Cambodia is a fantastic place for those who love exploring markets and trying local food. The country’s bustling markets offer a feast for the senses, with colorful stalls, fragrant herbs, and traditional crafts. Among the best ways to dive into Cambodian culture are shopping and market tours, which combine tasting, shopping, and learning. We particularly love the Morning Foodie & Market Tour by Vespa for its local flair, and the Private Cooking Class with Market Visit for a more intimate culinary experience. These tours give you a real taste of everyday life in Cambodia and are perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
If you’re planning your trip, our top picks cover a range of tastes and budgets, from lively evening markets to guided cooking classes. Whether you want to explore with a Vespa, learn traditional recipes, or stroll through local markets, Cambodia’s vibrant food scene and crafts await.
1. Siem Reap: Evening Market Tour and Cooking Class
This tour offers a delightful mix of local market exploration and hands-on cooking. You’ll start by wandering through a lively evening market, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of Cambodian street food stalls. Then, with a professional chef guiding you, you’ll learn to prepare 3 authentic Khmer dishes in an open-air kitchen. This experience is unique because it combines culinary education, culture, and a relaxed setting. After cooking, you’ll enjoy your homemade dinner under the stars, a perfect way to end the evening.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic Khmer flavors and the peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds. The price is very reasonable at $28 per person, making it an excellent value for a local culinary experience. While reviews are not listed, similar tours often receive praise for the friendly guides and the chance to learn new skills.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a relaxed, affordable evening of market strolling and cooking with plenty of opportunities to learn about Cambodian ingredients and eat under the stars.
$28 per person
2. Siem Reap Khmer Cooking Class and Local Market Tour
For around $39 per person, this tour combines a hands-on cooking class with exploring a local village market. Guided by a local family, you’ll visit a traditional market, learn about ingredients used in Khmer cuisine, and then participate in preparing authentic dishes with regional flavors. The experience is deeply cultural, offering insight into Cambodian culinary traditions and the daily life of local families.
The tour lasts about 4 hours, and the itinerary includes a market visit, cooking sessions, and a homemade lunch in the family’s home. The reviews mention how engaging and authentic the experience feels, with visitors appreciating the chance to learn directly from locals. The guide’s friendly approach and the opportunity to taste home-cooked Khmer meals make this a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich experience that combines market shopping, cooking skills, and a warm local atmosphere.
$39 per person
3. Siem Reap: Morning Foodie & Market Tour by Vespa
Starting your day on a Vespa may sound unconventional, but on the Morning Foodie & Market Tour, it’s the perfect way to cover a lot of ground quickly. For $59 per person, you’ll explore local markets and hidden food spots with a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes breakfast at a traditional restaurant, visits to old markets, and sampling regional delicacies such as Banh Chok, Cambodia’s beloved rice noodle dish.
This tour is distinctive thanks to its Vespa ride, which adds an element of fun and intimacy. The guide is praised for their knowledge, and the small group size makes the experience personalized. Highlights include tasting Cambodian coffee in back alleys and relaxing in the Royal Independence Gardens. One reviewer shared, “Lyna was perfect, explaining Cambodia’s history and culture along with the food,” emphasizing the tour’s engaging nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for early risers and foodies who want an energetic, fun-filled morning exploring Siem Reap’s culinary scene with a local expert.
$59 per person
4. Siem Reap: Private Cooking Class with Market Visit
This private experience offers a more personalized take on Cambodian cuisine, priced at $65 per person. Over about 3.5 hours, you’ll visit a local market where you’ll learn about ingredients and their cultural importance, then participate in a hands-on cooking class. The instructor will teach you techniques like stir-frying and balancing flavors in curries, focusing on traditional methods.
What sets this tour apart is its private setting, making it ideal for couples or small groups who want a tailored experience. The guide’s attention to detail ensures you leave with skills you can use back home. Guests often praise the quality of the instruction and the chance to master Khmer dishes in an intimate environment. The reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the high-quality, authentic ingredients used.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culinary enthusiasts seeking an in-depth, customized cooking experience in a private setting.
$65 per person
How to Choose the Right Market & Shopping Tour in Cambodia
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, interest level, and desired experience. If you’re after an inexpensive, relaxed evening, the Evening Market Tour and Cooking Class offers great value. For a deep dive into Khmer cuisine with a local family, the Khmer Cooking Class and Market Tour provides a richer cultural experience. If you’re excited about morning adventures on a Vespa, then the Morning Foodie & Market Tour gives a lively, fun way to start your day.
Those interested in customized, private lessons will find the Private Cooking Class with Market Visit perfect, especially if they value personalized attention.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons from November to February, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Cambodia’s markets are more than just shopping spots—they’re gateways to understanding local life through food and crafts. For a balanced mix of cultural insight, culinary skills, and fun, options like the Morning Foodie Vespa Tour and the Private Cooking Class stand out. Budget travelers will appreciate the affordable evening market and cooking combo, while foodies seeking a personalized experience will find the private class well worth the splurge.
No matter which tour you choose, Cambodia’s markets promise authentic experiences that will leave your taste buds— and your Instagram—full of wonderful memories. Booking early can help ensure you get the best time slots to enjoy these vibrant, flavorful adventures.