Siem Reap Travel Guide
Welcome to Siem Reap, the bustling gateway to the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex and one of Cambodia’s most visited destinations. Located in the northwest of the country, Siem Reap offers the perfect blend of ancient wonders and modern charm.
Known worldwide as the base for exploring the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap also boasts a vibrant Old Market, lively Pub Street, beautiful Siem Reap River, and rich Khmer culture. Whether you come for the iconic sunrise at Angkor Wat, the mystical Ta Prohm temple, or to enjoy the relaxed riverside atmosphere, this charming town delivers unforgettable experiences.
Best Cambodia Itineraries
Siem Reap Itineraries
Choose the perfect itinerary based on how much time you have
1 Day in Siem Reap
Quick VisitBest for: Short stops and temple highlights.
- Angkor Wat sunrise & main temple exploration
- Angkor Thom (Bayon Temple with smiling faces)
- Ta Prohm (the jungle temple)
- Pub Street & Old Market evening stroll
- Khmer dinner with Apsara dance show
Tip: Buy a 1-day Angkor Pass and start very early for sunrise at Angkor Wat to beat the crowds.
3 Days in Siem Reap
RecommendedBest for: First-time visitors who want the best of Angkor.
- Full Angkor Wat complex (Small Circuit + Big Circuit)
- Banteay Srei (the pink temple) & Pre Rup sunset
- Siem Reap Old Market, Pub Street & Night Market
- Tonlé Sap Lake floating village boat trip
- Local Khmer cuisine & traditional Apsara dance
Tip: Stay in the Old French Quarter or near Pub Street for the best atmosphere and walkability.
7 Days in Siem Reap
Deep DiveBest for: Temple enthusiasts and slow travelers.
- Thorough exploration of all major Angkor temples
- Lesser-known temples (Beng Mealea, Koh Ker day trip)
- Tonlé Sap & floating villages in-depth experience
- Cambodian cooking class & countryside bike tours
- Phnom Kulen National Park or Kbal Spean (river of a thousand lingas)
Tip: Use Siem Reap as your comfortable base to explore the entire Angkor region and surrounding countryside at a relaxed pace.
Transport
How to Get to & Around Siem Reap
Practical guide to reaching and exploring Cambodia’s temple gateway city
By Plane
Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI)
Direct flights from:
• Phnom Penh, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, Seoul & more
• Airport to city: 45–60 min ($10–15 taxi)
By Bus / Minivan
Most popular overland option.
• Phnom Penh: $10–15 (5–6 hrs)
• Bangkok: $20–35 (8–10 hrs)
• Battambang / Kampong Cham: Regular services
Operators: Giant Ibis, Mekong Express, Virak Buntham
By Boat
Scenic route from Phnom Penh or Battambang.
• Phnom Penh: Daily fast boat (5–6 hrs)
• Battambang: Seasonal boat via Tonlé Sap Lake
Tip: Great views but weather dependent
Getting Around Siem Reap
• Old Market & Pub Street: Walkable
• Tuk-tuk to Angkor: $15–25/day
• Grab / Motorbike taxi: $1–4 per ride
• E-bike / Bicycle rental: $8–12 per day
Top Things To See & Experiences In Siem Reap
Top Attractions in Siem Reap
4 must-visit places that define Cambodia’s temple gateway city
Angkor Wat
The largest religious monument in the world and Cambodia’s national symbol.
Must-See:
• Iconic lotus towers at sunrise
• 1.2 km of intricate bas-reliefs
• Moat reflections & central sanctuary
Bayon Temple
Famous for its 216 giant smiling stone faces in the heart of Angkor Thom.
Must-See:
• Serene stone faces
• Detailed bas-reliefs
• Upper terrace views
Ta Prohm
The atmospheric “Tomb Raider” temple swallowed by giant jungle trees.
Must-See:
• Massive tree roots over ruins
• Mystical jungle atmosphere
• Iconic photo spots
Pub Street & Old Market
Siem Reap’s vibrant nightlife and shopping heart.
Must-See:
• Bustling night market
• Street food & bars
• Lively evening atmosphere
