Siem Reap is a unique blend of splendor and culture, a city that receives millions of visitors every year and the gateway to one of the wonders of the world – Angkor Wat. The temples of Angkor, being on the most popular attraction and Things to do in Asia make Siem Reap a popular destination. However, you’ll be surprised to see how many other things you can do in Siem Reap!
These are Best 11 Incredible Things to Do in Siem Reap
1 – Visit Angkor Wat – the symbol of Cambodia
This goes without saying and we don’t think a single person would visit Siem Reap without venturing out to see the wonderful temples of Angkor.
The largest religious monument in the world offers stunning sights during the sunrise, however, it is also the busiest moment to visit.
If you are serious about seeing the Angkor temple without all the tourists then see it from above with a Helicopter ride, or book a full Angkor Wat Adventure Tour during the off-peak time that your guide will advise you.
2 – Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight
Hot Air Ballon is another good things to do and the most magical experiences you can find in Southeast Asia, taking flight over the Angkor complex at sunrise or sunset is magnificent. Compared to the helicopter, the hot air balloon is slower, more peaceful, and quieter. Up above is also the perfect place to take photos so don’t forget to take your camera!
3 – Hop on a Jeep or a dirt bike for an offroad experience
If you want to discover some of the ‘forgotten’ temples and explore the Cambodian countryside then hire a jeep to discover Beng Melea temple and to visit Kampong Kleang, the largest floating village of Cambodia, or to visit the ruins of the Bantey Srey temple complex, is a must try.
For the most adventurous ones, opt for a ride on a Honda Dream and explore Siem Reap surroundings via backroads, you’ll be thrilled by the beauty of the rice fields, villages and local farms you will be passing by.
4 – Angkor National Park
As mentioned before Angkor Wat is a must-visit place in Siem Reap, but the Angkor National Park is so much more than just Angkor Wat.There you will find famous temples, from Tomb Raider Ta Prohm (the temple slowly being overcome by majestic trees) and over 400 other temple ruins.
To visit this UNESCO heritage site, you can buy tickets for 1,3 or 7 days.It’s a good idea to join a guided tour for at least one of the days to see the main sites or to hire a vespa , seat backand relax while your driver is taking care of the road.All you need to do is enjoy the ride to explore the World famous Angkor.
5 – Visit Les Artisans d’Angkor
Les Artisans d’ Angkor is a social enterprise company helping bring jobs to rural villages, keeping ancient Khmer arts alive and promote fair development of Khmer arts and crafts. They have a showroom in the city and you can also shop online. Les Artisans d’ Angkor also offer workshops and have an interesting silk museum open to visitors.
6 – Take a pottery class
Les Artisans d’ Angkor is a great things to do and to visit is the Khmer ceramic fine arts center. Find some beautiful ceramic pieces inspired by Cambodian culture, visit their training center or even try your hand at making your own!
7 – Visit the Old Market
Also known as Psah Chas (pronounced “psa cha”), the old market is right in the heart of town and was the original market before the countless others cropped up. This market has everything and is a must visit as it will give you a glimpse of the real Cambodia, the country that lies outside of the well visited Siem Reap.
8 – Shop in the Siem Reap Art Night Market
Siem Reap Art Market is located on the east bank of the Siem Reap River, opposite the Old Market (Phsar Chas), and is connected to it via a traditional wooden bridge. It is things to do in Siem Reap and it is a newer night markets in town, Siem Reap Art Market has a wide range of handicrafts and souvenirs to choose from.
9 – Try a Fish Spa
Veteran travelers to Southeast Asia will have experienced these spas before but they are mostly new to many. For around $5-10 you can soak your feet in a tank of dead skin-eating fish resulting in beautiful (or rather clean) feet. As part of the deal, most places also throw in a can of beer while the fish are working.
10 – Shop at the Made in Cambodia Markets
You have to time your visit to the ‘Made in Cambodia’ markets carefully, but it is more than worth it. Held on the first and third Saturday of the month, this market showcases some of the best handmade items Cambodia has to offer. From jewelry to food, live music and performances, this is the creative future of Cambodia.
11 – Foodie Tour by night
Food lovers will enjoy Khmer cuisine on a Vespa tour! What could make this experience better – experiencing it at night of course. One of the best attractions on offer in Siem Reap, this tour also comes with a free flow of alcohol and a driver (thankfully). Not to be missed!
