Beyond Angkor visits, Siem Reap offers a rich cultural and gastronomic programme.
Markets and shopping: Old Market (Phsar Chas, traditional Khmer market 24/7), Angkor Night Market (5pm-11pm), Made in Cambodia Market (ethical crafts and local designers, 2-10pm).
Nightlife: Pub Street (city's nightlife heart), Alley West (quieter adjacent alley), Sok San Road (another alternative), Hap Guan Street (Khmer massage street and Asian restaurants). Recommended bars: Miss Wong (sophisticated cocktails, 1930s Shanghai atmosphere), Asana Old Wooden House (cocktails in an old Khmer stilt house).
Cultural activities: Phare The Cambodian Circus (social acrobatic circus, 7:30-8:45pm shows, USD 18-38, highly recommended). Apsara dance shows with dinner: Apsara Theatre (USD 35-50), Smile of Angkor (USD 60-90).
Classes and workshops: Khmer cooking classes (USD 15-40, half-day with market visit), pottery classes at Khmer Ceramics, silk classes at Artisans Angkor.
Engaged visits: APOPO Visitor Center (HeroRATs mine detectors, USD 10), Cambodia Landmine Museum (25 km north, USD 5, founded by former child soldier), Artisans Angkor (traditional silk and sculpture workshop, free visit).
Khmer massages: Bodia Spa (upscale, USD 25-50/hour), street massages around Pub Street (USD 5-10/hour).
Tonle Sap excursions: floating villages — Kompong Phluk (most authentic, USD 25-30 half-day), Chong Kneas (most touristy, USD 30), Mechrey (bird reserve, USD 25).
Read also
- Angkor Wat — The world's largest religious monument — the reason for Siem Reap's existence.
- Siem Reap and Angkor — The complete region: Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Tonle Sap.
- Cambodia — Complete country guide: visa, currency, regions, best time to visit.
- Phnom Penh — Cambodia's capital — to combine with Siem Reap (6h bus or 45 min flight).