Flights from Seattle (SEA) to Siem Reap (SAI)

About Siem Reap

Discover Siem Reap

Why visit Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor temple complex, where ancient structures rise from the jungle and sunrise light catches stone carvings. Beyond its heritage, the city blends relaxed riverside charm with boutique hotels, leafy streets, and a friendly small-town feel.

What to expect
You can expect compact neighbourhoods that are easy to explore on foot or by tuk-tuk, from the Old French Quarter to the riverside promenade. Cafes, galleries, and small spas sit alongside markets and contemporary bars, creating a gentle but lively atmosphere from early morning until late evening.

Plan your trip
Many travellers base themselves in Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and surrounding sites over several days. The city also works as a comfortable base to discover nearby floating villages, countryside landscapes, and other destinations across Cambodia and the wider Mekong region.

Top sights in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat

Watch sunrise over the towers of Angkor Wat, then wander through its extensive galleries lined with intricate carvings.

Angkor Thom and Bayon

Explore the walled city of Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple, known for its serene stone faces and maze-like passages.

Ta Prohm

Visit Ta Prohm, where giant tree roots intertwine with centuries-old stone walls to create striking jungle-framed views.

Siem Reap Old Market

Browse Siem Reap Old Market for souvenirs, textiles, and spices, and experience the city’s bustling daily life.

Made in Cambodia Market

Discover locally made crafts, jewellery, and artworks at the Made in Cambodia Market, supporting regional artisans.

Tonlé Sap floating villages

Take a guided boat trip on Tonlé Sap Lake to see floating villages and life along the water’s edge.

Angkor National Museum

Learn more about Khmer history and artistry at the Angkor National Museum before or after visiting the temples.

Pub Street and surrounding lanes

Stroll through Pub Street and nearby lanes in the evening for lively cafes, bars, and a relaxed night-time atmosphere.

Experience Siem Reap’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks are the most convenient way to move between your hotel, the Old Market, and the Angkor Archaeological Park. Many visitors arrange a driver for the day for temple touring, then walk around the compact town centre, where crossings of the river add a scenic touch.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Siem Reap unfolds along the riverbanks, in small parks, and around local markets where residents shop and chat. Art galleries, design shops, and low-rise cafes occupy restored shophouses, giving the centre a creative, laid-back character that you can experience at an unhurried pace.

Where to unwind
Between temple visits, you can relax with spa treatments, quiet hotel pools, or a gentle walk along the riverside paths. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to enjoy outdoor spaces, when light softens and the town takes on a cooler, calmer feel.

A taste of Siem Reap

Street food & local specialties
You will find local dishes in open-front eateries and simple stalls around the Old Market and central streets. From flavourful noodle soups to grilled snacks, it is easy to sample a variety of tastes while watching the flow of everyday life nearby.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Modern cafes, bistros, and hotel restaurants are clustered around the Old French Quarter and along the river. Menus often mix Cambodian flavours with regional and international dishes, with portions that encourage sharing so you can try several plates in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, consider restaurants set in traditional wooden houses, leafy courtyards, or stylish hotel settings. Some venues offer outdoor seating with tranquil garden views, allowing you to reflect on a day at the temples over a relaxed, unhurried dinner.

Retail therapy in Siem Reap

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Siem Reap’s retail scene is centred more on compact lifestyle complexes and standalone boutiques than large malls. You will find curated shops in mixed-use developments and hotel arcades, many combining retail with cafes and wellness spaces.

Markets & local crafts
For handmade items, explore the Old Market area, the Made in Cambodia Market, and Kandal Village. These neighbourhoods showcase textiles, ceramics, artwork, and design pieces created by local and regional artisans, often with opportunities to learn about their stories.

Evening retail scene
After dark, streets near Pub Street and the river light up with stalls and small shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. The relaxed evening atmosphere makes browsing enjoyable, and short tuk-tuk rides help you move easily between districts as you explore.

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Siem Reap enjoys cooler, drier weather, around 22–30°C (72–86°F). Clear skies and comfortable humidity make this a popular time for full-day temple visits and outdoor activities, so sites feel lively and well attended.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings hotter days, with temperatures often between 26–35°C (79–95°F). Early morning and late afternoon temple visits are especially rewarding, and you can use the hotter midday hours to rest at your hotel or enjoy indoor attractions.

Green rainy season (low season)
From June to October, short, frequent showers refresh the landscape and temperatures hover around 24–32°C (75–90°F). The countryside turns lush and vivid, clouds create dramatic skies over Angkor, and you can often experience a quieter atmosphere at major sites.

Frequently Asked Questions