The Essential Travel Guide: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, my blog may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.
Welcome to the historic city of Siem Reap, the second largest in Cambodia and the gateway to the mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat. Siem Reap, a small but charming city, has many corners to explore beyond just Angkor Wat. Having spent some time exploring Cambodia, I have curated an essential travel guide to Siem Reap for future travelers.
Below, you will find essential information on Cambodia, with a focus on Siem Reap, to use as your travel guide while planning your adventure. You will also find links to more in-depth travel itineraries and must-see attractions in Siem Reap.
Oh, and as always, please practice sustainable tourism while traveling. :)
The Travel Guide to siem Reap
Visa:
A valid passport and eVisa are required for travel to Cambodia which can be applied for here.
The fee for the eVisa is $35, and it can take up to 3 days to process. Once approved, be sure to print a copy and bring it with you. Immigration was a bit upset with me when I did not have a printed copy, but luckily they still let me through.
The visa allows you a 30-day stay. A $10 fine will be imposed for each day you overstay. Immigration officials can also detain and arrest you if you overstay too long, so make sure to write down when your 30 days expire!
Official Currency:
Cambodian Riel and USD
Important Note: Using two currencies can be extremely confusing, especially when receiving change for something as simple as a meal. It is common to receive change in both Riel and USD. Be sure to have an exchange rate app handy to double-check that you have received the correct amount. This is a common trick some business owners use to secretly make more money. This has happened to me numerous times, and I simply correct them and show them the conversion.
Official Language:
Khmer
Many locals speak English fluently as well.
Popular Places to Visit:
Places I Have Been: Siem Reap / Angkor Wat
Places I Have Not Been: Phnom Penh, Koh Rong
How Many Days Do You Need:
This all depends on your travel style and pace. Below are my suggestions for the amount of time to spend in each place, though you can always add more days for locations that particularly draw you.
How to Get to Siem Reap:
Flying
You can fly directly to Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). The airport is located about 50 km from the downtown area. You can book ahead to find cheaper transport options (around $7-$10 USD).
Pro Tip: If you arrive later after 9:00 P.M., finding a ride to the downtown area of Siem Reap can be challenging. If you are unable to book ahead, I recommend finding someone from your flight who is also traveling downtown and asking if they want to split the fare (usually around $35).
Bus / Shared Minivan
You can also book one of these options depending on where you are coming from (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos). This is a longer form of travel but can be great for those on a backpacker budget. For more information, I recommend searching online based on your origin. 12GoAsia is always great for finding specific companies, or you can check with your accommodation.
Traveling within Cambodia:
The Options: Taxi, Shared Van, or Bus.
Check your hotel or hostel for more information on these. There are some options on 12GoAsia and Get Your Guide as well.
Getting Around Siem Reap:
Most of Siem Reap, aside from day tours, is easily walkable. For day trips and farther destinations, I recommend joining one of the many inexpensive guided tours to Angkor Wat and Kampong Phluk Floating Village. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available.
Best Time to Visit:
November - February (not as hot in these months)
The Seasons:
Rainy: May - October | Dry: November - April
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cambodia Safe?
I would say yes, but I can only speak for my time spent in Siem Reap. I felt extremely safe and never hesitant or unsafe while I was there. I traveled solo through Siem Reap.
How to Stay Safe:
Follow common travel safety practices.
Always check vaccination requirements and travel advisories, and practice food and water cleanliness/safety. Do not drink tap water in Southeast Asia.
Be aware of travel scams and know how much things should cost.
Emergency Contact Numbers: Fire: 118 | Police: 117 | Ambulance: 119
Never travel without the right insurance in case of any sickness, injuries, or theft. Safety Wing is by far the best travel insurance. It has saved me numerous times by covering hospital visits when I was sick during my travels in Asia.
Where Should I Stay?
Siem Reap is small and easily walkable. I suggest staying near Pub Street, the Old French Quarter, Old Market, or Wat Bo Road.
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
Best Backpacker/Hostel Option: The Twizt - Lifestyle Hostel & Hotel - I stayed here!
Best Low-Budget: Boutique Indochine d'Angkor or The Urban
Best Mid-Budget: Royal Crown Hotel & Spa or Two Seasons Siem Reap Hotel
Best Luxury: Viroth's Hotel or Golden Temple Residence
Are there Vegan Food Options?
There was an insane amount of yummy vegan food options in Siem Reap I could not believe it…. Below I have listed some of my favorites.
Haven (Vegan Options - Restaurant gives back to its community)
Peace Cafe Vegetarian Restaurant (Cute Outdoor Seating)
New Leaf Eatery (Cozy and homey inside)
HeyBong The Healthy Secrets 100% Vegan (Yummy Smoothie Bowls)
Common Grounds Cafe (Yummy Coffee)
The Little Red Fox Espresso Cafe (More Yummy Coffee)
Pro Tip: Throughout Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, and the surrounding areas, you will encounter many children selling trinkets or parents selling coloring books and other school supplies for their children. Contrary to your instinct, I recommend not buying any items from these children. Purchasing from them can negatively impact their education and encourage them to continue skipping school.
