Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a vibrant city located in northwestern Cambodia, best known as the gateway to the Angkor Wat temple complex. It serves as the primary base for tourists visiting this ancient wonder. Beyond Angkor Wat, Siem Reap boasts a bustling Old Market, lively Pub Street with numerous restaurants and bars, and opportunities to explore Cambodian culture through traditional dance performances and artisan workshops. With its mix of historical charm and modern amenities, Siem Reap has become a popular destination for those seeking to explore Cambodia's rich heritage.

Our visit to Siem Reap spanned only four days, so we wanted to balance homage to the Angkor Temples with a dose of culture, relaxation and fun. Our family of five found that balance by focusing on the major temples, while saving time for quad bikes, getting massages and visiting Pub Street at night. The result was memories for a lifetime we savor today.

This guide goes beyond the Top 10 things you should do during your visit to Siem Reap, including some side trips. If you have the time to stay in Cambodia longer than the three days I go over in my three-day Siem Reap itinerary, I highly recommend it! Phnom Penh is widely known for its history, and the temples at Banteay Srey are a bit more off-the-beaten-path than what you’ll see at Angkor Wat.

Siem Reap, in northwest Cambodia, offers up a chance to experience stunning temples, unique culture and friendly locals. Reinventing itself as the epicentre of “chic Cambodia,” you’ll find hip hotels, fantastic shopping and relaxing spas. After indulging in the food and the local culture you won’t want to leave Siem Reap.

Angkor Wat is truly a wonder of the world. This massive temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage Site are a sight to be seen. Angkor Wat is located just outside the city of Siem Reap in the ancient city of Angkor in Northwestern Cambodia. There is plenty to do and see after spending the day exploring the temples. You will fall in love with the laid back charm of this city.

Siem Reap is an unforgettable stop to add to your travels in Southeast Asia. This was a place that had been on my photography bucket list for a long time, and I couldn’t have asked for more. Exploring the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat gave me a captivating introduction to the heart and history of Siem Reap through its rich culture and welcoming people.

I expected that Siem Reap would be one of those towns that you suffer through, killing time in between visits to the main attractions. After arriving at the new airport that opened in 2023 and driving towards town along this new, perfect road followed by a wide boulevard as you approach the town, I realized I was in for a surprise.
Siem Reap is a charming town on its own right; walkable, increasingly conscious of the environment, remarkably neat and clean, with delicious food options, wellness options and locals ready with a smile to make your stay welcoming.
In reality, I didn't have as much time outside of doing the obligatory (and magical) temple tours as I would have liked; 3.5 days could happily be extended to a more relaxed 5-7.
Hopefully this will inspire you to look forward to your downtime, and maybe build in a little extra to enjoy this lovely city.