Images of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat are usually all the inspiration one needs to begin planning their South East Asian adventure. This ancient temple breaks records for being the largest Buddhist complex in the world. Travelers to Angkor Wat will be given the feeling of being Indiana Jones as they step into the temple’s crumbling buildings, overgrown with vines from the jungle.
While you may venture all the way to Angkor Wat to explore its vast corridors and shrines, you will have to sleep elsewhere. Siem Reap is a town which is used as the starting off point for tourists wanting to travel to this massive temple and surrounding areas.
With bars, restaurants, night markets, and even its own history separate from Angkor Wat, staying in Siem Reap is a trip within itself
Many travelers will probably go online and just book the best hostel or hotel they see. Little do they know that each neighborhood in Siem Reap has its own atmosphere and depending on how you like to travel, you should book accordingly.
We made finding the perfect place to stay in Siem Reap a breeze with our one-stop guide! Putting together a list which will have you staying in the best hotels in town!
Get ready to be swinging from vines, exploring ruins, or just partying, your adventure to Siem Reap starts here!
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Siem Reap
- Where to stay in Siem Reap for your first time? French Quarter
- Where to stay in Siem Reap close to everything? Taphul Village
- Where to stay in Siem Reap for nightlife? Old Market
- Best neighborhood in Siem Reap for families? Charles de Gaulle Boulevard
- Where to stay in Siem Reap on a budget? Wat Bo
- Where to stay in Siem Reap for couples? Sok San Road
- Best overlooked neighborhood in Siem Reap? Wat Damnak
Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Siem Reap.
Sam So Boutique Villa is a lavish hotel housed in an exquisitely designed villa. The boutique hotel provides a premium experience to its guests at super budget-friendly prices, making it great for those on a budget in Siem Reap.
A mid-range hotel in Siem Reap packed full of amazing facilities, this is a great place to stay in the city. In addition to its own pool, garden, bar, restaurant, and terrace, this hotel offers a plethora of other amenities that will amaze you throughout your stay.
At this grand 5-star hotel, you’ll be treated to the luxurious amenities throughout. The hotel’s restaurant, outdoor pool, wellness center, and bar all are lavishly designed and have special added touches for an extra special stay in the city.
7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Siem Reap
Here are your best neighborhoods in Siem Reap! With each district of the city different from the next, be sure to look for the one that fits how you like to travel!
Neighborhood #1 – The French Quarter
Best neighbourhood in Siem Reap for your first time!
(Photo Credit: https://suemtravels.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in the French Quarter – Look back into the past while viewing some of the centuries-old colonial architecture!
- BEST place to visit in the French Quarter – Explore the temple Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chom, located in downtown Siem Reap!
Striking that balance between having all the cultural relics in the city as well as some of the best bars and clubs in town. The French Quarter embodies everything that traveling through South East Asia is about! By day you will be wandering the halls of the museum but when night falls you will find yourself on the dancefloor!
With plenty of museums and temples, even without going to Angkor Wat you will find tons of beauty within the French Quarter. Top it off with a location in the heart of the city, nothing will ever be too far of a walk from your hotel or hostel!
- Walk along the riverfront and catch the sunset!
- Look at the architecture of the Royal Residence!
- Check out the Angkor National Museum!
- Find souvenirs and local delicacies at the night market!
Best Budget Hotel in the French Quarter
Angkor Holiday Hotel
Angkor Holiday Hotel features luxurious amenities at budget-friendly prices including a spa, an outdoor pool, a hot tub along with a tasty restaurant. The hotel also features a 24-hour reception and a helpful tour desk which both come in very handy on a trip to Siem Reap.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in the French Quarter
Koulen Hotel
With everything jam-packed into Koulen Hotel, on many days you will find yourself not wanting to part from the luxury of this 5-star hotel. After waking up to a complimentary buffet breakfast, take a dip in their relaxing outdoor pool. You can even further pamper yourself at Koulen Hotel’s own spa and relax in their private garden. Being just a short walk from downtown, you are sure to experience only the best of what Siem Reap has to offer!
Best Luxury Hotel in the French Quarter
J7 Hotel
You are going to feel just like a king or queen when staying at J7 Hotel. Located right next to the Royal Residence, one can’t help but feel that some of that luxury has made its way to this hotel! With its own restaurant, outdoor pool wellness center, and bar, you will feel all the stress you have brought over from home suddenly wash away! With a hotel bursting at the seams with things to do, you may not even find time to leave the hotel!
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Neighborhood #2 – Taphul Village
Where to stay in Siem Reap close to everything!
(Photo Credit: https://www.zenhotels.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Taphul Village – Be within minutes of all the best night markets and bars!
- BEST place to visit in Taphul Village – Explore traditional Cambodia at the Cambodian Cultural Village!
In Taphul Village you will be located minutes away from the heart of Siem Reap while still having all the relaxation and silence of the suburbs. This quiet neighborhood is your oasis in downtown Siem Reap, keeping all of the best bars and restaurants close by.
Around Taphul Village you will find loads of cafes, restaurants, and temples to explore before heading out to some of the more iconic temples further away. Being nearby both the highway and airport getting from place to place will be a sinch!
- Rent a bike and explore both the city and the outlying villages!
- Grab a snack and relax at the Fresh Fruit Factory and enjoy some delicious desserts!
- Go shopping or stock up on snacks at the Lucky Mall!
- Check out some of the many museums and temples in nearby neighborhoods!
Best Budget Hotel in Taphul Village
Siemreap Rooms Boutique
Siemreap Rooms Boutique has a sought-after location in the city just a 5-minute drive from the Old Market, Pub Street, and Angkor Night Market along with being just a 10-minute walk to Angkor National Museum. The hotel also has fantastic on-site amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, and a pool-side bar along with comfortable and deluxe rooms.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Taphul Village
The Thirdfold Residence
The pool and garden in this hotel are more than enough on its own to have travelers quickly pressing that “reserve” button. Other than the inviting outdoor pool, this budget luxury hotel also comes with its own restaurant, serving any dish that your heart desires. With its own bars and cozy rooms, you will be wanting to call The Thridfold Residence your home for as long as you possibly can!
Best Luxury Hotel in Taphul Village
Lotus Blanc Resort
Right smack in the middle from the airport, Angkor Wat, and downtown, Lotus Blanc Resort is a destination on its own, meaning you will need to spend a few days to just enjoy everything this hotel has to offer! With its own pool, fitness center, banquet facilities, lounge, bar, spa, and so much more, this resort will blow your mind with the number of perks packed into it!
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Neighborhood #3 – Old Market
Where to stay in Siem Reap for nightlife!
(Photo Credit: https://www.flickr.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in the Old Market – Wander the stalls and shops of the old market!
- BEST place to visit in Old Market – As night falls explore some of the neighboring night markets!
The old market is located in the heart of all of the action of Siem Reap. The Old Market (also known as Phsar Chas) is typically geared more towards locals. This does not mean you should pass up a chance to wander the stalls and such for various oddities. At Phsar Chas you will get a true taste of local culture, this can be in the form of just people watching or actually chowing down on some local dishes!
At night is when the real fun begins! The Old Market is right on top of Siem Reaps famous pub street and night market! Elbow your way through the crowds, pick up some souvineers, or just hang out watching this sprawing market. After having your fill of all the roadside stalls, indulge in Siem Reap’s nightlife! With some of the best bars and clubs in the country, you are sure to be partying till dawn!
- Go club hopping and dance the night away at one of the many music venues around the Old Market!
- Looking to try a local delicacy? You will have to grab a bite at the Cambodian BBQ Restaurant!
- Relaxation isn’t far away, get a massage at one of the many parlors in the area!
- Grab a drink at The Red Piano, known as Angelina Jolies favorite bar on Pub Street!
- Dance all night at Temple Club, one of the hottest joints in town!
- Cook for yourself while taking a cooking class at the papar tiger!
Best Budget Hotel in the Old Market
Blossoming Romduol Boutique
Blossoming Romduol Boutique offers dormitory and private rooms, making it perfect for those on a budget in Siem Reap. On-site at the hotel you will also find a beautiful garden area, a sparkling outdoor swimming pool, along with a delicious restaurant.
Best Mid-range Hotel in the Old Market
The Amazing Residence
As you may have already guessed from the name, this hotel is nothing short of amazing! The Amazing Residence has something for everyone, no matter if you are traveling as a couple or as a family. Boasting its own restaurant, terrace, pool, and even a playground for the kids, you will have everything you need to ensure you have a perfect time in Siem Reap!
Best Luxury Hotel in the Old Market
Golden Temple Boutique
The Golden Temple Boutique can be summed up as being the granddaddy of all luxury hotels in Siem Reap. This means you are only getting the best of the best at this 5-star hotel! A restaurant, pool, bar, spa, and a library are just a few of the many things you will discover in this boutique hotel! More than anything else, the decor and atmosphere is one that embodies all of the best things of traditional Khmer culture!
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Neighborhood #4 – Charles de Gaulle Boulevard
Best neighbourhood in Siem Reap for families!
- COOLEST thing to do in Charles de Gaulle Boulevard – Be as close as you can to the iconic Angkor Wat!
- BEST place to visit in Charles de Gaulle Boulevard – Walk the halls and educate yourself about Cambodia’s past at the War Remnants museums
For those whose partying days are over or are just looking for a more upscale stay, Charles de Gaulle Boulevard is home to some of Siem Reaps most luxurious hotels and resorts. It is not just an amazing night’s stay which will make you want to stay in this neighborhood, but the number of cultural sites and performances are more than enough to have you sold on this district!
Especially if you are looking to be one of the first people at Angkor Wat to catch that breathtaking sunrise, staying on Charles de Gaulle Boulevard is a must. Located on the road linking Siem Reap and the temple complex, you are truly going to get the best of both worlds!
- Get spiritual and pray at Wat Thmei!
- Pamper yourself and book yourself a slot at one of the famous spas in the area!
- Check out some local art at Тheam’s House gallery
- Make a splash and enjoy yourself at one of the many pools!
Best Budget Hotel on Charles de Gaulle Boulevard
Villa D Riverside Boutique Hotel
Located just off of Charles de Gaulle Boulevard lies this traditional and authentic hotel, which offers guests beautifully designed rooms at budget-friendly prices. On-site you will find an outdoor saltwater swimming pool, an in-house restaurant, along with a helpful tour desk.
Best Mid-range Hotel on Charles de Gaulle Boulevard
The Cyclo d’Angkor Boutique Hotel
With a mix of traditional Khmer and colonial architecture, you will have the feeling that you are staying in an authentic part of Cambodian history! Other than the obvious beauty of the hotel, guests will also have access to the hotel’s spa, gift shop, pool, bikes, bar, and restaurant. This means that no matter if you are planning on spending the day at the hotel or out exploring the town, Cycle d’Angkor will make sure your adventure is starting off on the right foot!
Best Luxury Hotel on Charles de Gaulle Boulevard
Templation Hotel
Templation Hotel sets the bar for what luxury 5-star hotels should be in Siem Reap. Other than the obvious beauty of the gardens and the architecture put into the hotel itself, your jaw will drop when you see the hotel’s onsite pool, spa, fitness center, restaurant, and bar. It is not just all the things that this hotel offers that makes it one of the best in Siem Reap, but the staff are the ones who will make you truly fall in love with Cambodia!
Neighborhood #5 – Wat Bo
Where to stay in Siem Reap on a budget!
(Photo Credit: http://www.globaltravelmate.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Wat Bo – Explore Wat Bo, one of the oldest temples in Siem Reap!
- BEST place to visit in Wat Bo – Take a relaxing river cruise and enjoy Siem Reap from the water!
Wat Bo is a neighborhood named after a nearby temple, which is well known as one of the oldest temples within Siem Reap! Other than the obvious cultural heritage of this area you will find loads of cheap boutique restaurants, cute cafes, and some of the best bars in town.
Located on the opposite side of the river from the French Quarter and all of the night markets, Wat Bo district still offers some of the best views in town. Without all of the hustle and bustle but still within walking distance to all the action, Wat Bo is by far one of the best places to stay in Siem Reap!
- Check out the wooden water wheel along the river!
- Take a bike tour and explore Siem Reap on wheels!
- Have breakfast at Temple Coffee n Bakery!
- Catch a show at Angkor Village Apsara Theatre!
- Grab a bite and a drink at Jungle Burger Sports Bar!
Best Budget Hotel in Wat Bo
Sam So Boutique Villa
A boutique hotel situated inside a beautifully designed villa, Sam So Boutique Villa, offers guests a sense of luxury at reasonable prices. On-site, you will find a stunning outdoor swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and luscious plants creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Wat Bo
Lynnaya Urban River Resort
Just across the water from the lively pub street and old market, Lynnaya Urban River Resort will have you immersed in traditional Khmer culture and provide you with world-famous Cambodian hospitality! Including its very own spa, gift shop, bar, restaurant, and so much more, this resort will have you relaxing and enjoying your vacation to the fullest from the second you check-in!
Best Luxury Hotel in Wat Bo
Viroth’s Hotel
Viroth’s Hotel will take your breath away at first sight with its vertical gardens hanging from the outside of the hotel! It is not only the gardens which will make you fall in love with this luxury hotel, but the pool, outdoor restaurant, bar, and spa will have you never wanting to leave the comfort of Siem Reap! Top it all of with an amazing location in a quiet neighborhood yet close enough to all the action, and you have the start to a perfect vacation in Cambodia!
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Neighborhood #6 – Sok San Road
Best neighbourhood in Siem Reap for couples!
(Photo Credit: https://redpianocambodia.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Sok San Road – Experience all of the excitement of downtown Siem Reap!
- BEST place to visit in Sok San Road – Walk through the many stalls at the Night Market!
Sok San Road is a neighborhood which splinters off west from the lively night market and pub street in central Siem Reap. Although considered fairly long, you will find a mix of backpackers bars to more down to earth cafes lining this street. Depending on how you like to travel you can find hotels right in the thick of the action or more out in the suburbs.
WIth your option of relaxing pools to insane clubs, Sok San is a mixed bag which can offer travelers something new every night. Would you prefer to explore some urban temples or bustling night markets? You adventure depends on what corner you turn off of Sok San Road!
- Taste some of the multicultural cuisine located on Sok San Road!
- Hit a high note while visiting one of the many karaoke bars on Sok Sam Road!
- Get a great view of the city at Kesorkole Sky Bar.
- Move to the music at the Classic Hip-hop Club!
Best Budget Hotel in Sok San Road
Long Night Siem Reap Hotel
If you’re looking for a fun and social place to stay in Sok San Road but don’t fancy staying in a hostel then this is a great option for you. Long Night Siem Reap Hotel has a bustling social atmosphere along with amazing facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, shared lounge are and a terrace.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Sok San Road
Golden Temple Villa
Get a taste of luxury when staying at the Golden Temple Villa. Everything that goes into this hotel is made to make sure you have the most relaxing and memorable time in Siem Reap! With its own pool, garden, bar, restaurant, and terrace barely scratching the surface of all the things this hotel has to offer, you will be constantly surprised by the number of perks packed into this hotel!
Best Luxury Hotel in Sok San Road
The Night Hotel
The Night Hotel truly defines what a luxury stay is all about! With breathtaking architecture, professionally designed garden, a pool, restaurant, and even massage services, this is a hotel where you will be never wanting to check-out! The cherry on top is the fact that this hotel will provide you with all the tools and information you need to explore Angkor Wat and the quaint countryside villages!
Neighborhood #7 – Wat Damnak
Best overlooked neighbourhood in Siem Reap!
(Photo Credit: http://www.globaltravelmate.com/)
- COOLEST thing to do in Wat Damnak – Explore Wat Damnak, one of the most beautiful temples in town!
- BEST place to visit in Wat Damnak – Pamper yourself at the Petit Temple Suite and Spa
Just south of the river, in walking distance from the backpacker’s hub of the French Quarter and the night market, Wat Bo is a neighborhood which is hidden in plain sight. Although just a few steps away from all the best spots in town, you will find little tourists snapping pics in this district off the beaten path.
With all of its own restaurants, bars, and temples, Wat Bo exists within its own bubble away from the crowds. You will find tons of spas and cafes to wind down in before heading out to some of the more intense parts of Siem Reap!
- Send your tastebuds to heaven at Cusine Wat Damnak!
- Take a cooking class at Lily’s Secret Garden!
- Explore the local art scene of Siem Reap at the Siem Reap Art Center Market
- Watch traditional shadow puppets at Bambu Stage Siem Reap
Best Budget Hotel in Wat Damnak
Residence Wat Damnak
An amazing location just a 2-minute walk from the famous Pub Street and Old Market, this is the perfect place to stay for those who want to be close enough to the hustle and bustle but far enough away for a good night’s sleep. The hotel also offers an in-house restaurant serving up a storm of delectable Khmer cuisine along with a bar offering a tasty selection of cocktails and beers.
Best Mid-range Hotel in Wat Damnak
Golden Temple Retreat
From the moment you reach the airport, the Golden Temple Retreat will be with you every step of the way to make sure you have the time of your life in Siem Reap! This luxurious hotel has its very own pool, bar, and restaurant for you to enjoy at your leisure. The atmosphere alone of this hotel is more than enough to have you fall head over heels in love and never wanting to part from the Golden Temple!
Best Luxury Hotel in Wat Damnak
Primefold Hotel
The very design of this hotel was all made by hand, to truly provide guests with a sense of authenticity and luxury from the second they put down their luggage. Although you will be within walking distance of all of the best sites in town, the comfort of your hotel and the top class service will have you never wanting to leave Primefold Hotel! With its own swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, the first step to a memorable vacation starts here!
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Siem Reap?
Siem Reap is a town which lies at the gates of the world-famous Angkor Wat temple. People come from all corners of the globe to bask in the beauty of this mammoth temple. Little do they know that Siem Reap is where the real adventure it at.
With sprawling markets, mouthwatering dishes, breathtaking architecture, and a culture full of vibrant colors and traditions, Siem Reap is the place where you will feel right at home with the Cambodian people.
No matter if you are traveling on a shoe-string or searching for a luxurious vacation, Siem Reap is sure to show you the time of your life!
Depending on how you like to travel, you will need to stay in a neighborhood which will show you the best side of Siem Reap. For us, the best place to stay is Wat Bo!
From the elaborate temples to hopping pub streets, Siem Reap is a town of many faces. No matter what your fancy is, your holiday is sure to be one that you will be reminiscing about for years to come!
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