Siem Reap is the gateway to one of the greatest wonders of the world, Angkor Wat, but the city itself has its charm too.
Located on the north-eastern side of Cambodia, the center of town – once colonized by France – remains with its French style homes and shops.
As more expats settle here, the food and bar options have become considerably better, and you can spend a couple days, exploring the night market, museums, and food scene with ease.
Engage in the culture; eat strange, exotic bugs; watch a traditional aspara dance; take a Khmer cooking class.
Now, depending on what you want to do in this city will largely determine where to stay in Siem Reap.
That’s why we wrote this guide on the 5 top neighborhoods, broken down by interest and things to do.
Read on to learn more about the five coolest areas in Siem Reap!
Looking for a specific place to stay? While Siem Reap’s backpacker 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!
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Best Airbnb in Siem Reap: Second Floor Studio
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.
Best Hostel in Siem Reap: Lub d Cambodia 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.
Best Hotel in Siem Reap: Somadevi Residence
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, each outfitted with air conditioning, cable/satellite, and tea/coffee making facilities. It boasts a stunning outdoor swimming pool and a unique on-site restaurant.
Coolest Hotel in Siem Reap: Bophus Residence
Bohpa Residence is a stunning, upscale hotel in one of the coolest neighborhoods in Siem Reap, Wat Damnak. Only featuring 20 spacious rooms, the staff pays attention to their guests with detail.
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.
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.
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 neighbourhoods.This guide includes the “must-sees” broken down by interest.
The Old French Quarter and Old Markets neighbourhoods are located at the heart of the city. These two neighbourhoods 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 river and you’ll find yourself in the Wat Bo Road and Wat Damnak neighbourhoods. These two neighbourhoods 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 neighbourhood 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, we’ve got you covered below!
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Siem Reap
Getting around Siem Reap on an itinerary is pretty easy: it’s 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 neighbourhoods with relative ease.
However, some neighbourhoods 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 immerse yourself in the Cambodia way of life? All of these things are possible if you stay in the right place.
Here are the best neighbourhoods 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.
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.
- Try contemporary Asian cuisine and a good selection of wines at Cassia Restaurant.
- See the home of the Cambodian royals by passing by the Royal Residence.
- Cool down on a hot day at Siem Reap Brewpub, where you can enjoy good food, great beers, and a fantastic atmosphere.
- Explore the history and culture of Siem Reap at the Angkor National Museum, just over the road from the Old French Quarter.
- Enjoy delicious and authentic Cambodian food at chic and stylish Kroya Restaurant.
- Take a short trip north of Siem Reap and experience the splendour that in Angkor Wat.
Best Airbnb in Old French Quarter: Second Floor Studio
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.
Best Hostel in Old French Quarter: Mad Monkey Siem Reap
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 neighbourhood, 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.
Best Hotel in Old French Quarter: Somadevi Residence
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.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Wat Bo Road – Where 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 neighbourhood 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.
Things to See and Do in Wat Bo Road
- Satisfy your hunger and indulge at Hansa BBQ & Seafood.
- Marvel at the beauty of Wat Bo Temple as you explore one of the oldest and most exquisite temples in the province.
- Enjoy cheap and delicious meals, drinks, and more at Barrio.
- 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.
Best Hostel in Wat Bo Road: Lub d Cambodia Siem Reap
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.
Best Hotel in Wat Bo Road: Riversoul Residence
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.
Best Airbnb in Wat Bo Road: Capsule Hotel
Have you ever spent the night in a capsule hostel? If you’re looking for a different experience for a great price, this hostel offers Queen Sized Capsule Bed. They are the first of its kind in Siem Reap, each capsule can accommodate up to 2 people and they are equipped with curtains for your privacy. For solo travellers this is perfect, as you can enjoy a double bed while still having the backpacking, dorm experience.
Capsule Hotel is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
3. Old Market – Where to Stay in Siem Reap for Nightlife
Old Market neighbourhood is located at the centre of Siem Reap. Old Market is Siem Reap’s liveliest and most vibrant neighbourhood. It’s a conveniently located area in Siem Reap as you are well connected to Angkor Wat and numerous other attractions.
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 neighbourhood to stay in Siem Reap if you want to experience Cambodia’s legendary nightlife scene.
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.
- 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 Wat Bar, a cool and relaxed Pub Street Bar.
- Sip on contemporary cocktails at Miss Wong’s Cocktail bar, where the décor is chic and the drinks are tasty!
- 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.
- Indulge in Khmer cocktails at Asana, the only traditional Khmer house in the city.
- Visit Temple Club for a great night of drinks and dancing, which attracts throngs of partygoers until the early morning.
- Enjoy exotic cocktails, great music, and a fun night out at YOLO Bar.
Best Hostel in Old Market: One Stop Hostel Siem Reap @ Pub Street
Located in the heart of Siem Reap’s nightlife scene is the One Stop Hostel. Fun, clean, and comfortable, this hostel is a great place to stay within walking distance of Siem Reap’s best bars and hottest clubs.
There are plenty of options – private and shared rooms – and each guest gets their own electrical socket, personal reading lamp, and a comfortable bed.
Best Hotel in Old Market: Neta Socheata
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.
Best Airbnb in Old Market: Private room with balcony
Only 900m from the lively Pub Street, Landing Zone Boutique Hotel provides charming Khmer-style accommodation in the heart of Siem Reap for a very affordable price. Guests have access to the outdoor swimming pool and can enjoy meals at the in-house restaurant. This hotel is only 900m from Angkor Night Market. The property offers free airport pick-up. Private rooms have a balcony overlooking the cityscape or pool. Amenities include air conditioning, a minibar and an en suite bathroom with a shower and a bathtub.
Private room with balcony is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Wat Damnak – Coolest Place to Stay in Siem Reap
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.
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 neighbourhood where you can eat well, enjoy a few drinks, and relax in the heart of the city.
Things to See and Do in Wat Damnak
- Dine on divine dishes at Cuisine Wat Damnak, one of the city’s most famous and renowned restaurants.
- Indulge in Euro-Asian fusion fare at The Republic, a relaxing and rustic restaurant.
- 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.
- Pamper yourself by booking a relaxing spa day at Seasons Spa.
- 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.
- Enjoy delicious and inexpensive traditional Khmer dishes at Khmer Grill Restaurant.
Best Hotel in Wat Damnak: Bophus Residence
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 neighbourhood, this hotel is surrounded by restaurants and bars and is a short walk to the city’s top attractions.
Best Airbnb in Wat Damnak: Modern residence-style retreat
The Silver Smith Residence is a modern residence-style retreat set in a quiet neighborhood in Wat Damnak Village’s Bamboo Street, but a mere 5 minute walk away from the heart of downtown Siem Reap. This place also offers all-day dining – with a multi-choice of Khmer cuisine, Pan-Asian, or Western dishes – access to the swimming pool until 9 pm, and spa treatments (check for opening and closing hours). The host is fluent in English, which is always a big plus.
Modern residence-style retreat is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Wat Damnak: HI Siem Reap Deluxe
This riverside hostel is the perfect place to stay in the Wat Damnak neighbourhood. It’s located a short walk from Pub Street and the city’s main attractions and is easily accessible from the airport and other areas of the city.
It features a rooftop swimming pool and in-house restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy food, booze, snacks and smoothies. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature comfortable and clean beds.
HI Siem Reap Deluxe is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
5. Taphul Village – Where to Stay in Siem Reap for Families
Taphul Village is a charming neighbourhood 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 neighbourhood 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.
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.
- Enjoy a delicious meal of Asian fusion dishes at Lilypop, a centrally-located, family-friendly restaurant.
- 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.
Best Airbnb in Taphul Village: Airy and Vibrant Villa
Tranquility Villas provides a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere while allowing for easy access to a sophisticated, urban setting. It features a year-round infinity pool with sun terrace and loungers. Quiet, surrounded by supermarket bars and free pick-up service, this villa is a rare Southeast Asian style wooden house in the city. It has a unique design style and a separate sun terrace in each room. Chinese and English services provide convenient travel advice as well as car rental and ticketing services.
Airy and Vibrant Villa is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Taphul Village: Funky Flashpacker Siem Reap
Funky Flashpacker 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.
Funky Flashpacker Siem Reap is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Taphul Village: Mulberry Boutique Hotel
The Mulberry Boutique 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 garden, this hotel is the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventures in Siem Reap.
Mulberry Boutique Hotel is one of our favourites in Siem Reap but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Siem Reap
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Siem Reap and where to stay.
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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 our 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.
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