A Family Escape to Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap
Raffles globally is an iconic symbol of elegance, class and calm, and Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is no exception.
My family enjoyed a spectacular stay there in December 2024, which featured one of the best breakfasts we have ever had, a gorgeous guest room, with indulgent Sodashi products in the bathroom, sensational cocktails served in the elegant Elephant Bar and regular rides in the lift soaking up the energy of Jacquline Kennedy and Charlie Chaplin who were regular guests in a bygone era.
Embarking on a memorable family journey, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is a storied property, steeped in history and charm, and it offered an ideal retreat for a Sydney mum and two 17-year-olds. Sparkling American Joseph Colina is the General Manager, and ensures a stay is
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is not just a place to stay but an experience to treasure. From its rich history to its impeccable service and family-friendly activities, this property is special.
From its opulent colonial design to thoughtful modern touches, and personalised butler service, this hotel provides a blend of heritage and luxury that captivates every traveller.
Overall Rating: 9.5/10
Style and Atmosphere: 9.5/10
Known as “La Grande Dame of Angkor,” Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor first opened its doors in 1932, designed by French architect Ernest Hébrard.
It remains a rare gem of French Indochina, flawlessly blending colonial charm with contemporary luxury after its 2019 refurbishment.
The iconic structure features grand facades, polished dark-wood interiors, and lush gardens. The buildings emulate the original Raffles Hotel in Singapore.
Guests are transported to a bygone era, surrounded by the stories of notable visitors like Charlie Chaplin and Jacqueline Kennedy.
The hotel’s service is impeccable—formal yet warm, with staff going above and beyond to ensure every moment feels special, even piling into the 92 year old lift multiple times a day. Whether it’s a friendly valet or discreet housekeeping, the team strikes the perfect balance between attentiveness and respect for privacy.
Location: 9/10
Nestled in the heart of Siem Reap’s French Quarter, the hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the area, on foot if you like.
It faces the tranquil Royal Gardens and is just a 10-minute drive from the majestic Angkor Wat.
While the bustling city center is walkable, taking a tuk-tuk or taxi is recommended on hot days. Conveniently, the new Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport is about an hour away, ensuring easy access for international travellers.
Rooms and Amenities: 9/10
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor offers compact yet elegantly appointed rooms. Hardwood floors, white walls, timber bed heads, vintage-style furnishings, and views of the Royal Gardens or the pool create a serene atmosphere.
Thoughtful touches like fresh fruit, chocolates, and biodegradable Sodashi amenities elevate the experience.
Modern conveniences include smart lighting, air-conditioning, and rain showers and marble filled bathrooms create every day luxury moments throughout a stay. Rooms have a coffee machine and a gorgeous selection of Raffles teas.
Facilities 9/10
The hotel boasts a photogenic 110-foot-long pool—one of Cambodia’s largest—ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration, and surrounded by palm tress and elegant green pool chairs as well as day beds to shield from the sun.
A state-of-the-art fitness center is small but ample, and and a luxurious spa with six treatment rooms cater to wellness enthusiasts.
The Apsara classical dance performances and monk blessing ceremonies add a unique cultural dimension to your stay. For adventure seekers, bespoke tours including sun rise Vespa rides to Angkor temples and hot-air balloon excursions can be arranged.
Food and Beverage 9.5/10
Evenings are best spent at the iconic Elephant Bar, which is decored superbly with black iron gates, splashes of gold and timber. Elegant crystal bottles line the bar along with a mix of mystical black and gold bottles with an array of ingredients to whip up taste sensations. Louis Roderer is the house champgane.
It is the best place in Siem Reap to sip on a wide range of expertly crafted cocktails or sample fine champagnes and wines. Herbs and produce sourced from the on-site Culinary Garden enhance every dish and drink. There was a happy hour during our stay from 4-6pm as well as a list of new cocktail deisigns which was a nice touch.
The Restaurant 1932 is a culinary highlight, offering exquisite Khmer dishes alongside Western favourites. There are multiple menu choices offering set menus at different prices according to the changing eras of the hotel. It is rated as one of Siem Reap’s best restaurants.
Each guest can choose the menu they would like and wine pairings are optional. This dinner was a highlight of our stay in Cambodia.
The flavours were outtstanding, but the history, explanations and stories made it stimulating for me as well as for my teenagers.
For casual dining, Café d’Angkor serves French-inspired dishes and local specialties. Breakfast is served here and is brilliant. At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, breakfast is a meal to be savoured slowly. Champagne is on offer or mimosas by the glass. The pastries are extraordinary, especially the chocolate croissants, and fresh eggs and crepes are made to order. Seating is both indoor and outdoor.
Guests can also enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in The Conservatory, overlooking the pool and garden.
Wellness and Sustainability
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor seamlessly integrates sustainability into luxury. The property has eliminated plastic bottles, opting for its own water bottling plant. Globally, many of these plants are producing undrinkable water, but this is not the case at Raffles. The water is excellent.
Amenities are biodegradable, bathroom products from Sodashi are in multiple use containers – which didn’t appeal to the teens who love taking home a sample of something new- and the Culinary Garden supports farm-to-table dining.
The spa offers a range of treatments to rejuvenate body and mind, complementing the hotel’s serene environment.
Special Experiences
The hotel goes beyond traditional luxury with curated activities like cooking classes featuring market visits and temple-side private dinners at different times of the year.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap in Brief:
Who Is Behind It: Raffles the building was opened as a hotel in 1932 and acquired by Raffles in 1994 and re-opened in 1997.
Insider Knowledge: The Elephant Bar has some of Angkor’s best cocktails and gorgeous snacks.
Renae says: This is a fabulous property for enveloping yourself in luxury and calm after a long day exploring the temples of Siem Reap, which can be wonderful but also hot and exhausting.
Who should Stay at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Siem Reap: Couples, families, singles, groups.
Who shouldn’t stay here: Anyone who does not like luxury, elegance and relaxed style.
Location: Up to 50 minutes from the airport in Siem Reap.
Best culinary delight: The dinner at 1932 is a delight with each guest being offered a large degustation menu to select from depending on the era they want to focus on, so unique.
The Highlight: Free fruity ice blocks by the pool on hot days- it is the little things.
The lowlight: Birds fly into the open air breakfast area, but it is all part of the vibe.
Most Instagrammable location: The lobby and the pool.
