Siem Reap isn’t just about Angkor Wat—it’s a lively town full of stories, market stalls, colonial charm, and local life. Walking tours here are ideal because the city’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and many tours offer authentic insights you simply can’t get from a tuk-tuk or guidebook. For example, the Siem Reap: City Walking Tour offers a relaxed introduction to both the city’s key sites and hidden corners, with guides passionate about sharing local stories. Meanwhile, a walking tour that combines food, markets, and local villages provides a taste of rural Cambodia alongside city sights. Whether you’re interested in history, markets, or local life, Siem Reap’s walking routes make for memorable days.
Quick Overview:
This list covers a variety of guided walks—from short city introductions to deep temple visits, creative art explorations, and authentic village experiences. Some tours focus on historical landmarks like Angkor Wat or Bayon Temple, while others highlight local markets, neighborhoods, or even cooking classes. We’ve included options with excellent reviews and great value, ensuring you find the right fit. Take a look below to see which tour suits your style and schedule.
1. Siem Reap: City Walking Tour
This lively tour offers a 2-hour journey through Siem Reap’s core, with an affordable price of just $6 per person. Your guide will lead you past the Royal Residence, explore the Royal Gardens, and introduce you to the city’s colonial architecture in Kandal Village. You’ll get insider tips on Pub Street, including its daytime charm and nighttime buzz, plus a visit to the central market for a taste of local life. Guests love this tour as a stress-free way to get oriented, with reviews praising guides like Tea for their storytelling and passion.
Bottom Line: Great for first timers, this tour offers a quick, friendly introduction with plenty of local insights and a chance to see Siem Reap beyond the temples.
2. Siem Reap City Walking Tour
For about $6, this 1.5-hour private tour is a perfect way to discover Siem Reap at your pace, with multiple departure times. You’ll visit the Royal Residence, stroll through Kandal Village, and walk through Wat Preah Prom Rath, the largest pagoda in the city, home to a striking reclining Buddha. You’ll also explore Old Market and Made in Cambodia Market, both lively spots for shopping and soaking in local atmosphere. Reviews mention how friendly and knowledgeable guides like Sai make it a very enjoyable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer an intimate, flexible experience that covers fundamental sights and market life without rushing.
3. Siem Reap Walking Tour: Landmarks & Hidden Gems
At 2.5 hours and $15 per person, this tour takes you beyond the usual tourist spots. Your guide will lead you through hidden streets, local markets, and tranquil pagodas like Yey Tep Shrine. The focus is on uncovering the true feel of Siem Reap—stories behind landmarks like Royal Residence and Yey Tep Shrine add depth to your visit. With only 11 reviews, this tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating, praised for its personalized approach and insider knowledge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to explore lesser-known corners and hear stories that bring the city’s soul to life.
4. Angkor Wat: Tuk Tuk and Walking Tour
This 7-hour adventure combines the best of temple exploration and local transport, with a focus on Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm. For $49, you’ll enjoy guided walks inside the world’s largest religious monument and the jungle-clad Ta Prohm, famous for the giant tree roots wrapped around ancient stones. The tour allows you to skip the crowds with early temple visits and learn about the history of Cambodia’s grand temples. Reviewers like Bob commend their guide’s enthusiasm, though some mention the extensive walking—around 9 miles—may be tiring.
Bottom Line: Suited for history buffs and active travelers wanting an in-depth look at Angkor with the convenience of a tuk-tuk.
5. Angkor Wat Bayon and Ta Prohm with a short walk to ancient city
At $50, this 5- to 7-hour tour covers the main temples of Angkor—Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm—plus a bonus smaller temple. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll explore the iconic faces of Bayon, the tree-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm, and the vastness of Angkor Wat. Reviews highlight guides like Dan for their storytelling and comprehensive knowledge. The tour provides a balanced mix of travel and insight, perfect for those with a focus on Cambodia’s architectural marvels.
Bottom Line: Offers a thorough temple experience with a personal touch, ideal for first-time visitors wanting to maximize temple time.
6. Village walking & Cooking class in Siem Reap
For $45, this 5-hour tour combines village exploration, ox-cart rides, and a hands-on cooking class at a Khmer house. You’ll visit Krobei Riel Village, walk among rice paddies, and learn to prepare authentic dishes with organic ingredients. Finish with a sunset dinner enjoyed in a traditional setting. Reviewers praise the authenticity and local hospitality—”Very good experience, I recommend it to everyone!” sums it up. It’s perfect for travelers eager to connect with rural life and culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: Great for food lovers and those interested in rural Cambodia, offering a full culture.
7. Walk with the Elephants by Cambodiajeep
This 7- to 9-hour tour for $270 takes you on vintage Jeep rides to Kulen Mountain and the Bos Thom Elephant Forest. It’s an unforgettable experience where you see the elephants in their natural habitat and learn about their conservation. After visiting the elephants, you’ll explore the surrounding countryside, rice paddies, and small villages, with plenty of camera-worthy moments. The reviews commend the guide’s knowledge and the chance to feed and bathe elephants—a rare treat. Keep in mind, it’s a long day, suited for dedicated animal lovers.
Bottom Line: An exceptional choice for wildlife enthusiasts wanting an ethical, up-close encounter with elephants amid stunning scenery.
8. Siem Reap: Authentic Eco Village Walk and Cooking Class Tour
At $59, this eco-conscious 6-hour experience combines village eco-walks, traditional cooking, and basket weaving. You’ll learn about organic farming, harvest herbs, and prepare Khmer dishes with local ingredients. The guide will introduce you to the region’s culinary and cultural traditions in a setting that emphasizes sustainability. Reviewers note that it’s a hands-on, authentic experience ideal for environmentally minded travelers wanting more than just sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for eco-aware travelers interested in Cambodian cuisine, rural life, and handmade crafts.
$59 per person
9. Breakfast Walking City Tour
Starting at 8:30 AM for around $33, this walking tour offers a delicious way to start your day. You’ll visit the Royal Residence, enjoy local breakfast dishes, and walk past Grand Hotel d’Angkor and Royal Gardens. The highlight is experiencing Siem Reap’s morning routines—seeing shop owners open their doors and tasting authentic Khmer breakfast foods. The review from a single traveler emphasizes how it’s a relaxed, insightful start to the day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers who want a culinary and cultural introduction to Siem Reap’s morning life.
$33.15 per person
10. Village walking and Cooking class in Siem Reap (second listing)
This 6-hour experience mirrors the previous culinary tour but emphasizes rural village life. You’ll ride ox carts through rice paddies, visit a Khmer home, and enjoy a sunset dinner with local drinks. The focus is on interaction with villagers and learning authentic cooking skills. Reviewers highlight its authenticity and relaxed pace, suitable for travelers seeking immersive cultural activities.
Bottom Line: A wonderful choice for those who want to combine rural exploration with meal preparation in a serene setting.
$45.00 per person
11. (Free eSim) Night Market & Pub Street Night Life Walking Tour
At just $12, this 2-hour evening walk covers the Night Market, Old Market (Psar Chas), and Pub Street. You’ll explore the bustling market stalls and then experience the lively nightlife of Siem Reap. The tour is good for travelers wanting a guided experience of the local evening scene without fuss. One review describes it as “Very knowledgeable about Siem Reap and its history,” making it a handy option for first-time visitors exploring after dark.
Bottom Line: Best suited for night owls and those interested in experiencing Siem Reap’s vibrant nightlife with a guide’s insights.
$12.00 per person
12. Siem Reap: City Walking Tour and Art Gallery Visit
This art-focused walk invites you to discover local galleries and hidden alleys. Although the review score isn’t listed, it promises a blend of history and contemporary creativity. You’ll see works by Cambodian artists and meet some of the creators. It’s suited for travelers interested in Cambodian art scenes and local crafts, offering a different perspective on the city’s modern culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art lovers wanting to explore Siem Reap’s creative side.
13. Kulen Mountain & Walking Tour
This 8-hour tour for $55 takes you to Phnom Kulen, a sacred mountain offering reclining Buddha, waterfalls, and Hindu sites from the 9th century. It combines mountain scenery, historical sites, and rural village walks. The reviews praise the scenery and cultural insights, making it ideal for those looking to mix nature with history without just visiting temples. It’s a full-day tour that suits active travelers eager to see Cambodia’s spiritual and natural highlights.
Bottom Line: For nature and history enthusiasts, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Phnom Kulen.
$55 per person
14. Siem Reap: Baddish Temples and City Walking Guided Tour
At $25 for 3 hours, this tour combines city sights and temple visits, including the largest pagoda and a local market. You’ll explore Hap Guan Street, sip coffee at Tang Mouy, and learn about local crafts. It’s a concise option for travelers wanting a taste of both urban and spiritual sides of Siem Reap, with reviewers noting the guide’s engaging storytelling.
Bottom Line: It’s a balanced, short tour suited for those with limited time but wanting to see both the city and its temples.
$25 per person
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Siem Reap
Picking the right walking tour depends on your interests and time. If you’re after a quick city overview, the Siem Reap: City Walking Tour is affordable and friendly. For temple enthusiasts, the Angkor Wat: Tuk Tuk and Walking Tour offers a comprehensive day. Love local life? Consider the Village walking & Cooking class, or the Eco Village Walk and Cooking. Budget-minded travelers should pick shorter, focused experiences like the City Highlights or evening Night Market. If temples are your main goal, the Landmarks & Hidden Gems or Temple Circuit deliver rich, detailed experiences.
Consider your fitness level—some tours involve a lot of walking or extensive temple exploration. Book early during peak season, especially the popular temple tours, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Siem Reap offers a surprising variety of walking tours that suit different interests and schedules. For those who want a quick orientation, the inexpensive city tours fit the bill, while dedicated temple fans will appreciate the in-depth temple explorations. Foodies and cultural explorers will love the village walks and cooking classes, which bring the local flavor to life.
No matter your choice, these guided walks help you see Siem Reap through local eyes, making your visit more meaningful. To ensure you get the best experience, book your preferred tour well in advance, especially during the busy dry season. From temple ruins to local markets and rural villages, Siem Reap’s walking tours promise to deepen your appreciation of Cambodia’s lively, complex town.