Siem Reap is a city that is rich in Cambodian culture & history and is well-equipped for the masses of tourists that visit each year. There’s no denying that most tourists come to Siem Reap to explore the Temples of Angkor Wat. Which are amazing, but this guide will show you that there are other things to do in Siem Reap besides temples.
Come to Siem Reap with a thirst for historical knowledge & local beer, awesome food plus interactions with some really beautiful people.
Things To Do In Siem Reap Besides Temples
Pub Street
Pub street is probably the most touristy place in Siem Reap but for good reason. From 5 pm onwards the road is closed to traffic. And like many other south-east Asian cities, walking streets are the best place for nightlife.
I visited Siem Reap only weeks after Cambodia reopened quarantine free. So I feel like I didn’t get the best Pub Street experience. I’d heard it gets pretty wild at night!
Nevertheless, everything was open, the brightly coloured neon decorations were shining and there was plenty of delicious food & countless drink deals being offered. There just weren’t the tourist numbers to really make the street pop.
The Paper Tiger restaurant is an awesome place to start your night, so much good food (including vegan options). Grab a table at the front so you can see the street come alive.
Markets in Siem Reap
One of the best things to do in Siem Reap, besides temples, is to explore all the local markets.
There are 3 main markets in Siem Reap, all slightly different. The Siem Reap Art Center Night Market was my favourite but expect to be hassled by every store you pass.
Siem Reap Art Center Night Market
This market is open from 4-11 pm every day except Sunday. Here I found the best clothing and beautifully local made homewares. Plus some really unique handpainted t.shirts, wallets and bags.
The Siem Reap Art Center Night Market is located across the road from the river.
Old Market / Psar Chaa
This market is perfect if you’re looking for souvenirs or fresh fruits, vegetables & herbs. Psar Chaa is the oldest Khmer market in Siem Reap so definitely one of the things to do in Siem Reap if you’re looking for more authentic local experiences. Although I’m sure they’ll charge you more than they would a local.
The market is only a short walk from Pub Street and is open every day from 6 am – 9 pm.
Also, during the day a section of this market operates as a wet market so be aware if you are a bit squeamish or sensitive to certain smells.
Made in Cambodia Market
This market stands on its own as the place to find high-quality locally made products including jewellery, silk scarfs and homewares.
You won’t find any cheap knockoffs, everything about the Made in Cambodia Market has a more luxurious feel compared with the other markets in Siem Reap. Plus here you won’t be hassled by store owners to purchase their products.
The market is open every day from 12 pm – 8 pm and it’s located on Oum Khun street.
Walk Along The Siem Reap River
Taking a walk along the Siem Reap river is nice at any time of day. The river runs through the city centre and there are multiple bridges along the river so it’s easy to cross over.
Research has recently uncovered that the Siem Reap river is actually an artificial watercourse, created by the Khmer Empire but either way this is a free & relaxing activity to do in Siem Reap.
Later in the afternoon and into the night the river gets lined with street food stalls, so a great opportunity to grab a quick and cheap dinner.