Visit Siem Reap vs Singapore: 10 Stunning Photo Spots Compared
Choosing between Siem Reap and Singapore can be difficult—especially if you’re an avid photographer or Instagram enthusiast. Both destinations offer an incredible mix of cultural landmarks, architectural wonders, and natural beauty. But which one has the edge when it comes to photogenic charm? In this article, we compare 10 stunning photo spots in Siem Reap vs Singapore, so you can decide which destination deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Angkor Wat (Siem Reap) vs Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)
Angkor Wat is arguably the most iconic temple complex in Cambodia—and one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. The best shots are taken at sunrise, when the sky turns pink behind its silhouette.
On the flip side, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is equally majestic, especially at night. The rooftop infinity pool offers a skyline that screams luxury. For modern architecture fans, this one’s a dream come true.
Winner: *Tie– Angkor Wat wins for ancient beauty, Marina Bay Sands for futuristic elegance.
2. Ta Prohm Temple (Siem Reap) vs Gardens by the Bay (Singapore)
Ta Prohm, known as the “Tomb Raider Temple,” features massive tree roots engulfing ruined stone walls. It’s dramatic, moody, and absolutely stunning in monochrome or high contrast filters.
Gardens by the Bay, with its Supertree Grove and biodomes, offers a futuristic garden vibe that lights up at night. It’s one of the most popular Instagram spots in Southeast Asia.
Winner: *Singapore– Gardens by the Bay offers more versatility and color for varied photography styles.
3. Bayon Temple (Siem Reap) vs Merlion Park (Singapore)
The Bayon Temple, famous for its many serene stone faces, offers a unique opportunity to play with shadows, textures, and historical narrative in your photos.
Merlion Park is ideal for cityscape photography, especially with the iconic Merlion statue and Marina Bay skyline in the background.
Winner: *Siem Reap– Bayon’s mysterious charm and intricate carvings make it a top pick for history buffs.
4. Banteay Srei (Siem Reap) vs Haji Lane (Singapore)
Banteay Srei, a lesser-known temple, is made of pink sandstone and filled with detailed carvings. The color alone is enough to make it Instagram-worthy.Haji Lane in Singapore, on the other hand, is a burst of modern street art, indie boutiques, and vibrant facades. It’s a haven for urban photographers.
Winner: *Singapore– Haji Lane brings bold colors and edgy vibes, perfect for fashion or lifestyle shoots.
5. Tonlé Sap Floating Village (Siem Reap) vs Clarke Quay (Singapore)
The floating village on Tonlé Sap Lake offers a raw, cultural photography experience. You’ll capture stilt houses, boats, and local life—all framed by nature.
Clarke Quay is an exciting riverside area, alive with color and lights. It’s perfect for nighttime long-exposure shots and architectural reflections.
Winner: *Siem Reap– Tonlé Sap delivers authentic, story-driven images.
6. Phnom Bakheng Sunset (Siem Reap) vs Sentosa Island Beaches (Singapore)
Phnom Bakheng offers a high vantage point to capture the sun setting behind the temples—a classic Siem Reap moment.
Singapore’s Sentosa Island offers white sand beaches and luxurious resort settings. It’s great for laid-back, tropical photos.
Winner: *Siem Reap– The temple-on-a-hill with sunset makes for a more dramatic backdrop.
7. Preah Khan Temple (Siem Reap) vs Jewel Changi Airport (Singapore)
Preah Khan is a sprawling temple with crumbling walls and overgrown trees. It feels like a lost world—a dream for moody, cinematic photography.
Jewel Changi Airport boasts the world’s tallest indoor waterfall. With its futuristic design and natural elements, it’s a favorite among influencers.
Winner: *Singapore– Jewel Changi is jaw-dropping and instantly recognizable.
8. Siem Reap Local Markets vs Chinatown (Singapore)
Siem Reap’s markets are chaotic, colorful, and filled with vibrant textures. From spices to handmade crafts, every corner begs to be photographed.
Singapore’s Chinatown offers vivid lanterns, traditional architecture, and bustling scenes. It’s more polished but equally vibrant.
Winner: *Singapore– Chinatown edges ahead with its lighting and organized visual appeal.
9. Cambodian Apsara Dance Performance vs Singapore Light Shows
An Apsara dance performance features ornate costumes, intricate movements, and traditional music—perfect for low-light performance photography.
Singapore’s light shows at Marina Bay and Gardens by the Bay are multimedia spectacles of lasers, music, and synchronized lighting.
Winner: *Singapore– The scale and clarity of Singapore’s light shows are easier to photograph and visually captivating.
10. Roluos Group Temples (Siem Reap) vs Singapore Botanic Gardens
The Roluos Group features early Khmer architecture with fewer tourists—perfect for wide-angle, contemplative shots of ancient structures.
Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers lush greenery, lakes, and photogenic pavilions.
Winner: *Singapore– The botanical garden is cleaner, greener, and offers seasonal flower shots year-round.
Conclusion: Which Destination Wins the Photography Game?
In the Visit Siem Reap vs Singapore showdown, it’s clear that both destinations shine in different photography styles.
Choose Siem Reap if you’re drawn to historical ruins, raw textures, and mystical atmospheres. It’s ideal for storytelling, moody edits, and nature-infused ancient architecture.
Choose Singapore if you love vibrant urban scenes, futuristic structures, and clean, curated aesthetics. It’s a playground for influencers, urban explorers, and luxury lovers.
Whether you’re using a DSLR or your phone camera, both locations are goldmines for stunning visuals. The best choice depends on your creative goals—and maybe, just maybe, it’s worth visiting both.
FAQs
1. Which destination is better for Instagram photography?
Singapore offers more colorful, clean, and diverse backdrops perfect for curated Instagram feeds. Siem Reap, while more rugged, offers deep storytelling value.
2. Are photography permits required in either city?
In general, both cities are photography-friendly. However, drone usage may require permits—especially near Angkor Wat and Marina Bay Sands.
3. Is it safe to take photos in public places in both cities?
Yes, both destinations are safe for photographers. Just be respectful of cultural or religious spaces, especially temples in Siem Reap.
4. When is the best time of year for photography in Siem Reap vs Singapore?
Siem Reap: November to February (dry and cooler).
Singapore: Year-round, but avoid the monsoon months (November–January).
5. Which city is better for low-light or night photography?
Singapore is better equipped with lighting, night shows, and modern infrastructure for low-light photography. Siem Reap is more limited once the sun sets.
