The 15 Most Popular Tours & Experiences In Siem Reap

Siem Reap isn’t just a gateway to the world-famous Angkor Archaeological Park; it’s a city bursting with authentic experiences that go beyond just sightseeing. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, exploring floating villages on Tonle Sap, or learning to cook Khmer dishes in a local home, Siem Reap offers adventures that resonate deeply. We especially love the small-group Sunrise or Sunset Angkor Wat Tour for its intimate experience, and the emotional impact of the Phare Cambodian Circus which combines art, storytelling, and social impact beautifully.

What makes Siem Reap stand out? Its ability to combine ancient temple exploration with vibrant local culture and lively, modern artistic expressions. No matter your style—whether you prefer tranquil mornings at Angkor Wat or lively evenings watching traditional performances—this city covers the map. And with such a wide array of tours, there’s something for every interest and budget.

Quick Overview

Our list includes temple tours like the comprehensive 2-Day Angkor Tour with Sunrise and Sunset, family-friendly experiences such as the floating village boat trip, cultural shows like Phare, the Cambodian Circus, private bespoke adventures, cycling trips, and even a hands-on Khmer cooking class. Below, we break down each experience to help you choose what suits your trip best.

1. Siem Reap: Angkor Wat: Small-Group Sunrise or Sunset Tour

Starting with one of the most iconic sights, this small-group tour offers a chance to witness Angkor Wat at dawn or dusk—an experience almost mandatory for first-timers. For just $15, you’ll get to watch the sun rise over the world’s largest religious monument, capturing perfect photos before the crowds arrive. Your local guide will share insights about Cambodian culture, art, and history, enriching your visit.

What sets this tour apart is its flexibility: choose between a shared group or a private experience. The itinerary also includes visits to Jungle temples like Prohm, Bayon, Angkor Thom, and Banteay Kdei, giving a well-rounded glimpse of the Angkor complex. Reviewers love the intimate atmosphere and the early start, which means fewer travelers and better photo opportunities. This tour is ideal for travelers on a budget who want a meaningful experience with expert guidance.

Bottom Line: A great value and personal choice for those wanting a peaceful, photogenic start or end to their temple day.

2. From Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat

At number 2, the Floating Village Tour is a highlight for anyone eager to see local life along Tonle Sap Lake. For around $20, you will cruise around the floating houses, fish farms, and even a floating hospital—an eye-opening experience that provides insight into the resilience and resourcefulness of Cambodian river communities.

The tour’s real charm is the personal interaction with locals—some of whom invite you into their stilted homes or offer dried mango as a friendly gesture. Most reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to see how people live on the water, especially during the dry season when the landscape is more exposed. The 6-hour trip is perfect either as an afternoon activity after temple visits or a morning escape from the heat.

Bottom Line: Excellent value for a genuine, up-close look at rural Cambodia and its floating communities.

3. Siem Reap: Angkor Wat 2-Day Tour with Sunrise and Sunset

For travelers wanting a deeper dive, the 2-Day Angkor Wat Tour provides comprehensive coverage. Starting with the spectacular sunrise over Angkor Wat, this guided tour covers major sites over two days, including temples like Bayon and Ta Prohm. The itinerary is carefully planned, with enough time at each site to appreciate the details without rushing.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport, which make a long day manageable. The flexible schedule also allows you to enjoy the sunset, completing the experience. At $28 per person, it’s a good investment for those who want to see the highlights efficiently and with expert commentary.

Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors who want a thorough, well-organized introduction to Angkor’s top sights.

4. Siem Reap: Full-Day Angkor Wat Guided Tour with Sunset

This full-day guided tour packs the entire Angkor experience into one 9- to 10-hour day, visiting Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a rundown, wrapped with insightful stories from your guide.

What makes it stand out is the structured itinerary and the opportunity to watch the sunset at Phnom Bakheng—one of the most scenic spots. Guests appreciate the convenience of hotel transfers and the chance to learn about Khmer history from passionate guides. Since it covers many major sites, expect a full, energetic day.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full, immersive day with a reliable guide and a sunset finale.

5. Siem Reap: Angkor Wat Sunrise and Full-Day Sightseeing Tour

At number 5, this Sunrise and Full-Day Tour combines early magic with cultural insight. Starting with the iconic sunrise over Angkor Wat, you’ll then explore key temples like Ta Prohm, Ta Keo, and Bayon, with a knowledgeable guide bringing history alive.

Guests highlight how the early start pays off with fewer crowds, and the day’s pacing allows ample time at each site. The tour also includes breaks and a chance to learn about the ancient Khmer Empire. At just $14, it offers fantastic value with an authentic experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers eager to see Angkor at its most atmospheric and uncover the stories behind the ruins.

6. Siem Reap: Full Day Angkor Wat Temple Experience with Sunset

This 10-hour tour is a comprehensive exploration of Cambodia’s most famous temples. It covers Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm, and concludes with a sunset at Bakheng mountain—arguably the most popular sunset spot.

Reviewers love the detailed guiding and the comfortable transportation. You’ll get to see the smiling faces of Bayon, the overgrown trees of Ta Prohm, and the majestic Angkor Wat, all in one day. It’s priced at $25 per person, which is reasonable considering the scope and inclusions.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers who want a full, guided introduction to Angkor’s main highlights.

7. Siem Reap: Phare, the Cambodian Circus Show Tickets

For a change of pace, don’t miss Phare, the Cambodian Circus. For $18, you’ll see a stunning performance blending acrobatics, dance, and storytelling that reflects Cambodian life, folklore, and recent history. The show is held in an atmospheric tent and is a powerful way to experience Cambodia’s modern cultural scene.

Reviewers find it both entertaining and meaningful, as it supports local artists and social projects. It’s a perfect evening activity, especially after a day of temple touring, and appeals to all ages.

Bottom Line: A memorable, culturally rich experience that combines art with social impact.

8. 2 Days Exclusive Temple Highlights with Sunset and Sunrise Tour

This luxury two-day tour offers comfort and intimacy, perfect for first-timers or those wanting a stress-free experience. The small-group setting and air-conditioned vehicle make temple-hopping more enjoyable.

Key highlights include Pre Rup, Banteay Srei, Neak Pean, Preah Khan, and sunset at Bakheng. Guests praise the professionalism of guides and the seamless logistics. It’s priced at $49, reflecting its premium approach and includes hotel transfers.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized service, and a comprehensive itinerary over two days.

9. Full-Day Banteay Srei & 4 Temples – Grand Tours Join-in Tour

This small-group tour emphasizes intimate exploration of Banteay Srei, Pre Rup, and Ta Som. For $20, it balances affordability with quality, including hotel pickup and round-trip transport.

Guests appreciate the detailed explanations and the chance to see less-visited sites like Ta Som and Neak Pean. The small-group format, limited to 10 people, ensures personalized service and engaging guides. The itinerary offers a good variety without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a deep, personalized look at some of Cambodia’s lesser-known temples.

10. Full-Day Temples of Angkor Small Group Tour

This small-group tour is a favorite for its balance of intimacy and comprehensive coverage. For $19, you’ll explore Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon, and Ta Prohm with a friendly, professional guide.

Guests comment on the value, with many noting the guide’s deep knowledge and the inclusion of hotel pickup. The small-group size guarantees a personal experience and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a straightforward choice for travelers wanting a concise yet detailed visit.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a well-rounded, guided day that stays personal.

11. Angkor Wat: Highlights and Sunrise Guided Tour

This early-morning tour emphasizes the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat, combined with visits to Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Angkor Thom. At $18, it offers excellent value, especially for sunrise enthusiasts.

Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the strategic choice of photo spots. The tour includes transportation and a relaxed pace, making it suitable for travelers who want to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful morning. It’s an ideal choice for sunrise lovers.

Bottom Line: A top pick for early risers wanting the classic Angkor experience in a laid-back style.

12. Siem Reap Private: Sunrise, Bayon, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei

For those wanting exclusivity, this private guided tour is a personalized way to see the highlights in 8-9 hours. At $130 per group, it’s designed for families or small groups of friends.

It covers sunrise at Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Banteay Srei, Bayon, and Angkor Thom South Gate. The private guide ensures undivided attention and flexibility at each site. Reviewers rave about the dedicated service and the ability to customize the experience.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking privacy, flexibility, and personalized storytelling.

13. Siem Reap Countryside Bike Tour / E-Bike or Tuk Tuk

If you prefer a relaxed, active day, the bike tour explores the rural areas around Siem Reap. For $35, you’ll ride through villages, rice paddies, and farms, with round-trip hotel transfers, snacks, and cold water included.

Guests love the chance to see local farms, rice wine distilleries, and lotus farms up close, making it a perfect way to experience Cambodia’s everyday life. The ride is about 25 km, mostly flat, and suitable for most fitness levels. The tour’s emphasis on local livelihoods makes it both fun and educational.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want culture in the Cambodian countryside.

14. Siem Reap: Angkor Sunrise 1- or 2-Day Guided Temples Tour

This flexible one- or two-day tour centers around catching the sunrise at Angkor Wat. It also visits Ta Prohm, Bayon, and Banteay Srei, with a knowledgeable guide to explain the history.

It’s appreciated for the well-paced schedule, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s expertise and the value of seeing the temples during the early hours. The optional second day allows for a more relaxed, thorough exploration. Prices start at $19, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a flexible option focusing on sunrise and key highlights.

15. Siem Reap: Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home

Finally, for those interested in cuisine, the Khmer cooking class offers a hands-on experience inside a local’s home. For $29, you’ll stroll through a market selecting fresh ingredients, then prepare four classic dishes like Fish Amok and Tom Yum.

This class is a delicious and authentic way to get a taste of Cambodian culture. Guests rave about the personal stories shared by the host and the chance to eat what you make. It’s a fun, educational activity that ends with a tasty meal.

Bottom Line: A standout for food lovers who want a genuine, participatory experience.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Siem Reap

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, interest, and physical stamina. For example, if watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat is your top priority, the Sunrise Tour or Sunrise and Full-Day are perfect. For a more intimate, customized experience, look at the private tour.

If you’re traveling with family or want a relaxed pace, the full-day Angkor adventures or 2-day highlights work well. For culture, don’t miss the cooking class or the Circus show.

Booking early is advised, especially for popular time slots like sunrise tours or private guides during peak season from November to February.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re after stunning temple vistas, a peek into local life, or a taste of Cambodian cuisine, Siem Reap offers a remarkable variety of tours and experiences. For those who want to see it all, the 2-Day Tour or the luxury 2-day provide a comprehensive approach. On a tighter schedule or budget? The Sunrise Tour or Full-Day Guided will deliver big experiences for less.

For an authentic taste of Cambodia, the cooking class or the Circus will deepen your understanding of local culture. Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable adventures in Siem Reap.