The best areas to stay in Siem Reap are Siem Riep City Center, Wat Bo Road, Old French Quarter, Wat Damnak, Sala Kamreuk, and Sok Sak Road.
This might be a bit of a confusing answer to your question about where to stay in Siem Reap.
But don’t worry, because, in this article, we cover what we believe are the best areas to stay in Siem Reap, regarding the type of traveller you are.
If you want to go straight to the recommendations, tap on the following button.
Or simply continue reading if you want to know just a bit more about Siem Reap.
Known as the gateway to the majestic Angkor temples, Siem Reap offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Siem Reap is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage site, the Angkor Archaeological Park.
This vast complex features ancient temples, including the iconic Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm.
Exploring these magnificent structures, adorned with intricate carvings and steeped in rich history, is a captivating experience.
Siem Reap offers a deep immersion into Cambodian culture.
Beyond the temples, visitors can discover traditional markets, interact with friendly locals, and witness traditional performances like the Apsara dance.
The city’s vibrant arts scene, with galleries and workshops, showcases Cambodia’s creative talents.
Siem Reap is known for its warm and welcoming locals who often go the extra mile to ensure visitors have a memorable stay.
The genuine smiles, friendly conversations, and hospitality of the people contribute to the overall charm of the city.
Siem Reap boasts natural beauty beyond its archaeological wonders.
The nearby Tonle Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, offers stunning sunsets and the opportunity to explore floating villages.
The countryside is dotted with rice paddies, lush landscapes, and scenic rural villages.
Siem Reap’s cuisine is a treat for food enthusiasts.
From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, the city offers a range of flavors, including Khmer dishes and international cuisine.
Trying local delicacies, such as amok curry or fish fresh from the Mekong River, is an absolute must.
With so many things to offer, it’s a bit challenging to pick the right area for you.
We’ve come up with a list of recommended areas to make things easier for you.
Each of the recommended areas comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which are summarized after each paragraph.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Siem Reap? Keep reading!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Siem Reap
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| Where to stay in Siem Reap | What’s so special about this area? |
|---|---|
| 1. Siem Reap City Center | This is the heart of the city and offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Staying in the city center provides easy access to restaurants, markets, shops, and nightlife. It’s also convenient for visiting the Angkor Archaeological Park. |
| Located just outside the city center, Wat Bo Road is a quieter area that offers a mix of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and resorts. It provides a more tranquil atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the city center’s attractions. | |
| 3. Old French Quarter | This area, also known as the Kandal Village, features charming colonial architecture and boutique hotels. It’s a trendy neighborhood with art galleries, boutiques, and stylish cafes. The Old French Quarter is located within walking distance of the city center and offers a unique atmosphere. |
| 4. Wat Damnak | Situated near the Old Market and Pub Street, Wat Damnak is a popular area for tourists. It has a vibrant atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find a range of accommodation options here, including budget-friendly guesthouses and upscale boutique hotels. |
| 5. Sala Kamreuk | Located northeast of the city center, Sala Kamreuk is a quieter residential area with a mix of guesthouses and small hotels. It’s a good option for those looking for a peaceful environment while still being within a short distance from the city’s main attractions. |
| 6. Sok San Road | If you’re seeking a lively atmosphere with a variety of bars, restaurants, and street food, Sok San Road is a great choice. It’s a vibrant area popular among backpackers and budget travelers. The road is just a short walk from Pub Street and the Night Market. |
How to get around in Siem Reap as a tourist?
Tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in Siem Reap.
These three-wheeled vehicles can be found throughout the city, and you can easily flag one down or arrange for a tuk-tuk driver to pick you up from your accommodation.
Negotiate the fare before getting in, as tuk-tuks usually don’t have meters.
Tuk-tuks are great for short trips within the city or for visiting the Angkor temples.
It’s most definitely possible to hire a tuk-tuk driver for a day and many of them can guide you through the Angkor Wat complex.
Siem Reap is a relatively small city, and cycling is a popular way to get around, especially for shorter distances.
Many guesthouses and hotels offer bicycle rentals, and you can also find numerous shops renting bicycles in the city center.
Cycling allows you to explore at your own pace and discover hidden corners of Siem Reap.
If you have experience riding motorbikes and are comfortable with local traffic conditions, renting a motorbike can be an option.
Several rental shops in Siem Reap offer motorbikes for daily or weekly rentals.
Remorks are similar to tuk-tuks but have a trailer attached to a motorbike.
They are a larger and more spacious option compared to regular tuk-tuks.
Remorks are suitable for longer distances or when traveling with a group or carrying more luggage.
If you prefer a more private and comfortable means of transportation, you can hire a private car with a driver.
This option is especially convenient if you’re traveling with a group or have specific itineraries and schedules.
Siem Reap’s city center is relatively compact, and many attractions, restaurants, and markets are within walking distance of each other.
Walking is an excellent way to soak in the local atmosphere and explore the streets at a leisurely pace.
What is the best time of the year to visit Siem Reap?
The best time to visit Siem Reap is during the dry season, which generally spans from November to March.
During this period, you can expect comfortable temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for exploring the city and its attractions.
Specifically, December and January tend to be the coolest months, making it pleasant to explore the temples and outdoor sites.
In contrast, the wet season in Siem Reap extends from May to October, characterized by higher temperatures, increased humidity, and regular rainfall, with the peak of the monsoon occurring from June to August.
While the wet season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, it can also result in muddy roads, flooded areas, and limited access to certain temples or attractions.
However, the rain showers are often brief and intermittent, so it’s still possible to enjoy Siem Reap during this time.
It’s worth noting that the temple complex of Angkor Wat can be quite crowded throughout the year, regardless of the season.
To avoid the largest crowds, consider visiting the temples early in the morning or later in the afternoon when tourist numbers tend to be lower.
The best areas to stay in Siem Reap are:
1. Siem Reap City Center
The city center is the bustling heart of Siem Reap, offering a wide range of accommodation options and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
It’s a vibrant area with a lively atmosphere, filled with markets, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Staying in the city center allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the bustling streets.
It’s also conveniently located near the Angkor Archaeological Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the ancient temples.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Wat Bo Road
Wat Bo Road is a quieter area located just outside the city center.
It offers a more peaceful and laid-back atmosphere while still being within walking distance of the city’s main attractions.
The road is lined with beautiful trees, boutique hotels, and guesthouses.
It’s a great option for travelers looking for a tranquil retreat while still being close to the action.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Old French Quarter (Kandal Village)
The Old French Quarter, also known as Kandal Village, is a charming neighborhood with beautiful colonial architecture.
It’s a trendy area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and stylish cafes.
Staying in the Old French Quarter offers a unique experience as you can explore the quaint streets and discover hidden gems.
It’s a great choice for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Wat Damnak
Wat Damnak is a popular area located near the Old Market and Pub Street, making it convenient for dining, shopping, and nightlife.
It offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore.
You can also visit the nearby Wat Damnak temple, which adds a cultural touch to the area.
Staying in Wat Damnak provides a great balance between being close to the city’s main attractions and having a lively neighborhood to explore.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Sala Kamreuk
Sala Kamreuk is a residential area located northeast of the city center.
It offers a more peaceful and residential environment compared to the busier parts of Siem Reap.
It’s a good option for those looking for a quiet retreat and a more authentic local experience.
Despite its calm atmosphere, it’s still within a short distance from the city’s main attractions and offers a range of guesthouses and small hotels to choose from.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Sok San Road
Sok San Road is a lively area popular among backpackers and budget travelers.
It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, street food stalls, and a variety of bars and restaurants.
Staying on Sok San Road gives you a chance to experience the energetic and bustling side of Siem Reap.
It’s just a short walk from Pub Street and the Night Market, ensuring you’re never too far from the action.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Siem Reap
The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Siem Reap including its highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Siem Reap.
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