Siem Reap is a treasure trove of history, culture, and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Southeast Asia. Home to the legendary Angkor Wat and an array of other incredible temples, this charming city offers so much more than just its ancient ruins. From bustling markets and vibrant nightlife to serene countryside and artisanal crafts, Siem Reap has something for everyone. If you still don’t know what to visit in Siem Reap, look no further! In this article, we'll be covering the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia, from well-known options to slightly more off-the-beaten-path destinations that will guarantee an adventure to remember!

What to Visit in Siem Reap?

Angkor Wat

We’ll start off the list with Cambodia’s most famous attraction—Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat is this amazing ancient temple complex in Cambodia that everyone raves about, and for good reason! Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it's the largest religious monument in the world. Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist site. The temple is huge, with an impressive moat around it, and the architecture is just stunning. You’ll find these intricate carvings and bas-reliefs all over the place, depicting stories from Hindu mythology and historical events. It’s got an iconic central tower with lots of smaller towers around it, creating a mesmerizing skyline, especially at sunrise and sunset. People from all over the world come to see this incredible piece of history, and when you’re wandering through its halls and courtyards, you can almost feel the ancient grandeur and spirituality. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and definitely one of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm Temple is one of the coolest spots in the Angkor Archaeological Park, and it's famous for looking like something straight out of an adventure movie. Built in the late 12th and early 13th centuries by King Jayavarman VII, this temple was originally a Buddhist monastery and university. What makes Ta Prohm stand out is how nature has taken over; massive tree roots are intertwined with the stone ruins, making it look like the jungle is slowly reclaiming the temple. The roots of the giant silk-cotton trees and strangler figs snake their way through the ancient walls, creating this incredible, almost surreal atmosphere. The place exudes a mystical aura, especially in the early morning when the light filters through the trees. It's also super photogenic and became even more famous after being featured in the film "Tomb Raider" with Angelina Jolie. Exploring Ta Prohm feels like stepping back in time and discovering a hidden, forgotten world, which is what makes it one of the top 10 best and most unique things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Angkor National Museum

One of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is none other than the Angkor National Museum. It is a fantastic place to get a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Khmer Empire before you get back to temple hopping. The museum is modern and well-organized, with eight galleries showcasing a massive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and relics of the Khmer civilization and the Angkor Majesty. You'll find everything from ancient statues of Hindu gods and Buddhas to beautifully detailed carvings and inscriptions. There's also a cool multimedia presentation that explains the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire, giving you a solid background on the significance of the temples you'll see at Angkor. The museum does a great job of walking you through the evolution of Khmer art and architecture. It's definitely worth a visit if you want to appreciate the temples even more and get a sense of the rich history behind them. It's entirely air-conditioned, which is a nice break from the heat outside! Audio guides are available for $5 if you want a more detailed visit. 

Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple is one of the most unique and captivating temples in the Angkor complex, located right in the heart of Angkor Thom. What sets Bayon apart are the massive stone faces that adorn its towers—there are about 200 of them, with serene, smiling expressions that look down on you from every angle. The temple's structure is quite complex, with narrow corridors, steep stairways, and a series of levels that make it feel like a labyrinth. As you wander through, you'll also see detailed bas-reliefs depicting scenes of everyday life, battles, and mythological events. The central sanctuary and its surrounding galleries are intricately carved and filled with history. Bayon has this incredible allure, especially when the light hits those giant faces just right, giving the place an almost otherworldly feel. It’s definitely a must-see if you’re exploring the temples of Angkor and one of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Prasat Preah Khan

Prasat Preah Khan is another incredible temple in the Angkor complex that offers a unique and captivating experience. Built by King Jayavarman VII in the 12th century, it's a sprawling complex with a mix of crumbling ruins and well-preserved structures, surrounded by a lush jungle that adds to its mystical charm. One of the coolest things about Preah Khan is how it feels a bit like a maze—there are long corridors, hidden doorways, and beautiful courtyards to explore. The main temple is dedicated to 515 deities, enclosed within walls of 700 meters. Like Ta Prohm, Preah Khan has massive trees with roots that weave through the stone walls, creating a stunning fusion of nature and architecture. It’s less crowded and in a better state of preservation compared to its counterpart, which means you can wander around and soak in the atmosphere without too many tourists around. It’s without a doubt among the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Set aside an hour or two in this peaceful, slightly off-the-beaten-path spot for a real sense of the ancient world of Angkor.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Phare, the Cambodian Circus, is an absolute must-see in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This isn't your typical circus—it's a high-energy blend of traditional and modern elements that tells compelling stories about Cambodian culture and history through acrobatics, theater, dance, and music. The performers are incredibly talented and come from the Phare Ponleu Selpak school, an arts organization that helps disadvantaged youth in Cambodia. Each show is unique, combining jaw-dropping stunts with emotional narratives, often reflecting real-life experiences of the performers or tales from Cambodian folklore. The vibe is electric, with a live band providing an awesome soundtrack to the performance. It's not just entertaining but also deeply moving and inspiring, highlighting the resilience and creativity of the Cambodian people. Plus, by attending, you're supporting a great cause, helping to provide opportunities for young artists to thrive. Phare is definitely one of those experiences that sticks with you long after the final applause.

Banteay Srei 

Banteay Srei, often referred to as the "Citadel of Women" or the "Jewel of Khmer Art," is a stunning temple located about 25 kilometers north of the main Angkor complex. Built in the 10th century and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, it's renowned for its exquisite and intricate carvings, which are some of the finest in all of Angkor. The temple is made of red sandstone, which allows for these detailed, elaborate designs that cover nearly every surface of the structure. The level of craftsmanship is truly remarkable, with delicate reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, floral patterns, and mythical creatures. Despite its smaller size compared to other temples like Angkor Wat, Banteay Srei’s beauty lies in its detailed artistry and the intimate scale of its architecture, making it one of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The temple feels almost like a jewel box, with its warm hues and finely wrought details that glow beautifully in the sunlight. The surrounding area is also quite picturesque, with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere that makes the visit even more enjoyable. It's a bit off the beaten path, but definitely worth the trip for its unique charm and breathtaking artistry.

Pub Street

Pub Street in Siem Reap is the epicenter of nightlife and one of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia, if you want to kick back with a few drinks after a whole day of temple hopping. The street is lined with a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, offering something for everyone. It’s got this vibrant, buzzing atmosphere, with neon lights, loud music, and people from all over the world mingling and having a blast. You can find everything from local Cambodian cuisine to international dishes, and the street food stalls are perfect for a quick, tasty bite. This is where you can find super cheap draught beer, for less than a dollar! There are also plenty of souvenir shops and market stalls where you can pick up unique items. Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening with a few cocktails or a night of dancing, Pub Street has got you covered. It’s a lively, energetic spot that shows a different side of Siem Reap and is definitely worth checking out.

Tonlé Sap

One of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap besides Angkor Wat is Tonlé Sap. It is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake and an ecological marvel located in the heart of Cambodia. It plays a crucial role in the country's environment and economy. The lake's unique seasonal flow reversal causes it to expand dramatically during the wet season, transforming the surrounding area into a vast, vibrant ecosystem. It's home to numerous floating villages where local communities have adapted their lifestyles to the rhythms of the water, living in stilt houses and relying on fishing for their livelihoods. Visiting Tonle Sap offers a fascinating glimpse into these traditional ways of life, with boat tours available that take you through the floating villages and past bustling fish markets. You'll also see a variety of bird species and lush mangrove forests, especially if you visit the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary, which is a haven for bird watchers. The interplay of nature and human ingenuity around Tonle Sap makes it one of the most captivating destinations in the city, reflecting the dynamic relationship between the Cambodian people and their environment.

Artisans Angkor

Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap is a fantastic place to experience the rich tradition of Cambodian craftsmanship up close. It's a social enterprise that provides training and employment to young Cambodians in various traditional arts and crafts, helping to preserve and revive traditional Khmer craftsmanship. When you visit, you can take a guided tour of their workshops where you’ll see skilled artisans at work, creating beautiful items like silk scarves, stone carvings, woodwork, and lacquerware. It's really fascinating to watch them in action, using techniques passed down through generations. The artisans are incredibly talented, and you can tell they take great pride in their work. The quality of the products is top-notch, making them perfect for unique souvenirs or gifts. There are two main centers, one on Stung Thmey Street specializing in crafts, and another in Puok district, specializing in silk. You can also find several shops selling handicrafts at Angkor Silk Farm, the Angkor Café, and in the Siem Reap and Phnom Penh airports. Artisans Angkor is one of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia; it's a chance to connect with Cambodian culture and see firsthand the dedication and artistry that goes into these traditional crafts.

How Many Days do You Need to See Siem Reap?

To truly appreciate all that Siem Reap has to offer, I recommend spending 2 to 3 days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the main temples of Angkor, delve into local culture and crafts at places like Artisans Angkor, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Pub Street, and perhaps take a boat trip on the remarkable Tonle Sap Lake. With a few extra days, you can venture further afield to sites like Banteay Srei or simply relax and enjoy the unique ambiance of this fascinating city.

Well, there you have it, some of the top 10 best things to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia. If you’re planning to visit the beautiful city soon, you can check out some of our itineraries below. If you want to change the programs to suit your preferences and schedule, feel free to contact Vietnam Original Travel.

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