Unlock the Magic of Siem Reap, Cambodia: Top 10 Not-to-Miss Attractions

Anju Chandna
Jun 26, 2025
3 min read

Updated: May 12

Siem Reap, the capital of Siem Reap Province in Cambodia, also known as the 'Gateway to the Angkor Temples', is home to the world-renowned Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We had 3 full days at our disposal, and in this blog, I have shortlisted my Top 10 not-to-miss attractions in Siem Reap, Cambodia, which could help you plan your vacation in this charming city.

A visit to this vibrant resort town is a unique experience. You will see tourists everywhere, jostling around the famous attractions, hopping from one attraction to another with eager anticipation.

What struck me most about this city is that, despite being extremely touristy, it has managed to avoid the madness that excessive tourism brings.

There is a calm vibrance in the city, and the people are very polite, warm, and welcoming. This warmth and humility translate into an overall enriching experience that adds to the allure of these world-famous temples.

Top 10 Not-to-Miss Attractions in Siem Reap, Cambodia

01 Angkor Wat

The world's largest religious structure beckons visitors from all over the world. A lot has been written already about this architectural marvel, but I'm sure this temple greets everyone differently.

For me, Angkor Wat was full of wonder and awe at the sheer perfection of its architecture.

From ticket tips to temple routes and important visitor advice, you will find my complete experience in this detailed Angkor Wat memoir....

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-at-the-enigmatic-angkor-wat

Tourists explore Angkor Wat under a clear blue sky. The ancient temple's intricate stonework is set against a backdrop of lush greenery.

02 Angkor Thom

Ancient stone temple with intricate carvings. People climb stairs under a clear sky and palm tree, evoking a sense of exploration.

Around 10 km from Angkor Wat is Angkor Thom, or the 'Great City'. Established in the 12th century, this was the capital of the mighty Khmer Empire and an attraction that will leave you bedazzled.

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/angkor-thom-the-ancient-great-city-of-the-khmer-empire-in-cambodia

03 Bayon Temple

Stone temple with large carved faces on towers, weathered texture, and ancient architecture.

Located in the heart of the ancient city of Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple features a variety of visages that look down at curious onlookers.

Sharing my experience at the 'Face Temple'

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bayon-temple-the-temple-with-the-giant-stone-faces

04 Ta Prohm Temple

Ta Prohm was the shooting location of the 2001 Angelina Jolie film Tomb Raider, earning it the nickname 'Tomb Raider Temple'.

You cannot leave Siem Reap without visiting this wonderful temple...

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/ta-prohm-the-tree-temple-in-siem-reap

Standing with my husband at the entrance of an ancient stone temple with intricate carvings and a massive tree entwined around it.

05 Banteay Srei Temple

Banteay Srei Temple with very intricate carvings and beautiful architecture

This is the only Hindu temple in the Angkor group of temples and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The intricate carvings on the exteriors of this temple are considered to be the finest example of Angkorian art.

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/banteay-srei-the-jewel-in-the-crown-of-angkorian-art

06 Watching an Apsara Dance Performance

The mesmerising traditional Cambodian dance form should be on your must-see attraction list.

In 2008, Apsara Dance was recognised as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/apsara-dance-the-dance-of-the-celestial-beauties

Apsara dancers in traditional costumes perform on stage at the Royal Theatre Restaurant

07 Spend an Evening at the Pub Street

Siem Reap is not just about temples; it also boasts a vibrant nightlife at the famous Pub Street. The street is full of life. If you have just an evening in Siem Reap, then spending it in Pub Street is a great idea.

Night scene at the Pub Street and a bustling street atmosphere.

Pub Street is known for its loud music and excellent eateries and pubs. Across the road, from Pub Street, is the Riverside Night Market, a flea market where you can shop till you drop.

08 Kulen National Park

About 30 kilometres from Angkor Archaeological Park, located within the Phnom Kulen Mountain Massif, is Kulen National Park.

The park is a natural wonder and a great way to spend a leisurely day, after an intense day of sightseeing and visiting temples.

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-at-kulen-national-park-siem-reap

09 Phare Cambodian Circus

The Phare Cambodian Circus is a unique blend of theatre, music, dance, and circus acrobatics, delivering a one-hour riveting show accompanied by an energetic live band. But that's not all...there's more to this amazing Cambodian circus!

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/phare-the-cambodian-circus-in-siem-reap

Acrobats performing at the Phare Circus in Siem Reap

10 Enjoying a Tuk-Tuk Ride

The adorable tuk-tuk ride is a fun way to see the city of Siem Reap. Tuk-tuk drivers double up as travel guides if you want them to; they'll click pictures for you and pose in them too.

They are easy to hire via the Grab app and are very economical compared to cabs.

I'd go so far as to say that your trip to Siem Reap would be incomplete without embarking on a tuk-tuk ride.

These are the Top 10 things that made our Siem Reap vacation memorable.

Should you also visit this beautiful town, I'd love to hear your comments and feedback.

Our next destination was Phnom Penh. Learn more about our 3-day itinerary in the Cambodian capital

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/phnom-penh-top-ten-attractions-in-the-cambodian-capital