There are many amazing and fun things to do in Siem Reap, Cambodia. One of the most popular activities is visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any traveler to Siem Reap.
Other popular activities include exploring the old city, going on a river cruise, and taking a cooking class. There are also many great places to shop, eat, and drink in Siem Reap. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, you’ll find it in this wonderful city.
Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia and the capital of Siem Reap Province. The city has a population of around 175,000 and is the gateway to the Angkor region, home to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex. There are plenty of fun things to do in Siem Reap, whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just relaxation.
Here are some of our top picks:
- Visit the amazing temples of Angkor Wat.
- Take a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake.
- Go on an elephant ride through the jungle.
- Visit a local village and experience traditional Cambodian life firsthand.
- Get up close and personal with crocodiles at the Crocodile Farm & Zoo.
What is Siem Reap Famous For?
Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia and the capital of Siem Reap Province. It is the gateway to Angkor Wat, the famous temple complex of medieval Khmer civilization. Siem Reap has become one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and temples, as well as its nightlife and restaurants.
The city center is located on the Siem Reap River about 1.5 mi (2.4 km) from Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The town was founded in 1296 by King Jayavarman VII and served as his capital until 1431 when it was sacked by invading Thai armies. It remained under Thai control until 1867 when it became part of the French Protectorate of Cambodia until 1953 except for a brief period during World War II when Japan occupied Cambodia.
In 1963, Siem Reap was granted provincial status within Cambodia under Prince Norodom Sihanouk’s rule who named it after himself: “Siemreab” meaning “Siamese Defeated”.
What to Do in Siem Reap in 3 Days?
If you’re interested in exploring Siem Reap and want to make the most of your time, here is a suggested itinerary for what to do in Siem Reap in 3 days.
Day 1: Start with a visit to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex. Take your time wandering around the various temples, soaking up the history and atmosphere. In the afternoon, head to Tonle Sap Lake for a boat tour which will give you an insight into the local way of life.
Day 2: Get up early for a sunrise tour of Angkor Wat before spending the rest of the day exploring more of the temples at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner while watching an Apsara dance performance – a must-do while in Siem Reap!
Day 3: Today is all about relaxation. Visit one of Siem Reap’s many spas for a massage or treatment, then spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring markets such as Psar Chaa and Old Market. If you’re feeling active, hire a bike and explore some of Siem Reap’s quieter streets and neighborhoods away from the main tourist areas.
Where Can I Hang Out in Siem Reap?
There are plenty of options for things to do in Siem Reap, whether you want to explore the temples of Angkor Wat or take a stroll through the old town. Here are some of our top picks for places to hang out in Siem Reap:
1. Pub Street: This is the most popular spot in Siem Reap, and for good reason – it’s full of bars, restaurants, and clubs that stay open late into the night. If you’re looking for a place to let loose and have some fun, this is the place to be.
2. Siem Reap River: Take a relaxing boat ride along the river or simply enjoy the views from one of the many cafes and restaurants that line its banks. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Pub Street while still being in the heart of downtown.
3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: This sobering museum provides an important glimpse into Cambodia’s dark past under Khmer Rouge rule. It’s not an easy visit, but it’s an incredibly powerful one that shouldn’t be missed.
4. Angkor Wat: Of course, no visit to Siem Reap would be complete without seeing this world-famous temple complex.
Whether you opt for a guided tour or go it alone, exploring Angkor Wat is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Can You Wear Leggings to Angkor Wat?
There’s no strict dress code when visiting the temples at Angkor Wat, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dress modestly. That means covering your shoulders and knees. So, while you can technically wear leggings to Angkor Wat, it’s not appropriate.
If you want to stay cool in the heat and humidity, opt for a light maxi skirt or sundress instead.
Unusual Things to Do in Siem Reap
Siem Reap is a city in Cambodia that is known for its many temples, including the world-famous Angkor Wat. However, there are plenty of other things to do in Siem Reap besides visiting temples. Here are some unusual things to do in Siem Reap:
1. Visit the Landmine Museum and learn about Cambodia’s dark history.
2. Go on a tour of the city’s sewer system. Yes, really! It’s an interesting way to see how the city works behind the scenes.
3. Watch a traditional Khmer shadow puppet show. This is a unique form of entertainment that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
4. Take a cooking class and learn how to make authentic Cambodian cuisine.
5. Rent a bicycle and explore Siem Reap’s countryside outside of the city center. You’ll be amazed at how beautiful it is!
Things to Do in Siem Reap Besides Temples
There is no denying that Siem Reap is best known for its temples – after all, the city is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat. However, there is so much more to Siem Reap than just its temples! If you’re looking for things to do in Siem Reap beyond visiting temples, here are some great ideas:
Take a Cooking Class One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through its food, and what better place to learn about Cambodian cuisine than in Siem Reap? There are several cooking schools in town where you can take classes and learn how to make traditional dishes like amok (a fish curry) and bai sach chrouk (pork and rice).
Not only will you get to enjoy a delicious meal at the end of class, but you’ll also have the skills (and recipes!) to recreate these dishes back home.
Visit Tonle Sap Lake Tonle Sap Lake is Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake and an integral part of Cambodian life. The lake plays host to a floating village where over 3,000 people live in stilted houses connected by a network of bridges. You can take a boat tour of the village to see this unique way of life up close and even stop for lunch at one of the restaurants on stilts. Afterward, head to Phnom Penh Floating Village – another floating village on Tonle Sap Lake that has been transformed into a tourist attraction with zip lines, waterslides, and more!
Get Your Shop On at Old Market & Psar Chas Old Market (Psar Chas) is Siem Reap’s main market area and the perfect place to pick up souvenirs like handmade silver jewelry, wood carvings, Kampot pepper, and more. Haggling is expected here so come prepared with your bargaining skills!
Just be sure not to pay too much – remember that most vendors start high expecting you to haggle them down. After you’ve had your fill of shopping, walk over to nearby Psar Chas (aka “Old Market”) for even more shopping opportunities as well as some great street food options.
New Place to Visit in Siem Reap
Siem Reap, Cambodia is a bustling city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. One of the newest additions to the city is the Siem Reap Riverside Boutique Hotel, which offers visitors a chance to stay in luxury while enjoying all that Siem Reap has to offer. The hotel is located right on the banks of the Siem Reap River, providing stunning views and easy access to all of the city’s attractions.
The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the staff is attentive and friendly. If you’re looking for a new place to visit in Siem Reap, be sure to check out the Siem Reap Riverside Boutique Hotel!
Siem Reap Attractions
Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia and the gateway to the ruins of Angkor, the seat of the Khmer kingdom from the 9th to the 15th centuries. A popular tourist destination, Siem Reap boasts a plethora of hotels, restaurants, markets, and shops catering to travelers. In addition to its many historical sites, Siem Reap offers a variety of other attractions for visitors to enjoy.
The Angkor National Museum is one of Siem Reap’s most popular tourist destinations. The museum provides an overview of Cambodian history and culture with exhibits on pre-Angkorian civilizations, the Angkor period, post-Angkorian art, and contemporary Cambodian art. The museum also houses an extensive collection of Khmer artifacts including sculptures, ceramics, bronzes, and textiles.
The Old Market (Phsar Chas) is another popular attraction in Siem Reap. The market dates back to the early 20th century when it was first established by Chinese immigrants who came to Siem Reap to trade goods with the local residents. Today, Phsar Chas is a bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike can find everything from traditional Khmer handicrafts to souvenirs and fake designer goods.
Other attractions in Siem Reap include Wat Bo Temple, Banteay Srei Temple (the “Citadel of Women”), Preah Kahn Temple (the “Sacred Sword”), Kompong Phluk Floating Village (a village built on stilts over a lake), Tonle Sap Lake (the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia), Beng Mealea Temple (a jungle temple complex that’s still being excavated), Roluos Group Temples (Preah Ko temple is pictured above), Ta Prohm Temple (“Tomb Raider” temple), Artisans d’Angkor (a center where you can watch wood carvers at work), Les Chantiers Ecoles (where you can see young people learning traditional arts & crafts).
Free Things to Do in Siem Reap
Looking to explore Siem Reap on a budget? Here are some great ideas for free things to do in this fascinating city! Wander the Old Market area – Also known as Psar Chas, the Old Market is the perfect place to get a feel for Siem Reap and its rich culture.
Stroll through the bustling market stalls, haggle for souvenirs, and try out some of the delicious street food on offer. Visit Angkor Wat – One of Siem Reap’s most iconic landmarks, Angkor Wat is an absolute must-see. This ancient temple complex is simply breathtaking, and best of all, entry is free for Cambodian citizens and children under 12 (foreigners pay a small entrance fee).
Explore Phnom Bakheng – Another popular temple complex, Phnom Bakheng offers stunning views over the jungle canopy. It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when thousands of bats take flight from the trees below. Take a walking tour – A great way to see Siem Reap’s sights without spending any money is to join one of the many free walking tours offered by local companies.
These tours typically last around 2 hours and cover all the main highlights of the city.
Siem Reap Hotels
Siem Reap is a bustling town in Cambodia, and it is the gateway to the amazing temples of Angkor. Siem Reap has plenty of hotels to choose from, so finding the perfect place to stay during your visit should be easy. Here are some of our top picks for hotels in Siem Reap.
The Shinta Mani Club is a great option if you are looking for luxury accommodations. This hotel has a spa and pool, and it is located within walking distance of many of Siem Reap’s best restaurants and bars. The rooms at the Shinta Mani Club are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful.
The Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is another great choice for those seeking luxury accommodations. This resort features two outdoor pools, a golf course, and a full-service spa. The rooms at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort are elegantly appointed, and the staff provides impeccable service.
If you’re looking for more affordable accommodations, consider staying at the TaraAngkor Hotel. This hotel offers comfortable rooms with all of the necessary amenities, and it is conveniently located near many of Siem Reap’s attractions. The TaraAngkor Hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves delicious Cambodian cuisine.
Best Place to Visit in Siem Reap
Siem Reap, Cambodia, is known for its rich history and stunning temples. Here are some of the best places to visit in Siem Reap:
- Angkor Wat: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument globally, known for its intricate architecture and stunning sunrise views.
- Bayon Temple: Located in the heart of Angkor Thom, Bayon is famous for its captivating stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs.
- Ta Prohm: Covered in tree roots and vines, Ta Prohm provides a unique and atmospheric experience, showcasing the symbiosis of nature and ancient architecture.
- Angkor Thom: Explore the ancient capital city of the Khmer Empire, featuring the Terrace of the Elephants, the Terrace of the Leper King, and the impressive South Gate.
- Biking Tours: Rent a bike to explore the Angkor complex and the surrounding countryside, offering a more immersive and flexible way to see the sights.
- Pub Street: Siem Reap’s vibrant nightlife hub, Pub Street offers a lively atmosphere with a variety of bars, restaurants, and street food.
- Tonle Sap Lake: Take a boat trip to Tonle Sap, the largest lake in Southeast Asia, and witness floating villages, diverse wildlife, and a unique way of life.
- Angkor National Museum: Gain insights into Khmer civilization and the history of Angkor through a collection of artifacts, multimedia displays, and informative exhibits.
- Phare, the Cambodian Circus: Experience a mesmerizing blend of acrobatics, theater, music, and dance performed by talented Cambodian artists.
- Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Center: Learn about the impact of landmines in Cambodia and efforts towards demining and rehabilitation at this educational museum.
Conclusion
Siem Reap offers a perfect blend of historical marvels, cultural experiences, and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching adventure.
If you’re looking for an incredible travel destination with a rich culture and plenty of amazing things to do, look no further than Siem Reap, Cambodia! This charming city is home to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex, as well as countless other temples, museums, markets, and more. You can explore the jungle on a trekking adventure, learn about traditional Khmer cuisine and dance, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches.
No matter what your interests are, Siem Reap has something for everyone – so start planning your trip today!
