Where Is the Best Area to Stay in Siem Reap? Wat Bo Village vs. Pub Street
One of the most common questions first-time travelers ask is: "Should I stay centrally near the action, or look for somewhere quieter?"
The honest answer is—it depends on your travel style. But from our perspective, Wat Bo Village offers the best of both worlds. You get everything you need right at your doorstep, all while staying in a neighborhood that remains calm, local, and welcoming.
While staying close to Pub Street might seem like the obvious choice, there’s surprisingly little reason to base yourself there. It’s busy, loud, and heavily geared toward late-night party crowds, which can make it hard to unwind—especially after long days exploring temples like Angkor Wat.
The key thing to remember? Siem Reap is small. From Wat Bo, you’re only a few minutes away by tuk-tuk—or an easy, scenic walk along the river—from the energy of Pub Street and the Old Market. Dip into the city’s nightlife whenever you feel like it, then head back to a quieter, more comfortable neighborhood to recharge.
The rooftops of Wat Bo Village from Babel Guesthouse
A Location That Gives You Both
Babel Guesthouse is located in the northern Wat Bo area, a relaxed and welcoming neighborhood. We are just a 15-minute walk from Old Market and Pub Street along the newly renovated riverside path. You’re close to everything—without the constant noise from Pub Street.
Just off Street 20, our little side street has its own history. It was once one of Siem Reap’s early backpacker hubs, lined with guesthouses and a friendly, easygoing atmosphere that still lingers today.
At the eastern end of Street 26, you’ll find Babel Boutique Hotel. Not long ago, this area was mostly residential, with simple roads and very little going on. In just a few years, it has transformed into a lively pocket filled with small local businesses, cafés, and restaurants.
Our little side street off Street 20 was once a red dirt road with no cars
Why Wat Bo Village Stands Out
Located just east of the river, Wat Bo Village—named after the historic Wat Bo Pagoda—has evolved rapidly in recent years. What was once a quiet part of town is now home to a vibrant mix of boutique hotels, stylish bars, and some of the city’s most loved restaurants and cafés.
Wat Bo has grown into one of the most interesting areas in Siem Reap, known for its charm, culture, and strong sense of community. It was even recognized by Time Out in 2022 as one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods—and once you spend some time here, it’s easy to see why.
Golden hour at the beautiful Wat Bo Pagoda
Why Wat Bo Village feels like the greenest place to stay in Siem Reap
Wat Bo offers a distinct, peaceful rhythm compared to the rest of the city, and a lot of that comes down to a neighborhood that truly cares. It’s cleaner, greener, and significantly more livable for travelers and locals alike.
Over the past few years, the area has prioritized better waste management and increased recycling accessibility, resulting in clean, walkable streets. This collective commitment to sustainability is clear from the moment you arrive. When you wander through Wat Bo, you aren't just seeing a cleaner environment; you’re witnessing a dedicated community effort to make Siem Reap a more sustainable, enjoyable, and welcoming place to visit.
Slow travel at its best: there’s no better way to explore Wat Bo than by bicycle
Life on Street 26 – The Heart of Wat Bo Village
If you want to feel the energy of the Wat Bo neighborhood, head to the west end of Street 26. In just a few years, this stretch has become one of the most popular spots in Siem Reap for locals and expats.
It’s a street full of character—colorful murals by local artists, benches made from recycled plastic, and newly planted trees all add to its charm. It’s these small details that make the area feel thoughtful and inviting.
Evening Vibes: Street 26 comes alive in a relaxed, natural way. Laundry Bar is a local favorite, with live music every Wednesday spilling out into the street.
Refined Cocktails: Nearby, Miss Wong Cocktail Bar brings a more sophisticated touch, offering beautifully crafted drinks in a stylish setting.
Foodie Haven: The dining scene is diverse and high-quality. Spots like Tevy's Place, Banlle Vegetarian Restaurant, and Footprint Cafes have all made this street home.
An old wooden house has been renovated into a charming Gelato cafe on Street 26
A neighborhood that comes together
One of the things that really shows the spirit of Wat Bo Village is how the community comes together—and a great example of that is the Wat Bo Festival we helped bring to life a few years back.
For two days, the west end of Street 26 was completely closed off and transformed into a lively, welcoming space filled with local products, food and drink stalls, and a real sense of community.Babel Eco Shop even had its own stall, alongside many other local businesses.
There was something for everyone—live music, kids’ activities, and dance performances—all organized by us together with other businesses in Wat Bo. It wasn’t just an event for visitors, but something created by the neighborhood, for the neighborhood.
It’s moments like this that really capture what Wat Bo is about. Not just a place to stay, but a place where people connect, create, and celebrate together—and where travellers get to be part of something a little more real.
Smiles and sustainability: The Babel crew representing our Eco-shop at the 2024 Wat Bo Festival, celebrating the neighborhood coming together
Two Unique Stays, One Local Spirit
Located in the trendy Wat Bo Village, our Boutique Hotel and Guesthouse offer the perfect balance: quiet, leafy streets and a warm community feel, all within walking distance of the city center.
Close to the city center
Easy access to Angkor Wat
Surrounded by cafés, restaurants, and everyday essentials
Quiet enough to truly relax
In other words, you don’t have to choose between convenience and atmosphere—Wat Bo Village gives you both. It’s the kind of neighborhood that quietly grows on you: easy to get around, full of character, and genuinely welcoming.
Spend a few days here, and you’ll start to see why so many travelers fall in love with this part of Siem Reap—not just as a place to stay, but as a place to feel at home.