Location: Siem Reap
Top Things to do in Siem Reap
The 10 Best Things to do in Siem Reap, Siem Reap Province
When the morning light washes over the overgrown temples and ruins of Angkor Wat, a simple Siem Reap sunrise becomes a profound event. The ancient structures are contained within one of the largest religious complexes in the world. The complex and the 12th century Angkor Thom royal city are considered the main reasons to visit Siem Reap. Get a lesson in national history at the Cambodian Cultural Village, and a lesson in bargaining at the Angkor Night Market, a bonanza of shopping stalls, food vendors, and bars.
Restaurants in Siem Reap
1. Angkor Wat
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 48,121 reviews
Reviewed By carolsD3992WS - Halfmoon Bay, Canada
Watching the sun rise over Angkor Wat was special and we were amazed learning the history of this UNESCO World-Hertiage Site that has elaborate architecture and intricate carvings of daily life that defy the construction and engineering skills of the times.
2. Angkor Thom
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8,614 reviews
This magnificent inner royal city was built by the end of the 12th century and is renowned for its temple grounds and towering southern gate.
Reviewed By BradJill - Hong Kong, China
Angkor Thom was the last great Khmer capital and the zenith of this ancient civilisation. The walled complex measures 10 square km and includes impressive entrances such as the famous South Gate which demonstrates the unique architecture of this time period in the form of a smiling stone face in the tower overlooking a causeway lined with collection of demons and gods both holding a 50 metre long Naga - seven headed snake figure. There are other impressive entrances, most notably the Gate of Death and Gate of Victory on the east side of Angkor Thom. Within the complex, you will also find the second most famous of the Angkor temples in Bayon Temple. North of Bayon, visitors can explore the grounds of Baphuon and Phimeanakas temples as well as the very interesting Terrace of the Elephants and Terrace of the Leper King. Note: Most who are taking in the Short Circuit route through the Angkor Archeological Park will enter Angkor Thom from the South Gate after visiting Angkor Wat to the south. You then visit Bayon and the other attractions mentioned above. In the end, we very much enjoyed the South Gate entrance, Bayon Temple and the Terrace of the Elephants. These we would consider Must-Sees in Angkor Thom. The rest can be visited depending on the amount of time you have available.
3. Ta Prohm
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 19,276 reviews
Having undergone minimal restoration, stone pillars and carvings intertwine with massive tree roots and jungle in this stunning temple complex.
Reviewed By lynnem232
An amazing Temple and not too far from the city of Siem Reap. The location for the Lara Croft Tomb Raider movie, this temple is being reclaimed by nature and the sight of these magnificent trees enveloping the temple is awesome in the true meaning of the word. If you can only see one temple during your visit to Siem Reap this would definitely be my choice.
4. Bayon Temple
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20,652 reviews
Reviewed By M9625HWjamesm - Windsor, United States
Take your time, make sure you have either a guide or an in depth guide book, and consider making a second visit....it's amazing and worth every minute you spend there. Go in the morning when all the large groups are still at Angkor Wat.
5. Angkor Archaeological Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5,125 reviews
Angkor Wat, the one of the largest religious complexes in the world, and a stunning array of 9th to 13th century temples built by the kings of the Khmer Empire. The Angkor Archaeological Park is breathtaking, and still the principal draw for every visitor to Siem Reap.
Reviewed By eib2017
What an incredible place to see! Any one of the temple ruins would have been a wonder on its own and it seems almost unfair towards the smaller temples that the bigger ones get all the limelight. I hired a bicycle for a day and cycled both routes and I would recommend doing that to anyone who has a reasonable level of fitness and likes having some freedom of movement. (It's also by far the cheapest option.) But most people seem to hire a tuk tuk for a day. It's not expensive and you also have the option to go wherever you like - the tuk tuk driver is at your disposal for as long as you've hired him. Every tuk tuk driver in the city seems to offer tours, so don't bother wasting money to book a tour online. I don't recommend a van tour. It's generally the most expensive and it robs you of the pleasure to slow down as you pass some magnificent ruins and appreciate them briefly (or even stop and see them properly) on your way to the larger and more touristic ruins. Finally, I only bought a day pass because my time in the city was (unfortunately) limited. But the three day pass is DEFINITELY worth it. You will want to go back.
6. APOPO Visitor Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 816 reviews
Reviewed By Seeitalldoitall
Just visited this amazing place. There is about a 45 minute tour that includes a video some visuals and a live demonstration so you can see how the rats are trained and the great work they are accomplishing. Utilizing the rats allows the people working them to move quickly and efficiently which ultimately saves lives. This proves that not all heros wear capes! Please go and see, please donate to this wonderful organization and help to spread the word!
7. Banteay Srei
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,230 reviews
Banteay Srei or Banteay Srey is a 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Located in the area of Angkor, it lies near the hill of Phnom Dei, 25 km north-east of the main group of temples that once belonged to the medieval capitals of Yasodharapura and Angkor Thom.
Reviewed By UNNIMAYA - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Known popularly as Ladies temple this red sandstone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is widely praised as Jewel of Angkor Wat for its intricate carvings. Another piece of interesting information- this is the only major temple in Angkor not built by a monarch - the construction is credited to the courtiers named Vishnukumara and Yajnavaraha.
8. Cambodia Landmine Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,480 reviews
The Landmine Museum was founded by ex-child soldier Aki Ra as a way to tell the world about the horrors landmines had infilcted on his native Cambodia. He used the proceed to clear landmines wherever he could find them. In the process of clearing small, remote villages, he began bringing home wounded and orphaned children that he and his wife raised as their own, along side their own children. Today the Museum not only tells Aki Ra's unique history and the history of landmines in Cambodia, but it is also home to over two dozen abandoned, orphaned or destitute children. All are cared for, housed, fed, educated and given a future they would otherwise never have had.
Reviewed By SarahUKUSA - Los Angeles, United States
I have visited Cambodia Landmine Museum many times over the years. It is well worth it is as a timely reminder of how Cambodia was severely affected by land mines and bombing, and how the Cambodian people have been affected in the aftermath, especially in the rural areas. It's one thing to read the statistics but another to see exactly what caused so much destruction. Here you can see up close the mines themselves and other munitions (the volume of exhibits is staggering), and learn why they are so challenging to clear. What is inspiring is that local de-mining teams associated with the museum are working tirelessly to clear areas that are still mined, in order to make their communities safe. On the safe land schools are now being built by the local people - with the help of local and international support. Villages and communities are being transformed. The museum is compact, very well-organised and in a tranquil setting. I have taken guests who are always very moved by what they experience and in my opinion it's as important as Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields if one wants to understand Cambodia's tragic history and ongoing recovery efforts. Guides are available and there are information boards throughout. In addition to the information presented, I always find it a place of reflection on the cruelty of war, that continues long after the fighting ends. If you are fortunate to meet Jill and Bill Morse, who founded the museum and remain dedicated to land mine clearance efforts, their story and those of the people they work with, will touch your heart. I know first hand that many visitors return home inspired to become part of this tremendous mission - to raise awareness and eradicate land mines in Cambodia. It can be done, with help! Consider watching the uplifting documentary 'Until They're Gone' (on Amazon and other platforms) to learn more. A lovely shop on-site offers unique mementos and some interesting gifts that can't be found elsewhere in Cambodia! Since the museum is located a little ways out of the town of Siem Reap (easy for any guide or driver), I recommend combining the Museum visit with Banteay Srei and other temples in the area that are less crowded than Angkor.
9. Angkor National Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,277 reviews
Angkor National Museum - The Legend Revealed During the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom, one of the ancient civilizations of this world was being created. It was the origin of Khmer art, culture, and architecture. These great inventions became one of the few wonders of the world that still amaze people throughout generations that still hold a great impact in present Cambodia society. Angkor National Museum takes pride in revealing the royal historical path of this Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom through state of the art multimedia technology to provide visitors a full pictorial story of the legend for easy comprehension. Angkor National Museum will take its visitors through the journey back in time from the creation to the highest point of Khmer civilization. Through the use of interactive exhibits, visitors will develop a deeper understanding of customs, traditions and different beliefs of the ancient empire.
Reviewed By SEMARA77 - Siem Reap, Cambodia
I came to this museum twice, what a great place , i learn so much about khmer history and beyond, the artifacts are great collection, after visiting angkor wat this this a must place to go, than you will got complete circle of knowledge about it, i strongly suggest you rent the audio tape guidance, its help you enjoy the museum much more- love it..
10. Pub Street
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 10,015 reviews
Some may find it over-powering, but if you're looking for where everybody is, then Pub Street it is. Lined with restaurants and bars selling cheap beer and reasonable food. Later on, the music starts thumping and there's often almost a party atmosphere. People watching is free.
Reviewed By petersI5612GU - Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom
Great place after site seeing the place is full of restaurants and bars and is bouncing every night, night market very close excellent cannot fault and 50 cents for a beer wow thumbs up for me
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