The experience of strolling around in Siem Reap night market is different from other daylight experiences with colorful displays, aromatic food stalls, and the gentle buzz of evening shoppers. Whether you’re hunting for authentic souvenirs or craving local delicacies, here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating Siem Reap’s most captivating night markets.
5 Best Siem Reap Night Markets You Must Visit When Coming
Below is top 5 night market you can not ignore when visiting Siem Reap, especially the first one:
Angkor Night Market
- Location: Off Sivatha Boulevard, Siem Reap
- Opening Hours: 4 PM – Midnight (Daily)
- Products: Traditional Khmer handicrafts, silk paintings, recycled products, stone carvings, local food, beverages
As Cambodia’s first night market, Angkor Night Market has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination. Housed in traditional bamboo huts spread across a beautifully landscaped garden, this market creates an atmospheric shopping experience unique to Siem Reap. Over 200 vendors showcase their wares here, with products ranging from intricately designed silk scarves to contemporary recycled accessories.
What sets this market apart is its dedication to preserving traditional Khmer craftsmanship while supporting local artisans. Visitors can spend hours exploring the interconnected walkways, discovering handmade jewelry, watching artists at work, or relaxing at one of the many massage parlors. The market’s proximity to Pub Street makes it an ideal starting point for your evening adventures.
Old Market (Phsar Chas)
- Location: Psar Chas Road, Central Siem Reap
- Opening Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM (Daily)
- Products: Fresh produce, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, local food, spices
The Old Market stands as the beating heart of Siem Reap’s local commerce. During evening hours, this traditional market transforms into a bustling hub where tourists and locals alike gather to shop and dine. Unlike other markets, Phsar Chas offers a more authentic glimpse into everyday Cambodian life.
The market’s central food court is a paradise for adventurous food lovers. Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Khmer soups to exotic delicacies like spiced frogs and grilled fish. The surrounding stalls offer an extensive selection of affordable textiles, branded clothing replicas, and locally made crafts, making it perfect for budget-conscious shoppers.
Angkor Handicraft Association
- Location: Road 60, Traing Village
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (Daily)
- Products: Handwoven silk, silverware, stone and bronze statues, paintings, handmade bags
This market stands out for its commitment to authentic Cambodian craftsmanship. Unlike other markets, here you can watch skilled artisans create their masterpieces in real-time. The market features 20 carefully curated stalls, each representing different traditional Khmer crafts.
What makes this market special is its fair-trade focus – all profits go directly to the artisans and their communities. Visitors can learn about traditional crafting techniques, interact with local artists, and purchase high-quality, certified authentic Cambodian handicrafts. The prices might be higher than other markets, but the quality and ethical shopping experience justify the cost.
Noon Night Market
- Location: Vithey Charles de Gaulle, Khum Slorkram
- Opening Hours: Noon – Midnight (Daily)
- Products: Fair-trade souvenirs, handicrafts, traditional food, massage services
Tucked between Sivutha Boulevard and Angkor Night Market, Noon Night Market offers a more relaxed shopping atmosphere. The market’s walkways, decorated with traditional silk lamps and fans, create a magical evening ambiance. What sets this market apart is its social responsibility – 10% of all profits support a local orphanage.
The market excels in its food offerings, with the adjacent Bistro Khmer Restaurant serving authentic Cambodian dishes like fish amok and lok lak. After shopping, visitors can unwind with a traditional Khmer massage or enjoy imported beers and cocktails in the market’s peaceful setting.
Fair Trade Village
- Location: Street 27, Achar Sva St
- Opening Hours: Noon – 10 PM (Daily)
- Products: High-quality clothing, cosmetics, jewelry, paintings, toys, Sombai rice spirits
The Fair Trade Village, also known as the Made in Cambodia Market, represents the premium end of Siem Reap’s night markets. While prices are higher than other markets, the quality of products justifies the cost. This market is particularly known for its unique offerings, including locally made cosmetics and the famous Sombai rice spirits infused with traditional Khmer ingredients.
The market’s spacious layout and well-organized stalls make shopping here a pleasant experience. Vendors are knowledgeable about their products and can share interesting stories about their creations. This is the perfect place to find high-quality, authentic Cambodian products worth investing in.
>> Maybe will helpful for you to lost in Siem Reap: 15 Things to do in Siem Reap – Beside visiting Angkor Wat
Extra Tips for Bargaining
Navigating Siem Reap’s night markets requires some preparation and understanding of local shopping culture. Here are essential tips to enhance your market experience:
Best Time to Visit
- Early evening (4-6 PM) offers the best selection of goods with fewer crowds
- After 8 PM, food vendors offer better deals on meals
- Weekday evenings are generally less crowded than weekends
Currency & Payment Tips
- US dollars are widely accepted and preferred
- $1 = approximately 4,000 Riel
- Keep small US dollar bills ($1-$5) for easier transactions
- Expect change less than $1 to be given in Riel
- Many vendors don’t accept credit cards, so carry cash
Price Guidelines
- Initial prices are typically marked up 50-100%
- For textiles (like scarves), expect to pay:
- Basic quality: $1-3
- Medium quality: $3-5
- High quality: $5-7
- Buy multiple items from one vendor for better discounts
- If a vendor quickly accepts your first counter-offer, you might have started too high
Bargaining Strategy
- Start at 40-50% of the initial asking price
- Walk away if the price isn’t right – vendors often call you back
- Avoid showing too much interest in an item
- Be extra careful with “special” or “last-minute” deals
- Don’t bargain if you’re not seriously interested in buying
Shopping Etiquette
- Always keep a friendly, respectful attitude
- Never get aggressive or show frustration
- It’s okay to say “no thank you” and move on
- Some photo-worthy stalls may charge a small fee ($0.5) if you don’t purchase anything
- Thank vendors even if you don’t buy anything
Quality Checks
- For silk items: real silk burns clean, fake silk melts
- Check stitching quality on clothing and bags
- Inspect wood carvings for cracks or repairs
- Test zippers and clasps on bags
- Look for “Made in Cambodia” labels on authentic crafts
Additional Services
- Massage services (foot, fish spa) cost around $1-2 for 10-15 minutes
- Consider ending your shopping with a relaxing massage
- Some vendors offer free shipping for larger purchases
- Ask about product care instructions for delicate items
What to Avoid
- Don’t start bargaining unless you’re genuinely interested
- Avoid comparing prices loudly between stalls
- Don’t rush into purchases – take time to compare
- Be wary of extremely cheap “authentic” antiques
- Avoid shopping when tired or frustrated
Remember, bargaining in Siem Reap’s markets is part of the cultural experience. The goal isn’t just to get the lowest price, but to engage in a respectful exchange that benefits both parties. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find shopping in Siem Reap’s night markets to be both enjoyable and rewarding.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Siem Reap’s night markets offer an unforgettable shopping experience. From traditional handicrafts to modern adaptations of Khmer design, these markets showcase the best of Cambodia’s creative spirit. Take your time, embrace the local culture, and enjoy the unique atmosphere that makes Siem Reap’s night markets truly special.
>> Can not find the best time to visit Siem Reap? Read more: Siem Reap weather – Best time to visit Siem Reap
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
