If you already know everything about Angkor Wat and/or you are thinking about doing something different while in Siem Reap, Cambodia – I got you covered.

Although the temples throughout Siem Reap are a must-see and extremely spectacular, there’s so much more to the culturally-rich Cambodian city that is often forgotten about! When I visited Cambodia, I was a bit “temple-fed-up” and I wanted to experience other things besides Angkor Wat.

Ready To Travel? Don't Go Without Travel Insurance.

I recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance, an affordable travel insurance offering automatic monthly payments that you can cancel anytime. I've been using it since 2019, and I can assure you it's the perfect solution for nomads like you and me. Learn more by reading our SafetyWing review.

If you feel the same or if you’ve seen the temples already, here are the best things to do in Siem Reap besides temples.

Tour the Lotus Farm

Lotus farm siem reap

Take a tour explaining the production process that results in the rare, luxurious fabric made from the lotus flower. Aside from the incredibly unique views of the green and pink flowers, learn about the fabric that plays a large role in the national eco-friendly clothing movement.


Planning your upcoming adventures? Travel by bus! (It's cheap!)

Powered by 12Go Asia system

  • Price: $2 entry fee
  • How to get there: Take a tuk-tuk from the city

Party on Pub Street

Just as the name suggests, this street is lined with pubs, bars, and clubs that are alive and thriving until the sun rises, every-single-night! The neon lights hanging above you mixed with the diversity of people selling a diversity of exotic street foods, including fried scorpion, makes for an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you with amazing memories (or a lack thereof).

Shop the Old Market, “Psah Chas”

This market, directly in the centre of town, was the original market for any and all goods, there long before other markets started popping up. In the centre of this historic market is the food area – stop by for a vast array of Cambodian delights!

Spend the Evening at a Night Market

If you’re an adventurous spirit looking for unusual fried creatures and bugs to try, the Angkor Night Market is the place to go. If you’re looking for an intriguing variety of handcrafted goods, different kinds of artwork, and souvenirs to bring home, head to the Art Night Market, a newer market located opposite the Old Market.

Take a Day Trip to a Floating Village

Floating Village Cambodia

Floating villages are known as the best way to get a look into the authentic, local life of Cambodians. If this intrigues you, take a day trip to one of the few floating markets near Siem Reap. Of the two closest villages, Kompong Phlouk is known to be very authentic but you get a shorter boat ride for the same price ($20), while Kompong Khleang is less touristy and is known as the most authentic and beautiful floating village.

Go on a Food(ie) Tour

Fried insects Cambodia

An awesome way to gain an understanding of the local culture, cuisine, and way of life, all from a local tour guide. Some food tours are offered on Vespas, and some include the opportunity to cook a meal at your local tour guide’s home – both experiences you cannot refuse!

  • Price: $20-$72 tours (depending on what tour)

Visit a Museum or Two

Get your fix of history and a deeper understanding of the culturally and historically rich country of Cambodia at the War Museum and Landmine Museum.

  • Price: $5 entry fee for each museum

Explore The National Museum of Cambodia

Whether you stop by for the beautiful architecture, ancient artifacts, or the peaceful courtyard in the centre of the museum, a trip here won’t disappoint.

  • Price: $10 entry per person

Go to the Circus

Have you ever been to a circus before? I remembered going to a circus in Cambodia and it was a fun experience. It’s a great way to encourage an NGO while you’re visiting the country.

  • Price: Start at $18 per person

How Many Days Should You Spend in Siem Reap?

cambodia temples

If you count one day to visit Angkor Wat, then you’ll need an extra 1 or 2 day to enjoy the surroundings and the fun things to do in Siem Reap. I reckon 2 to 3 days should be enough to make the most of the city. Although, if you love history, you might want to stick around longer and take your time around the multiple temples.

Planning Your Trip to Cambodia?

With so many amazing things to see and do in Cambodia (and Siem Reap), a small group tour is the best way to see it all. It’s affordable, fun, fully planned and organized, and an amazing way to meet life-long friends on the Cambodian adventure of a lifetime.

If you’d rather plan your Cambodian adventure on your own, you can book your bus tickets via 12GO and some fun activities here. However you should keep in mind that night bus journeys come with a risk – I got money stolen when I was traveling on my own in Cambodia. Thankfully, I was traveling with a small group for the rest of my time in Cambodia – which was smooth and easy!

About Melissa Giroux

Melissa Giroux founded abrokenbackpack.com in 2015 and has been living abroad since 2014. Originally from Canada, she has embraced a digital nomad lifestyle, working online from various destinations worldwide. Melissa is passionate about travel, technology, entrepreneurship, and CrossFit. Her extensive travels have taken her across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. Currently, she resides in Thailand.


☑ Book your flight: Who said you won’t be able to find cheap flights? My top saving tip is flexibility. If you're flexible, you should be able to find a cheaper flight. Check out Skyscanner or Google Flights for the hottest deals.

☑ Book your accommodation: Want the comfort of being at home or the luxury of a hotel? I love using Vrbo and Booking.com for those very reasons. If you're a solo traveler, Hostelworld offers a wide variety of hostels you should take a look at. Alternatively, if you're a budget traveler, sign up for Worldpackers to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work.

☑ Rent a car or an RV: Make your trip more comfortable by renting a car with DiscoverCars.com. This website allows you to compare car rentals around the world. If you're traveling in the United States, find an RV rental on RVshare.

☑ Stay safe: Travel mishaps happen – so, better be safe than sorry by covering your back with travel medical insurance. I would suggest SafetyWing, Genki or Heymondo as they offer the best rates, especially for long-term travelers.

☑ Pack the essentials: Universal charger, check; power bank, check; passport, check! What else could you forget? I've put together this ultimate packing list just for you!

☑ Do you need a visa? If you aren't sure if you need a visa, it’s highly recommended for you to double-check. You can use iVisa - it's super useful and easy to use.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.