Photo: Belmond Hotels

Siem Reap Luxury: Where to Stay When Visiting Angkor Wat

Epic Stays
by Katie Scott Aiton Nov 3, 2023

Staying at a hotel in Siem Reap offers the perfect base for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Angkor Wat. Waking up in the heart of the beautiful city, you’ll be just a short ride away from the world’s largest religious monument. Angkor Wat, which translates to “City of Temples,” fell into disuse and was largely covered by the jungle after the fall of the Khmer Empire in the 15th century. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and has since become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. Due to its splendor and size (over 400 acres), you’ll want to spend at least one, if not more, trekking through the ancient ruins, so it’s worth basing yourself in Siem Reap overnight. You shouldn’t rush through Siem Reap (or northern Cambodia in general) either — it’s an incredible place packed with excellent Khmer and international restaurants, live music venues, cocktail bars, and superb spas. It’s also home to some of the best hotels in the Kingdom. Here are the top Siem Reap hotels selected for exceptional level of service, amenities, and accommodation options.

What is the best time to go to Angkor Wat?

The best time to visit Angkor Wat is generally during the dry season, which runs from November through March. This period offers cooler days, making exploring the ancient temple complex more comfortable. However, this is also the most crowded time due to its popularity. If you prefer a quieter experience, June through October might be a better choice. This period is hotter and wetter, with frequent afternoon storms, making mornings the optimal time for exploration.

How many days in Siem Reap is enough?

Three to four days is enough time to explore the major attractions. In this time frame, you can visit Angkor Wat, explore other temples in the Angkor complex like Bayon and Ta Prohm, take a trip to the Tonle Sap Lake, and also enjoy the local markets and cuisine.

We hope you love the Siem Reap hotels we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap

Photo: Hyatt
Photo: Hyatt
Photo: Hyatt

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The Park Hyatt Siem Reap is as central as you can get. It’s the only luxury hotel in the center of town and is a few minutes’ walk from the Old Market, a quick 15-minute drive from Siem Reap International Airport, and a mere 20 minutes from the temples of Angkor Wat. There are 104 rooms and suites to choose from. If budget allows, opt for the Park Suite King for a spacious living area and a private garden view veranda, or indulge in the opulent Presidential Suite with a plunge pool and garden. Service is impeccable, and during high seasons, guests can enjoy free traditional torch-lit Apsara dance performances over dinner or a drink. Everything at the Park Hyatt is over the top, including the two swimming pools. The larger is a collection of small interconnecting pools traversed by a bridge, and there’s a saltwater swimming pool, ideal for families. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the hotel can organize a temple dinner for groups and families within the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Park Hyatt Siem Reap : Sivutha Blvd, Krong Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia

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Jaya House River Park

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Jaya House River Park is the country’s first plastic-free hotel. Set along the peaceful Siem Reap River, guests can make their way into the city on a ten-minute ride in the complimentary tuk-tuk. It’s also the same distance to Angkor Archaeological Park. The boutique hideaway has 36 rooms, each offering a perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional Khmer design elements. You’ll feel the spirit of Cambodia in every corner, from the locally made artwork adorning the walls to the sustainable bamboo straws used in the bar. At around $200 per night for a Deluxe Room, you can enjoy perks like a private balcony overlooking the lush gardens or the shimmering pool, a rain shower, and a complimentary mini-bar. If you’re willing to splurge, the Junior Suite, priced at around $250, offers a spacious living area and a private plunge pool. The hotel’s restaurant, Tror Kuon, plates an array of Khmer dishes, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. And don’t miss the rooftop Sky Bar for a happy hour sundowner.

Jaya House River Park : River Rd, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

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Phum Baitang

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For those who prefer a quiet and rural stay, Phum Baitang luxury resort is perfect. It’s still only a 20-minute tuk-tuk or car ride to the Angkor ruins, but the location on 20 acres of lush jungle, fragrant lemongrass, and paddy fields is more peaceful than other Siem Reap hotels. Each of the resort’s 45 private terrace and pool villas are modeled after traditional stilted farmhouses, with wooden structures that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Some villas even feature private pools. There’s also a stunning freeform 50 meter saltwater swimming pool that offers epic views over the property. There’s a reason why Angelina Jolie rented out the entire resort in 2015 — it really does not get more opulent or authentically traditional than the Phum Baitang.

Phum Baitang : Neelka Way Sangkat, Krong Siem Reap 17252, Cambodia

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Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor

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Dating back to the 1930s, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has hosted the likes of Charlie Chaplin, the Clintons, and Michelle Obama. The hotel is a destination in itself and provides an ideal base for your explorations of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The hotel’s elegant façade, reminiscent of French colonial architecture, and the lobby, adorned with black and white marble floors, exude an air of sophistication and grandeur that sets the tone for your stay. Raffles is a landmark in Siem Reap. It faces the Royal Gardens in the leafy French Quarter close to the river. Rooms are opulently decorated with darkwood floors and historic prints on the walls. You can choose from State Rooms, Landmark Rooms, Colonial Suites, or Personality Suites, depending on your preference and budget. The rates start from around $350 per night for a State Room, making it a viable option for various budgets.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor : Khum, 1 Vithei, Charles De Gaulle, 17251, Cambodia

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Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor

Photo: Belmond Hotels
Photo: Belmond Hotels
Photo: Belmond Hotels

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Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor is set in tropical gardens, with the Siem Reap River adding to the serene setting. The tranquil resort serves as a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the nearby temples of Angkor Wat. It’s a 10-minute stroll from Siem Reap’s excellent restaurants and under 10 minutes to Angkor Archaeological Park. Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor is known for its exceptional on-site dining. The indoor-outdoor Spice Circle is an all-day restaurant that serves local Khmer dishes such as green papaya salad, beef lok lak, and fish amok. Ember is more casual, offering light meals and poolside dining. Martini Lounge, as the name suggests, is a perfect spot to unwind with a wide selection of cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Belmond La Résidence d’Angkor : River Rd, Krong Siem Reap 93101, Cambodia

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Templation

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Templation has fantastic eco-credentials, exceptional service, lush greenery, and an epic pool. Situated just a short drive from the town center and the monumental Angkor Wat, Templation offers an oasis of tranquility during your exploration of northwestern Cambodia. With its peaceful surroundings and minimalist yet luxurious villas, this is your usual cookie-cutter hotel stay. The accommodation options come in various sizes. The 21 villas provide a private retreat, complete with a plunge pool and garden. The interiors are tastefully decorated, reflecting the local culture (with a Japanese twist) while maintaining a chic, modern aesthetic. Prices range from $120 to $350 per night, depending on the size and type of villa you choose.

Templation : Rte du petit pont, Siem Reap 17251, Cambodia

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Shinta Mani Angkor

Photo: Belmond Hotels
Photo: Shinta Mani Angkor
Photo: Shinta Mani Angkor

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A small, carefully designed luxury boutique hotel, Shinta Mani Angkor is in the leafy French Quarter of Siem Reap. The interiors are tastefully designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, showcasing his vision of modern Cambodian elegance. Large canvasses of contemporary Khmer art and photography adorn the walls, and the 39 rooms are compact yet elegant. The hotel runs a foundation, contributing to the local community through education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. As a guest, you’ll not only enjoy a luxurious stay but also contribute to supporting the people of Siem Reap province. The hotel has a seven-course tasting menu, which is pricy but worth the splurge. You can enjoy this indoors with air conditioning or on suspended floating cushioned platforms that look out over the bustling street below.

Shinta Mani Angkor : Oum Khun St and 14th street, 00000 Shinta Mani St, Krong Siem Reap, Cambodia

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