Indagare Matchmaker: Siem Reap

Well known for its UNESCO World-Heritage compounds from the Khmer kings in 800 – 1400 AD as well as its more recent and brutal history under the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s, Siem Reap plays host to an incredible (and increasing) number of visitors each year. The city’s top properties all offer slightly different experiences: here’s what to know —and where to book.

Contact Indagare for assistance planning a vacation to Siem Reap. Our specialists can book you at the hotel that is right for you and plan great touring itineraries.

Amansara: The Intimate, Sleek One

Tucked away on a side street in central Siem Reap, the 24-suite Amansara offers a sleek, quiet and very intimate experience with a focus on excellent service and food. It is the only luxury property in Siem Reap that includes touring in the nightly rate. Read Indagare's review of Amansara.

Vibe: minimalist, quiet, retreat Best For: Aman junkies, romantic honeymooners and high luxury travelers who want immaculate service, a hushed atmosphere, excellent food and touring included. Families with children or those who need space or a lively atmosphere will be happier elsewhere. Room to Book: The pool suites offer a private pool in their courtyards. Keep in Mind: The hotel is small and very quiet. Families with children or those who crave buzz or space to run around may feel cooped up.

Park Hyatt: The Branded, Family-Friendly One

With 104 contemporary rooms and suites on a busy corner in central Siem Reap, the Park Hyatt offers a comfortable, full-service home base for families with children. The hotel is a great option for those who want to have facilities at hand, the liveliness of other guests around and be within walking distance of the market and restaurants. Read Indagare's review of Park Hyatt Siem Reap.

Vibe: full-service, urban, family-friendly Best For: Families or individuals who want multiple dining venues, a large pool, a big spa and 24-hour gym and don’t mind a slightly corporate aesthetic. Room to Book: The Rooftop Garden Suites are located on the top floor of the hotel with a private garden separating the living and bedroom. The Two-Bedroom Pool Suites are located on the ground floor and have their own private plunge pools and courtyards. Keep in Mind: This hotel is a very good, full-service and centrally-located option for families and couples. Those who want something with more of a sense of place should consider the Belmond Residence D’Angkor or Phum Baitang.

Related: Reflecting on Siem Reap

Belmond La Residence d'Angkor: The Khmer-Style Central One

The recently refreshed Belmond La Residence D’Angkor is a full-service retreat on the river in central Siem Reap. The property is beloved for its sense of place. Read Indagare's review of Belmond La Residence D'Angkor.

Vibe: Traditional, full-service, centrally located Best For: Those looking for a well-located property that has more space than Amansara and more character than the Park Hyatt. The traditional Khmer-style architecture and wood accents throughout the property evoke a sense of place, and the amenities (including a pool, gym and boutique) are great for families with children who want to be within walking distance of the Old Market and restaurants. Room to Book: The one-bedroom Pool Suites surround the pool and offer their own living areas and private terraces. Keep in mind: Belmond La Residence D’Angkor is the most recently renovated luxury property in central Siem Reap.

Phum Baitang: The Retreat with a Sense of Place

Located about a 10-minute drive from central Siem Reap, Phum Baitang offers a Cambodian village–style hotel experience at a super-luxe level. Read Indagare's review of Phum Baitang.

Vibe: intimate, rustic, hideaway Best For: Couples or families looking for a totally unique and luxurious experience at a property designed like a traditional Khmer-style village. Guests need to be ok with staying outside of town. Room to Book: Some villas have their own private pools Keep in Mind: The property is spread out like a traditional village around rice paddies, so it is not the best choice for those with mobility issues. 

Related: A Spiritual Journey through Cambodia

Shinta Mani: The One with Heart

Backed by the Shinta Mani Foundation (which supports the local community through micro-finance loans and hospitality training) and designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley, this boutique property offers great value. The 99 rooms spread out between two properties in central Siem Reap are done in contemporary décor. Read Indagare's review of Shinta Mani.

Vibe: understated, personal, contemporary Best For: Shinta Mani is great value for those who want to be at a hotel with a philanthropic element and don’t require the highest level of luxury. Room to Book: The Deluxe Living Rooms at the Shinta Mani Club or a junior suite at the Shinta Mani Resort. Keep in Mind: The property has both a small five-star club on one side of the street and larger four-star resort on the other side with more rooms and a bigger pool. The Indagare Team can help determine whether the club or resort is best for you.

Related: Indagare Insider Trip: Cambodia

Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor: The Old-School Historic One

Built in the 1930’s and set within 15 acres of landscaped gardens in central Siem Reap, the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor remains the city’s colonial, grand dame from the days when elephants would drop guests off at the back stairs. Read Indagare's review of Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor.

Vibe: traditional, historic, sprawling grounds Best For: Couples who want to be surrounded by history and families that would appreciate a two-bedroom villa near the pool as well as space to run around. Room to Book: The two-bedroom villas offer a private poolside setting and personal butlers. Keep in Mind: The Raffles Grand Hotel retains the elegance and décor of a previous era – those who prefer sleek design or fresher aesthetic should consider Amansara, Belmond D’Angkor or Phum Baitang.