What was once a small, anonymous town in the middle of Cambodia now sees more than a million annual visitors. Why? Because of the irresistible sight of the ruins of Angkor Archaeological Park, the site of the ancient Khmer Empire, which ruled much of the region from the ninth to 15th centuries. The park is less than 6 kilometres away from Siem Reap and in the last twenty years, it's become a firm favourite on the Asian traveller’s circuit. The romantic and evocative ruins of the ancient city are scattered throughout the park, with Angkor Wat Temple and Bayon Temple, two of the highlights. Another must-see is Ta Prohm Temple, made even more famous thanks to the Lara Croft film starring Angelina Jolie, where trees and plants have enveloped the temple's ruins. You can reach the park from Siem Reap by tour bus, bicycle or tuk-tuk, and in the park itself, you can even hire an elephant to get around.Siem Reap is more than a mere transit point however over the past 10 years, it has evolved into a destination in itself thanks to its chic places to stay, eat and shop. The art scene is thriving with local artists gaining an increasing amount of international attention. After decades of war and horror under Pol Pot, Siem Reap has resurrected itself, and is once again a centre for Khmer culture, as it was a thousand years ago.When it comes to evening entertainment, many restaurants serve a mean Khmer curry and have outdoor seating. The Red Lantern District is the place to head for a bit of a party there is everything from rowdy pubs serving cheap beer, to stylish and low-key bars offering designer cocktails. The town of Siem Reap is increasingly seen as a shopping destination too with silk products making a wonderful souvenir of your visit.Siem Reap has an international airport with daily flights to and from many places in Asia. Visitors can also get buses from Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos.
Siem Reap Travel Guide
Where to stay in Siem Reap
Downtown Siem Reap
The fantastic nightlife and popular shops are just a few highlights of Downtown Siem Reap. Make a stop by Pub Street or Old Market Area while you're exploring the area.
Wat Bo Area
Travellers come to Wat Bo Area for its lively bars, and you can see top attractions like Apsara Theatre and Wat Bo while you're in town.
Taphul Village Area
Taphul Village Area is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to National Road 6 and Lucky Mall while you're in town.
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Popular places to visit
Angkor Wat
Experience the awesome sight of the largest religious monument on earth, part of the ancient ruins of Cambodia's Khmer Empire.
Pub Street
During your trip to Siem Reap, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Pub Street. Discover the area's breathtaking sunrises and temples.
Angkor Night Market
During your trip to Siem Reap, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Angkor Night Market. Discover the area's breathtaking sunrises and temples.
Old Market Area
During your visit to Siem Reap, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Old Market Area. Savour the area's bars and restaurants.
Cambodian Cultural Village
You can browse the exhibits at Cambodian Cultural Village, a museum with a story of its own, during your holiday in Siem Reap. Discover the breathtaking sunrises in this culturally rich area or enjoy its local tours.
Ta Prohm Temple
Nature and human endeavour combine here to create one of the world's most atmospheric temples.
Activities
2-Day Temples with Sunrise Small Group Tour of Siem Reap
Siem Reap: Phare, the Cambodian Circus Show Tickets
From Siem Reap: Kampong Phluk Floating Village Tour by Boat
Sunset Dinner Tour: Tonle Sap Lake Floating Village
Siem Reap: Apsara Dance Show & Dinner with Tuk-Tuk Transfers
Full-Day Angkor Wat Temples with a local Tuk Tuk Tours
Reviews of Siem Reap
4/5 - Good
Worth visiting!! Dont leave without going to see the temples
4/5 - Good
Recommend stay 3-4 days only. Not much to see apart from temples, floating village and waterfalls. Markets are all the same selling same things but different prices starting with.
5/5 - Excellent
Outside of the temples which is the number 1 attraction. This is a great town to kick back and relax.
5/5 - Excellent
A great place to travel, definitely a favorite destination of mine! The people are beautiful and there are so many things to see. Lots of food and drink options too!
4/5 - Good
These people need our help. A poor country but rich in humility...
5/5 - Excellent
A lot of travellers only spend a few days in Siem Reap. This town has so much history, a ‘few days’ is not enough time. If possible, spend two weeks here. The perfect amount of time to research & explore temples, museums, tours, at an easy pace.