Quick Answer
Travelers in Phnom Penh often choose to stay in BKK1, a central neighborhood offering mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses priced between $20 and $70 per night, with easy access to dining and nightlife. Other popular areas include the Riverside for a more tourist-focused experience and Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market) for budget accommodations and local markets. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses starting around $10 to upscale hotels exceeding $100 per night.
Best for
Mid-range travelers seeking central location with convenient access to restaurants and nightlife.
Main advantage
BKK1’s walkability and variety of accommodation types within a reasonable price range close to the city center.
Main tradeoff
Can be busy and less quiet compared to residential neighborhoods, with some traffic noise.
Good alternative
Riverside area for those wanting proximity to major attractions and a more tourist-oriented atmosphere.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia's capital, presents a range of accommodation options to suit diverse preferences and budgets.
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From the lively and convenient BKK1 district to quieter neighborhoods, visitors can find hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments that align with their travel needs. This guide outlines key areas to stay, including price ranges and proximity to major attractions, helping travelers make informed choices while visiting Phnom Penh.
Entry to Angkor Archaeological Park costs around $37 for a one-day pass, but purchasing a multi-day pass (3 or 7 days) can save money if you plan extended visits.
Hotels in Phnom Penh: BKK1, Riverside, Royal Palace Area
Key hotel areas in Phnom Penh
Complete GuideWhere to Stay in Cambodia: Best Areas and HotelsRead the full guide
What makes BKK1 a popular choice for accommodation in Phnom Penh?
BKK1 is popular due to its central location, variety of accommodations, and easy access to dining and nightlife.
BKK1, located approximately 3 km from the city center, features a mix of mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses with prices typically between $20 and $70 per night. This area is known for its walkability, with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby. Additionally, it is about a 15-minute drive from Phnom Penh International Airport, making it convenient for travelers.
BKK1, located approximately 3 km from the city center, features a mix of mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses with prices typically between $20 and $70 per night. This area is known for its walkability, with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants nearby. Additionally, it is about a 15-minute drive from Phnom Penh International Airport, making it convenient for travelers.
Book your BKK1 accommodation at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (November to February), to secure the best rates and avoid last-minute price surges.
Are there affordable accommodation options outside BKK1?
Yes, areas such as Russian Market and Toul Tom Poung offer budget-friendly stays under $15 per night.
Russian Market, about 4 km from BKK1, is known for guesthouses and hostels with prices starting around $10. Toul Tom Poung is slightly closer to the center and provides budget hotels averaging $12 to $20 per night. Both neighborhoods have local markets and eateries within walking distance, ideal for travelers looking to save on accommodation while staying near key attractions.
Russian Market, about 4 km from BKK1, is known for guesthouses and hostels with prices starting around $10. Toul Tom Poung is slightly closer to the center and provides budget hotels averaging $12 to $20 per night. Both neighborhoods have local markets and eateries within walking distance, ideal for travelers looking to save on accommodation while staying near key attractions.
Take a local tuk-tuk from BKK1 to Russian Market or Toul Tom Poung; the ride typically costs around $2-3 and takes 10-15 minutes, making it faster and cheaper than taxis or moto rides.
What are the benefits of staying near the Riverside area?
The Riverside area features scenic river views and proximity to cultural landmarks, with accommodation prices from $30 to $100 per night.
Situated along the Tonle Sap River, the Riverside district is roughly 2 km east of BKK1. Visitors can find hotels and serviced apartments within a 10-minute walk to sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum. While prices are generally higher than in BKK1, the scenic setting and busy street life at night add value for many travelers.
Situated along the Tonle Sap River, the Riverside district is roughly 2 km east of BKK1. Visitors can find hotels and serviced apartments within a 10-minute walk to sights like the Royal Palace and National Museum. While prices are generally higher than in BKK1, the scenic setting and busy street life at night add value for many travelers.
Walk along the Riverside in the early evening around sunset when the riverfront bars and cafes light up, offering a relaxing atmosphere without the daytime heat or daytime tourist crowds.
How accessible are Phnom Penh’s airport and main tourist sites from popular neighborhoods?
Most key neighborhoods are within a 15 to 25-minute drive to Phnom Penh International Airport and major sites.
For example, BKK1 is about 15 minutes by car (roughly 12 km) from the airport, while Riverside and Russian Market are around 20 minutes away. The Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are reachable within 10 to 15 minutes from central districts. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available, making it easy to navigate between accommodations and tourist attractions.
For example, BKK1 is about 15 minutes by car (roughly 12 km) from the airport, while Riverside and Russian Market are around 20 minutes away. The Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are reachable within 10 to 15 minutes from central districts. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available, making it easy to navigate between accommodations and tourist attractions.
When paying for tuk-tuks near Phnom Penh’s airport or tourist sites, always negotiate the fare before starting the ride to avoid being overcharged, especially if you don't have local currency on hand.
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What types of accommodations are best suited for families in Phnom Penh?
Serviced apartments and mid-range hotels with family rooms in BKK1 and Riverside are ideal for families.
Many serviced apartments in BKK1 provide kitchens and extra space, with weekly rates starting around $300. Riverside hotels often have family suites with prices ranging from $50 to $120 per night. These areas also have parks and restaurants suitable for children, making them convenient for family stays.
Many serviced apartments in BKK1 provide kitchens and extra space, with weekly rates starting around $300. Riverside hotels often have family suites with prices ranging from $50 to $120 per night. These areas also have parks and restaurants suitable for children, making them convenient for family stays.
Check if your serviced apartment in BKK1 features free access to nearby playgrounds or kid-friendly pools, as many family-focused rentals include these amenities to keep children entertained without extra cost.
Is it easy to find luxury accommodation in Phnom Penh?
Luxury hotels are primarily located near Riverside and central Phnom Penh, with rates from $100 to $250 per night.
Upscale establishments such as five-star hotels offer amenities including pools, spas, and international dining options. These properties are often within walking distance to major attractions and business districts. Guests can expect high standards of service and facilities, suitable for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Upscale establishments such as five-star hotels offer amenities including pools, spas, and international dining options. These properties are often within walking distance to major attractions and business districts. Guests can expect high standards of service and facilities, suitable for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
What other Cambodian cities are worth visiting after Phnom Penh?
Cambodian cities like Battambang, Kampot, and Siem Reap offer distinct experiences and are accessible from Phnom Penh.
Battambang is approximately 300 km northwest and reachable by a 5-6 hour bus ride. Kampot lies about 150 km to the south, around a 3-hour drive, known for its riverside charm. Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, is roughly 320 km north and takes about 6-7 hours by road. These destinations provide alternative accommodation options and sightseeing opportunities beyond Phnom Penh.
Battambang is approximately 300 km northwest and reachable by a 5-6 hour bus ride. Kampot lies about 150 km to the south, around a 3-hour drive, known for its riverside charm. Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, is roughly 320 km north and takes about 6-7 hours by road. These destinations provide alternative accommodation options and sightseeing opportunities beyond Phnom Penh.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common way is by taxi or tuk-tuk, taking around 15 minutes depending on traffic. Airport taxis have fixed rates around $10-$15, while tuk-tuks are cheaper, costing about $5-$7.
Yes, BKK1 has several supermarkets and convenience stores within walking distance, such as Lucky Supermarket and small local shops, making it easy to buy groceries and essentials.
Most hotels and guesthouses in Phnom Penh have check-in times starting from 2 PM and check-out by 12 PM. Early check-in or late check-out may be available upon request but could incur additional charges.
The Riverside area is generally safe at night with many people around, but it is advisable to stay in well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets, especially when alone.
The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit Phnom Penh, as this period has less rainfall and more comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
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“BKK1’s central location makes it popular, but I often recommend staying near the Riverside if you want to be closer to Phnom Penh’s main cultural sites. Both areas have good options for families, with quieter streets and easy access to markets and parks.”
Sophea Chum/ Local Tour Guide
What are useful resources for traveling in Cambodia?
Phnom Penh Official Tourism Website
The official site for Cambodia’s tourism with information on Phnom Penh’s attractions and accommodations.
TripAdvisor Phnom Penh Hotels
User reviews and hotel listings to help travelers compare accommodation options in Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh International Airport
Official website providing details on airport services, transport options, and flight schedules.
Where I Stayed in Phnom PenhMarcus Cent · 3 photos
I stayed at the Chaiya Palace Hotel in Phnom Penh, a modern place close to the Royal Palace and the river. At $55 a night for bed and breakfast, it felt like good value. The rooftop had a great view of the Phnom Penh skyline at night, and the <a href="/cambodia/cities/angkor" class="internal-link">Angkor</a> beer at under a dollar a bottle didn't hurt either. I'd stay there again.
All photos taken by Marcus Cent
