Siem Reap
As the gateway to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap blends history, culture, and modern hospitality. Visitors can witness the sunrise over Angkor’s majestic temples, explore the intricate carvings of Bayon, or experience the lively energy of Pub Street. Traditional Apsara dance performances and bustling night markets offer a taste of Cambodia’s rich heritage. Whether marveling at centuries-old ruins or unwinding in a riverside café, Siem Reap is a captivating blend of past and present.
Airport
Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) – Located about 40 km from the city, this newly opened airport is Cambodia’s largest, serving as the main access point for Angkor Wat.
Train Station
No major train station – Siem Reap does not have a railway system; travel is primarily by bus, tuk-tuk, or domestic flights.
Weather
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season from November to March. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the temples of Angkor, taking in the local culture, and enjoying outdoor activities. The rainy season (May to October) can make some areas more difficult to explore.
Known For
Famous for its ancient temples, especially Angkor Wat, and its rich cultural heritage.
Neighbourhoods
Siem Reap’s neighborhoods are an eclectic mix of cultural heritage and modern developments. Old Market (Psar Chaa) is the heart of the city, known for its lively market stalls, local crafts, and delicious street food. Pub Street is a vibrant area filled with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs catering to tourists. Wat Bo offers a quieter, more local experience with traditional Khmer architecture, temples, and a laid-back vibe. Angkor is the area surrounding the Angkor Wat temple complex, drawing visitors from around the world to explore the ancient ruins and their rich history.
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Old Market (Psar Chaa) – The bustling heart of Siem Reap, filled with local markets, street food stalls, and artisan shops. It’s perfect for visitors wanting to experience the authentic charm of Siem Reap’s local culture.
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Pub Street – Known for its vibrant nightlife, bars, and restaurants, Pub Street is the ideal spot for those seeking fun, food, and entertainment in Siem Reap.
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Wat Bo – A more peaceful neighborhood with traditional Khmer architecture, Wat Bo offers a calm escape with its serene temples and historical charm.
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Angkor – The area surrounding the Angkor Wat temple complex, home to ancient ruins, temples, and archaeological sites. Angkor is perfect for history lovers wanting to explore the grand temples of Cambodia.
Hotel Guide
Siem Reap offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. Budget travelers can find affordable hostels and guesthouses in the city center, providing basic yet comfortable amenities. Mid-range hotels are available near the Old Market and Pub Street, offering modern rooms and easy access to Siem Reap’s cultural sites. For luxury, Siem Reap has upscale resorts like the Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor, offering elegant accommodations, exceptional service, and a tranquil setting close to the Angkor temple complex.
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Mad Monkey Siem Reap – ★★★
A social hostel with budget dorms and private rooms, featuring a rooftop bar and a fun backpacker atmosphere.
Blossoming Romduol Boutique – ★★★
A budget-friendly hotel with traditional Khmer décor, offering a pool and free tuk-tuk service to the temples.
Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap – ★★★
A modern hostel with dorms and private rooms, located close to Pub Street and offering excellent social spaces.
Budget Hotel Options
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Angkor Village Resort & Spa – ★★★★
A luxury resort offering traditional Khmer-style villas, a relaxing spa, and easy access to Angkor Wat and other temples.
Park Hyatt Siem Reap – ★★★★
A luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, a beautiful courtyard pool, and a fantastic restaurant, located just a short distance from Angkor Wat.
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort – ★★★★
A grand resort with spacious rooms, a golf course, a spa, and exceptional service, located near the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
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Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor – ★★★★★
An iconic, colonial-style hotel offering luxurious rooms, lush gardens, and a prime location near Angkor Wat, providing an elegant and tranquil retreat.
Park Hyatt Siem Reap – ★★★★★
A luxurious, modern hotel with sophisticated rooms, exceptional service, and a beautiful courtyard pool, located just minutes from Angkor Wat.
Angkor Village Resort & Spa – ★★★★★
A serene luxury resort with traditional Khmer-style villas, a full-service spa, and easy access to the Angkor temples, offering a relaxing retreat in Siem Reap.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
Siem Reap is known for its proximity to the Angkor temples, offering a rich cultural experience. Budget activities include exploring the Angkor Wat temple complex, visiting the Bayon Temple, or enjoying the bustling Pub Street. Mid-range activities might include taking a boat ride on Tonle Sap Lake or visiting the Angkor National Museum. For luxury, indulge in a private sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, enjoy a traditional Khmer cooking class, or stay at the luxurious Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor for a historic and indulgent experience.
Angkor Wat (Exterior)
While entering the temple complex requires a pass, you can admire the grandeur of Angkor Wat from the outside and take in its impressive size and beauty.
Pub Street
Wander through Siem Reap’s lively Pub Street, enjoying the bustling atmosphere, local street food, and the vibrant nightlife without spending much.
Angkor Night Market
Explore the famous night market with its colorful stalls offering crafts, textiles, and souvenirs, perfect for a window-shopping experience.
Wat Preah Prom Rath
Visit this peaceful temple in the Old Market area, an important local site with beautiful architecture and a tranquil atmosphere.
Budget Friendly Activities
Angkor National Museum
Learn about the rich history of the Angkor civilization through interactive exhibits and displays of artifacts from the ancient temples.
Tonle Sap Lake
Take a boat tour on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, where you can visit floating villages and observe local life, all at a reasonable cost.
Angkor Wat Sunrise Tour
Join a sunrise tour of the famous Angkor Wat temple, where you can see the temple bathed in the early morning light for a small fee.
Pub Street
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Pub Street, where you can enjoy cheap eats, drinks, and live entertainment in a lively, laid-back atmosphere.
Mid-Range Activities
Private Sunrise Angkor Wat Tour
Experience the magic of sunrise at Angkor Wat with a private guide, exploring this ancient wonder with personalized commentary. Prices from AUD $150.
Helicopter Tour of Angkor Temples
Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Angkor temple complex for an unforgettable view of the ancient ruins. Prices from AUD $400.
Luxury Spa Day at a Five-Star Resort
Treat yourself to a day of pampering at one of Siem Reap’s luxury resorts, including a signature spa treatment and relaxation time. Prices from AUD $200.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
Visa on arrival or eVisa available for stays up to 30 days.
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
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Language
Khmer
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Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
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Population
230,000 (city proper)
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Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -3 hours
Have a question?
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