Siem Reap is the gateway to the Angkor temple complex, where ancient stone cities rise from the jungle. You also find a relaxed riverside town with leafy streets and welcoming hospitality.
Discover Siem Reap
Discover Siem Reap
Why visit Siem Reap?
What to expect
Expect early mornings at temple sites, evenings by the river, and a compact centre easy to explore on foot or by tuk-tuk. The atmosphere is unhurried, with heritage shopfronts, galleries, and small cafes lining the streets.
Plan your trip
Many visitors spend several days in Siem Reap to explore Angkor and nearby countryside villages. The city is also a convenient starting point for wider journeys through Cambodia and the Mekong region.
Top sights in Siem Reap
Angkor Wat
Walk the galleries and courtyards of this vast 12th century temple, and watch the sun rise behind its distinctive lotus shaped towers.
Bayon and Angkor Thom
Explore the ancient walled city of Angkor Thom and the Bayon temple, famous for its serene stone faces and intricate bas reliefs.
Ta Prohm
See giant tree roots weave through weathered stone at Ta Prohm, where much of the jungle growth has been left in place for an evocative atmosphere.
Tonle Sap Lake
Take a boat trip on Tonle Sap to see floating villages, stilt houses, and birdlife on Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake.
Siem Reap Old Market area
Stroll through the Old Market and surrounding streets for souvenirs, textiles, and a lively evening scene in the heart of town.
Angkor National Museum
Gain context for your temple visits with galleries on Khmer art, sculpture, and the history of the Angkor civilisation.
Phare, The Cambodian Circus
Enjoy a night of acrobatics, theatre, and live music by a social enterprise troupe sharing contemporary Cambodian stories.
Experience Siem Reap’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Tuk-tuks are the most convenient way to move between hotels, the town centre, and the Angkor Archaeological Park. For a different perspective, you can cycle quiet roads around the temples, then walk the compact Old Market area for the final stretch.
Local life & culture
Daily life unfolds along the river, with locals gathering in parks, small pagodas, and community spaces. You will find art galleries, craft workshops, and performance venues that highlight Cambodia’s creative resurgence and heritage.
Where to unwind
Relax at riverside parks, hotel pools, or spa centres after an early start at the temples. Late afternoon is ideal for a gentle walk along tree lined streets as the heat eases and the city lights begin to glow.
A taste of Siem Reap
Street food & local specialties
Try Cambodian dishes such as fish amok, rice noodle soups, and grilled skewers at casual eateries and small stalls around the Old Market and Wat Bo districts.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In the town centre you will find relaxed cafes, bistros, and contemporary Khmer restaurants serving regional flavours as well as international cuisines, with smaller plates that make it easy to sample several dishes.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for restaurants in restored heritage villas, rooftop venues, or riverside terraces where you can dine with views over tree canopies or the water, especially pleasant at sunset.
Retail therapy in Siem Reap
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Siem Reap has a growing selection of small malls and lifestyle complexes where you can find fashion, lifestyle brands, and cosy cafes in air conditioned comfort.
Markets & local crafts
Browse the Old Market, Made in Cambodia Market, and the Wat Bo area for handwoven textiles, silk scarves, ceramics, and handmade accessories from local artisans and social enterprises.
Evening retail scene
After dark, central streets fill with illuminated stalls and boutiques that stay open late, making it easy to combine shopping with dinner, all within short tuk-tuk rides from most hotels.
Best time to visit Siem Reap
Cool dry season (peak season): From November to February, days are generally dry and comfortable, around 21–32°C (70–90°F), ideal for long temple visits and outdoor excursions. Hot season (shoulder season): From March to May, temperatures rise to about 25–35°C (77–95°F), with strong sun and hazier afternoons, so early morning and late afternoon sightseeing is recommended. Green or rainy season (low season): From June to October, expect regular showers and occasional heavy downpours, with temperatures around 24–32°C (75–90°F); in return, temples are quieter and the surrounding countryside turns a lush green.