First Impressions

I have been to Siem Reap now on 2 occasions, once in 2017 and more recently in 2024. When I arrived on my latest trip, I was presented with a brand new airport, which had opened in October 2023. It was a significant upgrade from the previous one, providing a more modern and comfortable experience. However the airport was eerily quiet and looked as though it only had about 6 arrival flights that day, so was quite a surreal and peaceful experience compared to many of the other chaotic airports in Asia. I had already arranged my visa before I left, so just had to spend about 5 minutes filling out my arrival card in the airport and then I was through.

On exit, I was met with a number of taxi drivers offering to take me to the centre, and I agreed a fare of $27. The airport is however further out of the city centre to the old one, so it now takes you around 45-60 minutes to get to the centre.

Siem Reap is perhaps best known for the World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat, but the city also has a vibrant art scene, many bustling markets and an exciting nightlife to keep you occupied. So whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a keen explorer, Siem Reap has something for everyone.

Here’s my guide to making the most of your stay, highlighting some must see attractions, local experiences and 6 luxury hotels to consider.

Top Things To Do

1. The Angkor Archaeological Park

Number one on the list has to be the Angkor Archaeological Park. This ancient complex is home to some truly amazing temples, including:

• Angkor Wat: The main attraction and largest religious monument in the world. Would recommend visiting at sunrise to avoid the crowds and experience the sun illuminating the temple.

• Bayon Temple: Located in Angkor Thom, this temple is famous for its 200 enigmatic stone faces.

• Ta Prohm: Often referred to as the "Tomb Raider Temple" due to its appearance in the movie, this site is a surreal combination of nature and architecture, due to the trees intertwining out of the ruins.

Tip: Purchase a multi-day pass so you can explore at your own pace. Guided tours are a great way to gain an understanding and increase your knowledge as you wonder through each temple. Multi-day passes can be purchased from trip.com

2. The Cambodian Circus

For a fantastic cultural experience, it is well worth checking out a performance by Phare, The Cambodian Circus. This lively show demonstrates storytelling through acrobatics, dance and theatre.

3. The Floating Villages of Tonle Sap Lake

Just a short drive from Siem Reap is Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake, Tonle Sap Lake. Here you will experience the floating villages of Chong Kneas and Kampong Phluk.

4. The Landmine Museum and Relief Centre

This small but insightful museum highlights the devastating legacy of landmines in Cambodia and the efforts to clear them.

5. Artisans Angkor

At this workshop you can watch artisans create silk products, wood and stone carvings, and paintings. It’s a great place to buy authentic souvenirs.

6. Visit the Old Market and Night Markets

The Old Market (known as Psar Chaa) is a covered market offering everything from, clothing, fresh produce to handcrafted goods. The Angkor Night Market and Made in Cambodia Market are great to visit in the evening with colourful stalls, live music, and food vendors.

7. Exciting Nightlife

Pub Street is the main nightlife area to visit, where there is a lively crossroads of bars, restaurants and music, offering everything from rooftop lounges to lively pubs. If you prefer a more peaceful setting, there are numerous nearby alleyways, with a mix of cocktail bars and traditional restaurants serving some great Cambodian cuisine.

Where to Stay

Siem Reap caters to every budget, offering a wide range of accommodation, but if you are looking for luxury on your trip, here are 6 high end hotels to consider;

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

Khum, Preah Sihanouk Ave, Krong Siem Reap 17251

Overview

• Rating: 5 Star

• Location: Central location, close to Angkor Wat and Siem Reap’s markets.

• Rooms: Total of 119 elegantly appointed rooms, with high end amenities. Many rooms have views of the hotel’s swimming pool or the royal gardens.

• Dining: Variety of options, from fine dining at Restaurant Le Grand to al fresco dining at the Poolside Terrace and a historic Elephant Bar.

• Facilities: A 35 metre pool, Raffles spa and gym.

• Design: A blend of French colonial and traditional Khmer design, with an iconic 1930s cage elevator and a curated collection of antiques and artwork.

• Service: The service is impeccable, with a high attention to detail, professionalism and warmth.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is an iconic property in Siem Reap, which is steeped in history and charm. This colonial style hotel, was established in 1932, and features a blend of heritage and modern luxury.

The hotel is well located, not far from the city centre and just a few minutes by tuktuk from Angkor Wat. The property features meticulously restored interiors, beautiful gardens and first class amenities. While the historic charm is a selling point, some areas of the property might feel slightly dated compared to some newer luxury hotels in the area, but this is down to individual tastes and depends on what you're looking for.

The cost is certainly on the higher end of the scale for hotels in Siem Reap, but the first class service, prime location, and elegance of the hotel, can make it worth the extra cost if you are looking for this type of experience on your trip.

Price Range:

Approximately $350 to $600 per night. Rates will vary depending on time of year and room type (Suites and villa accommodations can exceed this range).

The Park Hyatt

Sivutha Blvd, Krong Siem Reap 17252

Overview

• Rating: 5 Star

• Location: Centrally located near Pub Street, the Old Market, and a short drive from Angkor Wat.

• Rooms: 104 spacious rooms and suites with high end furnishings, luxury bathrooms, and first class amenities.

• Dining: Options include The Dining Room, which serves Khmer and Western dishes, and The Living Room, offering light bites and cocktails.

• Facilities: Two swimming pools, spa and 24 hour gym.

• Design: Modern interiors, with a blend of art deco and Khmer architecture.

• Service: Staff are very welcoming, friendly and professional, giving a personalised service.

The Park Hyatt is an absolutely stunning 5 star hotel in Siem Reap, in a great central location. The hotel is beautifully designed throughout, from the lush courtyards, to the well appointed rooms, with high end amenities and extremely comfortable beds. Meals are outstanding at the hotel, particularly the breakfast.

Staff provide an incredible friendly service, going above and beyond to help. The Park Hyatt is definitely a top choice for hotels in Siem Reap.

Price Range

Approximately $250 to $450 per night. Rates will vary depending on the time of year and room type (Suites with upgraded features and amenities can exceed this range).

Anantara Angkor Resort

Phum Krous, No.64 National Road 06, Krong Siem Reap 17252

Overview

• Rating: 5 Star

• Location: Slightly away from the centre, but only 10 minute drive to Angkor Wat and some of Siem Reap’s main attractions, like Pub Street and The Old Market.

• Rooms: 39 spacious suites, with beautifully hand carved furniture, terrazzo bathtubs and private terraces.

• Dining: Two restaurants, including Chi Restaurant & Bar, offering Khmer inspired fine dining and L Lounge, an all day deli over looking the courtyard. Private dining options are also available at the resort.

• Facilities: A saltwater swimming pool, luxury spa, gym, and a dedicated butler service.

• Design: Inspired by traditional Khmer architecture, featuring open courtyards and elegantly designed interiors.

• Service: Very professional and personalised service, which includes a dedicated butler.

Anantara Angkor Resort is a stunning luxury boutique hotel, which offers a more exclusive and private feel, having only 39 suites. These suites are large, with plenty of space and beautifully designed, including hand carved furniture. The pool is absolutely lovely and a great place to chill out and relax.

One draw back for me is that it is not as close to the city centre as other hotels mentioned in this list, but most attractions are accessible within a 10-15 minute drive by tuktuk. Otherwise, if you want a more exclusive and peaceful retreat for your stay, then Anantara Angkor Resort is a great choice.

Price Range

Approximately $250 to $500 per night. Rates will vary depending on the time of year and suite type.

Courtyard by Marriot

0609 Road 6A, Sala Kamreuk, Siem Reap 171201

Overview

• Rating: 5 Star

• Location: Situated in a quieter part of Siem Reap, approximately 15 minute drive to Angkor Wat and 10 minutes to Pub Street.

• Rooms: Spacious rooms, with very comfortable beds, high end amenities and private balconies overlooking gardens or pool.

• Dining: The hotel’s Lok Lak restaurant serves a mix of local Khmer and international food, while the rooftop bar offers good choice of drinks with stunning sunset views.

• Facilities: Outdoor pool, 24 hour gym, spa, kids club and conference facilities.

• Design: Modern and sleek with some small Khmer design elements. Very clean look.

• Service: Service from the staff at this hotel is excellent. Very helpful and friendly.

The Courtyard by Marriott is a very modern and stylish hotel, located in the quiet Sala Kamreuk part of Siem Reap, just a short drive from the centre and Angkor Wat. The hotel has great facilities, with a good size outdoor pool, well equipped gym, conference facilities and is well suited to families with a kids club available. The food options are good and the breakfast buffet is highly recommended.

Rooms are spacious and modern, with a very clean look and high end amenities. Is a very comfortable stay. While offering high standards, The Courtyard is more competitively priced compared to other luxury hotels in the area. So is more of an affordable luxury.

Price Range

Approximately $120 to $250 per night. Rates will vary depending on the time of year and room type.

Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort

Vithei Preah Sihanouk Ave, Krong Siem Reap 17259

Overview

• Rating: 5 Star

• Location: Situated near Angkor Wat and approximately a 10 minute drive to the city centre and Pub Street.

• Rooms: 238 spacious rooms and suites that are elegantly decorated, with comfortable bedding, and private terraces.

• Dining: Multiple dining options, including Mouhot’s Dream (French cuisine), The Citadel (International buffets) and Explorer’s Tales lounge for cocktails.

• Facilities: A large swimming pool, spa, gym and an 18 hole golf course at Phokeethra Country Club.

• Design: French colonial architecture blended with Khmer heritage.

• Service: The staff are very attentive, professional and super friendly.

The Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is a luxury 5 star retreat, that is located very close to Angkor Wat, literally only a 5 minute drive away. The resort is surrounded by tropical gardens, with beautiful water features, and there is an on site 18 hole golf course to enjoy a game on.

The hotel has a very elegant traditional design, with all rooms being a generous size and featuring high end amenities. Staff are very polite and helpful, going out of their way to assist you. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra is a great choice if you are a keen golfer or enjoying staying in luxury resort style hotels.

Price Range

Approximately $200 to $400 per night. Rates will vary depending on the time of year and room type (Suites and premium packages can exceed this range).

Viroth's Hotel

Street 24, Wat Bo Rd, Siem Reap, 171204

Overview

• Rating: 4 Star

• Location: Located in the Wat Bo area, a short walk (approximately 10 mins) from Pub Street and the Old Market.

• Rooms: 35 stylish rooms and suites, with sleek furniture and spacious bathrooms.

• Dining: Inhouse restaurant serving a selection of Khmer and international dishes, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

• Facilities: A 20 metre long saltwater pool, small spa and a rooftop terrace.

• Design: Elegant 1950s style modern decor, combined with some thoughtful Khmer touches.

• Service: The staff are extremely welcoming, warm and attentive.

Viroth’s is a chic boutique style hotel, with a modernistic design having great attention to detail and a very peaceful ambiance. The hotel was actually voted #1 on Tripadvisor as the travellers choice Top Hotel In The World in 2020, and you can see why. With its intimate vibe, boutique elegance and outstanding super friendly service from the staff. The 20 metre long outdoor pool is a real highlight as well.

For the level of luxury and service offered, Viroth’s Hotel provides excellent value compared to other high end properties in the area.

Price Range

Approximately $120 to $200 per night. Rates will vary depending on the time of year and room type.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: November to March is the dry season, offering cooler weather ideal for exploring.

• Getting Around: Tuktuks are the most convenient and affordable way to travel. Highly recommend negotiating the price before starting your journey. Grab is also available in Cambodia.

• What to Pack: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, water bottle,and comfortable shoes are essential.

• Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples, and be mindful of local customs.

• Money: The official currency is the Cambodian Riel, but the US Dollar is widely accepted

• Visa: Many countries will require a visa to enter Cambodia, this can be done on arrival or prior to departure via the following link e-visa