Siem Reap is more than just the gateway to Angkor Wat. Its lively streets, markets, and colonial architecture make it a fantastic place to explore on foot, by bike, or even with a tuk-tuk. We particularly love the Siem Reap: City Walking Tour (click here) for its perfect introduction to the city’s highlights, including the Royal Residence and Pub Street. This tour is ideal if you want a quick, friendly overview with local insights. For those with more time and a love of ancient architecture, the Angkor Wat Sunrise & Ancient City Discovery (click here) offers an unforgettable morning watching the sunrise over Angkor Wat, combined with visits to Bayon, Preah Khan, and more—best for early risers and history lovers.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best city tours in Siem Reap, each with its own unique flavor. Whether you want an easy walk, a cycling adventure, or a private city exploration, there’s something here for every traveler.
1. Siem Reap: City Walking Tour
This guided 2-hour walking tour (see details here) is a fantastic way to get your bearings. For just $6 per person, you’ll visit the Royal Residence, explore the pagoda with the reclining Buddha, stroll through the Royal Gardens, and wander the central market. The small group or private format makes it easy to ask questions and get local tips, especially about Pub Street’s nightlife. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and passion—”Tes was informative, knowledgeable and clearly passionate about Siem Reap.” Perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic taste of the city. Bottom line: a straightforward, budget-friendly way to start your trip.
2. Angkor Wat Sunrise & Ancient City Discovery
For around $70, this 9-hour cycling tour (click here) combines the magic of sunrise over Angkor Wat with visits to other major temples like Bayon, Preah Khan, and Tapron. Bike rentals, helmets, water, breakfast, and lunch are included, making it excellent value. The highlight is watching the sunrise from the North pool, a sacred moment for many travelers. The tour guides are fluent in English, and the biking trail takes you through lush rainforest and quiet temple ruins, away from crowds. Guests rave about the experience, saying it’s “an amazing discovery” that combines adventure with culture. Best suited for active travelers who want a memorable start to their Angkor exploration.
3. Siem Reap City Hidden Gems (Private Guided Tour)
This 3 to 4-hour private tour (see more) takes you beyond the temples to explore Siem Reap’s lesser-known sides. For $39, you’ll visit a 10th-century temple, the old royal residence, and a monastery where monks live and pray. Your guide will help you understand local religious practices and culture, and you’ll experience a local market filled with snacks and desserts. Reviewers love how this tour reveals a different side of Siem Reap, “very informative and friendly,” and appreciate the chance to see the city through local eyes. Best for travelers interested in authentic cultural experiences away from tourist crowds.
4. Siem Reap City to Siem Reap Angkor Airport by Shuttle Bus
This shared shuttle service (details here) costs about $17 and takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s perfect for the budget-conscious or anyone wanting a hassle-free, pre-booked transfer to the airport. Drivers speak English, and the service includes all tolls, taxes, and a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle. Travelers value the punctuality and comfort—one reviewer noted, “Phearom was an excellent driver, and the hour drive didn’t feel like one.” It’s a straightforward option to skip last-minute taxi stress, especially after a long day of touring.
5. Private Airport Transfer: Siem Reap Angkor (SAI) – City Hotels
For $25 per group, this private transfer (see details here) ensures a smooth arrival or departure. Your driver will meet you at Siem Reap Airport with a smile, help with your luggage, and deliver you directly to your hotel. Time-wise, it takes about 45 minutes, and the service includes all taxes and fees. Guests appreciate the friendly drivers and the peace of mind of a guaranteed ride. Ideal for travelers wanting reliable, personalized service without the hassle of public transport.
6. Siem Reap City Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour walking tour (see more) is perfect for a quick, casual glance at Siem Reap’s core sights. At $6 per person, you’ll visit the Royal Residence, Pub Street, Wat Preah Prom Rath, Kandal Village, the Old Market, and the Made in Cambodia Market. The tour is flexible with multiple departure times and is suitable for all ages. Reviewers highlight how it’s a “great tour to orient yourself” with friendly guides. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but want to pick up local tips, shopping insights, and a feel for the town’s vibe.
7. One Way Airport Transfer to or from Siem Reap City
Costing $30, this private transfer (details here) is a convenient option if you’re arriving or leaving Siem Reap. It takes about an hour and ensures a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with an English-speaking driver. Perfect for those who want to avoid last-minute taxi haggling and prefer a smooth door-to-door service. One traveler said, “We were transferred in a very nice car with air con and given cold water—nothing went wrong.”
8. Siem Reap Morning City Bike Tour
For travelers seeking a mix of city and countryside, this 5-hour morning bike tour (check it out) is a hit at $45 per person. You’ll pedal through local villages, visit a rural Buddhist temple, see artisans at work, and learn about Khmer life. Snacks, water, and a traditional lunch are included. Highlights include tasting rice wine at a rural distillery, visiting the West Baray reservoir, and discovering Cambodia’s craft traditions. Reviewers call it “a great way to see the countryside and learn about local trades”—best suited for active travelers with an open mind.
9. Siem Reap City Tour with War Museum and Killing Field
This 5-hour tour (see details here) combines history and memory. For $47, you visit the War Museum, which displays tanks, helicopters, and stories of Cambodia’s conflicts. Then, you pay respects at the Killing Fields—an sobering reminder of the Khmer Rouge atrocities. The tour also includes a visit to Artisans Angkor and the Old Market. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the respectful approach, considering it a meaningful way to understand Cambodia’s recent past. It’s ideal for history buffs and reflective travelers.
10. Siem Reap City Tour
This full-day private tuk-tuk tour (click here) at about $37 offers a personalized exploration of Siem Reap. You’ll visit Wat Thmey, the War Museum, the old market, and a local artisan workshop. It’s perfect for those wanting a flexible, relaxed day. The guide provides detailed stories about Cambodia’s history and culture, and the tuk-tuk makes it easy to cover many sights comfortably. Ideal for travelers who enjoy casual, in-depth city touring with a local guide.
11. Full-Day Private Tour in Lost City & Angkor Wat from Siem Reap
This 8-hour tour (see more) is a comprehensive deep dive into Angkor’s lesser-visited temples and the main sights. At $30 per person, your expert guide shows you Angkor Wat from the eastern side, explores the Jungle’s secret paths, and visits Angkor Thom. The focus on fewer crowds and detailed storytelling makes this a top pick for those wanting an intimate experience. Reviewers highlight the flexibility and depth of knowledge, making it perfect for serious history enthusiasts.
12. Full-Day Private Tour with Sunrise in Lost City & Angkor Wat from Siem Reap
This 8-hour tour (more info) is designed for early risers. Starting before dawn, you watch sunrise from Angkor Wat’s upper terraces, then explore the temple’s central chambers. After breakfast, visit the South Gate and other key sites. It costs $36 and includes a knowledgeable guide. Travelers appreciate the chance to see Angkor at its most beautiful and quiet hours. It’s a rewarding experience for photography buffs and those wanting to beat the crowds.
13. Siem Reap Angkor Airport to Siem Reap City by Shuttle Bus
Similar to the earlier shuttle, this shared bus (details) offers reliable transport at $17. and takes about an hour. It’s perfect for quick arrivals or departures, especially on busy days or public holidays. The driver is friendly, speaks English, and the service includes all taxes. Travelers say it’s “super stress-free,” making it a smart choice after long flights or before catching a flight.
14. Angkor Wat Bayon and Ta Prohm with a short walk to ancient city
This 5-7 hour tour (see more) hits three major temples: Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm. For $50, you get inside visits with local guides explaining the history of each site. It’s a good choice if you want a condensed, focused experience that hits the iconic highlights of Angkor’s “small circuit.” Reviewers note Dan’s storytelling as a highlight, and the temples’ iconic faces and tree roots are a photographer’s dream.
15. Private Taxi Transfer From Siem Reap – Battambang City
If you’re heading from Siem Reap to Battambang, this private taxi (details) at $40.54 offers a comfortable 3-4 hour ride. Experienced drivers will share stories about Cambodia’s countryside along the way, and reviews highlight safety, professionalism, and smooth rides. Ideal for those wanting a private, relaxed transfer with personalized service.
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Siem Reap
When selecting your tour, consider your budget and interests. If you’re after a quick overview, the Siem Reap: City Walking Tour (see here) provides an affordable intro. For a deeper look at Angkor, the Sunrise & Ancient City Discovery (click here) offers an active morning with a memorable sunrise. History buffs might prefer the War Museum and Killing Field tour (see it here), while travelers wanting a relaxed day can opt for a private tuk-tuk (see here).
Think about physical activity—cycling tours suit active travelers, whereas walking or tuk-tuk tours work well for those who prefer a slower pace. Also, check your timing—early morning tours like the sunrise trip are best for photography, while afternoon tours can focus on markets and city life.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season from November to February, when tours fill up quickly. Consider combining a few options: start with a walking tour to get your bearings, then perhaps a cycling adventure or a private city tour to dive deeper.
Final Thoughts
Siem Reap offers a wide range of city experiences, from casual walks to comprehensive private explorations. For a quick but meaningful overview, the Siem Reap: City Walking Tour is hard to beat, especially at just $6. For those wanting a full immersion, the Full-Day Tours in Angkor provide unmatched depth and memorable sights. Active travelers will appreciate the bike tours, while history enthusiasts will find the War Museum and Killing Fields deeply moving.
Whatever your style, booking your tour in advance ensures you won’t miss out—this city is too fascinating to see in a rush. Take your pick based on your interests and energy level, and you’ll leave Siem Reap with stories and images to last a lifetime.