Things to do in 

Siem Reap

Think about Siem Reap, and the first scent that might hit you is the sweet frangipani wafting through ancient temple ruins. But beyond the reputable allure of Angkor Wat, you'll find a generosity of experiences waiting to be discovered. The things to do in Siem Reap are as much about its vibrant street life as they are about its illustrious past. Try local delicacies at the Old Market, cycle through sleepy countryside villages, or witness the silver shimmer of Tonle Sap lake at dawn. Siem Reap is a city that invites you to run your hands through its many textures and come away fascinated.

Explore Siem Reap off the beaten path

Beyond the temple loop, you’ll find alternative things to do that connect you with calm spaces, local routines, and creative places where the day unfolds at an easy pace.

Cultural experiences: At dawn near Wat Bo, join locals offering alms to orange-robed monks, then sip iced coffee on the curb as the city wakes. By evening, grab seats at Phare, the Cambodian Circus, where high-energy theatre and live music tell modern Khmer stories.

Small museums and galleries: Slip into Theam’s Gallery, a quiet home-studio showing lacquer work and paintings in a shady garden. Then swing by APOPO Visitor Center to learn how trained rats detect landmines and hear first-hand demining stories. If you’re curious about hardware from the past, the small War Museum Cambodia displays rusted tanks and helicopters in an open yard.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Ride a tuk-tuk to Phnom Krom for a sunset perch above the Tonle Sap floodplains, breezy and usually calm. On another afternoon, wander the West Baray embankment, watch kids swimming, and catch fishermen casting nets against a soft orange sky.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Come late afternoon to the Made in Cambodia Market near the river to meet artisans and pick up silk scarves, woodcuts, and natural soaps. By day, the Angkor Handicraft Association Fair Trade Village gathers stalls selling baskets, palm-sugar sweets, and cotton weaves with prices posted. For something different, the Rehash Trash workshop-boutique sells colorful, upcycled bags and coasters made from cleaned plastic thread.

Popular neighbourhoods

Touring diverse neighbourhoods is a sure-fire way to experience a city's unique character. The beauty of Siem Reap's neighbourhoods lies in their charm, personality and cultural richness that captivates every visitor.

Pub Street: Step into a buzz of activity. This lively area comes alive as dusk settles in, with colourful lights illuminating a pedestrian paradise of eating spots, roadside bars, and friendly locals.

Old Market Area: Soak up local life with a stroll through the bustling bazaars. The market teems with fruits, vegetables, clothes, and memorabilia, offering an immersive peek at everyday Siem Reap.

French Quarter: Experience a slice of history. Vintage French colonial architecture lines quiet streets, a hush compared to the city chaos, allowing leisurely exploration and unhurried delight.

Wat Bo: Relax in this serene, less-touristy section of the city. Marvel at Wat Bo Temple's preserved murals while letting the locale's spiritual atmosphere seep into your senses.

Kandal Village: Step inside Siem Reap's trendy neighbourhood. Fashionable, independent boutiques, modern cafes and art galleries create an eclectic mix appealing to contemporary aesthetics.

Things to do in Siem Reap by season

Spring: Heat rises, so plan sunrise at Angkor and slow midday breaks, then join Khmer New Year in April with water blessings, sand stupas and street smiles. Evening markets and shaded courtyards keep families and seniors comfortable.

Summer: Rains green the countryside, temple moats brim and Tonle Sap swells for atmospheric boat rides. Expect brief afternoon showers, perfect for ducking into cooking classes or a spa before calm, uncrowded explorations.

Fall: Showers taper and breezes turn softer, with Bon Om Touk in November bringing boats and lanterns to the river. Quiet temples, rice harvest scenes and mellow evenings give couples an easy pace and photographers rich light.

Winter: Cool, dry days make this the best time to visit, from crisp Angkor dawns to long al fresco lunches. Christmas in Siem Reap feels relaxed with twinkly Pub Street lights, and seniors enjoy gentler temperatures on city and village walks.

Each year brings Khmer New Year festivities in April, the Water Festival in November and creative energy from the Angkor Photo Festival. December’s Angkor Wat International Half Marathon loops through the temples, while the Giant Puppet Parade lights up the streets early in the year.