Where to stay in Siem Reap: areas compared
Old Market, riverside, Wat Bo or the outskirts? Here's how Siem Reap's main areas compare for temple trips, nightlife, families and quiet stays.
In this guide
Siem Reap is a compact town, and wherever you stay you'll be within a short ride of the Angkor temples. Still, each area has a different feel. Here's how to choose.
At a glance
| Area | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Market and Pub Street | Nightlife, first-time visitors | Walk to restaurants and bars | Noise late at night |
| Riverside | Easy access, mid-range hotels | Central but calmer | Some busy roads |
| Wat Bo | Quieter stays, cafes | Close to the centre, relaxed | Fewer big hotels |
| Road to Angkor (Charles de Gaulle area) | Large hotels, temples | Closest to Angkor | Further from town centre |
| Outskirts and countryside | Peace, pool villas | Space, greenery | Need transport for everything |
Old Market and Pub Street
The busiest part of town, full of restaurants, bars and shops. Great for walking to dinner and nightlife, but rooms near Pub Street can be noisy until late.
Riverside
Hotels along the Siem Reap river are central yet quieter than the Old Market. The riverside paths are pleasant for walks.
Wat Bo
East of the river, the Wat Bo area has guesthouses, boutique hotels and cafes on calmer streets, within walking distance of the centre.
Road to Angkor
Larger hotels and resorts line the road towards the temples. It's convenient for early starts and close to the ticket office, but you'll need transport into town.
Outskirts and countryside
Boutique villas and resorts surrounded by rice fields offer peace and space. Many provide free tuk-tuk transfers into town.
Tips for choosing
- Short stay: Old Market or riverside.
- Families: hotels with pools in Wat Bo or the riverside.
- Couples and quiet: countryside villas or Wat Bo.
- Early temple starts: the road to Angkor or anywhere with a reliable tuk-tuk arrangement.
Before you book
- Ask about free tuk-tuk transfers or bicycles.
- Check the distance to Pub Street if you're sensitive to noise.
- The new airport is far from town; check transfer options.
Frequently asked questions
How far are hotels from Angkor Wat?
Most central hotels are around 15 to 20 minutes from Angkor Wat by tuk-tuk, and hotels on the road to Angkor are closer.