at the end of the day so these things to do in Siem Reap will help you do just that.

21. Asana Old Wooden House

Asana is Siem Reap’s only traditional wooden house bar where you can enjoy a cozy, laid-back vibe and sip Cambodian inspired cocktails

• Try unique Khmer cocktails made with local herbs and spices.
• Take a cocktail-making class to learn how to mix drinks using traditional Cambodian ingredients.
• The setting—a restored wooden house—offers a relaxing contrast to the loud bars on Pub Street.

22. Visit a spa

At the end of a long day of walking through temples, stepping over ruins, and battling the heat, you might want to end your day with a nice massage. Many hotels have their own spas but right near Pub Street you can find dozens of them lining the street.

You can choose from full body massages or just a foot massage. Either way, both are very affordable and will be much cheaper than the ones at the hotels.

You can’t miss them – there is literally one massage spa after another.

23. Siem Reap Food Tours

If you’re a foodie and want to try ALL the foods Cambodia has to offer, you will love this Street Food Experience by Tuk-Tuk. You’ll get picked up at your hotel and then spend the next 3-4 hours experiencing Cambodian foods.

• 1.5 hours of street food tasting
• Visit to the Made in Cambodia Market
• Another 45 minutes of food tasting athe the Phum Num Banh Chok noodle restaurant
• Guided tour through a food market and more street food
• Finish your tour with a stop at Asana Old Wooden House cocktail bar

24. Pub Street

At the end of every day, chances are good you’ll find your way to Pub Street. Pub Street is where you’ll find Siem Reap’s nightlife where there a ton of restaurants, bars, and loud music. There’s also street food, massage spas, and people everywhere.

• The official name of the street is Street 8, but everyone calls it Pub Street.
• Be sure to check out the very first club on Pub Street, Angkor What? Bar
• A few drinks in and you might want to try a fried tarantula or scorpion
• You’ll definitely want to try a fried ice cream roll which you can find on a street food cart

25. Sombai Infused Cambodian Liqueur Tasting

Sombai is a Cambodian liqueur infused with local fruits and spices, offering a taste of Khmer flavors in a bottle.

• The tasting experience is held in a beautifully decorated shop with hand-painted bottles that make great souvenirs.
• Flavors range from tropical (mango, passionfruit) to exotic (lemongrass, chili).
• You’ll get to sample multiple infusions and learn how the liqueur is made.
• It’s a fun way to end the day before heading out for dinner or a night at Pub Street.

Pro Tip: Pick up a bottle as a unique Cambodian souvenir—they make great gifts!

Getting around Siem Reap

Siem Reap is not a large city like Phnom Penh where you have to worry about a lot of traffic so if you want to rent a car while there, you can but it’s not necessary. There are plenty of other inexpensive ways to get around.

Tuk-tuk drivers and taxis are everywhere throughout the city and you can even hire them for the day to take you wherever you want to go. What’s great about hiring a local to drive you is they know exactly where to go and the fastest way to get there. You can hire a driver for $20-30 a day which comes to a very inexpensive option per person.

Our favorite way to get around when traveling is to rent a motorbike or scooter. You can rent one for $5-10 a day and be in complete control of where you’re going. Don’t worry about having to shift gears either because with a scooter, you just turn it on and go.

Read more of my Cambodia Travel Guides to find out where to go and what to do while there.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Whether you are on a tight budget or love to stay in luxurious hotels, Siem Reap has them all. And the best part is that they are ALL affordable. Yes, even the luxury hotels!

Final Thoughts

Siem Reap Cambodia is one of my favorite places I’ve ever been. It’s super laid back and with so many things to do in Siem Reap you could easily spend a month there. This list of things to do in Siem Reap is just a tiny fraction of the hundreds of things to do and see there.

So pick your favorites and enjoy your stay in Siem Reap!