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Where to Stay in Siem Reap :
Siem Reap is a bustling city and a popular destination for tourists who come from all over the world to see the famous temple complex of Angkor Wat.
Hundreds of years ago Southeast Asia was part of the mighty empire of Siam and this is reflected in the city’s current name, Siem Reap, which literally means “conquer Siam”, illustrating the war represented in the temples of Siam. Angkor. Wat temple complex.
The first mention of Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples in modern literature was by Antonio da Magdalena, a Portuguese monk who traveled through the area in 1586. He described the temples as “of extraordinary construction, impossible to describe with a pen” and he noted that they were like “no other building in the world” with “towers and decoration” as refined as the human imagination would believe possible.
The best way to get around Siem Reap is to rent a bicycle or a tuk tuk. After many foreigners have had accidents, it is no longer possible to rent motorbikes and the alternative, the human-powered bicycle, can be rented for around $4-5 per day. There are many bike rental shops in town, and you can also ask your hotel or guesthouse if they have bikes for rent. The other option, a Tuk Tuk, is preferable in hot climates.
The best area to stay in Siem Reap is the Old French Quarter! This is where you will find top notch hotels and bars where you can drink and mingle with other tourists!
But of course, if you’re looking for something a little different, I’ve added 5 more areas that cater to different interests such as family activities, markets, luxury hotels, clubs, and budget travellers. Then look no further than the village of Taphul, the old market, Boulevard Charles de Gaulle, Pub Street and Wat Bo.
And since many of you will want to stay in the best hotel near the temple, I’ve also added an extra section with the best resorts near Angkor Wat to really cover everything you need to consider before deciding. Make sure you don’t skip this part because these places are amazing!
1. OLD FRENCH QUARTER
If you’re looking for the complete experience, you can’t find a better place to stay in Siem Reap than in Old French Town.
The area is easily accessible and there are many temples to visit during the day. And a fun nightclub to party at night. This is what awaits you on your trip to Southeast Asia!
As you know, Siem Reap is the gateway to Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world, but the city has so much more! There’s no better place to start your Cambodian adventure than in the Old French Quarter!
There are still many colonial buildings and structures. Especially in this area, the combination with old temples and classic Chinese shops will give the city a multicultural feel.
Luxury Stay
Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas – Shinta Mani Angkor & Bensley Collection Pool Villas is a 5-minute walk from the Old Market and Pub Street. It is a 10-minute drive from Siem Reap Airport and the Angkor Wat temple complex.
FCC Angkor by Avani – Located in central Siem Reap, FCC Angkor by Avani is a 10-minute drive from Angkor Wat and a short walk from the Royal Gardens of Independence and the Royal Residence. The complex is within walking distance of Pub Street and the Night Market. free Wi-Fi access.
Middle-budget
The Aviary Hotel – Inspired by Cambodia’s nature and local crafts, Aviary Hotel is located in Siem Reap, 400 meters from Pub Street. It has a restaurant and a spa and wellness centre.
Somadevi Residence – Located in central Siem Reap, Somadevi Residence is 600 meters from the bustling Pub Street and Old Market. It features an outdoor swimming pool and a gym. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.
Budget Stay
Le Water Villa – Water Villa offers accommodation in Siem Reap. Guests can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant or a snack at the cafe. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Chateau d’Angkor La Residence – The Château d’Angkor La Residence is located in the center of the old French quarter of Siem Reap. It features an outdoor saltwater pool and guests can dine at the hotel’s restaurant. Free Wi-Fi is available.
2. TAPHUL VILLAGE
Exploring one of the most exciting cities in Cambodia with your kids? I recommend looking for hotels near the center of Siem Reap. But definitely not in the city center. Because it’s so busy and crazy!
I recommend the village of Tapper, west of the Old French Quarter. Enjoy the tranquility in this busy area!
You will be within walking distance of many shopping centers and restaurants! Although there are not many attractions in the area. But there are public transport services that can take you to the temples of Angkor Wat, while other temples in the Old French Quarter and the Royal Independence Garden are within walking distance where you can take your kids there. Go play and get some fresh air.
Luxury Stay
Aroma Angkor Boutique Hotel – Aroma Angkor Boutique Hotel has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, bar and garden in Siem Reap. With family rooms, this establishment also offers its guests a terrace. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange.
BB Angkor Residence – BB Angkor Residence in Siem Reap provides adults-only accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and a garden. A sauna and a bicycle rental service are available. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange.
Middle-budget
Eureka Villas Siem Reap – Eureka Villas Siem Reap offers an outdoor swimming pool and modern, peaceful accommodation with free Wi-Fi. The property is 3 km from Wat Thmai and 7.1 km from Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous Pub Street is 1.5 km away, while Siem Reap Airport is 7.4 km away by car.
Lavender Angkor Boutique – Offering a restaurant and views of pool, Lavender Angkor Boutique is set in Siem Reap, less than 1 km from Pub Street and a 7-minute walk from Old Market. Wi-Fi access is free.
Budget Stay
Angkor Pearl Hotel – Angkor Pearl Hotel is conveniently located in the center of Siem Reap, a 5-minute walk from the market and Pub Street. It features a restaurant, free Wi-Fi and free parking.
Jasmine Lodge – Jasmine Lodge offers a rooftop restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool and rooms with a private balcony and free internet access. The hotel also offers a free airport shuttle and free parking.
3. OLD MARKET
The Old Market is located on the banks of the Siem Reap River and is famous for its night markets and nightclubs! Yes, this is where everyone comes to shop, eat and drink!
It’s a super lively neighborhood, and although during the day you can stroll through its streets, the best way to enjoy its magic is after sunset between the many columns of the temple.
Named after the old royal market, which is the place to go if you want to buy clothes, souvenirs and food (basically anything), the area is also home to a beautiful Buddhist temple and gardens, that you will not miss to visit.
Sharing the same bustling atmosphere as most places in Siem Reap, the Old Market is just a 15-minute drive from the famous Angkor temple. The best way to get there is to join a tour and luckily there are plenty that take you from Siem Reap to the temple.
Luxury Stay
Golden Temple Boutique – Located in the heart of Siem Reap, Golden Temple Boutique offers 19 tastefully designed suites decorated with handmade stone, just 100 meters from the Angkor Night Market and 300 meters from the lively Pub Street. You can dine at the on-site restaurant or relax at the spa. Free WiFi.
Middle-budget
Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel – The Khmer Mansion Boutique Hotel is conveniently located. The hotel offers luxurious and comfortable accommodation within 200 meters from the famous Angkor Night Market and Pub Street. The hotel features an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi.
Budget Stay
Uncle Sam Villa – Uncle Sam Villa is a 6-minute walk from Pub Street and Old Market. Angkor Wat is a 1-minute walk from the river and 3.7 miles from Uncle Sam’s Villa. The nearest airport is Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, 8 km from the property.
4. CHARLES DE GAULLE BOULEVARD
The area is perfect for those who have left the party days behind and are looking for an area that is not too busy or crowded with clubs. On the contrary, on the avenue Charles de Gaulle, you will find some cultural attractions, such as the National Museum of Angkor, but also shopping centers!
Many tourists prefer to stay here because the boulevard is directly connected to the road leading to the temple complex of Angkor Wat, and you will probably get there faster if you stay in one of the hotels here.
As I mentioned, this area is quite peaceful and most people who come here are looking for a peaceful getaway. Additionally, there are many gardens around Boulevard Charles de Gaulle that are well worth a visit.
However, you can always head to the Old French Quarter or the Old Market if you want some evening entertainment.
Luxury Stay
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort – Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is set in peaceful landscaped gardens on the tree-lined Charles de Gaulle Street. Angkor Wat is a 10-minute drive away.
Templation Hotel – Located 3.3 km from Pub Street, the award-winning Templation Hotel features an outdoor pool and pool views. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant or have a drink at the bar. Wi-Fi is available. free everywhere.
Middle-budget
Tara Angkor Hotel – Tara Angkor Hotel is located in Siem Reap, just 500 metres from Angkor National Museum and 2.3 km from the lively Pub Street and Old Market. Angkor Wat is 5.4 km away. Mirepo 9.1 km.
Shining Angkor Apartment Hotel – The hotel is 2 km from Angkor Wat National Museum and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. The famous Pub Street is less than 3 km away, while Siem Reap International Airport is within walking distance. Only a 15-minute drive away with free airport transfers.
Budget Stay
UTEY Hotel – The air-conditioned rooms at the hotel are equipped with a desk, a kettle, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower.
Angkor Monument Hotel – Located opposite Angkor National Museum, Angkor Monument Hotel houses a restaurant, spa and 24-hour front desk.
5. PUB STREET
Want to party and explore Siem Reap at night? Well, I think you’ll love the bustling Pub Street.
As you might have guessed, this area is basically a street full of nightclubs and is very popular with backpackers, so you’re likely to meet lots of new and future friends here!
The good thing about the famous Pub Street is that it is located close to the old market and not far from the center of Siem Reap, so you can easily walk to any of the attractions there.
You won’t find any cultural or similar attractions here, but after the sun goes down the fun begins! That’s when everyone opens their doors, the night market begins and we drink!
Although the restaurants here are excellent, I would highly recommend trying the night market, it’s a must to go to any of these on a trip to Southeast Asia, and the atmosphere of this one is super unique! Plus, the food is absolutely delicious!
Luxury Stay
Central Suite Residence – Central Suite Residence offers accommodation amid the hustle and bustle of Sok San Road in Siem Reap. The hotel has an outdoor pool, and guests can dine at the on-site restaurant. Free Wi-Fi is available.
Middle-budget
Siem Reap City Angkor Boutique – Angkor Boutique Hotel Siem Reap features a restaurant, a bar and a shared lounge. and a garden in Siem Reap The accommodation offers family rooms and a terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free Wi-Fi.
Budget Stay
Steung Siemreap Hotel – Located next to the lively Pub Street, Steung Hotel is less than a 5-minute walk from Siem Reap River. Outdoor pool and gym.
Conclusion:
Are you already falling in love with Siem Reap and Cambodia? Well, at least now you are more than ready to make the best decision and choose the right neighborhood for you, be it a luxury resort or the best hostel.
We’ve already reviewed the best areas to stay in Siem Reap, as well as a list of the best resorts near the famous Angkor Wat temple, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.
I have searched all over the web for the most amazing hotels and what I have noticed is that they are all selling out fast! Especially the good ones, so book yours in advance and know your vacation is guaranteed!
You’ve now finished this super insightful guide to the best places to stay in Siem Reap! I know it was a lot to take in, but I always like to keep you posted. However, if I missed anything, just comment in the section below and I’ll get back to you ASAP.