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Siem Reap
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🇰🇭 Cambodia

Siem Reap

Gateway to Ancient Wonders and Khmer Culture — Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat and its surrounding temple complexes. Beyond the ancient stones, discover a thriving city alive with bustling markets, rich culinary traditions, and a warm Khmer spirit.

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Siem Reap in 60 seconds

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  • 📍Top places to visit: Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm
  • 🍽️What to eat: Fish Amok, Lok Lak, Khmer Red Curry
  • 🗓️Best time to visit: The dry season from November to March offers pleasant temperatures and minimal…

Good to know

Best time to visit
The dry season from November to March offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rain, ideal for exploring the temples. April and May are the hottest months, while the wet season from June to October brings lush greenery and fewer crowds.
Getting around
Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient way to navigate Siem Reap and reach the temples. Bicycle rentals and taxis are also readily available.
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR), though US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions. It's useful to have small USD bills and some Riel for smaller purchases.
Language
Khmer is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and by many vendors and guides.
Safety
Siem Reap is generally a very safe city for tourists. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so staying aware of your surroundings is advisable.
Daily budget
Budget: $25-50, Midrange: $50-100 per day
💶 Travel money in Siem ReapCurrency, cards vs cash, costs & tipping in Siem Reap
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Top places to visit

1Temple

Angkor Wat

The iconic centerpiece of the Angkorian era, this vast temple complex is a marvel of Khmer architecture and spirituality.

2Temple

Bayon Temple

Famous for its serene, smiling stone faces, Bayon is located at the center of Angkor Thom and offers a unique, enigmatic atmosphere.

3Temple

Ta Prohm

This atmospheric temple is famously intertwined with massive tree roots, creating a jungle-clad, cinematic setting.

4Landmark

Angkor Thom

A massive walled city that served as the last capital of the Khmer Empire, containing many significant temples and structures.

5Temple

Banteay Srei

Known as the 'Citadel of Women,' this intricate temple is renowned for its exquisite, well-preserved stone carvings.

6Temple

Phnom Bakheng

This hilltop temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding Angkor complex, especially stunning at sunset.

7Nightlife

Pub Street

The buzzing heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, lined with bars, restaurants, and street food stalls.

8Market

Old Market (Psar Chas)

A lively traditional market where you can find souvenirs, textiles, local produce, and street food.

9Shopping

Artisans Angkor

A social enterprise that supports Khmer artisans, offering high-quality handicrafts like silk, stone carving, and lacquerware.

10Museum

Cambodia Landmine Museum

An important museum detailing the impact of landmines in Cambodia and the ongoing efforts for demining.

11Museum

Angkor National Museum

Provides context and historical background to the Angkorian empire through extensive artifacts and exhibits.

12Park

Tonle Sap Lake

Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, home to unique floating villages and diverse wildlife.

13Viewpoint

Kompong Phluk

A stilted village on Tonle Sap Lake, offering a fascinating glimpse into life on the water.

14Activity

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

An incredible performance by young Cambodians, showcasing acrobatics, theater, and music with a social mission.

15Café

Miss Wong Cocktail Bar

A stylish, atmospheric bar offering creative cocktails in a retro setting.

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Things to do

Sunrise at Angkor Wat

Witness the magical spectacle of the sun rising behind the iconic temple silhouette.

Explore the Angkor Temples

Dedicate several days to discovering the vast archaeological park, including remote temples like Beng Mealea.

Take a Khmer Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Cambodian dishes using fresh local ingredients.

Visit a Floating Village

Experience the unique lifestyle of communities living on stilted houses or boats on Tonle Sap Lake.

Explore the Local Markets

Wander through the Old Market or night markets for souvenirs, local crafts, and street food.

Experience Phare Circus

Enjoy a captivating performance by talented young Cambodian artists that blends art and social engagement.

Where to stay

Wat Bo Area

Suits travelers seeking a mix of local life, guesthouses, restaurants, and proximity to the river.

Sok San Road

Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers looking for lively bars and affordable accommodation.

Kandal Village

Appeals to those interested in boutique shopping, trendy cafes, and a more relaxed, upscale vibe.

Siem Reap Riverside

Perfect for visitors wanting upscale hotels, fine dining, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the main bustle.

What to eat

Fish Amok

A creamy, fragrant steamed fish curry often served in a banana leaf bowl.

Lok Lak

Stir-fried marinated beef cubes served with a peppery lime dipping sauce, often with rice and a fried egg.

Khmer Red Curry

A milder, coconut-milk-based curry with chicken or beef, vegetables, and a hint of lemongrass.

Nom Banh Chok

Cambodian noodles served in a light, fish-based broth with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Bai Sach Chrouk

A popular breakfast dish of grilled pork over rice, often served with pickled vegetables.

Kralan

Sweet sticky rice cooked with coconut milk and beans inside bamboo tubes.

Day trips

Kulen Mountain (Phnom Kulen)

A sacred mountain with waterfalls, a river of a thousand lingas, and ancient ruins, about a 1.5-hour drive away.

Beng Mealea

An unrestored jungle temple, offering a wilder, more adventurous exploration, approximately a 1.5-hour drive away.

Koh Ker

A remote temple complex featuring a unique pyramid-like structure, about a 2-hour drive from Siem Reap.

Insider tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Purchase an Angkor Pass for multiple-day access to the temples.
  • Stay hydrated – carry plenty of water, especially during temple visits.
  • Learn a few basic Khmer phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
  • Bargain respectfully in markets, but know when prices are already fair.
  • Consider hiring a licensed guide for a deeper understanding of the temples' history.

Traveler reviews

4.8
★★★★★
5 traveler reviews
S
Sarah K.
United States
★★★★★
last month

Siem Reap completely stole my heart! Beyond the awe-inspiring Angkor Wat at sunrise (a must-do!), I loved exploring the smaller temples like Ta Prohm, where trees have embraced the ancient stones. The street food, especially the smoky kuy teav, was a delicious adventure every night.

H
Hiroshi T.
Japan
★★★★☆
in April

The scale of Angkor Thom was truly humbling. While the crowds at the main sites were significant, finding quieter moments within the complex and visiting Banteay Srei with its intricate carvings was incredibly rewarding. The fresh fruit shakes were a welcome respite from the heat.

A
Aisha R.
United Arab Emirates
★★★★★
two weeks ago

The energy of Siem Reap is infectious! Watching a traditional Apsara dance performance was magical, and I highly recommend taking a cooking class to learn the secrets of Khmer cuisine. The people are so welcoming and their smiles are as bright as the Cambodian sun.

M
Mateo P.
Argentina
★★★★★
in May

Sunrise over Angkor Wat is an experience I'll never forget. Beyond the temples, the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake offered a fascinating glimpse into a different way of life. Don't miss trying some fresh amok curry – it's unbelievably flavorful!

P
Priya S.
India
★★★★★
last December

Siem Reap is a sensory delight. The bustling night market was perfect for picking up unique souvenirs, and the local coffee culture is surprisingly vibrant. Exploring the Royal Palace grounds offered a sense of grandeur and history.

Good to know — FAQ

How long should I spend in Siem Reap?
To fully appreciate the Angkor temples and the city, a minimum of three to four days is recommended. This allows for exploring the main temples, enjoying local culture, and perhaps a day trip.
What is the best way to buy an Angkor Pass?
You can purchase the Angkor Pass at the official ticket center before entering the archaeological park. It's advisable to buy it in the morning to maximize your first day's visit.
Can I drink tap water in Siem Reap?
No, tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water or water purified through reputable means. Many hotels provide filtered water stations.
What is the best way to experience the temples?
Hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the day is a popular and affordable way to visit the temples. For a more in-depth experience, consider hiring a licensed local guide who can share historical and cultural insights.

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