The best areas to stay in Phnom Penh are Sisowath Quay (Riverside), BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1), Daun Penh, Tonle Bassac, Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market), Koh Dach (Silk Island), and Beung Trabek.
That’s an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Phnom Penh.
But don’t worry, because, in this article, we cover what we believe are the best areas to stay in Phnom Penh, no matter the type of traveller you are.
If you want to go straight to the recommendations, tap on the following button.
Or simply continue reading if you want to know just a bit more about Phnom Penh.
The vibrant capital city of Cambodia is an ideal travel destination for those seeking a blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and urban exploration.
Phnom Penh is known for its historical significance, offering glimpses into Cambodia’s past.
You can explore landmarks like the Royal Palace, a magnificent complex that houses the Silver Pagoda, and learn about the country’s royal heritage.
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek provide poignant insights into the tragic Khmer Rouge era, allowing visitors to better understand Cambodia’s history.
Phnom Penh also showcases Cambodia’s vibrant culture and traditions.
The city is home to ornate Buddhist temples, such as Wat Phnom and Wat Ounalom, where visitors can immerse themselves in spiritual tranquility.
The National Museum exhibits a vast collection of Khmer art, including sculptures and artifacts, providing a deeper appreciation of the country’s artistic heritage.
Phnom Penh’s culinary scene is a highlight for food enthusiasts.
From traditional Cambodian dishes like fish amok and beef lok lak to international cuisines, the city offers a diverse range of dining options.
Exploring bustling markets like the Central Market or sampling street food along the riverside promenade adds a delightful culinary adventure to any visit.
The city’s riverside area along the Tonle Sap River is a lively hub that exudes a vibrant atmosphere.
You can stroll along Sisowath Quay, enjoying scenic views, dining at riverside restaurants, and witnessing stunning sunsets.
The riverside is also a gateway to boat tours, providing opportunities to explore the Mekong River and its nearby islands.
Phnom Penh seamlessly blends its historical and cultural heritage with modern development.
Neighborhoods like BKK1 offer trendy cafes, boutique shops, and a bustling nightlife scene.
The city boasts modern shopping malls, entertainment centers, and luxury hotels, catering to various interests and preferences.
But with so many things to offer, it’s a bit challenging to pick the right area for you.
We’ve come up with a list of recommended areas to make things easier.
Each of the recommended areas comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which are summarized after each paragraph.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Where to stay in Phnom Penh? Keep reading!
Overview of best areas to stay in Phnom Penh
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| Best areas to stay in Phnom Penh | What’s so special about the area? |
|---|---|
| 1. Sisowath Quay (Riverside) | This area is located along the banks of the Tonle Sap River and offers a vibrant atmosphere with a range of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s close to popular attractions like the Royal Palace and the National Museum. |
| 2. BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1) | BKK1 is a trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its boutique hotels, fashionable cafes, and stylish restaurants. It’s a great area to explore contemporary Cambodian culture and enjoy a lively nightlife. |
| 3. Daun Penh |
Located in the city center, Daun Penh is home to historical landmarks like the Central Market, Wat Phnom, and the Independence Monument. It offers a mix of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to upscale hotels. |
| 4. Tonle Bassac | Situated south of BKK1, Tonle Bassac is a residential area known for its modern buildings, upscale residences, and luxury hotels. It’s close to attractions like the Aeon Mall and the Diamond Island (Koh Pich) entertainment area. |
| 5. Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) | The Russian Market neighborhood is famous for its eponymous market, offering a wide range of souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts. It’s a more local and less touristy area, with guesthouses and boutique hotels catering to budget-conscious travelers. |
| If you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the city, consider staying in Koh Dach. This island, located in the Mekong River, is known for its silk-weaving industry. It offers a peaceful rural setting and a chance to explore traditional Cambodian village life. | |
| Located in the southern part of the city, Beung Trabek is an emerging neighborhood with a mix of local and international restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s a quieter area compared to the city center, but still within reach of popular attractions. |
How to get around in Phnom Penh as a tourist?
Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Phnom Penh.
These three-wheeled vehicles can be found throughout the city and are easily recognizable.
Negotiate the fare before getting in, as they usually don’t have meters.
Tuk-tuks are ideal for short to medium distances and offer a convenient way to explore the city.
Metered taxis are available in Phnom Penh, and they provide a more comfortable and air-conditioned option for getting around.
Companies like PassApp, Exnet, and Uber (now called Grab) offer reliable taxi services.
For solo travelers or shorter distances, motorbike taxis, known as “motodops,” are a popular choice.
They are recognizable by their drivers wearing orange vests. Negotiate the fare before hopping on, and don’t forget to wear a helmet for safety.
Phnom Penh has become more bicycle-friendly in recent years, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available.
Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city at a slower pace and get closer to the local lifestyle.
Phnom Penh’s city center is relatively compact, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Exploring on foot allows you to soak in the atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and experience the local culture up close.
It’s worth noting that traffic in Phnom Penh can be busy and chaotic, especially during peak hours.
What is the best time of the year to visit Phnom Penh?
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is during the dry season, which typically spans from November to April.
During this period, you can expect pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city’s attractions and engaging in outdoor activities.
The peak tourist season in Phnom Penh coincides with this dry season.
Specifically, the months of November to February offer cooler temperatures, making it a popular time to visit.
Daytime temperatures range from the mid-20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (mid-70s to low 90s degrees Fahrenheit), and evenings can be pleasantly cool.
March and April mark the transition to the hot season, with temperatures gradually rising. It can get quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
The rainy season in Phnom Penh extends from May to October.
While the rain can provide relief from the heat, it’s worth noting that heavy downpours are common, and some areas may experience flooding.
If you don’t mind occasional showers and prefer fewer crowds, visiting during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) could be an option.
Just be prepared for intermittent rain and humidity.
The best areas to stay in Phnom Penh are:
1. Sisowath Quay (Riverside)
The Riverside area, along Sisowath Quay, offers a picturesque setting along the Tonle Sap River.
It’s a vibrant and bustling area with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
Staying here allows you to enjoy stunning river views, especially during sunset.
You can take leisurely walks along the promenade, dine at waterfront restaurants, or relax in riverside cafes.
The area is close to major attractions like the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum, and Wat Ounalom.
It’s also a great starting point for river cruises and boat trips.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
BKK1 is a trendy and upscale neighborhood known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere.
It offers a mix of boutique hotels, fashionable cafes, art galleries, and designer shops.
Staying here allows you to experience the contemporary side of Phnom Penh.
You can explore modern Cambodian culture, visit chic bars and restaurants, and shop for unique souvenirs and fashion.
BKK1 is known for its vibrant nightlife, with various entertainment venues, rooftop bars, and live music venues to enjoy after dark.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Daun Penh
Daun Penh is the historic heart of Phnom Penh, located in the city center. It’s home to several notable landmarks and attractions.
Staying in Daun Penh puts you in close proximity to attractions like the Central Market, a bustling market with a wide range of goods, Wat Phnom, the city’s central pagoda, and the Independence Monument, an iconic symbol of Cambodia’s independence.
The area offers a mix of accommodations, ranging from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
It’s a convenient base for exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Tonle Bassac
Tonle Bassac is a modern and upscale residential area located south of BKK1.
It’s known for its luxurious hotels, high-end condominiums, and shopping centers.
Staying in Tonle Bassac provides a more tranquil and exclusive experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The area is close to attractions like the Aeon Mall, one of Phnom Penh’s largest shopping malls, and the Diamond Island (Koh Pich), which offers entertainment venues, a water park, and scenic views of the city skyline.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Toul Tom Poung – Russian Market
The Russian Market neighborhood is named after the iconic Russian Market, a bustling local market known for its wide array of goods, including clothing, souvenirs, handicrafts, and local street food.
Staying in this area allows you to immerse yourself in the local Cambodian culture and experience a more authentic side of Phnom Penh.
The neighborhood offers a mix of guesthouses and boutique hotels catering to budget-conscious travelers.
It’s a great choice for those seeking a local and less touristy atmosphere.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Koh Dach (Silk Island)
Koh Dach, also known as Silk Island, offers a serene escape from the city. Located in the Mekong River, it’s known for its silk weaving industry and traditional Cambodian village life.
Staying on Koh Dach allows you to experience rural Cambodia, witness traditional silk weaving techniques, and interact with local artisans.
The island offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, with rustic guesthouses and homestays available for accommodation.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Beung Trabek
Beung Trabek is an emerging neighborhood in the southern part of Phnom Penh.
It’s a mix of local and international restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.
Staying here offers a quieter alternative to the city center while still being within reach of popular attractions and amenities.
The area provides a glimpse into the local urban lifestyle and is a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed and residential ambiance.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Phnom Penh
The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Phnom Penh including its highlights.
The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Phnom Penh.
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