Siem Reap

Vibrant Cambodian city and gateway to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, known for its hospitality and lively culture.

CambodiaProvincia De Siem Reap
3 days

About Siem Reap

About Siem Reap - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Siem Reap, the vibrant gateway to the majestic ruins of Angkor, is a city that has blossomed from a small village to a bustling tourist centre. Combining French colonial charm with a lively cultural and food scene, it serves as a base from which to explore the ancient Khmer Empire, one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
Country
Cambodia
Region
Provincia De Siem Reap
Highlights
14+ Attractions

Highlights

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat

Angkor Thom

Angkor Wat

Angkor National Museum

Angkor Wat

Artisans Angkor

Population

Approximately 245,000 (city), 1 million (province).

Languages

Jemer (Khmer)

El inglés es ampliamente hablado en hoteles, restaurantes y por los conductores de tuk-tuk. El dólar estadounidense es la moneda de facto para los turistas, aunque el Riel camboyano se usa para el cambio pequeño.

History of Siem Reap

Explore the fascinating past of Siem Reap and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

The history of Siem Reap is intrinsically linked to the Khmer Empire (9th-15th centuries). The imperial capital, Angkor, was located nearby. Siem Reap, meaning 'Defeat of Siam', commemorates a 16th century victory over Thailand and long served as a transit village to the great temples.

Development Period

After the fall of Angkor in the 15th century, the region fell into oblivion. It was the 'rediscovery' of the temples by French explorers in the 19th century that put Siem Reap back on the world map. During the French protectorate, the city began to develop as a tourist destination, laying the foundations for its future.

Modern Period

After surviving the tragic Khmer Rouge era, Siem Reap has experienced a remarkable renaissance. Angkor's UNESCO World Heritage status fueled a tourism boom, transforming the city into Cambodia's most visited destination, filled with hotels, restaurants and vibrant energy.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Siem Reap through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Excellent
85100

Generally a very safe city for tourists. The main problem is petty theft and small scams.

Click to view analysis
About:

Generally a very safe city for tourists. The main problem is petty theft and small scams.

Advantages:
  • Low rate of violent crimes.
  • It is safe to walk around the city center, even at night.
  • Local people are usually very helpful in case of problems.
Challenges:
  • You have to watch out for pickpockets in markets and busy areas.
  • It is recommended to negotiate tuk-tuk prices before boarding or using an app.

Walkability

Excellent
80100

The city center is very compact and pleasant to walk, but transportation is essential to visit the temples.

Click to view analysis
About:

The city center is very compact and pleasant to walk, but transportation is essential to visit the temples.

Advantages:
  • The Old Market, Pub Street and Kandal Village area is easily explored on foot.
  • Walking along the river bank is very pleasant.
  • It is safe to walk during the day and night in central areas.
Challenges:
  • The temples are several kilometers from the city and require transportation.
  • Sidewalks may be uneven or nonexistent on some streets.

Public Transport

Good
70100

There is no formal public transport system, but tuk-tuks are a way of life, being abundant, cheap and efficient.

Click to view analysis
About:

There is no formal public transport system, but tuk-tuks are a way of life, being abundant, cheap and efficient.

Advantages:
  • Tuk-tuks (remorks) are everywhere and very affordable.
  • Apps like Grab and PassApp offer fixed and transparent prices.
  • Renting a bicycle is an excellent option to explore the city.
Challenges:
  • There are no city buses or metro system.
  • Renting motorbikes to foreigners is technically prohibited in Siem Reap.

Affordability

Excellent
92100

Very affordable for independent travelers: food, lodging, and local transport go a long way.

Click to view analysis
About:

Very affordable for independent travelers: food, lodging, and local transport go a long way.

Advantages:
  • Street food and local restaurants at very low prices.
  • Tuk-tuk transportation is cheap and easy to negotiate.
  • Wide variety of accommodation for all budgets.
Challenges:
  • The Angkor Temples Entry Pass is a significant investment ($37 for 1 day, $62 for 3 days).

Nightlife

Excellent
80100

Lively and focused, with options for everyone, from relaxed cocktails to all-night parties.

Click to view analysis
About:

Lively and focused, with options for everyone, from relaxed cocktails to all-night parties.

Advantages:
  • The famous Pub Street is bustling with bars, clubs and restaurants.
  • Very cheap prices for drinks.
  • Fun and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Challenges:
  • Nightlife is very concentrated in one area (Pub Street).
  • It can be noisy and overwhelming for those seeking quiet.

Art & Culture

Excellent
95100

An epicenter of ancient Khmer culture, with a vibrant performing arts and traditional crafts scene.

Click to view analysis
About:

An epicenter of ancient Khmer culture, with a vibrant performing arts and traditional crafts scene.

Advantages:
  • Unrivaled access to the art and culture of the Khmer Empire.
  • Apsara dance performances, the Cambodian classical dance.
  • Craft and silk workshops that preserve local traditions.
Challenges:
  • Contemporary culture is less developed than in the big capitals.

Food Scene

Excellent
90100

A delicious and affordable food scene, ranging from street food to Khmer fine dining.

Click to view analysis
About:

A delicious and affordable food scene, ranging from street food to Khmer fine dining.

Advantages:
  • Unique Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak.
  • Night markets and street stalls with delicious and cheap food.
  • Many restaurants are social businesses that support the local community.
Challenges:
  • Less variety of high-end international cuisine compared to large metropolises.

Shopping

Excellent
85100

Excellent for shopping for crafts, souvenirs and local products in its vibrant markets and fair trade boutiques.

Click to view analysis
About:

Excellent for shopping for crafts, souvenirs and local products in its vibrant markets and fair trade boutiques.

Advantages:
  • Night markets full of life with all kinds of souvenirs.
  • Many fair trade shops supporting local artisans (Artisans d'Angkor).
  • Possibility of purchasing works of art and high quality silks.
Challenges:
  • Many market stalls sell similar products.
  • Haggling is expected and necessary in the markets.

Weather

Good
75100

Tropical climate with a very pleasant dry season, but it can be extremely hot and humid the rest of the year.

Click to view analysis
About:

Tropical climate with a very pleasant dry season, but it can be extremely hot and humid the rest of the year.

Advantages:
  • The season from November to February offers almost perfect weather.
  • Even in the rainy season, it usually rains in the afternoon, leaving the mornings free.
  • The landscape is greener and more lush during the rainy season.
Challenges:
  • The heat and humidity from April to May can be overwhelming.
  • Dust is a problem during the dry season.

Tourist Friendly

Excellent
95100

A completely tourism-oriented city, very easy to navigate for international visitors.

Click to view analysis
About:

A completely tourism-oriented city, very easy to navigate for international visitors.

Advantages:
  • The tourist infrastructure (hotels, tours) is highly developed.
  • English is very common in the tourism sector.
  • The friendliness of the locals makes tourists feel very welcome.
Challenges:
  • It can feel like a 'tourist bubble', a bit isolated from the rest of the country.

Family Friendly

Excellent
85100

Excellent family destination, with temples that seem straight out of an adventure movie and a very welcoming culture for children.

Click to view analysis
About:

Excellent family destination, with temples that seem straight out of an adventure movie and a very welcoming culture for children.

Advantages:
  • Exploring the temples is a great adventure for children.
  • Many hotels have swimming pools, ideal for the heat.
  • Cambodians are extremely kind to children.
Challenges:
  • The heat can be exhausting for the little ones.
  • Some temples have steep stairs and are not stroller accessible.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Good
75100

Generally tolerant and welcoming, especially within the tourist bubble. The local culture remains conservative.

Click to view analysis
About:

Generally tolerant and welcoming, especially within the tourist bubble. The local culture remains conservative.

Advantages:
  • Relaxed and non-judgmental atmosphere in bars and tourist hotels.
  • Several businesses are owned by or friendly to the LGBTQ+ community.
Challenges:
  • Public displays of affection are not common in Cambodian culture in general.
  • The LGTBQ+ scene is small and discreet.

Local Friendly

Excellent
95100

Cambodians are famous for their kindness, warm smiles and genuine hospitality towards visitors.

Click to view analysis
About:

Cambodians are famous for their kindness, warm smiles and genuine hospitality towards visitors.

Advantages:
  • Incredibly friendly, polite and helpful people.
  • Low levels of aggressive scams compared to other tourist destinations.
  • Tuk-tuk drivers and local guides are easy to connect with.
Challenges:
  • The language barrier may exist outside of the main tourist areas.

Natural Beauty

Excellent
80100

A unique beauty where ancient stone ruins merge with lush jungle and vast bodies of water.

Click to view analysis
About:

A unique beauty where ancient stone ruins merge with lush jungle and vast bodies of water.

Advantages:
  • The image of temples like Ta Prohm devoured by the jungle is iconic.
  • The immense Tonlé Sap lake with its floating villages.
  • Spectacular sunsets over the rice fields and temples.
Challenges:
  • The surrounding landscape is mostly flat.

Architecture

Excellent
100100

Home to the Angkor complex, one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world, combining grandeur and intricate details.

Click to view analysis
About:

Home to the Angkor complex, one of the architectural wonders of the ancient world, combining grandeur and intricate details.

Advantages:
  • Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world.
  • The mysterious Bayon Temple with its stone faces.
  • Charming French colonial architecture in the city center.
Challenges:
  • Outside of the temples and the French Quarter, the architecture can be functional and less inspiring.

Historical Significance

Excellent
100100

As the capital of the all-powerful Khmer Empire, its historical importance is world-class.

Click to view analysis
About:

As the capital of the all-powerful Khmer Empire, its historical importance is world-class.

Advantages:
  • It was the center of one of the largest and most advanced empires in Southeast Asia.
  • Angkor Wat is a testament to religious devotion and royal power.
  • The region tells the story of a millennium of Khmer culture, art and engineering.

Green Spaces

Good
70100

The city itself has few parks, but is surrounded by a rural landscape of rice paddies and the vast jungle of Angkor Park.

Click to view analysis
About:

The city itself has few parks, but is surrounded by a rural landscape of rice paddies and the vast jungle of Angkor Park.

Advantages:
  • The grounds of the Angkor complex are an immense park.
  • Picturesque rural landscapes within walking distance of the city.
  • The Angkor Botanical Garden.
Challenges:
  • Few formal public parks in the city center.
  • The overall feeling is of a bustling city rather than a green oasis.

Cleanliness

Good
70100

Tourist areas and hotels are generally clean, but side streets and markets can be messy.

Click to view analysis
About:

Tourist areas and hotels are generally clean, but side streets and markets can be messy.

Advantages:
  • Mid-high range hotels and restaurants maintain high standards of cleanliness.
  • Strong sense of cleanliness within the main temple precincts.
Challenges:
  • The streets can be dusty during the dry season.
  • Waste management is a challenge in more rural areas.

Startup Scene

Good
60100

An emerging scene focused primarily on social enterprises and NGOs related to tourism and community development.

Click to view analysis
About:

An emerging scene focused primarily on social enterprises and NGOs related to tourism and community development.

Advantages:
  • Strong focus on social entrepreneurship and sustainable tourism.
  • Low cost to start a small business.
Challenges:
  • It is not a technology or startup center in the traditional sense.
  • The investment ecosystem is very limited.

Digital Nomad Friendly

Excellent
85100

An increasingly popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, good internet connection and growing community.

Click to view analysis
About:

An increasingly popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, good internet connection and growing community.

Advantages:
  • Very low cost of living.
  • Good Wi-Fi availability in cafes and co-working spaces.
  • Friendly and growing expat community.
Challenges:
  • Infrastructure may experience occasional power outages.
  • Fewer networking opportunities than in large hubs like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh.

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

92/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Siem Reap y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max32°
Min22°

February

Max33°
Min23°

March

Max34°
Min24°

April

Max35°
Min25°

May

Max34°
Min25°

June

Max33°
Min24°

July

Max32°
Min24°

August

Max32°
Min24°

September

Max31°
Min24°

October

Max31°
Min24°

November

Max31°
Min23°

December

Max31°
Min22°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

Tropical climate with a very pleasant dry season, but it can be extremely hot and humid the rest of the year.

Weather Tips

The season from November to February offers almost perfect weather.

Even in the rainy season, it usually rains in the afternoon, leaving the mornings free.

The landscape is greener and more lush during the rainy season.

The heat and humidity from April to May can be overwhelming.

Dust is a problem during the dry season.

The dry and cool season (November to February) is the most popular. The rainy season (May to October) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Overview

Spring

Very hot months (March-May) that precede the rainy season. April welcomes the Khmer New Year.

More Information

Summer

Rainy season (June-August), characterized by afternoon showers, green landscapes and fewer crowds.

More Information

Autumn

The rainy season continues (September-October), with the vegetation in its maximum splendor. November marks the beginning of the dry season.

More Information

Winter

Best time to visit (December-February). Dry, sunny climate with cooler and more pleasant temperatures.

More Information

Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

Extremely affordable. The biggest single expense is the entrance fee to Angkor. Food, accommodation and local transportation are very affordable.

Budget Travel

25-40USD

per day

Mid-Range Travel

50-100USD

per day

Luxury Travel

150+ USD

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Crafts and Fair Trade

3 areas

Artisans Angkor

Clic para ver detalles

Made in Cambodia Market

Clic para ver detalles

Kandal Village

Clic para ver detalles

Night Markets

2 areas

Angkor Night Market

Clic para ver detalles

Noon Night Market

Clic para ver detalles

Local markets

2 areas

Old Market (Psar Chas)

Clic para ver detalles

Phsar Leu

Clic para ver detalles

Art and Galleries

2 areas

Theam's House

Clic para ver detalles

Kandal Village

Clic para ver detalles

Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

Angkor Wat
UNESCO

Angkor Wat

The largest Hindu temple in the world and the heart of the Khmer Empire. An architectural masterpiece famous for its sunrises.

Architecture
Angkor Wat

Angkor Thom

The last great capital of the empire, a walled city that is home to iconic temples such as the Bayon and the Terrace of the Elephants.

Architecture
Angkor Wat

Angkor National Museum

A modern museum that offers an excellent introduction to the history, art and culture of the Khmer Empire through themed galleries.

Museum
Angkor Wat

Artisans Angkor

A social enterprise that revives ancient Khmer arts and crafts. You can visit the workshops to see artisans working on silk, stone and wood.

Shopping

Bayon Temple

Famous for its more than 200 enigmatic and serene giant stone faces that watch you from its towers.

Architecture

Ta Prohm

The 'Tomb Raider Temple', where giant silk-cotton tree roots intertwine with ancient stone ruins.

Architecture
UNESCO

Banteay Srei

Known as the 'Citadel of Women', this small pink sandstone temple stands out for its incredibly detailed and well-preserved carvings.

Architecture

Pub Street

The neon epicenter of Siem Reap nightlife, a pedestrian street full of bars, restaurants and clubs.

Landmark

Old Market (Psar Chas)

A bustling local market where tourists can buy souvenirs and locals do their daily fresh food shopping.

Market

Tonle Sap Lake

The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, home to fascinating floating villages and a rich biosphere.

Landmark

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

An energetic and emotional circus, theater and music show that tells Cambodian stories. Support young local artists.

Show

Cambodia Landmine Museum

A moving museum founded by a former child soldier that educates about the history of landmines in Cambodia and supports affected children.

Museum

Kandal Village

A fashionable and charming street with designer boutiques, art galleries, cafes and spas.

Landmark

Wat Preah Prom Rath

A beautiful and colorful modern Buddhist monastery in the heart of the city, an oasis of peace near Pub Street.

Architecture

Discover every corner of Siem Reap!

Sponsored links by GetYourGuide for your convenience

Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near Siem Reap perfect for day getaways

Approx. 1.5 - 2 hours by car.

Phnom Kulen Mountain

Nature, spirituality, hiking.

Considered the most sacred mountain in Cambodia. It is home to the River of a Thousand Lingas, a giant reclining Buddha and waterfalls where you can bathe.

Approx. 1.5 hours by car.

Beng Mealea

Adventure, exploration, photography.

A huge temple devoured by the jungle and largely unrestored. It offers a more adventurous and less crowded experience, 'Indiana Jones' style.

Approx. 2.5 hours by car.

Koh Ker

History, architecture, off the beaten path.

A remote former capital of the Khmer Empire, the site of which is dominated by Prasat Thom, an impressive seven-tiered pyramid rising above the jungle.

Approx. 45-60 minutes by tuk-tuk or car.

Floating Villages (Kampong Phluk / Kampong Khleang)

Culture, local lifestyle, photography.

Explore life above water at Tonlé Sap Lake. Kampong Phluk is more touristy, while Kampong Khleang is larger and more authentic.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

Old French Quarter

Elegant and charming, with colonial architecture, boutiques and luxury restaurants.

Pub Street Area

The bustling and festive heart of the city, full of bars and tourists.

Wat Bo

Quieter and more residential, with great boutique hotels and local restaurants.

Kandal Village

A small modern and bohemian enclave, with design shops and specialty cafes.

Taphul Village

A central and convenient area with a great mix of hotels, spas and restaurants.

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Chaul Chnam Thmey (Khmer New Year)

Mid April

The biggest festival in Cambodia. It is celebrated for three days with temple rituals, family gatherings and wild water battles in the streets. Siem Reap organizes the great event 'Angkor Sankranta'.

Pchum Ben (Ancestors Day)

September or October (lunar calendar)

A 15-day religious festival in which Cambodians honor their ancestors by visiting pagodas and making food offerings to monks. It is a time of great spiritual fervor.

Bon Om Touk (Water Festival)

November (full moon)

Celebrates the reversal of the flow of the Tonlé Sap River. Exciting and colorful long boat races, concerts and fireworks are organized in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

April 14-16.

Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey)

The most important holiday, celebrated with water battles, visits to pagodas and the massive Angkor Sankranta event in Siem Reap.

15 days in September/October

Pchum Ben (Ancestors Day)

An important religious festival where families honor their ancestors with offerings at temples.

November, during the full moon

Water Festival (Bon Om Touk)

Celebrate the reversal of the flow of the Tonlé Sap River with spectacular boat races, concerts and fireworks.

November 9

Cambodia Independence Day

It commemorates Cambodia's independence from France in 1953, with celebrations and parades, especially in Phnom Penh.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. Negotiate with the Tuk-Tuk

    Always agree on the price before starting a tuk-tuk trip. To avoid negotiations, use apps like Grab or PassApp, which offer fixed rates.

  2. Baby Milk Scam

    A woman with a baby may ask you to buy her milk powder at an inflated price from a specific store. It is a known scam; offer food instead or politely decline.

  3. Be careful with your belongings

    As in any tourist location, keep an eye on your valuables in busy areas such as Pub Street and markets to avoid pickpockets.

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 3 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around 50-100USD per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is Old French Quarter. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
The best way to explore Angkor is by hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the whole day. They cost between 15-20 USD and will wait for you at each temple.
Family-friendliness rated 85/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 85/100. Always agree on the price before starting a tuk-tuk trip. To avoid negotiations, use apps like Grab or PassApp, which offer fixed rates.

Ready to visit Siem Reap?

Plan your perfect trip with our personalized recommendations and local insights.

Plan my trip