siem reap travel tips

A Beginner's Guide to Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Over two million tourists a year pass through Siem Reap, making it the fastest growing place in Cambodia outside of Phnom Penh , the capital city. With a history dating all the way back to the year 802, visiting Siem Reap is a highlight for many people traveling through Southeast Asia … with a wealth of activities and attractions that go far beyond the ancient ruins down the road.

Things to Do

The temples of Angkor Wat are Siem Reap’s main draw, but did you know there are plenty of other interesting things to do in the general vicinity? From the Angkor National Museum to the Landmine Museum to a hot air balloon ride over the Angkor ruins, you can explore a number of other destinations that help make Siem Reap the most popular tourist destination in Cambodia.

Travel Requirements

There are some  travel requirements  to get to Cambodia. First, you have to take care of the Cambodia visa. Before you can get one, you have to show a passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond the entry date.

Cambodia also offers an easy, online alternative to getting your visa: the Cambodia e-Visa that costs an extra $6 in processing fees but saves you the time and effort that comes with getting a regular Cambodia visa.

Transportation

Once you're in Siem Reap, it's not too challenging to get around the country. Your choice of transportation within Cambodia will depend on the climate, the distance you wish to travel, the time you have, and the money you want to spend. Arrange a taxi with your hotel concierge or book a day trip from a tour company to make it easier on the road.

The winter months from November to February represent the peak travel season for Siem Reap. These months are cool and dry, avoiding the extremes of heat and precipitation you’d find in other times of the year. Weather is crisp at night and just cool in the daytime. A number of festivals also take place during this season.

The temples are at their most beautiful during the rainy season: the grass is green and lush, the air seems clearer (the haze being washed out by the rain). Siem Reap in the rainy season is, weather permitting , a photographer’s favorite time of the year.

In spite of the influx of visitors (and foreign aid), Siem Reap is still part of a conservative society, one rooted in Buddhism and strong (if old-fashioned) values. Cambodians understand that, as outsiders, we may be unfamiliar with their ways, but if you know the basics of etiquette in Cambodia , you’ll go a long way in winning their trust.

If you happen by a Buddhist temple , remember to be respectful and bring a shawl to cover your shoulders. Also, wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off as most temples don't permit you to wear them inside.

“ Orphanage tourism ” in Siem Reap, while popular, should not be encouraged, either with your money or your time. Despite outward appearances, many orphanages are actually for-profit enterprises that needlessly split families apart and play up squalor to attract tourist donations.

Where to Stay

Siem Reap can’t be covered in one day—you’ll need at least three days to cover the huge expanse of the Angkor temples and other attractions in the area. So unless you have a friend in the area with an extra bed, you’ll need to stay at a Siem Reap hotel or hostel while you’re in town. The U.S. dollar goes far in Cambodia, so although there are youth hostels for those on a budget, you can most likely find an affordable high-end hotel for the night at a comparable price.

TripSavvy / Paula Galindo Valle

Visiting the Angkor Temples

The temples in Angkor are Siem Reap’s biggest draw, attracting upwards of two million foreign visitors a year. Despite their age, the temples retain much of the majesty they have had since they were constructed in the 12 th century as the devotional centers of a sprawling Khmer Empire. The Khmer Empire is long gone, but the temples they have left behind are now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a source of awe for many generations of travelers.

History of the Angkor Temples & the Khmer Empire

The Angkor temples are all that of what once was a powerful empire that ruled much of today’s Cambodia and parts of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar.

At first glance, visitors may be entranced by the complex’s lotus-blossom towers, enigmatic Buddha images, and dancing girls (​ apsaras ). Upon closer inspection, you'll realize that the temples are only the visible remnants of an advanced civilization in Southeast Asia, one which depended on—and was undone by—the abundance of water in the area.

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Cambodia Guide: Planning Your Trip

Phnom Penh, Cambodia Guide: Planning Your Trip

Where Is Angkor Wat?

The Top 10 Things to Do in Cambodia

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Visa Requirements for Cambodia

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Vital Information for the First-Time Visitor to Thailand

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Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Siem Reap Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Siem Reap is the main jumping-off point to visit Angkor Wat, the massive ancient temple complex that is Cambodia’s most popular attraction.

The center of the city still feels like a rural old town, with French-style houses and lots of small shops. The area around the old market is crowded with locals and foreigners alike and the main party street is lively all night long.

Other than going to see Angkor Wat , there isn’t much “to do” in the town itself.

While the city has become more popular with expats in recent years (and there’s a much better food scene now too), I personally wouldn’t recommend spending much time here. You can see the main sights in just a day or two.

This Siem Reap travel guide can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cambodia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Siem Reap

1. Explore Angkor Wat

The main reason to come to Siem Reap is to visit the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat. To get away from the crowds in the major temples, visit some of the less-visited sites and at off-peak times (sunset is the busiest time). For more information, see this detailed guide to Angkor Wat .

2. See Banteay Srei

Known as the City of Women, this site was built in dedication to the Hindu God, Shiva. With many outstanding, red sandstone carved statues, Banteay Srei is an astonishing site to visit. You need an Angkor Wat Pass to visit this temple.

3. Celebrate at the Water Festival

If you’re here around the end of October, make a point of staying for the Water Festival. The festival involves a huge boat race and more than a million people flock to watch these boats and the nightly fireworks. The festival begins on the last day of the full moon in October.

4. See Apsara Dancing

Though this can seem like a tourist trap given the number of people offering this to you, the dance is very much a part of modern Khmer culture. There are several places where you can see this style of dancing, but Apsara Theatre is one of the best. It’s about $25 USD for a show with dinner included.

5. Go boating on Tonle Sap Lake

This lake’s ecosystem was integral in keeping the ancient civilizations afloat and it still contributes to Cambodia’s agriculture. There are floating villages on the lake and today the entire area is a UNESCO nature reserve for its incredible biodiversity. You can rent a boat. It’s about $20 USD for a few hours.

Other Things to See and Do in Siem Reap

1. visit the landmine museum.

Landmines have devastated the country, maiming and killing thousands. They still cause destruction today as remaining mines from the Vietnam War (which spilled over into Cambodia) are discovered every year. The Landmine Museum has an in-depth exhibit that is very worthwhile to check out so you can broaden your perspective on their use, their dangers, and what’s being done to remove them. Admission for foreign visitors is $5 USD per person, which includes a guided tour in English. I can’t recommend this museum enough!

2. Shop at the markets

There are several markets to explore in Siem Reap. Phsar Leu is the biggest market and where you can find absolutely anything. Phsar Chas, known as the Old Market, is another main market, with stalls selling everything from prepared food and produce to clothing and souvenirs like wood carvings. One of the more unique markets is the Made in Cambodia Market, which is filled with local artisans making and selling their wares. Then there are also the classic Night Markets that continue well past sundown, offering souvenirs, food, drinks, and everything in between.

3. Ride at Happy Ranch Horse Farm

This ranch offers countryside trail rides by horseback, with rides that last anywhere from 1-4 hours. Wander in and out of the various villages, rice fields, and Buddhist pagodas during sunrise or sunset. It is an awesome adventure. Prices begin at $38 USD for an hour ride.

4. Take a Cambodian cooking class

There’s never a bad time to learn to cook and learning how to make delicious Cambodian food is one of the best souvenirs to bring home with you. Dive into Cambodian cuisine with a 2.5-hour class where you will learn to cook three entire meals — and then eat them at the end! You’ll also get recipe cards at the end so that you can recreate the recipes at home. Class sizes tend to be around 6 people, and prices start around $20 USD per person. Local guesthouses can help arrange a class.

5. See Wat Preah Prom Rath

A “newer” temple within the city, Wat Preah Prom Rath is only 500 years old. There are beautiful reliefs depicting everything from man-eating crocodiles to the ever-tranquil Buddha. Located on the riverside, supposedly, the site of this temple was chosen by a man who landed here while his boat was sinking. Entrance is free but be sure to wear respectful clothing as it is a holy site and place of worship (shoulders and knees covered).

6. Day trip to Koh Ker

For a fun day trip from Siem Reap, head to Koh Ker. Located around 2.5 hours from town, Koh Ker was briefly the capital of the Khmer Empire, and many of the temples here are over 1,000 years old. It’s a massive archeological site located in the jungle, and it sees far fewer tourists than Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. The main temple has seven tiers and looks like it was just discovered in the jungle (most of the buildings in this complex are actually still in the jungle and inaccessible to tourists). There are no public buses that go there (the roads were only paved a few years ago), so you’ll have to arrange transportation via your hostel or hotel.

7. Take a food tour

Traditional Khmer food is delicious and a food tour is the best way to sample this culture’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while also learning about the history and culture behind each dish. Siem Reap Food Tours offers several tours, including morning tours into the market and evening tours perusing food stalls. Tours start from $75 USD and include all food, drinks, and transportation.

8. Hike in Phnom Kulen National Park

Located just 1.5 hours from Siem Reap, this national park is the perfect place to spend a day hiking in the rainforest, with majestic waterfalls, epic viewpoints, and hidden temples in the jungle. Don’t miss Kbal Spean, the River of Thousand Lingas. It’s an archaeological site with intricate rock carvings representing Hindu gods and motifs, located in and around a jungle riverbed. The entire park holds tremendous historical national significance, as it was on this mountain range that King Jayavarman II founded the Khmer Empire in 802 CE. The park entrance fee is $20 USD.

9. Learn at Angkor Center for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB)

This wildlife rehabilitation center is located at the base of the trail to Kbal Spean, so you can easily combine visiting the two. The center rescues and rehabilitates endangered Cambodian wildlife, caring for dozens of species of animals with the hope of releasing them back into the wild. You can learn more about and see the animals on guided tours in English Monday-Saturday. A $3 USD minimum donation is requested.

10. Visit the Angkor National Museum

This museum will help put Angkor Wat in its historical and cultural context, with detailed displays, exhibits, and artifacts. There are many themed halls focusing on the rise of Khmer civilization, the empire’s religion, how Angkor Wat was built and why, ancient Khmer clothing, and even a gallery with 1,000 Buddha statues. It’s a great place to expand your knowledge and understanding of the site. Admission is $12 USD and an additional $3 USD if you want to take photos.

  For more information on other cities in Cambodia, check out these guides:

• Angkor Wat Travel Guide
• Phnom Penh Travel Guide
• Sihanoukville Travel Guide

Siem Reap Travel Costs

Note: Cambodia uses USD. There’s no real need to carry the local currency, Cambodian Riels (KHR), unless you’re paying for really small things on the street. In a growing number of places, especially in the countryside, you might start getting riels back when paying in USD but you can essentially get by using mostly USD here.

Hostel prices – A bed in a dorm with 10-12 beds starts around $3 USD per night while a smaller 4-6 bed dorm costs $6-10 USD per night. For a private double room with an ensuite bathroom, expect to pay $15-25 USD per night.

Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have a swimming pool (some have multiple). None of the hostels include free breakfast or self-catering facilities, but many have a café/restaurant on-site with food available.

Budget hotel prices – You can find basic two-star rooms for as low as $10 USD, but it likely won’t be overly close to the city center and you’ll likely have a fan in your room instead of air-conditioning. Hotels with air-conditioning, hot water, and a TV cost around $13 USD per night for a twin and $16 USD for a double. Hotels with a pool cost closer to $20 per night.

Airbnb is available in the city. Expect to pay at least $25 USD per night for an entire home/apartment.

Average cost of food – Cambodian food is similar to Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Vietnam and Cambodia especially have many dishes in common due to the countries’ shared history of French colonization. For example, the baguette sandwich known as bánh mì in Vietnam is called num pang pâté in Cambodia. Popular Cambodian dishes include num banhchok , a lightly fermented rice noodle dish served for breakfast; amok trei , a fish curry dish; and samlar kako , a hearty soup filled with vegetables, roasted ground rice, and catfish or pork. In general, Cambodian cuisine includes a huge variety of noodle soups, stir-fries, curries, fried rice, and sweets.

Rice and freshwater fish are present in nearly every Cambodian meal. Lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, tamarind, ginger, chili pepper, and kaffir lime are all commonly used spices. Fermented fish paste is another widely used ingredient that adds saltiness and flavor.

Common vegetables include leaf and root vegetables as well as melon, long beans, snow peas, bean sprouts, and eggplant. Dozens of types of fruit are native to Cambodia, with durian being the most infamous. However, there are plenty of less pungent fruits to try, including mangosteen, passionfruit, dragonfruit, and mangoes. Fruit is a popular dessert and snack, either eaten alone or made into a variety of sweets.

You can find rice and noodle dishes for $1.50 USD, and lunch meals at casual restaurants for around $2-3 USD. Even mid-range restaurants for dinner only cost $5-6 USD for traditional Cambodian dishes like fish with rice.

Outdoor markets and street restaurants have dishes for as little as $2 USD. Snacks are even less, around $.50-1 USD. I’d stick to the street food as it’s cheaper and tastes better than the restaurants. There are plenty of good options in the Old Market.

Food around Angkor Wat is more expensive, with a simple meal of traditional amok (like green curry in a coconut) costing around $6-7 USD.

Western food is more expensive. A pizza costs $4 USD, a burger costs $7 USD, and a pasta dish costs $6-8 USD. I’d skip it since it’s usually not that great.

For drinks, a beer costs less than $1 USD, a glass of wine is $3 USD, and a cocktail is $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is $1.75 USD.

If you plan on buying groceries and cooking your own food, expect to spend around $15-20 USD per week for basic groceries like vegetables, rice, and some meat. The food is so delicious and cheap, however, that you might as well eat out as often as you can!

Backpacking Siem Reap Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Siem Reap, expect to spend about $58 USD per day. The vast majority of this budget is the day ticket to Angkor Wat — which is likely the reason you’re in the city. Besides the ticket, this budget gets you a bed in a hostel dorm, food from the street stalls, a few beers, and a shared tuk-tuk (with two other people) around Angkor Wat.

On a mid-range budget of $92 USD, you can stay in a private hostel room or a basic room at a two-star hotel. You can eat at more mid-range local restaurants, enjoy more drinks, and pay for your own driver to and from Angkor Wat. (This budget also covers the daily entry fee for Angkor Wat.)

On a “luxury” budget of $165 USD or more a day, you’ll live the high life! You can stay at a nice hotel with all the amenities (including a pool and A/C), eat out for every meal, drink all you want, get a massage, hire a private taxi to take you around Angkor Wat, and take even more tours (like a guided tour around Angkor Wat or a food tour). This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). Prices are in USD.

Siem Reap Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There really aren’t any big money-saving tips here. Food, accommodation, and transportation are all dirt cheap but, if you really want to pinch some pennies, here are a few tips on how to save extra money in Siem Reap:

• Negotiate with tuk-tuk drivers – Make sure you negotiate the price ahead of time. Moreover, don’t take the first number they give you — it’s inflated. If you’re not sure what price you should be aiming for, ask your hostel/hotel staff in advance. They can usually help you book a trusted driver, as well. The same applies to motorcycle taxis.
• Minimize your drinks – Every drink is a dollar and before you know it, you’ve spent more money on beer than on food and accommodation.
• Work for your room – It’s pretty common to get a job in a hostel in order to stay longer in Siem Reap. If you stay at a hostel and like the vibe, ask if they’ll let you work there. You usually just need to work a few hours per day in exchange for your room.
• Book tours as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you.
• Enjoy cheap(er) beers at happy hour – If you want a night out, catch happy hour for seriously discounted drinks. Many bars on Pub Street (the famous party street in town) offer happy hours.
• Use a water bottle with a purifier – It isn’t safe to drink the tap water in Siem Reap, and although buying bottled water is cheap, it does add up – pick up a LifeStraw , my preferred water bottle with a built-in filter (it’s good for the environment too!)

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Accommodation in Siem Reap is incredibly cheap. Here are my recommended hostels in Siem Reap:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel
• Lub D Cambodia Siem Reap
• Onederz Hostel
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap

How to Get Around Siem Reap

All the main attractions in Siem Reap (other than Angkor Wat) are easily reached on foot, especially in the historical part of the city.

Tuk-tuk – For trips around Siem Reap, tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis should cost around $2 USD for short trips and under $6 USD from the airport into town. Negotiate your fare upfront to ensure you don’t get ripped off.

A day’s hire of a tuk-tuk from the town around the major temples at Angkor Wat and back should cost around $25 USD. Be sure to find some friends to share the ride so your costs are lowered. Naturally, visiting temples further out costs more.

Bicycle – You can rent a bicycle here for less than $5 USD a day. You can find rental shops in the Old Market. Some hotels even have free bicycle rentals.

Taxis – Most of the taxis in Siem Reap don’t have meters, so the cost of your journey will vary. In general, taxis are more expensive than tuk-tuks. A taxi to the airport costs about $7 USD. You can also hire taxis for the day to take you around Angkor Wat, which costs around $35 USD. If you want to get to other temples like Banteay Srei, the cost can be as high as $50 USD per day so I’d stick with a tuk-tuk.

When to Go to Siem Reap

The dry season in Siem Reap is from November to early April, which is generally the best time to visit the city/Angkor Wat. It’s busiest here during December and January when the weather is most pleasant. January is the “coldest” month, with temperatures sometimes dropping to 21°C (70°F), which is a pleasant temperature for exploring.

April can be unbearably hot and extremely humid, with 31°C (88°F) as the average daily high. Angkor Wat won’t be as crowded but spending a full day exploring the temples can be overwhelming in the heat (especially if you’re cycling).

The monsoon season lasts from June through October, but this often just means an hour or two of rain per day. It does make Angkor Wat very muddy, but there will also be very few other tourists around.

How to Stay Safe in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks against tourists are super rare though petty theft can occur, especially in the Old Market and Angkor Wat. Beware of pickpockets and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. Never flash your valuables and always keep your wallet and phone secure and out of reach.

One common scam to be aware of here involves the police. You might be approached by a shady or fake police officer who demands to see your passport. Chances are, you’ll be asked to pay a fine to get it back. Deny the request and tell them the passport is back at your hotel in a safety deposit box.

You may also encounter persistent children trying to sell you stuff, sometimes becoming aggressive if you don’t shop with them. Just walk away from them saying “no thank you,” and eventually they will give up. Keep an eye on them as well as they may be distracting you while someone picks your pocket.

You can read about more common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (never walk home alone at night, never accept drinks from strangers at the bar, etc.).

Avoid dehydration in the heat by making sure you bring lots of water to keep hydrated. Remember that the tap water isn’t safe to drink, so bring a water bottle with a built-in filter.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

If you experience an emergency, dial 119 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Siem Reap Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Siem Reap Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information on Siem Reap and Cambodia? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Cambodia travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

Experiencing Local Cambodian Culture on Bamboo Island

Phnom Penh, I Love You!

The Tragic Death of Phnom Penh’s Lake Area

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Ultimate Siem Reap Travel Guide: 17 Top Things To Do (2024)

• Last updated: February 21, 2024

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About Siem Reap

Siem Reap is the starting point for all tourists wishing to visit the nearby Angkor Wat.

And while Angkor Wat is the city’s main attraction, there are many other things to do in this sprawling city.

We especially liked walking along the river in the shade of the many trees by the path, eating street food, and exploring markets.

There’s a bunch to do in Siem Reap beyond the temples, so read along!

Siem Reap Travel Tips

But first, before we jump into the top things to do in Siem Reap, let’s cover the essentials and tips to help you have a more fun, enjoyable, and safer trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Stay connected with an eSIM

Instantly connect to the internet on your arrival in Cambodia by buying an eSIM package in advance.

> Click here to check Cambodia eSIM packages on Holafly. <

> Click here to check Cambodia eSIM packages on Airalo. <

Book trusted tours

Siem Reap is easy to explore on your own, but if you want a guided experience, you can opt for one of the top-rated Siem Reap tours on Viator or GetYourGuide .

RECOMMENDED TOURS

Get travel insurance

While Siem Reap is a safe destination, we recommend getting travel insurance for any trip outside your country. We highly recommend an insurance package from Heymondo . And as our reader, you get 5% off the price.

We have compiled a Siem Reap Travel Map , which you can refer to when exploring.

Top things to do in Siem Reap

While Siem Reap was only a tiny settlement before the intense Angkor Wat exploration started in the early 20th century, it is now a fully-fledged city, the 2nd biggest in Cambodia, with lots to do in and around it.

1. Visit Angkor Wat

It goes without saying that the top thing to do in Siem Reap is to visit Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous and visited attraction.

Angkor is a spectacular collection of temples, built from the 9th to 15th centuries and officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

And for a good reason, as Angkor Wat is truly a wonder of the world in every sense.

Angkor Archeological Park is open every day from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm , but many temples are open between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm.

The complex grounds are immense, and exploring all the temples around can take days .

Read all about exploring Angkor Wat in our dedicated Angkor Wat Travel Guide. (coming soon)

The entrance ticket to Angkor Archeological Park costs 37 USD for one day, 62 USD for three days, and 72 USD for the seven days pass .

You can buy your Angkor Wat tickets online on the official website of Angkor Enterprise .

There are many different ways to explore Angkor Wat, as you can go around in a tuk-tuk, private car, bicycle, bus, or even on foot if you don’t mind the scorching heat.

No matter which way you choose to go around, make sure to buy your tickets in advance online , so you don’t have to wait in line on your arrival at the site, as the queue at the ticket office can be long . 

We went around on a tuk-tuk with our local driver Lem, and you can easily arrange your tuk-tuk driver in Siem Reap for about 20 – 25 USD per day.

Our driver was great, and we can highly recommend him. He was recommended to us by our friend Jason who has gone with him around Angkor Wat 2 times already.

Contac t Lem Tuk Tuk Siem Reap at +855 78 943 966 (WhatsApp).

You can also book affordable tuk-tuk tours online, like the Small Circuit by TukTuk , the Grand Circuit by TukTuk , or the 3-day by TukTuk .

And while in Angkor Wat, you can also go ziplining! We had no time to go last time, but on our return, we would definitely go. It’s not the craziest zipline experience in the world, but it looks fun!

2. Visit the Phsar Chas Old Market 

While in Siem Reap, you have to visit the Old Market (Psar Chas), which not only caters to tourists but is an actual local market visited by the city’s inhabitants for their daily shopping needs.

Cambodians love buying fresh ingredients as much as possible. So it’s likely that one family visits the market multiple times per day. And since the Old Market in Siem Reap is an all-day market, it’s easy to do so.

The Old Market in Siem Reap is open every day from 6 am to 9 pm .

On Siem Reap’s Old Market, you can find everything you can expect from a South East Asian market.

And what we loved the most about the Old Market is that a few stalls offer freshly made food inside the market.

Not only that, but they also have delicious pastries and snacks, which you can usually only find in markets like this one.

We visited the Old Market many times, but the first time was on a Siem Reap Morning Food Tour , where we explored the various veggies, herbs, and other ingredients used in Khmer Cuisine. (more on that later in the article)

Don’t miss Siem Reap’s Old Market, if not to buy something, then to just look around at all the exciting goods sold.

3. Visit APOPO and the Cambodian Hero Rats

One of the coolest things to do in Siem Reap is to visit the APOPO center , where you can observe how the hero rats help to demine Cambodia, one of the most mine-affected countries in the world .

And the highlight of this 45-minute tour is the chance to hold and pet one of the retired rats .

Note: If you’re afraid of holding a rat, don’t be! They are super cute and love human contact! And if you’re lucky to get the one that climbs on your shoulder, even better!

We feel like they did a great job combining supporting a fantastic project and animal interaction without any abuse. So each visitor helps speed up the demining process and get the chance to hold a rat, which we would otherwise never be able to. Such an excellent idea!

You can watch the demonstration of how a rat finds mines and unexploded ordinance in the field. It’s so cool to see how fast but thorough these rats are.

Fun fact: The rat’s weight is just under 2kg, which is how much weight is needed to trigger most mines, so if they walk over one, they won’t activate it, unlike humans.

We recommend taking about 1 hour from your day in Siem Reap to visit APOPO and learn about one of the most critical projects in Cambodia, the demining that will save hundreds of lives.

The entrance ticket to APOPO is 8 USD per person , and you can take a tuk-tuk there for about 1 USD from downtown.

APOPO Visitor Center in Siem Reap is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm , with the last tour starting at 4:30 pm .

Before coming, we recommend you book your visit in advance, as there are limited spots daily.

Contact APOPO at [email protected] , or better yet, message them on WhatsApp at +855 61799237 (we arranged our visit on WhatsApp).

There’s also a tour we found online that combines a visit to APOPO and the national museum.

4. Go on a food tour

The perfect way to explore Siem Reap’s and Khmer cuisine more in-depth is by joining a food tour that takes you around the different spots in the city, trying various delicious traditional dishes, snacks, and desserts.

We went on the Siem Reap Morning Food Tour by the Urban Forage team, who also run the famous Ultimate Phnom Penh Food Tour .

And we got to try different local Khmer dishes and receive valuable information on the history and culture of the places we passed by.

We highly recommend the Siem Reap Morning Food Tour , and what’s great is that they have a vegan/vegetarian option as well, so it’s suitable for everyone. Yes, in Cambodia, of all places!

5. Visit Siem Reap temples

There’s no shortage of temples in Siem Reap that are not part of the Angkor Wat complex, and while they are not as old or as grand, they are very much worth visiting.

All of Siem Reap’s temples are free to visit, but donations are appreciated.

And since they are all within walking distance from the other spots in the city’s downtown, they’re easy to visit.

The former royal residence of the Cambodian monarchy, Wat Damnak, has a rich and dramatic history.

And when they moved the royal residence away from Wat Damnak, they turned it into a temple, and now it’s home to the important Center for Khmer Studies .

Wat Damnak has no official opening hours, but you can freely walk the grounds between sunrise and sunset.

Wat Bo Pagoda

Built sometime in the 18th century, Wat Bo Pagoda is one of the oldest temples in Siem Reap .

The streets around Wat Bo are full of great coffee shops, restaurants, coworking spaces, and many great places to stay.

We were staying in Nary Villa (with a really nice pool!), two streets up from Wat Bo Pagoda, and were passing it daily on our way to the night market.

Wat Bo, like Wat Damnak, has no official opening hours, but you can freely walk around the grounds between sunrise and sunset.

Wat Preah Prom Rath

Located opposite the river, Wat Preah Prom Rath is a beautiful temple to visit, especially for sunset, when the golden light strikes the details inside the temple.

Wat Preah Prom Rath houses Khmer-style pagodas, some dating back to the 16th century.

You can visit Wat Preah Prom Rath anytime from sunrise to sunset.

6. Walk along the river

Siem Reap’s riverside is a great place to go for a walk or run. And since the trees partially cover the walkway, it luckily offers a bit of shade.

And the riverside is where you can find street food stalls during the evening, starting close to Wat Preah Prom Rath and ending at the roundabout a few minutes down from the Old Market.

7. Eat and drink at the night market

Visit the night markets in Siem Reap and try some delicious food, snacks, and drinks.

We frequently went for some tasty roti with bananas and chocolate on our visits. Click here to find the exact stall we ate roti at.

And we even managed to find a stall that agreed to make us some delicious vegetarian dishes. They made us fried morning glory with garlic, fried rice with veggies, and a mixed cabbage and other veggies dish.

All you have to do is ask because sometimes it’s unclear from the menu if the dishes can be “vegetarianized.” And many can. 👍

And the best thing you can get for a dollar at the stalls at night is all the fantastic drinks like coconut shake, lemon shake, passionfruit juice, and similar. Amazing!

The night markets in Siem Reap start operating in the late afternoon , about 1 hour before sunset, so from about 5 pm until about midnight.

We loved the street food stalls nearby the river the most, as they offered enough space with tables and chairs to enjoy the delicious food.

This was a vast contrast to our favorite SEA night market, Jonker Street Night Market in Malaysia, where you had minimal options for seating.

8. Enjoy an evening at Pub Street

Pub Street is Siem Reap’s center of nightlife , lined with live music bars, cafes, and restaurants with cheap beer, and is open late into the night.

It’s the perfect place if you’re looking for a night out in Siem Reap, as it’s busy and lively.

And you can also get yourself a nice fish pedicure for about 3 USD for 20 minutes with a beer or drink included at the many places on and around Pub Street.

9. Visit the Made in Cambodia Market

If you want to go shopping for some Cambodian-made products rather than the regular factory-made items from China that you can find elsewhere, check the Made in Cambodia Market.

All the products and handicrafts sold on the Made in Cambodia Market are locally made, and many support local initiatives.

The market is not big but offers many different things like jewelry, clothing, creative souvenirs, and paintings.

The Made in Cambodia Market is open every day from mid-day until 8 pm.

We also managed to find some tasty ice cream!

10. Visit Tonle Sap Lake

Siem Reap is only a few kilometers north of Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia and among the most productive fishing lakes in the world.

This vast lake supports Cambodians with their main protein, fish, which is one of the main ingredients of Khmer cuisine. And over half of the fish consumed in Cambodia comes from the Tonle Sap Lake.

Visit the Tonle Sap Lake Floating Villages

There are a few floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, of which the Kampong Phluk Floating Village is the most famous and the most visited.

What’s interesting, though, is that the floating villages don’t always float, as during the dry season, when the water level of Tonle Sap Lake drastically drops, they are like typical villages, and you can walk/cycle through them.

We have mixed feelings about visiting these villages because they get very little from visiting tourists (tour operators are not from there).

Most floating village residents are ethnic Vietnamese who were exiled during Khmer Rouge and later returned, but many are without Vietnamese or Cambodian papers. So they’re currently stateless and have no right to own land or take jobs. That’s why they are living in floating houses.

But they have lived there for generations before, so we hope that they will soon be granted citizenship and that their lives will improve.

Go on a Sunset Dinner Cruise on Tonle Sap Lake

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and delicious dinner or cocktails as you take in the beauty of Cambodia’s largest lake on a sunset cruise.

Visit the Prek Toal Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve

11. visit the angkor national museum.

To learn more about Angkor and Khmer history, visit the Angkor National Museum, which is dedicated to the preservation and education of the culture of the Khmer civilization.

Not only that, but the museum also provides a lot of background information about Buddhism and Hinduism, their symbolism, and architecture.

The museum hosts a great collection of preserved statues, carvings, and art, with signs explaining the meanings. And if you’d like a better insight, get an audio guide.

Angkor National Museum is open every day from 8:30 am to 6 pm , and the ticket costs 12 USD and 5 USD for the audio guide.

It’s worth visiting the Angkor National Museum before you visit the Angkor Wat temples, as you can get a better overview of the complex.

You can buy the tickets on-site or book them online and get a tuk-tuk ride included.

12. Get a massage

After exploring the sites in and around Siem Reap, pamper yourself with a nice massage!

There are plenty of great massage places in the city, and they’re very affordable.

You will do a lot of walking on your Angkor Wat exploration, and getting a foot massage afterward is a lifesaver!

13. Visit Battambang on a day trip

You can also visit Battambang on a day trip from Siem Reap , ride the iconic bamboo train, visit the killing caves, and watch millions of bats coming out of the cave of Phnom Sampov.

While it’s a long day out and about, it’s worth including in your time in Siem Reap.

The bats flying out of the caves at sunset is a fascinating spectacle. And while we haven’t seen it in Battambang, we did see it near Bangkok. You can watch our Thailand Bat Caves YouTube video to see what it looks like.

14. Day trip to Kulen National Park

While there aren’t many waterfalls around Siem Reap, the one worth visiting is the Kulen Waterfall, about 2 hours of drive to the north in the Phnom Kulen National Park.

You can get a tuk-tuk driver to get you there for a half-day or join one of the organized tours that include a few other attractions there, like the reclining Buddha and the river of 1000 lingas.

Among its many highlights is the 1000 Lingas River at Kbal Spean – an archaeological site with incredibly intricate Linga carvings adorning its riverbed.

15. Do a Khmer cuisine cooking class

While you can experience Khmer cuisine by eating at restaurants, the best way to explore Cambodian cuisine is by joining a Khmer Cooking Class .

We highly recommend checking cooking classes in Siem Reap on Cookly , the best platform for finding cooking classes worldwide.

16. Bike around the countryside

Siem Reap’s countryside is beautiful, and you can enjoy it on a bike ride around.

There are many bike shops in the city where you can rent a bicycle for about 5 USD per day.

And there are also plenty of Siem Reap biking tours heading out every day that you can join if you’d like a bit more organized schedule and want to see some things you might not know of yourself.

17. Watch a show at Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Admire the fascinating choreography of Phare, The Cambodian Circus , a musical, acrobatic, and dance spectacle telling unique Cambodian stories.

What’s great about The Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap is that they don’t use any animals in their performances, which we highly support!

The Cambodian Circus is open every day from 5:30 pm , with shows starting at 8 pm .

Other things to do in Siem Reap

Now that you know all the top things to do in and around Siem Reap, we want to show you some other things worth doing if you have extra time.

• Pottery Class
• Cambodian Buddhist Water Blessing
• Cocktail class and liquor tasting

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is in December and January , when it’s dry, you have clear blue skies, and it’s still not too hot.

The months between November and February are the driest and coolest , but they are also the high season and when the biggest crowds are found in Siem Reap and Angkor.

The hottest months in Siem Reap are April and May , when it’s scorching hot, with temperatures regularly over 40 degrees Celsius.

And the wettest months in Siem Reap are September and October , while the monsoon with more frequent rains runs between May and November.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is not a big city, and the downtown attractions are all within walking distance from one another, so anywhere you stay should be fine.

No matter where you stay in Siem Reap, going around on foot or by tuk-tuk is easy.

We stayed in the Wat Bo area of Siem Reap, in the beautiful Nary Villa with a fantastic pool.

Top-rated hotels in Siem Reap

Luxury: Anansaya La Maison

Mid-range: Khmer House Resort

Budget: Long Night Hotel

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Anansaya La Maison

Khmer House Resort

Long Night Hotel

> Click here to find all the top-rated hotels in Siem Reap. <

Where to eat in Siem Reap

You won’t have trouble finding great places to eat in Siem Reap, as there are a lot of local Khmer restaurants and many foreign cuisines like Italian, Mexican, Greek, and more.

We ate a fantastic lunch at the famous Banlle vegetarian restaurant , which we can highly recommend.

For some amazing ice cream, check out Gelato Lab , and if you dare, try the pepper-chocolate one!

And finally, don’t skip the night markets!

How to get to Siem Reap

The fastest way to get to Siem Reap for most travelers is to fly into Siem Reap International Airport.

> Click here to check flight deals from Europe <

> Click here to check flight deals from the United States <

> Click here to check flight deals from Asia <

If you’re arriving by plane, we recommend you book your private airport transfer in advance. But getting a taxi or tuk-tuk at the airport shouldn’t be a problem either, and it will cost you between 10 and 15 USD.

You can get to Siem Reap by bus from Bangkok in about 9 hours and by bus from Phnom Penh in about 6 hours.

But the most comfortable way to get to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh is with a Phnom Penh to Siem Reap Private Car service.

We came to Siem Reap with a VIP bus from Phnom Penh , and it was quite a pleasant journey. Before that, we came to Phnom Penh by bus from Ho Chi Minh City .

How to get around Siem Reap

In Siem Reap’s downtown, you can get around easily on foot, as most attractions are within walking distance from one another.

Otherwise, we highly recommend renting a bicycle or going around with the tuk-tuks.

In Cambodia, you can even call a tuk-tuk on Grab (Asian Uber) and Pass App. Otherwise, just hail down an empty one in the street, and negotiate the price before driving away.

We were staying in the Wat Bo area, and there were always a few tuk-tuks somewhere around in the streets close to us, and it would cost us about 1 USD to get a 10-minute ride to the downtown near Old Market. 

Tuk Tuk is the best way to get around Siem Reap , and we can only dream of having a similar mode of transport elsewhere in the world.

It’s affordable, comfortable, quick, and great for cooling off during the ride.

Of course, if you want the most comfortable way to get around and have air conditioning, then hiring a private car is the best choice.

RECOMMENDED

How many days in Siem Reap is enough?

For most travelers, 3 nights in Siem Reap are enough to see the main temples in the Angkor complex, enjoy a night at the night market and pub street, and go to the lake or waterfall.

The length of your stay in Siem Reap primarily depends on how many days you want to spend exploring the Angkor Archeological Park.

Of course, you can see the highlights of Angkor in a day, but if you want to see more of it, especially at a more relaxed pace, then the three-day ticket is ideal.

Prices in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is generally cheaper than Phnom Penh, but the admission tickets and transport can add up. And in the high season, the hotels have higher prices.

But a few-day visit to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat shouldn’t set you back more than 200 USD per person.

Is Siem Reap a safe destination?

Much like all of Cambodia, Siem Reap is a very safe destination for all travelers .

No matter the general safety situation, we always advise against traveling outside your country without valid travel insurance.

We recommend the following for Cambodia:

• Heymondo (get 5% off as our reader)
• SafetyWing (we currently use this one)

What to pack for your visit to Siem Reap

Siem Reap is always hot, so we highly recommend packing some lighter, breathable clothes and long pants, as you will need them for visiting Angkor temples.

Mosquito repellant

Don’t forget to bring some mosquito repellant (natural if possible) because the Angkor complex is surrounded by a moat, as well as a few lakes where mosquitos breed. And a river runs through Siem Reap, so there are plenty of mosquitos there as well.

Don’t forget to take plenty of sunscreen , as your visit to Siem Reap will involve being in the sun a lot, especially at Angkor. We highly recommend buying a reef-safe sunscreen if you plan to combine your trip to Siem Reap with other destinations like Koh Rong, Kampot, and similar.

Read more: Environmental effects of sunscreen (Wikipedia)

> Click here to see our recommended reef-safe sunscreen <

Reusable water bottle

We highly recommend taking a reusable water bottle so you can refill it with fresh cold water. On your Angkor visit, if you’re taking a tuk-tuk, your driver will likely have cold bottles of water with him. And for us, it was very convenient to just fill our bigger bottle from them and take it with us, as the water stayed cold longer.

Light clothes

Take some light clothes that dry fast for your visit to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

We traveled with our favorite travel clothes from Unbound Merino . The shirts were great as they dried super fast after getting sweaty (which you will), and unlike other clothes, they don’t stink up after one wear, so you can reuse them a lot.

Heads up: Our readers get 10% off Unbound Merino clothing (code: SHIPPEDAWAY). ♥

And lastly, a hat would be a great idea, as again, you will be in the sun often.

Is Siem Reap worth visiting?

Siem Reap is absolutely worth visiting, not only for Angkor Wat and the other temples but for many other fun, exciting things to do.

We enjoyed our visit to Siem Reap and will definitely return on our next Cambodia visit. It’s a cool city that seems to be growing quite nicely.

Looking for more travel guides and travel inspiration?

• Phi Phi Islands
• Saigon (HCMC)
• Kuala Lumpur
• Melaka | Malacca
• Jonker Street Night Market
• Gardens by the Bay, Singapore

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The Ultimate Backpacker’s Guide to Siem Reap on a Budget

Welcome to the ultimate backpacker’s guide to Siem Reap, a place that effortlessly ranks as one of the greatest destinations for backpackers. When I first traveled to Siem Reap, my expectations were modest. As many of us, my interest was the one and only Angkor Wat.

What I discovered was much more: It was an extraordinary world of adventure, culture, and unparalleled beauty. I experienced incredibly friendly locals, a great food scene, and a very special ambiance that every backpacker will love.

This guide is your compass to navigating Siem Reap’s treasures, all based on my own experience.

Most travelers just check out the temples of Angkor and then leave Cambodia behind. However, after having traveled 10 days around Cambodia, I urge you to spend a bit more time in this country and Siem Reap. Stick around for an extra 2-3 days in Siem Reap and you will get so much more out of it.

Guide Index

• Travel Costs: Detailed Breakdown
• Explore Siem Reap: Things to Do

Where to Stay on a Budget

Eating and drinking.

• How to get around
• Best Time to Visit

Backpacking Essentials & Safety Tips

Resources and planning.

Travel Costs & Suggested Budget: Detailed Breakdown

This budget guide aims to help you plan your trip to Siem Reap, offering a blend of cultural experiences, exploration, and insight into daily expenses.

Suggested Budget per person per day

• Middle –  $36
• High – $50+

Detailed Costs

These prices are estimates and can vary based on factors like location, seasonal changes, and personal spending habits. Always check for the most current prices and deals when planning your trip.

Accommodation

• Low – dorm in a Hostel: $9
• Middle – private room in a hostel, budget hotels: $25-35$
• High – Apartments or luxury hotels $45+

Food and Drink

When looking to save money on food, in South East Asia you should rely on street food. This is your best tip to save money on food. In Siem Reap (and Cambodia) there are also bakeries. These are the perfect places to find a snack if you have a sweet tooth.

• Basic meal:   about $2-3 for a simple dish (vegetables/chicken and Rice).
• in Angkor: a simple dish like rice with vegetables or chicken is about $5 in Angkor. Nearby the most famous temples (like Angkor Watt, Bayon) is a bit more expensive.

Western food

• Breakfast: A simple coffee and pastry might cost you $3 to $6. For something more filling, expect to pay $8-$10.
• Casual dining: ranges from $10 to $16.
• Mid-range restaurants: can charge up to $30 per person, not including drinks.
• Low – Coffee on a street stand or local café: $1 to $2
• Middle – Cappuccino or latte in a cafe: $1.5 to $2.5
• High – Specialty coffees or in very touristy areas: $2.5+
• Low – Cheap places on Pub Street or supermarket: Less than $1
• Middle – In the hostel bar or : $2- $4
• High – upscale bars or very touristy areas: $5+

Transportation

Siem Reap lacks public transport, which means you’ll have to use private bus companies, taxis, Grab, Tuk-tuks. Read more about transportation on the how to move around section.

• 1-day pass: $37 (valid for 1 entry during 3 days)
• 3-day pass: $62 (valid for 3 entries during 10 days)
• 7-day pass: $72 (valid for 7 entries during 30 days)
• Museums: the Angkor Museum is a good visit, with an entrance fee of $12. It provides a deep dive into the history of the Angkor sites.
• Tours: there are different tours to add to your Siem Reap experience, from Angkor tours to day trips to fish villages. A Tuk-tuk tour to Angkor, usually lasting about 5 hours, costs around $20. Car tours are also available but at a higher cost. Another option is to rent a bike or a motorbike and become an explorer.

Explore Siem Reap: Things to do

Siem reap’s icons on a budget.

If you go to Siem Reap to visit Angkor, prepare to pay $37 for a day entry ticket. You can buy the ticket on the official website. That way, you’ll receive it directly to your email and you won’t have to queue at the ticket counter.

How Many Days Should You Visit Siem Reap?

For those on a budget, you can see the main temples in just 1 day.

However, if you can, I recommend staying in Siem Reap for 2-3 days. These extra days give you a chance to explore more than just Angkor. And believe me, there is so much to explore.

My perfect itinerary for Angkor

• Bayon Temple: Known as the temple of the faces, it’s famous for its many large stone faces smiling mysteriously.
• Ta Prohm Temple: Made famous in the movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider,” this temple is known for the giant trees growing out of the ruins.
• Angkor Wat: Cambodia’s icon. Although popular for sunrise visits, the weather can be hit or miss. Consider visiting in the afternoon when it’s cooler and less crowded. I found it peaceful around 4:30 pm, perfect for taking photos without many people around.
• Banteay Kdei: A quieter temple that offers a glimpse into the past without the crowds.
• Ta Som: Famous for its nature-overrun backdoor entrance, where a tree surrounds the doorway.
• Phnom Bakheng: Known for its spectacular sunsets. It’s limited to 300 visitors at a time, so make sure to arrive early.
• Banteay Srei: About 35 km from Siem Reap, this temple is renowned for its intricate red sandstone carvings. Worth the drive if you have time.
• Day 3: Take a break from temple-hopping. Visit the Landmine Museum to learn about Cambodia’s recent history. You could also check out the local markets, take a cooking class, or enjoy a day trip to nearby attractions like the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake.

This schedule allows you to experience a mix of historical sites, cultural insights, and the natural beauty surrounding Siem Reap. Plus, it gives you some flexibility to relax.

Ticket Options for Angkor

Every foreigner needs to purchase entrance tickets for Angkor. There is only one type of ticket that is valid for all temples and the entire area. However, you need to choose between how many days you want to visit Angkor:

• One-Day Pass: Perfect for those on a tight schedule or who want a taste of the ancient world. This pass allows you to explore the main temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat, all in a single day. It’s a whirlwind tour, so start early to make the most of it!
• Two-Day Pass : There is no two-day pass available!
• Three-Day Pass: This is the sweet spot for many travelers. Valid for use over 10 days, it gives you the flexibility to explore at a more leisurely pace. You can dive deep into the heart of Angkor Wat, wander through the mystical faces of Bayon, and get lost in the jungle-clad ruins of Ta Prohm with time to spare for the lesser-known temples.
• Seven-Day Pass: For the true explorers and history buffs, this pass is valid for over one month, allowing you to fully go into in the wonders of Angkor. With this pass, you can take your time uncovering hidden gems, revisiting your favorite spots at different times of the day, and soaking in the ancient vibes.

Purchasing Your Ticket:

• Online: Buying your ticket online is highly recommended. It’s the most convenient way to ensure you’re all set for your adventure. Plus, you can avoid the queues and get straight to exploring. You can buy it on the official website and it costs the same as on the ticket counter
• Ticket Office: If you decide to purchase your ticket in person, you can do so at the official ticket office. Just remember, especially if you’re buying a one-day pass, to get there early to maximize your time among the temples.

Important : When visiting the area, there are several checking points. Here you need to stop and show your tickets to be scanned.

Beyond the Temples

Most people visit Siem Reap mainly for the ancient ruins, but there are more fun things to do in Siem Reap. The following activities offer a deeper dive into Cambodian culture, history, and efforts towards a better future, rounding out your Siem Reap adventure with meaningful insights and unforgettable experiences.:

• Pub Street: an interesting place for an evening stroll, offering a variety of bars, massage parlors, and even unusual experiences like a “fish pedicure,” where Garra Rufa fish nibble away your feet dead skin.
• Apsara dance performances: these shows give more insight into Cambodian culture.
• Phare circus: offering an electrifying blend of traditional and modern theatre, comedy, music, dance, and acrobatics. It’s a high-energy performance that tells Cambodian stories in a captivating way. Shows kick off at 8 p.m. nightly, making for a perfect evening activity in Siem Reap.
• The Landmine Museum: provides a sobering look at Cambodia’s impacts of the Civil War and ongoing recovery efforts.
• Cooking classes: learn how to prepare traditional Cambodian dishes.
• Day trips to Tonle Sap Lake: the floating villages offer a glimpse into the local way of life.
• APOPO Visitor Center: learning about the Hero Rats in APOPO is something truly unique. This Visitor Center introduces you to the rats trained to detect landmines in Cambodia. You’ll not only learn about these incredible animals’ contributions to making the country safer but also see a demonstration of how they work. You might even find rats cute at the end of the tour, even want to hold one.

Finding a great place to stay is key to enjoying Siem Reap. Given the heat, accommodations with a swimming pool are a huge plus for cooling off after a day of exploration. Here’s a quick guide to my top choices.

The Cambodia hostel scene is awesome. They are about community, comfort, and (maybe) finding some fellow travelers to keep exploring the country. Here are some top picks known for their excellent value, prime locations, and swimming pool:

• Lub D: Known for its vivid atmosphere and friendly staff. Comfortable rooms and great common areas for meeting fellow travelers. The swimming pool is next to the bar. Make sure you spin the wheel, you might earn a free cocktail. It has a bit more party vibe than the others, but you can also just relax.
• Onederz Siem Reap: Popular among a diverse crowd. It offers private rooms, two swimming pools, and a large shaded communal area. This is a great place for “adult” travelers who love a bar but not too much party. Personally, I feel this is the best place for 30+ travelers.
• The Twizt Lifestyle Hostel: Features glamorous vibes with daily live music on the rooftop. The pool offers stunning sunset views on clear days. It is not as social, but super clean and laid-back. It felt a bit more like a hotel. Their rooftop swimming pool had the best sunset views!

Read here my guide to the best hostels in Siem Reap .

Alternative Budget Accommodations

Beyond hostels, Siem Reap has many guesthouses, and budget hotels offering more privacy. A notable mention to Rithy Rine Angkor Residence. A great budget hotel option with good facilities.

Tips for Choosing Accommodation

• Book in Advance: Especially during high season, to secure a good spot.
• Location Matters: Siem Reap is not big, but after a long day walking around Angkor you’ll be tired. I recommend you to stay near Pub Street for convenience but far enough to avoid noise.
• Read Reviews: Use Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Hostels for reliable and updated insights on cleanliness, safety, and service.

Siem Reap is great for travelers on a budget, with plenty of options for affordable meals and drinks.

Affordable Eats

• Night Markets: A hotspot for cheap, delicious dishes, open from 5 PM to around 10-11 PM. The night market is located near the riverside and it is full of locals too. Make sure you choose a stall with food turnover to get the fresher products. To avoid getting sick, do not drink the free water they’ll offer you. Bring your water or buy bottled drinks.
• Bakeries: Cambodian bakeries are perfect for both sweet and savory snacks on the go. Look out for them throughout the city for a quick, tasty, and budget-friendly bite. My favorite one is Le Pain du Cour.
• Local Restaurants: Many local eateries offer dishes for as low as $3. If you want a nicer restaurant but are looking to stretch your budget further, consider skipping drinks and just enjoying the food.

Cheap Drinks and Nightlife Spots

• Pub Street: The go-to place for budget-friendly nightlife, where some bars offer beers for less than $1. It’s lively and packed with options to party until the early hours.
• Happy Hour Deals: Keep an eye out for happy hour promotions on Pub Street, where beer prices can drop to as low as 50 cents. It’s a great way to enjoy the nightlife without spending too much.

How to get around Siem Reap

Getting around siem reap.

Siem Reap lacks public transport, meaning alternative methods are needed:

• Electric Tuk-tuk: Similar to those in Sri Lanka, you can negotiate a fare or use the Grab app. Rates vary.
• Remorque tuk- tuks: A traditional Cambodian tuk-tuk, slightly pricier than electric ones but still affordable. Remember to negotiate the fare. You can also book them through Grab app.
• Bike Rentals: Renting a bike costs about $7 a day, including a lock and a helmet. You must ask for them.
• Motorbike Rentals: A day’s rental is around $10, with distance and damage clauses to be aware of.
• Walking: if you stay around Pub Street, you’ll be able to walk to some places. As it gets very hot in Siem Reap, do not hesitate to use Grab and Tuk-Tuks for further distances. It is quite cheap and very convenient.

Cheapest Way to Get To and From the International Airport (SAI)

Since October 2023, Siem Reap International Airport (REP) changed to the new airport: Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI)

There is a bus company offering transfers from the airport to Siem Reap at $8 per person. Bear in mind if you are traveling as a couple or in a group a tuk-tuk for two is around $16, offering a direct ride to your accommodation.

Traveling around Cambodia

For those backpacking in Cambodia, there are 2 ways you can move to your next destination:

• Bus Travel: Buses, like Giant Bus or Virak Buntham, are an affordable way to travel across Cambodia. A trip from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is about $8, while a sleeper bus costs around $17. You can book the tickets through 12goasia too, even it will cost you a bit more.
• Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis offer comfort but at a higher price. For flexibility, a private car can be booked, for example, from Battambang to Siem Reap at about $65.

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

Siem Reap receives tourists all year long, but there are 2 months when the accommodation prices are the highest: December and January. This means accommodation can be more expensive, there are more visitors, and bargaining for transportation prices might be tougher.

Siem Reap is warm or hot all year, with the biggest change being how much it rains.

• Dry season: from November to March.
• Wet season:   from June to September. Try to avoid it because it rains a lot. That means some roads are flooded and there are more mosquitos.

The best time to visit Siem Reap on a budget is February and March. It is still dry season, but prices are more affordable.

Calendar of Events

Some special times and holidays will make prices skyrocket. As a backpacker, knowing these dates can help you plan your trip better. You might want to join in the festivals or choose a quieter time to visit. The decision is yours:

• Khmer New Year (April): the dates change each year as it depends on the lunar calendar. It lasts 3 days and is a big holiday. Lots of businesses close, prices of accommodation and restaurants go up, and finding open restaurants might be hard.
• Birth of Buddha (April 28): Many locals visit temples to pray and listen to monks. Angkor and nearby temples get very busy.
• Royal Ploughing Ceremony  (May 2) : an important cultural event.
• King Sihamoni’s Birthday (May 13-15): This will affect you only if you’re in Phnom Penh, as the ceremonies occur in the kingdom’s palace.
• Ancestors’ Day from (September 7-11): Families go to temples to honor their ancestors.
• Constitution Day (September 24): It’s a public holiday, and many shops and restaurants might be closed.
• Independence Day (November 9): is another public holiday.
• Water Festival  (November 20-23): Expect boat races and celebrations near Tonle Sap Lake. This event draw crowds around the area for days.

Safety and Scams: Staying Secure

Siem Reap is largely safe for backpackers, but it’s smart to be aware of common scams:

• Tuk-tuk Overcharges: Some drivers might try to overcharge tourists. To avoid being overcharged by tuk-tuk drivers, check the Grab app for fair prices or book your ride directly through it to skip bargaining.
• Fake Blessings: Beware of individuals impersonating monks and asking for donations. Genuine monks do not solicit donations actively.
• Transportation Scams: For airport transfers or day tours, book through reputable websites or directly with your accommodation. There are some “fake companies” that will charge you and never show up.
• Baby Formula Scam: Be cautious if approached by young mums and teenagers or kids asking to buy baby formula. This is often a scam where the formula is returned to the store for a refund.
• Fake Orphanages: Many Cambodian orphanages are scams, exploiting children for donations. UNICEF reports most children in these orphanages have living parents but are kept in poor conditions to elicit donations.

Cultural Etiquette and Tips

It’s crucial to approach Siem Reap with a mindset of respect and understanding towards local culture and human rights. Avoid participating in or supporting any activities that may exploit or violate human rights. Engaging with the community respectfully and peacefully enriches your travel experience and supports the ethical treatment of all individuals. Here’s what you need to know to respect local customs during your stay in Siem Reap.

• Greetings: The customary greeting is to clasp your hands and bow slightly with a smile.
• Temple Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering certain temple areas (also in Angkor) and dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to respect local customs.
• Physical Contact: Avoid gestures like pointing or touching someone’s head, as these are considered disrespectful.
• Endangered Species Products: Do not buy products made from endangered animals, like ivory, rhinoceros horns, or crocodile skins,…This only contributes to their suffering.
• Currency Use: Cambodian transactions often use US dollars and Riels. Ensure your US bills are in really good condition; torn or old bills (pre-1996) may not be accepted.
• Interacting with Local Children: Avoid giving money to children begging or selling items, as this discourages them from valuing education. It is a sensitive topic.
• Taking Photos of Local Cuisine: Before photographing exotic bugs at night markets, ask permission to avoid potential charges.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Traveling sustainably in Siem Reap not only enhances your experience but also helps preserve this stunning area’s environment and cultural heritage.

• Support Local Businesses: Opt for dining at local eateries and cafes that use locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, minimizing the environmental impact of food transportation.
• Nature Conservation: Respect the majestic Angkor site by leaving no trace, avoiding climbing on the ruins to prevent damage, and helping to preserve the natural surroundings.
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Bring along a reusable water bottle to cut down on single-use plastics. Many places offer water refill stations. Also, prefer using a glass for your beverages in restaurants.
• Choose Reputable Businesses: Support restaurants and cafes committed to fair trade and ethical practices, such as providing fair wages and healthcare to their staff. A great example is The Little Red Fox Espresso, known for its excellent food and ethical business model.
• Respect Cultural Heritage: Dress appropriately when visiting temples, covering your knees and shoulders, to show respect for the local culture.

Embracing these sustainable practices ensures your visit contributes positively to Siem Reap’s preservation and the well-being of its community.

Things Not to Do in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is an inviting destination, yet there is some useful advice to make your experience even better:

• Avoid Keeping Cambodian Riels: Spend your Riels before leaving Cambodia. It’s almost impossible to exchange this currency outside the country.
• Be Cautious with Dining on Pub Street: While Pub Street is worth visiting, dining there might not offer the best value. Many places serve overpriced Western food. Look for local eateries off the main drag for authentic and affordable meals.
• Don’t Pre-Book All Tours: Unlike destinations in Europe where booking ahead is essential, Siem Reap’s tour prices often remain stable, and last-minute deals are common. Online offerings might be pricier than what you’ll find locally.
• Explore Temples Independently: If you’re looking to save money, consider self-guided tours of Angkor’s temples. Armed with information from videos or books, you can enjoy the sites at your own pace. However, remember that a knowledgeable guide can enrich your understanding of these historic places.
• Be Cautious with Tap Water: Stay hydrated, but avoid tap water unless confirmed safe by your accommodation. Around Cambodia bottled water is a safer choice to prevent health issues.

Following these tips can help you navigate Siem Reap more smoothly, making your trip both enjoyable and economical.

Here are some essential tools to plan your Siem Reap trip.

Accommodations:

• Hostelworld

Transportation:

• Vireak Buntham Express
• Passapp: The local ride-hailing app similar to Grab in Cambodia.
• Grab app:  An app that allows you to book rides for tuk-tuks and taxis at fair, metered rates without needing to haggle.

Navigation:

• Organic Maps: detailed, offline maps.

Tours and Activities:

• Local Travel Companies: ask your accommodation for reputable companies before booking any trip/ ride.
• Hostel Tours

Language and Communication:

• Google Translate
• Speak & Translate

Conclusion: Your Budget-Friendly Siem Reap Adventure

Siem Reap offers an authentic slice of Cambodia, showcasing its marvelous temple, resilience, culture, and the incredible warmth of its people. The city proves that true travel experiences don’t have to drain your savings. With a spirit of adventure, you can dive deep into the essence, savoring its flavors, marveling at its history, and creating memories that resonate long after you’ve returned home.

Siem Reap should not just be a stopover to check a famous temple, should be a chapter in your travel story. So, pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and set forth on a journey to Siem Reap.

Safe travels!

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Siem Reap Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know About This Historically Rich City

Along with the city’s vibrance and a rich cultural heritage, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit in siem reap. have a look.

By: Divya Arora Published: Feb 14, 2023 01:00 PM UTC

With a rich heritage and archaeological marvels that showcase a kaleidoscopic showreel of the Cambodian past, Siem Reap is the jewel of the Southeast Asian region. Also offering an exhilarating blend of the city’s vibrance and nightlife, there are plenty of things to do and places to visit in Siem Reap.

This wholesome mix of traditional culture and modernism with tourist delights to experience is what makes this city a popular destination that deserves to be on every travel bucket list. While the city is prominently renowned for the neighbouring Angkor ruins of its temples and the royal palace, its effervescent markets, restaurants and pubs promise a happening time. It’s a city that offers the best of both worlds thereby ensuring a wonderfully unforgettable vacation for all.

With the exquisiteness of Khmer architecture, artwork, handicrafts and delicacies to explore and revel in, the Siem Reap town serves as a haven for history buffs and ardent travellers alike. So, if you wish to visit Siem Reap — this land of all things ancient and magnificent — this complete guide will be your ally in planning your holiday.

Best time to explore Siem Reap

Siem Reap usually has more or less the same weather throughout the year. However, with slight changes, it experiences three seasons — dry (or summer), wet (monsoon) and cool (winter). The best months to visit the city are December and January. While the summers tend to get too hot and dry, the monsoon season, too, is generally hot as well as humid because of high rainfall. So, the cooler months are the best time to explore Siem Reap. Since it is situated in the northern parts of Cambodia, the temperatures here are comparatively cooler than in the rest of the country. The tourist footfall, too, is high during this time and so are the prices of accommodation and flights, among other things.

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Best places to visit in Siem Reap

One of the largest and most significant religious monuments in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Angkor Wat is situated in the heart of the Angkor Archaeological Park. Built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II of the Khmer empire, the temple has been reconstructed by many kings after him. Spread across an area of 400 square kilometres, Angkor Park was once the largest pre-industrial city in the world. While Angkor Wat is one of the top tourist attractions here, the park also houses many other ancient temples, amongst which some of the most famous ones include the Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple.

Ta Prohm temple

Yet another prominent temple in Siem Reap, Ta Prohm temple is also commonly known as the Tomb Raider temple. Surrounded by thick woods, the temple exists in the same condition as it was found. With centuries-old massive Banyan tree and Kapok tree roots sprawling across the temple remains and its premises, it stands as a testament to the bygone era. Shrubs, creepers and moss cover most of the stone walls and corridors, lending the site a historic look.

Book your stay near Angkor Wat

Angkor Thom and Bayon temple

Showcasing Khmer architecture is the city of Angkor Thom, which was once the capital city of the Khmer Kingdom. It is now one of the most popular places to visit in Siem Reap and was built using laterite in extensive quantities and features gigantic figurines with naga s on its towers while the gates have representations of the ‘Churning of the Oceans’ episode of Hindu mythology.

Additionally, the site also has the famous Bayon temple, the only Buddhist shrine in Angkor, at its centre. It was built in the 12th century under the regime of Buddhist King Jayavarman VII in the traditional Khmer style of architecture popular for 216 faces of Avalokiteśvara carved on its 54 towers (only 200 faces remaining now). The temple carvings also feature numerous bas-reliefs depicting the battle scenes and life in the city then.

Angkor National Museum

The one place to surely stop by, especially before visiting the archaeological wonders of Angkor, is the Angkor National Museum. While it’ll give you ample information on the Khmer civilisation, its temples and ruins through informative audio-visual facilities will help in understanding the heritage sites better. Not just that, it houses eight galleries, showcasing over 8,000 artefacts, relics and treasures, spanning different eras of Cambodian history, religious deities and culture.

Book your stay in old french quarter

Banteay Srey Butterfly Center

Yet another tourist attraction that’s a must-visit is the Banteay Srey Butterfly Center. It is South East Asia’s largest exhibition centre and home to thousands of butterflies. They fly freely in a huge netted garden-like area that’s brimming with lush greens and tropical flowers. It is an interactive centre that also aims at educating people about a butterfly’s life cycle alongside training individuals in butterfly farming.

Phnom Kulen National Park

Situated on the holy Kulen Mountain, the Phnom Kulen National Park makes for a great getaway from the city, as it takes you into the laps of nature . Situated a bit far from the city, the site houses a slew of ancient temple ruins made of bricks and volcanic stones. The place also has waterfalls over huge multi-tiered rocks where you can swim or simply while away your time amidst verdant greens.

Tonlé Sap Lake and Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary

This is the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, which makes for a natural resource for the local population inhabited around its banks, earning a living by fishing and agriculture. It is also known as the Great Lake and has over 300 species of fish, water birds and animals, including snakes, turtles and crocodiles. The site also has floating villages that are great to explore. The best time to visit this place in Siem Reap is during the wet season.

Located within the Tonlé Sap Biosphere Reserve is the Prek Toal Bird Sanctuary that’s home to numerous species of water birds and migratory birds such as the Black-Headed Ibis, Fish Eagle, Storks, Spot-Billed Pelican and Greater and Lesser Adjuncts. You can opt for boat-guided tours for an enhanced and informative experience.

Book your stay in Siem reap central area

The Bakong temple

The first of Angkor’s large mountain temples, the Bakong temple of the Khmer period, was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The site is revered for its distinctive five-tier central pyramid structure surrounded by eight finely carved temple towers and the bas reliefs that represent the architectural skill and artistry of the empire. It makes for one of the top places to visit in Siem Reap, which leaves one in awe of the historic charm and regalia.

Cambodia Landmine Museum

Established by Aki Ra in 1997, the museum gives an insight into the country’s landmine situation when around six million landmines were laid in Cambodia. The museum displays decommissioned landmines, explosives, weapons and bombs that Aki Ra removed from the country to make it safe for its people. The museum now aims at educating people about the dangers of landmines and their history with the country.

Angkor Silk Farm

If the opulence of silk has always fascinated you, the Angkor Silk Farm will be the best place to increase your knowledge about all things silk. It was established in 1993 as a non-profit, charitable business, aiming at the revival and development of Sericulture in Cambodia. While here, you’ll be taken on a guided tour that educates you about all the aspects and end-to-end process of silk farming. Be it mulberry cultivation, application of natural dyes to silkworms, cocoon formation or Ikat weaving, everything is explained through amazing workshops.

The Royal Terraces

Comprising the Terrace of the Elephants to the South and the Terrace of the Leper King to the North, the Royal Terraces form the Eastern boundary of the Royal Palace grounds in Angkor. The Terrace of the Elephants is a 300-metre-long walled structure, featuring bas-reliefs of elephants and their mahouts. It is believed to have served as a platform where King Jayavarman VII would stand and watch parades and processions and listen to people’s complaints and problems.

The Terrace of the Leper King is named after a statue of the Leper King that was found in the middle during excavation. It’s prominently marked with figures and sculptures of multi-headed naga s (snakes), demons, mythical beings, armed guardians, garuda s (eagle or kite in Hindu mythology) and female celestial beings.

Book your stay in the wat bo area

Located in downtown Siem Reap, Pub Street road is the best place to experience the city’s nightlife. It is a vibrant and happening street that starts bustling with tourists and locals post five in the evening. Lined with an array of restaurants , cafes, pubs, massage parlours and entertainment clubs, it also has many souvenir shops, art galleries and stores to add to the experience.

Things to do in Siem Reap

Shop at siem reap’s famous markets.

When in Siem Reap, exploring and shopping at its various bazaars and night markets is simply unmissable. Buzzing with tourists and locals alike, these markets sell everything from traditional Khmer handicrafts and artefacts to daily essentials, fashion items, home decor products and souvenirs. These markets are also a ground for umpteen restaurants, cafes, pubs and food stalls, serving authentic Khmer delicacies and other local and continental dishes.

Watch Apsara Dance

A lot of hotels and restaurants in Siem Reap arrange for dinner evenings with traditional art and dance performances, amongst which the Apsara Dance is the most popular one. After a day spent exploring some archaeological sites of the city, an evening spent relishing delicacies and drinks while experiencing this cultural dance should definitely be on your itinerary.

Book your stay near apsara theatre

Go ziplining

If you’re looking to amp up your trip to Siem Reap with some adventure , head to the Angkor National Park for a ziplining tour. Offering 10 ziplines over a lush jungle canopy surrounding the temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, it also features four hanging sky bridges along the way that allow you to explore and learn about the vegetation and the flora and fauna around. A roundtrip shuttle service to and from the hotel and traditional Khmer lunch are included in the tour packages.

Visit the Kbal Spean River

Also known as the River of Thousand Lingas, owing to the intricate carvings of more than 1,000 lingas on the rocks around the riverbed, the Kbal Spean is one of the most famous places to visit in Siem Reap. The site makes for a great escapade where you can enjoy a quiet downtime by the river. A trip to this place can easily be combined with the Phnom Kulen National Park and can be reached via an easy two-kilometre hike through the dense forests.

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What to eat in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is nothing less than a paradise for lovers of food. With the city’s various markets and the famous Pub Street bustling with myriad restaurants, cafes and street-side food stalls, the food scene here is also a major attraction. Serving an extensive variety of authentic Khmer cuisines and continental dishes, these eating joints leave one spoilt for choices. However, if you’re looking for a select few must-try dishes , our list below is what you should be pinning to your itinerary right away.

Fish Amok — a freshwater fish fillet marinated in a curry paste and steamed in banana leaf resulting in a soft, creamy texture.

Nom Banh Chok — traditional Khmer rice noodles cooked with bean sprouts, green beans, mint leaves, banana flowers, cucumber, coconut-based fish curry and meat of choice.

Lok-Lak — stir-fried beef distinctively flavoured by marinating the meat overnight in fish sauce, lemon, pepper, soy sauce and oyster sauce. It is served on a bed of lettuce, tomato, rice, brown sauce and fried egg.

Prahok Ktiss — a dip that’s made with fermented fish, eggplant, coconut milk, Khmer curry paste called Kroeung and sliced pork belly or minced pork. It is usually served with fresh vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, cucumbers and long beans.

Lap Khmer — a lime-marinated beef salad made with raw beef slices, freshly squeezed lime juice, shallots, fish sauce, lemongrass, mint, green pepper, garlic, basil and green beans.

Kralan — Khmer bamboo sticky rice that’s made by combining rice, black beans and coconut water and stuffing it inside clean bamboo sticks. This is then cooked on a grill or burning coals for about an hour.

Khmer Red Curry — a milder and less spicy version of Thai and Indian curries. It is a coconut milk-based dish that includes Khmer curry paste, lemongrass, kaffir lime zest, galangal and turmeric and is served with French Baguette alongside meat slices, potatoes, eggplant and green beans.

Discover more dining experiences here

What to shop in Siem Reap

Another thing that Siem Reap is popular for apart from its various temples and heritage sites is the plenty of markets where one can shop their heart out. One of the most famous markets is the Siem Reap Old Market or locally called Psar Chas. It is the oldest Khmer market set in a covered structure and sells fresh produce, edibles, meat and seafood, spices and even affordable souvenirs, including antiques, silks, jewellery and clothing.

Another must-visit tourist shopping spot is the Angkor Night Market, which starts in the evening and is on till midnight. It is a haven for both shopaholics and foodies, offering an extensive variety of both goods and delectable dishes. It is a famous night market that also sells Khmer artwork and local handicrafts. Other famous markets include the Siem Reap Art Centre Market, Noon Night Market and BB Angkor Market. These are brimming with stalls and shops selling not just home, living and fashion essentials but also traditional Khmer goods and souvenirs that one must splurge on.

(Main and Featured Image Courtesy: Paul Szewczyk/Unsplash)

Related: Song Saa Private Island, Your Ultimate Luxury Destination Amid Nature

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: Anywhere between three to five days is required to explore Siem Reap and its neighbouring tourist attractions.

Answer: Besides its various local markets, other tourist spots and attractions that you can explore for free include West Baray, Wat Preah Prom Rath, Wat Bo and Wat Damnak.

Answer: Some of the most popular areas of Siem Reap that you can stay in are the French Quarter, Old Market, Wat Bo and Taphul Village.

Answer: Getting around in Siem Reap includes plenty of options such as remork (Cambodian tuk-tuks), taxis, motorcycle taxis and rented vehicles like bicycles, bikes and eclectic cars.

Answer: While you can carry lightweight, breezy clothes to Siem Reap, including tank-tops, shorts and dresses, it is advised to wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious places and temples.

• south east asia

Divya Arora

With an academic background in Public Relations, Divya has a flair for writing about topics spanning genres like lifestyle, beauty, fashion, travel, FnB, tech and entertainment. She fancies everything that's a wholesome blend of contemporary finery and timelessness. Quirky earrings and tees are her weakness. When not creating content, you will find .. Read More her devouring food, snuggling in with a book and a cup-a-chai, admiring skies or revisiting Hogwarts. Read Less

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© Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Gateway for the temples of Angkor, Siem Reap (see-em ree-ep; សៀមរាប) was always destined for great things. Visitors come here to see the temples, of course, but there is plenty to do in and around the city when you're templed out. Siem Reap has reinvented itself as the epicentre of chic Cambodia, with everything from backpacker party pads to hip hotels, world-class wining and dining across a range of cuisines, sumptuous spas, great shopping, local tours to suit both foodies and adventurers, and a creative cultural scene that includes Cambodia's leading contemporary circus.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Angkor National Museum

Looming large on the road to Angkor is the Angkor National Museum, a state-of-the-art showpiece on the Khmer civilisation and the majesty of Angkor…

Artisans Angkor – Les Chantiers Écoles

Siem Reap is the epicentre of the drive to revitalise Cambodian traditional culture, which was dealt a harsh blow by the Khmer Rouge and the years of…

Apopo Visitor Centre

Meet the hero rats that are helping to clear landmines in Cambodia. Apopo has trained the highly sensitive, almost-blind Gambian pouched rat to sniff…

Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chorm

Located just west of the royal residence is this shrine. Said to represent two Angkorian princesses, these sacred statues were originally housed at the…

Angkor Silk Farm

Les Chantiers Écoles maintains the Angkor Silk Farm, which produces some of the best work in the country, including clothing, interior-design products and…

Cambodia has a long tradition of producing beautiful lacquerware, although the years of upheaval resulted in some of the skills being lost. Cambolac is a…

Angkor Conservation

Angkor Conservation is a Ministry of Culture compound that houses more than 5000 statues, lingas (phallic symbols) and inscribed stelae, stored here to…

Senteurs d’Angkor Botanic Garden

The botanic garden of Senteurs d’Angkor is a sort of Willy Wonka’s for the senses, where you can sample infused teas and speciality coffees in the on-site…

Latest stories from Siem Reap

Wildlife & Nature

Nov 18, 2021 • 5 min read

The Temples of Angkor Wat are a must, but what do you do after? Here are the best things to do in Siem Reap.

Jan 14, 2020 • 2 min read

Nov 13, 2019 • 5 min read

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Get to the heart of Siem Reap with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

The Ultimate Siem Reap Travel Guide

• October 4, 2023
• by: hungrypursuit

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Table of Contents

Welcome to the Ultimate Siem Reap Travel Guide . In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the heart of Siem Reap, where ancient temples and modern luxuries coexist. We’ll share the best ways to navigate this captivating city, from transportation options to a myriad of accommodations that cater to every traveler’s needs. Experience Siem Reap’s top attractions , indulge in a variety of different top-quality food & restaurants and embark on unforgettable travel itineraries curated just for you. 

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

The best time to visit Cambodia is during the peak season, which spans from November to February. This period offers cooler and drier weather with temperatures between 21°C to 30°C (69°F to 86°F), ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country’s top attractions.

Pre-Arrival Checklist

What do I need to bring to Siem Reap? Before you set foot in Siem Reap, we’ve put together a pre-checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming journey.

When traveling to Siem Reap we do recommend purchasing a SIM card if you don’t have a roam-like home service with your cellular plan. To ensure we had reliable connectivity during our Siem Reap trip we purchased a reliable SIM card. Where to Purchase a SIM Card In the Siem Reap: The best place to purchase a SIM card in Siem Reap is to visit a Cellcard phone store in the city. We found it super easy to top-up our phones using a credit card and by downloading the mobile app, it works like a pre-paid card.

Entry Requirements

Travel Requirements for Cambodia:

You can obtain a 30-day tourist visa for $30 USD upon arrival or apply for an e-visa in advance. You can extend it for two more 30-day periods for an extra fee. Proof of vaccination or test results are not required for entry.

Travel Vaccines

We always recommend seeking advice for vaccinations for Indonesia on the CDC website , and/or visiting a travel medical clinic before traveling to a destination.

Disclaimer: The information shared regarding travel vaccines is based on our experiences and research and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. For personalized vaccine information and guidance, please consult with a medical expert such as a travel clinic .

Outlet Plugs & Adapters

Outlet plugs, and adapters to get: The power plugs in Cambodia typically use Type A , Type C , or Type G sockets, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. It’s advisable to carry a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with these outlets.

Travel Insurance

Before traveling, it’s crucial to have travel & medical insurance coverage whenever you’re traveling abroad to another country. We always recommend checking your c redit card’s insurance policies to understand the coverage and duration of your insurance. Most travel credit cards have coverage between 14-30 days on the high-end. Therefore, depending on the coverage type and duration of your trip, purchasing travel insurance that supplements these policies , is recommended to provide you with peace of mind and financial security, to ensure your trip is worry-free.

What to Bring

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, we’ve handpicked a selection of must-have travel items that will make your journeys smoother and more enjoyable. From packing hacks to smart gadgets, these essential travel items have helped us organize better and maintain a stress-free travel experience while saving us time!

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Welcome to our quick guide on where to stay in Siem Reap, where we unveil the city’s best neighborhoods and an array of hotel options to cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Whether you seek the tranquillity of lush gardens, the convenience of city center lodgings, or the luxurious comforts of upscale resorts, this guide has you covered, ensuring an unforgettable stay amid the cultural wonders of Siem Reap.

This area is the most popular choice for many travelers due to its proximity to the bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of dining options. It’s ideal for those who want to experience the city’s lively atmosphere and be within walking distance of key attractions like Pub Street and the Old Market.

Budget: Antonios Villa This is one of the best accommodations within walking distance of Pub Street and the city center of Siem Reap. It has a nice pool and spotless and spacious rooms. It’s not uncommon to get a nightly rate of $12 USD per night.

Mid-tier: Golden Temple Villa

Incredible spacious rooms, the staff customer service is top-notch, and conveniently located within walking distance of Pub Street and Old Market. They offer massages and a phenomenal breakfast!

Luxury: Raffles Grand Hotel

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is the epitome of luxury in Siem Reap. With its colonial-era charm, opulent rooms, and exceptional service, it’s a top choice for those seeking an extravagant stay in the city center.

Angkor Archaeological Park: For those primarily focused on exploring the ancient temples of Angkor, staying near the Angkor Archaeological Park is a top choice. This area offers a tranquil environment, providing easy access to the temples while allowing for a peaceful retreat away from the city center’s hustle and bustle.

Budget: Grand Venus La Residence

This budget-friendly hotel offers a comfortable stay near Angkor Archaeological Park. It’s known for its affordability and convenience.

Mid-tier: Nita by Vo Luxury Hotel

This beautiful hotel is equipped with a rooftop pool, away from the busy pub street for a more tranquil environment. It’s closer to Angkor Watt Temple, and the rooms are clean and spacious.

Luxury: Templation Siem Reap (Highly Recommend)

This is one of the most beautiful resorts in Cambodia. It’s located near Angkor Wat in a tranquil resort, it truly feels like you are at a wellness resort it’s calm and peaceful! You can choose to have a villa with your own private pool, bedroom, and living quarters are separate, stunning outdoor bathroom and shower! They offer floating breakfast and room service for all your meals.

Getting Around Siem Reap

Getting around Siem Reap is an essential aspect of your Cambodian adventure. From navigating the journey from Siem Reap International Airport to the best ways of getting around the city, we have you covered. 

Upon landing at Phnom Penh International Airport, you’ll find several convenient options for reaching the heart of the city. The airport is located approximately 7 kilometres (4 miles) west of central Phnom Penh.

Here’s what you need to know:

Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport. It’s advisable to use the official airport taxi service, which has fixed rates posted at the taxi counter. The journey to downtown Phnom Penh takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Tuk-Tuks: For a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, consider taking a tuk-tuk. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tuk-tuks are open-air vehicles, that allow you to soak in the sights and sounds of the city as you travel.

Ride-Sharing Apps (Our Recommendation): Popular ride-sharing apps like Grab operate in Phnom Penh, offering a convenient and transparent way to book rides from the airport to your destination. What we enjoy about this option is it’s cashless, rides can be cheaper and avoids having to negotiate a price.

We found there were limited public transportation options in Phnom Penh. The majority of the time we used the Grab App to take Tuk Tuks to get around the city for shorter distances, and when we were going longer distances we used a Grab car .

Exploring Siem Reap by taxi, car rental, or scooter provides flexibility and convenience:

Taxis: Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-sharing apps like Grab. You can order Tuk Tuks using the Grab app or call a car depending on your preference and distance.

Car Rentals: Renting a car is an option if you prefer independent travel. International and local car rental agencies operate in Siem Reap, and driving is on the right side of the road. However, traffic in the city can be chaotic, so be prepared for a unique driving experience.

Scooter Rentals: Scooters are a common mode of transportation in Siem Reap. You can rent them from various shops, and they offer an efficient way to navigate the city’s narrow streets. Make sure you have the necessary license and follow local traffic rules.

Travel Itineraries for Cambodia

Designed to be your passport to this historic and lively Cambodian city, these comprehensive guides offer in-depth insights into the top attractions, hidden gems, and the best culinary experiences that Siem Reap has to offer. With detailed locations, budget-friendly tips, and expert recommendations, our itineraries provide you with the ultimate shortcut to a memorable and stress-free journey. 

Top Things to Do & Eat in Cambodia

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Siem Reap’s most sought-after attractions! Discover the timeless allure of Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece that attracts travelers from around the world to witness its grandeur. 

Explore the enigmatic ruins of Angkor Thom, where ancient history whispers through the stone faces of Bayon Temple. And don’t miss the mesmerizing Ta Prohm, where nature’s embrace intertwines with the ancient stones. Join us in uncovering the secrets of these iconic attractions, and let your adventure in Siem Reap begin! Let’s dive right in with our  Ultimate Angkor Wat Guide & Hiring a Local Photographer . 

Best Restaurant & Eats in Cambodia

Let’s go on a culinary journey in Siem Reap where you can find an abundance of delicious traditional Cambodian food, and if you’re looking to switch it up some nights, they have a ton of fantastic international restaurants that will blow your mind. From aromatic street food stalls serving up delectable Khmer dishes to elegant restaurants offering international and fusion cuisine, Siem Reap is a gastronomic paradise waiting to be explored. Join us as we unveil the city’s best restaurants and food experiences, ensuring your taste buds embark on an adventure as unforgettable as the temples themselves. Here are the Top 5 Foods To Try In Cambodia .

Our Thoughts on Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a must-visit destination if you’re traveling to Cambodia! Angkor Wat is simply one of the most breathtaking temples you can see in the world. What we loved was that you could stay in an incredibly relaxing oasis like Templation which makes you feel like you’re in a Bali villa. You can also enjoy an upbeat fun city centre filled with restaurants, street food, and bars to spend the evening, and watch traditional Apsara with a tremendous buffet! 

It was super easy to get around Siem Reap using Grab everywhere we went which was within a 5-10 minute Tuk-Tuk ride. The quality of accommodations in Siem Reap from budget to luxury is some of the best value we’ve seen in Southeast Asia for the service and experience! 

Andrew & Melissa

@HungryPursuit

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The Perfect 3 Day Siem Reap Itinerary And Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: April 21, 2023

Categories Cambodia

Siem Reap is a dream destination for many travelers, made famous by the iconic Angkor Archaeological Park.

Spend your days wandering through the ancient temples, take a cultural tour of a floating village, and enjoy a drink and a traditional Khmer meal at Pub Street. 

This 3 day Siem Reap itinerary will help you to make the most of your time in this lovely village in Cambodia!

With so many things to do in Siem Reap , following a travel guide will simplify your trip planning and make sure you include the most important Siem Reap activities in your schedule.

3 day Siem Reap itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

This post was written by Delilah Hart, a Kiwi making her way across the world, one country at a time. She’s the founder of Our Travel Mix and an avid writer and adventurer.

Plan your Southeast Asia trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Book your transport tickets (train, bus, ferry, minivan, and more) via 12Go.Asia ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours with Klook and Get Your Guide . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Siem Reap 3 day itinerary: map

Click here for the interactive map

Siem Reap travel itinerary

• Day 1: Stroll around Siem Reap Town, the Old Market, Artisans Angkor, visit the Angkor National Museum, watch the sunset from Phnom Bakheng, and walk around the Siem Reap night market.
• Day 2: Explore Angkor Archaeological Park, have a massage, and walk around Pub Street.
• Day 3: Visit a floating village, take a cooking class, and watch an Apsara dance performance.

Best places to stay in Siem Riep

In the table below you can find a quick overview of the recommended places to stay in Siem Riep. Further down in the post, you can find more detailed information.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Agoda and Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

How do I get around Siem Reap?

Siem Reap Town itself is walkable, which makes it easy to get around on foot.

Ride-sharing apps have become increasingly popular in recent years. They’re super convenient, just download the app, type in your destination, and a driver will meet you where you are.

Grab and Gojek are amongst the most popular apps in Southeast Asia and are very useful for short trips.

For day tours, such as Angkor Archaeological Park and the floating villages, travelers tend to hire a tuk tuk to get from Siem Reap to Angkor Wat (be sure to tip your tuk-tuk driver generously, they work very hard and your money goes a long way here!).

For confident riders, cycling to the top tourist destinations is also a viable option. Many cycling tours are also available if you prefer to travel as part of a group. Click here to book a cycling tour.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Siem Reap

Cambodia boasts a tropical climate, like many other Southeast Asian countries. There are two monsoon seasons; the northeast monsoon season from December to April, and the southwest rainy season from May to November. The latter is the one to avoid, with high humidity and abundant rain. December and January are the drier months, but also the busiest for tourism. To avoid the crowds, travel from February to April.

Although Riel is the official currency for Cambodia, US dollars are widely used. US dollars are dispensed at ATMs and you can pay for purchases in either currency, change of less than $1 USD will be given in Riel.  Click here for the current Riel exchange rates, which are around 4.400 KHR to 1 EUR. Just remember that Riel is a non-convertible currency outside of the country so be sure to use all your Riel before leaving Cambodia.

The chances are, you will need a visa for Cambodia. The following countries are exempt from requiring a visa in Cambodia: Brunei, Seychelles, and Thailand for up to 14 days; Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam for up to 30 days. For a 30-day Visa On Arrival (VOA), make sure to carry $30 USD and a passport photo when arriving at the airport. The process is very straightforward, but waiting times can be long depending on the number of arrivals at the airport. You may also be eligible to complete an eVisa instead. If you are eligible, a 30-day eVisa will cost $37 USD. Read more information at the official Cambodia Government Website .

What to do in Siem Reap in 3 days

Siem reap itinerary: day 1, explore siem reap town.

On your first day, it's time to explore the town itself as Siem Reap has much to offer! It's a village rich in culture and you’ll find no shortage of authentic Khmer cuisine, arts and crafts, and traditional markets.

Spend at least half a day exploring the town. Head to the Old Market in the morning to experience local life in Siem Reap. Vendors sell fresh produce, and you’ll be greeted by the aromas of fresh herbs and spices.

Artisans Angkor is another great place to check out when exploring the town. The handicraft workshop displays locally-made works of art including textiles, jewelry, and silkwear.

If you’re looking for authentic and delectable Cambodian dishes, Chae Ngek, located in the heart of the town is a good choice for lunch.

I loved the food so much that dining there became almost a daily occurrence! Be sure to try one of their curries.

Visit Angkor National Museum

Angkor National Museum is the perfect place to visit prior to going to Angkor Wat, a world-famous archaeological site.

The museum explores the Khmer Kingdom era and you'll learn much about the Khmer culture.

The museum is located around two kilometers from the city center, so to beat the afternoon heat the best way to get there is with a tuk-tuk (you can walk but it's HOT).

I highly recommend paying a bit extra for the audio guide, it will give you a lot of interesting insights you'd miss without the guide. Alternatively, book your museum tickets online , this includes a hotel pick-up.

Watch the sunset from Phnom Bakheng

What many people don’t know is that Angkor Archaeological Park is free after 5:30 pm. Head to the Angkor Pass ticket office after 5 pm and buy your one-day pass for the next day. This should cost you $37 USD.

You’ll need to show your ticket to the staff member at the entrance to the park, but they won’t clip your ticket after 5:30 pm.

Phnom Bakheng is one of the best spots to watch the sunset. It’s a 20-minute walk to the top, but the path is shaded and the temperature is cooler in the evening.

Dine and shop at one of the Siem Reap Night Markets

As the sun goes down, Siem Reap comes to life with its night markets. Even though the town is small, there are actually quite a few night markets located within walking distance.

Simply stroll from one to the next as you sample food and shop for souvenirs. Markets open from around 4 pm or 5 pm.

My favorite market is the Siem Reap Art Centre Night Market. The canvas paintings are vibrant and unique, if only I could have fitted some in my suitcase!

If you're a foodie, consider joining this popular street food tour where a local guide will introduce you to Cambodian delicacies and snacks.

Then head home for an early night as the next day will be an early one if you’re planning to watch the sunrise over the famous Angkor temples.

Siem Reap itinerary: day 2

Explore angkor archaeological park.

Walking around Angkor Archaeological Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) was at the top of my bucket list for Southeast Asia, and it definitely lived up to its expectations.

Watching the sunrise from Angkor Wat is the most popular thing in the park ( be sure to check out this tour ). The bright sunrise with the silhouetted Angkor Wat in the foreground is a sight to behold.

I cannot stress it enough, but getting there early will make a world of difference. Leave at 4.30 am to get to the front row, at the edge of the lake overlooking Angkor Wat.

Make an effort not to sleep in an extra 10 minutes, as you’ll end up standing behind many people. Even though it’s super early, there will be hundreds of people also wanting to watch the sunrise.

It’ll be pitch black when you arrive, so turn on your phone torch and follow the other tourists making the way to the sunrise spot, then patiently wait for the sun to rise.

After that, stroll through Angkor Wat and complete either the short loop or the long loop.

The short loop is more popular for one-day pass holders as it includes Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm temple (also known as the Tomb Raider temple).

It’s amazing to see the trees embedded into the walls of the temple complex.

Another important benefit of starting the day early is the temperature. By midday, the heat is almost too much without the shade of your tuk-tuk in between viewing the temples.

Starting at 4:30 means you’ll have completed either the short or long circuits of Angkor by 1 pm when the sun starts to get quite harsh.

Relax with a massage

Touring the temples for the day at Angkor comes with a lot of walking. You’ll surprise yourself with how many steps you do!

I visited Angkor Archaeological Park on a three-day pass. Each day I walked over 10 kilometers, needless to say, my feet were sore afterward and a foot massage seemed like the perfect option to relax.

An excellent way to recover is with a traditional foot massage or even a full body massage, to relax your tired muscles after climbing the steep steps of Angkor's temples. You’ll see many massage parlors in Siem Reap town.

If you opt to stay at the Golden Temple Retreat (more information can be found further on in the post), you can enjoy a massage at your own accommodation.

Have a drink at Pub Street

Pub Street is the happening area in Siem Reap. The street is filled with bars and eateries to suit all travelers.

There are more high-end eateries suitable for wine-ing and dining, but there are also street stalls selling anything and everything, hipster bars with live music, and nightclubs for the backpackers or partiers. 

My pick for Pub Street is Angkor What? Bar. They have live music in the evening as well as tasty cocktails and a cold beer.

Siem Reap itinerary: day 3

Take a tour of a floating village.

Floating villages are present all around Southeast Asia, and Siem Reap is a great place to visit one of these, due to its proximity to the massive Tonle Sap Lake.

Floating villages have quickly gained recognition in tourism, meaning the more popular villages tend to have lost sight of their authenticity in an attempt to make money through tourism. 

For this reason, I would recommend visiting Kampong Phluk or Kampong Khleang instead of the ever-popular Chong Kneas. Book a half-day tour to one of these villages to experience a different way of life.

Take a cooking class

Before traveling to Cambodia, I’ll admit I had never tried their cuisine, nor did I know much about it. 

One of my favorite things to do when I travel to new countries is to learn how to cook their cuisines, so I can experience a little bit of that country when I have returned home.

Cooking classes are an excellent way to learn how to cook a country’s signature dishes. Classes are available all around the city and can easily be booked online as well.

The afternoon is a good time to take a course as it’s generally too hot to be outside in the sun anyway. 

Watch an Apsara dance performance

End your time in Siem Reap by watching a traditional dance performance. Apsara is a Cambodian ballet dating back hundreds of years.

The leader of the dance is the spirit of Apsara who is dressed in white and leads her subordinates dressed in colored skirts.

There are a few places that showcase an Apsara dance performance. They typically occur during the evening and include a gourmet dinner. Click here to book a ticket .

Another excellent way to spend your last night in Siem Reap is to watch a spectacular show o f the Phare Circus , Cambodia's version of Cirque du Soleil. 

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Best budget hotel in siem riep: hak boutique hotel ☆☆☆.

Hak Boutique Hotel is a lovely place to stay in Siem Reap. Rooms are spacious with comfortable beds, the food is good and there is a swimming pool to cool off after a day of exploring.

The family who runs the hotel is absolutely wonderful and will make you feel very welcome. They're also happy to arrange an Angkor Wat tuk-tuk tour for you.

Free bikes available are, which make it easy to cycle to and around town (around 5 minutes by bike).

Check prices on Agoda | Check prices on Booking

Best mid-range hotel in Siem Riep: Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel ☆☆☆☆

One of the benefits of traveling in Southeast Asia is that you can get so much value for money when it comes to accommodation.

The Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel is no exception, where else in the world can you find a lovely 4-star hotel with a beautiful swimming pool without breaking the bank (usually a night will be less than $70).

Besides the nicely decorated rooms and excellent location, what sets this boutique hotel apart is the dedicated staff who go out of their way to accommodate their guests.

Best luxury hotel in Siem Riep: Golden Temple Retreat ☆☆☆☆☆

There is no better place to relax after a busy day of sightseeing in Siem Reap than the Golden Temple Retreat . From the beautiful outdoor swimming pool to the spacious suites with king-size beds, to the exceptional staff and superb breakfast, you will surely enjoy your stay here.

As you can expect from a 5-star hotel, there are many additional services. Some of these are complimentary (such as a two-way airport transfer), and others require an additional charge (such as access to the spa and wellness center).

Altogether, the Golden Temple Retreat is a wonderful luxury hotel in Siem Reap that will make your time in Siem Reap even more memorable.

Itinerary for Siem Reap: in conclusion

I hope this 3 days itinerary in Siem Reap will help you plan your trip! Let me know if you have any questions, you can leave a comment below or send me a message .

Read more about Cambodia here:

• Cambodia itinerary
• Cambodia travel budget

This post was updated in February 2023.

COMPLETE GUIDE TO SIEM REAP

Siem Reap is on every backpackers travel list. It is on the list of anyone who is traveling to South East Asia, and is on the wish list and bucket list of nearly everyone who has ever made a bucket list. This is despite the fact that many of these people don’t even know that it is ON their list. Why? Because Siem Reap is the gateway city to the incredible Angkor Wat, and the Angkor Archeological Park . Here, I have put together my Complete Guide to Siem Reap to help everyone who has ever made a bucket list, to get the most out of their trip to Angkor Wat.

This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you I will get a small commission. This will go a long way toward keeping this website running. As always, thank you for your support! Click HERE for more information.

Table of Contents

Where is siem reap, how to get to siem reap, things to do in siem reap, best tours and day trips, raffles grand hotel d’angkor, sofitel angkor phokeethra golf & spa resort, mid range options, central corner d’angkor, onederz hostel siem reap, revolution hostel, siem reap, how to get around siem reap, where to eat in siem reap, check your visa requirements and insurance, where to go next.

Siem Reap is in Cambodia, and lies over 300 kilometers from the capital city of Phnom Penh. It is in the North West of the country, and is easily located on a map as being on the Northern shores of the Lake, Tonle Sap.

Getting to Siem Reap is easiest done in a couple of different ways, depending upon your budget and travel plans. Being the second largest city in Cambodia, and the gateway city to Angkor Wat, it has infrastructure in place to allow access to travelers of every description. Whether you are looking to come directly to Siem Reap Internationally, or domestically from Phnom Penh, or another city in-country, there is sure to be an option available to you. In this guide to Siem Reap, I will look at a few of those options.

• By Plane – Siem Reap has its very own international airport. You can fly directly from locations all over South East Asia, especially Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur. Or you can fly domestically from in-country.
• By Bus – Bus and Minivan’s run almost constantly to Siem Reap. It is the most popular way to get to the city from Phnom Penh for those on a budget, and even from Bangkok , crossing the border at Poi Pet.
• By Boat – Yes! When the season is right, you can actually get to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh by boat! The boat will bring you up the river to the lake, and all the way to the shoreline not too far from Siem Reap. A great and scenic option if you are not short on time.
• By Taxi – This seems strange, but you can actually hire a taxi (or private transport) from Phnom Penh. A great option that is more expensive, but splitting the cost between a few people brings it down closer to the cost of the luxury minivans. In a taxi you can stop where you like, and even take scenic detours.

One thing that I found in Cambodia was that booking buses was not always easy. A couple of the most popular sites were not user friendly, and Paying was a headache! Then I found Bookaway , and have used them ever since. You can get from Bangkok to Siam Reap and back easily with Bookaway, or from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. Getting around Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia is a breeze as well. Click the button below to take a look at their site.

The main reason to come to Siem Reap is to see temples. Most people are not looking to do much else, but that doesn’t mean that there is nothing else to do! And this wouldn’t be the best Guide to Siem Reap without at least pointing a few of them out. Mostly, they are around the town itself, and are things to do before and after you visit the temples. Most things further removed from the town are best done on a daytrip, and will be covered in the next section.

So let’s take a look at the best things to do around Siem Reap:

• Tour Angkor Wat – This one is a no brainer, and is the main reason you are there anyway, right? You can get to Angkor Wat relatively easy from Siem Reap by just taking a Tuk Tuk. Check out THIS article.
• Explore more Temples – There are over 400 temples in the Angkor Archeological Park, so if you have more time left on your ticket after Angkor Wat, then why not go and see some more beautiful reminders of the past? See THIS article for some of the best.
• Check out Pub Street – This street is pretty much the center of Siem Reap, and is the place to go for a great vibe and atmosphere. Restaurants, clubs, markets and street food stalls can be found in and around this street. 6pm onwards is the time to get there most nights.
• Browse the Old Markets – Just along the river bank and not far from Pub Street you will find the old markets. Come here to find your local artworks, souvenirs and T-shirts.
• Visit the Landmine Museum – This is a little removed, but can be visited when you are touring some of the outer temples. Get a good look into the Cambodian past with a fascinating display of old landmines from the area. Some are still live!
• Take a Cycling Tour – The area around Chiang Mai is pretty flat, so cycling is not that hard. Except for the heat. Most locals can be seen cycling in the early morning though, and the ride out to the temples is very nice, with forests, monkeys and, of course, temples to be seen.
• Eat your way along the riverbank – Just north of the Old Markets, along the riverbank, you will find some wonderful street food stalls. Every evening they get packed out with locals and expats. There is no wonder why, with some amazing foods on offer!

There are many things around the Siem Reap area, as well as further afield, that are best seen and discovered on a day trip. There are many tours that you can do, but as usual, I always prefer to do it with a trusted company like GetYourGuide. They always provide trusted, knowledgeable and experienced LOCAL guides that are the best at what they do.

So, next up in my guide to Siem Reap, I will take a look at the very best and most recommended day trips from Siem Reap. Here we go:

• Angkor Wat Highlights and Sunrise Guided Tour – That’s right, Angkor Wat can be easily done on a daytrip, and the sunrise trip is easily covered this way. Why worry about getting there yourself when you can have all the hard work done for you? Click HERE to check it out.
• Angkor Wat 2 Day Temples Tour with Sunrise and Sunset – On this 2 day option you get to see a sunset as well. A good option if you go with a multi day pass to see Angkor. Click HERE to take a look.
• Sunset Dinner Tour – Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village – The floating villages around Siem Reap are very popular, and this tour is a great way to see how the locals live. Click HERE .
• Small Group Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour – Want a break from the temples and hanging out for your waterfall or hiking fix? Then this tour is perfect for you! Click HERE to see what it is all about.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

There are plenty of options for places to stay in Siem Reap. The only real question you have to ask yourself, is what area you prefer to stay in. For me, it only comes down to two things. Do you want to be close to the center, where you are walking distance to the nightlife and markets? Or if these things don’t bother you, would you rather be a bit further away?

One thing to note about visiting Siem Reap, is that nothing is really close to the temples. You can get CLOSER to the temples, but you will still have to hire a Tuk Tuk or some other form of transport to get there. Unless you rent a pushbike, of course, and don’t mind the exercise in the heat.

So here are some of my select accommodation options that should suit you, whatever your requirements.

Luxury Options

If you want luxury, then check this place out! It is located centrally, right across the road from the Royal Palace. When the King comes to Town, he doesn’t even stay in his Palace, instead opting to stay at Raffles. The references don’t come any better than that!

If you are after somewhere closer to the Temples, and would also like to be able to bring your Golf Clubs with you, then take a look at the Sofitel. A world class Golf Resort, plus 5 star Spa will only add to your stay at one of the Premier Hotels in Cambodia!

Uncle Sam Villa

We Stayed for a few nights in Uncle Sam Villa on our last trip. If you are looking for a nice, homely feel that is comfortable and clean, then Uncle Sam is right for you. It is walking distance to Pub Street, the markets and street food. Plus, they have a cute dog that will welcome you home every night.

Another place that we have stayed for over a week was Central Corner d’Angkor. It was a wonderful place that we really enjoyed. All the rooms face onto the pool, and the staff are amazing. This place is a little down the road from the central area, but we still walked every night, and it takes around 10 – 15 minutes.

Budget Options

Onederz Hostel is centrally located, and has the distinction of being rated the best hostel in Cambodia, and one of the best in the world! You can’t get a better budget option than that!

I have had several friends stay at Revolution recently and they can’t stop raving about it. The friendly atmosphere and great facilities are a surefire winner!

Looking for the best Budget accommodation? Hostelworld have you covered with all of the very best budget friendly accommodation around town. Check them out at THIS LINK .

Getting around in Siem Reap is pretty easy. The city isn’t really that big, and the area where all the hotel accommodation can be found is even smaller. This means that where ever you are, you are pretty much in walking distance of anything. Pub Street, the markets, restaurants. They are all close enough that you don’t have to worry too much.

When it comes to getting to Angkor Wat, or any of the other temples, you will need transport. Also, if you have a big night out, you might not feel like a walk home. So in these cases, you will need to know the best ways to get around. In that case, you will find it easy in Siem Reap.

So here is my guide to Siem Reap ways to get around.

• Walking – does this need any more explanation?
• Tuk Tuk – This will be your main form of transport in Siem Reap. It is easy, they are absolutely everywhere, and unlike places like Bangkok , will not try to scam you. This doesn’t mean you won’t have to negotiate though! Also use Tuk Tuk to get to Angkor Wat. See THIS article for more details.
• Taxi – Like every other city on earth, you can hire a good old taxi. Tuk Tuk’s are cheaper though.
• Grab – Have the Grab App installed on your phone, and organize a Grab (like Uber). A lot of the time it just ends up being a taxi anyway, but for cheaper Grab prices.
• Bicycle – An easy and very popular way to get around for the locals. You can hire a bicycle pretty easily, and the city is very flat.
• Scooter – Hire your own scooter and ride. This is what I choose to do in Bali and Thailand. Just make sure you have your license, international drivers permit and insurance!

If there is one thing that Siem Reap doesn’t lack, its nice places to eat. So next up in my guide to Siem Reap, I am going to give you a quick rundown of some of my favorite places that you can find a good feed. Some are local, and some are western foods.

• The Riverside Street Food Markets – We found this place while walking from Uncle Sam’s to Pub Street. We never made it to Pub Street that night, and just kept coming back here as the food was SO GOOD. Find it just opposite TH I S café along the Riverside park.
• Pub Street – There are several places within Pub Street that have great food, so I will just say “Pub Street” to cover them all. Take a stroll down this iconic street and check the curbside menu’s. Also, the 50 cent beers are a big drawcard! Click HERE for Google Maps location.
• Angkor Taco’s – This place has really good prices, amazing Taco’s, and everyone raves about the Burrito’s! Click HERE to find it.
• Labo Pizza Bar – This place is run by a friendly Italian who makes the most wonderful Pizza Squares. You don’t need to order a full pizza, so it is great for a mid afternoon snack, or a full dinner! Click HERE to find it.
• Eva Luna Cambodia – This little Café only opened during Covid, but the food and coffee is so good that it is doing very well. We found it by accident, and absolutely loved it! Find it HERE on Google Maps.

If you are heading to Cambodia, then you will want to check your Visa requirements, as well as any other documents you might need. As an Australian, I needed a Visa to get into the country, and you probably do as well. Check everything in advance to avoid any hassle down the line by simply using the handy tool that I have provided below!

The other thing that you need to make sure of is your Travel Insurance. I never go anywhere without my SafetyWing Policy safe and secure. They will cover so many things that no other company does. You can even get your policy when already on the road!

Do yourself a favor and check them out at THIS LINK .

Many travelers that visit Siem Reap will be moving slowly through South East Asia. For the backpackers, it is a major stop along the famed Banana Pancake Trail. Whether you are moving around on a budget, or seeing this part of the world in style, you will still be heading in the same directions. And this Guide to Siem Reap is striving to cater for everyone!

So, depending upon what direction you came into Siem Reap, you might want to think about one of these options once you leave.

• Phnom Penh – The capital of Cambodia has a lot to offer, especially if you want to learn more about the turbulent and violent past. It is also the best hub to head to in order to catch a flight Internationally, if the option is not available from Siem Reap.
• Bangkok – You can easily catch a bus or flight to Bangkok from Siem Reap.
• Koh Rong – The beautiful islands of Southern Cambodia are only a short trip away. Unspoilt and not teeming with the tourist crowds you will find in Thailand, they are a wonderful option.
• Chiang Mai – This is a popular option to travel directly from Siem Reap for those that want to explore more temples, and continue to immerse themselves in culture.

I hope you have enjoyed my Complete Guide to Siem Reap. It is an amazing place to visit, and the temples of Angkor Archeological Park are a once in a lifetime experience!

If there is anything that I haven’t covered, and you need more information, then just drop me a line and I will try to answer it for you!

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Cambodia’s riverside city is best known as the departure point for exploring UNESCO World Heritage site Angkor Wat and other atmospheric ruins in Angkor Archaeological Park. Temple Town, as it’s fondly called, is an engaging destination in its own right, with an abundance of things to do, from bird-watching on Southeast Asia’s largest lake to horseback riding through rice fields and zip-lining through forest canopies. Hands-on travelers can learn to dance like an ethereal Apsara or master the medieval martial art Bokator, while foodies might discover the secrets of cooking Cambodian cuisine or learn to shake a killer Khmer cocktail.

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When’s the best time to go to Siem Reap?

High season is from December to February. It’s the coolest and driest period and the most popular time to visit. While the weather is loveliest, the city and temples are crowded, so you’ll need to rise in the darkness to start exploring the temples at sunrise, before the tour groups arrive. March and April are the hottest months and best avoided if you can’t handle the heat. The days cool a little in May when the early rains come. June, when monsoon really kicks in, is wet, yet the countryside quickly greens and remains lush through to November. For many, the wet or green season is the best time to visit.

How to get around Siem Reap

As the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park, one of Asia’s star attractions and Cambodia’s main tourist destination, Siem Reap’s international airport is busy, with frequent flights arriving from around Asia. The petite airport is not equipped to handle large long-haul flights, so you’ll likely fly via Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or any number of Asian capitals, before transferring to a smaller jet. This means you can take advantage of low-cost airlines like Air Asia. If traveling overland, good bus services exist between Hanoi and the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh (5 hours) and from there to Siem Reap (7-8 hours), and from Bangkok via the border town of Poipet to Siem Reap (8-9 hours). It’s also possible to take a train from Bangkok and then a bus from the border.

Taxis (US$7) or tuk-tuks ($6), pre-arranged with your hotel, are the main wheels from the airport to your hotel, but once in town, it’s tuk-tuk all the way. Expect to pay $1–$2 for short journeys around town, while day trips to the temples can cost $10–$20 depending on the duration and distance. If you’re not afraid of chaotic traffic and reckless unlicensed local drivers, you can rent bicycles for as little as $1–$2 a day for a basic bike, and up to $5 a day for a top quality mountain bike. Foreign tourists are prohibited from riding motorbikes for safety reasons.

Can’t miss things to do in Siem Reap

Spend a Sunday evening on Road 60 on the edge of town, tucking into street food and sipping cold beers on roadside picnic mats. Cambodians call it “the local’s Pub Street,” although it has much more of a family vibe and fun-fair feel, with its few simple kids’ rides, than the backpacker party street—also known as Pub Street—in the center of town. It should not be confused with another “Khmer Pub Street,” a gritty street off Airport Road (National Highway 6), lined with local beer gardens (no signs in English) and karaoke or “KTVs.” If you feel like singing karaoke, head to the Corner bar instead.

Food and drink to try in Siem Reap

Cambodian cuisine is one of Asia’s most misunderstood. The better-known Royal Thai Cuisine of neighboring Thailand was actually born from Royal Khmer Cuisine. Restaurants such as Sugar Palm and Chanrey Tree serve up refined renditions of home-style Cambodian food, while Cuisine Wat Damnak, recently voted Best Restaurant in Cambodia among Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, is renowned for its creative contemporary Cambodian cuisine. Markets, roadside stalls, mobile carts, and roaming vendors offer tasty street-food treats such as soups, barbecue skewered meats, noodle dishes, and pork and rice, while countless international restaurants serve up everything from authentic Korean and Indian to Italian and French cuisines.

Culture in Siem Reap

As you’d expect from a civilization that built the Angkor temples, the Khmer Empire was artistically rich, with talented sculptors, artists, dancers, and musicians. Art and sculpture are on display in the elaborate carvings and bas-reliefs on the temple walls and at Angkor National Museum. Nightly Apsara dance performances, accompanied by classical Khmer musicians, are held at dozens of venues around the city. Wat Bo Pagoda is the location of twice-weekly shows of traditional shadow puppetry and musical ensembles, while the Bambu Stage showcases contemporary dance and the big top behind the Museum is home to nightly performances by the quirky Phare Cambodian Circus.

The biggest party of the year for Cambodians is Khmer New Year, celebrated around the same time as Thailand’s Songkran, though less about water fights and more about pagoda activities such as making offerings to the monks, worshipping ancestors, and washing Buddha statues. While the main holiday lasts over three days, Cambodians will take a week to 10 days off if they are able to return to their hometowns. In Siem Reap, it’s the only time of year that Pub Street and Angkor Archaeological Park teem with groups of Cambodian friends and families. Traditional games, dancing, and concerts take place around the park, including in front of Angkor Wat. It’s a wonderful time to visit.

Local travel tips for Siem Reap

The average three-day stay in Siem Reap isn’t nearly long enough. Try to spend a week to explore the best of the Khmer Empire archaeological sites and more off-the-beaten-path ruins, as well as to experience the city beyond the temples.

Local Resources

Phnom Penh Post Cambodia Daily Siem Reap guide Tourism Cambodia Siem Reap Post Grantourismo

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Lara Dunston

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Siem Reap Travel Guide — Best Tips for First-Time Travelers

July 30, 2023 · In: Travel Guides and Recommendations

Siem Reap, Cambodia is a must-visit destination for any traveler interested in ancient temples and delicious food. This Siem Reap travel guide will provide you with all the important information you need to plan your trip to Siem Reap, from where to stay, what to do, how to get around, and what to expect.

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Siem Reap Travel Guide

Where is siem reap.

Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia, located on the banks of the Siem Reap River. It is the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the ruins of the Khmer Empire, including the iconic Angkor Wat temple.

The best time to visit Siem Reap

The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. However, the dry season is also the most popular time to visit, so it is advisable to book your flights and accommodation in advance.

How long is enough time to visit Siem Reap

The amount of time you need to visit Siem Reap depends on your interests and pace of travel. If you are mainly interested in seeing the Angkor temples, you will need at least 3-4 days. However, if you also want to explore the city of Siem Reap and the surrounding area, you will need more time.

How to get around in Siem Reap

There are a few different ways to get around in Siem Reap. You can walk, take a tuk-tuk, or rent a bicycle or motorbike. Walking is a good option if you’re staying in the city center, but it can be hot and tiring if you’re going to be exploring the temples. Tuk-tuks are the most popular way to get around, and they’re relatively inexpensive. You can also rent a bicycle or motorbike, which is a great way to see the countryside.

Where to stay in Siem Reap

🌴 Check out the best deals in Siem Reap Where I stayed in Siem Reap: Lub D Hostel

There are a wide variety of accommodation options in Siem Reap, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. If you are on a budget, you can find a dorm bed in a hostel for as little as $5 per night. If you are looking for something more luxurious, you can stay in a 5-star hotel for around $200 per night.

What to see and do in Siem Reap

There are many things to see and do in Siem Reap, in addition to visiting the Angkor temples. Here are a few of the highlights:

Siem Reap center

One of the best ways to experience the Siem Reap center is to simply walk around and take in the sights and sounds. There are many interesting things to see, from the bustling markets to the ancient temples.

If you are interested in learning more about Khmer culture and history, I recommend visiting the National Museum of Cambodia. The museum houses a collection of artifacts that date back to the Angkor period.

Another great way to experience the Siem Reap center is to visit the smaller temples that are located in the area. These temples are not as well-known as Angkor Wat, but they are still worth a visit.

Floating villages

The Floating Villages of Siem Reap are a unique and fascinating place to visit. These villages are home to thousands of people who live on stilts in the Tonle Sap Lake. The villages are a great way to learn about the traditional way of life in Cambodia and to experience the local culture.

There are several floating villages in the Siem Reap area, but the most popular ones are Chong Kneas, Kampong Phluk, and Kampong Khleang. Chong Kneas is the closest to Siem Reap, and it is the most touristy of the three villages. Kampong Phluk is a bit further away, but it is a more traditional village. Kampong Khleang is the most remote of the three villages, but it is also the most authentic.

No matter which village you choose to visit, you will be able to see how the villagers live their lives on the water. You will see them fishing, farming, and going about their daily activities. You will also be able to visit their homes, which are built on stilts over the water.

Pub Street and night markets

Pub Street is the heart of the nightlife in Siem Reap. There are many bars and clubs to choose from, as well as street food vendors. The street is always crowded, especially on weekends, so be prepared for a party atmosphere!

The night markets are a great place to find souvenirs and bargains. There are many stalls selling everything from clothes and jewelry to souvenirs and handicrafts.

Khmer cuisine

Siem Reap is a great place to try Khmer cuisine, which is a blend of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese influences. Some of the most popular dishes include amok (fish curry), laap (minced meat salad), and num banh chok (rice noodles with fish). Khmer cuisine is also known for its use of fresh herbs and spices. Many dishes are made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.

How to go to Angkor Wat from the Siem Reap center

The Angkor Archaeological Park is home to some of the most impressive temples in the world. The most famous temple is Angkor Wat, but there are many other temples worth visiting, such as Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Ta Prohm.

There are several ways to get to Angkor Wat from the Siem Reap center. The most popular ways are by motorbike, tuk-tuk, or car.

If you are staying in the Siem Reap center, it will take you about 20 minutes to get to Angkor Wat by motorbike or tuk-tuk. You can also take a public bus, but this will take longer.

If you want to join a group tour, there are many hostels and hotels in Siem Reap that offer this service. You can also hire a private tour guide, which is a good option if you want to have a more personalized experience.

Tips for first-time travelers to Siem Reap

What to pack.

• Pack or wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong.
• Drink plenty of water, as it can be hot and humid.
• Pack clothes that will cover your shoulders and legs. You will need to wear these when you visit temples in Siem Reap.

What to expect

• Siem Reap is a bit more expensive than other Southeast Asian cities I’ve visited , but it still offers great value for money. A meal at a local restaurant will cost around 4-6 USD, and a short tuk-tuk ride will set you back 8-10 USD.
• The traffic in Siem Reap can be chaotic , so be prepared for narrow streets, motorbikes everywhere, and a lack of traffic laws. If you’re not used to driving in this kind of environment, it’s best to take a tuk-tuk or walk.
• Siem Reap is generally a safe city , but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft
• Cambodians will not accept 100 USD bills that have any tears or damage. Make sure to check your bills carefully, and take care not to tear them.
• A short 4-5 day stay in Siem Reap is enough to see the highlights . There are still not as many things to do in Siem Reap as in other Southeast Asian cities, so you won’t need to stay longer.

How to stay safe

• Be aware of your surroundings.  This is especially important in crowded areas, such as Pub Street or the Night Market. Keep your belongings close to you, and don’t let anyone distract you.
• Don’t walk alone at night.  If you must walk alone at night, take a tuk-tuk.
• Don’t flash your valuables.  This includes your money, jewelry, and electronics.
• Be aware of scams.  There are a number of scams that target tourists in Siem Reap. Be on the lookout for people who offer you free tours or gifts, or who try to sell you counterfeit goods.
• Book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season.
• Get a visa before you go, or you can get one on arrival at the airport.
• Be respectful of the temples, the people, and the local culture.

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The Ultimate Siem Reap Travel Guide

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Exploring Siem Reap Where to stay Where to eat How to get around How to get there

If you’re visiting Siem Reap soon, you’ve come to the right place. After reading this guide, you’ll know which area to stay in, where to find the best restaurants and how to get around this vibrant city in Cambodia.

What to expect in Siem Reap

Once colonised by France, Siem Reap is a small city with a French flair. Scattered around the city you’ll find French-style homes and shops.

But a taste of France, or a good croissant, isn’t why most people visit Siem Reap. Instead, over two million visitors each year come to explore one of the most spectacular religious monuments in the world. Siem Reap is the gateway to the world famous Angkor Watt.

Built in the 12th century during the Khmer Empire, this incredible Buddhist temple complex boasts over a thousand individual temples for you to explore. And somehow it gets even better! During sunrise, the warm morning glow provides a breathtaking silhouette of the temple’s spires unlike any other.

And when you’re not walking around Angkor Wat in utter amazement, there’s a very different way to occupy your time…Pub Street. Comprised of cheerful Irish pubs, fancy cocktail bars, and cuisine from all around the globe, you’ll be hard-pressed not to find something to satiate your hunger (including delicacies like scorpions).

Is Siem Reap worth visiting?

Of course Siem Reap is worth visiting, purely just to see Angkor Wat. You can’t come to Cambodia and not visit one of it’s most popular sites. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, covering an area four times the size of Vatican City and maybe one of the most mind-blowing Buddhist temples you’ll ever see. Is that something you want to miss out on?

How many days should you spend in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a relatively small city that aside from partying and visiting Angkor Wat, there isn’t a ton of exciting things to do. Your days might be better spent exploring somewhere else in Cambodia.

We recommend three days in Siem Reap. Whilst Angkor Wat can be done in one day, we think that two days is better. You can take your time exploring the temples, but you’re not spending so long there that you get ‘templed out’. On the third day, you can explore the other sights of the city, or take some time to relax.

To help you make the most of your time in Siem Reap, we’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Siem Reap .

Where to stay in Siem Reap

Siem Reap may not be the biggest city in Cambodia, but there are still a number of areas to choose from when it comes to where you should stay. You’ll need to consider your budget, accommodation and if peace and quiet is important to you.

Here are our favourite areas to stay in Siem Reap:

Location #1: Old French Quarter — centre of the action

Best for: being at the centre of the city and well connected to everywhere, including Angkor Wat.

Who is it for: those visiting Siem Reap for the first time. Being at the centre of the action, you get a good feel of what the city is like. Plus, it puts you within walking distance to most important attractions in the city.

Don’t miss: the stunning architecture. As the name suggests, the Old French Quarter has a touch of French influence which can be seen in it’s colonial buildings, shops and cafes.

Biggest downside: don’t forget that this is the centre of the city, so depending on where your accommodation is, it could be quite noisy.

Accommodation in the Old French Quarter

Even though you’re at the centre of the city, you can easily find affordable accommodation. A cool thing about staying in the Old French Quarter is that a lot of the old mansions have been turned into boutique and luxury hotels.

Private rooms in the Old French Quarter start from $10 a night.

Location #2: Wat Bo Road

Best for: a more relaxing stay in Siem Reap. Wat Bo Road is one of the main roads in Siem Reap, yet the area is much more relaxing than being right in the city centre. The neighbourhood has more greenery and is a bit more quiet.

Who is it for: those wanting to still be close to everything, but looking for a more laid back vibe.

Don’t miss: Wat Bo Temple will be on your doorstep if you stay here. It’s one of the oldest temples in the province.

Biggest downside: you may have to walk a few extra minutes to get to other places in the city. It’s the only downside we could find!

Accommodation in Wat Bo Road

Wat Bo Road is where you’ll find some of the cheapest accommodation in Siem Reap — affordable homestays, budget hotels and hostels. You can also book luxurious stays without having to splash too much cash.

Location #3: Old Market — for unforgettable nightlife

Best for: experiencing the best nightlife in Siem Reap. The Old Market is where you’ll find Pub Street, a street packed with lively bars and drunk revellers.

Who is it for: visitors looking to party all night long and make the most of Cambodia’s cheap bars.

Don’t miss: the lively bars. That’s honestly the only and main reason why you would stay in this area.

Biggest downside: if you’re not looking to party then the loud music and drunk travellers might get slightly annoying after a while.

Accommodation in Old Market

You’ll find a number of hostels close to Pub Street, making the most of their target audience — backpackers looking to party. The Old Market is still situated in the city centre, so accommodation prices are very similar to those found in the Old French Quarter.

Best places to eat in Siem Reap

Every day Siem Reap’s, already good, gastronomy scene seems to be getting better, with new spots popping up all the time. One of our favourite things about Siem Reap’s food scene are the number of restaurants and cafes that have social causes attached to them, some of which we’ve included in our best eats below:

Spoons Cafe and Restaurant — delicious food with a social cause

Spoons Cafe and Restaurant goes beyond serving tasty food, it enables underprivileged Cambodian young adults to become self-supporting through education, training, and employment opportunities in the hospitality industry. To date, they’ve helped over 400 young adults start a career in hospitality.

They teach the students how to prepare authentic Cambodian dishes using the freshest locally produced ingredients, which ends up on your plate as a delicious and filling meal.

Pou Restaurant and Bar — creative and innovative dishes

Ever wanted to try red tree ants? Well at Pou Restaurant and Bar you can! Chef Mengley says that ‘to be great, food should be fun yet sophisticated, innovative yet familiar and expressive.’ He certainly knows what he’s doing when it comes to food. It’s incredible!

On the menu you’ll find innovative dishes made with only high quality produce that truly do justice to Cambodian cuisine. A must visit in Siem Reap!

Sambo Khmer & Thai Restaurant — cheap and cheerful Cambodian cuisine

Looking for cheap and tasty traditional dishes, then we have just the spot for you. Sambo has a huge selection of dishes to choose from, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The staff and ambience of this place is also what makes it special. They always have a smile on their face!

How to get around in Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a relatively small city, which makes getting around super easy. Most places are within walking distance, but if that’s not the case, there are plenty of other modes of transport available.

If you’re only exploring the city, most places that you’ll want to see are within walking distance. It’s a good way to burn off all the delicious Cambodian food that you’re eating!

If you want to travel a bit further, and turn getting from A to B into a bit more of an adventure then we recommend using a bicycle to get around. They’re a great way to explore Siem Reap, especially if you want to visit the temples or explore the countryside. Many hotels and guesthouses offer bicycles for rent, and there are plenty of bike rental shops throughout the city.

Bike rental starts from $3/day.

You’ll see these three-wheeled speed machines whizzing about all over Siem Reap. To flag one down, all you need to do is stick out a hand and within seconds one is likely to stop. Another way to hail a tuk-tuk is using the Grab app or PassApp — note that you’ll need a Cambodian number to be able to use PassApp.

The advantage of using an app to get a tuk-tuk is that you’ll be guaranteed that you’re paying a fair price. You won’t have to haggle like you do with the ones on the street. To give you an idea of fair tuk-tuk prices in Siem Reap:

• Siem Reap International Airport to city centre — $5
• 1-3 km ride — $1-2
• Tour of Angkor Wat temple — $15

We agree that tuk-tuks aren’t the most comfortable form of transport, especially for longer journeys. They’re more expensive than tuk-tuks, but more comfortable and often have air conditioning.

Like with tuk-tuks, you’ll find them driving on the streets and waiting outside popular spots in the city. You can also use Grab or PassApp to hail a taxi and guarantee a good price.

How to get to Siem Reap

Now that you’ve finished reading this guide, you’re almost ready for your adventure in Siem Reap. The next step is to create your personalised itinerary with our top picks of what to do in Siem Reap . Simply choose your favourite activities and places to visit, and you’re all set to make lasting memories in Siem Reap.

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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

HELLO HOW MANY DAYS WOULD YOU RECCOMEND TO VISIT THE MUST SEE PLACES ? THANK YOU!

For Cambodia, I would recommend at least 3 days Siem Reap, 1 day Phnom Penh and a week or more to explore the Southern beaches (and Kampot). I spend myself 1 month and found it still too short so you can make it as long as you want of course:).

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Siem Reap Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on March 20th, 2024

Planning your visit to Siem Reap? I’ll show you how with my Siem Reap itinerary in this detailed travel guide blog! Take the extra time to fully appreciate the incredible UNESCO world World Heritage Site, local Khmer food, and smiling locals!

A visit to Siem Reap is a must-in-a-lifetime experience for those traveling in Southeast Asia. Located in northern Cambodia, Siem Reap is the gateway to one of the greatest wonders of the world, Angkor Wat. This wonderful city should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

The stunning Angkor Wat is the largest and best-preserved temple within the complex of the “Angkor Archaeological Park”, a UNESCO appointment since 1992. As the best-preserved temple at the site, Angkor Wat is the only one to have remained a significant religious center since its foundation. The temple is at the top of the high classical style of Khmer architecture.

Siem Reap has so many historical and cultural perspectives that it deserves a few days of visit. I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Siem Reap twice and it is still amazing to see the beauty of this place. Compared to reading this in a book for watching it online, walking along in the well-preserved temple made me cry. It’s one of those places that you need to go and experience for yourself to know how amazing the whole thing is, especially if you’re into temples, culture, and traditions.

In this Siem Reap travel guide blog , we will share the best things to do, food to eat, and some useful travel tips and information to help planning on Siem Reap itinerary. Read on to learn more about the beauty of Siem Reap!

Table of Contents

Best Time To Visit Siem Reap

The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to early February . These are the best time to go to Siem Reap as the weather is more pleasant. But this is also very busy and crowded during this peak tourist season.

It is followed by the hottest season in Siem Reap from May to mid of June. The temperature can be reaching up to 38°C at noon. While June to November is the rainy season in Siem Reap. It is cooler but does expect rainfall, especially in late afternoon.

I’ve been to Siem Reap twice – the first time at end of November and more recently in mid of May. November is a great time to visit as the weather is more pleasant but we did experience late afternoon rain during our trip. While my second trip during May was extremely hot and humid. We toured around Angkor Wat in the morning and choose to rest at the hotel in the late afternoon due to can’t withstand the heat.

Where To Stay

Depending on what you want to do in Siem Reap this will largely determine where to stay in Siem Reap. Generally, as long as you stay within walking distance of Pub Street, then you shouldn’t have any problems getting around. Most importantly, the accommodation price is very reasonable. Here you can enjoy a luxurious stay at a cheaper price in Siem Reap.

We recommended staying in Old French Quarter, Old Market, Wat Bo, and Taphul Village if you’re getting Siem Reap for visit. Here are the popular pick for staying in Siem Reap:

Luxury : Golden Temple Residence offers elegant accommodation in the heart of Siem Reap, within walking distance from the lively Pub Street. Alternatively, Royal Crown Hotel & Spa  offer spacious and clean room for your stay in Siem Reap. The location is perfect, at the very center of Wat Bo.

High-Range : Chateau d’Angkor La Residence is one of the popular accommodations that is centrally located in the Old French Quarter. It is within walking distance to the famous Old Market (Phsar Chas), as well as the lively Pub Street.

Budget hostel : Onederz Siem Reap and Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap is popular hostels among budget travelers to Siem Reap. Both hostels are located in Wat Bo and within walking distance of the lively Pub Street which is great for street food and nightlife.

For a full list of hotels and hostels, check out my detailed Siem Reap accommodation guide: Where To Stay in Siem Reap .

Siem Reap Travel Guide

To get the most from your visit, you must plan the Siem Reap itinerary. The famous ruins are located less than six kilometers from the city. But Angkor Wat itself is huge and the number of temples in the wider area is staggering. This is best to plan before your trip especially if you want to watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat.

Several set ‘loop’ itineraries practicing by the locals based on the distance of each attraction. You can customize your route or choose from it. But no matter what you plan, you have to decide and arrange the transportation on how to visit Angkor Wat.

Most people will join the guided tour, hire a tuk-tuk or driver to take them for a temple visit. I have to admit that I’m not a huge fan of guided tours as I prefer with the flexibility to take as much time as I need in each place. However, Siem Reap is the place I recommended to sign up for a guided tour. We strongly suggest you take the English-speaking guide if you want to know more about the history of Angkor Wat.

The reason is simple! Having access to a tour guide’s local knowledge is invaluable in a place like Siem Reap, where the history runs deep and the culture is complex. Here is a few popular tours that we recommend when visiting Siem Reap. Free feel to take a look.

Angkor Wat Admission Ticket – Must Have!

• Angkor Wat Sunrise Small-Group Tour from Siem Reap – Most Popular!
• 2-Day Angkor Wat with Sunrise Small Group Tour
• Angkor Wat Tour Small-Group from Siem Reap
• Private Angkor Wat Tour from Siem Reap

Siem Reap Travel Tips : Most Angkor tours do not include tickets to the park. So you need to buy your own ticket before joining the tour. Make sure to communicate early to avoid any unwanted confusion.

3 to 4 Days Siem Reap Itinerary

In this section of the Siem Reap travel guide blog, I’ve outlined what to do and places to go when visiting Siem Reap. This is the best itinerary after gathering useful information from my two actual visits. Hope this can inspire you when you planning on the Siem Reap itinerary.

Day 1 Siem Reap itinerary: Arrived at Siem Reap International Airport. Checked-in hotel and get ready for the Angkor Pass to enter Angkor Wat. Alternate option with a sunset walk around Phnom Bakheng.

Day 2 Siem Reap itinerary: Watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, and continue the temple’s visit to Angkor Thom Complex. Further with Big or small circuit tour. Lastly, end your day by chilling at pub street.

Day 3 Siem Reap itinerary: Continue with temple ruins visit at Big or Small Circuit or opted to the outlying temple such as Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea .

Day 4 Siem Reap itinerary: Join a half-day trip to Tonle Sap Floating village. In the late afternoon, join the Cambodian Pottery Class.

Angkor Wat Admission Ticket

For those planning to visit any temples in Angkor Archaeological Park, the Angkor Wat Admission Ticket is a MUST-HAVE! The Admission Ticket, often called Angkor Pass can be purchased at the official ticket center, located 4 km away from Siem Reap town. The counter is open from 4:30 am to 17:30 every day. A visit to the Angkor temples is free for Cambodians.

There are currently three types of standard Angkor Pass available and the prices are as below:

• 1-day pass – US$ 37 (2022: Valid for 2 days access for 2 consecutive days)
• 3-day pass – US$ 62 (2022: Valid for 5 days access within 10 days, non-consecutive days)
• 5-day pass – US$ 72 (2022: Valid for 10 days access within a month, non-consecutive days)

Siem Reap Travel Tips : The ticket is signification increased in 2017 but it is also gaining additional days for each pass type. You basically gain extra days to fully utilized on temple visits.

Every time you enter the park a hole will be punched on your ticket at the different checkpoints. If you are getting the admission ticket after 16:00, you can gaining the access to the temples. Go for a sunset walk around Phnom Bakheng (Bakheng Hill), just make sure they don’t punch your ticket.

Things To Do in Siem Reap Itinerary

Angkor Wat is the reason most people visit Siem Reap. I’ve been to Siem Reap and visited the stunning temples two times now – once on a tour, and once on a tuk-tuk. Don’t miss sunrise at Angkor Wat as this is truly magical. It’s recommended to continue touring other temples as it gets very hot in the afternoon.

Here are the things to do on your Siem Reap itinerary:

Angkor Archaeological Park

• Watching Sunrise in Angkor Wat
• Angkor Thom (Baphuon and Bayon Temple)
• Big Circuit or Small Circuit Tour (Ta Prohm, Ta Som, and more)

Banteay Srei

• Chill in Pub Street

Siem Reap Night Market

Try the khmer cuisine, foot massage, tonle sap floating village, cambodian pottery class.

Stretching over some 400 square kilometers, the Angkor Archaeological Park is one of a series of gems strung through the forests north of Siem Reap. The massive temple complex offers a deep insight into the history of the amazing and thriving culture. In 1992, Angkor Archaeological Park has declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Below is the highlighted temples that should not be a miss on your Siem Reap itinerary:

Generally, the temple ruins can broadly be categorized into few groups:

• Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom – Bayon and Baphuon temples, The Elephant Terrace, The Terrace of the Leper King, Five entrance gates, Phnom Bakheng.
• Small Circuit (Le Petit Circuit) for major sites to the east of Angkor Thom – Ta Keo, Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei, Sras Srang, Prasat Kravan.
• Big Circuit (Le Grand Circuit) for major sites north and further out east – Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup.
• Roluos Temples which located 15km east from Siem Reap along National Highway 6 – Bakong, Lolei, Preah Ko.
• Outlying temples which located over 20km from Angkor Wat – Banteay Srei, Kbal Spean, Beng Mealea, Phnom Krom.

Among all the temples, Angkor Wat is the most popular and most visited by travelers. Beyond that, there are also many smaller, less popular temples worth a visit. Don’t miss the Angkor Thom with the amazing Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm, and Preah Khan are must-sees! Spend your day visiting those fabulous temples and take ample time looking at the carving and understanding the historical details of the temples.

Take note that distances between the temples can be fairly away. Of course, you can mix and match freely. But those tuk-tuks and guides can share their expertise on how to visit the temples effectively with their best Siem Reap itinerary in hand.

Sunrise in Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat Temple is a recognized architectural masterpiece and one of the finest monuments in the World. Being the largest religion in the world in South East Asia, the stunning Angkor Wat is famous for its magnificent bas-reliefs sculpting and the mightiness of its five towers.

Catching a sunrise photo in front of the reflecting pool of Angkor Wat is practically a rite of passage for any visitor to Siem Reap.

During our trip to Siem Reap, we settled on the first day at the Siem Reap hotel stayed . We started the next day with the sunrise at Angkor Wat. In the early morning, we left our hotel before sunrise and entered Angor Wat followed the advice of the tour guide.

When we walked to the main entrance, we could hear the monks beating drums. The closer we walked there, the more crowded it became. There are thousands of people who are also waiting for the sunrise just like us. We were lucky and able to see the sunrise over the temple. Truly magical!

Pro Tips : Depending on the time of year, typically the sun rises in Siem Reap between 5:30 and 6:30 morning. The ticket office normally only opens at 5:00 morning. So If you planning to watch the sunrise in Angkor Wat, you should get ready for your Angkor Pass earlier.

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom is the last Capital City of the Khmer kingdom and translates literally as ‘great city’.

Founded in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom is the largest complex of Khmer ruins with up to a 12-kilometer geographic site. It is a square city, surrounded by stone walls and accessed through five city gates and central by the Bayon temple.

The ancient city of Angkor Thom holds a number of other sites of interest to explore. Don’t miss the South Gate Angkor Thom with the 54 statues on each side that crosses over the river heading to Bayon Temple. Two rows of figures each carrying the body of a seven-headed naga. This gate is now by far the most visited and is the main entrance for tourists.

The Royal Palace, Prasat Chung and Mangalartha, Phimeanakas, Baphuon, Terrance of the Elephants, Terrance of the Leeper King, and much more are also worth the visit. Truly impressive with its towering ruins and intricate building towers.

Bayon Temple

The stunning Angkor Thom Complex contains the iconic Bayon Temple which is famous for its countless sculptural decorations. It is situated in the center of the Angkor Thom complex, north of Angkor Wat.

As a Buddhist temple, “Bayon” got its name after the innumerable sacred “Banyan” trees that surround its structures. It is one of the most widely recognized temples in Siem Reap and is truly eye-catching and interesting. No word to describe the feeling when you standing in front of this temple with spectacular architecture.

The Bayon Temple ruins are highly decorated with impressive bas-reliefs, Apsara figures , and most famously, the numerous smiling stone faces . There are a total of 216 faces serenely smiling faces that were originally carved on the 54 stone towers. The 54 towers are representing the original 54 states of Cambodia throughout the Bayon Temple at Angkor Thom. All the towers are very well preserved, with a very interesting history behind them.

Located around 1 km from Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm is an incredible temple nestled among rainforests built by the Khmer King, Jayarvaman. It is one of the famous attractions to visit in Siem Reap and gaining popularity as this is where the setting for Angelina Jolie’s Tomb Raider movie was released in 2001.

Ta Prahm makes for very interesting photo opportunities. The temple has been overgrown with trees where the tree roots appear to be dripping down the ruins. It is so incredible to see powerful forces of nature (roots of trees) have overtaken the sandstone and lava rock temples in real life. No words can explain how amazing this place is.

Banteay Srei is a beautifully preserved temple dating to around 967AD. It was originally built as a temple for the Hindu God of Destruction, Shiva, and was rediscovered in 1914 by the French. What makes the temple special are the highly decorative and elaborate carvings, walls, and pediments you will see in the Banteay Srei.

The well-preserved Banteay Srei is also known as the Lady Temple or ‘City of Women’ . The ruins are older than the other temples and have the best preserved and detailed carvings of them all. The spectacular pink sandstone and detailed intricate carvings will take your breath away.

This little gem hidden in the jungle is about 20 miles from Angkor Wat. So be prepared for about 45 minutes of traveling to get to the Banteay Srei. The temple ruins are slightly isolated from the main complex but still worth the visit if you have more days in your Siem Reap itinerary.

Note : Banteay Srei can be visited by utilizing an Angkor Wat pass.

Chill at Pub Street

As the name suggests, Pub Street is the center of Siem Reap and is extremely well known for its thriving nightlife and immensely diverse crowds. It is the party hub and the street is filled with a good selection of neon-lit pubs, restaurants, massage and entertainment establishments.

Pub Street comes alive during night time! The happening street is very busy and loud at night. Tourists around the world love to chill in the street after a long day’s tour in the temples.

Red Piano is the most popular bar on Pub Street as this place is the favorite frequented place by Angelina Jolie when filming the Hollywood blockbuster “Tomb Raider” in Cambodia. Angelina’s favorite concoction (Cointreau, tonic, and lime) has also made it into the menu, now known as the Tomb Raider. You will get the free drink if you’re lucky to be the tenth buyer of the drink!

We visited Pub Street a couple times during our visit to Siem Reap. We enjoyed touring the various shops and restaurants to see what was on offer. There are also plenty of eating places, from western restaurants to traditional street food. It is also the perfect place to unwind with chilled beers and a cocktail.

We also enjoyed our local food hunting at Pub Street and it was perfect. We randomly choose one street food vendor which looks comfortable and clean. The menu comes with pictures and the price tag is ready which is helpful when ordering the food. The food tastes delicious and the price is reasonable. Good atmosphere and never felt uneasy at all.

Note : Sadly pandemic has affected Cambodia and Pub Street may not be very happening at this moment. It wasn’t too busy compared to previous years ago as some bars are shut and closed down. But it is still fun to look around at clubs and restaurants for food and entertainment on Pub Street.

Not too far from Pub Street is the Siem Reap Art Center Night Market. The market is one of the tourist spots with a wide range of goods such as souvenirs, watches, replica bags, and clothes. Ask for a discount when buying anything from the night market. Besides, you can also try exotic food like snakes and cricket at the street stall here. A nice walk-through to enjoy the local vibe.

Pub Street is full of eating places, ranging from street food booths to classy restaurants. You’ll find Khmer, Indian, European, Vietnamese, Lebanese, Chinese, Japanese, and more with a wide range of restaurants and bars along the street.

While you are there we would suggest you try the Khmer cuisine. Don’t miss Cambodia’s national dishes, Khmer steamed fish curry (amok) with a mousse-like consistency. Besides, we all fall in love with the Phnom Pleung, or Cambodian bbq which features a variety of meats that you cook yourself on small tabletop grills.

You can opted for a local food tour where you can truly enjoy the local Khmer cuisine. If you prefer to be a spectator, this alternative tour allows you to watch an Apsara performance while enjoying a Khmer dinner (tuk tuk transfer also included).

Besides, you’ll find a couple of cooking school opportunities here as well. There are Khmer Cooking classes to introduce you with an introduction to local ingredients and cooking methods. Take a look if you are interested – Khmer Cooking Class at a Local’s Home in Krong Siem Reap

After the tiring temple tour, it is best to rest and got a relaxing foot massage in the evening. There are plenty of massage parlors promoting along Pub Street. We enjoyed our foot massage in the indoor air-cond room and came back every day for a massage. The price is extremely cheap but remember to haggle the price.

There is also the fish massage where you sit at the edge of the fish tank and immerse your feet so the tiny fish can eat the dead skin off your feet and provide a gentle massage. I did not try as worry about the hygiene issue. Alternatively, enjoy a luxurious detox package in Siem Reap’s well-loved establishment, Spa Khmer.

Check for more detail : Spa Khmer Luxury Experience .

If you want a break from them and see something different from Cambodian temple ruins, Tonle Sap Floating Village is a really nice option. Tonle Sap Lake is one of the biggest freshwater lakes in Southeast Asia.

The local village on the Tonle Sap such as Kompong Phluk Floating Village and Chong Kneas Floating Village is a fantastic place to see rural Cambodian life. It is wonderful to take a boat ride to see all the houses on stilts and the local community that live and work on the Tonle Sap Great Lake!

One of the interesting about Tonle Sap is the lake changes dramatically during the different seasons. Depending on the time of year, the floating village is either in or on the lake as there is a huge difference in seasonal water levels. The high stilt houseswill show you how much the water level changes from season to season.

Siem Reap Travel Tips : Beware of scams when visiting the Tonle Sap Floating Village. A mere US$20 would get you a boat for roughly an hour. We recommended you join the reputation tour where you may charge a higher rate on a boat tour.

Recommended Tour :  Tonle Sap Lake & Kampong Phluk Half-Day Tours from Siem Reap

The Cambodia Pottery Class is a fun class where you can experience making Cambodian ceramics in the traditional way during a pottery workshop in Siem Reap. The class is supported by young Cambodians with hearing impediments, so it is a good approach by providing them with training and employment in the ceramics industry.

We joined the Cambodian Pottery Class and have a lot of fun. We learn about making and decorating the Khmer Ceramic for this almost 2 hours pottery workshop. The masterpieces are fired overnight and sent to my hotel the next morning. It is one of the memorable souvenirs that bring back the home country from the Siem Reap trip.

Read For More Detail : Cambodian Pottery Class in Siem Reap

Final Tips on Siem Reap Itinerary

There is always useful if you know more with some handy travel tips before traveling to Siem Reap. The Angkor temple ruin is truly an amazing place full of history and stories behind. Make sure you spend the money to get a private guide if you can . An English-speaking guide is a must if you want to know more about the history of Angkor Wat.

Do wear comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella is a must-have here. For the elderly, it can be tiring as they need to climb many steps, as well as the flooring, has many ups and downs. Mind your heads and your steps as the floor is very uneven and stones stick out and can trip you if you are not careful.

The weather in Siem Reap is hot and humid. Always keep yourself hydrated and take water with you . There are lunch places and shops all around Angkor Wat if you need some rest. The price is slightly expensive but still reasonable. Ask the Tuk-tuk or driver to stop if you are taking a private tour.

Always be careful of your belonging , especially when strolling on Pub Street. We almost lost our bag when we are chilling at a bar. So please be mindful with your stuff.

How many days for a visit to Siem Reap? At least 3 days! 3 days is enough to see the major sites of Siem Reap. But if you want to explore more hidden temple ruins, it is best to spend at least 5 to 7 days for discovery.

Is Siem Reap worth the visit? Definitely Yes. The temples of Angkor are stunning and worth traveling to Siem Reap to check out. We highly recommended visiting Siem Reap at least once in a lifetime.

What is the difference between a group tour and a private tour? Private Tour gives you the freedom to decide which temples you want to visit and decide how long you want to stay. You are also freely custom your temple visit with the advice from the experience tour based on your interest.

Overview: A Trip to Siem Reap

All in all, Siem Reap is truly an amazing place to soak in the magnificence of the famous UNESCO world heritage site – Temples of Angkor Wat . It is truly an incredible, awe-inspiring, and mind-enhancing site. Most of the temples are anywhere from 900 to 1100 years old. One of the most amazing ancient sites I have ever been to.

We had an excellent time exploring the temple ruins and listening to the stories behind the carvings. It is so wonderful to admire up close how they ever created these works of art. Highly recommend a trip to Siem Reap and a must-visit once in a lifetime!

Last but not least, we hope you enjoy reading our Siem Reap Travel Guide blog. We are not able to write very detail about everything in this article. Free feel to contact me if you need any help in planning your Siem Reap itinerary.

Here are some resources and useful Siem Reap travel blogs to help you plan your trip there. Enjoy your trip to Siem Reap!

• Siem Reap Food Guide: Where and What to Eat

Where To Stay in Siem Reap: Top 5 Best Areas

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Siem Reap Food Guide: Where and What To Eat

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Check out our editor's pick on top areas and best hotels in the city if...

SIEM REAP TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

I wasn’t supposed to return, but it was just too irresistible.

The first time I set foot in the Angkor Archaeological Park, I was on a solo backpacking trip across continental Southeast Asia. Siem Reap was not part of my original route, but it would be such a shame to travel across the region without stopping at the world-famous Angkor Wat. I went out of the way, and it was a good decision. Not only was Siem Reap visually stunning and historically significant, it was also a delightfully affordable city. It didn’t put a dent on my usually fragile finances.

Two years later, my friends and housemates wanted to go backpacking across ASEAN with me, and I was tasked to build our itinerary. This time, I tried to make sure that we won’t be stopping at destinations that I had already visited on my previous journey. But as much as I wanted to skip Siem Reap, I couldn’t deny this experience to my friends. Angkor is a must-see for a reason, and they must see it too.

So I returned. The upside, I get to update this travel guide!

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING SIEM REAP

In native Khmer language, Siem Reap means “defeat of Siam,” another name for Thailand. The name was said to be bestowed upon the city by King Ang Chan, after a glorious victory over its neighboring kingdom. Thailand and Cambodia have a long history of conflict.

Siem Reap used to be a small village until an expedition into the surrounding forest began in 1901. It was also the year the Angkor was rediscovered, thus changing the fate of the quiet town. Siem Reap gained worldwide attention as the gateway to the archaeological heaven. Since then, the city has enjoyed rapid development. Accommodations from budget hostels to high-end hotels and restaurants from sidewalk eateries to lively dance clubs mushroomed along the streets of the city, lodging, feeding, and entertaining tourists, who are eager to lay eyes on the ancient structures.

Here are more bits of info you need to know about Siem Reap.

• Language : Khmer. English is starting to take roots, especially among younger generations. But don’t expect older people to speak or understand it, even those who make a living from tourism. But no worries because Cambodians are generally friendly and accommodating. I have toured Siem Reap twice with a driver who couldn’t understand a single English word, but my experience was still very pleasant. Most street signs are bilingual, too.
• Currency : Cambodian Riel (KHR). THB10,000 is roughly USD4.5, EUR 2.1, SGD 3.4, PHP 130 (as of September 2018). However, in touristy areas, the US dollar is often used and widely accepted. You’ll find menu prices (even in street eateries) and tour rates both in riel and USD dollar.
• Modes of payment : Cash. Although some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards, smaller establishments only accept cash.
• Electricity Info : 220V, 5-0Hz. Most usual power sockets are Type A (accepts plugs with two flat pins), but Type C sockets (for two round pins) are not uncommon.

WHERE TO STAY IN SIEM REAP

While biking around the city, I noticed that most of the high-end hotels lie along the road going to Angkor from the city proper. But the more budget-friendly ones are just around the Old Market area.

Aside from the budget, another thing to consider when picking a place to stay is how you plan to spend your time in the city. If you’re the type who likes getting drunk and dancing at the club at night, you might want to consider choosing a hotel or hostel near Pub Street. Actually, I highly recommend this location (around the Pub Street area) because there’s so much to do. The Angkor Night Market is also just around the corner.

But here are the top budget hotels and hostels as rated by online users as of May 2017. We considered only properties with at least 20 reviews.

Top Siem Reap Budget Hotels

• Bopha Residence . Check Rates and Availability .
• The Golden Gecko Villa . Check Rates and Availability .
• Visoth Boutique Hotel . Check Rates and Availability .
• Oriental Siem Reap . Check Rates and Availability .

Top Siem Reap Hostels

• Oasis Capsules Hostel . Check Rates and Availability .
• Mini Hut Hostel . Check Rates and Availability .
• Onederz Hostel Siem Reap . Check Rates and Availability .
• Pool Party Hostel . Check Rates and Availability .

Search for more: Siem Reap Hotels

HOW TO GET TO SIEAM REAP

Siem Reap is easily accessible from many other cities in Southeast Asia. Direct flights from Manila, Phnom Penh, Singapore, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City are available.

You can also travel by land from other parts of Indochina like Bangkok, Phnom Penh, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Bangkok to Siem Reap

From Bangkok, you have three options: by plane, by bus, and by train. Obviously, the plane is the fastest but most expensive option. The lowest fares are offered by Thai AirAsia (travel time: 1 hour) and Thai Smile Airways (travel time: 1 hour and 25 minutes). If you book in advance, the rates are around USD 57.

If you take the bus or train, know that you will have to go first to the border town of Aranyaprathet, go through Immigration, emerge in Poipet on the Cambodian side, and take the government bus to Siem Reap from there.

We created a separate more detailed post about it here: BANGKOK TO SIEM REAP by TRAIN or BUS

Manila to Siem Reap

The cheapest direct flights to Siem Reap from Manila are by Cebu Pacific Air, but AirAsia offers competitive rates too, although it makes a stop in Kuala Lumpur, thus entailing a much longer travel time. One-way fares below if you book way in advance can go as low as P4500.

Siem Reap Airport to City Center

The Siem Reap city center is located just 10km southeast of the airport. It takes only 20 minutes to get there. You have plenty of options but these are the most popular.

• By Tuktuk. You’ll find tuktuk drivers eagerly awaiting passengers both within and outside the airport promises. If you charter one inside the airport, the fare is about $9. If you get one outside the airport, it shouldn’t be no more than $5. Of course, it’s slightly higher if your hotel is outside the center.
• By Taxi. If you book inside the airport, the fare is around $12.

HOW TO GET AROUND SIEM REAP

Siem reap bicycle rental.

It’s the best and the cheapest way to explore the city. Bikes will cost you $1 to $2 per day.

Siem Reap by Tuktuk

One day tour costs $12 to $15 if you’re alone or a couple, $18 if you’re a party of 3. If you really want to save money, form a group of 3 and just split the cost so you only pay $6 per person.

I simply just find someone parked at the Old Market. Done it twice and I never ran into any problem. But if you have trust issues, you can just ask hotel staff for their contacts.

Feel free to tip your tuktuk driver if you enjoyed his service. Just round off the fare. For example, the last time I was there, we paid $20 instead of $18.

Siem Reap Motorcycle Rental

You’ll find rental shops all around the city, but if you want to make sure you won’t be scammed, ask the staff of your hotel or hostel for their trusted contacts or you can just book with Klook .

Klook’s rates are at $10 for a Honda Airblade and $20 for a Honda PCX, good for 12 hours. You can also book a unit for as long as 7 days.

Siem Reap Tour Packages

Group tours and private tours are also available. It’s best if you want to be comfortable and prefer to have a guide throughout your tour. In the next section below, Things to Do, you’ll find links to arranged tours that you can join!

THINGS TO DO IN SIEM REAP

Angkor tour.

Like most tourists visiting Siem Reap, my guess is that the primary reason you want to go here is the Angkor Wat so let’s focus on it first. Angkor Wat is such a humongous site that it will take half a day (if not the whole day supposing you’re into the smallest details) to see all its galleries, libraries, corners, and towers. But that’s not the whole picture. It is just the centerpiece of the vast UNESCO inscribed Angkor Archaeological Park that hosts dozens of other temples that are equally captivating and interesting.

To get a ticket, you just need to go the Ticket Counters near the entrance to Angkor. Here are the costs as of 2017:

• 1-Day Pass: $37
• 3-Day Pass: $62
• 7-Day Pass: $72

The following links will lead you to specific detailed posts containing more information about the place and narrating my personal experiences. Feel free to browse like you’ve never browsed before.

• Angkor Thom and Bayon Temple
• Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda

Do you need a tour guide? Well, you don’t really need it. You can explore the park on your own easily. However, if you want to appreciate the structures better, I highly recommend that you get one. DO NOT get a guide at the site itself. Some people, sometimes children, will offer their services as tour guides on the spot. Many of them are scammers. I fell victim to one. They charged exorbitant fees!

To be sure, you can join a small group tour. Emphasis on SMALL. You don’t want to be part of a big horde that come in bus-fuls. Small, intimate groups ensure a more pleasant experience.

You can book with Klook here:

Cambodian Cooking Class

Offered by Beyond Unique Cooking Class, located at Sivutha Bvld corner Alley West. The class takes place at a village 10 minutes from the city center. Rates: $24 ($20 if you book with Klook)

Phnom Kulen Waterfall Day Tour

This tour will take you on a drive across rice fields and a trek along a jungle trail to see hidden ancient temples and take a dip at the Kulen Waterfall. Here are the stops:

• Kulen Waterfall
• ancient temples and pagodas
• River of Thousand Lingas
• sandstone Reclining Buddha, the biggest in Cambodia

Hotel pick up and drop off are included in the package.

PHARE The Cambodian Circus

An initiative by PPS Association, a non-profit organization aiming to revive the Cambodian arts, the PHARE Circus tells a story about Cambodian culture through awe-inspiring performances including dance, acrobatics, and other stunts. It’s both traditional and modern theater in one.

Other Places to Visit in Siem Reap

• Angkor Silk Farm . See the silk-making process from the silk worms to the fabric-creation. Free shuttle buses are available at Artisans Angkor’s main center in Thmey Street every 09:30am and 1:30pm. Opening Hours: 8am-5pm. Entrance Fee: FREE.
• Preah Prom Rath Pagoda
• Angkor Night Market
• Angkor National Museum. Entrance Fee: $12.

SAMPLE SIEM REAP ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 3-day 3-night Siem Reap itinerary with breakdown of expenses. This assumes you’re a group of 2 staying in the city center. I also included Klook affiliate links so you could easily book discounted tours.

Day 0: ARRIVAL 09:10pm – Arrival at Siem Reap Airport 10:00pm – Tuktuk to Hotel, $5 10:30pm – Hotel check-in 12:00mn – Lights out

Day 3: CITY TOUR 09:00am – Wake up call, pack up 10:00am – Check out, leave bags 11:00am – Explore Old Market 12:00pm – Lunch, $4 01:30pm – Angkor National Museum, $12 03:30pm – Preah Prom Rath Pagoda 04:30pm – Free time and snack, $4 06:30pm – Back to dinner, pick up bags 07:00pm – Transfer to airport, $5 07:30pm – Flight check in

If each of you will spend $12 per night on a hostel or budget hotel, this itinerary will set you back around $180 (EUR155, SGD248, PHP9700), excluding airfare and booze (LOL).

My actual expenses were much lower than this because I did the Angkor Tour DIY-style. But I got scammed so I ended up losing more than what I would have paid if I just joined a group tour and hired a guide. Hahaha. That’s life.

MORE TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Don’t lose your tuktuk driver . If you’re exploring Angkor by tuktuk, always agree on a meeting point before entering a temple. There are so many tuktuks swarming in front of major structures that it can be difficult to find the one you hired, especially after sunset.
• Use a good pair of shoes . Trust me, Angkor can bring so much pain to your feet if you’re not wearing good hiking shoes.
• Avoid getting dehydrated! This whole Angkor tour can be quite exhausting and draining. Bring a bottle of water or buy fresh coconut juice.
• Read up on Angkor and Khmer history in general before your trip if you don’t have a guide. This will allow you to appreciate the temples and its many features better.
• Be wary of “guides” offering to tour you around the temple. Most of them will ask for a big “donation” after.
• Pace yourself . At first you’ll be like, “Oh! So many temples! I’m gonna see them ALL!” But when you’re actually doing it, the temple fatigue kicks in and you might find yourself not wanting to visit any other temple anymore. The key is to just take your time and not rush.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SIEM REAP

Is siem reap safe.

Yes, Siem Reap is very safe. What you need to watch out for mostly are the scams targeting tourists usually at temples. But these scams are not exclusive to Siem Reap. Other cities in the region (like Bangkok) have them too at a bigger scale.

Of course, you should still use commom sense at all times and don’t flash your gadgets in the open or leave your valuables unattended.

What are the common scams in Siem Reap?

The most common are the fake tour guides. When you’re visiting temples especially within the Angkor comples, you might be approached by a local who will tour you around the site. Some will not explicitly say they’re touring you. They’ll just join you and before you know it, you’re on a tour. Many of these guides are children so it’s easy to fall for them. The catch is, at the end of the tour, they will be demanding for a donation that is much higher than what you would pay had you hired a real guide.

I fell victim to it once. I have a soft spot for kids, so when a little boy joined me, I didn’t mind. But in the end, the kid demanded that I paid him for absolutely nothing. The father showed up too.

Another scam that I heard about but never experiences has something to do with orphanages. According to some of my friends, some approach tourists for donation to an “orphanage”, but they’re not really after the welfare of these kids. Instead, they’re just exploiting them for money.

As in any other city, be careful and vigilant. But don’t worry too much about it.

When is the best time to visit Siem Reap

When is the best time to visit Siem Reap? December to February , weather wise. This is the driest period: plenty of sunshine, little to no rain, comfortable temperatures.

Siem Reap enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and wet. Dry season is from November to early May , with December to February being the driest. It is also tourism’s peak season, so expect to share the Angkor Wat with busloads of tourists. April-May is hot, hot, hot, so even when it’s relatively sunshiny, it’s not ideal for temple hopping.

Late May to October is the monsoon season, with September being the wettest. It doesn’t mean it’s going to rain every single day, though. I have experienced Siem Reap in July and September and stayed for a week each, and it didn’t rain at all. I probably just got lucky twice.

November and March are shoulder months in terms of weather and crowds. These are great times to experience Siem Reap, too!

What is tipping policy in Siem Reap?

Tipping is NOT mandatory in Siem Reap, but it is surely appreciated. For waiters and tour guides, a tip of 10% of the bill should be fine.

At hotels, you can give $1 to the porter who carries your luggage to your room and leave $1 for the cleaners.

Since the Cambodian riel is hard to convert back to my home currency, I usually just give them away as tips.

Where to exchange money in Siem Reap?

While the official currency in Cambodia is the Riel (KHR), US dollars are widely accepted in Siem Reap. Most of the restaurants I dined at displayed USD instead of KHR although they accept both.

On my first time in Siem Reap, I ended up spending waaaay too much because I carried Philippine pesos (PHP). Many money changers in Siem Reap accept PHP but the rates are terrible, soooo far from the standard forex rates. When I returned, I learned my lesson. Armed with US dollars, I got to experience Siem Reap at a much lower cost.

Bottomline, if you’re visiting Siem Reap, bring US dollars . And just exchange in your home country before the trip.

What are the usual prices in Siem Reap?

Here are the usual prices in Siem Reap. Note that these are just based on my personal experience (so this list depends heavily on the establishments I tried):

• Angkor tour by tuktuk (3-4 temples) for 1-2 pax: $15
• Angkor tour by tuktuk (3-4 temples) for 3 pax: $18
• Usual cost of a meal (rice/noodles): $2
• Usual cost of a drink (shake/cola): $0.75-$1
• Bike rental: $1-2 per day

What is the power socket used in Siem Reap?

Most usual power sockets are Type A and Type C. Type A accepts plugs with two flat pins. Type C accepts plugs with two round pins). Type A is more common though.

Do I need a visa to visit Siem Reap, Cambodia?

Foreigners holding passports issued by the following countries can enter Cambodia visa-free .

• Brunei, 14 days
• Indonesia, 30 days
• Laos, 30 days
• Malaysia, 30 days
• Philippines, 21 days
• Seychelles, 14 days
• Singapore, 30 days
• Thailand, 14 days
• Vietnam, 30 days

Nationals of other countries visiting for tourism purposescan either get a visa on arrival for $30 or apply for an e-visa before the trip for $36 (except Nigeria).

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 5️⃣ • 5️⃣ (updated) 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣7️⃣ • 5️⃣ • 2️⃣1️⃣ (first up)

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Great Read. As I didn’t know much about siem reap, but after reading your blog I would love to visit at this place. Amazing. Thanks!

Your blog has provided me a great tip towards my trip in the next two weeks. Thanks! You provide an awesome ideas!

Hi. Im planning a trip to sime reap on august. Can I go around Angkor Wat by bike or do I need to rent a more expensive tuktuk? Thank you!

Hay…. i love siem reap talaga ang challenge ko lang talaga sa siem reap why I cant stay longer is yung cost medyo namamahalan ako sa kanya compared to thailand and vietnam…. pero enjoy naman :) thanks for posting this…. added resource ko palagi yung blog nyo when I travel ! ^_^

Thanks, Ian! :)

As I read the blog, I was thinking who the blogger is. Then I read the word “pasalubong” “Ah Pinoy sya” pops out of my mind. The blog is helpful and detailed. I read it coz I am planning to go to Cambodia. This blog really helped. Thank you.

Thanks, Ashton!

I am all set for my trip to Siem Reap this weekend. Your blog is a great help ( I found you a few years back prior to my first solo trip abroad). I’m very glad to have found a comprehensive, detailed and a kabayan site about travelling. I booked Giant Ibis after in depth research and will be doing a food/cook tour. My mother is worried (as she always will be) and at the very least I mentioned that Filipinos have done I will be doing, so I have a reference. :)

I’ll let you know what happens (changes and such, if there is).

Maraming Salamat po.

Yay!!! Thanks, Cath! And enjoy SIEM REAP!

After your trip, hope you could return to this blog to share your experience! :)

I’m back! 1.) The Giant Ibis trip to Siem Reap was comfortable and without hiccups, after exiting Thailand, the staff took our passports for VIP stamping into Cambodia, so we were taken directly to our bus to wait.

2.) Once I got to Siem Reap, I had a bit of trouble booking a tuktuk for 2usd and the lowest they’d take is 3, so I took it BUT I made sure the driver will take me directly to my hostel before coming to an agreement. He took me to a similar sounding hostel so he had me enter my hostel’s add via map (can’t remember if it was google).

3.) I booked a half day food/cooking trail with an immigrant chef for the next day BUT he invited to a grand opening of this revamped fine dining restaurant that night I arrived. How lucky! I met so many people in that party, mostly in the hotel/resto/tour industry, they handed me their business cards. So next time, I just show up, inform them I need a place to stay within a budget and I’m all good.

4.) Trouble on my way back. I took the same bus company, but they left me at the border. I got held up at the Thai Immigration. I had a hard time understanding what the officer wanted at first but to summarize he wanted me to show him 1.) Flight Ticket back to Ph and 2.) cash worth 10K Baht …otherwise he will deport me, So, I had to go back to Poipet (2x )to do this AND he required a printed flight detail (cost me 100tbh/page). This took about 2 hrs, I already knew by then that my bus abandoned me. Anyways, I signed a paper, he took my printed flight details BUT didn’t care to look at the cash I withdraw even though he asked for it. (Ang mahal kaya ng withdrawal fee!)

5.) I made friends with a lovely Brazilian woman and we looked for a direct van to BKK. I asked a couple of friends to contact Giant Ibis to for them to keep my luggage in their office and promise to get it later at 8pm. Blah blah blah blah

In conclusion, my wonderful time in Siem Reap was buried deep by my bad experience in immigration only because I have a Ph passport. What a shame. Even the Brazilian woman was surprised.

PS: I only spent 84 usd for 3 dys, 2 nts including tips, charity work (included in shopping souvenirs). (Bus 64usd roundtrip, hostel 240tbh)

Hi Cath, thanks for sharing! Sobrang lucky nung grand opening invite! :D

Yes, the Thai Immigration recently got much much stricter. We actually included the 10K baht requirement to our Bangkok guide 2 months ago because may mga incidents na rin.

Yung first Siem Reap trip namin, same din yung expenses nung sayo kasi I did the ANgkor Tour DIY style and skipped the museum and the waterfall. (Wala pa ring Klook that time.) Na-scam lang din ako nang bongz hahahaha. Super newbie pa ako nun.

Alam mo ba dahil may professional photographer dun sa opening so na-post sa official fb page nila yung photo ko (with the chef who invited me and a manager). Super out of place, napaka tropical ng suot ko samantalang semi-formal sila lahat, pero welcoming naman sila lahat. I also met a lot of local chefs! and the food, hay exciting!

But I shared my experience (sa exit) para sa mga kapwa Pinoy as reference. Also, be cool lang while “in detention”.

*look for true café (internet and printing), you can also ask them to assist you to go to the nearest international bank.

Babalik ako dun, siguro next year na at may kasama para may photographer. :D

hahahaha go go go! maganda pag may photographer haha

That was a piece of great information. Thanks for sharing and for your advice. We are planning to visit Siem Reap from 27/Apr to 1/May, as you mentioned the weather would be very hot. Do you think we should just book it or visit in another month?

It’s really hot that time. Definitely not ideal. But if you want to go for it, there are ways to go around it. For example, limit your sightseeing outside to early morning and late afternoons, and stay indoors at around noon. When exploring Angkor, don’t go biking. Just charter a tuktuk/van and be comfortable. Also, make sure your hotel has airconditioner.

Hi… Good Day!

I just read your experience in Siem Reap and its awesome. By the Filipino po and planning to visit Siem Riep this coming July ‘2019. Ask lang is it okay to travel alone especially kung malaki at malawak yung mga temples/ruins ng Angkor Wat.

Thank You & Regards,

Hi Phil, it’s okay lang po to travel alone. I was alone po when I explored Angkor for the first time. Rent na lang kayo ng tuktuk. :)

Or if sa hostel kayo magstay, befriend other solo travelers para may kasama po kayo and ka-split ng gastos.

Hi. Thank you very much for the informative blog. Cramming some research before my trip and quite lost with how to go about it. haha. so your article’s very useful.

Would you recommend going on a bicycle tour around the Angkor complex? or susuko ako sa exhaustion/pagod? haha! in your opinion, what’s the best way to explore the temples/grounds, by foot/bike/tuktuk?

Thanks! cheers to more travels. :)

Hi Melinda, definitely NOT on foot. The Angkor complex is vaaaaast.

I’ve tried both exploring on bike and on tuktuk. The bike is really exhausting. I would recommend the tuktuk because going around WITHIN individual temple grounds is tiring enough. Angkor Wat alone is huge. And you’ll be climbing a lot of stairs at other sites. Much more tiring if you’re traveling from one temple to another too. The tuktuk ride became my resting time.

Hi Yoshke, thank you very much for the tip and fast response. Tuktuk it is! :) Last few questions, i’ve been reading a lot about establishments accepting USDs, is this preferred than their local currency? im scared kasi that if i change my allowance to KHRs, biglang hindi tanggapin ng restaurants and shops. :”>

Most establishments accept both USD and KHR. But it’s safer to have USD para in case maraming matira sa allowance mo, accepted pa rin outside ung USD. Hirap kasi magconvert ng KHR to other currencies outside Cambodia.

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Best Time to Visit Siem Reap: Travel Tips and Guide

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My favorite place in Cambodia is Siem Reap, and if you’re heading there too, you may wonder what the best time to visit Siem Reap is.

There are pros and cons to visiting during the different seasons and months in Siem Reap, so the best time depends on your budget, weather preferences, and what you want to do when you visit.

This article explains Siem Reap’s climate, the best time to visit by month and season, and what you should pack depending on when you go.

Published: February 6, 2024

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• Best time to go to Siem Reap
• Cooking Class in Siem Reap

Table of Contents

Siem Reap’s Climate

Siem Reap, in the heart of Cambodia, has a tropical wet and dry climate. The city has warm weather year-round, including during the monsoon season, when rain is heavy.

Here are the three seasons and the climate for each one in Siem Reap:

• November through February is considered the cool season, with daytime temperatures averaging around 25℃ (77℉), creating an ideal environment for temple tours and city explorings.
•  The hot season spans from March to May, when the temperatures are high, reaching upwards of 35℃ (95℉), so it is a bad time to visit if you don’t like sweating.
•  June to October is the monsoon season, when afternoon showers offer a break from the heat but are pretty heavy, making outdoor activities hit or miss.

Knowing the three seasons and what climate Siem Reap has will help you decide the best time to visit based on your preferences.

The Best Time to Visit Siem Reap by Season: Pros and Cons

You might think one season is best to visit Siem Reap, but there are pros and cons to visiting during each of the three seasons.

Here are some benefits and downsides to visiting Siem Reap during the cool, hot, and monsoon seasons.

The Cool Season in Siem Reap

• Enjoy the best weather from November to February, with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall.
•  Abundant sunshine and clear skies are perfect for exploring Siem Reap’s ancient wonders, such as Angkor Wat.
• Expect busier streets, bustling markets, and crowded temples due to the influx of visitors during the cool season.
•  Accommodation rates tend to soar, so you should book months in advance for the best hotels and tours.
•  Prices for guided tours, local experiences, and amenities may increase, impacting budget-conscious travelers.

The Hot Season in Siem Reap

• Enjoy fewer tourists, allowing you to explore ancient ruins at your own pace.
• Extreme temperatures, often reaching above 35℃ (95℉), especially during the day.

The Monsoon Season in Siem Reap

• Encounter a quieter Siem Reap during the rainy season from June to October, with fewer tourists.
•  Experience a lush, verdant landscape thanks to frequent rains.
• Expect afternoon showers and occasional heavy rains, requiring flexibility in planning outdoor activities.
•  Some outdoor attractions may be less accessible or closed during heavy rains.

The Best Time to Visit Siem Reap: Month by Month

When planning a trip to Siem Reap, understanding what each month offers is key to choosing the best time to visit.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year:

• January : January is one of the coolest months in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 88°F (31°C). It’s a comfortable time to explore the city’s temples and historical sites.
•   February : The pleasant weather continues, with average temperatures ranging from 69°F (21°C) to 90°F (32°C). It’s a great month for outdoor activities and exploring Siem Reap’s cultural attractions.
•   March : In March, temperatures begin to rise as spring approaches. Average temperatures range from 72°F (22°C) to 93°F (34°C), signaling the transition to warmer weather.
•   April : April marks the beginning of the hot season in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 95°F (35°C). It’s a hot and dry month, so stay hydrated and find shade when exploring the city.
•   May : May is one of the hottest months in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 95°F (35°C). It’s a good time to visit indoor attractions or cool off with a refreshing dip in a pool.
•   June : The hot and humid weather continues, with average temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 94°F (34°C). It’s the beginning of the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers.
•   July : July is one of the wettest months in Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 93°F (34°C). It’s a rainy month, but the lush green landscapes and cooler temperatures can be refreshing.
•   August : August continues the rainy season, with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 93°F (34°C). It’s a good time to visit waterfalls and enjoy the natural beauty of Siem Reap’s surroundings.
•   September : In September, the rainy season continues, with average temperatures ranging from 74°F (23°C) to 92°F (33°C). It’s a quieter time to visit Siem Reap, with fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.
•   October : October marks the end of the rainy season, with average temperatures ranging from 73°F (23°C) to 90°F (32°C). It’s a transitional month, with occasional showers tapering off as the weather cools.
•   November : November is one of the best months to visit Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 71°F (22°C) to 88°F (31°C). It’s a comfortable time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.
•   December : December brings cooler temperatures to Siem Reap, with average temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 87°F (31°C). It’s a pleasant month to visit, with cooler weather making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Remember that rain or high temperatures are not necessarily bad, as there will be fewer tourists and prices will be lower compared to the cool, dry months.

Packing List for Siem Reap by Season

Packing for your trip will depend on the month of your visit.

Light clothing is sufficient for the dry and cooler months, with a sweater for the occasional cool evening. During the wet season, include rain protection and waterproof bags for your belongings.

Regardless of the time of year, always bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable footwear, as you will likely spend a significant amount of time exploring on foot.

Here’s a breakdown of what to pack for each season:

Dry Season (November to April)

• Lightweight Clothing : With temperatures ranging from warm to hot, lightweight and breathable clothing is a must. Pack shorts, T-shirts, and loose-fitting tops to stay comfortable while exploring.
•   Sun Protection : Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the intense tropical sun.
•   Swimwear : If you plan to visit nearby beaches or take a dip in your hotel’s pool, pack your swimsuit.
•   Rain Gear : While the dry season is generally rain-free, occasional showers can occur. Consider packing a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket, just in case.

Wet Season (May to October)

• Rain Gear : During the wet season, Siem Reap experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity. Pack a sturdy umbrella, a waterproof jacket, and quick-dry clothing to stay dry and comfortable.
•   Mosquito Repellent : With the increase in rainfall, mosquito activity also rises. Pack insect repellent containing DEET to protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during outdoor activities.
•   Light Layers : Despite the rain, temperatures remain warm. Opt for lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing that dries quickly to stay comfortable in the humidity.
•   Waterproof or Dry Bag : Keep your electronics, documents, and other valuables dry by packing them in a waterproof bag or using a dry bag while exploring during the wet season.

General Packing Tips

• Comfortable Footwear : Whether exploring the temples or wandering through the bustling markets, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Choose lightweight, breathable options suitable for long walks.
•   Power Adapter : Cambodia generally uses Type A, C, and G electrical outlets. Pack a universal power adapter to ensure you can charge your devices without any issues.
•   Reusable Water Bottle : Stay hydrated by carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it with purified water from hotels and restaurants. This not only reduces plastic waste but also helps you save money.
•   Travel Documents : Don’t forget to pack your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance information in case of emergencies.

By packing these essentials and considering the weather conditions during your visit, you will have a fun trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

The Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

In the end, choosing the best time to visit Siem Reap is a personal decision that should be based on the weather, seasons, and the benefits of each season.

Whether you want the best weather, fewer tourists, or the cheapest time to visit Siem Reap, there is a good time of year to visit for everyone.

Ready to plan your trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia? Here are some of my go-to travel planning sites:

• SafetyWing for travel insurance
• Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
• HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
• Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
• FareDrop and Going for cheap flight alerts
• Skyscanner for the cheapest flights
• Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
• Priority Pass for airport lounge access
• TripAdvisor for the top hotels around the world

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An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap

Written by michael cullen, asia | cambodia | destinations | hotels and resorts | travel | travel tips.

Siem Reap, Cambodia, is the gateway for exploring Angkor Wat. These insider tips to Siem Reap help open the door to the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.

Siem Reap is one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Gateway to the world-renowned UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park , this small city in northwest Cambodia has become a vibrant hub for travelers seeking to explore the ancient capital of the Khmer Empire.

Sun rising behind Angkor Wat. Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Siem Reap

Once on the ground, though, visitors realize Siem Reap is more than just a base for exploring the Angkorian temples. It’s a destination in its own right. A unique blend of old-world French colonial charm, modern amenities, stunning natural beauty, delicious Cambodian cuisine, rich culture, and a young population wanting to get on with life after many years of hardship.

What's in This Article:

An Insider Offers Tips to Exploring Siem Reap

Siem Reap is an adventure at the top of many SE Asian visitors’ bucket lists. But how do you prioritize what to see and do? Thankfully we’ve tapped an insider, Rina Mariani, General Manager of Park Hyatt Siem Reap , to help you navigate all the Temple City offers. Originally from the Indonesian island of Bali , Rina has worked in Europe , the Middle East, and across Asia. Since early 2022 Rina and her family have called Siem Reap home. Read on for her recommendations and insider tips for Siem Reap.

Our Siem Reap Insider—Ms. Rina Mariani, General Manager Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Photo courtesy of Park Hyatt Hotels.

How Many Days Do Visitors Need for a Siem Reap Trip?  

Rina Mariani: Previously, visitors only spent three to five days in Siem Reap trying to squeeze in their temple and other Siem Reap experiences. Now we are seeing five to seven days as the norm. One of our best insider tips to seeing Siem Reap is that you need around three to cover the Temple experience and up to five days to catch many other compelling attractions.

Angkor Archaeological Park—What are your recommendations?

Rina Mariani: The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat is the first reason people add Siem Reap to their Cambodia itinerary. It is an experience of a lifetime. For first-time visitors, engage a certified guide to ensure you get the best understanding of what you are seeing. These are temples and city structures dating from the 9th to 15th centuries. There are so many fascinating stories to learn. Angkor Wat remains the star attraction though Bayon, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm are all must-sees.

Early morning on Angkor Thom reservoir is an example of the ever-changing faces of the Park. Photo by Michael Cullen

Then there are sunrises over Angkor Wat or sunsets viewed from Phnom Bakheng. Visiting at different times of the day, you experience the light play and mood changes on the facades of the temples and the sculptures within them. Guided Bicycle or Vespa Adventures tours are alternate ways to see and experience the Park. Or let our in-house Cultural Insiders tailor something specifically for you. This 400-square-kilometer Park contains many temple complexes, so exploration opportunities abound.

Touring Angkor Archaeological Park by Vespa with your own guide is a fun option. Photo courtesy Vespa Adventures

What is your personal favorite Angkor temple?

Rina Mariani: Ta Prohm is where I go on weekends for quiet and space. It is a mesmerizing temple to visit, and I love getting lost in my thoughts while wandering within it. The world got to know it thanks to those scenes in the Hollywood film Tomb Raider. Although work has been done to stabilize the ruins, Ta Prohm was deliberately left much as it was found. The towering ficus trees grow in and over the buildings, giving it the nickname the ‘jungle temple.’

It is easy to get to thanks to the new cycle paths within and leading to the Archaeological Park. Visit early in the morning when everybody else is at Angkor Wat. The surrounding jungle is alive with sounds, and the light is at its best for keen photographers trying to catch the ongoing battle between nature and architecture.

The ongoing battle between nature and architecture at Ta Prohm. Photo by Michael Cullen

What is on your Siem Reap ‘Must Do or See’ list other than the Angkor temples?

Rina Mariani: Park Hyatt Siem Reap is centrally located, so many downtown attractions are within walking distance or a short TukTuk ride away. Visit the old French Quarter for its leafy streets and architectural experience, the Central Market for local wares, and Pub Street to enjoy a sip of local-inspired cocktails, live music, and dining. Kendal Village is the shoppers’ hub for local handicrafts and uniquely Khmer souvenirs, with each shop offering something different. Then head to Satu Souvenirs beside the river for some keepsakes to take home to loved ones. Across the river is Wat Bo Village, another shopping and dining precinct.

Satu Boutique for take-home Siem Reap keepsakes. Photo courtesy Satu Boutique

Do you have some ideas for responsible tourism?

Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a vibrant destination for responsible tourism, and here are some of my insider tips to Siem Reap.

Kulan Elephant Forest

The 1100-acre Bos Thom Community Forest, in the foothills of Kulen Mountain, is home to rescued elephants that previously carried tourists around Angkor Wat. You can interact with them and see their life in this safe, peaceful retirement haven while learning about and supporting elephant conservation in Cambodia.

Elephant feeding at Kulen Elephant Forest. Photo by Michael Cullen

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

This is an evening of riveting, contemporary, and energetic big-top performances. More than just a circus, Phare performers use theatre, music, dance, and modern circus acts to tell uniquely Cambodian stories; historical, folk, and contemporary. Profits generated at the circus directly support free education, professional arts training, and social support programs at Phare Ponleau Selpak School in Battambang. Phare Circus is not only outstanding entertainment, but there is also that great feeling of giving back to the local community in real and practical ways.

High energy performance at Phare The Cambodian Circus. Photo courtesy Phare The Cambodian Circus

Khmer Culture Experiences

Understanding the Khmer culture and lifestyle involves visiting the villages and interacting with the locals and their communities. There are unique and authentic community-driven tourism experiences for visitors, and our Cultural Insiders can tailor something specifically for you. I definitely recommend these real-life immersive experiences.

Understanding real village life and local culture with community-based tours. Photo by Michael Cullen

Tell us about the arts and craft scene.

Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is now also emerging as an arts and crafts city. Many incredible local artisans and foreign artists who have taken up residence are achieving international acclaim and recognition. Belgium-born and Siem Reap-based artist Christian Develter is a personal recommendation. His new Develter Gallery combines a comprehensive collection of signature works from his original vibrant large-format oil painting, limited edition lithography collections, sculptural series, and fashion collection.

Striking art pieces by Siem Reap-based artist Christian Develter. Photo courtesy of the Develter Gallery

What are your insider tips to Siem Reap regarding recommendations for unique gifts and souvenirs?

Rina Mariani: Khmer souvenirs are very diverse and beautifully created. You will see authentic Khmer patterns and designs with traditional and contemporary features from silk to cotton. Ceramics, rattan, handicraft items, and leather carvings are impressive in Siem Reap and handmade by local artisans. The locals are also skilled in the art of jewelry making with the use of silver, beads, and semi-precious stones. Any one of these locally crafted items makes great gifts or great memories of your stay in this Kingdom.

Unique Siem Reap gift ideas. Photo by Michael Cullen

Will you share the Park Hyatt Siem Reap story?

Rina Mariani: Once the Hotel De La Paix, a prominent Siem Reap heritage landmark, the hotel emulates a luxurious colonial residence in the city’s downtown. Award-winning American designer Bill Bensley entirely reimagined Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Blending Khmer architecture with Art Deco, this architectural jewel takes inspiration from Cambodian art and the world-famous Angkorian ruins. We have 104 spacious guestrooms and 13 expansive suites, a collection of authentic dining opportunities, a full-service spa, a boutique, and two swimming pools.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap hotel façade. Photo courtesy Park Hyatt Siem Reap

Like most of the world, we were closed during the pandemic. The team and I have spent 2022 ensuring we were ready to provide our guests with the best possible Siem Reap experience while also delivering on Park Hyatt’s iconic ‘Luxury is Personal’ tagline. Whether exploring the area through our popular Cultural Insider tours or luxuriating by the stunning swimming pool, Park Hyatt Siem Reap is your ideal base.

Two pools to choose from at Park Hyatt Siem Reap. Photo courtesy Park Hyatt Siem Reap

What is the best time of year to visit?

Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a year-round destination. April and May are the hottest months, while September and October have the most rain. November, December, and January are the coolest but still warm, with daytime temperatures up to 89F (32C) degrees.

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• The Most Beautiful Islands to Visit in Indonesia
• An Epic Cultural and Hiking Tour to Pakistan

Any final insider tips for Siem Reap?

Rina Mariani: Siem Reap is a beautifully diverse city with much to offer beyond the ancient Angkor Temples. A fascinating city of arts, culture, traditions, and warmth. I recommend visitors come with an open mind and heart. Be adventurous. Try the exquisite food and engage in the activities, learning and adapting to the local traditions, customs, and practices. Most importantly, give yourself enough time to experience the beauty and magic of Cambodia’s Siem Reap.

Let Wander With Wonder be your guide when planning your next outdoor adventure or a trip to Asia .

Cultural Travel | History | International Travel Tips | Luxury Hotels | Outdoor Activities | Outdoor Adventures

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Backpacking Siem Reap On A Budget: Top Tips For Travelers

Find out all you need to know about backpacking Siem Reap on a budget in Cambodia. I will let you know everything there is so you have an amazing time exploring this city such as prices, transport, where to stay, the best things to do and so much more!

Honestly, Siem Reap has got to be one of my favorite budget-friendly cities, certainly number one for me in Cambodia . This is an awesome place with so much history to explore, delicious spots to try, and plenty of shopping to be done at the numerous markets.

If you are in Cambodia you need to make sure backpacking Siem Reap is on your itinerary!

In this backpacking Siem Reap travel guide, I will let you in on all the top things to do, where to sleep, eat, and more!

I have spent a good few weeks of my life exploring the incredible city which is Siem Reap. One of my favorite things about it is when you are exploring it seriously doesn’t feel like a huge sprawling place.

There aren’t any huge skyscrapers to be found in the main touristy area, and it reminds me of the digital nomad hub of Chiang Mai in Thailand . Though you no doubt have less time to spend there, perhaps only a few days to fill on your Siem Reap itinerary .

So let’s get into everything you need to know about backpacking Siem Reap so you can have the best trip. This includes finding out budgets, where to stay, top spots to eat, staying safe, things to do, and more!

All You Need To Know About Backpacking Siem Reap In Cambodia

How many days to spend backpacking siem reap, cost per day to travel siem reap, where to stay in siem reap, getting around siem reap, things to do while backpacking siem reap, where to eat in siem reap, safety while backpacking siem reap, where to after backpacking siem reap.

As you may have already read, I have actually spent quite a few weeks in Siem Reap throughout my travels around Southeast Asia. Though, that is because I simply love it there.

Oh, plus the fact I got quite sick so I had to bunker up there for extra time. Nevertheless, unless you are a digital nomad, I understand that you likely don’t want nor need to spend so much time in Siem Reap.

As a result, I recommend spending at least 3 full days in Siem Reap. This will allow you to explore the best of Angkor Archeological Park with those early morning starts, spend some afternoons relaxing and recovering, as well as discover some of Cambodia’s history, food scene, and incredible shopping opportunities.

One of the best things about traveling Cambodia, and Southeast Asia as a whole is how affordable it is. Seriously you can have some incredible experiences, stay in decent hostels, and make memories on a pretty strict budget.

I actually recorded my entire costs while traveling in Cambodia so that other backpackers could use them to budget their future travels. The average cost came out to $29.00 per day.

Though if we want to look specifically at Siem Reap then unfortunately it will be a bit more pricey than other spots around the country. Be aware that this is essentially a result of the quite pricey Angkor Archeological Park tickets.

Luckily it is pretty cheap in other areas such as food, where you can get a decent stirfry for a few dollars.

Accommodation is also surprisingly affordable, especially if you stay in hostels, and there will even be plenty of free activities provided. I recommend budgeting around $9.00 for a dorm room and $20.00 for a private air-conditioned room.

Overall I recommend budgeting $33.00 per day when backpacking Siem Reap. This will allow you a decent place to sleep, some delicious meals, and a daily activity to keep you entertained.

Honestly, one of my favorite parts of Siem Reap is how affordable accommodation is here. Trust me it is amazing how much bang for your buck you get here. So no matter what type of traveler you are you will find accommodation for all budgets.

Whether you are looking for a taste of 5-star luxe, an affordable guesthouse, or a hostel where you can meet other travelers, there is something here for everyone.

Though in my eyes, there are two things you need to be aware of when booking accommodation in Siem Reap. So before you start booking hotels or hostels, remember this.

The first is I highly HIGHLY recommend booking a room with air conditioning. My partner and I traveled Southeast Asia for the first time without staying in air-conditioned rooms. Now there are only a few places we struggled, but one of them was Siem Reap. The daytime heat is just next level.

Secondly is that there are a heap of power cuts in Siem Reap, like A LOT. Therefore depending on where you book, if the power goes out, there goes your air conditioning. Now I don’t mean to sound like a princess, but I have had the power go out here for 24 hours.

Also if you book a hotel with air conditioning it is unlikely they will have fans to cool off. Though nicer hotels will have generators that will boost into action in a power cut, guesthouses and more affordable choices will not.

My personal favorite place to stay in Siem Reap is called the Royal Crown Hotel & Spa. They have two different pools you can use, a quick 5-minute walk from the Old Market, beautiful rooms, and delicious food options on-site.

Though if you are looking for a budget-friendly option I recommend checking out my best hostels in Siem Reap guide.

We have also stayed in a couple of guesthouses and more affordable hotels in Siem Reap. Seriously you can find decent hotels here with a pool and air conditioning for as little as $20.00 per night.

If you have someone else to share the room with this works out to $10.00 per person, for a place you would pay $100.00+ a night out of Southeast Asia.

There are quite a few things to do and explore around Siem Reap so no doubt you will need to take some sort of transport during your backpacking Siem Reap adventures. Whether you need to get to the market, airport, bus station, Angkor Archeological Park, or just to your favorite restaurant.

Siem Reap International Airport To City Centre

Let’s get into all the ways you can travel from Siem Reap International Airport to the City Centre. This is for those arriving by plane, though if you are arriving by bus from Bangkok they will generally drop you off in the city center anyway.

Be aware that many hotels you book in Siem Reap actually include free airport transfers when you book your stay. Make sure to check whether this is an option for you.

You can find a taxi stand right outside the airport which will take you to the city center. Here you can book a ride for $10 which will take you around 20 minutes.

If you are traveling in a larger group of 4 people or more it is recommended to instead take a van. This is simply because you will be tight on space and may struggle to fit the suitcases and bags in the boot. The van costs $15.00 and can fit up to 6 passengers.

What better introduction to Siem Reap than taking a tuk-tuk? These can be found near the taxi stand at the airport. They are a tiny bit cheaper than a standard taxi charging a fixed fare of $9.00 to the city center.

Grab or PassApp

Another choice rather than taking a taxi is by taking the ever-popular Grab cars. This is an app commonly used in Southeast Asia and PassApp is a Cambodian version. It is super similar to Uber making it easy to use.

The travel time will be the same as if taking a taxi. Though what makes it more appealing is that it is actually cheaper than taking a regular taxi. On the grab app, you can expect to pay around $6.00. Though be aware fares can surge depending on the time of day.

Traveling Within Siem Reap

The main tourist area of Siem Reap is super easy to travel around. This is thanks to the fact that it isn’t too far spread out so you will be able to find numerous options for restaurants, cafes, and activities that are a short walk away from where you are staying.

Though be aware there will no doubt be some things you want to check out a bit further afield. Luckily enough tuk tuk drivers seem to be around every corner and will be more than happy to take you.

Just remember to negotiate a rate in advance. Places like this include the ever-popular Angkor Archeological Park.

I highly recommend downloading the offline map of Siem Reap on the Maps.Me app for your cell phone. It’ll be super helpful in navigating your way around if you do not have data. This is one thing I always make sure I have before arriving at a new destination.

Siem Reap is a relatively flat city and is pretty easy to walk around. Though for exploring further afield this is not a reasonable mode of transport, especially when there are plenty of other affordable choices available.

My main note will be to remember to walk on the footpaths and be careful crossing the road. With motorbikes and speedy tuk-tuks around it can feel a bit daunting. Though you just need to remember to look straight ahead and just keep walking.

You will also find some restaurants spread onto the footpath or sometimes it’ll be blocked. It is okay to walk on the side of the road in this case. Just make sure you are aware of your surroundings.

This is my personal favorite way to travel around many cities in Southeast Asia, including Siem Reap. Download the Grab or PassApp app on your phone and then you are all good to go. It provides the cost before you book which is a great tool to use to keep you on budget.

Because you also enter your location before the journey starts by dropping a pin, there are no communication issues, and ending up in the wrong place. The drivers are always super friendly, with a nice and clean car as well as having air conditioning blasting.

Grab is available all around Vietnam and Southeast Asia as well. If you are traveling around different countries this is a must-have app! It will also keep you safe from falling for local taxi scams.

There are so many things in Siem Reap to keep all types of travelers entertained. Whether you enjoy a spot of shopping, experience a different religion, or want to discover the history of the country and more!

Angkor National Museum

Learn about the history of the Khmer Kingdom. The Angkor National Museum focuses on the collection, preservation, and education of Angkorian artifacts. Inside the museum is wonderfully air-conditioned so you can spend as long as you like here without struggling in the Cambodian heat. You can also hire an audio guide if you want to learn a bit more for $5.00.

It is located 1.5 kilometers from the center of town, so up to you whether you would like to walk or pay a couple of dollars for a tuk-tuk.

Cambodia Landmine Museum

At the Cambodia Landmine Museum, you may find it surprising to learn that this country has nearly the most landmines in the world. This is from decades of civil war, the Khmer Rouge, and US bombings.

Here you will learn about how this has affected the country and its people. There are a lot of unexploded ordinances in rural Siem Reap and further afield around Cambodia.

APOPO Center

At the APOPO Center , you can find all about HeroRATs. This is certainly a unique experience, so prepare to be amazed by the incredible skills these rats have. Here you will learn about a creative solution to this, the incredible HeroRATs that have been trained to detect TNT under the soil.

Angkor Archeological Park

The Small Circuit Of Angkor Archeological Park : The small circuit takes you around the most popular temples in Siem Reap, so be prepared for a lot of tourists. This includes Angkor Wat, Phnom Bakheng, Bayon, Baphuon, Terrace Of Elephants, Thommanon & Chau Say Tevoda, Ta Keo, Ta Prohm, Banteay Kdei, and Srah Srang.

Grand Circuit Of Angkor Archeological Park : This is more of the lowkey temples so it will be quite a different experience. You won’t be running into those huge crowds, and even if these temples aren’t as popular when you nearly have them to yourself it makes the experience a whole lot more magical. You will visit Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, East Mebon, and Pre Rup.

This is undoubtedly a party spot, with bars playing loud music and offering many different types of drinking games. Try out some deep-fried bugs from one of the street food sellers, and dance the night away. You will also be able to find some super cheap beers here for 50 cents or $1.00!

Massage Time

Siem Reap has an assortment of excellent spas. Whether you are looking for a comfortable and modern 5-star service or something that will be easy on the wallet. There is something here for everyone.

A full body massage will generally set you back about $20.00+ whereas a 30-minute foot massage generally costs only a couple of dollars. Be aware the closer you are to the touristy area, the more the prices will be.

Though this is Southeast Asia where you can get some of the cheapest massages in the world, so an affordable choice is never too far away.

Night Market

Even if you are not a shopper, spending an evening at one of the night markets here in Siem Reap is an excellent chance to see some beautiful local artworks and clothing, and also try delicious food.

In Siem Reap, there are quite a few night markets on offer, though one of the best ones is called Angkor Night Market. Here you can find souvenirs and handicrafts made by the local Khmer community.

Tonle Sap Lake Tour

There are plenty of tours you can choose from to book with . Though this one on Klook is highly recommended and a super affordable option for travelers on a budget.

On the tour, you will be taken to the floating village called Mechrey checking out the floating market and floating houses. You will have the experience to witness how these people live in Siem Reap and at one with the lake. The money from the tour directly goes towards the community in Mechrey.

Phare Cambodian Circus

Lastly, it is the Phare Cambodian Circus . This is a Cirque du Soliel-like production by local performers. The circus is actually a social enterprise designed to encourage performance art in the country and provide opportunities to the youth from low socioeconomic areas.

There are two different show timings per night so you can decide what best fits your schedule, and there are three different seating areas, with the best costing around $38.00. The show lasts around 1 hour and showcases Khmer theater, dance, music, juggling, and contortionism.

One of my favorite things about Siem Reap is the crazy delicious cafes and restaurants that seem to be around every corner. These are my top picks for your backpacking Siem Reap travel guide.

Western Food To Eat While Backpacking Siem Reap

Since Siem Reap is such a foodie destination for Western Food thanks in part to it also being a big digital nomad hotspot. There are so many options available and something which caters to everyone. Whether you are a meat-eater or vegan.

A lot of restaurants and cafes operate as social enterprises where part of their profits are donated to communities, they train locals and provide education.

Siem Reap is a melting pot of cultures and the restaurants available really reflect this. Whether you are looking for something healthy, Italian, Indian, or a steakhouse there will be the perfect one not too far away from where you are staying.

One of my favorite breakfast restaurants in Siem Reap is Sister Srey. You can find me here every morning grabbing a delicious meal knowing the money I pay is going towards benefiting the local community.

Local Spots To Try While Backpacking Siem Reap

I know you don’t hear about Cambodian food too much on the international circuit, especially when compared with its neighbors Vietnam and Thailand . Though while you are in the country, and in Siem Reap, where you can find lots of variety, there is no better place than to try it.

Top dishes include:

Khmer Stream Fish Curry (Amok) : This is one of the dishes the country is famous for therefore you can find it on a lot of restaurant menus. Though the top places to try it are Khmer Kitchen and Amok Restaurant.

Green mango salad (Nhoam Svay Kchai) : This dish is made from tart green mangos and is a favorite among both locals and travelers. The best places to try this are Haven Training Restaurant and Sala Bai Restaurant.

Other popular things include Cambodian BBQ, fried insects, Khmer cakes, and Nom Banh Cho, known as the best noodles in Cambodia. If you are interested in learning more about Khmer cuisine a cooking class is definitely a good way to try a few of the dishes and pick up some new culinary skills.

Siem Reap is a relatively safe place. Of course, there is the exception of the many scams you will find in Southeast Asian countries. Sure there won’t be people waiting to steal your bag or a gang ready to snatch you away.

But Siem Reap is actually one of the poorest areas in Cambodia so you still need to be cautious and have your wits about you.

The main thing I will say is to be careful of snatch thieves. Basically, this is someone who will drive past you on a motorbike and snatch your phone/wallet/handbag away.

These people are opportunistic and act when the opportunity presents itself. Since they are on a motorbike and you are on foot there is no way you can catch them.

Whether you are looking at your phone for directions, opening up your wallet to pay for a cold drink, or simply walking down the road with your bag over your shoulder, be extra careful and pay attention to your surroundings.

Don’t drink the water out of the tap. It is easy to find bottled water here through the local corner store or hostels will often do free refills.

When you have finished up your adventures in Siem Reap it is super easy to continue your travels, or perhaps even pass into one of the neighboring countries . You can find an international airport here in Siem Reap with plenty of connections to other Southeast Asian backpacking spots.

Domestic: Unless you are planning on flying it isn’t super easy to get to the islands in Cambodia from Siem Reap. Instead, Battambang is an up-and-coming city on the tourist trail thanks to the bamboo train . Alternatively, you can travel to Phnom Penh and then to other parts of Cambodia from there.

International: If you are wanting to get to other neighboring countries from Siem Reap it is super easy to travel to Bangkok . There are plenty of bus connections available. Another option is Pakse in Laos , though bus connections are a lot less common as it is a less frequented route. This one may take a bit more planning.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Cambodia Inspiration? Check out….

• IS SIHANOUKVILLE WORTH VISITING STILL?
• BEST 4 DAYS IN SIEM REAP ITINERARY
• ANGKOR WAT GRAND CIRCUIT
• BEST HOSTELS IN SIEM REAP
• ANGKOR WAT SMALL CIRCUIT
• COST TO TRAVEL CAMBODIA
• KOH RONG OR KOH RONG SAMLOEM- WHAT IS THE BEST BEACH GETAWAY
• BEST HOSTELS IN PHNOM PENH
• HOW TO TRAVEL FROM PHNOM PENH TO SIHANOUKVILLE
• BEST BEACHES OF KOH RONG

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Photo credit: “ Phare Circus ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Austin Adventures . “ APOPO Visitor Center ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Hotel Kaesong .

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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Siem Reap Itinerary & DIY Travel Guide: 3 Days or More (Cambodia)

by Aileen Adalid Itineraries , Cambodia 3 comments

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Nestled in northwestern Cambodia is the city of Siem Reap ( see -em ree-ep; សៀមរាប), a Southeast Asian destination that can be aptly called a mystifying gateway to ancient ruins — after all, it houses the age-old structures of Angkor that a lot of people worldwide seek to witness at least once in their lifetime. (Siem Reap itinerary)

Apart from its grand temples (including the famous Angkor Wat that is pictured on Cambodia’s flag), there is much to do in and around the city. For instance, as the seat of the Khmer kingdom back in the 9th century, you can bask in its glorious history, its vibrant range of cuisine options, as well as its many other affordable activities and attractions.

With all these in mind, 3 days is the bare minimum that you must spend in Siem Reap in order to make the most out of this glorious destination. But of course, in order to properly enjoy it all without any rush, the more days that you can give, the better it will be. So hopefully, with my Siem Reap itinerary travel guide below, you can best plan your trip without missing anything!

Table of Contents

Siem Reap Travel Guide

» quick travel planning.

• Top tours & experiences
• Find flights to Siem Reap
• Book local transport
• Find cheap hotels & hostels
• Travel insurance (5% discount)
• Stay connected

– – –

» Best Time to Visit

Peak travel season is during the “winter” months of November to February as it is cool and dry — perfect for exploring the temples  (not to mention that it’s also the time when certain festivals happen in Siem Reap such as that of the Water Festival).  However, this will also mean that a lot of tourists will be there too at the same time.

So if you want to avoid that and wouldn’t mind some rain for your Siem Reap itinerary, you can come from June to October. In times when there isn’t rain, you will love the lush green surroundings! Just take note that if you don’t want to experience sticky humidity and heat, avoid April and May.

• WINTER: Dec to Feb
• SPRING: March to May
• SUMMER: June to Aug
• AUTUMN: Sept to Nov

» Getting in to Cambodia

By plane.   Siem Reap International Airport (REP) is the second largest airport in the country. For booking your flights, I recommend browsing through  Skyscanner  in order to find the best flight deals from your point of origin. If you’re from the Philippines like me, Skyscanner also scans through the budget airlines such as Air Asia and Cebu Pacific in order to find which of the 2 has the cheapest rate on the dates you choose (it also searches through Philippine Airlines, albeit not a budget airline).

From Siem Reap International Airport to the main city center of Siem Reap, you can:

• Book a  tuk-tuk , a local motorcycle taxi that is the most popular means of transportation in Siem Reap.
• Grab , a car service company like Uber, is also a possible option to take, but a private transfer is usually at a better price.
• There are taxis outside the airport that charge about $12.  (If they try to convince you to book a tour with them — DON’T, as it will be at a much higher rate).

TIP:  Check with your hotel first since it’s possible that they’re offering a FREE airport pick-up.

» Visa for Cambodia

If you’re a citizen from any of the countries below, you can enter Cambodia visa-free:

• Brunei (for 14 days)
• Indonesia (for 30 days)
• Laos (for 30 days)
• Malaysia (for 30 days)
• Philippines (for 21 days)
• Seychelles (for 14 days)
• Singapore (for 30 days)
• Thailand (for 14 days)
• Vietnam (for 30 days)

If you’re not from any of the countries above and you’re visiting for purposes of tourism, you can either get a visa on arrival for $30  (pay in dollars at the airport and bring a passport-sized photo as well)  or apply for a  Cambodia e-Visa  before the trip for $35  (to save yourself the hassle of doing it at the airport).

TIP : During festivals like the Chinese New Year, sometimes the immigration officers will ask for ‘red packet’ money after they stamp your passport. They’re not being totally serious and this is not required, so politely decline and don’t give in.

• Check full visa requirements here as per your nationality.

» Where to Stay (Siem Reap Accommodations)

To search for the best hotel accommodation in Japan at the best prices, I suggest cross-checking hotel prices between  Agoda  and  Booking.com . But if you’re rather interested in renting comfortable houses or apartments, you should search through AirBnB .

For some specific recommendations, see… Budget:  Mad Monkey Hostel Mid-Range:  FCC Angkor  or  AirBnB Luxury:  Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

» Cambodia Currency

Cambodia’s official currency is the  riel (KHR). Its rate fluctuates a lot on a daily basis but a general conversion would roughly be 4,000 riel to the US dollar.  However , the US dollar ($) is the de facto currency in the country and a lot of establishments widely accept it.

With that said, it’s best to just use US dollars while in Siem Reap. Besides, the riel is a non-convertible currency so you do NOT want to be stuck with riel bills and coins when leaving the country.

TIP:  Get your US dollars beforehand in your home country since the rates in Siem Reap money exchangers are not that ideal. Rest assured, a lot of establishments also accept credit cards, but as you’ll tour around the city riding a tuk-tuk (rickshaw), for example, you’ll be needing dollar bills on hand.

» Cost of Travel in Cambodia

To give you an idea, you should expect to travel in Cambodia with an average daily cost of about USD $15~ per person on a budget, or at least $50~ if you want to experience more comfort on activities, tours, hotels, and more. (Values below show low budget to medium budget ranges).

• Hotels: $5 to $20 USD / day
• Food: $5 to $10 USD / day
• Fun: $5 to $15 USD / day
• Transport: About $2 / day for bicycle rentals

» How to Get Around Siem Reap

By tuk-tuk.  Much like a taxi, this motorcycle rickshaw can be hailed from any street corner (or you can also ask your hotel concierge to call one for you) — but of course, it’s a LOT cheaper. As a standard, they should cost about $2 to $3 for up to 4 passengers. When I was doing my Siem Reap itinerary, I typically booked tuk-tuk rides via the  Grab  app as it is much safer and leaves no room for the drivers to change the price (yes, you can book tuk-tuk via the Grab app!). If however, you want to do a long trip, like exploring temples by yourself and without a tour guide, you can book a  tuk-tuk charter .

TIP : Before departing, always make sure that you and the driver agree on the total fare. You only need to pay upon arrival at your destination, and try to give smaller bills. When returning to your hotel, it helps to bring your accommodation’s business card with you that’s written in Khmer language in case the driver isn’t familiar with English.

By bicycle or motorcycle . I loved biking through the city center and you can easily  rent a bicycle online  or look for the “Green E-bikes” that are stationed throughout the city (they can be rented for $10 per 24 hours, but they will typically ask for your passport). Otherwise, if you want to travel longer distances, there’s also the option to  rent a motorcycle online .

By car.   I suggest booking one through your hotel in order to avoid being scammed. Otherwise, book one via  Grab  in order to get a fair price. If you want to arrange a  chartered car , you can do so  online  — a sound decision especially if you want to go somewhere far from the city (roads can get dusty and the weather can be unforgiving).

Meanwhile, when you’re mapping out your day-to-day route, just use  Google Maps  because it will show in detail the fastest connections you can do (by walking, by car, by bus, and by train).

» Staying Connected in Cambodia

Hotels and most shops offer FREE WiFi connections — but in order to stay connected online at all times during your Japan trip, I recommend getting your own  pocket WiFi  or a  SIM Card ; or better yet, get an  eSIM  for a hassle-free experience  (use code AILEEN684 to get $3 off). 

» Safety in Cambodia

Petty crime can happen because of how touristy it is especially in Siem Reap; however, Cambodia remains to be one of the safest countries in the world (great for solo female travelers too) . Just practice common sense at all times and you’ll be fine!

• HOW TO: Find the right travel insurance for you

» Helpful Khmer Phrases

A lot of people speak English but it doesn’t hurt to learn a few Khmer words.

• RELATED READ: Best translation apps for travel

Hello (formal):  Chum reap suor  (you can combine this with the gesture of joining your palms in front of your heart and slightly bowing the head) Hello (informal):  Sous-dey Thank you:  Orkun Yes:  Chah  (for female) /  Baht  (for male) No:  Ort teh Goodbye (formal):  Chum reap leah Goodbye (informal):  Leah sin houwy . Excuse me:  Somm toh Is there someone here who speaks English?:  Meean m’neak na cheh piasah ongkleh teh? Help!:  Chewy khñom pawng! Cheers!:  Chul muy!

» Other Siem Reap Travel Tips

• Cambodia still has a conservative society rooted in Buddhism so if you are in a temple, remember to be respectful. Bring a shawl to cover your shoulders (don’t wear revealing clothes), wear pants/long skirts that cover your knees, and put on shoes that are easy to take off (since some temples don’t allow you to wear them inside).
• Airport scams: The immigration officer asks for a tip, or the airport staff at the visa counter won’t give you your change. Tuk-tuk drivers waiting outside will also coax you to book them for a tour at a very affordable price — but at the end of the tour, that price will change.
• Street scams: Street children will drag you to stores so you can buy food or milk for them; though nice, they won’t actually receive those goods because they will be returned and the money at the store is pocketed by their ring’s ‘mastermind’. There are also those people who claim to be volunteer workers asking for donations but that won’t actually go to the volunteer program but to their own pockets.

Other Siem Reap F.A.Q.

Tipping is NOT required in Siem Reap, but it is appreciated and 10% is a good baseline.

Cambodia typically uses type A (two flat parallel pins ) and type C (two round pins) — however, type A is the most common one and they operate on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50Hz.

Please check their  latest travel advisories  page.

Drones are generally allowed in Cambodia but it’s best to exercise caution. For instance, drone use is NOT allowed in places like Phnom Penh, Angkor Park, and any other historic temple — unless you get a permit for it. For more info, see here .

Siem Reap Itinerary Guide

NOTES: The following section is in a  tabbed format; so, in order to see the next day’s contents, just click the headings below. I will also cover other activities in and out of Siem Reap under the ‘ Extras ‘ tab below so that you can consider these if you happen to have more days for your Siem Reap itinerary, or if you simply want to see more.

Explore the ruins of the Angkor Archeological Park

Not a lot of people know this but Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire and the popular Angkor Wat is just one of the thousands of temples in the huge expanse of the Angkor area — which mind you, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Now, unless you’re a Cambodian, you need to buy an ‘ Angkor Pass ‘ to visit the Angkor Archaeological Park’s temples (which as I said encompasses Angkor Wat, as well as the equally famous Bayon temple, Ta Prohm, and many others).

• Where to buy the Angkor Pass?  At the Angkor Ticket Centre which is found on the corner of Road 60 and Apsara Road. If you’ve booked a tour or a tuk-tuk charter,  they know where it is and they’ll bring you there before entering the park. (Please keep your tickets with you at all times since if you’re caught without them, you’ll be prosecuted and handed to the police with fines that can reach up to $300). .
• 1-Day Pass : $37 (if purchased after 5PM, it’s only valid for the next day)
• 3-Day Pass : $62 (valid for 10 days, so you don’t have to plan your visits consecutively)
• 7-Day Pass : $72 (valid for 1 month, so you don’t have to plan your visits consecutively) .
• Angkor Wat and Srah Srang : open from 5AM to 5:30PM to make way for sunrise viewing
• Phnom Bakheng and Pre Rup: open from 5AM to 7PM to make way for sunrise and sunset viewing

“Do I need a tour guide?”  You can easily explore Angkor Wat on your own; however, if you want to enhance your visit even further, I suggest booking an  Angkor tour with a licensed guide  so that you can get a deeper understanding of the temple complex’s history and background. (Beware of people or even children who offer their ‘touring services’ at the temples because they are mostly charging high fees — plus, they’re not even proper licensed guides).

Also, as I said, there are over a THOUSAND of temples in Angkor but below are some of the top picks that you must check out for your Siem Reap itinerary!

◘◘ Visit Angkor Wat

Photo by: Shutterstock

Obviously, this is a must to see as the ‘centerpiece’ of the Angkor complex. As the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was originally made as a Hindu temple for the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, but it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century.

To get that magical shot, I suggest heading to Angkor Wat before sunrise; in fact, most rented  tuk-tuk  drivers or Angkor tours  will pick you up at around 4:30AM.

Once there, the first thing you’ll likely be doing is securing a spot on the left pond by the entrance…  along with hundreds of other tourists. It’s crazy, really, but the view will be worth it (weather permitting)!

TIP : Most people head for the left pond, but if you want a lesser crowd, stand by the right pond for a different angle.Other people also like the nearby ‘Srah Srang’ or the ‘Royal Baths’ for sunrise views. It’s basically a reservoir and the view over the water as the sun hits it is quite a glorious view!Otherwise, there is now an option to ride a hot air balloon in order to see Angkor in its full glory. Check out  this website for more details. They typically only do 2 flights per day, during sunrise and sunset. 

After you get that golden shot, there are two options for you: to go explore Angkor Wat with the rest of the crowd (often huge groups of tourists who are on a big bus tour) OR come back later after/during lunch without many people. It’s entirely up to you, but if you ask me, I preferred to do the latter since most tour buses leave at lunchtime, and it was much easier to go through the Angkor wat temple and take photos.

Once inside Angkor Wat, you’ll come to see that it’s a big expanse and if you’re into details, you might need a whole day to explore everything. But if you’re pressed on time, it’s best to arm yourself with a guidebook — or better yet, a licensed tour guide.

For a hassle-free experience, I’ll discuss the different kinds of tours that covers the Angkor Wat and the whole of the Archeological Park at the end of this section.

◘◘ OPTIONAL: Grab an early lunch

As I previously mentioned, you can continue to explore the rest of Angkor Wat or retreat from the crowd and come back later.

So if you choose the latter, this is the perfect time to grab a quick nap (after waking up so early) or an early brunch. For this, I would highly recommend Wat Damnak for some great Cambodian dishes .

Besides, this restaurant has earned a spot on Asia’s 50 Best list of restaurants for two times already, so that means a lot!

◘◘ Head to Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom was a moated royal city and it served as the last capital of the Angkorian empire.

Its grand 5 grand entrances still stand today in which each of them has giant Buddhist faces that are framed by elephants and adorned by lotus flowers. These gates stand on each axis and the Victory Gate is just beside the East Gate that leads to the Royal Palace’s terrace.

• Victory Gate
• ★ South Gate: the most popular entrance (as pictured here ) as it is the most preserved one, and I just loved how it is lined up with 54 figures of devas/gods
• East Gate: or Death Gate as it is “allegedly” the only entrance used when transporting a king to his funeral

And of course, at the center of Angkor Thom is Bayon  which is a richly decorated temple that’s famous for its numerous serene and smiling stone faces. Originally numbering at around 200, these faces are engraved on its towers and made to look like the past Khmer king, Jayavarman VII — but as time passed on, most of them have toppled over. Nevertheless, there are still a number of them that are still intact.

Before you leave though, make sure to drop by the nearby  Terrace of the Elephants.  This used to be a platform and audience hall in which the king would watch over his army. It is quite a sight given the elephant carvings and life-sized garuda and lions.

◘◘ Witness Ta Prohm (‘Tomb Raider’ Temple)

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Originally called Rajavihara , Ta Prohm used to be a monastery and university — but today, it is known as a famous UNESCO site as well as the famous film location of the Tomb Raider movie.

Unfortunately, after years of heavy looting, many of its ancient stone reliquaries have been lost. The surrounding jungle’s great trees and roots have also towered and carved through the walls for years leaving it extensively ruined, yet still aptly mesmerizing.

If you ask me though, apart from being a temple, I deem Ta Phrom as a bit of a maze too (as per the famous Tomb Raider movie feels). After all, if you come here without a tour guide, it’s easy to get lost or lose your way on dead-end paths — especially if you visit during low season; but of course, you will see enough signs to lead you on the right path too, so no worries there.

NOTE : Please don’t climb on any of the rubble (especially if you don’t have a guide with you) since they are often unstable and can collapse easily.

◘◘ Go for grand sunset views

There are various options for this as you end your Siem Reap itinerary’s first-day ‘temple run’…

• ★ Go on a hot air balloon tour overlooking Angkor as the sun sets.
• Join an Angkor dragon boat tour  that will end the day with nice golden views.
• TIP : Arrive early at around 4PM to secure a spot on the southeast corner. Take note that in high season, it can get really crowded — and that of course, it helps to bring a zoom lens since Angkor Wat is still about 1km away. Be careful when going down after your sunset viewing since it can get dark pretty fast (it helps to have a flashlight on hand or your phone’s flashlight feature).
• Go to Pre Rup , another picturesque mountain temple that grants stunning views over the surrounding rice fields.

NOTE : If you want to explore more temples, check by the ‘Day #2’ and “Extras” tabs above!

◘◘ Angkor Tour Options

As I’ve said before, if you want to avoid the hassle and cover more ground in the Angkor temple complex area for your Siem Reap itinerary trip, below are various tours you can choose from.

• Bayon Temple
• Angkor Thom
• Phnom Bakheng
• Terrace of the Elephants
• Ta Prohm Temple
• Ride through villages
• South Gate Of Angkor Thom
• Ta Keo Temple
• Banteay Kdei Temple
• Preah Khan Temple
• Neak Pean Temple
• Eastern Mebon Temple
• Ta Som Temple
• Pre Rup Temple
• Srah Srang Lak
• Banteay Srei/Kbal Spean
• South Gate of Angkor Thom
• Baphoun Temple
• Phimeanakas Temple
• Banteay Srei
• Artisan Angkor

◘◘ See an Apsara Dance show for dinner

Apsara Dance is an indigenous ballet-like performance art in Cambodia.

It was created by the Royal Ballet of Cambodia in the mid-20th century under Queen Sisowath Kossamak and it’s an experience that’s worth a try!

To date, there are 2 places that you can try it on and both of them already come with a dinner spread.

• Smile of Angkor  (it also includes Khmer martial arts and more!)
• Koulen Restaurant

Visit temples outside of Angkor

If you still want to explore the rest of the Angkor Archeological Park, head to the tab ‘ Extras ‘ above to replace the Siem Reap itinerary for this day. Otherwise, if you only have a limited time in the city, it’s best to head out to some other temples that are a bit far out.

Depending on the time that you have, you can choose from ANY of the following…

◘◘ Phnom Krom

(40 Minutes away) On top of a 140-meter hill near Siem Reap is this spectacular Hindu temple. Its three towers are each dedicated to a Hindu god: Brahma for the south, Shiva for the central one, and Vishnu for the north.

To enter, you can use your Angkor Pass, otherwise, you’ll pay a small entrance fee. Just take note though that you’ll have to go up a long flight of stairs to get to the top — but I assure you, it will be worth it! And if you can, come here during sunset for stunning views overlooking the surrounding landscape.

For a hassle-free experience, book a Phnom Krom tour online .

◘◘ Banteay Srei

(1 hour away) Dedicated to the Hindu god, Shiva, the name Banteay Srei means “Citadel of the Women” or “Citadel of Beauty”. It may be one of the smallest temples but what it lacks in size makes up for its intricate structure with some stones exhibiting a pinkish hue.

* This is also covered by the Angkor Pass.

For a hassle-free experience,  book a Banteay Srei tour online  which will include stops at other Angkor temples: Pre Rup Temple, East Mebon Temple, Ta Som Temple, and Preah Khan Temple.

◘◘ Beng Mealea

(1.5 hours away) If you want lesser people but with the same ‘Tomb Raider’ or ‘Indiana Jones’ ambiance, then head over to Beng Mealea! Shrouded in a dense jungle, it is somewhat of a hidden gem as you make your way through its crumbling stone blocks.

You must know though that it is largely unrehabilitated so there are spots where you’ll have to climb up with your own hands — so be cautious (it will really help make you feel like you’re on your own treasure hunting trip). With this fact alone, it’s best to book a tour so that a guide can help ensure your safety.

* This is NOT covered by the Angkor Pass.

For a hassle-free experience, book a Beng Mealea tour online  which will include stops to Koh Ker

(2 hours away) This is an archeological site that is largely still hidden by the forest. However, the most significant of its temples will be  Prasat Thom,  which is an impressive stepped 7-tier pyramid!

You can easily include this stop in your Siem Reap itinerary if you book a Beng Mealea tour online.

◘◘ Phnom Kulen

(1 hour away) In case you just want to visit just one outside temple and then dedicate the rest of the day to something else, then how about a visit to a beautiful waterfall at Phnom Kulen?

The main attraction here is the waterfalls at the top and it’s such a great picnic spot! On the way here, you can stop by the Thousand Lingas and the Preah Ang Thom pagoda with its giant reclining Buddha.

Book a Phnom Kulen tour online now!

◘◘ Visit the night markets

Most of these night markets are concentrated in the downtown area and they offer a range of local handicrafts, souvenirs, fresh produce, food stalls and so many more! Definitely, a must-to-do for your Siem Reap itinerary.

• Angkor Night Market: (Sivatha Boulevard) Open daily from 4PM to midnight.
• Angkor Handicraft Association : (Road 60) If you want to see products of local artisans and support their work, this is the place to go, and it’s open from 9AM to 7PM daily.
• Made in Cambodia: (Street 27) Held every Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday from 12PM to 10PM, they are a bit pricier but you’ll find a lot of good finds!
• Noon Night Market: (Sivutha Boulevard) There is much to see, buy and eat here and it’s open daily from midday to midnight.
• Old Market: (Psar Cha) This is the oldest Khmer market in Siem Reap and it opens from 7AM to 8PM.

If you’re craving some local cuisine, apart from the food stalls on the markets, you can check restaurants like SalaRussey , Sugar Palm, or Chenrey Tree. Try out some cool snacks too like the  fried ice cream sold in small stalls.

If you’re wondering about the Cambodian dishes that you must try, it would be:

• ★ Fish Amok:  Fish in a creamy coconut-based curry
• Khmer Curry:  Milder than curries found in Thailand
• Kuy Teav: Noodle soup made from pork or beef bones and rice vermicelli
• Lok Lak: Made of stir-fried strips of tender beef above a bed of vegetables
• Nom Banh Chok : A common street food made of thin rice noodles topped with cucumber, basil, banana leaves, and green fish curry.

◘◘ Spend the rest of the night in Pub Street

This is a short alley that’s filled with a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants. From 5PM onwards, the street is blocked and it comes alive with flashing lights and sounds of cheer, and (affordable) beer bottles clinking.

There are a number of places to get your fill but here are some of the top bars to check out during your Siem Reap itinerary:

• ★ Angkor What? Bar:  The pun-ny name aside, this is Pub Street’s first bar and visitors are welcome to leave a graffiti mark of their own on the bar’s walls.
• Barcode Siem Reap: A popular LGBT bar and lounge with sophisticated decor and even a spa for men!
• Little Mitchy’s Lounge:  If you’re looking for a more relaxed scene, this should be on your list.
• X-Bar : You’ll love the open-air rooftop which has a 6-feet skateboard halfpipe, and its open mic sessions every Wednesday evening. Every other night of the week, there will be a live DJ or band playing.

◘◘ …Or how about a massage?

Apart from the peculiar ‘fish massage’ stalls that you’ll find around Pub Street or the night markets, Siem Reap has a lot of affordable and luxurious spa places where you can unwind and rest your body after a day of exploring temples!

Come pick your fancy from any of the below:

• Samathi Spa
• Devatara Spa
• Cool Sense Spa

Enjoy the Rest of Siem Reap

It’s time to take a rest from all the temple exploration and explore a bit more of what the city has to offer!

◘◘ Do a quad tour

Come and discover the countryside for your Seim Reap itinerary with an enjoyable quad bike adventure! With your choice of a morning or sunset bike, you can take the road less traveled as you go through rural villages, Buddhist monasteries, temples, and even a visit to a rice paddy field.

Depending on your comfortability as well, you can choose to ride a quad bike alone or with a guide. To book your tour spot along with your family and friends, you can reserve online .

TIP : Don’t wear anything in white as it will be dusty (or muddy in case it rains).

ALTERNATIVE : If you rather feel like doing something up in the air, how about a zipline activity  inside the UNESCO Angkor Archaeological Park?

◘◘ Rent a bike and explore the city scene and cafes

For a chill afternoon, why not rent a bike  as you go around the streets of Siem Reap making stops to take photos, or just lounge at a cafe?

In fact, for lunch or for an afternoon snack, I would recommend the following socially responsible restaurants and cafes:

• Bloom Cafe: Their women staff, who are from poverty and dire circumstances, are given the chance to go through vocational training and now they can whip up really good cupcakes and cakes!
• ★ Haven Restaurant: They provide vocational training to young adults who are from orphanages or safe shelters, and they make up a part of the kitchen staff that serves both Asian and Western dishes. (Try out their burgers here, they are quite good!)
• Sister Srey: The staff is made up of local Khmer who are supported in school and they ensure to use organic produce that supports the local community. (There are also vegan and vegetarian selections here).
• Spoons : This is a beautiful cafe and restaurant that reaches out to underprivileged young adults. A must-try? Their coconut rice cake! It’s divine!

ALTERNATIVES :

• Are you more into history? Visit the Angkor National Museum  which houses treasures and artifacts from the golden era of the Khmer Kingdom.
• Or do you want a hands-on activity for your Siem Reap itinerary? Then come and join a ★  Cambodian cooking class  with a local chef! It will definitely be a fun activity, and by the end of it, you’ll get full too!

◘◘ Watch a local show for the night

Apart from the Apsara show that I’ve previously recommended, there are also other performances that you can check out…

• ★ Phare, The Cambodian Circus Show : show as it only makes use of young local performers who do an amazing blend of theater, music, dance, acrobatics, and more! The shows vary and are performed in Khmer but fret not because there are English subtitles on the screen. What’s more, is that this is a project of a non-profit organization that is founded by young Cambodian ex-refugees who aim to support fellow young adults while reviving Cambodian Arts.
• Angkor Dynasty : Set in the Angkor Grand Theater, you’ll be awed by the show’s world-class production, high-tech 4D visual effects, and interactive performances!
• Rosana Broadway Show : This is the 1st and only international trans cabaret show in Cambodia and it is filled with extravagant costumes and 16 different set performances that are set to both Eastern and Western music.

Extra Activities and Other Temples

◘◘ Other Temples in Angkor Archaeological Park

• Baphuon: (Found in Angkor Thom)  A 3-tiered temple mountain that features a terrace offering one of the best views in the Angkor Archaeological Park. .
• Phimeanakas :  (Found in Angkor Thom)  Also called Vimeanakas, this is a large 3-tiered pyramid that remains to be a striking site in Angkor. .
• Ta Keo:   (Near Angkor Thom’s Gate of the Dead) This is one of the tallest monuments in Angkor .
• ★ Ta Som: (East of Angkor Thom)  Found within Angkor Thom is this small temple that is famous for its Eastern gate that has a gigantic ancient fig tree that’s growing out of it! An amazing inclusion for your Siem Reap itinerary! .
• Neak Pean or Poun : (Near Ta Som) A charming Buddhist temple that stands in the middle of an artificial pond island. .
• Banteay Kdei:   (Near Srah Srang) Meaning “A Citadel of Chambers”, this is a Buddhist temple that features a fascinating maze of chambers as it used to be an active monastery. .
• Eastern Mebon:  ( Near Ta Prohm) A mountain temple dedicated to Shiva and features 5 towers, stone elephants, and many others. This used to be surrounded by water and the four landing stages show how this temple was once only reached by boat.

◘◘ Other Activities and Trips

• Kayaking Tour , or a
• Cruise Tour .
• Book a spot online  and you can even visit the Mechrey Floating Village together with the inclusion of a roundtrip transfer to your hotel. .
• Reserve a spot by booking online! .

» Top Siem Reap Tours «

Angkor Temples Sunrise Tour A must to do!

Kompong Phluk Floating Village Half day tour

Booking Essentials

TIP: It’s a good idea to crosscheck the prices with other popular travel insurance providers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)! . However, take note that a travel insurance’s affordability typically means lesser coverage; so please always ensure that you read the fine print in order to decipher which travel insurance company is the right fit for you and your trip!

Looking for more travel tips for Cambodia?

Check out my other detailed Cambodia travel guides !

There’s definitely a lot more to Siem Reap than its famous temples! I hope this Siem Reap itinerary travel guide has shown you that.

Here’s to hoping as well that you’ll enjoy your trip. Let me know!

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Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful  digital nomad  (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission?  To show you how it is absolutely possible to  create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

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What a guide!

I was told Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom has 216 faces!

I totally love this post, thank you so much!! I’m off to Siem Reap at Christmas and now I’m even more excited than I already was! I didn’t even know that was possible! All of the temples look so stunning and I had no idea there were so many! Wow, cannot wait! :D

I’m very happy to hear this! Really hope this guide helps — let me know! Enjoy your trip :D

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Siem Reap travel blog — The fullest Siem Reap travel guide for first-timers

Located in the west of Cambodia, about 300 km from Phnom Penh , Siem Reap is widely known around the world because of its majestic Angkor Wat temples dating back to the great Khmer dynasty. Siem Reap is nestled amidst the vast rice fields, besides the green rivers intermingled with mountain ranges with lush green trees creating a mesmerizing painting that captivates visitors. The complexes of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom brings visitors to the mystical spirit land, ancient of the great civilization once passed. Siem Reap is also a place where eco-tourism is very develop, with the focus is the Tonle Sap Lake or go further to the north is the legendary Kulen Mountains and the old, mystical forests.

• Siem Reap tourist attractions — Top 10 best places to visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia
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• Where to visit in Siem Reap? — 9+ best, must & top places to visit in siem reap
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• The Kampot blog — Best places to visit & top things to do in Kampot, Cambodia

So, is Siem Reap worth visiting, how to visit Siem Reap, what to do in Siem Reap and how to plan a budget trip to Siem Reap for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Siem Reap travel blog (Siem Reap blog) with the fullest Siem Reap travel guide (guide to Siem Reap, Siem Reap tourist guide, Siem Reap city guide, Siem Reap guide) from how to get to Siem Reap, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Siem Reap to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Siem Reap travel blog: When is the best time to visit Siem Reap?

Cambodia has a relatively similar climate with Vietnam and looks a little bit hotter. You can traveling here at any time of the year, but avoid hot months such as April to May and rainy season from July to August. The best time to visit Siem Reap is from November to February next year.

Let’s explore our Siem Reap blog (Siem Reap travel blog) with the fullest Siem Reap travel guide for a budget trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Siem Reap travel blog: How to get to Siem Reap?

One of the easy ways to get to Siem Reap is by plane. Siem Reap Airport serves over 1 million visitors a year. The price for a round trip ticket from Vietnam to Cambodia is about $110 to $130 (Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Air Asia).

The second way to Siem Reap is by bus. You can getting to Siem Reap from Saigon. The distance from Saigon to Siem Reap is approximately 600 km and the bus takes about 12 hours including the time of entry and exit procedures at the border. There are some buses such as Kumho, Sorya, Sapaco and Long Phuong. In which, the Sorya, Sapaco are the routes go direct from Saigon to Siem Reap, cost about $18 – $21.5. Meanwhile, Kumho and Long Phuong buses only take guests to Phnom Penh , then you have to take a bus to Siem Reap. Saigon bus ticket to Siem Reap about $18 / trip. Saigon – Phnom Penh: $9 / trip. Phnom Penh – Siem Reap: $8 / trip.

• Sapaco : 325 Pham Ngu Lao, ticket price $9.87 / trip, Saigon – Phnom Penh, depart at 6:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:30 and 14:00. Tickets phone: 083 9203 623.
• Kumho : 239 Pham Ngu Lao, ticket price $9 / trip, Saigon – Phnom Penh, depart at 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 11:00, 13:00 and 15:30. Tickets phone: 08 6291 5389.
• Sorya : 310 Pham Ngu Lao, ticket price $9.87 / trip, Saigon – Phnom Penh, depart at 6:30, 7:30, 9:30, 13:30 and 15:00. Tickets phone: 083 9209 438.
• Long Phuong : 313 Pham Ngu Lao, ticket price $8.15 / trip, Saigon – Phnom Penh, depart at 6:30, 8:30, 11:30 and 15:30. Tickets phone: 08 3837 0969.

The third way, less popular and only during the floating season (August to March), is by bus to Phnom Penh and then take a boat to Siem Reap.

Siem Reap travel blog: Getting around Siem Reap

There are very few tourists renting cars to visit the relics here. The cars rented in Cambodia are quite old and run is not very good so it will not be a comfortable experience.

The major means of transportation in Cambodia is tuk tuk, if you go with a large group, this type of vehicle is most suitable because when share money is very cheap. Tuk tuk running at moderate speed, so it also be convenient to see the street scene. Normally, 1 kilometer will range from $1 – $1.5, you remember to bargain the price before getting up tuk tuk.

Motorbike taxi

Very economical if you rent a motorbike taxi and the difference here is that for people sitting behind a motorbike in Cambodia, no helmet is required, if you go with group of two or three people, you can also call only one because it is allowed. The motorbike taxi fee is only $7 – $10, but if you are a skilful negotiator, the price may be $5 for a around trip Siem Reap city.

Rent a motorbike

Renting a motorbike to explore every corner of Siem Reap will be an exciting experience. In order to be able to drive a motorbike in Siem Reap in particular and Cambodia in general, visitors must have a valid driver’s license that accepted in Cambodia. Motorbike rental is about $9 / day.

Rent a bike

Rent a bike and cycling around Angkor is also a good option in Siem Reap. Choose a bicycle, you should note there are hot sunshine days and Angkor is also a big city should be easy to get lost. However, biking is great to visit the magnificent monuments here.

Hot air balloon

This vehicle only serves tourists watching the panorama of Angkor from above. Near Angkor’s entrance ticket office, there is a hot-air balloon service.

Siem Reap travel blog: Some tips on how to saving budget (Siem Reap budget trip) when traveling to Siem Reap

Rent a motorcycle.

The roads in Siem Reap are quite similar to Vietnam, if you love freedom and do not want to be constrained time. Let’s rent a motorbike and drive all around the city. The normal price for a “quite good” car is about $42.73 per day.

Enjoy street food

Similar to Thailand, one of Siem Reap’s cost saving travel experiences (Siem Reap budget trip) is to enjoy street food. Do not worry about choice, you still have a range of dishes from rice, Phnom-penh clear rice noodle soup, fermented thick Vietnamese vermicelli soup, to fried foods, grilled from meat and insects. In addition, there are special desserts such as Cambodian sweets, Palmyra sweets…

Pre-booking tickets for tours, sightseeing, activities

The main cost for your Siem Reap travel itinerary is for getting from Vietnam to Cambodia. To reduce this cost, you can find cheap airfares. If you have enough patience, you can hunt for cheap airline tickets, even down up to $0.

In addition, you can also pre-book tickets for tours, entertainment services in Siem Reap. This will help you save time and do not have to worry about finding your way to the ruins here. Besides, buying tickets in advance also will help you save quite a lot of money.

Siem Reap blog: Where to stay in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is also similar to Phnom Penh, where the tourism infrastructure is developing very well, even in Siem Reap there are more classy resorts than in Phnom Penh . As the “home” of the Angkor complex, Siem Reap does not lack hotels, guesthouses, homestays and dorm accommodation on every road. However, according to our Siem Reap travel guide, you should choose one of 5 areas: National Highway 6, Western Street, Charles De Gaulle Street, Riverside and Angkor Night Market.

• Western Street: Around Pub Street and Siem Reap Night Market, there are many hotels, guesthouses for backpack travelers. Its advantage is very close to restaurants, cafes and entertainment nightlife and cheap. Room rates from $8-$20.
• Charles De Gaulle Street: The street connect the city of Siem Reap and Angkor, if you choose stay here, It is convenient for sightseeing. If you have a lot of money, like the convenience, luxury and quality of service, you should make a reservation at hotels on the National Highway 6, where is concentrate almost Siem Reap’s luxury hotels and resorts with standards from 3 to 5 stars. So, the hotels and resorts are quite expensive.
• Riverside: Suitable for those who have a good budget and prefer quiet.
• Angkor Night Market and National Highway 6 are often suitable for backpackers, low cost or young couple.

You can refer to some Siem Reap hotels and guesthouses below:

• Adan World Hostel: Psa Gner Road, Ta Phul Village. Price from $6 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).
• Blossoming Romduol Lodge: 83 Psar Kroung Road. Price from $4 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Angkor Villa Advisor: Taphoul Village, Svay Dungkom. Price from $6.86 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).
• Gazy Guesthouse: No.308, Group 8, Village Stung Thmey, Sangkat Svay Dang Kum. Price from $5.87 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Golden Orange Hotel: 007 Slorkram Village. Price from $17.16 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com ).
• New Home Hostel: No. 7 Makara Road, near AE High School. Price from $17.16 / night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Below are some best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

The Privilege Floor by LOTUS BLANC (Address: Kruos Village,, NR6, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 969 300), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $62/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Shinta Mani Shack (Address: Oum Khun St, Krong Siem Reap 00000, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 967 885), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $94/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Park Hyatt Siem Reap (Address: Sivutha Blvd, Krong Siem Reap 17259, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 211 234), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $150/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Jaya House River Park (Address: River Rd, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 962 555), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $148/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Shinta Mani Angkor (Address: Oum Khun St and 14th street, 00000 Shinta Mani St, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 964 123), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $107/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (Address: Sivatha Rd, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia / Phone: +855 63 760 428), a 5-star hotel with room rates from $59/night. (Check rates and reviews on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

You can find, check rates, availability & booking for Siem Reap hotels on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Siem Reap travel blog: Best places to visit and top things to do in Siem Reap

Siem reap city.

It is the center of all entertainment activities of Siem Reap besides the Khmer temples. You can visit the handicraft production areas, night markets like Angkor Night Market. Or take part in your culinary journey of Cambodia.

It is the oldest temple in Cambodia and the largest religious architecture in the world. Angkor Wat is like a crown with three towers rising high into the sky. If viewed from the top down, the towers as the lotus flowers are blossoming on the green water moat. The most impressive here is the old trees growing on the walls of the temples that create unique and mystical scenery. The temple was the capital of the Khmer empire. The temple also retains many mysterious stories about a powerful empire. It is one of the largest tourist attractions in Siem Reap and also the culmination of Khmer art. The Angkor complex has two temples, Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. You will have to buy tickets when you visit. There are 3 types of tickets: 1 day, 3 days and 7 days, respectively for price of $20, $40 and $60.

Angkor Thom

This is truly a paradise for those who want to learn about the ancient Khmer culture, one of the largest urban models in the world at that time. Also known as archaeological park, this place attracts a large number of archaeology students in every year. According to archeologists and researchers, Angkor’s prosperous city is home to more than 1 million people with advanced housing, palaces, temples, sewage systems … The art of architecture and urban planning can be said to be very developed compared to that time.

Some useful tips when you visit Angkor

• There are very few green trees in the Angkor Wat area , so you should prepare the hats, neat clothes to easy to moving.
• You should bring plenty of water, because the weather is dry, dehydrate quickly.
• Prepare a full camera battery because there are many beautiful things to captures in Angkor.
• Respect the space of worship in the temples.
• Do not harm the relics, especially the statues of the gods in the belief of the Cambodian people.

Bayon Temple

Located between the Angkor Thom complex, to reach this central temple, you have to cross the Victory Gate and the elaboration decorative corridors. It is the great Bayon temple of Angkor empire, which is famous for its special architecture, with four-sided statues and fine art stone carvings.

Ta Prohm Temple

Continued reading…

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Siem Reap Guide

Angkor temple guide, travel guide, living guide, cambodia guide.

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Siem Reap – Angkor International Airport (SAI): A Comprehensive Guide to the New Airport

Angkor visitor code of conduct, expat families in siem reap: your guide to the city’s best international schools, the king and royal family of cambodia: a comprehensive guide, top 10 activities for children in siem reap (updated in 2024), siem reap’s best souvenir & night markets to visit in 2023, top experiences for the adventurous in siem reap, the best places to shop for unique gifts and souvenirs in siem reap, travel & living guides.

Siem Reap is a popular destination for travelers and expats alike. Whether you want to visit the majestic Angkor Wat or live in a vibrant city with a rich culture, let Siemreap.net be your guide to help you plan your trip and settle in. Learn about visa requirements, transportation options, best areas to stay, suggested temple itineraries, and more.

Siem Reap is the most popular travel destination in Cambodia, and it is an excellent place to stay while experiencing the best the country has to offer. This Siem Reap Guide contains all of the practical travel information you will need to know to plan your trip to Siem Reap and Angkor Archaeological Park. We’ll review Siem Reap’s most popular areas, help you prepare for the weather and climate, review options for getting around, highlight the city’s most important festivals, and educate you on the history of the region.

Angkor Archaeological Park contains some of the most famous temples in the world, including the majestic Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm and Bayon. Most visitors are surprised to learn that there are dozens of temple complexes that can be visited within the park, and they often underestimate the amount of time needed to fully experience these historical sites. In addition, there are several stunning temples to be explored outside of the park. Our Angkor Temple Guide is a practical and essential resource for planning a trip to these ancient wonders in Siem Reap, Cambodia. It includes information on how and when to visit the best temples. It also includes information on accessing incredible temples located outside the Angkor park, like Beng Mealea, Banteay Srei, and the Roluos Group.

Traveling to Cambodia is less difficult than many people imagine. The Khmer people are usually very helpful to foreigners, and the country is very accessible to outsiders. However, it is still important to plan for your trip in order to make the best use of your time while there. This guide will advise you on important aspects of planning your trip, such as: travel insurance, passport & visa requirements, health and safety information, flight information, and important contact info of embassies. Also, we'll review how to safely travel overland to Siem Reap from elsewhere in southeast Asia.

For many Western people it's a dream to live in a tropical paradise like Cambodia. But expat life is not always as easy as you first imagined. This Siem Reap Living and Working guide will help you with some of the more common questions and problems! Also don't forget to join our Facebook group  to get in touch with other expats who can share their experiences with you!

Cambodia, also know as the Kingdom of Wonder, is slowly becoming one of the key tourist destinations in South East Asia. With its rich culture, historical significance and wealth of attractions, the country attracts luxury holiday-makers, backpackers and everyone in between. In this section, we give an overview of general and practical facts to make your visit to this beautiful country an unforgettable experience.

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• Siem Reap Travel Tips: Traverse Through The Glorious City Without Any Hassle!

28 Dec 2018

The UNESCO World Heritage site is a true wonder and is a place of spiritual tranquillity. After Phnom Penh, Siem Reap is the only other city in Cambodia, which mesmerises everyone who visits the place. You will be surprised though, that Angkor Wat is not the only spot worth visiting in Siem Reap; it has so much more to offer. This is your guide to this wonderful town. So, let’s get this journey started with a few Siem Reap travel tips .

8 Siem Reap Travel Tips

Go off-track, try these things and soak in the culture of this lovely little town. For the adventurous ones, there are also quad bikes and also hot air balloon rides, if you are up to it.

1. Find a place to stay for easy access to the city

Image Source

1st option is to stay close to the night market. Here, you will find a lot of varieties, right from youth hostels to guesthouses to even boutique hotels. This area is always bustling with things to explore and you are one of those who likes to be in the center of the action, you should consider staying in this area.

The 2nd option is the Charles de Gaulle Boulevard, which is the main road to Angkor Wat. If you are one of those travelers, who are willing to spend extra bucks for some calm and peace and want to enjoy the hi-lifestyle, then this is the place you need to stay in. There are many five star hotels and boutique hotels in this area.

The 3rd option is the riverside. Here, there is a mix of high and budget resorts and hotels. There are boutique hotels of high and middle range and guesthouses to choose from. As a bonus, you get to see the amazing riverside of the town, all bright and lively.

Must Read: Waterfalls Near Siem Reap: To Get Your Inner Waterbaby Out In Cambodia

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2. Learn when is the peak time

The best time to visit the town is from November to February. Since it is the winter, the weather is cool and gives you the best chances to explore this temple town. There are quite a few festivals like the Water and Moon festival and the Sea Festival. If you do not mind the rains, the temples are said to be in all their glory during the season. However, if you are seeking to visit the town for an off-beat experience, this season is not right for you. In such cases, you should either visit in September-October or March-April

3. Pick up a tuk-tuk for pocket-friendly travel around the city

Getting around Siem Reap is quite easy and there are many options for that too. If you prefer comfort and want to travel in style, of course, you can hire the taxis available in plenty.However, one of the best and fun ways to travel around Siem Reap are the tuk-tuks. With the wind blowing against your face and jumping up and down whenever there are bumps – this will be one of the thrilling experiences of your life.

You could also rent out bicycles and explore the town on your own, at your own pace.

Suggested Read: Trekking In Siem Reap: Treading The Unexplored Pathways Of Nature In Cambodia

4. Follow the Buddhist Etiquettes when visiting temples

Sure, Siem Reap is a tourist destination, but it is also the place which houses the famous Angkor Wat temple and also has a great influence of Buddhism. So, you need to make sure that while you are at a Buddhist temple there, you cover your entire body, including your shoulders; avoid wearing sleeveless or carry a stole along. Wear footwear which is easy to put and remove, since you need to remove your footwear often at all those temples.

Suggested Read: 10 Villas In Siem Reap That Are Stylish As Well As Affordable

5. Sunset Point At Angkor Wat

Well, you already know about Angkor Wat. The temple complex is one of the largest religious monuments in the world and you’ll need a full day, probably even two days to explore the entire area. Don’t miss the sunset here at the Sunset Point; one of the most beautiful spots that you will ever see. The Angkor Archaeological Park, in which Angkor Wat is also situated, has a lot of other places to explore. You might want to get a three-day pass to explore even the smallest of the temples here. There are also some day trips from Siem Reap to places like the Phnom Kulen National Park or the Banteay Srei.

6. Dont bargain at the floating market

The floating market is a part of a the floating village which is home to the fishermen in this area and their families. The shops and houseshere are made out of wood and built on strong stilts, which can withstand even floods. It houses people from the ethnic Vietnamese and Cham communities, as well. When we say floating maket and village, it is literally floating on the water – everything from shops, schools to churches – it is all floating on the lake. People who sell things here are all direct sellers and they sell things at reasonable prices. We suggest avoiding bargaining here, because it is considered rude here to do so. Be kind and chat up with these fishermen families and they mightjust invite you to share a meal a with them.

Suggested Read: Museums In Siem Reap: 5 Museums That Depict The History Of Cambodia

7. Buy Khmer Artwork from the Night Market

When you make your travel plans, you will realize that this town cannot be explored in a day and needs at least a few days to experience everything. If you are looking for options to stay in Siem Reap, there are plenty, depending on where you want to stay and the budget that you have in mind.

Team this up with your visit to Pub Street, where you could party the Cambodian way! The night market is the place where the action is towards the evening.We suggest shopping for local handicrafts especially Khmer artwork which is exclusibe here, and renowned cross the globe.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Siem Reap: 6 Vibrant Markets That Shopaholics Must Not Miss!

8. Try the Fish Spa Therapy

The nooks and corners of the town is filled with these little shops, who have tanks filled with the tiny fish. Go ahead and try some fish pedicure, with these flesh-eating fish nibbling away all those dry skin off your feet. If you have not tried it yet, you definitely should as it as an experience by itself. But, beware. Sometimes, these street shops do not clean the water after a session. So, make sure it is cleaned before you put your feet into one of those tanks.

Further Read: Top 10 Holy Siem Reap Temples You Should Stop By

So, you must have realized by now that Siem Reap is not just about temples and spirituality. You could also try one of those Siem Reap city tours like the Street food evening tour or the bike tours. Siem Reap is a beautiful town with the right mix of ancient culture and modernism. These Siem Reap travel tips will help you have a fun-filled and complete experience of this town and its surroundings. So, pack your bags for Cambodia and enjoy this wonder of a town called Siem Reap!

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Trip.Best: Siem Reap

Top 12 Luxury Hotels in Siem Reap

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Popular destinations.

Experience Siem Reap

Angkor National Museum

Bayon Temple

Banteay Srei

Ta Prohm Temple

Angkor Thom

Tonle Sap Lake

Prasat Beng Mealea

Phnom Bakheng

Where to stay, prince angkor hotel & spa, empress angkor resort & spa, j7 angkor hotel, metta residence & spa, angkor paradise hotel, shinta mani angkor & bensley collection pool villas, regency angkor hotel, sokha angkor resort, angkor palace resort & spa, park hyatt siem reap, bensley collection pool villas - shinta mani angkor, golden temple retreat, what to eat.

Mahob Khmer Cuisine

My Little Cafe

Chanrey Tree Restaurant

Khmer Kitchen

Hard Rock Cafe

Amok Restaurant

Slek Morn Restaurant

Fresh Fruit Factory

Malis Restaurant Siem Reap

The Square 24 Restaurant

Jungle Burger Sports Bar & Bistro

Discover the real siem reap with a local expert.

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Passing Thru Travel

One-Day Adventure: Unlocking the Wonders of Siem Reap, Cambodia

Posted: March 6, 2024 | Last updated: March 6, 2024

Now, my third visit to Siem Reap it continues to blow my mind! It’s the gateway to Angkor’s ancient world, a city that tells a thousand stories of historical grandeur. For travelers who have just one day to explore, my guide is crafted to showcase the best of Siem Reap. From sunrise at Angkor Wat to a tranquil evening by the Siem Reap River, this guide ensures you make the most of your day.

Traveler Profile: Katie, UK

Location: Siem Reap

Time of Year: Late spring

Travel Goals: Magic, history, adventure, photography, and luxury.

A Brief Insight Into Siem Reap

Siem Reap has a history deeply intertwined with the Angkorian era, serving as the gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor. ‘Siem Reap’ literally means ‘Siam Defeated,’ referring to a 16th-century battle against the Thai kingdom. The city gained international prominence in the early 20th century when French explorers ‘rediscovered’ the nearby Angkor Wat temple complex, the largest religious monument in the world and a symbol of Khmer architectural genius.

Despite suffering during the Khmer Rouge regime, Siem Reap has since experienced significant growth, especially in tourism. Today, it is a cultural hub, combining its rich historical heritage with modern development, attracting millions of visitors annually to its temples, markets, and vibrant cultural scene.

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Begin your day with a pre-dawn journey to Angkor Wat, the jewel in the crown of Cambodian heritage. As the sun rises, it illuminates the temple’s iconic lotus-like towers; its magnificence has awed observers for centuries. Explore the vast galleries adorned with intricate bas-reliefs depicting Hindu epics. The central sanctuary offers a sense of tranquility and spiritual power.

If lucky, you might encounter a saffron-robed, lonesome monk meditating in the early morning stillness. This experience is a visual feast and an extraordinary journey into the heart of ancient Khmer civilization.

My Insider’s Tip: Arrive at the ticket office early to be at the front of the queue. For a less crowded experience, position yourself near the northern or western ponds to watch the spectacular sunrise.

Explore Ta Prohm and Angkor Thom

After Angkor Wat, head to Ta Prohm, the temple famous for its intertwining trees and roots. This temple, a fusion of nature and architecture, provides a unique perspective on the Angkorian era. Continue to Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and visit the Bayon Temple, renowned for its 216 serene stone faces.

My Insider’s Tip: Visit Ta Prohm early to avoid crowds and experience the mystical atmosphere in relative solitude.

Cambodian Cuisine in Siem Reap Town

For lunch, head back to Siem Reap town. The city offers various dining options, from traditional Khmer eateries to chic cafes. Try dishes like Amok or Lok Lak to experience the local flavors.

My Insider’s Tip: Seek out smaller, local-run restaurants for an authentic, more intimate dining experience.

Artisans Angkor and Siem Reap Markets

After a breather and time to reflect on a magical morning, visit Artisans Angkor, a social enterprise supporting Cambodian arts and crafts. Here, you can observe artisans at work and purchase authentic Khmer handicrafts. Later, explore Siem Reap’s vibrant markets, including the Old Market and Night Market, where you can shop for souvenirs, textiles, and artworks.

My Insider’s Tip: Engage with the artisans to learn more about their craft and the stories behind their art.

Relaxation at the Siem Reap River

As the day winds down, take a stroll or a relaxing bike ride along the Siem Reap River. Lined with trees and small parks, the river provides a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

My Insider’s Tip: Stop by one of the riverside cafes for a refreshing drink and watch the world go by.

Divine Early Dinner

Stay at the Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas hotel and dine in Kroya by Chef Chanrith where you can savor a fusion of traditional Khmer flavors and innovative culinary techniques. The dining experience, emphasizing sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine, includes standout dishes like 26-day butter-aged beef tenderloin “Lok Lak” and Banteay Srei village jackfruit curry dip.

The Extraordinary Phare Circus

Experience Cambodia’s contemporary art scene at the Phare Circus in the evening. This dynamic and inspiring show, performed by talented local artists, blends storytelling with traditional and modern circus arts.

My Insider’s Tip: Select a show that resonates with your interests, as each performance uniquely reflects various aspects of Cambodian culture and history. No animals are in the circus performances.

Explore Pub Street and Nightlife

If you have the wherewithal, end your day on Pub Street, the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife. This lively street is lined with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. It’s the perfect place to experience the city’s modern vibes and enjoy a cocktail or two.

My Insider’s Tip: Venture into the side alleys for less crowded and more unique bar experiences.

Accommodations and Ideal Travel Times

As a fan of Bill Bensley, I love Shinta Mani Angkor and Bensley Collection Pool Villas which is in a tranquil and leafy setting within the French Quarter of Siem Reap. Pool Villa guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne and have a butler who will look after their every whim throughout their stay.

When To Travel: The best time to visit Siem Reap is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool.

How To Get There: Siem Reap is accessible by air through Siem Reap International Airport, which connects to many international and domestic destinations. The city can also be reached by bus or taxi from Phnom Penh and other major Cambodian cities.

The Bottom Line

In Siem Reap, every moment is an opportunity to explore historical wonders. As you journey through the city, from the ancient ruins of Angkor to the vibrant streets of downtown, you’ll witness the Khmer Empire’s enduring legacy and modern Cambodia’s resilience.

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The post One-Day Adventure: Unlocking the Wonders of Siem Reap, Cambodia republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Geet Theerawat.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Review of our trip Siem Reap - Siem Reap Forum

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We were there mid March and it was v hot. So we started early everyday to make sure we are back at our hotel by mid day.

Getting the visa was a smooth process on arrival.

Stayed at Anansaya hotel - it was perfect for what we needed. Would say a superior 3 star. The location is about 10min outside of town but the hotel provides complimentary drop offs. Means it is v quiet location. Had a v good size pool. Our room was v comfortable loads of space and large wet room for shower. Note there are no lifts.

Breakfast was a lovely spread incl an omelette station.

We had a spa treatment everyday. The girls were lovely and we enjoyed the massage and facial.

Our room rate included airport transfers and daily massage. It was great value for money.

Spent 2 days visiting the temples. Following a review on this forum we used Jame. Who we also now highly recommend. He is v sweet and happy to accommodate. Always on time & communication before and during trip was excellent. Every time we came back to tuk tuk from visiting a temple he had cold water and a cold towel - this was a life saver in the heat. If anyone would like his contact details pls dm me.

Restaurants:

Pot & Pan - food was delicious. We really enjoyed the food here. It is also ridiculously cheap.

Spoons - this was a lovely dinner. Great atmosphere and it is all for a good cause. Cocktails were amazing as well as the food. We had a lovely evening here. Look it up to understand the concept.

3 replies to this topic

Thanks for taking the time to post, and great to see that you had a good time.

This March does seem to have been quite a warm one, we still have the really hot months to come!

Thank you for your review. It's always great to hear of other people's experiences. I hate to think of how hot it will be in June when we go, but I guess we'll do as you did and get back to the hotel to rest in the afternoon. Will look at the Anansaya.

Sent a pm about your guide

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Siem Reap Hotels and Places to Stay

• Why SHOULDN'T I visit an orphanage?
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• What's good to do with kids in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap Guide

Siem reap guide, where to eat in sr, big boy burger bar and grill, hari bakery & restaurant, old beijing dumpling house, thai cuisine restaurant siem reap cambodia / kouy tiew touk, somaha restaurant and wine bar.

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Siem Reap with Kids – Family Travel Guide 2024

Table of Contents

If you are planning to visit Siem Reap with kids in 2024, this in-depth travel guide will tell you everything that you need to know to plan and prepare for your trip.

Cambodia is outside many people’s comfort zones, even if they don’t have kids, so taking a little time to research, plan, and prepare for your trip is essential. We have designed this article to be a one-stop, in-depth guide to help you prepare every aspect of your trip to Siem Reap with kids.

We have included information and advice about activities, food, accommodation, prices, transportation, and much more. There really are some important things that you need to know before you visit Siem Reap with kids. This article is designed to save you stress and problems, maximizing the chance of an amazing family experience in Siem Reap.

We have lived in Siem Reap, and we have also traveled Cambodia extensively with our own kids. So, we have a lot of inside knowledge, experience, and top tips to help you plan your own family adventures in Siem Reap.

Looking for a place to stay? Don’t miss these fantastic family hotels in Siem Reap

Learn more – Don’t miss this in-depth guide – the best things to do in Siem Reap with kids

Is it worth visiting Siem Reap with kids?

Yes, in our opinion, it is definitely worth visiting Siem Reap with kids. We have visited several times with our own kids, and we have always had an amazing time. Siem Reap is a very unique destination. It is packed with adventure, beauty, culture, and epic experiences that will leave a deep and lasting impression on your kids.

Siem Reap really has a lot to offer different families. For example, if you are traveling with active and intrepid teenagers, you may want to get off the beaten tracks and find some ways to help out in the rural villages around Siem Reap. If you are educating your kids on the road, you will definitely be interested in the rich culture and heritage of Angkor Wat . There are many lesser-visited temples where you can connect with the unique culture and history. Siem Reap also has something to offer for families with younger kids. There are some fascinating markets around Siem Reap, and you can even find an indoor soft play space in town. Whether you are planning an active adventurous trip or you want a slower and more relaxing family, Siem Reap does have something for everyone.

Cambodia is one of the most challenging countries to travel in Southeast Asia, so we are not pretending that it is an easy trip. In this article, we will help equip and inform you to prepare for your trip so you know what to expect. Preparation is everything when it comes to family travel in a challenging destination like Siem Reap.

What are the best activities in Siem Reap for kids?

Here are the 10 best activities to do in Siem Reap with kids:

• Explore Angkor Wat – A one-day pass costs $37, and a three-day pass costs $62. Children under 12 are FREE.
• Try wakeboarding – 2 hours: $24, 1 day: $32, 2 days: $49 (including kit & instructor).
• Visit the Asia Plaza Playground – $1.50 for the full day.
• Challenge yourself on the Aqua Land inflatable – $8 for the full day.
• Explore the night markets.
• Visit Cinemax – $8 for a movie.
• Angkor Eye Ferris Wheel – $12 for an adult and $6 for kids (under 12). Under 3 years old are FREE.
• Try a fish spa (plenty around Siem Reap town – only $1 – $2) 
• Visit the floating village (don’t miss this amazing half day trip from Siem Reap )
• Watch a cultural performance – Free at Temple Bar on Pub Street at 7:30 pm every night.

Don’t miss our in-depth & dedicate guide – Angkor Wat with kids

What is the best way to get around in Siem Reap with kids?

Don’t miss our full guide – The best ways to get around in Siem Reap

If you are planning to explore Siem Reap, you will need to have a transportation plan that is suitable for your itinerary. However, if you are traveling around Siem Reap with kids, your transport options will be fairly limited. There is no public transport system in Siem Reap, and car taxis are very rare. Your main and best option for traveling around is to take a tuk-tuk. This is a small wagon pulled by a motorbike, and it is a fun, convenient, and affordable way to explore Siem Reap with kids.

The good news is it is relatively easy to take a tuk-tuk in Siem Reap. There are plenty of drivers waiting around, and they generally speak a very good level of English and have an excellent knowledge of the local attractions. All you need to do is find a driver and agree on the price. You will probably need to barter to get a fair price. However, if you are not familiar with Cambodia, it can be hard to get a grip on fair prices. Here are some examples of reasonable prices for common routes in Siem Reap:

• A short journey around Siem Reap (1km – 3km): $1 – $2.
• A medium-length half-day journey with an hour or two waiting: $8 – $10.
• A long full-day journey (for example, exploring Angkor Wat): $15 – $20.

Drivers will often try to charge a lot more than this. They may claim that it costs more because you have kids. This is not correct. The price in Siem Reap is for the tuk-tuk (which can normally take up to 4 – 5 people). It is important to be firm and stick to your price. Remember, you can always walk on; in some cases, you may wish to pay your driver more. We recommend agreeing to a fair price, and if they do a good job, give them a generous tip at the end of the day. This creates a culture of fair pricing and gratitude.

Don’t miss our Full guide to taking a tuk tuk in Cambodia

What are the best places to stay in Siem Reap for families?

1 garden village guest house.

This is one of the best options if you are hoping to be in Siem Reap and looking for a budget place to stay with kids. Garden Village is a relatively large guest house with a restaurant and bar on site. They also have an outdoor swimming pool and a sandy volleyball pitch. Garden Village is very close to several small supermarkets and is also opposite the Temple Design Bar and Restaurant. There are plenty of tuk-tuk drivers in the area, so it is very easy to arrange transportation around here. This area is a real hub, and Garden Village also has some excellent clean and comfortable family-friendly accommodation for great prices.

2 The Moon Residence & Spa

This is a small secluded hidden gem situated in the heart of Siem Reap (just 5 minutes from the Old Market). This mid-range hotel offers very stylish, luxurious, and comfortable accommodation. The hotel is surrounded by trees and tropical foliage, creating a peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Siem Reap. It also has an outdoor swimming pool. They also have a spacious and stylish connecting family room that can comfortably sleep up to 4 people. The room has a trendy Asian interior design theme and a large bathtub. The Moon Residence offers a very comfortable stay and great value for money.

3 Central Suite Residence

If you are looking for a luxurious Siem Reap hotel with kids, then we highly recommend Central Suite Residence. This unique hotel has a traditional Cambodian interior design theme with contemporary touches. It also has a very spacious and impressive family suite, which can comfortably sleep up to 4 people. It has a beautiful unique open plan interior design scene. This beautiful hotel has excellent facilities, including an on-site bar and restaurant and an outdoor swimming pool. It is also a very short walk from Pub Street . There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants nearby, and it is very easy to find tuk-tuks. So if you are looking to splash out in Siem Reap, definitely check out Central Suite Residence.

What are the challenges of exploring Siem Reap with kids?

If you are planning to explore Siem Reap with kids, you will encounter some big challenges. Firstly, Cambodia has a hot tropical climate. During the dry season, it can be intensely sunny and hot during the days, and during the rainy season, it is often warm and humid. You can also experience intensive thunderstorms, and some areas around Siem Reap are liable to flooding.

It is important to be prepared for the climate. We recommend that you consider sun protection, including sunglasses, sun hats, high-factor sun cream, and a travel umbrella, which can also be useful. We have also found it very useful to keep our valuable items in a dry sack; this keeps them safe from pickpockets and sudden tropical downpours.

The hot climate also brings along unwanted insects and creepy crawlies. These can make their way into your room, so if you are squeamish, you need to be prepared for unwelcome visitors from time to time. Moreover, there are also plenty of mosquitoes around in Cambodia, and we do recommend using mosquito repellent, especially during the cooler hours of the day.

Cambodia is also a developing country, and Siem Reap is prone to experiencing power cuts. Some hotels and guest houses have their own generators, so they can keep the power running during power cuts. However, if the power goes off in the night and your hotel does not have a generator, your room can get pretty hot and unpleasant very quickly.

Although Cambodia is a developing country, prices for some products can be relatively high compared to other countries in the region (such as Thailand). So, if you are trying to travel Cambodia on a low budget with kids, you may find Siem Reap relatively expensive.

How do you find kid-friendly food in Siem Reap?

If you are staying in the Siem Reap town center, there is a wide range of food available. Local Cambodian food is not very kid-friendly, and if you buy street food around Siem Reap, it may not be very hygienic. So, we do not recommend jumping straight into eating lots of street food with kids. There are cafes and restaurants around serving local and international dishes. Here are some examples of kid-friendly food that you can find in Siem Reap:

• Pancakes: Many cafes, guest houses, and restaurants serve pancakes, and this is a great option for breakfast with kids.
• Yogurt and muesli: Many cafes and guest houses in Siem Reap have yogurt and muesli on the menu.
• Continental breakfast: In Siem Reap, you can normally find plenty of places offering a continental breakfast, including eggs, bread, jam, and sausages.
• Baguettes: You can often find plenty of street-side stores selling baguettes for $1, including fillings such as cheese, jam, Nutella, or pickled salads.
• Waffles: You may occasionally see people selling fresh waffles on the street side; these are normally great value for money.
• Western food: There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Siem Reap serving a range of Western food such as pizzas, pasta, and burgers.
• Fruit: You can also find lots of markets selling a range of fresh fruits in Siem Reap; bananas, oranges, and jackfruit are all common in Siem Reap.

There are also plenty of convenience stores around Siem Reap; they sell a good range of snacks and treats, including things like bread, chocolate, cakes, biscuits, crisps, and a range of drinks.

We also want to give a shout out to Angkor Tacos on Sok San Road. They serve delicious freshly made tacos ($1.50 – $3). The couple who run Angkor Tacos are very friendly and lovely. So support a local business and eat some tacos!

What things can you buy in Siem Reap?

Siem Reap is a relatively developed town with a wide range of shops and market stores. You can find large supermarkets that sell an excellent range of food and drinks. There are also lots of convenience stores around selling food, snacks, and drinks. Supermarkets and convenience stores also sell products like nappies, wet wipes, and baby milk. Alternatively, there are a couple of specialist baby stores situated in Siem Reap. These shops sell an excellent range of baby products, including milk bottles, formula, baby toys, and baby clothing.

There are also several large markets in Siem Reap. The Old Market, situated close to the river, is open throughout the day, and you can buy fresh fruit, veggies, and local food. They also have an extensive section selling practical stuff, including homeware, hardware, and outdoor clothing. The night markets in Siem Reap open in the evening and sell a wide range of clothing, including kids’ clothes, art, craft, and gifts. You can find plenty of kid-friendly products in the market.

Top tip: If you’re planning to visit a night market with kids, speak to your kids about their expectations. If they get too excited about buying something, the market seller may try to charge a higher price. So, we do not recommend taking an excited child around the market when you are trying to barter with the local vendors.

What are the amenities like for families in Siem Reap?

The amenities in Siem Reap are relatively limited and very basic. For example, if you’re traveling with a baby or a toddler, it is very rare to find baby changing rooms. We recommend traveling with a compact baby changing mat. Cafes and restaurants rarely have a baby chair, so you will need to be prepared to hold your baby during meals. It is also rare to find kids’ play parks and kid-friendly attractions.

You may also be wondering about how to do laundry in Siem Reap. The good news is that laundry is relatively easy and cheap. Most guest houses and hotels offer a laundry service; it normally costs $1 per kilogram, and your laundry will be returned clean, dry, and folded one day later. For an average family, it is likely to cost around $3 – $5 for a load of laundry. Most of your clothing is likely to be small and relatively light in this hot climate.

In terms of water, you will generally need to rely on buying water bottles to keep your family going. It normally costs 3,000 Reil – 4,000 Reil ($0.75 – $1) for a 1.5-liter bottle of water. You can buy water all over the place in Siem Reap (it will be more expensive in Angkor Wat!). If you are staying a little longer, we recommend buying a larger water bottle and using this to top up your own bottle; this will reduce the amount of plastic waste you produce. This is also a cheaper solution, as large 5 – 10-liter bottles are much cheaper per liter.

How do you prepare for a trip to Siem Reap with kids?

Prior preparation and planning are very important if you are planning to visit Siem Reap with kids. We recommend spending some time working out exactly what you want to do and when you will do it. You will also need to consider your transportation around Siem Reap. If possible, try to book your hotel in advance. You will always be able to find accommodation in Siem Reap, even if you are leaving it to the last minute. However, the best hotels often get booked up quite early, so book as early as possible. We recommend having some offline maps available on your phone for the destinations you hope to visit during your trip.

It is also important to have some clean and undamaged dollar bills for your arrival. We recommend arriving with sufficient funds for your first day or two; this will give you time to find a cash machine before you run out of money. Once you have sorted out your flights and accommodation, it is important to buy a good travel insurance policy that covers you and your entire family throughout the duration of your trip. Make sure that your policy includes travel in Cambodia and also includes medical repatriation cover if required. (This covers you for those extremely expensive nightmare situations where you need to be repatriated to your home country in the event of a medical emergency.)

Siem Reap with kids – essential packing list

This is not designed to be a comprehensive packing list. Every family will have their own unique and personal packing list; however, we wanted to share some ideas of essential items to bring along. We have focused on things you may miss when you are packing for your trip to Siem Reap with kids.

• Sunscreen (SPF 50) – You can buy sunscreen in Cambodia, but it is very expensive.
• Sun hats and sunglasses.
• A small travel umbrella.
• A small day bag for day trips around Siem Reap.
• A dry sack to keep your valuables safe and dry – You can get sudden tropical downpours in Cambodia.
• Clean new dollar bills for your arrival.
• A good international bank card (and a backup card).
• Mosquito repellent.
• One warm layer for the evening or air-conditioned buildings.
• Swimming stuff and travel towel.
• Toiletries and any medication you need for your trip.
• Loose, light-fitting clothing.
• Wet wipes (This is useful even if you are not traveling with a baby; Cambodia can be a dirty, dusty country, and it can be nice to freshen up with a wet wipe from time to time).
• A head torch (Siem Reap experiences power cuts in the evening and at night; sometimes it is helpful to have a head torch).
• Tech travel adapters and charger cables.

Is it safe to travel to Siem Reap with kids?

Yes, it is relatively safe to travel to Siem Reap with kids. Any travel comes with inherent risks, and it is always important to research and evaluate the risks carefully and make sure that you are taking precautions to protect yourself and your family when you are traveling. Cambodia is relatively stable politically; however, we do recommend that you keep an eye on the latest information. We have found the information on the UK FCO website to be relevant, helpful, and up-to-date. Never travel against the advice of your consulate because this can invalidate your travel insurance.

Here are some of the more common and prominent risks if you’re traveling around Siem Reap with kids. Firstly, be aware that many hotels and guest houses have outdoor swimming pools. If your kids are not swimmers, make sure that you supervise them carefully. The roads in Cambodia can be fairly crowded and intense; it is important to cross carefully as pedestrians don’t necessarily have a right of way here. As a tropical country, there is also a risk of encountering dangerous animals such as snakes. Always take care, especially if you are exploring wild areas.

There is a risk of dengue fever and malaria, especially in rural areas. We also recommend making sure that you and your family have a full set of up-to-date travel vaccinations. Speak to your GP or a travel clinic to get more advice about illness and disease in Cambodia. You can also find a lot of up-to-date travel health information on the NaTHNaC Website .

All of this may sound off-putting; keep in mind that Cambodia is a popular tourist country, and many travelers have safe and amazing trips to Siem Reap throughout the year.

Poverty & Family Travel in Siem Reap

Don’t miss our article on Ethical Volunteering in Siem Reap

Cambodia is also a very poor country, and you and your family will come face-to-face with a lot of intense poverty both in Siem Reap and in the surrounding areas. It is important to be prepared for this and be ready to help your children understand the poverty in the region.

Exploring Siem Reap with your kids is a great way to teach your children about the complexities and nuances of ethical charity work in a developing country. If you have time, you could find ways to help out and volunteer to support poor families in and around Siem Reap.

For example, we recommend talking to your children about the street children they will see in Siem Reap. If your kids are older, they may be able to understand issues such as organized begging and trafficking. If your children are younger, you could talk to them about ways to meet immediate needs. Here are a few practical ways that you could help out with your kids in Siem Reap:

• Buy some hot, fresh street food and give it out to the street kids – In our experience, the street kids really appreciate hot, fresh food because it cannot be returned (if you buy them something that is packaged, they may not be allowed to it – there is normally an adult or older kid watching them and checking).
• Buy them an ice cream and open it before you give it to them.
• Buy the kids some fresh fruit (again, try to open or cut it before you give it to the kids).

Seeing street kids can feel unfamiliar and intimidating at first; it is important to be friendly and confident. The street kids in Cambodia are actually very kind and friendly, and they enjoy talking to people. This is a great way to break down barriers and model healthy interactions to your children.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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