Planning a Family Trip to Siem Reap: Things to Know Before You Go

You’ve heard of Angkor Wat. You’ve seen the pictures, and know you can find it in Siem Reap. And now you’re wondering: is Siem Reap actually doable and fun with kids?

Siem Reap is a fantastic family travel destination with lots of things to see and do, but planning a family trip to Siem Reap takes a bit of prep.

Finding kid-friendly food and family-friendly accommodation in the right area isn’t always straightforward. And weather wise there are months you should definitely avoid. You might melt if you visit in April or May.

Having spent a total of almost 2 weeks in Siem Reap with children I know what kind of info other traveling parents can’t do without. 

Like needing an Angkor Pass, the best time to visit and what to avoid while there. But also how to get to Siem Reap and how to get around.

Is Siem Reap Safe for Families?

Yes. Siem Reap is one of the safest cities in Cambodia and a well-established family destination.

Violent crime against tourists is rare. That said, there are a few things worth knowing before you arrive.

Petty theft is the most common issue. Keep an eye on bags and phones in crowded areas like Pub Street, the Old Market, and around the Angkor temples. Nothing that would stop you from going, this happens in cities all over the world.

Scams are more common than theft. The most frequent one you’ll encounter are tuk-tuk drivers taking longer routes to bump up the fare. 

And another common one is the baby milk scam, where someone approaches you with a baby, asking you to buy formula from a nearby shop rather than giving cash. It sounds reasonable, but the shop charges inflated tourist prices and once you leave, the scammer returns the formula and splits the profit with the shop owner. 

One thing that gets flagged in the news but rarely affects visitors: there is a border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand in a very specific stretch near Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces, about 250km north of Siem Reap.

The city, the Angkor temples, and all tourist areas are completely unaffected. Just avoid crossing into Cambodia overland via the Poipet border crossing with Thailand. If you’re traveling from Thailand, fly instead.

Traffic is chaotic by Western standards. There are few traffic lights and road rules are loosely interpreted.

Just cross streets carefully, hold your kids’ hands, and you’ll be fine. We never felt unsafe on the roads, just alert. 

We even regularly hopped on a bike, just looking around a bit more than you usually would, before crossing the street.

Why Siem Reap is a Great Choice for a Family Visit

If you’re planning a family road trip through Cambodia, Siem Reap deserves more than a quick stop.

Cambodia is quickly becoming an increasingly popular Asian travel destination. Siem Reap is the capital of Siem Reap Province and the most visited city in the country, and it’s easy to see why. There are lots of things to do in Siem Reap with kids, like exploring Angkor Wat.

The crowds aren’t nearly as heavy as other Southeast Asian cities, which is why a visit to Siem Reap can be a very relaxing family city trip.

Even at Angkor Wat there are times during the day when you can explore this marvel in relative peace.

The city center is bustling but still gives the vibe of a town. When you rent a bike you can spend one minute in a busy street and the next in the jungle.

Siem Reap simply is a fantastic destination for families, offering a rich cultural experience.

The locals are warm, friendly, and often go out of their way to engage with children, making it easy for families to feel right at home. 

In every restaurant we ate, kids were doted on. They brought drawing paper and color pencils. Gave them a piece of fruit while they were waiting. It makes waiting for your dinner a lot easier, right?

Whether you’re strolling through the vibrant markets or visiting a local restaurant, you’ll find that Cambodians love interacting with kids, often offering up a smile or engaging in conversation.

Siem Reap offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants. Many places go out of their way to cater to families, with family rooms and babysitting services in hotels and kid-friendly menus in restaurants.

Siem Reap with Toddlers and Babies

Parents traveling with babies and toddlers will find Siem Reap surprisingly accommodating and easy to navigate.

The laid-back pace of the city makes it less overwhelming for little ones, and many attractions and restaurants are designed with families in mind.

You’ll find that the majority of public places are stroller-friendly, and when they’re not, the locals are always ready to lend a helping hand.

With one big exception though: the Angkor temples. A baby carrier is essential when exploring the temples of Angkor with a baby or toddler.

We saw a couple with 2 kids in separate strollers. They couldn’t navigate with them through the complexes and the father clearly had had enough.

The kids waited with mom, while he walked all the way back to the entrance of Angkor Wat to leave them there. I hope they were still there when they went back for them. And they had to explore with a baby in one parent’s arms and a toddler in the other.

Tuk-tuks, called a remorque in Cambodia, is the primary mode of transportation in Siem Reap. We expected to rely on Grab but ended up taking tuk-tuks almost everywhere because our son loved them so much he treated every ride like an attraction.

Most tuk tuk drivers are more than happy to help families with their gear, whether that’s folding up a stroller or securing a car seat.

Plus, the relatively short travel distances between major sights mean less time in transit, which is always a win when traveling with toddlers.

There are also plenty of convenience stores with baby essentials like diapers and formula, so parents don’t need to worry about overpacking.

All of this makes Siem Reap a stress-free destination for families traveling with babies and toddlers.

Things to Do In Siem Reap for Families

Siem Reap is the gateway to the temples of Angkor. Exploring them is one of the best things to do in Cambodia. They’re allowed to climb on some of the ruins, just not on religious structures like Buddhas or shrines.

Other great things to do with kids in Siem Reap are zip lining, cooking and pottery classes and a ride in a hot air balloon to spot the temples of Angkor from the air.

Paying in Siem Reap

ATMs offer both US dollars and Cambodian Riel.

In tourist areas, USD is widely accepted for bigger purchases like hotels, tours and the Angkor Pass. But for smaller transactions, street food, markets and tuk-tuks, you’ll need Riel.

In practice, you’ll collect Riel naturally as change throughout your trip. Don’t try to exchange dollars into Riel directly at an ATM or exchange counter, you’ll get a worse rate. Just spend both as you go.

And on top of that it’s very difficult to know if you’re being scammed when Riel and dollars are being mixed. We know that from experience.

Cards are accepted at most hotels, mid-range and upmarket restaurants, and tourist-facing shops. Markets and street vendors are still cash only. ATM fees run about $3-6 per transaction, so withdraw larger amounts to keep costs down. A travel card like Wise will save you money on exchange rates and fees compared to a regular bank card.

Health and Vaccinations for Siem Reap

Commonly recommended vaccinations for Siem Reap include Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Japanese Encephalitis.

Mosquitoes are the main health nuisance in Siem Reap. Dengue fever is present in the city year-round, with higher risk during the rainy season.

Pack a good DEET-based repellent and use it every day, especially at dawn and dusk.

Malaria risk in Siem Reap city and the Angkor temple complex is considered very low, but it’s worth discussing with your doctor.

Don’t drink tap water in Siem Reap. Stick to bottled water, and use it for brushing teeth too. We used our LARQ water bottle to purify and filter the water.

At the market, only buy fruits you can peel yourself.

Pharmacies are easy to find in the city center and well-stocked for basics. For anything more serious, the Royal Angkor International Hospital is the most reliable option in Siem Reap.

And make sure you have solid travel insurance for your family before you fly.

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Buying Souvenirs and Food from Children

In Siem Reap, it’s common to encounter children selling souvenirs, snacks, and trinkets, especially around popular tourist areas like Pub Street, the most visited Angkor temples, and the Old Market.

These children are often very persistent, approaching tourists with charming smiles and offers of handmade bracelets, postcards, or cold drinks.

It’s hard to miss them, as they tend to gather where tourists are most concentrated, hoping to make a sale.

While it might seem harmless to buy a small item from them, these children are often part of a larger issue in Cambodia.

The problem with buying from children on the streets is that it encourages their caretakers to keep them out of school, relying on them as a source of income instead of prioritizing their education.

When children miss school to work, they lose out on critical learning opportunities that could improve their futures, locking them into a cycle of poverty. Child labor also deprives them of the chance to simply be kids.

While it’s important not to buy from these children, you can still engage with them in a kind and respectful way. Smile, acknowledge them, and perhaps have your children play a simple game with them or share a friendly conversation.

By showing kindness without supporting their sales, you can still have a positive interaction that doesn’t encourage child labor.

When to Visit Siem Reap

Spring (March – May)

Cambodia is hot all year round. It doesn’t have a real winter. In March temperatures get above 30° Celsius. April and May are unbearably hot, around 40° and sometimes even higher.

And it’s worth knowing that spring temperatures in Siem Reap have been trending hotter in recent years due to climate change. If you’re traveling with young kids, April and May are genuinely tough, and I would definitely not recommend it.

While the heat can be intense, this season still offers some unique advantages for family trips. One of the biggest perks is that it’s less crowded than peak tourist months, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the temples and attractions.

With fewer tourists, you’ll also find better deals on accommodations, which is ideal for budget-conscious families.

Additionally, this is the time leading up to Khmer New Year in April, a significant and vibrant celebration with kid-friendly cultural events, parades, and performances that provide a deep insight into Cambodian traditions.

However, the scorching temperatures during this period may be difficult for young children to handle, especially when visiting outdoor attractions like Angkor Wat.

You’ll need to plan your outings for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat.

Make sure to stay hydrated, seek shade, and take frequent breaks if you’re traveling with little ones.

Summer (June – August)

Summer in Siem Reap is the rainy season. The lush greens all over Cambodia are beautiful. It’s a quieter time, with less visitors and more families who can only travel during the summer holiday.

Downpour generally won’t last the entire day, but it can happen. The rains typically come in short, heavy bursts in the afternoons, leaving the mornings dry for sightseeing. Although rain showers are brief, they can disrupt plans, especially if you’re hoping for a full day outdoors with your family.

During the rainy season, heavy rainfall results in extremely muddy roads you can’t enter. Flooding also occurs regularly during this season. Muddy paths can also be challenging for young kids and strollers.

While the temperatures are still warm (averaging around 30°C), the rain cools things down slightly, making it more comfortable than the scorching spring.

Another bonus is that this season is still relatively low in tourists, meaning you can explore with fewer crowds. Despite this, Tonlé Sap Lake is thriving during the rainy season, and boat tours are available for families to spot wildlife, including birds and the famous floating villages.

While ethical animal encounters may be more limited due to the weather, the vibrant landscape allows for sightings of various species in their natural habitats without disturbing them.

Autumn (September – November)

Autumn continues the rainy season, but the showers begin to taper off towards the end of October, leaving behind cool and refreshing weather.

This is a wonderful time to visit for families who prefer milder temperatures, with highs around 28°C.

The temples and surrounding areas are still lush and green, making for beautiful photo opportunities and fun nature walks for kids. Plus, Pchum Ben, a Cambodian religious festival, takes place in late September or early October, offering a unique opportunity to witness cultural events and ceremonies that families may find fascinating.

The downside of autumn, particularly in September, is that heavy rains can still cause flooding in some areas, making travel tricky, especially with young children. However, by November, conditions become drier and more comfortable.

If you’re interested in ethical wildlife experiences, this is a great time to visit the Phnom Kulen National Park, where you can enjoy nature walks and spot wild animals such as birds and butterflies, monkeys and maybe even an elephant, in their natural habitat. Remember, no interaction is encouraged, just observing the animals in their environment.

Winter (December – February)

Winter, from December to February, is the peak tourist season in Siem Reap, with cooler, dry weather making it the most comfortable time to visit.

Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, perfect for exploring temples, markets, and outdoor activities without overheating.

It’s a great time for family travel, as children can enjoy long days outside without battling extreme heat or rain.

The bustling holiday season also brings festive events and performances, and families can enjoy traditional dance shows, markets, and other activities suited for all ages.

However, the downside is that this is the busiest time of year, so you’ll likely encounter larger crowds at the temples and other popular attractions. Prices for accommodations and flights also tend to be higher, so it’s wise to book early to get the best deals.

Despite the crowds, this is an ideal time for ethical wildlife experiences, as the dry season attracts various bird species to Tonlé Sap Lake and the surrounding countryside, allowing families to observe them in their natural environment.

We visited Siem Reap in December and experienced temperatures between 25° and 30° Celsius. We did all the exploring in the morning and spent afternoons somewhere indoors and at the hotel pool.

Food in Siem Reap

Cambodian cuisine is flavorful but not too spicy, with plenty of kid-friendly options like fresh fruit, rice dishes, and noodle soups. Eating out is an adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family, and the abundance of fresh, healthy ingredients means there’s something for even the pickiest of eaters.

As for food, most restaurants are more than happy to adjust dishes for sensitive taste buds, and you’ll find plenty of fresh fruit, mild soups, and simple rice dishes to keep toddlers happy.

Some of the top dishes to get in Siem Reap are Amok (fish with coconut milk with lemongrass, turmeric and kaffir lime leaves steamed inside banana leaves), Bai Sach Chrouk (grilled pork and rice marinated in garlic and soy sauce) and Lok Lak (stir-fried beef with onions and tomatoes in a peppery sauce with rice and a fried egg).

We had the latter with ants on them, but that was notified on the menu. It wasn’t something we saw anywhere else. Our son was horrified about our meal choice. He went with Bai Sach Chrouk, his favorite dish in Siem Reap.

Khmer noodles (Nom Banh Chok) are rice noodles in a green curry sauce made with fish and fresh herbs. This dish is often available in a “light” version for kids.

The Bai Sach Chrouk and Kuy Teav (a noodle soup with bean sprouts, lime and with or without chili) are great options for kids. Our 8yo couldn’t get enough from the Bai Sach Chrouk and if that wasn’t available he enjoyed a bowl of Kuy Teav.

While all these dishes are not local, but Cambodian, Siem Reap is known to make the best Amok in the country.

Are your kids picky eaters? There’s western style food everywhere, like pizza, pasta, burgers, chicken nuggets, fries and grilled cheese sandwiches. At the market you can get lots of lovely and fresh fruits to make sure they also get their vitamins in. Just make sure that you buy fruits you can peel yourselves, to avoid tummy aches from the unclean water that’s been used to wash them.

If anyone in your family has a food allergy, print or save an allergy card in Khmer before you go. English is widely spoken in tourist restaurants, but cross-contamination awareness is not always the same as back home. A written card in the local language removes any room for misunderstanding and gives you real peace of mind.

Where to eat in Siem Reap with kids

Kameng Leng | € | Check Ratings

Located in the Wat Bo area, this restaurant caters to families with babies and toddlers. Parents can enjoy a relaxing meal while their little ones play.

The playground is designed to stimulate creativity with wooden educational toys, while the menu is packed with fresh, local, and healthy food.

Chocolate Gardens | € – €€ | Check Ratings

If your kids love open spaces and playgrounds, this is a great choice. Chocolate Road Garden offers a safe space for children to run around and enjoy a croissant or ice cream, while adults can savor coffee and eggs benedict or a pastry.

Don’t expect any chocolate though, the reason for its name is that this place is located on Chocolate Road. Not because they focus on dishes with chocolate.

The Green Market | € – €€ – €€€ (depending on the vendor)

Located near Pub Street, the Green Market is a food hall that offers a variety of food stalls with dishes from different cuisines (like Japanese, Italian, Cambodian and North-American) making it easy to please picky eaters.

There’s plenty of space for kids to roam around, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for families who want a variety of food options in one place​.

Viva Mexican & Khmer Restaurant | €€ – €€€ | Check Ratings

With two locations near Pub Street, Viva is popular among families for its mix of Khmer and Mexican dishes.

Kids will love the pizza and sombreros to try on (at least our son did), and the restaurant’s fun, colorful atmosphere makes it an enjoyable dining experience for the whole family.​

Banlle Vegetarian Restaurant | € – €€ | Check Ratings

This eco-conscious restaurant is a fantastic option for families looking for healthy, vegetarian options.

Located in a tranquil garden setting, it offers a range of organic, kid-friendly dishes like vegetable amok and fresh smoothies.

The peaceful atmosphere and spacious outdoor seating make it easy for families with young children to enjoy.

Note that opening hours are limited and the restaurant is closed one day a week. Check their Facebook page for current hours before you go.

Where to Stay in Siem Reap with Kids

Siem Reap offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations. From luxurious resorts with sprawling pools to charming boutique hotels with spacious family suites, there are family friendly hotels in Siem Reap in all the different areas that cater to different budgets.

Many places go out of their way to cater to families, offering amenities like kid-friendly menus and even special activities designed just for children.

Siem Reap’s accommodations are also highly geared towards families with young children. Many hotels provide cribs and babysitting services.

When planning a family trip to Siem Reap, location is key. One of the best areas to stay is the French Quarter, which is centrally located and close to attractions like Pub Street and the Night Market. This area is great for families who want to be in the heart of the action, with easy access to restaurants, shops, and activities.

If you prefer a more peaceful environment, the Wat Bo Road area offers a quieter setting while still being close to the main sights, making it easy to escape the hustle and bustle while staying family-friendly.

For a more authentic experience surrounded by nature, consider staying in the Angkor Wat Archaeological Park area, where several high-end resorts offer tranquil surroundings just a short distance from the temples. That’s what we did and we loved staying in the jungle.

Top Places to Stay in Siem Reap with Kids

Here are some of the top places to stay in Siem Reap with family. There’s something for everyone, because I opted for hotels in different price ranges.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: €€€  | Area: French Quarter | Check Ratings

The luxurious Park Hyatt Siem Reap is known for its elegant design and central location, making it convenient for families who want to explore Siem Reap’s vibrant heart.

Once voted 4th best hotel in the world (in 2022, but still worth a mention, don’t you think?), parents will appreciate the kids’ pool, family rooms, and babysitting services, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay.

Anantara Angkor Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: €€€  | Area: Near Angkor Archeological Park | Check Ratings

Anantara Angkor Resort  is just a 15-minute drive from Angkor Wat temple complex, providing a perfect jungle retreat for families.

Known for its family suites, private pools, and cultural experiences, Anantara offers a combination of relaxation and adventure for parents and kids alike​.

Indra Angkor Residence ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: €  | Area: Siem Reap River | Check Ratings

Located near the river, the Indra Angkor Residence features spacious family suites and a relaxing outdoor pool, making it a great mid-range choice for families.

The peaceful environment in a centrally located hotel makes it ideal for both relaxation and exploration​.

This is the absolute best budget option with great amenities. Being a 4 star hotel it’s unbelievable that prices start at around €20 per night.

Passport Villa ⭐️⭐️

Price: €  | Area: Night Market Street | Check Ratings

The budget-friendly Passport Villa (formerly known as Passport Hostel) offers family rooms with a queen and a bunk bed, and an outdoor pool, located just a short walk from the Night Market.

It’s a great choice for families looking to stay central at a lower cost​.

Peak Elite Boutique ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Price: €€  | Area: City center | Check Ratings

Known for its stylish yet affordable family rooms, Peak Elite Boutique offers a comfortable stay with easy access to the main attractions.

Families love the outdoor pool and spacious rooms, making it a top choice for budget-conscious travelers​.

Top Tours in Siem Reap

Getting to Siem Reap

Fly

The Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI) is located about 50km southeast of the city, so factor in roughly 45 to 60 minutes by car to get to your hotel.

Use PassApp, Grab, or your hotel shuttle on arrival to avoid overcharging.

You can fly here directly from Ho Chi Minh City (about 1h15min), Hanoi (about 1h45min), Bangkok (about 1h15min), and from Cambodia’s capital Phnom Penh (about 1h).

When flying domestically or within Southeast Asia your best option is to book your tickets from 12Go. They often have the best deals and while they keep expanding their portfolio, their offers are still the best within Asia.

Book regional and domestic flight tickets to Siem Reap here

There are no direct flights available to Siem Reap from countries outside of Asia. So know that you’d have to deal with at least one layover.

Some flights from Middle Eastern countries like the United Arab Emirates or Qatar land in capital city Phnom Penh, but flying into both cities internationally is quite expensive.

Getting around Siem Reap

Private Driver

You could hire a private driver to bring you to all the different sites. If you want to hire a private driver for a few days, you should contact them beforehand to discuss all the sites you want to see and set a price.

There are also drivers that are licensed guides, you can book a tour to visit some of the Angkor temples with kids, including transport by car. Let the driver drop you off at the official Angkor Ticket center, before you start exploring, because you need a ticket to check out the temples of Angkor.

Rental Car

You can rent a car and drive around Siem Reap. If you only stay in the center you don’t need it, but it might be a good idea if you want to explore the Angkor Archeological Park.

It’s quite the distance between the different temples of Angkor. So a mode of transport is needed. We opted for the bikes our accommodation provided, others hailed rides, hired a remorque driver for the day or used a car with a driver of they drove themselves.

It’s safe to drive around the archeological park, but it can be mayhem in the center of Siem Reap, so take note of that.

Get your rental car here

Remorque

In the center of Siem Reap and near the entrance of the Angkor Archeological Park you’ll find lots of remorques, known all over the world as tuk tuk.

Find an English speaking driver and see if you can make a deal. One remorque can fit 2 adults and 2 children max.

Bicycle

Our favorite was biking around Siem Reap. In fact, it’s such a great and convenient thing to do, that we added it to our list of best things to do in Siem Reap.

With your own bikes you’ve the freedom of leaving and going whenever you want.

Ride-Hailing Apps

If haggling over a tuk-tuk fare with tired kids in tow isn’t your idea of fun, download Grab or PassApp before you arrive.

Both operate in Siem Reap and work exactly like you’d expect: you set the destination, you see the price upfront, and you don’t have to negotiate anything.

PassApp is the local Cambodian option and tends to have slightly better coverage around the city. Grab is the one you likely already have on your phone from elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

For families it’s a genuine game changer, especially for the airport transfer from SAI. It’s the easiest way to avoid the overcharging that tends to target arriving tourists.

Practical Tips for Siem Reap with Kids

A few things to know that will genuinely save you time and stress.

📳SIM card and connectivity. Skip buying a physical SIM at the airport. Get an eSIM before you leave home instead. It’s cheaper, activates instantly, and means you have data the moment you land. 

We like to use Airalo or Saily, depending on which one has the better offer.

🪫Electricity. Cambodia uses Type A, C, and G plugs at 230V. If you’re traveling from the US, pack an adapter. Most hotels have a mix of socket types so you’ll likely be fine, but it’s worth throwing a universal adapter in your bag.

💵Tipping. Tipping isn’t mandatory in Cambodia but it’s appreciated. For tuk-tuk and remorque drivers, around ៛4,000 (about €0.90/$1 USD) per trip is a kind gesture. At local restaurants, leaving ៛4,000 to ៛8,000 (about €0.90 to €1.80/$1 to $2 USD) is plenty. For hotel staff who help with luggage or go out of their way, ៛4,000 (about €0.90/$1 USD) is the norm.

🥼Temple dress code. The Angkor temples require covered shoulders and knees for everyone, kids included. Lightweight cotton cover-ups work well in the heat. Pack them in your day bag so you’re not scrambling at the entrance.

📲Useful apps to download before you fly. Grab and PassApp for transport, Google Translate with Khmer downloaded for offline use, and the Angkor Pass app for buying your Angkor temple tickets in advance.

FAQ

Don’t have time to read this Siem Reap travel guide? Read this faq to get answers to the most common questions about a family trip to Siem Reap and save this post for later.

Find Out What to Do in Siem Reap with Kids

Siem Reap is one of those cities that keeps surprising you. How about this: you booked transportation to Siem Reap, the logistics are sorted, now the fun part starts.

There’s a lot to do in Siem Reap. Of course there’s the temples of Angkor. 

But there’s much to do beyond the temples, and some of it will genuinely blow your kids’ minds.

From zip lining above the jungle to biking through rice fields and catching a circus show without the scary clowns, Siem Reap delivers on every level.

👉Check out the best things to do with your family in Siem Reap

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