Where to Stay on a Budget in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Go wild at this fun-loving, community-centric hostel in the heart of the city. Mad Monkey Siem Reap offers mixed and female-only dorms that are clean, spacious and comfortable, with each bunk featuring larger-than-average beds. Solo traveller? You’ll never be short of company here, as the hostel has many communal spaces, including a large swimming pool and a rooftop beach bar with real sand. The party continues on Pub Street, a lively stretch of bars just eight minutes away on foot.

Founded in Thailand, this boutique hostel chain has brought its cheery, convivial vibe to Siem Reap. With a mix of private rooms and shared dorms, Lub d is a great option for solo travellers and cost-conscious couples alike. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the poolside restaurant before exploring the nearby Heritage Walk and Pub Street. For those who prefer discovering the city on two wheels, the hostel also has bicycles to rent.

This upmarket hostel offers not one but two swimming pools – including a stunning lap pool on the rooftop overlooking the city skyline. Choose from mixed or female-only dorms and even a private room with an ensuite; all feature the all-important air conditioning and clean, comfortable bed linens. For those looking to pick up a souvenir, the hostel sits next to the Angkor Night Market.

With a name like Pool Party Hostel, you know the swimming pool will be an event – and it’s not hard to see why. The oversize pool includes a swim-up bar where you can enjoy your favourite cocktails and a deck with various sun loungers and hammocks, perfect for relaxing. Within the hostel, there are six-, 12- or 14-person dorms and private rooms if you prefer having a bit more space. Although the interior design is minimal, the rooms are clean and comfortable, ensuring you get extra bang for your buck.

It’s hard to miss this hostel, with its colourful and eye-catching facade. Inside, you’ll find a beautifully designed lobby and a large infinity pool on the rooftop. Designed with Gen Z and millennial travellers in mind, this funky stay features tastefully decorated dorms and private rooms. The latter even includes amenities such as flat-screen TVs and private balconies.

Surrounded by a tropical garden, this tranquil resort is just outside the hubbub of central Siem Reap, making it ideal for those looking for a peaceful stay after touring the temples. Whether you’re travelling alone or with young ones in tow, the hotel offers everything from single rooms to large family cabanas. The restaurant serves Khmer, Asian and Western classics, while those looking for some pampering can head to the spa for a no-frills but relaxing massage.

When you first step into Templation, you’ll be awed by the walkway leading to the lobby, which is framed by waterfalls on either side. Indeed, the entire Templation experience is one of lightness and openness, with wide, airy spaces and plenty of water elements. All the suites open onto private terraces overlooking the main pool, while villas come with private pools. You can even opt to have your breakfast served in a floating tray for that extra luxe touch. The on-site spa, which uses natural Cambodian products by Bodia, is an excellent place to unwind.

This wellness resort sits on 1ha (2 acres) and offers a serene and peaceful environment for you to recharge and reconnect with yourself. Take part in daily yoga sessions, or sign up for the full package that includes wellness consultations, spa treatments and delicious organic meals. As an eco-conscious resort, Navutu eschews the use of single-use plastic, sources ingredients locally and provides non-toxic mosquito repellent for guests.

Housed within a historic mansion, this stately 80-room hotel has seen many foreign correspondents, celebrities and dignitaries pass through its doors. Designed in a neo-colonial style, with plenty of dark wood, cream walls, artisan textiles and Buddhist-influenced apsara figures, each of the capacious rooms exudes plenty of charm. Unwind with a book by the saltwater pool shaded by banyan trees, or enjoy a meal at one of the acclaimed in-house restaurants, Scribe and the Mansion.