A long layover in Siem-reap is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Siem Reap International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 45 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Siem-reap, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Cambodia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Siem-reap is roughly 45 minutes from REP via Taxis and Tuk-tuks. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in KHR. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Siem-reap:
Start with Angkor Wat Temple (Quick Visit). Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look. Then, if time allows, make your way to Pub Street. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside REP, you can spend time at Plaza Premium Lounge (Historical) or try Siem Reap Duty Free (Historical). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
- In the city: Cuisine Wat Damnak and Marum Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Siem-reap.
- At the airport: Burger King (Historical) and Airport Coffee & Snacks (Historical) will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Siem-reap from REP
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxis and Tuk-tuks | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxis and Tuk-tuks is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Siem-reap might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Siem-reap, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at REP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Siem-reap’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at REP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Cambodia and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at REP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, REP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Siem-reap count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave REP. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.