Looking for where to stay in Phnom Penh? You’ve come to the right place. Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city full of history, culture, and modernity. During our second round-the-world trip in February 2025, we stayed at the luxurious Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, an unforgettable experience. Here are the best areas to stay in Phnom Penh, our experience at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra, and accommodation tips for different budgets.
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Is Phnom Penh Safe?
When visiting Phnom Penh, pay attention to potentially risky areas, especially at night. Avoid the Riverside area after midnight, the surroundings of the train station, and quieter areas like Chaom Chao, Meanchey, and Russei Keo. Stay vigilant against pickpocketing, especially in tourist spots and busy markets.
Wat Phnom and the northern part of the city are considered more dangerous due to attracting wealthier tourists. Always use common sense: don’t display valuable items, avoid walking alone in isolated areas after dark, and opt for safe transport options like ride-sharing apps such as Grab or recommended tuk-tuks.
Best Areas to Stay in Phnom Penh
- Tonle Bassac: A growing area with boutique hotels, upscale restaurants, and a more local vibe, perfect for those wanting to explore Phnom Penh with a more authentic touch.
- Riverside: Ideal for those who want to be in the heart of the action, with easy access to attractions like the Royal Palace and National Museum.
- BKK1: A modern and peaceful area, perfect for families and couples looking for comfort.
- Daun Penh: The historic district with French colonial architecture and proximity to iconic tourist spots.
Where to Stay in Tonle Bassac
Why stay here?
Tonle Bassac is a vibrant and growing area, known for its boutique hotels, upscale restaurants, and a more local vibe. A great choice for those looking to explore Phnom Penh with comfort and authenticity.
- Budget: The Bridge Club – An affordable option with modern rooms and a pool.
- Mid-range: Baitong Hotel & Resort – Stylish design, peaceful ambiance, and a beautiful pool.
- Luxury: Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra – Where we stayed! A five-star hotel with impeccable service, amazing restaurants, and a relaxing pool.
Our Experience at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
1. Arrival and First Impressions
Arriving at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra is like stepping into another world. Amid the city’s frenetic pace, we found a luxury retreat in a 7-hectare property, where everything seems meticulously designed to create a memorable experience. The elegant and welcoming lobby greets us with a sophisticated atmosphere and one of the hotel’s bars. Check-in is casual, and from the start, we felt that every detail — from the decor to the service, including the welcome drink — reflected a commitment to excellence. We couldn’t wait to see the room!
2. The Room
As soon as we entered the room, we were impressed by the space and the stunning view of the Mekong River and Phnom Penh’s skyline. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and as part of Sofitel’s service, we could choose from different types of pillows to ensure a perfect night’s sleep. There was also a seating area and a work zone, something we greatly appreciated, as that’s where we wrote this post!
3. Gastronomy
We had three amazing gastronomic moments at the hotel, split between two of its various restaurants. The breakfast at La Coupole was simply divine – an impressive selection of international and local dishes, prepared with a quality that left us in awe. On our last day, since we were leaving very early, they prepared a breakfast box for us to take to the airport.
We had lunch twice at the hotel: once at La Coupole, where we had an amazing French gastronomy experience, and another time at the Japanese restaurant – Hachi, where we tried a bento box with authentic, super fresh sushi – one of those meals you wish you could have again!
4. Leisure and Well-being
With the intense heat of Phnom Penh, the outdoor pool was a true paradise. But the highlight was undoubtedly the experience at the Sofitel Spa. We had one of their signature massages, and honestly, it was one of the best we had in Cambodia. Yes, the price matches the luxury of the space, but every penny is worth it. If you’re staying at another hotel, here’s a tip: the spa is open to the public, and it’s a great place to pamper yourself and relax in a sophisticated environment.
5. Location and Accessibility
Although it is a bit far from the center, Sofitel is strategically located near emerging areas of the city, full of restaurants, shops, and nightlife. And getting around Phnom Penh is super easy! Grab works really well, and taking a tuk-tuk is always a fun and cheap option – we never paid more than €1 per ride.
6. What We Liked Most
- The perfect balance between luxury and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh
- The impeccable service that turns the stay into a truly memorable experience
- The quality of the gastronomy, which surprised us at every meal
7. Is It Worth Staying at Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra?
Definitely! Yes, the price is higher than other hotels in the city, but considering the level of service, facilities, and overall experience, the value for money is excellent as an option where to stay in Phnom Penh. Plus, if you’ve already saved a lot on other accommodations in Cambodia, why not end your trip with a memorable stay at the Sofitel Phnom Penh?
Where to Stay on the Riverside
Why stay here?
It’s the city’s tourist heart and a great place to stay in Phnom Penh, offering incredible views of the Tonle Sap River and plenty of entertainment options.
- Budget: Onederz Hostel – Simple and cozy, ideal for backpackers.
- Mid-range: Harmony Phnom Penh Hotel – Comfortable, with a rooftop pool.
- Luxury: Rosewood Phnom Penh – A sophisticated hotel with panoramic city views.
Where to Stay in BKK1
Why stay here?
A quieter and more modern area, with great restaurants and unique accommodations, making it an excellent option to stay in Phnom Penh.
- Budget: Emerald Hotel Residence – A youthful and relaxed atmosphere.
- Mid-range: Courtyard by Marriott Phnom Penh – Contemporary design with a rooftop pool.
- Luxury: Raffles Hotel Le Royal – A historic icon with colonial charm and timeless elegance.
Where to Stay in Daun Penh
Why stay here?
Perfect for those who appreciate history and colonial architecture when choosing where to stay in Phnom Penh.
- Budget: Mad Monkey Hostel – Popular among backpackers for its lively vibe.
- Mid-range: Novotel Phnom Penh BKK1 – Modern and convenient with excellent service.
- Luxury: Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel – Charming and well-located.
Extra Tips for Your Stay in Phnom Penh
- Must-see attractions: Killing Fields, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and Wat Phnom.
- Best time to visit: From November to March, during the dry season.
- Transport: Use tuk-tuks or apps like Grab to get around easily.
- Mobile data: To stay connected, we recommend Holafly eSIM, with a 5% discount using our code.
- Travel insurance: For a stress-free trip, Heymondo is a great option. You can get a 5% discount with our code.
- Payments: Cards are accepted in some places, but QR Code payments are widely used. The Bakong app is now available for tourists.
- Drinking water: Tap water in Phnom Penh is not potable. It’s recommended to drink bottled water. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafés provide bottled water, and it’s easy to find in local stores.
No matter where you choose to stay in Phnom Penh, book in advance to secure the best options. Phnom Penh is waiting for you with unique experiences!