The Best Hotels in Phnom Penh

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Phnom Penh Hotels – Tips and Advice

  • The premier hotels offering exceptional accommodations in Phnom Penh include the lavish Raffles Hotel Le Royal for the utmost in luxury, the family-friendly Sofitel incorporating authentic local touches and granting complimentary massages like La Rose Suites, and the lavishly appointed spa facilities at White Mansion.
  • The ideal areas for travelers include Voat Phnum (featuring a 14th-century temple and French colonial structures), Doun Penh (center of the city housing the Royal Palace and Central Market), Riverfront (lively location with bars and eateries), Boeung Keng Kang 1 (aka BKK1, charming district with upscale bars and restaurants near embassies and NGOs), and Tonle Basak (aka New City, emerging region with Aeon Mall, as well as new luxury hotels and condominiums).
  • Some of the top dining spots in Phnom Penh include Malis which offers upscale Khmer cuisine, Bistrot Langka known for its French fine dining, Elephant Bar that serves swanky cocktails in an upscale setting, and Friends which provides a cheerful atmosphere for small plates and tapas.
  • The formal currency used for monetary transactions in Cambodia is the riel, however the unofficial currency used regularly is the US dollar. Nearly all ATMs distribute dollars and you`ll pay any airport visa fees in dollars as well. US coins are not generally used for spending, so change under $1 will be given in riel. Plan to carry smaller bills for most purchases; it can be difficult to use notes larger than $10. Break up larger bills at your hotel. Merchants also only accept dollars in good shape without any tears, rips or excessive wrinkles (yet riel notes are commonly damaged!)
  • Most routes through the city are referenced by their numeric designations, not their given names. Exceptions to this standard are Norodom Blvd, Mao Tse Tung Blvd, Monivong Blvd, and Sihanouk Blvd.
  • Three-wheeled tuk tuks (motorcycles hauling small carriages) represent the best method for navigating around the city. A sensible standard is paying about $1 per kilometer, while rates fluctuate based on the driver. Settle on a cost before entering the tuk tuk! The city contains many drivers, so if you`re unable to agree on a fair price with one, ask another. Take note that lots of drivers require the fare, but may not truly have knowledge of where your destination lies; street names and numbers sometimes change and new hotels spring up all the time. Illustrate the location on the map (they typically hold one) where you need to go. Specify the street number and intersecting roads, and employ landmarks as reference points.
  • Travellers should bring facial tissues as public washrooms occasionally lack toilet paper.
  • Renting a vehicle is worthwhile if exploring much of the island during your stay. Roads on Santorini are typically well-kept and navigable, with signs in Greek and English.

  • The ancient temples in Phnom Penh are active places of worship even now. Be very respectful and dress appropriately. This applies equally to men and women! Shirts need to cover shoulders, and bottoms need to extend below the knees. Cambodian people tend to be too polite to say anything directly, but they truly see it as incredibly disrespectful when tourists roam their holy sites without proper attire. This dress policy also applies when visiting the Royal Palace. While most temples in Phnom Penh do not rigorously impose the dress standards, the Palace does not overlook it and will deny entrance to those who do not comply.

The 15 Best Luxury Hotels in Phnom Penh

1. Raffles Hotel Le Royal – Wat Phnom

a man in a suit sitting at a table in a roomHotel phone: +855 23 981 888
This iconic hotel offers guests a relaxing retreat in the heart of the city. Visitors can choose from spacious quarters in either the modern building or heritage-listed 1929 wing, each appointed with luxury amenities like soothing bathtubs and scenic views. The renowned spa pampers clients with opulent treatments utilizing 24-karat gold, organic ingredients, and authentic Khmer methods. Highly rated for its cuisine, the signature restaurant prepares regional Khmer and French dishes using heirloom recipes from the Royal Palace. Meanwhile, the famed Elephant Bar serves as the top watering hole in town. Those reserving premier rooms or all suites receive complimentary butler service complementing the stately accommodations. Well-positioned in the northern area, the property lies within easy reach of notable landmarks like Wat Phnom Temple, the Old Market, and Central Market, along with nearby street eats.

2. Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra – Tonle Basak

a living room filled with tables and chairsHotel phone: +855 23 999 200
This luxury hotel is a great choice for families with its amenities. It possesses two swimming pools, a playground for children, and a kids` club, along with spacious suites and interconnecting rooms. Blending classic French elegance with contemporary Khmese touches, patrons can expect an unparalleled experience in the indulgent spa or signature restaurant, La Coupole. The hotel also has top-tier Chinese, Japanese, and Italian dining establishments as well as a French patisserie. Situated on the southern part of town opposite Aeon Mall with walking proximity to Independence Memorial and Wat Botom Temple, it is just a brief autorickshaw ride from Russian Market.

3. La Rose Suites – Tonle Basak

a bedroom with a large bed and a large windowHotel phone: +855 23 222 254
Steeped in local customs, this five-star boutique inn graciously provides all guests with a free hour-long massage daily during their stay. It features an exquisite Khmer dining venue along with nightly traditional dance performances, an lush garden pool, and live violin upon request. With an experience-centric approach celebrating Khmer culture, La Rose also offers classes in traditional massage and cuisine. Visitors can anticipate truly outstanding and friendly care from beginning to end. Located two blocks east of Independence Memorial within walking distance of Royal Palace, National Museum, and three of the city’s oldest temples – Wat Botum, Wat Langka and Wat Ounalom.

4. White Mansion – Doun Penh

a living room filled with furniture and a large windowHotel phone: +855 89 372 700
This stylish boutique hotel boasts the city`s premier spa, showcasing a global menu of treatments alongside a French bakery, round-the-clock pool, and poolside refreshments. Originally housing U.S. embassy staff, the design blends White House influences with traditional Khmer furnishings. Accommodations are adequately sized, many with balconies and dual washroom sinks. Centrally situated near Independence Monument, and within walking distance of the National Museum, Royal Palace, and Riverfront.

5. Pavilion – Doun Penh

a large swimming pool in a tropical settingHotel phone: +855 23 222 280
This luxury boutique hotel is situated in the former residence of Queen Kossamak. It offers polished adult-only accommodations including two swimming pools, a massage spa, and two casual poolside lounges. The rooms at the Pavilion hotel come in several styles such as large suites and bungalows, some with private plunge pools or jacuzzis. All guests are provided a complimentary 25-minute welcome massage. The hotel enjoys a very safe location on a street near the Prime Minister`s home, which is typically closed to vehicular traffic for security reasons. It is centrally situated between the Royal Palace and Independence Monument, within walking distance to the Riverfront, Central Market, temples, and street food vendors.

6. The Great Duke Phnom Penh – Tumnob Tuek

an outdoor swimming pool with a balcony overlooking a cityHotel phone: +855 23 424 888
As the pioneering five-star international establishment constructed in Cambodia after the 1990s, the InterContinental still provides a tranquil spa, gourmet dining, and a pool drawing inspiration from the majestic Angkor temples. Guests can select from standard and premium room accommodations, expansive suites, and self-catered apartments. Situated between the commercial downtown and airport terminals, the InterContinental makes for a brief motorized tuk tuk journey to the bustling Russian Market bazaar, the sobering history of Tuol Sleng, and the lively bars and eateries populating the capital`s BKK1 district.

7. iRoHa Garden Hotel & Resort – Tonle Basak

a living room filled with furniture and a large windowHotel phone: +855 11 775 752
This boutique resort is housed in a historic colonial building in the city. It boasts a secluded pool area, tranquil garden, cozy spa facilities, a bar, and on-site restaurant. However, this property is perhaps best known for its attentive personalized service. The proprietors oversee daily operations and are available to assist guests, crafting tailored recommendations for meaningful visits around the urban locale. Daily breakfast is incorporated into room rates, offering a selection of traditional Khmer fare or Western-style meals. The team here exhibits the most cordial demeanor of all establishments in the city. The resort is situated on the southern periphery, near both the Vietnamese embassy and several other diplomatic missions. It has walkable access to the renowned Russian Market, a prominent mall, and is within a brief tuk-tuk ride of significant cultural sites, the downtown core, or the riverfront promenade.

8. The Governors House – BKK1

a white bed sitting in a room next to a windowHotel phone: +855 23 987 025
The Governors House in Phnom Penh offers a blend of colonial architecture and antique decor with modern conveniences. The property features a swimming pool, bar, and diverse dining selections. Iguazu restaurant specializes in Argentine-style grilled meats while The Grand serves both Khmer and international cuisine. Guests at the pool bar can enjoy strong drinks poolside while picking fresh mangoes direct from surrounding trees. All room types provide comparable amenities, though higher room categories such as Landmark Rooms supply more spacious accommodations and additional luxuries. The Governors House is located on the edge of BKK1 district near popular spots like Tonle Basak, Aeon Mall, Russian Market, and Independence Monument within walking distance.

9. The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa – Doun Penh

a room filled with tables, chairs, and umbrellasHotel phone: +855 23 215 151
This former boutique hotel downtown is popular among local residents and expatriates for its periodic art exhibitions, rooftop dining establishment featuring French-Khmer fusion cuisine, and fashion presentations held every six weeks in its gallery space. Built in the 1930s, the heritage property also contains two pools, a stylish lounge area, and a massage spa. Airy guest rooms and suites feature canopy beds and balconies or terraces overlooking the surroundings; the largest accommodation unit, spanning 200 square meters, incorporates three outdoor terraces, an individual hot tub, a cocktail bar, and a barbecue area. Conveniently located just behind the grounds of the Royal Palace and within walking distance of the National Museum, temples, and Central Market.

10. La Maison d’Ambre – Voat Phnum

a living room filled with furniture and a tvHotel phone: +855 23 222 780
This trendsetting boutique property consists solely of studio and multi-room suites averaging 60 to 120 square meters in size and inspired by classic cinema. All units incorporate full kitchens, and some offer soaking tubs or patios with scenic town views. Their rooftop eatery provides stunning sunset panoramas along with a casually elegant 1970s atmosphere serving French fare and craft cocktails. Central locations make the hotel ideally situated within a short walk of the Old Marketplace, marketplace, royal palace, and medieval temples dotting the city.

11. Blue Lime – Doun Penh

a swimming pool with a pool table and chairsHotel phone: +855 23 222 260
This adults-only establishment in the center of the city offers guests various amenities for relaxation and enjoyment. The property features an open-air courtyard, a saltwater pool, and a chef-driven dining venue specializing in creative takes on local street cuisine. An acclaimed mixologist oversees the on-site lounge popular for relaxed socializing during happy hour hours. Guest rooms provide canopy beds and picturesque views from private balconies or plunge pools in select accommodations. Situated near noteworthy destinations like the Royal Palace, Central Market, Riverfront area, and Wat Langka temple, the hotel is suitably positioned for exploration on foot.

12. Casa Villa Independence – BKK1

a bedroom with a bed and a chairHotel phone: +855 23 211 729
The charming Casa Villa offers spacious accommodations including rooms, suites, and unique apartments alongside fantastic amenities such as a garden pool, all-day poolside bar, and complimentary breakfast. The lodgings showcase Franco-Cambodian design elements incorporating century-old salvaged floor tiles from Siem Reap and custom handcrafted rattan beds meticulously constructed by families over the span of two months. Numerous lodgings contain full kitchens. The attentive staff provides personalized service and recommendations. Conveniently situated two blocks south of Wat Langka and Independence Monument, it is within easy walking distance of the National Museum, riverfront, and Aeon Mall.

13. Anik Boutique Hotel & Spa on Norodom Boulevard – Tonle Basak

a pool with a pool table and chairs in itHotel phone: +855 23 222 507
An self-governing accommodation, the Anik houses a pool and spa, along with superb dining and refreshments. Their spa emphasizes massage, using Khmer methods and aromatherapy, with two Jacuzzis (one heated, one chilled), as well as steam and sauna areas. Lodging and suite possibilities are diverse. Some include full kitchens or soaking tubs, and all besides three chambers have balconies. The hotel sits on the southern end of town, near Aeon Mall, within strolling distance to the Independence Monument, and a brief tuk tuk ride to the Russian Marketplace.

14. Queen Grand Boutique Hotel and Spa – Riverfront

a hotel room with a bed and two lampsHotel phone: +855 23 219 621
This luxurious hostelry boasts a cosy spa offering massage therapies, restaurants specializing in both Western fare and Khmer cuisine, and a rooftop lounge and shallow diving pool affording panoramic perspectives of the urbanscape as well as glimpses of the meandering Mekong River in the distance. Accommodations are spacious and sunlit with decor paying tribute to Cambodian artistry, many with private balconies. Situated in close proximity to Wat Botum Recreational Park, just a brief stroll to the nightly marketplace and the bars, eateries, and evening festivities lining the riverfront.

15. Pasteur 51 Hotel & Residences – Riverfront

a dining room filled with tables and chairsHotel phone: +855 23 222 878
In a vibrant section of town along the river, this laidback hotel provides convenient access to various bars, restaurants and a nightly street market on foot. Relaxing spaces include a rooftop pool and lounge with scenic views of the Mekong River below. A cheery all-hours eatery downstairs satisfies hungry guests. Modern in-room comforts like rainfall showers and some units with tubs or porches further enhance stays. Central sites like Wat Botum temple and Independence Monument lay south while the Royal Palace and National Museum sit north within short travel distance.

Staying in Voat Phnum

a row of stairs leading up to a balcony The religious site referred to as Wat Phnom after its fourteen century temple. This northern area of the city is where civilization was first established, as it`s said that a woman named Penh built a shrine atop the elevation point, thereby founding the settlement. The elevation remains the highest vertical position in the city, and Wat Phnom towers above all other sacred structures. The temple grounds have additional land containing numerous long-tailed macaques (travelers must use caution around these creatures, as interactions can pose risks!) People congregate here in mid-April or late September/early October to join in the temple`s yearly festivities commemorating Khmer New Year and Ancestors` Observance

To the east of the temple grounds are historic mansions, Art Deco structures, and tree-lined avenues from colonial times. This area houses several galleries, upscale eateries, and swanky bars along with Democracy Park and the Old Market.

Best Hotels in Voat Phnum

Best Restaurants in Voat Phnum

Staying in Doun Penh

a large building with a clock on the front of it Though Voat Phnum just to the north is seen as the city core, Doun Penh is where most of the city’s attractions can be found. This area acts as the commercial center of the city, with plenty of markets, including the popular Sorya Center Point. The landmark Central Market constructed in Art Deco style is here too, with endless stalls selling everything from clothing to jewelry and from trinkets to produce. There are many inexpensive and delicious local food stalls here and just south of the main market. This region also includes the Royal Palace, the historic temples Wat Koh and Wat Botum, and the Independence Monument. Street 240 is lined with charming restaurants and bars.

Best Hotels in Doun Penh

Best restaurants in Doun Penh

  • Romdeng – $$-$$$ – Inspired and traditional Khmer cuisine, ranging from flavorful amok to wild fried tarantulas! Additionally, this is one of the city`s top restaurants and also a training center for former street kids.
  • Cousin’s Burger & Coffee • $ • Hamburgers and quick eats.
  • Khema • High-End • French gastronomy. Reservations suggested.

Staying in Riverfront

a street scene with people walking down the street The Riverfront area of Phnom Penh near the confluence of the Tonle Sap and Mekong Rivers bustles with activity. Sisowath Quay, the central drag, serves as the city`s nightlife center, brimming with shops, galleries, eateries, and watering holes. A notable fixture is the Foreign Correspondents’ Club, a popular expat pub and hotel housed in a three-story French colonial building, enjoying Mekong views. Two night markets bookend the neighborhood, which also features attractions such as the National Museum and Wat Ounalom. Locals often congregate toward the south end, especially at the park opposite the Royal Palace where open-air exercise classes occur during mornings and evenings.

Best Hotels on the Riverfront

Best Restaurants on the Riverfront

  • Friends – Moderate to expensive Cambodian and international small plates. Another training restaurant affiliated with Romdeng.
  • Kabbas – $ – Excellent, affordable local-style food and drinks.
  • FCC • $$-$$$ • Gorgeous Mekong views and cheap, strong drinks.

Staying in BKK1

a patio area with tables, chairs and umbrellas Boeung Keng Kang 1 is surrounded by Sihanouk, Norodom, Mao Tse Tung, and Monivong Boulevards, southwest of the Independence Monument and including Wat Langka. Known as the area for “foreigners”, this location is home to most of the embassies, NGO offices, and many expats. Street 278 is lined with Western-style restaurants and bars, popular for lunch but liveliest in the early evening around dinnertime. Street 51 is the hotspot for nightlife, with several hostess bars operating into the late hours or even until sunrise.

Best Hotels in BKK1

Best Restaurants in BKK1

  • Bistrot Langka • $$-$$$ – A highly regarded French restaurant located in Phnom Penh known for its quality cuisine. The entrance is discreet, located down an alleyway behind another structure.
  • Mok Mony – $ – Offers authentic Khmer cuisine with no frills.
  • Casablanca • $$-$$$ • Offering upscale Moroccan cuisine.
  • Andart Rorm Seafood Restaurant • $$-$$$ • Small local chain offering casual Khmer seafood dishes.

Staying in Tonle Basak

a mall with a lot of people in it Adjacent to the Duomo sits another of Milan’s most noteworthy historical and cultural buildings, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Constructed in the mid-1800s, its sheer magnitude proves impressive, with two complete blocks sheltered by a towering glass ceiling (reconstructed following damage sustained in WWII). Shops and eateries can be discovered throughout intended for exploration, and a number of intriguing legends associated with it; for example, the mosaic of the bull situated in the center of the complex is renowned for supposedly bringing good fortune —when you spin your heel on the bull’s genital region. Comparable to the Duomo, you should consider a guided tour (many are available encompassing both the Duomo and the Galleria) that can walk you through all the significant symbols and works of art within the structure)

Best Hotels in Tonle Basak

Best Restaurants in Tonle Basak

  • Malis • $$$$ • Excellent Khmer fine dining.
  • Botanico – $$-$$$ – Offers craft beers and casual dining options.

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