Siem Reap has always been highlighted as one of the best places to visit in Asia, with the majestic Angkor Wat temple being at the forefront. But there’s so much more to destination Siem Reap that can be explored beyond the usual.

It’s a good thing there are more flights going into Siem Reap now, which means more chances to see what else this beautiful city has to offer. Add to that the fact that this is the perfect season to roam around, knowing that the rainy season is over and everything is in full bloom.

Here are some of the other places you need to add to your list on your next visit to Siem Reap:

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Witness the Cambodian contemporary arts scene up close by watching Phare, The Cambodian Circus. More than just the usual acrobatic fanfare you’ve come to expect from a regular circus, Phare highlights stories from Cambodian history as well as the modern-day life of the locals.

The beautifully choreographed show also supports a number of local causes, which means that watching the show allows you to help these causes as well.

Apsara Dance Show

The Apsara Dance Show is yet another way to learn about Cambodia’s history and culture, this time focusing on the Khmer civilization.

To give the experience an even deeper Cambodian vibe, tickets include pick-up from your hotel via tuk-tuk, the 3-wheeled rickshaws used by locals to move around the city. It also includes a feast that features authentic Khmer food served buffet style.

Floating Village Tours

Resilience is one trait the Cambodians have strongly displayed given their history, and the floating villages are proof of that.

Because of the regular rise and fall of water in the Tonle Sap Lake year after year, the locals who earn their living in and around this body of water chose to live in floating homes and build their businesses in floating stores. This allows them to carry on regardless of the season.

There are different tours available that allow visitors to observe how living in a body water is possible. Some tours also include trips to mangrove areas and other nearby places of interest.

Countryside Bike Tour

Mornings in Siem Reap are beautiful, especially when experienced around the countryside, where you can witness rural life at its best. What better way to witness the start of everyone’s day than by taking a countryside bike tour?

Aside from experiencing the fresh air around back roads that regular vehicles won’t be able to access, bike tours around the countryside also include visits to wine distilleries, outdoor markets, and other relevant parts of a local’s daily life.

Not a fan of bicycles? You can choose to take a quad bike tour instead. 

Foodie Vespa Tour

Amazing food and fresh Cambodian air? Yes, please! Imagine jumping from one foodie spot to another on the back of a classic Vespa. This is the kind of rush that the adventurer in you shouldn’t miss.

Every dish is authentic, served in hidden alleyways and street stalls that you won’t see in any regular travel book. You might even get the chance to experience cooking a dish or two yourself.

Cambodian Cooking Class

Food is one of the best things to experience while in Siem Reap, and taking a class that allows you to take the distinct Cambodian flavor home is definitely a must. 

In this Cambodian Cooking Class, visit small households that harvest their own herbs and vegetables that give local dishes a distinct taste. Then, have a local chef show you how to prepare and cook some local favorites that you can easily reproduce. These classes are hands on, making sure that you’d be able to immerse yourself in the experience.

Once all the dishes are done, you can grab some ice-cold beer or soda and enjoy the meals you prepared.

Pottery Class

Did you know that Siem Reap is the best place to go for traditional Cambodian ceramics? For centuries, artisans in Siem Reap have showcased the local culture through pottery, something that you could also learn by taking pottery classes.

Using Cambodian clay and traditional Khmer ornaments, you can get behind the pottery wheel yourself and create your own works of art under the guidance of local experts.

Angkor Eye Ferris Wheel

Part of Siem Reap’s beauty comes from the contrast of the bustling city and the quiet countryside surrounding it. All these can be best observed from a high vantage point, something that the Angkor Eye Ferris Wheel offers.

An 18-minute experience, you can see the beauty of Siem Reap 85-meters above ground. From the top, you can also see the Angkor Wat, Kulen Mountain, and other notable spots from a distance.

Roam around Downtown Siem Reap

Downtown Siem Reap is a treasure trove of great finds and unique experiences. Walking around Kandal Village gives you access to art galleries and chic boutiques. The colonial-style architecture sets a unique contrast against the greenery around the area, showing you a different feel to Siem Reap. 

Come nighttime, you can head to Pub Street where you’ll see a wide array of bars and restaurants and experience what Cambodian nightlife has to offer.

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Interested in more unique Siem Reap experiences? You can get more tips from our friendly staff at the Aviary Hotel.