Old Market Area, Siem Reap Travel Guide

Discover the vibrant Old Market Area in Siem Reap, a cultural hub filled with lively markets, charming cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Home
Travel Guides
Cambodia
Siem Reap
Old Market Area

Exploring the Old Market Area in Siem Reap is like stepping into Cambodia's vibrant cultural heart. This bustling neighborhood is an eclectic blend of traditional and modern influences, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences. The area is famous for its lively marketplaces, where you can find everything from fresh produce and exotic spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The aroma of street food and the hum of vendors create an atmosphere that is both exciting and welcoming. Wander through the narrow streets and you'll encounter an array of charming cafes, boutique shops, and local eateries. Each corner you turn reveals a new hidden gem, whether it's a quaint art gallery or a serene temple. The Old Market itself, known locally as Phsar Chas, is a must-visit. Here, you'll find an authentic Cambodian shopping experience, where bargaining is not just expected but encouraged. It's the perfect place to pick up unique gifts or sample local delicacies. In the evenings, the Old Market Area transforms into a lively nightlife hub. Colorful lights illuminate the streets, and the sound of live music fills the air. Pubs and bars offer a chance to unwind and mingle with both locals and fellow travelers. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink or a night of dancing, there's something for everyone. The neighborhood's friendly vibe and cultural richness make it an unforgettable part of any trip to Siem Reap.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Old Market Area.

Bargain at the Old Market. Negotiating prices is part of the shopping experience.
Try the local street food. It's both delicious and inexpensive.
Visit in the evening for a different atmosphere and lively nightlife.
Wear comfortable shoes. The streets are narrow and best explored on foot.

Explore Old Market Area: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Phare, The Cambodian Circus

Experience the magic of Phare, The Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap, where art, culture, and breathtaking performances unite.

4.8

Angkor National Museum

Explore the Angkor National Museum for a captivating journey through the history and culture of the Khmer Empire in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

4.4

Pub Street

Experience the vibrant nightlife and culinary delights of Pub Street in Siem Reap, the heart of Cambodia's cultural scene.

4.4

Pre Rup temple

Discover the ancient beauty and rich cultural heritage of Pre Rup Temple, a stunning historical landmark in Cambodia's Angkor Archaeological Park.

4.7

Best landmarks in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Pub Street

Experience the vibrant nightlife and cultural richness of Pub Street in Siem Reap, where every night is a celebration of food, fun, and friendship.

4.4

Angkor Wat

Explore Angkor Wat, the magnificent temple city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Cambodia's rich Khmer history and architecture.

4.8

Ta Prohm Temple

Explore Ta Prohm, the Tomb Raider Temple: where nature and ancient architecture intertwine in a mesmerizing dance of history and beauty.

4.8

Prasat Preah Khan

Explore Prasat Preah Khan, a sprawling 12th-century temple complex that once served as a royal city and spiritual center in the Angkor region.

4.8

Best restaurants in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Chanrey Tree

Discover the authentic taste of Cambodia at Chanrey Tree in Siem Reap - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

4.5

Pot & pan siem reap

Experience authentic Cambodian cuisine at Pot & Pan in Siem Reap – where family-friendly dining meets flavorful traditions.

4.5

The Sugar Palm

Experience authentic Khmer cuisine at The Sugar Palm in Siem Reap - a culinary gem reflecting Cambodia's rich cultural heritage.

4.4

Nick Restaurant

Experience authentic Cambodian flavors at Nick Restaurant in Siem Reap—where every dish tells a story.

4.6

Best bars in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

WILD - Creative Bar & Spring Rolls Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors and creative cocktails at WILD - Creative Bar & Spring Rolls Restaurant in Siem Reap.

4.9

Miss Wong Cocktail Bar

Discover Miss Wong Cocktail Bar in Siem Reap, where exquisite cocktails and delectable dim sum await in a stylish and lively atmosphere.

4.5

Barcode Bar Siem Reap

Unwind with a cocktail at Barcode Bar Siem Reap, where vibrant nightlife meets exceptional service in a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Picasso Bar

Discover the lively atmosphere of Picasso Bar in Siem Reap, where local charm meets vibrant nightlife, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Pub Street

Discover the energetic charm of Pub Street, Siem Reap's ultimate destination for dining, shopping, and nightlife.

4.4

X-Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Siem Reap at X-Bar, a rooftop bar offering stunning views and captivating live music.

4.2

The Angkor What? Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Angkor What? Bar in Siem Reap, where drinks, music, and great company come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Barcode Bar Siem Reap

Unwind at Barcode Bar Siem Reap, a lively cocktail lounge offering expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night.

4.4

Best shops in Old Market Area

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Old Market

Discover the Old Market in Siem Reap, a lively hub showcasing authentic Cambodian crafts, delicious street food, and a unique shopping experience.

4.2

Senteurs d'Angkor (Old Market)

Discover the essence of Cambodia at Senteurs d'Angkor, your go-to gift shop in Siem Reap for authentic souvenirs and local treasures.

4.6

SATU Concept Store

Explore the artistic soul of Cambodia at SATU Concept Store, where handmade treasures and cultural heritage come together in Krong Siem Reap.

5.0

very berry

Explore the charm of Very Berry in Siem Reap, where authentic Cambodian souvenirs and gifts await to remind you of your travels.

4.5

Explore Old Market Area on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Old Market Area, mapped for you.

Old Market Area Essentials

The Old Market Area is easily accessible from various parts of Siem Reap. If you’re arriving from the Siem Reap International Airport, a taxi or tuk-tuk will take approximately 15 minutes. If you’re coming from the city center, it’s a short walk or a 5-10 minute tuk-tuk ride. Buses from nearby towns also stop at designated areas close to the Old Market.
The Old Market Area is compact and best explored on foot. However, tuk-tuks are readily available and can be hired for longer distances or to reach nearby attractions. Bicycles are also a popular option for tourists and can be rented from various shops in the area. Public transport options are limited, but a few local buses connect the area to other neighborhoods.
The Old Market Area is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid secluded areas at night and remain vigilant in crowded markets. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in busy tourist spots. It's advisable to stay away from the outskirts of the area after dark, where incidents are more likely to happen.
In case of emergencies, dial 117 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. The local hospitals and clinics are equipped to handle most situations. Always carry a copy of your passport and emergency contacts. It’s also wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate; modest attire is recommended when visiting temples. Religion: Do be respectful at all religious sites; remove shoes when entering. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful to fellow passengers; Don't use loud phones or play music in public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a polite 'sous-dey' (hello); Don't engage in overly casual behavior. Eating & Drinking: Do try street food and local delicacies; Don't waste food or drink in public places.
To experience the Old Market Area like a local, visit in the early morning when vendors set up and the area comes alive with fresh produce. Engage with local artisans and shopkeepers, who are often happy to share their stories. Visit the nearby night market for a vibrant atmosphere and excellent food options. Don’t hesitate to try local dishes like Amok or Khmer barbecue, and always bargain respectfully when shopping.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Old Market Area

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Old Market Area. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloសួស្តី
  [soo-sdei]
- Goodbyeលាហើយ
  [leah-heuy]
- Yesបាទ
  [baht]
- Noទេ
  [teh]
- Please/You're welcomeសូម
  [saw-maw]
- Thank youសូមអរគុណ
  [saw-maw-aw-kun]
- Excuse me/Sorryសូមទៅវែង
  [saw-maw-tweh-waeng]
- How are you?អ្នកសុខសប្បាយបានយ៉ាងដេវ?
  [nak sok sabay bahn yang daw?]
- Fine. And you?សុខសប្បាយយ៉ាងបាន អ្នកអេសអិយ?
  [sok sabay bahn bahn, nak aisai?]
- Do you speak English?អ្នកនៅទទួលខ្លួនផ្ទះអមោឃបានភាសាអង់គ្លេស?
  [nak nowt doul khluon pteah omok bahn phasaa anlokles?]
- I don't understandខុសមិនឃើញ
  [kohmern khern]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់មើលម៉ឺនុយបានមក
  [knyom chong muel menoo bon mkaw]
- I don't eat meatខ្ញុំមិនបរិយោខ
  [knyom min brai hok]
- Cheers!សួរ!
  [sour!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseខ្ញុំចង់បង់ប្រាក់បានមក
  [knyom chong ban prak bon mkaw]
- Help!ជម្រះ!
  [chamroh!]
- Go away!លើងចេញ!
  [leung chern!]
- Call the Police!ហាត់ខាតែបង្ខងសម្រាប់!
  [hat katey banh khong samrab!]
- Call a doctor!ហាត់គាតមាន!
  [hat katey katman!]
- I'm lostខ្ញុំខិតបាន
  [knyom khern bon]
- I'm illខ្ញុំមានជម្រះ
  [knyom man chamroh]
- I'd like to buy...ខ្ញុំចង់ទិញ...
  [knyom chong toon...]
- I'm just lookingខ្ញុំជិះមួយចំពោះ
  [knyom chuh moy chom poah]
- How much is it?តើវាគិតបានប៉ុន្មាន?
  [tweh vekh bat bonman?]
- That's too expensiveនេះគឺលឿងប៉ុន្មានពិបាក
  [ney khao ey bonman pibak]
- Can you lower the price?តើអ្នកធ្លាក់តម្លៃបានទៅទៀតទំនើរតើ?
  [tweh nak lerk tamlay bon tow tei mner tew?]
- What time is it?ម៉ោងប៉ះម៉ោងប៉ះ?
  [mawng bat mawng bat?]
- It's one o'clockវាយម្សិល
  [vaih msool]
- Half past (10)ផ្នែកការចុងស៊ិត
  [pnak hah chong sit]
- Morningព្រឹក
  [prook]
- Afternoonល្ងាច
  [lingchah]
- Eveningយប់
  [yob]
- Yesterdayម្សិលម្សិល
  [msool msool]
- Todayថ្ងៃនេះ
  [tngai ney]
- Tomorrowថ្ងៃស្អែ
  [tngai saeh]
- 1មួយ
  [moy]
- 2ពីរ
  [pii]
- 3បី
  [bei]
- 4បួន
  [buon]
- 5ប្រានី
  [brah nee]
- 6បុត
  [bot]
- 7ប៉ែត
  [bayt]
- 8បីលាល
  [bee leel]
- 9កញ្ញា
  [koneha]
- 10ដប់
  [daap]
- Where's a/the...?នេះត្រជាក់ជាងនេះ...?
  [ney trerchak jang ney...?]
- What's the address?អាសយដ្ឋានអស័យ?
  [astatdan asay?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?តើអ្នកអាចបង្ហាញខ្ញុំបានទេ?
  [tweh nak ah chak banhaeng knyom bon teh?]
- When's the next (bus)?នេះចុងបញ្ចិ៍កាមរ៉េ?
  [ney chong bonjcheh kamre?]
- A ticket (to ....)សេចក្តីកាយ(ទៅ....)
  [sechkae kai (twai...)]

History of Old Market Area

The Old Market Area, known locally as 'Psar Chas', has roots that trace back to the Angkor period, when Siem Reap was a thriving hub for trade and commerce. With the rise of the Khmer Empire in the 9th century, the region became an essential point for merchants traveling to and from the monumental temple complex of Angkor Wat.
During the French colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Old Market Area saw significant development as the French sought to modernize Siem Reap. They established infrastructure, including roads and public buildings, which facilitated trade. The market itself evolved into a focal point for both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the Khmer people.
The Old Market Area has long served as a cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse influences on Cambodian society. It became a gathering place for local artisans, merchants, and travelers, showcasing traditional handicrafts, textiles, and food. This vibrant atmosphere has persisted through the years, maintaining the market's role as a central cultural and economic hub in Siem Reap.
The Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979) brought devastation to Cambodia, including Siem Reap. The Old Market Area, like many places across the country, witnessed a decline in its vibrant activities. Many traders and artisans were lost during this dark period, and the market struggled to recover in the years that followed.
In the decades following the Khmer Rouge, the Old Market Area began to revive as tourism to Angkor Wat increased. The 1990s and early 2000s saw a resurgence of local businesses catering to international visitors. Today, the market is a bustling center of commerce and culture, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that highlight both traditional Khmer culture and modern influences.