Phnom Penh is a fascinating city for travellers to visit. The city has a tragic, recent history and to say it’s been through a lot is an understatement. But the city welcomes travellers with open arms.
Home to Khmer-era temples, a VIBRANT culture, a modern music scene and a vast array of mind-blowing sights – Phnom Penh is an awe-inspiring place to visit.
The city has so much to discover and is relatively inexpensive to visit. So, it’s one to keep firmly on your Cambodian bucket list.
Deciding where to stay in Phnom Pehn can be a daunting task, as there are many different areas to choose from. But don’t worry about a thing! That’s where I come in.
In this article, we are going to figure out which area is best for you. I’ve compiled the five best areas to stay and organised them by interest, so you’ll know which is best for you based on what you want to do during your visit.
Whether you’re looking to sightsee, party, or entertain your kids, this guide has all the information you need (and more!) to book the perfect place for your stay in Phnom Penh.
So, let’s get into it. Here are my top picks for where to stay in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
- Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
- Phnom Penh Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Phnom Penh
- Phnom Penh’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Phnom Penh
- What To Pack For Phnom Penh
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Phnom Penh
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? From hotels, Airbnbs, and budget backpacker hostels, there are heaps of choices for accommodation in Phnom Penh!
These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Phnom Penh.
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Plantation Urban Resort & Spa | Best Hotel in Phnom Penh
This is our favourite hotel in Phnom Penh because it offers modern and stylish rooms in the heart of the city behind the Royal Palace. The colourful rooms are kitted out with air conditioning, refrigerators, free wifi and a working space. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant serving a mix of Cambodian and French cuisine, and it has the most exquisite pool surrounded by jungle.
Onederz Phnom Penh | Best Hostel in Phnom Penh
This riverside property is our favourite hostel in Phnom Penh. It is ideally located and is within walking distance of famous tourist attractions and landmarks. This hostel consists of dorm-style and private rooms with comfortable beds, personal reading lights and plug sockets.
City Central King Suite | Best Airbnb in Phnom Penh
This apartment is so chic, you may just want to spend the day inside! Designed in a modern, minimalistic style, the apartment is a great place for everyone who visits the city for the first time. All hotspots are within walking distance, and you’ll have numerous cafes and restaurants around you.
Riverfront District
The Riverfront District is the best neighbourhood in Phnom Penh to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time. This vibrant riverfront area is home to an excellent selection of restaurants, shops and bars that will entertain travellers of all ages, interests and budgets.
Sangkat Voat Phnum
Sangkat Voat Phnum is a small neighbourhood set north of the Riverfront District. This centrally located neighbourhood is home to a good selection of famous attractions and landmarks.
BKK1
BKK1 is a vibrant and lively neighbourhood in central Phnom Penh. It is known as the city’s expat hub and is where you’ll find many embassies and foreign houses, as well as UN and NGO headquarters, international schools and universities.
Tonle Bassac
The Tonle Bassac neighbourhood is one of the best places in Phnom Penh to stay. Located near the BKK1 and Riverside neighbourhood, Tonle Bassac sits off the beaten tourist path.
Toul Kouk
Toul Kouk is located outside of the city centre. Not long ago it was an underdeveloped suburb with little to offer travellers. Today, thanks to a recent revamp and revitalization, it is one of the most desirable locations in the city with restaurants, cafes and boutiques.
Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city in Cambodia. It sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers and was once known as the Pearl of Asia because of its stunning architecture and inviting charm.
Although Phnom Penh can be a bit rough to visit, it’s a beautiful location of Cambodia worthy of your time. This Phnom Penh neighborhood guide will you decide what area to stay in Phnom Penh based on what you’d like to do and see.
The Riverside District is one of the best areas to stay in Phnom Penh because it is within walking distance of so many famous tourist attractions and historic landmarks. However, it’s important to know that it’s not the safest at night.
Set north of here is Sangkat Voat Phnum. This is our top pick for where to stay in Phnom Penh for one night because it has so many good value accommodation options and it’s right next to the city centre.
Travel south from here and you’ll arrive in Boeung Keng Kang 1 (BKK1). This lively and vibrant neighborhood is our best recommendation for where to stay in Phnom Penh for nightlife because it has excellent bars, thriving clubs, and offers some of the most delicious street food in the city.
Tonle Bassac is a small neighborhood east of BKK1 and is without a doubt one of the coolest places to stay in Phnom Penh. Home to cafes, bistros, boutiques and more, this is the best neighborhood in Phnom Penh to stay in if you like to shop, eat or want to be where the cool kids are.
And finally, Toul Kouk is located north of the city centre. It is the best neighborhood to stay in Phnom Penh with kids because it has great restaurants, shops and activities.
it is a city bursting with activities to fill your itinerary with. Give it a chance! Pick an awesome area to stay in Phnom Penh and have an amazing trip!
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Phnom Penh’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
In this next section, we break down what areas to stay in Phnom Penh in much more detail. Each neighborhood offers something a little different from the last so be sure to read each section carefully and pick the area that’s right for you!
#1 Riverfront District – Where to Stay in Phnom Penh for Your First Time
Wondering what area to stay in Phnom Penh for your first time? Riverfront District is the best neighborhood in Phnom Penh to stay in if you’re a first-time visitor to Cambodia. This vibrant riverfront area is home to an excellent selection of restaurants, shops and bars that will entertain travellers of all ages, interests and budgets.
This area is also home to popular and renowned landmarks and attractions, including Wat Ounolom, the National Museum and the Central Market.
So whether you want to sightsee, explore, or kick back with a cool cocktail, the Riverfront District has everything a first-time visitor could possibly want – and so much more!
Vacation Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Riverfront District
Vacation Boutique Hotel is a comfortable and cosy three-star hotel in the Riverside District, one of Phnom Penh’s best neighborhoods. It is a short walk from the Royal Palace and other great historical landmarks. This hotel boasts amazing amenities, comfortable rooms and guests can enjoy a tasty breakfast.
The Big Easy Phnom Penh | Best Hostel in Riverfront District
This brand new hostel is conveniently located in the Riverside District, the best neighborhood to stay in Phnom Penh for first-time visitors. It offers easy access to popular tourist attractions, bars, shops and cafes. Dorms are outfitted with large pod beds with modern amenities, curtains and reading lights.
City Central King Suite | Best Airbnb in Riverfront District
This apartment is so chic, you may just want to spend the day inside! Designed in a modern, minimalistic style, the apartment is a great place for everyone who visits the city for the first time. All hotspots are within walking distance, and you’ll have numerous cafes and restaurants around you.
Things to See and Do in Riverfront District
- Be amazed by Wat Ounolom, an impressive Buddhist temple.
- Browse the stalls at the Kandal Market.
- Delve deep into the rich and tragic history of Cambodia at the National Museum.
- Explore the amazing Royal Palace and its lush grounds, which includes the Silver Pagoda.
- Feast on tasty Tex-Mex at Cam’s Burrito.
- Go for a stroll through lovely Riverside Park.
- Sip a glass of wine and snack on French fare at Le Bouchon Wine Bar.
- Snack, shop and marvel at the décor of the Central Market.
- Try deep friend creatures and critters at the Creepy crawly stand.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Sangkat Voat Phnum – Where to Stay in Phnom Penh on a Budget
Sangkat Voat Phnum is a small neighborhood set north of the Riverfront District.
This centrally located neighborhood is home to a good selection of famous attractions and landmarks. Within the district, you’ll find the incredible Wat Phnom as well as lush Memorial Park, the Giant Clock of Phnom Penh and the delicious and busy Night Market.
Sangkat Voat Phnum is also the best neighborhood in Phnom Penh to stay in if you’re backpacking Cambodia on a budget because it has such a great selection of good value accommodation options. From backpacker hostels to boutique hotels, there’s something here for every style of traveller.
TRIBE | Best Hotel in Sangkat Voat Phnum
This modern hotel is situated just a stone’s throw from Phnom Penh’s most famous attractions. It is also close to a vast array of bars, restaurants and shops. This high-end hotel offers safe, cosy and large rooms with A/C, an epic swimming pool and so much more.
Onederz Phnom Penh | Best Hostel in Sangkat Voat Phnum
This riverside property is our favourite hostel in Phnom Penh. It is ideally located and is within walking distance of famous tourist attractions and landmarks. This hostel consists of dorm-style and private rooms with comfortable beds, personal reading lights and plug sockets.
Entire budget apartment | Best Airbnb in Sangkat Voat Phnum
Not often do you get a whole apartment to yourself when travelling on a budget. Today is your lucky day. This Airbnb is affordable and in a great location at the same time. Attractions are in walking distance, you’ll have AC in your bedroom and all the amenities you might need.
Things to See and Do in Sangkat Voat Phnum
- Eat delicious Italian dishes at Oskar Bistro.
- Enjoy afternoon tea at the legendary Elephant Bar.
- Excite your senses at Village Road Duck Cambodia.
- Explore the peaceful grounds of Wat Phnom.
- Indulge in delicious pub fare at Larry’s Bar & Grill.
- Sip a coffee at Brown Coffee Riverside.
- Snack and sample your way around Phnom Penh’s Night Market.
- Start your day with Bai sach chrouk, or pork and rice from Breakfast, a street-side eatery.
- Visit the Statue of King Sisowath.
- Wander through Memorial Park and see the Giant Clock of Phnom Penh.
#3 BKK1 – Where to Stay in Phnom Penh for Nightlife
BKK1 is a vibrant and lively neighborhood in central Phnom Penh. It is known as the city’s expat hub and is where you’ll find many embassies and foreign houses, as well as UN and NGO headquarters, international schools and universities.
This busy and buzzing ‘hood is also the best area in Phnom Penh to stay in for nightlife. Tucked throughout this district of Phnom Penh thriving streets are a great variety of amazing bars, clubs, restaurants and pubs that offer fun nights out to visitors and locals.
There’s also plenty of hip and modern restaurants, cosy cafes and steamy street stalls where you can excite your senses and satisfy your appetite.
Plantation Urban Resort & Spa | Best Hotel in BKK1
This is our favourite hotel in Phnom Penh because it offers modern and stylish rooms in the heart of the city behind the Royal Palace. The colourful rooms are kitted out with air conditioning, refrigerators, free wifi and a working space. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant serving a mix of Cambodian and French cuisine, and it has the most exquisite pool surrounded by jungle.
Mad Monkey Phnom Penh | Best Hostel in BKK1
This lively and social hostel is located in nearby BKK1. It is just a short walk from the bars, restaurants, shops and attractions of Tonle Bassac. This hotel has a swimming pool, a rooftop bar, and a delicious on-site restaurant. Dorms are comfortable, spacious and equipped with oversized mattresses.
Entire one-bed studio | Best Airbnb in BKK1
This Airbnb is not the largest space in town BUT it is perfect if you’re travelling solo or as a couple. You’re right on the busiest street in the city, which is great for exploring the nightlife of Phnom Penh.
Everything inside the apartment is high in quality and very clean according to previous guests – you will love this place. Not to mention the rooftop pool, gym and epic city views.
Things to See and Do in BKK1
- Eat tasty European dishes at Farm to Table.
- Enjoy great drinks and a chill atmosphere at Liquid Bar.
- Excite your sense with a flavourful snack from one of BKK1’s famous Nompang carts.
- Grab drinks and watch sports at SCORE Sports Bar & Grill.
- Indulge in a night of rustic cocktails at BattBong.
- Sink your teeth into a delicious meal at iBurger.
- Sip cocktails on the rooftop bar at the Top Banana Guesthouse.
- Sit back, relax and listen to live music at Zeppelin Café.
- Spend a fantastic night eating and drinking at Duplex.
- Visit the Independence Monument.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Tonle Bassac – Coolest Place to Stay in Phnom Penh
The Tonle Bassac neighborhood is one of the best places in Phnom Penh to stay. Located near the BKK1 and Riverside neighborhood, Tonle Bassac sits off the beaten tourist path. It doesn’t have a lot of tourist sights, which means it offers visitors a more local feel, attitude and atmosphere.
What Tonle Bassac lacks in monuments it certainly makes up in food!
This is far and away one of the best neighborhoods in Phnom Penh for eating and dining. It has everything from elegant restaurants to street-side stall, all which serve mouthwatering dishes from throughout Cambodia and around the world.
A stay in Tonle Bassac will have you licking your lips and loving every delicious minute of it!
YK Art House | Best Hotel in Tonle Bassac
YK Art House is conveniently located in Tonle Bassac, one of the coolest places to stay in Phnom Penh. It has a variety of facilities, including a library, on-site restaurant and airport shuttle. Rooms are modern, spacious and well-equipped with A/C and wireless internet.
Teav Bassac Boutique Hotel & Spa | Best Hotel in Tonle Bassac
Rest, relax and luxuriate at this premium Phnom Penh accommodation. Set in the city centre, this four-star hotel offers easy access to popular tourist attractions, landmarks, bars and shops. It has 19 bright rooms with essential amenities. And, breakfast is available each morning.
Mad Monkey Phnom Penh | Best Hostel in Tonle Bassac
This lively and social hostel is located in nearby BKK1. It is just a short walk from the bars, restaurants, shops and attractions of Tonle Bassac. This hotel has a swimming pool, a rooftop bar, and a delicious on-site restaurant. Dorms are comfortable, spacious and equipped with oversized mattresses.
Sky Living with Spectacular Mekong View | Best Airbnb in Tonle Bassac
This place is all about views! Stand in your 40+ story high living room and soak in the incredible view over the Mekong River. The Airbnb in a condo is super modern and very comfy. It’s very well equipped, and you can enjoy the three (!!!) outdoor swimming pools, gym, steam room, yoga room and more on-site!
Things to See and Do in Tonle Bassac
- Choose from a wide selection of premium rums at the Samai Distillery.
- Excite your sense with Cambodian fare at Boat Noodle.
- Feast on spicy, savoury and flavourful dishes at Malis.
- Grab drinks at hip and trendy Cloud.
- Kickstart your day with an awesome meal at Java Creative Café.
- Sample local craft brews or sip a glass of wine at Botanico Wine & Beer Garden.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth with a light, fluffy and delicate treat from the Donut Lady.
- See the Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk.
- Sip excellent cocktails at Red Bar.
#5 Toul Kouk – Where to Stay in Phnom Penh for Families
Toul Kouk is located outside of the city centre. Not long ago it was an underdeveloped suburb with little to offer travellers. Today, thanks to a recent revamp and revitalization, it is one of the most desirable locations in the city with restaurants, cafes and boutiques.
It is also home to TK Avenue, an outdoor shopping mall that has everything from toys and clothes to a supermarket and entertainment outlets.
Because of all this, Toul Kouk is our best recommendation for where to stay in Phnom Penh with kids.
City View Apartment Phnom Penh | Best Apartments in Toul Kouk
Stunning views and a cosy setting – what more could you want from this Phnom Penh property. Set at the centre of the city, this property has comfortable rooms all within walking distance of popular tourist attractions and famous landmarks. There’s also a swimming pool and free wifi.
AMATA Residence | Best Hotel in Toul Kouk
AMATA is an excellent hotel in Toul Kouk, our best recommendation for where to stay in Phnom Penh for simple, affordable luxury. This property has a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre and a sauna. It also offers large and clean rooms with all the essentials you could need!
Two Bedroom Suite – Sun Apartment | Best Airbnb in Toul Kouk
Located in the safest neighborhood of the city, you and your family will love this Airbnb. Sleeping up to 6 people, it’s even big enough to have some friends with you too. The home is equipped with great amenities. If you’re looking for a bit of activity during the day, head up to the roof and hang out in the rooftop pool!
Things to See and Do in Toul Kouk
- Eat, drink and enjoy a night of billiards and pool at Sarika Pool & Pizza Bar.
- Excite your sense at One More, an amazing Cambodia restaurant.
- Feast on fresh and delicious Japanese dishes at Sashimi Sushi.
- Grab a slice at The Pizza Company.
- Indulge in delectable treats and fantastic eats from Joma Bakery Café.
- Shop, snack and sample your way through one of Toul Kouk’s buzzing and bustling markets.
- Start your day with a delicious cup of coffee from Brown Roastery.
- Tease your taste buds with amazing flavours at Raksmey BBQ.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Phnom Penh
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Phnom Penh and where to stay.
What To Pack For Phnom Penh
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Phnom Penh
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is an exciting and underrated capital city. It has a rich history, vibrant culture and one of the best food scenes in Asia. Add to that its amazing landmarks and vivacious nightlife and Phnom Penh is definitely a city worth your travel time and dollars.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the five best neighborhoods to stay in Phnom Penh based on your interests, needs, and budget. If you’re still not 100% sure which is right for you, here is a recap of our favourite hostel and hotel.
Onederz Phnom Penh is our pick for the best hostel in Phnom Penh because it has modern beds and is within walking distance of famous tourist attractions and landmarks.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Cambodia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Phnom Penh.
- Planning out an itinerary for Phnom Penh is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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