Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Overview
Phnom Penh offers incredible accommodation value, from $4 dorm beds in social hostels to colonial-era luxury hotels under $150. The capital's compact size means you're never far from the action, but choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference. BKK1 is the expat hub with cafes and restaurants, Riverside delivers views and tourist convenience, and Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market area) offers the best budget value with local character.
hostel Dorm
$4–8
guesthouse
$12–25
boutique
$40–80
luxury
$100–250
apartment
$250–600/month
📍 Best Neighborhoods
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
The most popular expat neighborhood with excellent cafes, international restaurants, and walkable streets. Central location with easy access to Independence Monument and the Royal Palace.
Riverside (Sisowath Quay)
The scenic riverside promenade with views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong convergence. Walking distance to the Royal Palace, National Museum, and night market. Can be touristy and noisy.
Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market)
Named after the famous Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung), this area offers the best value in the city. Popular with budget travelers and young expats, with a growing cafe and bar scene.
Tonle Bassac
A newer development area south of BKK1 with modern high-rises, premium hotels, and upscale dining. Home to Aeon Mall and the NagaWorld casino complex.
🛏️ Budget Picks
🛏️ Mad Monkey Phnom Penh
Legendary party hostel with rooftop pool, bar, and social events. Great for meeting fellow travelers.
🛏️ One Stop Hostel
Clean, quiet hostel with modern facilities near BKK1. Perfect for travelers who want sleep over socializing.
🛏️ Eighty8 Backpackers
Popular with solo travelers, featuring a lively bar and organized pub crawls. Central Riverside location.
🏨 Mid-Range Picks
🏨 The Plantation
Colonial-era boutique hotel with stunning courtyard, pool, and elegant rooms. Outstanding breakfast included.
🏨 Aquarius Hotel & Urban Resort
Modern boutique hotel with rooftop pool and bar. Stylish rooms with city views at mid-range prices.
🏨 White Mansion Boutique Hotel
Charming white colonial building with lush garden courtyard. Quiet retreat in the heart of the city.
🌴 Luxury Picks
🌴 Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Phnom Penh's most iconic hotel, open since 1929. Where Jacqueline Kennedy stayed. Two pools, spa, and impeccable service.
🌴 Rosewood Phnom Penh
Ultra-modern luxury in a striking 39-story tower. Panoramic city views, Michelin-worthy dining, and exceptional spa.
🌴 Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
French elegance with the largest outdoor pool in Phnom Penh. Beautiful grounds and excellent restaurants.
💡 Booking Tips
- • BKK1 is best for stays of 3+ days — you'll settle into the cafe culture and feel like a local
- • Riverside hotels charge a premium for views — consider BKK1 and walk to the river (10 min)
- • Long-stay apartments in BKK1 go for $300-500/month furnished with pool — use Facebook groups to find deals
- • Avoid hotels near Street 136 (party street) unless you want noise until 4am
- • Book directly with hotels for 10-20% savings vs booking platforms
- • Rainy season (Jun-Oct) drops hotel prices 30-40% — best value period
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for general Cambodia accommodation info? Read our full accommodation guide →
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