Curator’s statement
I went to Siem Reap expecting it to be a place you simply pass through—somewhere to fill the gaps between visits to the temples. But that assumption didn’t last long. From the moment I arrived at the new airport (opened in 2023) and made the drive into town—along a smooth, newly built road that opens onto a wide, welcoming boulevard—it was clear I’d misjudged it. Siem Reap is a destination in its own right: charming, walkable, impressively clean, and increasingly mindful of sustainability, with an evolving food scene, thoughtful wellness offerings, and locals who greet you with genuine warmth. It’s also a place where boutique and luxury hotels truly shine—intimate, design-forward stays and serene resorts that feel like destinations in themselves, you will want to slow down and linger. On that first trip, however, I didn’t give the town the time it deserved. If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: Don’t treat Siem Reap as a stopover. Give it the time it deserves—ideally five to seven days—and you may find, as I did, that the moments between the temples become just as memorable as the temples themselves.
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Things to do in Siem Reap
Siem Reap provides visitors with relaxation as well as the opportunity to engage with the vibrant local culture. You will find options to support community initiatives — rounding out your visit beyond the magical temples of Angkor Wat. Wander the tree-lined streets and explore, indulge in a spa treatment (enough choice to try something different every day), take a cooking class, or try one of these highlights below.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus
A high-energy performance combining acrobatics, theater, art and live music to tell Cambodian stories. Run by a social enterprise, it provides education and career opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Book ahead, arrive early to enjoy food stands, check out crafts and learn more about the school. A short tuk-tuk ride away, your driver will be there waiting when the show finishes to take you back to your hotel or local watering hole.
Seeing Hands Massage
Multiple locations across Cambodia with massage services provided by visually impaired therapists. Offering high-quality treatments while empowering individuals with disabilities through sustainable employment.
Siem Reap night markets
Lively, vibrant markets showcase handmade arts, crafts, clothing, street food and souvenirs. Many vendors support local artisans and promote fair-trade practices, ensuring that profits benefit Cambodian communities. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, and this is where you can pick up temple-appropriate and Instagram photo-worthy clothing.
Places to eat & drink in Siem Reap
Breakfast at Park Hyatt
Even if you aren't staying here, make a reservation to enjoy their buffet and à la carte breakfast around in the courtyard listening to gentle live music. Of the bright, fresh Western and Khmer options, my favorites were the shrimp omelette, their take on French toast, and lot char (fried rice noodle with beef, fried egg, bean sprouts, and chives). Before you leave, make sure to check out the local artisans that set up each morning around the banyan tree.
Paris Bakery
Perfect if you (like me) crave an authentic croissant, pan au chocolat, or even a green smoothie. Pro tip: Stop by before close the night before and you can ask to pre-order for pickup before their official open the next day if you are heading to the temples for sunrise.
Wild
Reinventing the spring roll (nothing like what I grew up with in the Western world!), offering fresh, delicately fried or sweet options, and craft cocktails in a relaxing garden setting. I tried the delicious and rave-worthy Monsoon Rainbow (salad, avocado, mango, red cabbage, tomato & bell pepper served with mango dipping sauce and spicy peanuts) and the fried Cambodian-style chicken and veggies.
Tevy's Place
Speak to anyone who lives in Siem Reap or recently visited and they're likely to recommend Tevy's. It lives up to the hype. Local, high-quality Khmer food (try the national favorite fish amok, a flavorful coconut curry and one of the fruit smoothies or juices). Tevy's story and commitment to helping her community will inspire you. Vegetarian and Western options are available.
Lum Orng
A farm-to-table restaurant from Cambodian chef Sothea. I had the seven-course chef tasting menu with wine pairing for $65 and enjoyed every mouthful of the visually stunning, fresh, and flavorful dishes. Lum Orng is located about 15 minutes from Siem Reap by tuk-tuk, and both à la carte and three-hour cooking classes are also available. Suitable for a solo (like me!), with a plus one, or as a group, I highly recommend it for a memorable dining highlight (booking required).
Happy hour/sunset cocktails
Try FCC Angkor or cross the river to the rooftop of Palate for fresh cocktails or mocktails—the honey/fresh lime combination is divine—and some truly tasty bar snacks. Or, book the evening river cruise held by the Park Hyatt for cocktails or dinner and sunset—non-hotel guests are welcome.
Need to know
Hot hot hot
Siem Reap is hot, so plan for some downtime mid-afternoon and enjoy some poolside relaxation, a spa treatment, or a nap after an early start exploring the temples.
Temple visits
Consider going against the flow and you could be the first visitor of the day to Ta Phrom. I spent a half hour with the backdrop of the jungle wakening to explore before another visitor arrived and it was truly magical.
Cash & cards
Hotels and many restaurants will accept credit cards with a surcharge, however will get you a better price. USD are accepted, but bring crsip notes without any damage (change will be given in local currency).
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Siem Reap page.