Where To Stay In Siem Reap First Time 2024 - 6 Best Areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Siem Reap first time.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Siem Reap first time?
Where to stay in Siem Reap for couples?
Where to stay in Siem Reap for backpackers?
Where to stay in Siem Reap with family?
Where to stay in Siem Reap for nightlife?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Siem Reap
| Name of the area in Siem Reap | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
1. Old Market Area (Pub Street)* Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Located in the heart of Siem Reap, the Old Market Area is an area full of activity. It’s close to the famous Pub Street, where you can find plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops. Staying in this area provides easy access to the Old Market (Phsar Chas), Angkor Night Market, and the riverside. It’s the most convenient area in Siem Reap. *You can click on the purple or blue link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is slightly quieter than the Old Market Area but still within walking distance of Pub Street and other attractions. You’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere here while still being close to the action. |
3. Charles de Gaulle Road Area Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Situated a bit farther from the city center, Charles de Gaulle Road offers a quieter and more residential vibe. This area is ideal for those who prefer a quieter environment but still want easy access to Siem Reap’s attractions. It’s also close to the Angkor Archaeological Park entrance, making it convenient for visiting the temples. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Sivutha Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in Siem Reap, full of hotels, restaurants, and shops. Staying in this area provides convenient access to both the Old Market Area and the Angkor Archaeological Park. You’ll find a mix of accommodation options here, ranging from budget to luxury. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Taphul Village is another popular area for tourists, offering a range of guesthouses, boutique hotels, and backpacker hostels. It’s close to Pub Street and the Old Market Area but tends to be quieter and more relaxed. This area is also known for its affordable accommodation options. |
6. Angkor Archaeological Park Area Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | If you want to be as close as possible to the famous Angkor temples, consider staying near the entrance to the Angkor Archaeological Park. There are several luxury resorts and hotels in this area, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. While it’s a bit farther from the city center, it’s perfect for those prioritizing temple exploration. |
Where to stay in Siem Reap first time
The best areas to stay in Siem Reap for the first time are the Old Market area, the Wat Bo Road area, the Charles de Gaulle area, and the Sivutha Boulevard area.
Most tourists tend to stay around the Old Market area because this is the most bustling area of Siem Reap.
You can find plenty of restaurants, bars, shops and nightlife.
It’s an incredibly convenient area, but also a crowded one.
For a slightly quieter experience, consider staying in the nearby Wat Bo Road area.
An even quieter area is the Charles de Gaulle Road area, which is located farther away from the city center.
The Sivutha Boulevard area is another popular area that lies close to the Old Market area but feels more luxurious.
If you’re a backpacker, consider staying in the Taphul Village area, which is quieter than the Old Market area and full of affordable accommodation options.
For those seeking an upscale experience, stay in the Angkor Archeological Park area, where you can find many luxury resorts that offer views of the surrounding landscapes.
Where to stay in Siem Reap for couples
The best areas to stay in Siem Reap for couples are the Sivutha Boulevard area and the Angkor Archaeological Park area.
These two areas are more upscale and attract mostly families and couples, and not backpackers.
Couples who prefer to stay close to the tourist epicenter where you can find plenty of restaurants, bars, and a nice nightlife scene should stay in the Sivutha Boulevard area.
The Wat Bo Road area is also a great area for couples as you have great access to nature while staying in a quieter, and less bustling area.
Couples who want something luxurious and romantic should stay in the Angkor Archaeological Park area.
Where to stay in Siem Reap for backpackers
The best areas to stay in Siem Reap for backpackers are the Taphul Village area and the Old Market area.
These two areas are by far the most popular ones among backpackers.
The Taphul Village area is an area close to Pub Street that offers loads of affordable accommodation options.
The Old Market area is where you can find Pub Street, and is the nightlife epicenter of the city. It’s here where you will find plenty of like-minded travelers and affordable hotels and hostels.
Where to stay in Siem Reap with family
The best areas to stay in Siem Reap with family are the Charles de Gaulle Road area, the Sivutha Boulevard area, and the Angkor Archaeological Park area.
Families can stay closer to the Old Market Area because of its convenience, however, it attracts a lot of party-minded travellers that love to party on Pub Street.
So, staying in the quieter areas that are located close to this convenient area is therefore recommended.
The Charles de Gaulle Road area is the quiet alternative and very popular among families. Just keep in mind that you’re located further away from the city center.
The Sivutha Boulevard area is located more conveniently and you can find plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops here.
If your budget allows it, consider staying in the Angkor Archaeological Park area.
Here, you can find luxurious resorts with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and these hotels come with all the comforts your whole family can think of.
Where to stay in Siem Reap for nightlife
The best area to stay in Siem Reap for nightlife is the Old Market Area.
The Old Market Area is the nightlife epicenter of Siem Reap and here, you can find the famous Pub Street.
Alternatively, you can stay in one of the quieter surrounding areas, or even in the Sivutha Boulevard area.
The latter also offers a good variety of bars, but for the real Siem Reap nightlife experience, you have to visit Pub Street.
1. Old Market Area (Pub Street)
Without a doubt, the most popular area to stay in Siem Reap is the Old Market area.
It’s located right in the heart of the city and it’s the most convenient base for exploring Siem Reap’s main attractions.
You can walk from here to Pub Street, the main nightlife hub of the city.
But you can also walk from here to the Angkor Night Market and the riverside, a popular area for restaurants, bars, and shops.
The night market is a popular spot to experience authentic Khmer life as well as buy souvenirs.
When it comes to accommodation options, it’s fair to say that it’s diverse.
From budget guesthouses and hostels to boutique hotels and luxury resorts, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Nightlife enthusiasts should definitely stay here as you can find the so-called Pub Street here.
It’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Foodies should also get excited as you can find many local eateries and street food stalls here.
Tour operators are also located here to arrange visits to the temples.
Is there anything not to like about this area?
First of all, it’s a crowded area.
Secondly, the nightlife scene causes lots of noise.
And lastly, if you seek a quieter experience while being surrounded by nature, the Old Market area is not the right place for you.
But for the majority of the travellers, the Old Market area is by far the most convenient options with plenty of things to do!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Wat Bo Road Area
Unlike the bustling streets of the Old Market area, Wat Bo Road offers a quieter and more serene ambiance.
This makes it an ideal choice for couples or travelers seeking a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration.
While Wat Bo Road is quieter, it’s still within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride to the city center and major attractions like Pub Street, the Old Market, and the Angkor Night Market.
The area around Wat Bo Road is known for its charming streets lined with traditional Khmer-style buildings, boutique hotels, and beautiful greenery.
Despite its peaceful ambiance, Wat Bo Road offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort, a boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly guesthouse, you’ll find suitable options in this area.
Wat Bo Road is close to the Siem Reap River and several green spaces, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling, boat tours, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water.
It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with nature.
Just keep in mind that you’re located a bit away from the city center.
That also means that you won’t find much nightlife here and fewer restaurants.
The whole area lacks a bit of tourist infrastructure.
For that, you always need to go to the main area of Siem Reap, the Old Market area.
But for an authentic experience in Siem Reap, away from mass tourism, the Wat Bo Road area is highly recommended!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Charles de Gaulle Road area
Charles de Gaulle Road is located near the entrance to the Angkor Archaeological Park, making it an excellent choice for those who plan to explore the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and other historical sites.
As it reduces travel time to the temples, it’s much easier to catch sunrise views and beat the crowds.
Compared to the bustling city center, Charles de Gaulle Road offers a quieter and more residential atmosphere.
The surroundings of this area are impressive.
Many accommodations in this area offer beautiful gardens, swimming pools, and outdoor seating areas where you can relax and enjoy this natural scenery.
Charles de Gaulle Road is home to several luxury resorts that offer upscale amenities.
This makes it an incredibly popular area among families and couples.
While Charles de Gaulle Road offers a tranquil setting, it’s still within a short drive or tuk-tuk ride to Siem Reap town center.
Just keep in mind that you won’t find many dining and entertainment options compared to the tourist epicenter of the city.
If your budget allows it, staying here is a fantastic option.
Especially if you enjoy a stay that feels like the countryside.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Sivutha Boulevard area
Sivutha Boulevard is a major thoroughfare in Siem Reap, and visiting Siem Reap’s main attractions from here is a piece of cake.
It is within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride to popular areas such as Pub Street, the Old Market, and the Angkor Night Market.
Sivutha Boulevard is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores, providing easy access to amenities for you.
Whether you need to buy souvenirs, grab a quick bite to eat, or stock up on essentials, everything is within reach.
Despite being a bustling thoroughfare, Sivutha Boulevard still retains a sense of Cambodian culture and heritage.
Sivutha Boulevard serves as a transportation hub in Siem Reap, with many tour operators, tuk-tuk drivers, and transportation services available in the area.
This makes it easy for you to arrange tours, airport transfers, and transportation to the Angkor temples.
The Sivutha Boulevard area offers a good variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
You can choose from budget guesthouses, boutique hotels, and luxury resorts, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Keep in mind that due to its central location, the area does get noisy, especially during peak hours and at night.
Also, Being a major thoroughfare, Sivutha Boulevard does experience heavy traffic and pedestrian congestion.
But we can’t deny the fact that this area is incredibly convenient, especially when you want to stay in an area with great transportation options.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Taphul Village area
If you’re travelling on a strict(er) budget, then look no further.
Taphul Village is known for its budget-friendly accommodation options.
Compared to the bustling city center, Taphul Village offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere.
Despite its peaceful ambiance, Taphul Village is still within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride to the main attractions of Siem Reap, including Pub Street, the Old Market, and the Angkor Night Market.
Taphul Village retains a traditional Khmer charm, with narrow streets, local markets, and traditional Khmer architecture.
You can also find plenty of local restaurants that offer authentic Khmer food for a bargain.
The area is also a convenient area with plenty of convenience stores, pharmacies, and travel agencies.
But if you’re looking for something more upscale, this area is not for you.
Also, if you’re a backpacker and want to stay closer to the nightlife area, then consider staying in the Old Market area instead as you can find plenty of hostels there too.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Angkor Archaeological Park area
The Angkor Archaeological Park area is the complete opposite of the previously recommended area.
Those seeking a luxurious experience should definitely consider staying here, although you can also find affordable accommodation options here.
As the name already suggests, you’re located near the iconic temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and many others.
It’s therefore a great option to visit the temples in the early morning, avoiding the crowds and the heat.
The Angkor Archaeological area is not only home to magnificent temples but also offers beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and other scenic views.
Keep in mind that this area is located several kilometers outside of Siem Reap’s city center.
That means that you won’t find many dining and nightlife options.
Also, the area lacks modern amenities.
Luckily, the luxurious resorts offer all the comforts you need for a pleasant stay.
If you prioritize visiting the temples as early as possible, and your budget allows it, the Angkor Archaeological Park is a great option.
But the area requires more preparation compared to the more convenient areas.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Siem Reap in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.