Angkor Wat temple reflected in the lotus pond at sunrise
Travel GuideApril 4, 202623 min read

Angkor Wat Guide 2026 - Complete Siem Reap Travel Guide

Complete Siem Reap travel guide 2026 - Angkor Wat sunrise tips, best hotels, top things to do, temple pass prices, food guide & budget tips. Plan your Siem Reap trip.

Waddat Editorial

Editorial Team

Angkor Wat Guide 2026 — Complete Siem Reap Travel Guide

If there's one place in Southeast Asia that genuinely lives up to the hype, it's Siem Reap. Home to Angkor Wat — the largest religious monument on the planet — this small Cambodian city punches way above its weight. Whether you're a temple-hopping history buff, a budget backpacker stretching every dollar, or a luxury traveler looking for five-star comfort between sunrise sessions, Siem Reap delivers.

This Siem Reap travel guide 2026 covers everything you need: when to go, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat, and how to experience Angkor Wat without the crowds (or at least with the best possible view). We've included real prices, honest hotel picks, and practical tips from multiple trips to the region.

Table of Contents

  1. Why Visit Siem Reap
  2. Best Time to Visit Siem Reap
  3. How to Get to Siem Reap
  4. Where to Stay in Siem Reap
  5. Things to Do in Siem Reap
  6. Getting Around Siem Reap
  7. Food & Drink Guide
  8. Day Trips from Siem Reap
  9. Siem Reap Travel Tips
  10. Frequently Asked Questions

Why Visit Siem Reap

Siem Reap isn't just a one-trick town. Yes, Angkor Wat is the main draw — and it absolutely deserves to be — but the surrounding area packs an incredible amount into a compact, easy-to-navigate destination.

Here's what makes Siem Reap special:

  • Angkor Archaeological Park — Over 1,000 temples spread across 400 km², including the iconic Angkor Wat, the mysterious faces of Bayon, and the jungle-engulfed Ta Prohm
  • Tonle Sap Lake — Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, with floating villages where entire communities live on the water
  • Affordable everything — Cambodia runs on the US dollar, and your money goes far here. Comfortable hotels under $30, street meals under $2, and temple passes that are genuinely reasonable
  • Pub Street & Night Market — A surprisingly lively social scene with great restaurants, bars, and shopping after a day of temple exploration
  • Warm Khmer hospitality — Some of the friendliest locals in Southeast Asia, many of whom work in tourism and speak excellent English

Most visitors spend 3-4 days here, which is enough time to see the major temples, explore the town, and take a day trip or two. If you're short on time, even a well-planned 2 days can cover the essentials.

Best Time to Visit Siem Reap

Cambodia has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The right time for you depends on your priorities — weather, crowds, or budget.

November to February — Cool & Dry (Best Overall) 🌤️

  • Temperature: 25–32°C (77–90°F)
  • Pros: Low humidity, minimal rain, comfortable temperatures for temple walking
  • Cons: Peak tourist season, highest hotel prices, Angkor Wat at sunrise gets crowded
  • Book early: Hotels fill up weeks in advance, especially December–January

This is the classic "best time to visit Angkor Wat." Mornings are cool enough for comfortable cycling, and you won't get caught in a downpour halfway through Angkor Thom.

March to May — Hot Season ☀️

  • Temperature: 35–40°C (95–104°F)
  • Pros: Fewer tourists, cheaper hotels, clear skies
  • Cons: Seriously hot — temple walking in midday is brutal
  • Tip: Start your temple days at 4:30am for sunrise, rest midday, go back out at 3pm

If you can handle the heat, this is actually a great time to visit. Hotel prices drop 30-50%, and you'll have Ta Prohm almost to yourself if you time it right.

June to October — Rainy Season 🌧️

  • Temperature: 27–33°C (81–91°F)
  • Pros: Lush green landscapes, best hotel deals, dramatic skies for photography, fewer tourists
  • Cons: Afternoon downpours (usually 2–4pm), high humidity, some rural roads flood
  • Tip: Rain rarely lasts all day — mornings are often clear and pleasant

Our recommendation: November through January for first-timers who want the best weather. If you're budget-conscious or a photographer, September through October offers gorgeous green scenery and the lowest prices of the year.

How to Get to Siem Reap

By Air

Siem Reap International Airport (REP) is just 8 km from the city center and well-connected to the region:

From Flight Time Typical Cost
Bangkok (BKK/DMK) 1 hour $40–80
Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) 1 hour $60–100
Singapore (SIN) 2.5 hours $80–150
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) 2 hours $60–120
Hanoi (HAN) 1.5 hours $70–120
Phnom Penh (PNH) 45 minutes $60–100

Airlines servicing REP include Cambodia Angkor Air, AirAsia, VietJet, SilkAir, and LAN Airlines.

Getting from the airport to town: A tuk-tuk costs $3–5 and takes about 15 minutes. A taxi runs $7–10. Most hotels offer free airport pickup if you book directly or stay 3+ nights.

By Bus from Phnom Penh

  • Duration: 6–7 hours
  • Cost: $10–15
  • Companies: Giant Ibis ($15, most reliable), Mekong Express, Capitol VIP
  • Tip: Giant Ibis includes hotel pickup, Wi-Fi, and a bathroom on board — worth the extra $2–3

By Bus from Bangkok

  • Duration: 6–8 hours (including border crossing)
  • Cost: $15–25
  • Route: Bangkok → Poipet border → Siem Reap
  • Tip: The Poipet border crossing is notorious for scams. Ignore anyone who tries to "help" with your visa — process it yourself at the official window

Private Taxi

  • From Phnom Penh: 5–6 hours, $50–70
  • From Bangkok: 6–7 hours, $60–80
  • Worth it for: Small groups (3-4 people) where the per-person cost is reasonable and you want door-to-door convenience

Visa Information

  • Visa on arrival: $30 USD (tourist visa), available at the airport and most land borders. Bring one passport photo (or pay $2 extra).
  • E-visa: $36 USD, apply online at evisa.gov.kh, takes 3 business days. Faster and avoids border scams.
  • Visa-free: ASEAN nationals don't need a visa for stays up to 30 days.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap

Neighborhood Guide

Old Market / Pub Street Area — Best for first-timers. You can walk to dozens of restaurants, bars, the night market, and the river. It's the most convenient base, though it can be noisy at night. Hotels here range from $5 dorm beds to $200+ luxury suites.

Wat Bo Area — A 10-minute walk northeast of the center. Quieter, more local feel, with a lovely riverside promenade. Great mid-range hotels and guesthouses with pools. Our favorite area for travelers who want easy access to town without the noise.

Sok San / National Road 6 — Further from the center but significantly cheaper. Budget guesthouses and local eateries. You'll need a tuk-tuk to get to the Old Market area ($2–3 each way). Best for backpackers watching their budget.

Luxury Hotels ($80+/night)

Booking.com: Belmond La Résidence d'Angkor — The most luxurious hotel in Siem Reap. Stunning Khmer-inspired architecture, a massive pool, and a spa that's worth the trip alone. Located in a quiet area 10 minutes from the center. $150–300/night.

Booking.com: Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor — A Siem Reap landmark since 1932. Classic colonial elegance with modern amenities. The pool is legendary. Right near the Royal Independence Gardens. $120–250/night.

Booking.com: Templation Hotel — Boutique luxury with only 28 rooms, each with a private terrace or pool. Set in lush tropical gardens. Exceptional service and a beautiful infinity pool. $100–200/night.

Mid-Range Hotels ($30–70/night)

Booking.com: Pool Paradise Boutique Hotel — Exactly what the name says. A gorgeous pool, spacious rooms, and a fantastic breakfast included. 5-minute walk from Pub Street. $40–60/night.

Booking.com: Onederz Hostel — Yes, it's primarily a hostel, but their private rooms with AC and hot water are excellent value at $25–35/night. Great social atmosphere, rooftop bar, and a small pool. The dorms are also solid at $5–8/night.

Booking.com: Maison 565 — A beautiful French colonial-style boutique hotel with an art gallery, saltwater pool, and one of the best breakfasts in Siem Reap. $45–65/night.

Booking.com: Navutu Dreams Resort & Wellness — Three separate pools surrounded by tropical gardens. Offers yoga classes and spa treatments. Slightly further from the center but a free tuk-tuk shuttle is provided. $50–80/night.

Budget Options (Under $30/night)

Booking.com: Mad Monkey Hostel — The social backpacker hub of Siem Reap. Pool, nightly events, free breakfast, and a lively bar. Dorms $5–8, private rooms $15–25. Great for meeting other travelers.

Booking.com: Hostel by The Vine — Clean, quiet, and well-run. Small pool, free breakfast, and helpful staff. Not as social as Mad Monkey but better for a good night's sleep. Dorms $5–7, privates $12–20.

Booking.com: Me Mate's Place — Australian-run, friendly, and consistently well-reviewed. Free pancakes for breakfast, a decent pool, and a relaxed vibe. Dorms $4–6, privates $10–18.

Things to Do in Siem Reap

Angkor Wat

The reason most people come to Siem Reap. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat is the world's largest religious monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Entrance pass: 1-day $37, 3-day $62, 7-day $72 — buy at the main ticket center on the road to the temples
  • Hours: 5:00am–6:00pm
  • Sunrise: Arrive by 5:00am for the best spot at the reflecting pool. The most popular (and photogenic) months are November through February.
  • Pro tip: Most crowds leave by 9am. If you skip sunrise and arrive at 8:30am, you'll have a much more peaceful experience.
  • What to wear: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Bring a scarf or sarong — it's the easiest solution.

Angkor Thom & Bayon Temple

The "Great City" of Angkor Thom was the last capital of the Khmer Empire. The centerpiece is Bayon Temple, famous for its 216 massive stone faces that seem to follow you as you walk through.

  • Included in: Angkor pass
  • Don't miss: The South Gate (flanked by rows of stone giants), the Terrace of the Elephants, and Baphuon temple
  • Best time: Early morning when the faces catch the soft light
  • Allow: 2–3 hours for the full Angkor Thom complex

Ta Prohm

The "Tomb Raider temple" — famously featured in the Angelina Jolie film. Massive tree roots spill over crumbling doorways and walls, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in all of Southeast Asia.

  • Included in: Angkor pass
  • Best time: 7:00–8:00am before the tour buses arrive
  • Tip: The east side has the most dramatic tree-over-structure scenes — head there first

Banteay Srei

A smaller but exquisitely detailed temple about 45 minutes from the main Angkor complex. The pink sandstone carvings are the finest in the entire Angkor region.

  • Included in: Angkor pass
  • Transport: $20–25 round trip by tuk-tuk
  • Best time: Mid-morning when the sun illuminates the pink stone
  • Allow: 1–1.5 hours — it's small but you'll want to study the carvings

Phnom Bakheng

A hilltop temple offering the best sunset views over Angkor Wat and the surrounding countryside. It was the first major temple built in the Angkor area.

  • Included in: Angkor pass
  • Tip: Arrive by 4:30pm — only 300 people are allowed on the hill at sunset, and it fills up fast
  • Alternative: Pre Rup temple also has great sunset views with fewer crowds

Tonle Sap Lake & Floating Villages

Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake expands to five times its dry-season size during the rainy season. The floating villages are a unique cultural experience.

  • Kampong Phluk: $20–25 for a boat tour. More authentic, stilted houses, flooded forest. Best during wet season (June–November) when water levels are high.
  • Chong Khneas: $15–20. Closer to town but more touristy. OK if you're short on time.
  • Tip: Book through your hotel or a reputable tour operator rather than random tuk-tuk drivers who may overcharge.

Angkor National Museum

An excellent introduction to Khmer history and art before you visit the temples. The galleries explain the symbolism, architecture, and history in an air-conditioned, easy-to-follow format.

  • Hours: 8:30am–6:00pm (last entry 5:30pm)
  • Cost: $12
  • Tip: Visit here on your first afternoon in Siem Reap — it makes the temples much more meaningful

Artisans Angkor

A social enterprise that trains young Cambodians in traditional crafts. Free guided tours show you silk weaving, stone carving, lacquerware, and woodwork.

  • Cost: Free entry and tours
  • Hours: 7:30am–5:30pm
  • Tip: The workshop tours are genuinely interesting and there's no pressure to buy (though the quality is high if you want souvenirs)

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

No animals — just incredible human performance. This is a must-do evening activity. Acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, and actors tell Cambodian stories through breathtaking physical theater.

  • Cost: $15–25 depending on seating
  • Showtime: 8:00pm nightly (also 5:00pm some seasons)
  • Book: Klook: Phare The Cambodian Circus — often has discounts
  • Tip: The front rows are worth the extra cost — you'll see the performers' faces and sweat

Cambodian Cultural Village

A theme park-style attraction with miniature versions of Cambodian landmarks, traditional dance performances, and cultural shows from different ethnic groups.

  • Cost: $15
  • Hours: 9:00am–9:00pm
  • Best for: Families and travelers who want a lighthearted cultural overview

Wat Bo

The oldest Buddhist temple in Siem Reap, dating back to the 18th century. A peaceful escape from the tourist crowds with beautiful wall paintings depicting the Reamker (Cambodian Ramayana).

  • Cost: Free
  • Hours: Daylight hours
  • Tip: Combine with a walk along the riverside promenade

Pub Street & Night Market

Siem Reap's social hub comes alive after 5pm. Pub Street is lined with restaurants, bars, and the famous Angkor What? bar. The adjacent Night Market and Artisans d'Angkor Night Market offer souvenirs, clothing, and crafts.

  • Budget: Draft beer $0.75–1.50, street food $1–3
  • Tip: Explore the side streets off Pub Street — the restaurants are often better and cheaper than the main strip

Fish Massage

A quirky Siem Reap experience where tiny garra rufa fish nibble dead skin from your feet. It tickles like crazy but your feet will feel incredibly smooth afterward.

  • Cost: $3–5 for 20–30 minutes
  • Location: Multiple spots on and around Pub Street

Getting Around Siem Reap

Tuk-Tuk

The backbone of Siem Reap transport. For temple visits, hire a tuk-tuk driver for the full day ($15–20) rather than paying per trip. A good driver will know the best routes, suggest photo stops, and wait for you at each temple.

For short rides around town, expect to pay $2–3.

Remork (Motodop)

The motorcycle trailer version of a tuk-tuk — cheaper and a bit more adventurous. $1–2 for short trips around town. Not recommended for long-distance temple circuits (uncomfortable and dusty).

Private Car with Driver

The most comfortable option, especially for small groups or families. $30–35/day for the Angkor circuit. Air-conditioned, faster between sites, and you can store water and snacks easily. Ask your hotel to arrange one — they'll recommend a reliable driver.

Bicycle Rental

Siem Reap is flat and cycling to the closer temples (Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom) is very doable. Rental is $1–3/day from shops around the Old Market area.

  • Best for: Budget travelers, early morning temple visits, exploring the town
  • Bring: Plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat — there's minimal shade on the roads between temples

Walking

The Old Market, Pub Street, Wat Bo area, and riverside are all easily walkable. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in the central area are within a 15-minute walk of each other.

Grab / PassApp

Grab (the Uber of Southeast Asia) operates in Siem Reap but is less common than in Phnom Penh or Bangkok. PassApp is the local ride-hailing app and often has better availability. Both are useful for getting around town, though for temples you're better off arranging a day driver.

Food & Drink Guide

Must-Try Khmer Dishes

Khmer food doesn't get the international attention of Thai or Vietnamese cuisine, but it's genuinely delicious — and often milder, which appeals to travelers who find Thai food too spicy.

  • Fish Amok — The national dish. Steamed fish curry in a banana leaf cup with coconut milk, lemongrass, and kaffir lime. Creamy, fragrant, and not spicy. $3–6 at local restaurants, $8–15 at upscale places.
  • Beef Lok Lak — Stir-fried beef cubes with a tangy lime-and-pepper dipping sauce, served over rice with a fried egg on top. $3–5.
  • Khmer Red Curry — Similar to Thai red curry but milder and sweeter, often with chicken, fish, or tofu. $3–5.
  • Nom Banh Chok — Khmer noodles served with a green fish curry sauce, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts. The quintessential Siem Reap breakfast — look for it at morning markets. $1–2.
  • Bai Sach Chrouk — Grilled pork over broken rice with a fried egg and pickled vegetables. Simple, satisfying, and available everywhere in the morning. $1–2.

Restaurant Recommendations

Cuisine Wat Damnak — Chef Luu Meng's award-winning restaurant is the finest dining experience in Siem Reap. The set menu ($25–40) changes regularly and showcases modern Khmer cuisine at its best. Reservations essential. Located on Wat Damnak village road.

Chanrey Tree — Beautiful setting on the riverside with a menu that elevates traditional Khmer dishes. Mains $8–15. Great cocktail list. One of the best "nice dinner" options in town.

Khmer Kitchen — A casual, reliable favorite for authentic Khmer food at fair prices. The Fish Amok and Lok Lak are consistently good. Mains $4–8. Two locations near the Old Market.

Malis Restaurant — Upscale Khmer cuisine with an elegant setting. Part of a respected Phnom Penh restaurant group. Good for a special dinner. Mains $10–20.

Butterflies Garden Restaurant — Set in a beautiful tropical garden with — you guessed it — free-flying butterflies. Good Khmer and Western food at reasonable prices. Mains $5–10.

Street Food & Budget Eating

The night market area and Pokambor Avenue are lined with street food stalls. Grilled meats on sticks ($1–2), fresh spring rolls ($1), fruit shakes ($1–2), and noodle soups ($1–2) make cheap eating easy and delicious.

Budget food costs: Street food $2–4/meal, local restaurants $3–8, nice restaurants $10–25, fine dining $25–40+.

Drinks

  • Angkor Beer and Cambodia Beer: The local lagers. $0.75–1.50 for a draft at most bars.
  • Fresh fruit shakes: Mango, dragonfruit, and passion fruit. $1–2 from street vendors and $3–5 at cafes.
  • Cambodian iced coffee: Strong coffee with condensed milk. $0.50–1 from street vendors — sweet, strong, and addictive.

Cooking Classes

A great way to bring a piece of Cambodia home with you. Most classes include a market tour where you learn about local ingredients, then cook 3–4 dishes.

Day Trips from Siem Reap

Tonle Sap Floating Villages

The closest and most popular day trip. We covered this in the Things to Do section, but it's worth noting as a half-day excursion when you want a break from temples.

  • Duration: Half day
  • Cost: $15–25 for boat tour + $5–10 transport

Phnom Kulen (Kulen Mountain)

A sacred mountain about 90 minutes from Siem Reap. Features a waterfall (swimming possible), a massive reclining Buddha carved into the rock, and the "River of 1000 Lingas" — ancient carvings in the riverbed.

  • Cost: $15 entry fee + $25–35 for transport (tuk-tuk or car)
  • Duration: Full day
  • Tip: Combine with Banteay Srei since they're in the same direction

Beng Mealea

An unrestored temple about 90 minutes from Siem Reap, largely overtaken by jungle. It feels like discovering a lost city — similar to how Angkor would have looked to early explorers.

  • Cost: $5 entry + $25–35 for transport
  • Duration: Half day (or combine with Phnom Kulen for a full day)
  • Tip: Bring a flashlight for exploring the darker corridors

Battambang

Cambodia's second-largest city has a charming colonial center, the famous bamboo train, and some excellent food. You can do it as a (long) day trip or stay overnight.

  • By boat: 3 hours on the Tonle Sap, $20–25. Scenic but seasonal (wet season only).
  • By bus: 3–4 hours, $5. The road is much faster than the boat.
  • By minivan: 2.5–3 hours, $6–8. The most comfortable option.
  • Tip: If time allows, stay one night — Battambang deserves more than a day trip

Siem Reap Travel Tips

Money & Currency

  • US dollars are accepted everywhere — Cambodia practically runs on USD. Bring crisp bills (no tears or heavy wear, as they may be rejected).
  • Cambodian Riel (KHR) is used for small purchases and change. 1 USD = ~4,100 Riel.
  • ATMs: Canadia Bank and ABA Bank ATMs have the lowest fees ($3–5 withdrawal). Avoid standalone ATMs with higher fees.
  • Credit cards: Accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops. Many places are cash-only.

SIM Cards & Connectivity

Buy a tourist SIM card at the airport or any phone shop in town. Cellcard and Metfone are the main providers.

  • Cost: $2–5 for a tourist SIM with data (5–10GB)
  • 4G coverage: Good in Siem Reap town, spotty in rural areas
  • Tip: Have your hotel or guesthouse set it up for you — it takes 5 minutes

Temple Etiquette

  • Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered at all temples. This is strictly enforced at Angkor Wat and Bayon. Bring a light scarf or buy a sarong at the market ($2–3).
  • Behavior: Don't touch the carvings, don't climb on restricted areas, and be respectful of monks (don't photograph them without asking).
  • Guides: Official guides wear a badge and cost $25–35/day. Worth it for the first day if you want deep historical context.

Safety

Siem Reap is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare. Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) occasionally happens but is uncommon.

  • At night: The Old Market and Pub Street areas are well-lit and busy. Use normal city caution.
  • Scams to avoid: Tuk-tuk drivers quoting inflated prices (always agree on the fare before getting in), "official" guides without badges, and anyone at the Poipet border offering to process your visa for extra money.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected but increasingly appreciated. As a rough guide:

  • Restaurant: Round up the bill or leave $1–2
  • Tuk-tuk driver: $1–2 per day for good service
  • Temple guide: $5–10 per day
  • Hotel staff: $1 for bellhop, $1–2 per day for housekeeping

Useful Apps

  • Grab: Ride-hailing (limited availability in Siem Reap)
  • PassApp: Local ride-hailing, often better than Grab in Siem Reap
  • Google Maps: Essential for navigation
  • Maps.me: Offline maps — useful as backup
  • XE Currency: Quick USD/KHR conversion

Budget Breakdown

Budget Level Per Day Includes
Budget $20–35 Dorm bed ($5–8), street food ($5–8), temple tuk-tuk share, 1 attraction
Mid-Range $50–80 Private room ($30–50), restaurant meals ($15–25), private tuk-tuk, multiple attractions
Luxury $120+ Boutique hotel ($80–150), fine dining, private car, all attractions, spa

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 1 day enough for Angkor Wat?

Technically yes — you can see Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm in a single long day (5am–3pm). But you'll be rushing and missing a lot. We recommend at least 2 days for the main temples, and 3 days if you want to include Banteay Srei and the outer temples.

How many days do you need in Siem Reap?

3–4 days is the sweet spot. That gives you 2 days for temples, a day for the floating village and town exploration, and flexibility for a day trip or relaxation. Even 2 days is worthwhile if you're on a tight itinerary.

Is Siem Reap safe for tourists?

Yes. Siem Reap is one of the safest tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Use normal precautions — watch your belongings, agree on prices before services, and avoid unlit areas at night.

Do I need a visa for Cambodia?

Most nationalities need a visa. The easiest option is the e-visa ($36, apply at evisa.gov.kh). You can also get a visa on arrival at the airport and most land borders for $30 (bring a passport photo).

What is the best time to visit Angkor Wat?

November through February offers the best weather — cool, dry, and comfortable for temple walking. For the best sunrise photos, visit during these months. If you prefer fewer crowds and don't mind heat, March to May is also fine (just start very early).

How much does it cost to visit Angkor Wat?

The Angkor Archaeological Park pass costs $37 for 1 day, $62 for 3 days, and $72 for 7 days. Children under 12 enter free. The pass covers all temples in the Angkor complex except Phnom Kulen and Beng Mealea. Buy your pass at the official ticket center — you'll need your passport for the photo.

Can you visit Angkor Wat at sunrise?

Yes — the park opens at 5:00am specifically for sunrise viewing. Arrive by 5:00am to secure a good spot at the reflecting pool (the north side of the moat). The sunrise itself takes place around 5:30–6:30am depending on the season. It's free with your Angkor pass.

What should I wear to Angkor Wat?

Shoulders and knees must be covered — this is strictly enforced. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing: a t-shirt with sleeves, lightweight pants or a long skirt. A scarf or sarong can cover your shoulders if needed. Comfortable walking shoes are essential — the temple grounds are vast and the stone steps can be uneven.

Is Siem Reap expensive?

No — Siem Reap is one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia. You can travel comfortably on $30–50/day (mid-range hotel, restaurant meals, temples, transport). Budget travelers can get by on $20–25/day. Even luxury experiences (5-star hotels, fine dining) cost significantly less than in Thailand or Vietnam.

How do you get from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh?

The most popular options are:

  • Bus: 6–7 hours, $10–15 (Giant Ibis is the best operator)
  • Flight: 45 minutes, $60–100
  • Private taxi: 5–6 hours, $50–70
  • Boat: 5–6 hours along the Tonle Sap, $25–35 (seasonal, wet season only)

For most travelers, the Giant Ibis bus offers the best balance of cost, comfort, and reliability.


Planning a Cambodia trip? Check out these related Waddat guides:

Last updated: April 2026. Prices and information are checked regularly but may change. Always verify current visa requirements and temple pass prices before your trip.

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