Inaugurated in 1932 under the name Grand Hotel des Ruines, Raffles Le Grand Hotel d'Angkor ranks among Southeast Asia's historic addresses. Located in Siem Reap's former French quarter, the establishment has welcomed explorers, royalty, and dignitaries drawn to admire the Khmer temples—from Charlie Chaplin to Jackie Kennedy. Nearly a century later, it retains its Art Deco colonial architecture and its role as a gateway to exploring Angkor.

Why stay here

Raffles is not just another Siem Reap hotel: it is one of the few remaining active witnesses to the golden age of Indochinese tourism. The main building, its tropical gardens spanning several hectares, and the pool surrounded by palms form an ensemble that successive renovations have preserved rather than transformed. The address appeals to travelers seeking a heritage experience as much as accommodation, within immediate proximity to the Angkor complex (around 10 minutes by car).

Atmosphere and architecture

From arrival, the welcome sets the tone: a refreshing towel and cocktail in the hall, whose volumes, ceiling fans, and woodwork echo the grand colonial hotels of the 1930s. Corridors opening onto gardens, rattan furnishings, and period photographs on the walls maintain the atmosphere of a palace from the first half of the 20th century. The outdoor pool, one of the city's largest, anchors the property.

Rooms

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and ceiling fan, wifi, television, minibar, and safe. Most feature a private balcony overlooking the gardens or pool. Daily attention to guests includes a fresh fruit platter delivered to rooms each day. Premium categories, particularly Personality suites, bear the names of illustrious guests who have stayed at the establishment.

Dining and services

The hotel's restaurant offers Khmer cuisine and Western dishes, served in rooms opening onto the gardens. The historic bar, the Elephant Bar, is known for its signature cocktails and refined pre-war ambiance. For wellness, the establishment provides:

• a spa offering traditional Khmer treatments and massages
• a fitness center
• a large outdoor pool within the gardens
• concierge service for organizing Angkor visits

Location

The hotel sits in Siem Reap's former French quarter, on Vithei Charles de Gaulle, the avenue linking downtown to the archaeological site entrance. This position allows reaching Angkor park in around ten minutes by car, and walking by day to the Royal Residence Park or Royal Gardens directly across from the hotel. The Old Market and Pub Street, the city's lively heart, are roughly 10 minutes by tuk-tuk away.

Address: 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle, Khum Svay Dang Kum, Siem Reap.

What to see nearby

The primary draw remains the Angkor complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site: Angkor Wat for sunrise, the Bayon with its stone faces, Ta Prohm swallowed by kapok trees, or more remote ensembles such as Banteay Srei and Beng Mealea. In Siem Reap itself, the Angkor National Museum offers useful context before or after visiting the temples. Tonlé Sap Lake and its floating villages can be reached in about an hour's drive.

Planning your stay in Cambodge

Raffles Le Grand Hotel d'Angkor fits into a classic Cambodian itinerary: Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Angkor, with possible extension to the coast. To compare lodging options throughout the country, also consider The Sangkum Hotel in Phnom Penh, or for a beach stay Anaya Koh Rong and Veranda Natural Resort at Kep.

To craft a custom itinerary incorporating this address, explore our Cambodge trips.