Where to Stay in Siem Reap
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Kravan
Densely packed with affordable hostels and guesthouses, plus plenty of cheap eats.
See full Siem Reap neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Siem Reap
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Wat Bo Area
A balanced mix of local life, guesthouses, and restaurants away from the main tourist hustle.
Our top picks in Wat Bo Area
Kravan
The heart of Siem Reap's tourist activity, buzzing with nightlife and eateries.
Our top picks in Kravan
Charles de Gaulle Boulevard (Airport Road)
Home to larger resorts and hotels, offering a more tranquil escape closer to the airport.
Our top picks in Charles de Gaulle Boulevard (Airport Road)
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Wat Bo Area | Mid-range | A balanced mix of local life, guesthouses, and restaurants away from the main tourist hustle. | first-timerscouples |
Kravan | Mid-range | The heart of Siem Reap's tourist activity, buzzing with nightlife and eateries. | first-timersnightlife |
Charles de Gaulle Boulevard (Airport Road) | Luxury | Home to larger resorts and hotels, offering a more tranquil escape closer to the airport. | familiesluxury |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Siem Reap
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Siem Reap
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Siem Reap. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Siem Reap
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Siem Reap
Wat Bo Area
Mid-rangeA balanced mix of local life, guesthouses, and restaurants away from the main tourist hustle.
- +Quieter than the immediate Pub Street area
- +Good selection of restaurants and cafes
- +More authentic local feel
- -Can still get noisy at night
- -Further walk to some temples
Kravan
Mid-rangeThe heart of Siem Reap's tourist activity, buzzing with nightlife and eateries.
- +Central location for everything
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Easy access to tours and transport
- -Can be very noisy and crowded
- -Less authentic local experience
Charles de Gaulle Boulevard (Airport Road)
LuxuryHome to larger resorts and hotels, offering a more tranquil escape closer to the airport.
- +Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere
- +Larger hotel amenities
- +Convenient for airport access
- -Requires tuk-tuk or taxi to reach central attractions
- -Fewer local dining options nearby
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 20/day
Hidden Gems in Siem Reap
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Kromah Market (Old Market)
FREEDive into the heart of local life at this bustling market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local handicrafts to delicious street food. It's a fantastic place to soak in the authentic atmosphere and practice your bargaining skills.
Street 29
FREEThis street is lined with charming, locally-owned cafes and restaurants offering delicious Khmer cuisine away from the main tourist drag. It's a great place to explore for authentic flavors and a more local dining experience.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Siem Reap
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Siem Reap Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Siem Reap on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Siem Reap Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Siem Reap with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Siem Reap: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Siem Reap's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Siem Reap: Scenic Excursion
Escape Siem Reap for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Siem Reap Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Siem Reap's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Siem Reap
Backpackers in Siem Reap: FAQ
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