Old Market — Local services in Siem Reap

The markets themselves are fine. The usual trinkets all coming from the same wholesalers so every shop has the same items. That's to be expected. What I am truly struggling with lately is a rush of horrible tuktuk drivers in this area, from price gouging to short changing to claiming they don't have change when u already saw it in their pocket, and now a rash of idiots claiming your money's no good because it's "damaged". They are hoping you won't have any other small bills so u will have to give them a larger bill. See photos of the little attempted scam they tried just an hour ago. Their own government got tired of this crap and started making public statements saying that damaged but intact bills WOULD be accepted and to stop trying to make issues of it because even their own government was sick of it. Tonight one tuktuk scammer absolutely refused to take the dollar shown in the pics below because he had seen that it was my last dollar and all I had left were 5's. I tried to give him Riel but he said he couldn't accept Riel (in Cambodia). He didn't suspect I had other 1's in another pocket, which I gave him and told him he was a crazy, scamming pice of junk. He putted away laughing hysterically. I've lived in nearly every country in southeast Asia for multiple decades. These dirty little scammers in cambodia are the worst. It's a problem in roughly one out of...

Overwhelming but Authentic — Tread Carefully

We visited Phsar Chas during the rainy season and found it a bit too intense for our taste. Inside, it was extremely hot—all that humidity and crowding made it uncomfortable. With vendors constantly vying for attention—some almost too pushy—it felt overwhelming, not the charming hustle we expected .

We didn’t eat there, so I can’t comment on the food or food court, but the mix of souvenir stalls and wet-market sections looked very busy. Based on other reviews, early morning (around 7–8 AM) is a better time to visit to avoid the heat and the worst of the crowds ().

🔍 Tips to Consider • Go early: Vendor activity peaks early and the roof offers little relief later in the day . • Stay cool: The heat during rainy months can be intense. • Brace for crowds: Expect a busy, bustling atmosphere with enthusiastic vendors everywhere .

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In summary: Phsar Chas offers a genuine glimpse into Khmer market life, but be ready for heat, crowds, and persistent sales tactics. It might be better in the calm of early morning—otherwise, it may feel too...

A Must-Visit for Authentic Cambodian Culture!**

The Old Market (Phsar Chas) in Siem Reap is a vibrant and bustling place that offers a true taste of local life. From fresh produce and exotic spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs, this market has it all. The atmosphere is lively, and the vendors are friendly—many are happy to chat and share stories if you take the time to engage.

What I loved most was the food section, where you can try delicious Cambodian street food at unbeatable prices. The amok curry, grilled meats, and fresh tropical fruits are must-tries! Bargaining is expected, so don’t hesitate to negotiate politely for the best deals.

The market is centrally located, making it easy to explore after visiting nearby attractions like Pub Street. It can get crowded, especially in the evenings, but that just adds to the authentic experience.

Highly recommended for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Cambodian culture, support local vendors, and take home...