Hotels in Phnom Penh — where to stay on arrival

In 3 bullets

• For moving in: start with a hotel or furnished guesthouse on a short-term basis (1–4 weeks) in BKK1 or Toul Tom Poung while you look for an apartment without pressure.
• Value for money: 3–4 star boutique hotels at 50–100 USD/night offer excellent comfort in Phnom Penh — the city has not yet reached the price parity of major Asian capitals.
• Long-stay rooms: some hotels offer monthly rates (800–1,500 USD/month all-inclusive) for transitions between apartments.

Choosing your neighbourhood

BKK1 & Tonle Bassac

The best-equipped expat neighbourhood. Most boutique hotels and serviced residences are concentrated here. Easy walking access to restaurants, supermarkets and estate agencies.

Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market)

More local atmosphere, prices slightly lower than BKK1. Ideal for expats wanting to immerse themselves quickly. Fewer 4/5-star options but quality guesthouses.

Daun Penh / Riverside

Views over the Tonlé Sap, close to the Royal Palace. More touristy but practical for the first few days.

Accommodation by category

Guesthouses and small hotels (20–60 USD/night)

Comfortable and air-conditioned for tighter budgets. Wi-Fi included, often with breakfast. TTP and Daun Penh areas are the best-stocked.

3–4 star boutique hotels (60–150 USD/night)

The most interesting category for expats moving in. Pool often included, fast wi-fi, decent English-speaking service.

Established examples among the expat community:

• Hotel Cambodiana (Tonle Bassac) — historic hotel with views over the Tonlé Sap, pool, restaurant. ~90–130 USD/night.
• Palace Gate Hotel (Tonle Bassac) — modern boutique hotel, calm atmosphere, close to embassies. ~80–120 USD/night.
• The Pavilion (BKK1) — colonial atmosphere, garden, pool, total quiet in the heart of BKK1. ~70–110 USD/night.

5-star hotels and international chains (150–300 USD/night)

Hyatt Regency Phnom Penh — the most noteworthy recent opening. International standing, rooftop bar, pool, meeting rooms. ~180–250 USD.

Raffles Hotel Le Royal — Phnom Penh’s historic hotel (1929), colonial, tropical garden, Elephant Bar. Expect 200–300 USD/night.

Rosewood Phnom Penh (Vattanac Capital Tower) — contemporary luxury, panoramic city views. ~200–280 USD.

Serviced residences (long stays)

For 2–6 week transitions, serviced apartments are ideal. Equipped kitchen, hotel services, monthly rate.

• Vimean Thmei Residence (BKK1) — studio to 1-bed, 900–1,400 USD/month.
• Diamond Island Residences (Koh Pich) — modern studios, river views, 800–1,200 USD/month.

Reference rates

Tips for expats moving in

1. Budget 2–4 weeks of hotel to visit apartments and sign a lease. Don’t rush to rent on arrival.
2. Negotiate a monthly rate: if you stay more than 7 nights, ask for a weekly or monthly rate.
3. Check the internet connection before paying: some mid-range hotels have unreliable wi-fi. Ask to test it in the room.
4. Proximity to transport: BKK1 is ideal for exploring the city on foot and understanding Phnom Penh’s geography before choosing your future neighbourhood.

FAQ

Can I use the hotel address for administrative purposes?

Temporarily yes — some hotels can provide a proof of accommodation. But for consular procedures or opening a bank account, a permanent residential address (apartment) is preferable.

Should I book in advance during high season?

During the tourist high season (December–January, around the Khmer New Year in April), good boutique hotels fill up quickly. Book 2–4 weeks in advance for predictable dates.

Do hotels accept pets?

Very rarely in standard hotels. Some guesthouses accept small animals (confirm before booking). Expats arriving with pets should plan for a residential or temporary boarding solution.

Do hotels offer an airport shuttle?

4/5-star hotels and some boutique hotels offer a shuttle service (included or 15–25 USD). Otherwise, PassApp car from Techo KTI: 12–18 USD depending on the neighbourhood.