Flights from Seoul (ICN) to Siem Reap (SAI)

About Siem Reap

Discover Siem Reap

Why visit Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor temple complex and a relaxed riverside city in its own right. You will find historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere that makes it easy to slow down and explore.

What to expect
Beyond the famous temples, Siem Reap offers leafy neighbourhoods, boutique hotels, and a compact centre filled with cafés and small galleries. The city comes alive in the evenings, with illuminated streets, lively dining areas, and easy access to night-time markets and riverside walks.

Plan your trip
Many travellers base themselves in Siem Reap to explore Angkor and nearby countryside, then unwind by the pool or in a spa. The city also works well as a starting point for wider journeys through Cambodia, thanks to its growing selection of tours, excursions, and onward connections.

Top sights in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat

Walk through grand galleries, towers, and intricate stone carvings at the most iconic temple in the Angkor complex.

Angkor Thom and Bayon

Explore the walled city of Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple, known for its many serene stone faces and atmospheric terraces.

Ta Prohm

See how towering trees and roots intertwine with centuries-old stone structures in this photogenic jungle temple.

Siem Reap Riverside

Stroll along the riverside paths, where you can enjoy shaded views, small bridges, and glimpses of everyday local life.

Angkor National Museum

Discover sculptures, artefacts, and clear exhibits that explain the art and history of the Angkor civilisation before visiting the temples.

Old Market area

Browse for textiles, souvenirs, and everyday goods in the bustling Old Market district set among narrow lanes and stalls.

Tonle Sap floating communities

Take a guided boat trip on the Tonle Sap lake to observe stilted houses and lakeside villages surrounded by wide open water.

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Enjoy an evening performance combining acrobatics, theatre, and live music in an intimate big-top setting.

Experience Siem Reap's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks and taxis are the most convenient way to move between the town and the Angkor temples, especially in the early morning and evening. Within the centre, you can easily explore on foot or by bicycle, with many hotels offering bike rentals for short rides.

Local life & culture
Siem Reap has a gentle pace, with café terraces, small galleries, and studios showcasing local creativity. In the late afternoon, you will see residents gathering along the river, shopping at fresh markets, and relaxing in shaded parks as the day cools.

Where to unwind
Many hotels feature quiet pools and gardens where you can rest between temple visits. Spa centres offer traditional massages and simple wellness treatments, while the riverside and nearby countryside paths are pleasant for a calm stroll at sunrise or just before sunset.

A taste of Siem Reap

Street food & local specialties
Around the Old Market and central streets, you will find stalls and casual eateries serving grilled meats, rice dishes, and noodle bowls, along with refreshing tropical fruits. Early evening is a good time to sample a variety of small plates as the streets begin to glow.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In the town centre, converted shophouses and compact laneways host cafés, bistros, and international restaurants. Menus often feature sharing plates and smaller portions, making it easy to try several dishes and mix local flavours with familiar favourites.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, consider venues overlooking rice fields, gardens, or quiet courtyards on the edge of town. Some restaurants offer outdoor terraces and refined tasting menus, allowing you to pair regional ingredients with a relaxed, atmospheric setting.

Retail therapy in Siem Reap

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Siem Reap has a growing number of compact malls and lifestyle centres that combine shops, cafés, and entertainment. These air-conditioned spaces are convenient for picking up essentials and gifts while taking a break from the afternoon heat.

Markets & local crafts
The Old Market area and nearby streets are known for textiles, simple jewellery, and handmade crafts from local workshops. Smaller boutiques scattered around the centre showcase design-focused homeware and clothing created by regional artisans.

Evening retail scene
After dark, parts of the town transform into lively shopping streets, with illuminated stalls and open-fronted shops. It is easy to combine an evening walk, dinner, and browsing, and local tuk-tuks and taxis can bring you back to your hotel at the end of the night.

Best time to visit Siem Reap

Cool, dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Siem Reap enjoys its coolest and driest months, with average temperatures around 24–28°C (75–82°F). Clear skies and lower humidity make temple visits and countryside excursions especially comfortable.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May is the warmest period, with average temperatures rising to 30–35°C (86–95°F). Longer daylight hours and bright conditions are ideal for photography, and planning early morning or late afternoon outings helps you enjoy the city at a gentler pace.

Green, rainy season (low season)
From June to October, short, often intense showers bring lush greenery and fuller moats and lakes, with averages of 26–30°C (79–86°F). The softer light, quieter sites, and vivid landscapes create rewarding conditions for travellers who appreciate a calmer atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions