Siem Reap is known by many travellers as the gateway to one of the greatest wonders of the world, Angkor Wat. But this city is so much more than that – I fell in love with it during my first visit in 2018 and would LOVE to return.
It isn’t exactly what you would expect from a Cambodian city. Once colonised by France, you’ll still find French-style homes and shops. In parts of the city, it’s like taking a step back in time to Ancient Europe.
There is a lot of fun to be had in Siem Reap – it’s infamous Pub Street and Happy Pizzas have kept backpackers coming back for ages after all. But it’s not all fun and games – this is a place rife with culture, delicious food, and history that goes beyond its world-famous temples.
Deciding where to stay in Siem Reap is no easy task. You’ve got many different neighborhoods that each offer something a little different.
And that’s where I’ve come in! I’ve compiled the best areas to stay in Siem Reap and what makes each unique.
So, let’s dive in and figure out which area is best for you!
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
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- Where Is The Best Place to Stay in Siem Reap?
- Siem Reap Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Siem Reap
- Siem Reap’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Siem Reap
- What To Pack For Siem Reap
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Siem Reap
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Looking for a specific place to stay? While Siem Reap’s hostel scene may be alive, kicking, and cheap, there are heaps of other cool accommodations. From elegant Airbnb crash pads to luxury suites, here are the best places to stay in Siem Reap!
Park Hyatt Siem Reap | Best Hotel in Siem Reap
Park Hyatt is the best hotel in Siem Reap. Located just steps away from top attractions like the Old French Quarter and Pub Street, this five-star hotel offers a luxurious retreat with exceptional service. You’ll also be only 15 minutes away from the Angkor temples.
The rooms are modern and spacious, each outfitted with air conditioning, cable/satellite, and tea/coffee making facilities. It boasts a stunning outdoor swimming pool, numerous plunge pools, a fitness centre, and a unique on-site restaurant.
Bophus Residence | Coolest Hotel in Siem Reap
Bohpa Residence is a stunning, upscale hotel in one of the coolest neighborhoods in Siem Reap, Wat Damnak. Only featuring 20 spacious rooms, you’ll get unparalleled attention from the friendly staff.
All guests have access to the outdoor pool for ultimate relaxation. When you’re ready to explore Siem Reap, you’re just a short walk from the city’s top attractions and great restaurants and bars.
Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap | Best Hostel in Siem Reap
This is the best hostel in Siem Reap, located at the south end of the Wat Bo Road area, it’s a short walk to the river as well as the city’s liveliest bars and trendiest restaurants.
This chic property offers private and dorm-style accommodations. Its features include a swimming pool with swim-up bar, all-day breakfast, and an on-site cafe and bar.
Second Floor Studio | Best Airbnb in Siem Reap
Ananda’s is a Siem-Reap-based co-living platform. The place is a renovated 20-year old shop in a vibrant, yet quiet area of Siem Reap’s Kandal Village. The studio is located on the second floor, accessible via stairs (no elevator).
It has air-conditioning and a ceiling fan. The room opens up onto a semi-private balcony, with a magnificent view on Wat Preah Prom Rath. The rooftop is accessible until 10 pm and is a perfect
location to relax after a long day of sightseeing at the temples of
Angkor.
Old French Quarter
Old French Quarter is the best place to stay in Siem Reap if you’re visiting for the first time. Located at the centre of the city, the Old French Quarter is close to main thoroughfares and well connected to the area’s top attraction, Angkor Wat.
Wat Bo Road
Wat Bo Road is also where travellers will find a good mix of accommodation options and styles. From budget hostels to mid-range boutiques, this is the place to stay if you’re looking for high-quality without a high price tag.
Old Market
Old Market neighbourhood is located at the centre of Siem Reap. Old Market is Siem Reap’s liveliest and most vibrant neighbourhood; also conveniently located as you are well connected to Angkor Wat and other parts of the city.
Wat Damnak
Wat Damnak is a small neighbourhood located south of the Wat Bo Road area, on the east side of the river. A calm and relaxing neighbourhood, Wat Damnak just a stone’s throw from Angkor’s Night Market and Pub Street’s rowdiest bars.
Taphul Village
Taphul Village is a charming neighborhood located to the west of the Old French Quarter.This is the best neighborhood in Siem Reap for families because it is peaceful and safe destination in Cambodia, while still just a stone’s throw from the centre of the action.
Siem Reap is a resort town in northern Cambodia, also famously known as the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park and the iconic Angkor Wat, which is less than six kilometers north of the city.
But there’s more to see and do in Siem Reap than just Angkor Wat – and after reading this post, you’ll agree that Siem Reap is one of the best places to stay in Cambodia. From traditional and modern cuisine to lively and trendy bars, you can happily spend a few days exploring Siem Reap and its surroundings.
Home to more than 180,000 people, Siem Reap is a compact city that is divided into several distinct neighborhoods. This guide also includes the “must-sees” broken down by interest.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Old French Quarter and Old Markets neighborhoods are located in Central Siem Reap. These two neighborhoods are where you’ll find the top historic and cultural attractions as well as Siem Reap’s hottest bars and clubs.
Travel east across the Siem Reap river and you’ll find yourself in the Wat Bo Road and Wat Damnak neighborhoods. These two neighborhoods cater to travellers who enjoy a good time and a great meal. They are also where you’ll find the best budget accommodation in Siem Reap.
West of the centre of town is Taphul Village. Charming and authentic, this neighborhood is an ideal base for families. It is close to the centre, but also well connected to Angkor Wat and villages surrounding Siem Reap.
Still confused about where to stay in Siem Reap? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered below!
Siem Reap’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
Getting to the places on your Siem Reap itinerary is pretty easy: it’s a relatively small city, easily navigated on foot or by bike. There are also many motorbike and tuk-tuk drivers willing to take you from one locale to the next. No matter where you stay you’ll be able to visit the various neighborhoods with relative ease.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
However, some neighborhoods in Siem Reap are better suited than others depending on your specific travel style. Do you want to dance the night away at the city’s hottest bars and clubs? Or, do you want to be within walking distance of the trendiest restaurants?
Perhaps you want to enjoy a quieter pace and really want to Cambodia way of life? All of these things are possible if you stay in the right place.
Here are the best neighborhoods in Siem Reap broken down by interest.
1. Old French Quarter – Where to Stay in Siem Reap for the First Time
Old French Quarter is the best place to stay in Siem Reap if you’re visiting Cambodia for the first time. Located at the centre of the city, the Old French Quarter is close to main thoroughfares and well connected to the area’s top attraction, Angkor Wat.
Charming and vintage, this area of the city is full of colonial buildings and heritage architecture. It is where you’ll find a great number of the city’s top attractions as well as delicious restaurants and enchanting sights.
The Old French Quarter is also within walking distance of the Old Market and the area’s top bars and clubs.
Somadevi Residence | Best Hotel in Old French Quarter
Somadevi Residence is the best hotel in Siem Reap. Located in the Old French Quarter, this five-star hotel offers a luxurious and top quality stay at an affordable price.
The rooms are modern and spacious, and each is outfitted with air conditioning, cable/satellite, and tea/coffee making facilities. It boasts a stunning outdoor swimming pool and a unique on-site restaurant.
Mad Monkey Siem Reap | Best Hostel in Old French Quarter
If you’re looking for budget accommodations in the Old French Quarter look no further than Mad Monkey Hostel. They’re mainstays in both Cambodia’s epic hostelling scene as well as across Southeast Asia! Located on the western edge of the neighborhood, this hostel is within walking distance of the city’s best bars and restaurants.
Rooms are outfitted with air conditioning and each bed has its own private bag locker. It has a rooftop terrace, a sun-drenched pool, and a world-class positive atmosphere.
Second Floor Studio | Best Airbnb in Old French Quarter
Ananda’s is a Siem-Reap based co-living platform. The place is a renovated 20-year old shop in a vibrant, yet quiet area of Siem Reap’s Kandal Village. The studio is located on the second floor, accessible via stairs (no elevator). It has air-conditioning and a ceiling fan. The room opens up onto a semi-private balcony, with a magnificent view on Wat Preah Prom Rath. The rooftop is accessible until 10 pm and is a perfect location to relax after a long day of sightseeing at the temples of Angkor.
Things to See and Do in Old French Quarter
- Spend a charming afternoon looking at miniature sculptures various temples that surround the city at the Miniature Replicas of Angkor’s Temples.
- Find peace, calm, and serenity at Preah Ang Chek Preah Ang Chom, a small but beautiful temple in the heart of the city.
- Take a day trip to see a floating village
- See the home of the Cambodian royals by passing by the Royal Residence.
- Explore the history and culture of Siem Reap at the Angkor National Museum, just over the road from the Old French Quarter.
- Go on a guided walking tour of the city
- Enjoy delicious and authentic Khmer cuisine at the stylish Kroya Restaurant located in the Shinta Mani Angkor Wat.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Wat Bo Road – Best Place to Stay in Siem Reap on a Budget
Cambodia is a budget backpackers paradise and your itinerary for Siem Reap can be Siem Cheap! Wat Bo Road is one of the main streets in Siem Reap, located to the east of the river.
A charming and quaint area, this neighborhood is full of lush greenery and is decorated with colourful flowers and plants. It’s the ideal base for a relaxing stay in Siem Reap.
Wat Bo Road is also where travellers will find a good mix of accommodation options and styles. From budget hostels to mid-range boutiques, this is the place to stay if you’re looking for high-quality without a high price tag.
You’ll be well situated too, as Wat Bo Road is a short walk to Siem Reap’s best bars, and well connected to other parts of the city.
Photo: limio.ch (Flickr)
Riversoul Boutique | Best Hotel in Wat Bo Road
Riversoul Residence is a four-star hotel located at the centre of the Wat Bo Road area. A short walk to the heart of Siem Reap, this hotel is a stone’s throw from Pub Street, the Night Market and all of the city’s trendiest nightspots.
Rooms are modern and comfortable, and each is outfitted with all the necessities for a relaxing stay in Siem Reap.
Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap | Best Hostel in Wat Bo Road
This hostel is the best in the city. It’s located at the south end of the Wat Bo Road area. It’s a short walk to the river as well as the city’s liveliest bars and trendiest restaurants.
This chic property offers private and dorm-style accommodations. It features include a swimming pool with swim-up bar, all-day breakfast, and an on-site cafe and bar.
b. Loft | Best Airbnb in Wat Bo Road
This epic Airbnb is a uniquely designed townhouse in the fantastic location known as Wat Bo Road. With three bedrooms and enough space for up to 6 guests, it’s ideal for families or groups of friends. The urban home was built by a renowned Cambodian architect – you’ll find both a kitchen and an outdoor BBQ if you’re in need of some home cooked food!
Things to See and Do in Wat Bo Road
- Marvel at the beauty of Wat Bo Temple, one of the oldest and most exquisite temples in the province.
- Rent bikes and explore the colourful and relaxing riverside on two wheels.
- Take in a spectacular stage show at the Angkor Village Apsara Theatre, featuring music, dancing singing and more!
- Catch a game and enjoy a few cocktails at Jungle Burger Sports Bar & Bistro.
- Hire a motorbike and explore sites outside of the city, including Angkor Wat and the surrounding countryside.
- Take a three-hour boat tour down the Siem River to see the city and country from a new angle.
3. Old Market – Best Area to Stay in Siem Reap For Nightlife
Old Market neighborhood is located at the centre of Siem Reap. Old Market is the liveliest and most vibrant neighborhood. It’s a conveniently located area in as you are well connected to Angkor Wat and the city’s other best places to visit.
Tucked within Old Market’s winding streets and alleys are a variety of fun and energetic bars. Many are concentrated along Street 08, which is affectionately called Pub Street by locals and travellers.
In the areas surrounding Pub Steet, you’ll find everything from contemporary cocktail bars and cosy cafes to wild dance clubs and rocking bars.
This is the best neighborhood to stay in Siem Reap if you want to experience Cambodia’s legendary nightlife scene.
Neta Socheata | Best Hotel in Old Market
Just a stone’s throw from the river, this hotel is a quiet oasis away from the chaos of Siem Reap, while still just a short walk from Pub Street and Old Market’s best bars and restaurants.
This hotel offers guests comfortable and spacious rooms, each featuring air conditioning and other amenities required for a great stay in the city.
Onederz Siem Reap | Best Hostel in Old Market
Onederz Siem Reap is by far one of (if not THE) coolest hostels in the city! With not just one but TWO iconic pools, the hostel has top ratings from backpackers and I’m sure you’ll quickly see why. It’s within walking distance of the infamous Pub Street. Choose between twin or double private rooms or the much more budget-friendly dorms. The staff are friendly and helpful and made sure to make my stay awesome – sure there may be more famous hostels in the city, but Onederz is truly the best!
Minimalist 3 Bedroom Home | Best Airbnb in Old Market
This contemporary-style home is the best Airbnb you’ll find in Siem Reap’s Old Market district. 30 seconds to pub street, it gives you the feeling of being tucked away somewhere super peaceful and quiet, which I absolutely loved. The home can fit up to 7 guests, and even allows furry friends to come with. An incredible coffee shop, snacks and even a massage parlor can be found right outside.
Things to See and Do in Old Market
- Explore Kendal Village, an up-and-coming area of Old Market that is home to quaint cafes and trendy restaurants.
- Take a Khmer cooking class.
- Party the night away at BARCODE, a chic and stylish lounge where resident DJs play the hottest new music.
- Enjoy late-night drinks at The Angkor What Bar, a cool and relaxed Pub Street Bar.
- Browse the stalls of souvenirs, food, and drinks at the lively Angkor Night Market.
- Unwind after a day of sightseeing at the relaxed and laid-back Laundry Bar.
- Go on an iconic street food tour.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Wat Damnak – Coolest Place to Stay in Siem Reap
Wat Damnak is a small neighborhood located south of the Wat Bo Road area, on the east side of the river. A calm and relaxing neighborhood, Wat Damnak just a stone’s throw from Angkor’s Night Market and Pub Street’s rowdiest bars.
Well-connected to the rest of the city, Wat Damnak is one of Siem Reap’s up and coming districts. It is within Wat Damnak that you can find some of the city’s most renowned restaurants and cafes that offer contemporary and modern cuisines.
Wat Damnak is a neighborhood where you can eat well, enjoy a few drinks, and relax in the heart of the city.
Bophus Residence | Best Hotel in Wat Damnak
Bohpa Residence is a stunning four-star hotel in Wat Damnak. It features 20 spacious and modern rooms; all guests have access to a relaxing outdoor pool and seating area.
Located at the heart of the neighborhood, this hotel is surrounded by restaurants and bars and is a short walk to the city’s top attractions.
Wat Damnak House | Best Villa in Wat Damnak
This massive home is the best idea if you’re exploring Siem Reap as a large group! With enough space for up to 12 guests, it’s almost like a mini hostel set in a stunning residential area. The villa comes complete with a lush green garden that of course has a pool, a living room, a shared kitchen, and all day security for your peace of mind.
Things to See and Do in Wat Damnak
- Go on a sunset quad tour on the outskirts of the city
- Dine on Khmer food at Cuisine Wat Damnak, one of the city’s most famous and renowned restaurants.
- Browse the stalls at the Siem Reap Art Centre Market where you can find everything from inexpensive pedicures to exotic foods like scorpions, snakes and more.
- Enjoy a cool drink in a tropical garden theatre as you take in a one-of-a-kind performance at Bambu Stage Siem Reap.
- Sample Sombai, a sweet Cambodian liqueur and an authentic taste of Siem Reap.
- Marvel at the stunning architecture and beautiful décor of the Wat Damnak Buddhist Temple.
5. Taphul Village – Best Neighborhood in Siem Reap for Families to Stay In
Taphul Village is a charming neighborhood located to the west of the Old French Quarter.This is the best neighborhood in Siem Reap for families because it is peaceful and safe destination in Cambodia, while still just a stone’s throw from the centre of the action.
Situated near two main roads, Taphul Village is well connected to the airport and other parts of the city. A short walk from the Old French Quarter and the Night Market, this neighborhood has all the conveniences of the city without the hustle and bustle.
Enjoy a taste of authentic Cambodian life in the heart of Siem Reap.
Somadevi Residence | Best Hotel in Taphul Village
The Somadevi Residence Hotel is a charming property located in the middle of Siem Reap. It provides guests with modern and comfortable rooms, as well as a number of great features and amenities.
Boasting a swimming pool and relaxing lush gardens, this hotel is the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventures in Siem Reap.
The Funky Village | Best Hostel in Taphul Village
Funky Village hostel is located to the south of Taphul Village. Boasting nearly 200 beds, this hostel offers guests shared and private accommodations, including rooms that are perfect for small families.
A short walk to the centre of the city, this hostel is well situated for exploring Siem Reap and its surroundings. Enjoy comfortable beds and an outdoor swimming pool at this fun and vibrant hostel.
7 Bedroom Villa | Best Airbnb in Taphul Village
Another epic spot in Siem Reap is this luxury villa just 2 miles from the city centre. This place is MASSIVE with enough room for 14 guests. Outfitted from top to bottom with modern amenities, high-end Siem Reap accommodation does not get better than this. With seven bedrooms, eight beds, and an incredible pool to chill out in, I have no doubt you’ll feel right at home here. Sure it’s more expensive than what you’d expect in Southeast Asia, but it’s a steal for what you get, especially if you’re splitting with friends!
Things to See and Do in Taphul Village
- Escape the heat and browse the Lucky Mall shops, where you’ll find everything from toy stores to supermarkets.
- Indulge your sweet tooth at Fresh Fruit Factory, a café that offers handmade iced desserts, sweet treats, and tasty bites.
- Wake up bright and early, and head north of the city to watch the sunrise over the iconic Angkor Wat.
- Rent bikes and spend a day exploring the towns, villages, and fields that surround Siem Reap.
- You won’t believe your eyes at Artbox, the world’s largest and highest level trick art museums, located just a short drive from the city.
- Go on a whirlwind tour of Cambodian culture and heritage at the Cambodian Cultural Village.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Siem Reap
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Siem Reap and where to stay.
What To Pack For Siem Reap
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
How many days should I stay in Siem Reap?
I’d say you should set aside three days for this cool Cambodian city. This will give you enough time to get your Angkor Wat fix AND check out the rest of what it has to offer.
What to avoid in Siem Reap?
The most important thing to avoid in Siem Reap is disrespecting the Angkor Wat temples. This means you should dress appropriately and make sure you’re not taking any classless pictures.
What’s up with “happy” pizzas in Siem Reap?
Sure this isn’t Thailand, but “happy” pizzas that as essentially topped with cannabis are all the rage in Siem Reap! These are legal and known by most travellers. My only word of advice is t go slow – these can be STRONG.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Siem Reap
You don’t want to visit Cambodia without grabbing some solid travel insurance!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Siem Reap
In this guide, we have covered where to stay in Siem Reap through my five favorite neighborhoods. Reflect on what you want out of your trip to Cambodia and Siem Reap, and don’t forget to engage in the culture and history of this city as well as the temples of course.
Are you solely focusing on Angkor Wat, one of the best temples in Cambodia, if not the world? Maybe stay in the nearby, family-friendly Taphul Village. Want to stay at a budget-friendly, yet good-valued hotel? Then consider the Wat Bo Road neighborhood!
Still not really sure exactly where to stay in Siem Reap?
You can’t go wrong with the hostel, Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap. At the south end of Wat Bo Road, you’ll be a stone throw’s away from lively bars and trendy restaurants. Bonus points for their swimming pool and swim-up bar, on-site cafe and bar, and all-day breakfast.
Somadevi Residence is a luxurious yet affordable hotel in the Old French Quarter. Amenities include a swimming pool and on-site restaurant.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Cambodia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Siem Reap.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Siem Reap to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Siem Reap is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
