Where to Stay in Phnom Penh - Top Picks for Best Value Hotels

Phnom Penh has an excellent range of accommodation options available, from simple hostels to luxury boutique hotels. The two most popular areas to stay are the Riverfront (Sisowath Quay) and Central Phnom Penh, both of which offer a variety of accommodations.

Central Phnom Penh

This is where you will also find the majority of the main tourist attractions, including the Royal Palace and National Museum, as well as an abundance of eateries, cafes and restaurants plus Central Market.

If you are on a tight budget, you still can score a room for about US$5 in Phnom Penh. The best area to search for such budget friendly deals is the Central Phnom Penh, north of Preah Sihanouk boulevard, near Wat Langka or Street 111.

One of the best choices in the budget category is SLA Boutique Hostel at15, St 174 (rooms under US$10). If it weren’t for all the backpackers, you’d be tricked into thinking that SLA was a boutique hotel rather than a hostel. Sophisticated and elegant, SLA is run by a dedicated team of helpful and efficient staff. The dorms are spotlessly clean and there is a cool bar area where you can hang out and socialise with other travellers. They also offer double bed dorms, so it’s perfect for couples on a budget.

There are good midrange options in the central part of Phnom Penh, too. Solid midrange deals are offered at about US$50, though you can find some very handsome rooms on offer from US$35. We recommend checking Blue Lime at 42, off St 19, which is
perfect for those of you seeking some privacy and relaxation. Tucked down a small alleyway, Blue Lime has its own infinity pool in a shady garden setting – the ideal spot to seek some solitude and rest after a long day of sightseeing. The garden is also an excellent place to enjoy their complimentary breakfast, or a cocktail at the in-house bar. If privacy is a must, try upgrading to a room with a private plunge pool or mini garden.

Options from US$100 and up are on the luxurious end of accommodation choices in Phnom Penh. Compared to what you can find at more or less similar price in Europe, they offer extremely great value, like The Plantation does, located at18, St 184. To be poetic, The Plantation is a slice of secluded luxury in an otherwise chaotic city, and it’s not nearly as pricey as you might think considering it’s a 5 star hotel. The architecture of the hotel is quirky to say the least, encapsulating both New Khmer and French colonial style. As a result of the mixed building types, there are variety of rooms on offer, from a simple double to a deluxe suite. All rooms come with air-con and the price includes a complimentary breakfast buffet. Other facilities include several outdoor pools, a small spa, and a gym. The hotel also boasts an excellent and well-priced restaurant, serving both lunch and dinner. Please note that guests must be over the age of 16 to stay at the Pavilion.

Riverfront (Sisowath Quay)

Though in general accommodation in the Riverfront tends to be more expensive than in Central Phnom Penh, Riverfront still offers some inexpensive options, too. Many properties here have great views across the water. Riverview adds to the atmospheric experience, and you will not need to travel far to find a great dig to delight your taste buds – Sisowath Quay is the main waterfront promenade in Phnom Penh, where you can find a great selection of cafes, restaurants and bars.

One Stop Hostel at 85, Sisowath Quay, with rooms selling under $US10, is a great affordable option for backpackers or travellers on a budget. The dorms are well kept and have both air-con and spacious lockers. Staff are very friendly, and although it’s not really a party place, there is a social atmosphere and a large comfy common room. They also have computers and a good value breakfast menu. One Stop now have hostels in Siem Reap and Sihanoukville, too.

If you are looking for good value in a great location, then look no further than Adore (213/17, Sisowath Quay, US$40). The Khmer style rooms are beautifully furnished, and the ones at the front of the hotel have a river view. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV, air-con and mini fridge. Location wise, it’s within walking distance of most tourist attractions, with plenty of dining and drinking options nearby.

For a touch of luxury, The Quay Boutique Hotel at 277, Sisowath Quay, is a wise choice. Modern, stylish and perfectly located, The Quay boasts a restaurant, rooftop bar, and spa facilities. If you’re looking for a riverside view and money is no issue, then make sure to book a panoramic suite. The suites have private balconies, a lounge area and a classy ensuite bathroom. If the Quay is fully booked, there are several other similarly priced options along the riverside.