Siem Reap is the vibrant gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, a sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Khmer architecture. Known for its blend of spiritual history, bustling night markets, and a lively culinary scene, it is best visited between November and February for cooler, dry weather.
Top Things to Do in Siem Reap
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Getting Around Siem Reap
From the Airport
Taxi. Official airport taxis are available at the arrivals hall of Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) and charge a fixed rate to the city center, typically taking about an hour. Shuttle Bus. There are dedicated shuttle buses that run from the airport to various drop-off points in Siem Reap city, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to private taxis.
Once You're There
Tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are the primary way to get around; you can hire a driver for the entire day or hail them via the Grab app for individual trips. Walking. The central area of Siem Reap is quite walkable, especially around the river and the Old Market, but you will need transport to reach the outer temple sites.
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Hotel picks for Siem Reap are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Siem Reap
Haven★ 4.9 (2,739)Chocolate Rd, Krong Siem Reap, CambodiaKnown for its excellent schnitzels and curries, this restaurant also operates as a training center for disadvantaged young adults.
Brother Bong Cafe★ 4.8 (1,170)Street 20, Krong Siem Reap, CambodiaThis is the go-to spot for high-quality, locally sourced Cambodian coffee and a relaxed breakfast vibe.
Elia Greek Kitchen★ 4.7 (3,405)31-34 Street 09 Mondul 1 Village Siem Reap, Krong Siem Reap 17252, CambodiaWhen you need a break from rice and noodles, this spot offers surprisingly authentic Mediterranean flavors right in the heart of the city.
Cuisine Wat Damnak★ 4.6 (717)City, Wat Damnak market, street, Village, Krong Siem Reap 93108, CambodiaThis restaurant is famous for its sophisticated, high-end interpretation of traditional Cambodian flavors using seasonal local ingredients.
Genevieve's Restaurant★ 4.6 (572)8VX4+7H2, Bamboo St, Krong Siem Reap, CambodiaLocals and visitors alike flock here for its reliably delicious Khmer classics and commitment to supporting local community projects.
Mie Cafe★ 4.6 (224)#0085, Phum Treng Khum Slorgram, Krong Siem Reap, CambodiaChef Pola serves refined Cambodian cuisine in a lush, garden-like setting that feels like a hidden oasis.
Chanrey Tree★ 4.5 (1,862)Mondul 1 Village, Svay Dangkum Commune, Pokambor Ave, Krong Siem Reap 17252, CambodiaDine here for an authentic Khmer dining experience in a beautiful wooden house overlooking the Siem Reap River.
Marum★ 4.5 (761)Por Trach Village, Sangkat Slor Kram Siem Reap City, Krong Siem Reap 17251, CambodiaThis social enterprise restaurant serves creative tapas-style Khmer dishes and provides vocational training to local youth.
The Sugar Palm★ 4.4 (689)Opposite Pannasastra University Street 27, Wat Bo Village, Sangkat Svay Rok, Siem Reap City, Krong Siem Reap, CambodiaThis is widely considered the best place in town to sample a truly authentic and perfectly balanced Fish Amok.
Khmer Kitchen Restaurant★ 4.2 (2,810)Street 2 Thnou the coner of street 9, Old market Siem reap, Krong Siem Reap 17255, CambodiaA staple for travelers, this unpretentious spot is perfect for trying a wide variety of traditional curries and stir-fries.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Siem Reap
The Grand Angkor Circuit
Morning. Start your journey at the crack of dawn to catch the ethereal sunrise over the lotus-bud towers of Angkor Wat. Spend at least three hours wandering through the vast galleries and bas-reliefs, ensuring you bring a sarong or scarf to cover your shoulders. Afterward, take a short tuk-tuk ride to the nearby Angkor Thom complex, where you will enter through the imposing South Gate. Wander the grounds to find the massive, smiling stone faces of Bayon Temple, which are best viewed before the midday crowds arrive. Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the humidity can be intense even in the early hours.
Afternoon. After a hearty lunch, head to the jungle-entwined ruins of Ta Prohm, famously featured in Tomb Raider. The massive banyan tree roots growing over the stone walls provide some of the most iconic photo opportunities in the entire park. Spend time exploring the quieter, overgrown corridors before heading to the elevated terraces of Baphuon to escape the heat. If you have energy remaining, stop by the Terrace of the Elephants to admire the intricate carvings that once hosted royal audiences. Always keep your temple pass handy, as security checks occur frequently between sites.
Evening. Wind down your evening by heading to the summit of Phnom Bakheng for a panoramic view of the Angkor complex as the sun dips below the horizon. Once you descend, return to the city center to immerse yourself in the chaotic energy of Pub Street. Wander through the neon-lit alleyways, perhaps stopping for a drink at a local bar, before settling in for a traditional Khmer dinner. End your night by browsing the nearby Night Market for handmade silks, local spices, and wood carvings to bring home as souvenirs.
Culture & Local Life
Morning. Begin your day by exploring the extensive collection at the Angkor National Museum, which provides essential historical context for the temples you visited yesterday. Spend about two hours browsing the interactive exhibits, particularly the Gallery of a Thousand Buddhas, which is beautifully curated. From there, take a short walk to the tranquil grounds of Wat Preah Prom Rath, a vibrant, active monastery in the heart of town. It is a wonderful place to observe local monks going about their morning duties and to admire the ornate, colorful architecture. Dress modestly here as it is a place of active worship.
Afternoon. Head toward the Siem Reap River for a stroll along the tree-lined banks, which offer a refreshing respite from the city heat. Make your way to the Old Market, or Phsar Chas, to see the locals buying fresh produce, fish, and household goods. It is the perfect place to grab a cheap, authentic street food snack or to pick up some local Kampot pepper. Afterward, visit a local workshop like Artisans Angkor to see traditional Khmer crafts, such as silk weaving and stone carving, being created by skilled artisans. This is a great way to support the local economy while learning about ancient techniques.
Evening. For your final evening, head to the Phare, the Cambodian Circus, for a breathtaking performance that combines theater, music, and acrobatics to tell Cambodian folk stories. It is an incredibly high-energy show that supports a local arts school and is consistently ranked as a top experience in Siem Reap. Following the performance, enjoy a refined dinner at a restaurant tucked away in a quiet garden setting to reflect on your trip. Conclude your evening with a relaxing foot massage at one of the many parlors along the riverfront to soothe your tired legs.
Floating Villages & Rural Escapes
Morning. Escape the city for a half-day excursion to Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. Book a boat tour to visit the floating village of Kompong Phluk, where you can see houses built on massive stilts to accommodate the lake's fluctuating water levels. It is a fascinating look at a way of life that has remained unchanged for generations, centered entirely around the rhythms of the water. Be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is very little shade while you are out on the open water of the lake.
Afternoon. On your way back to town, stop at the Banteay Srei temple, located about 25 kilometers from the main Angkor complex. This temple is famous for its intricate pink sandstone carvings, which are widely considered the finest and most detailed in all of Cambodia. Because it is slightly further out, it tends to be less crowded than the main Angkor sites, allowing for a more serene exploration. Spend your afternoon wandering the small but incredibly beautiful grounds, admiring the distinct architectural style that sets it apart from the larger temples.
Evening. Return to Siem Reap in the late afternoon and head to the area around Wat Bo for a more local, relaxed vibe away from the tourist center. Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a boutique hotel bar overlooking the river, taking in the transition from day to night. For your final dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in traditional Khmer soups or grilled meats to savor the bold flavors of the region one last time. Spend your final hour walking through the quiet, leafy streets of the Wat Bo neighborhood to appreciate the peaceful side of this bustling city.