TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Siem Reap is full of so many amazing things to see and do, which is why we are sharing the top 10 things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Siem Reap is a growing city in the heart of Cambodia, just a 5-hour drive away from Bangkok, Thailand, and under an hour away from the capital of Phnom Penh. 

Best things to do in Siem Reap

ANGKOR TEMPLE COMPLEX

One of the greatest draws to Siem Reap is the amazing UNESCO World Heritage temples that beg to be explored. The grand Angkor Wat is often people’s first stop and also the largest of temples, occupying 208 hectares (500 acres). This beautiful three-tiered building surrounded by a lake and animals, along with a vast and open interior makes Angkor Wat top of many lists.

Head to Angkor Wat early (around 5am) to catch the sunrise over the temple. Whilst visiting the temples, you can also stop and explore Bayon; known for the carved faces in the stone architect. Angkor Thom is also a fascinating visit, with the buildings appearing almost overthrown by the ever-growing trees. As seen in the Lara Croft Tomb Raider movie, this temple is a jaw-dropping and memorable sight.

Day passes are available from $ 20 USD whilst under 12s are free as are all Cambodian nationals. The temples are open from sunrise to sunset with most hotels and guesthouses offering Tuk Tuk tours around the temples. Balloon rides are also available. We visited the Angkor complex in a day easily.

LANDMINE MUSEUM

An interesting museum that dives into the Cambodian history and use of landmines. This is also a relief center, building classrooms for the children of Siem Reap.

Open 7.30am – 5.30pm, adults entry $5, children under 10, and Cambodian nationals are free. Guided tours are available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday – in English and Japanese.

CAMBODIAN COOKING CLASS

To really get a taste of Cambodia, get yourself in a cooking class. We took our course with Le Tigre de Papier, which offered a great package with friendly and informative staff and a spacious clean cooking area. The food was delicious and these classes are a great way to meet new people and make friends.

1-hour exploring food market, 2 hours preparing a 3-course meal, then eat. 10am and 1pm in English and 5pm in English and French – daily. $14 per person including ingredients at Le Tigre de Papier. We loved this cooking course and would highly recommend you make it part of your Siem Reap Itinerary.

TONLE SAP LAKE AND KAMPONG PHLUK FISHING VILLAGE

Discover a different way of life on the Tonle Sap Lake. Learn about the floating villages propped up across the lake or take a cruise boat through the lake and see the schools, shops, hospitals, and crocodile farms floating along. From the lake, you can also visit the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, a concentration of some elegant and exotic birds, with ecotourism companies arranging trips here throughout the year.

ANGKOR NIGHT MARKET

When in Siem Reap, you must check out the Angkor Night Market. Offering over 200 shops, some great restaurants, and bars as well as food stands; this is a great place to spend an hour or so in the afternoon and early evening. It is here that many tourists try a fish foot massage and grab some souvenirs, clothes and Khmer-inspired silks and jewelry.

Every Night from 4pm – 12pm, can be found on Night Market Street – just a short walk from Pub Street.

HAPPY RANCH HORSE FARM

For a relaxing hour or so, take a horse ride along countryside trails. Happy Ranch Horse Farm is an excellent company who are dedicated to taking care of its animals. The 3 or 4-hour rides take you through the secluded temple Wat Atvea, a peaceful visit that gets you away from the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap.

Rides are available from sunrise to sunset, costing $28 for an hour ride and up to $69 for 4-hour trail ride. Cart rides are also available for families when booked in advance. It is suggested you reserve your ride in advance.

There are some fun things to do in Siem Reap with kids and this is definitely one of them.

MILITARY SHOOTING RANGE

Open daily 9am – 5pm, duration of 1 – 2 hours, free pick up from your hotel in Cambodia.

For those looking for something different in Cambodia, check out the Cambodia shooting range – with a selection of rifles to choose from. Check prices on their website before you book as this can be pricey for budget travelers.

PUB STREET

After hiking around temples and cycling across dirt roads, Pub Street is the place to head to for a relaxing or not-so-relaxing evening. Offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs with cheap food and drink, Pub Street is always busy once the sun goes down. 

PHARE CIRCUS

Whilst in Siem Reap, it is worth checking out the Phare Circus. As a Cambodian non-profit company, the artists of this circus group see to help vulnerable children and young adults by building careers in the arts. Inspired by Khmer history, the circa is a great way to spend an evening.

Every night at 8 pm, ticket prices range between $18 – $25 for an adult ticket, depending on whether you wish for reserved seating in the front 3 rows or unreserved, open seating.

ANGKOR NATIONAL MUSEUM

Learn about the Khmer Kingdom; one of the ancient civilizations of the world. Take this royal historic path through Cambodian history and its golden era. A great choice for history lovers, but be aware that photographs are not permitted inside the museum.

Open 8.30am – 6pm, adult tickets $12 USD and child (6-11 years) $6 USD. The museum can be found on Charles De Gaulle road in the royal residence district of Siem Reap.