Siem Reap, the gateway city to the World Heritage site of Angkor Wat and Cambodia’s second-largest city, is a tourist hub that attracts visitors from all over the world. The city is filled with hotels and restaurants catering to tourists.
However, even in such a tourist-centric city, there’s a vibrant local life. The “Old Market” is where these locals shop for goods and food. Located in the city center, it’s a spot that tourists can also enjoy. It’s highly recommended for those who want to experience the local atmosphere.
This article shares the charm of the Old Market based on my visit in April 2023.
The Old Market: A Local’s Kitchen
The Old Market is situated between the popular Pub Street and the Siem Reap River. It features not only local shops but also cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops catering to tourists.
Location
If you view the market from Street 11, with Pub Street on your right and the river on your left, the front area has souvenir shops from the center to the right (towards the river) and food stalls from the center to the left. Souvenirs are also lined up along the river. Further inside, you’ll find more souvenir shops. Many of these shops sell similar items at varying prices, so it’s advisable to browse thoroughly and always negotiate prices before buying.
On the side opposite the river, and across the road, there are restaurants. Different establishments offer different menus, so look around if you have something specific in mind.
Internal Layout
The market can be entered from all four sides, with no single main entrance. The interior is divided into blocks, with several market eateries located behind the fresh food stalls. Another block contains shops selling daily necessities, spices, and condiments.
Most eateries close by late morning or around noon, but sweets and light snacks can be purchased from noon onwards. The tourist-oriented restaurants around the market operate all day until late at night.
Eatery Menu
In the mornings, the active stalls offer substantial meals like noodles, rice dishes, and porridge. By midday, the central stalls close, and only those on the periphery remain open. These peripheral stalls typically serve sweets like Vietnamese chè and light snacks such as spring rolls.
Additionally, vendors sometimes patrol the market aisles, selling inexpensive items like num pang, which is similar to Vietnamese banh mi.
How to Enjoy the Market
During my two-week stay in April 2023, my day began with breakfast at one of the market eateries. In the afternoon, I would have a cold sweet treat at the market before relaxing in an air-conditioned cafe outside the market.
I also bought souvenirs at the market. I visited several shops selling the same items to gauge prices, then negotiated before making a purchase.
Except for a few souvenir shops, most places close by evening, so you’ll have to dine at the surrounding restaurants at night.
Conclusion
Siem Reap is a global tourist city, and while tourist-focused businesses abound, it’s a great opportunity to experience local life too. The Old Market is an excellent spot to do just that. If you get the chance to visit Siem Reap, I highly recommend checking it out.
