Siem Reap is Cambodia’s most visited city, the gateway to the ancient Khmer temples of Angkor. This Siem Reap travel guide covers everything you need for your 2026 visit: attractions, accommodation, food, transport, and practical tips.
Getting to Siem Reap
Fly to Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) – direct connections from Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Ho Chi Minh City. From Phnom Penh: 45-min flight or 5-6 hour bus.
Most visitors need a visa. Apply for the Cambodia eVisa online ($36 USD, 3 business days) or get a visa on arrival at SAI airport ($30 USD cash). Check our eligible countries list.
Top Attractions in Siem Reap
Angkor Archaeological Park
The primary reason most visitors come. 6 km from city. Key temples: Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom/Bayon, Ta Prohm. 1-day pass $37 USD. See our Angkor Wat complete guide.
Pub Street and Night Market
Siem Reap’s main entertainment strip with restaurants, bars, and clubs. The Night Market (from 5 PM) offers crafts, silk, art, and street food.
Tonle Sap Lake
Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, 16 km south. Floating villages offer a fascinating glimpse into life on the water. Best September-November.
Artisans Angkor
Social enterprise training youth in traditional Khmer crafts. Free workshop tours. Excellent souvenirs supporting local artisans.
Where to Stay
- Budget ($8-25/night): Guesthouses and hostels near Pub Street
- Mid-range ($30-80/night): Boutique hotels with pools in French Quarter
- Luxury ($100-300+/night): Amansara, Park Hyatt, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
Where to Eat
- Try fish amok (fish curry in banana leaf), beef lok lak, bai sach chrouk (pork and rice)
- Best areas: Old Market, Pub Street, Kandal Village for upscale dining
- Budget: Cambodian BBQ near Night Market ($5-8 USD all-you-can-eat)
Getting Around Siem Reap
- Tuk-tuk: negotiate price upfront or use Grab app
- Bicycle: flat terrain makes cycling easy – hire from $2-5 USD/day
- Walking: Pub Street and Old Market area is walkable
Best Time to Visit
- November-February: Cool, dry, ideal. Peak season – book accommodation in advance
- March-May: Hot and dry, fewer crowds
- June-October: Wet season – green, lower prices, afternoon rains
Practical Information
- Currency: USD and Cambodian Riel both accepted
- ATMs: Available throughout the city
- Wi-Fi: Excellent in cafes, hotels, restaurants
- SIM card: Buy at airport from $2 USD with data
Ensure your Cambodia eVisa is ready before flying. Check processing times and apply at least a week before travel. Read Cambodia entry requirements 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Siem Reap?
3-5 days is ideal: 2-3 days for Angkor temples plus 1-2 days for the city, Tonle Sap, and Banteay Srei.
Is Siem Reap expensive?
Very affordable. Budget travelers: $25-40 USD/day including accommodation, food, transport, and Angkor entry.
Do I need a Cambodia visa to fly into Siem Reap?
Yes – eVisa ($36 USD online at evisa.gov.kh) or visa on arrival ($30 USD cash at SAI airport).
