1. Overview
Siem Reap is the gateway to the legendary Angkor but also contains many other equally charming experiences. This list of the top 10 things to do Cambodia Siem Reap takes you from museums and street food festivals to floating village life, performing arts, and exploring nature in addition.
2. Suggestion for top 10 things to do Cambodia Siem Reap
2.1. Visit Angkor Wat – the great wonder of humanity
One of the top priority activities in the list of things to do Cambodia Siem Reap is visiting the Angkor Wat relic complex – the largest religious temple complex in the world, an indispensable symbol of Cambodia. This place not only has majestic beauty but is also the historical pride of the Khmer people.
Walking around each corridor and altar, visitors can admire the sophisticated reliefs recreating the Ramayana epic. The quiet space at dawn or dusk brings a deep spiritual experience.
Exploring Angkor Wat also helps to understand more about ancient architectural techniques and the development of the once brilliant Angkor civilization. This is a must-visit destination when coming to Siem Reap.
- Opening hours: 05:00–17:30
- Ticket price: 37 USD/day, 62 USD/3 days, 72 USD/7 days
- Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap
Explore Angkor Wat Temple – a world famous wonder in Cambodia (Source: internet)
2.2. Walk and explore Angkor Thom
Angkor Thom was once the last capital of the Khmer empire, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. The center of the complex is the Bayon temple, standing out with its mysterious giant stone faces.
Other structures such as Baphuon, Phimeanakas, and the Terrace of the Elephants create an attractive archaeological space. Each area contains historical and religious stories worth exploring.
A day of visiting Angkor Thom helps visitors clearly feel the peak of power and culture of the Jayavarman VII dynasty. You can rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk to visit all the points in the complex.
- Opening hours: 05:00–17:30
- Ticket price: included in the ticket to Angkor Wat
- Address: Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap
2.3. Watch the sunset at Phnom Bakheng
Phnom Bakheng is a small hill with an ancient Hindu temple located on the top. This is an ideal place to watch the sunset over the majestic Angkor complex, a good suggestion for things to do Cambodia Siem Reap.
Visitors often climb the mountain in the afternoon to reserve a spot because the number of people to the top of the temple is limited. The scene of the sun gradually sinking behind the forest canopy and ancient stone walls creates a spectacular scene.
Phnom Bakheng is also an ideal destination to relax after a day of exploring ancient temples. The fresh air and expansive views make for a memorable experience.
- Opening hours: 05:00–19:00
- Ticket price: included in the Angkor Wat ticket
- Address: Phnom Bakheng Hill, Angkor Park, Siem Reap
Enjoy the sunset of Phnom Bakheng on the mysterious sacred land (Source: internet)
2.4. Enjoy local cuisine at Siem Reap Night Market
Siem Reap Night Market is a paradise for foodies and shoppers and is a top destination on the list of things to do Cambodia Siem Reap. The stalls sell a variety of delicious street food, such as num banh chok, grilled fish, or fried insects.
You can enjoy dinner on the sidewalk, sip on local beer, or try some cool rolled ice cream. The bustling and friendly atmosphere of the market is perfect for relaxing in the evening.
In addition to food, the market also sells many souvenirs, such as scarves, hand-carved wooden items, and traditional handicrafts. A walk around the night market will be a lively and memorable experience.
- Opening hours: 17:00–23:00
- Address: Angkor Night Market Street, Siem Reap
2.5. Watch a traditional Apsara performance
Apsara dance is a traditional Cambodian art form, recreating the fairy dance in Hindu legend. Don’t miss this activity in your list of things to do Cambodia Siem Reap.
You will have the opportunity to admire the body language and costumes of the dancers, meticulously crafted, showing grace and sacredness. Each movement tells a legendary story that has been passed down through many generations.
This is a great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of ancient Khmer culture and beliefs. This experience is especially suitable for families and culture lovers.
- Showtimes: usually from 19:30
- Ticket price: 20–35 USD (including buffet or set menu)
- Suggested address: Temple Balcony (Pub Street), Koulen Restaurant
Admire the captivating Apsara dance in Siem Reap, Cambodia. (Source: internet)
2.6. Visit the Angkor National Museum
The Angkor National Museum houses thousands of ancient artifacts, depicting the glorious history of the Khmer Empire. Each gallery has its own theme, such as Buddhism, astronomy, weapons, or medicine.
Visitors can admire the statues of Vishnu, Shiva, Brahma, and Buddha through the ages. The modern interactive projection system helps visitors understand the meaning of each artifact.
A visit here is an ideal preparation before exploring Angkor Wat. The museum space is beautifully designed and has a movie theater and a souvenir shop.
- Opening hours: 08:30–18:00
- Ticket price: 12 USD/adult
- Address: Charles De Gaulle Blvd, Siem Reap
2.7. Take a boat trip to explore Tonlé Sap Lake and Kampong Phluk Floating Village
Tonlé Sap Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, with a rich ecosystem and an essential role in the lives of the people. Visitors can take a boat to Kampong Phluk Floating Village to see life on the water – an experience worth having when mentioning things to do Cambodia Siem Reap.
People here live in wooden houses built on stilts, with schools, markets, and churches all floating. The floating season creates a poetic landscape and is the best time to visit.
The boat will pass through mangrove forests and traditional fishing areas, providing a vivid look at Cambodia’s aquatic culture. A peaceful journey with many beautiful photo spots.
- Opening hours: all day (best from 09:00–16:00)
- Tour price: about 20–25 USD/person
- Address: 16–20 km from Siem Reap, can be reached by tuk-tuk
Floating houses are a unique feature of Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia (Source: internet)
2.8. Visit the Artisan d’Angkor stone and silk carving workshop
Artisan d’Angkor is a social organization that supports rural youth to learn traditional crafts. Visitors can observe the process of stone carving, lacquer painting, silver making, and silk weaving completely by hand.
Each product is imbued with Khmer culture and made by skilled artisans. The serious and creative working atmosphere in the workshops will be a strong inspiration.
After the tour, you can visit the showroom to choose high-quality souvenirs. This is a way to travel responsibly and contribute to the preservation of folk art.
- Opening hours: 08:00–18:00
- Admission fee: free
- Address: Stung Thmey Street, near Pub Street, Siem Reap
2.9. Experience a Khmer cooking class
Many local restaurants and organizations in Siem Reap offer cooking classes for visitors. You will be guided from choosing ingredients at the market to preparing typical dishes such as amok, mango salad, and fish cakes.
Classes are usually limited in number to create a sense of intimacy and ease of practice. The kitchen is fully equipped, and there are enthusiastic instructors throughout the session.
At the end of the session, visitors will enjoy the meal they made and receive a souvenir certificate. This is one of the interesting experiences that will complete your list of things to do Cambodia Siem Reap.
- Class time: usually 09:00 or 14:00
- Price: about 20–30 USD/person
- Suggested locations: Le Tigre de Papier Cooking Class, Lily’s Secret Garden
Amok steamed fish is a specialty dish of Siem Reap city, Cambodia. (Source: internet)
2.10. Relax with a traditional Khmer massage
After days of traveling and sightseeing, a Khmer massage is an ideal way to restore energy. The massage method does not use oil, focusing on acupressure points.
Many spas in Siem Reap combine massage with traditional herbs to increase the relaxation effect. The quiet space and soft lighting create a pleasant feeling from the moment you step in.
You can choose treatments from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on your needs. The services at reputable spas are very professional and friendly.
- Price: around $6–20 depending on the spa
- Suggested locations: Lemongrass Garden Spa, Bodia Spa, Khmer Relief Spa
3. Conclusion
Despite being famous for Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is also a perfect destination for those who love culture, nature, and local experiences. If you are looking for things to do Cambodia Siem Reap, the above list will be an indispensable companion on your journey of discovery. Let Asia Luxury Travel accompany you, bringing complete journeys with high-class service and memorable experiences.
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