Old Market, riverside or Wat Bo: choosing a Siem Reap base

Most visitors to Siem Reap stay in one of three central areas: the Old Market, the riverside or the Wat Bo neighbourhood. They're all within walking distance of each other, but the atmosphere varies a lot from street to street.

Old Market (Psar Chas)

What it's like: the busiest area, with the Old Market itself, Pub Street, restaurants, bars, massage shops and souvenir stalls.

Pros: you can walk everywhere for food and nightlife, and tuk-tuks are always nearby.

Cons: noise from bars and music, especially on and around Pub Street, often until late. Touts can be persistent.

Best for: social travellers and short stays.

Riverside

What it's like: hotels and guesthouses along both banks of the Siem Reap river, linked by small bridges.

Pros: central yet calmer than Pub Street, with pleasant walks along the river.

Cons: some hotels face busy roads.

Best for: first-time visitors who want convenience without too much noise.

Wat Bo

What it's like: a neighbourhood east of the river around Wat Bo pagoda, known for its 19th-century murals.

Pros: quieter streets, boutique hotels, guesthouses, cafes and local restaurants. It's still within a 10 to 15-minute walk of the Old Market.

Cons: fewer large hotels, and some streets have limited lighting at night.

Best for: couples, families and longer stays.

How to decide

• If nightlife is a priority, stay near the Old Market.
• If you want quiet nights but easy access, choose Wat Bo or the riverside.
• If you're travelling with children, look for hotels with pools in Wat Bo or the riverside.

Tips

• Check how far your hotel is from Pub Street; even a few blocks makes a difference.
• Ask whether the hotel offers free tuk-tuk transfers.
• Use recent reviews to check noise levels.

Frequently asked questions

Which area is best for families?

Wat Bo and the riverside, where hotels with pools and quieter streets make evenings easier with children.