Where to stay in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, sits where the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers meet. It's a city of gilded palaces and pagodas, French colonial buildings, busy markets and a riverside promenade that comes alive at sunset.

It's also where visitors come to understand Cambodia's recent history, at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek memorial. The places we list are in the central districts near Wat Phnom and Tuol Sleng, with one spa residence on the quieter edge of the city.

Getting around
Tuk-tuks, ride-hailing apps and taxis
Main sights
Royal Palace, National Museum, Central Market, Tuol Sleng
Best season
Roughly November to February, when it's coolest
Onward travel
Buses to Siem Reap, Sihanoukville and Kampot; boats along the Mekong

Places to stay in Phnom Penh

4 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Phnom Penh, area by area

Central Phnom Penh is compact, running south from Wat Phnom along the river to the Royal Palace, with residential districts further south and west.

Wat Phnom and the riverside

Best for sightseeing and the riverfront

Wat Phnom, the hilltop temple that gave the city its name, sits at the northern end of the centre, close to the Vattanac Capital tower and the art deco Central Market. The Sisowath Quay riverfront, the Royal Palace and the National Museum are a short tuk-tuk ride south.

Tuol Sleng and BKK

Best for cafes, history and quieter streets

South of the centre, the Boeung Keng Kang (BKK) area has cafes, restaurants and boutique hotels. Nearby, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum occupies a former school used as a prison under the Khmer Rouge, and the Russian Market is a short ride away.

The southern outskirts

Best for space and quiet

Further south, the city gives way to quieter suburbs. The Choeung Ek memorial, often called the Killing Fields, is here, about 15 km from the centre.

Questions about staying in Phnom Penh

How many days do I need in Phnom Penh?

Two or three days is enough to see the Royal Palace, the National Museum, the markets, Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek, and enjoy the riverside.

How do I get around?

Tuk-tuks are everywhere, and ride-hailing apps make fares easy. Agree the price before setting off if you hail one on the street.

Is it appropriate to visit Tuol Sleng and Choeung Ek?

Yes, both are memorials as well as museums. Visitors are asked to dress modestly and behave respectfully. The audio guides are highly regarded.

What should I eat in Phnom Penh?

Try fish amok, beef lok lak, kuy teav noodle soup for breakfast and num banh chok, rice noodles with a green fish curry. The markets and riverside food stalls are good places to start.

How do I get to Siem Reap from Phnom Penh?

By bus or minivan in around six hours, or by a short domestic flight.

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