Things to Do in Siem Reap: Beyond the Obvious
The best things to do in Siem Reap including Angkor, museums, markets, food, countryside, shows and day trips.
Updated 20 Oct 2026
The best things to do in Siem Reap including Angkor, museums, markets, food, countryside, shows and day trips.
Start with Angkor
Angkor is still the anchor. Give it enough time before filling the rest of the itinerary.
Explore the city itself
Walk the river area, browse Old Market, spend time around Wat Bo and use the city as more than a place to sleep.
Learn something
The Angkor National Museum and cultural activities add context that makes the temples more meaningful.
Eat and drink well
Siem Reap has a strong restaurant and cafe scene, from Khmer food to tasting menus and casual bars.
Go outside town
Tonle Sap, countryside cycling, Phnom Kulen and outer temples are all strong reasons to stay longer.
Hey It's Cambodia practical take
How I would avoid activity overload
Pick one cultural activity, one food focused activity and one excursion beyond the temples. That gives the trip variety without turning every day into a checklist.
Best choices by energy level
After a hard temple morning, I would choose museum, spa, cafe or market time. Save countryside cycling, Kulen or Tonle Sap for a day when you actually want another active outing.
Keep planning
Things to do besides Angkor Wat · Phare guide · Angkor National Museum · Best markets · Best day trips