Siem Reap on a Budget: Affordable Travel Tips and Free Activities

Exploring Siem Reap doesn’t have to drain your wallet. From affordable guesthouses and street food to free temples and local experiences, this guide shows you how to enjoy the magic of Cambodia’s cultural capital on a budget without sacrificing the adventure.

1. Affordable Stays: Budget Accommodations

Siem Reap offers plenty of budget-friendly options, from hostels like Mad Monkey to guesthouses like Golden Temple Villa. Many include free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and even bike rentals, ensuring comfort without the high price tag.

2. Feast for Less: Cheap Eats and Street Food

Skip expensive restaurants and dive into Siem Reap’s street food scene. Try $1 noodle soups, grilled meats, and fresh fruit shakes at Pub Street or local markets like Psar Chaa. For a sit-down meal, Khmer Grill offers hearty dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

3. Free Temples and Low-Cost Attractions

While Angkor Wat requires a pass, some temples like Phnom Krom and Wat Athvea are free to visit. Stroll through the serene grounds of Wat Preah Prom Rath or explore the Angkor National Museum for a small fee.

4. Explore Nature for Free

Take a walk along the Siem Reap River or relax in the lush Royal Independence Gardens. For a small fee, visit the Butterfly Garden or enjoy a sunset at the West Baray reservoir, a peaceful escape from the city buzz.

5. Local Experiences on a Budget

Join free or low-cost activities like monk chats at Wat Damnak or volunteer at community projects. Rent a bike for $2 a day to explore rural villages or attend free cultural performances at Temple Club in the evening.