Top reasons to visit Phnom Penh
- Cultural Exploration: Discover the rich heritage of Phnom Penh through its stunning temples and monuments, reflecting the city's history and traditions.
- Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Stroll through charming areas like Doun Penh, where friendly locals and lively markets create an inviting atmosphere.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a range of outdoor adventures and family-oriented attractions, ensuring fun for all ages.
- Diverse Culinary Scene: Savor the flavours of Cambodia at various restaurants, offering a delightful dining experience.
- Variety of Accommodations: Choose from charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveller's needs.
Find great hotels in Phnom Penh
Discover a variety of accommodation options in Phnom Penh, from charming guesthouses to upscale hotels, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly environment or a rejuvenating spa-themed vacation, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind. Explore popular establishments like Penh House Hotel and read reviews on the best hotels in Cambodia to ensure a delightful stay in this vibrant city.
- NagaWorld Hotel & Entertainment Complex: This 5-star resort combines luxury with an entertainment hub, making it ideal for those seeking a lavish getaway. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, NagaWorld offers a comprehensive spa experience featuring couplesโ treatment rooms and a variety of facial treatments. Guests can enjoy poolside relaxation with full service, including hot tubs and daily spa access. Its opulent design and business amenities cater to both leisure and corporate travellers, ensuring a memorable and indulgent stay.
- Plantation Urban Resort & Spa: Boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is a haven for families and those wanting a tranquil escape. The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa features child-friendly amenities, including onsite babysitting and highchairs, making it an excellent choice for families. The spa offers a range of treatments, including manicures and body treatments, while the outdoor pool provides sun loungers and umbrellas for relaxation. The lush surroundings and serene atmosphere create a peaceful urban retreat.
- SUN & MOON, Urban Hotel: This stylish 4-star hotel, rated 9.0 out of 10, caters to business travellers and spa enthusiasts alike. SUN & MOON provides a full-service spa with a steam room and various body treatments, ensuring relaxation after a busy day. The outdoor pool offers a refreshing escape, while the hotel's modern design and business facilities cater to the needs of professional guests. Its central location allows easy access to Phnom Penh's attractions, making it a practical choice for both work and leisure.
Where to stay in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, offers an enriching travel experience perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Explore its charming neighbourhoods, where friendly locals embody the warm spirit of Cambodian hospitality. Discover top attractions that blend history and modernity, and indulge in romantic getaways amidst stunning landscapes. Nearby regions provide a diverse atmosphere, from budget-friendly options to luxurious escapes, ensuring an unforgettable holiday in this captivating city.
- Phnom Penh City Centre: The vibrant heart of Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh City Centre is a bustling neighbourhood teeming with life and culture. Its geographic location makes it easily accessible, attracting visitors year-round, especially during the peak months of December to February. Here, families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a plethora of activities, from exploring lively public markets to indulging in shopping at modern centres. The area boasts remarkable landmarks such as the picturesque esplanade and stunning temples, offering a blend of historical intrigue and contemporary charm.
- Boeung Keng Kang: Known for its picturesque surroundings and lively atmosphere, Boeung Keng Kang is another attractive neighbourhood in Phnom Penh. This area sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, particularly peaking in the cooler months. Boeung Keng Kang is perfect for family outings, outdoor adventures, and romantic escapades, featuring a variety of public markets and educational institutions. Its proximity to the beach and tourist precinct enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.
- Chamkar Mon: This dynamic district offers a unique blend of urban living and cultural experiences. With consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, Chamkar Mon peaks in popularity from December to February. It's an excellent destination for families and outdoor lovers, with plenty of markets and shopping centres to explore. The district is home to notable landmarks such as the tourist precinct and esplanade, alongside tranquil temples, providing an enriching experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle.
Things to do in Phnom Penh
Shopping
Explore the bustling Central Market for unique handicrafts and local delicacies. If you're up for a drive, Aeon Mall offers a more modern shopping experience with international brands and dining options. Don't miss the Russian Market for authentic souvenirs and vibrant local culture.
Recreation
The Yoga Studio in Phnom Penh offers a tranquil environment for yoga and meditation classes, allowing guests to rejuvenate both body and mind. Nearby, the Lotus Wellness Centre provides soothing massages and holistic therapies, enhancing relaxation and well-being in a serene setting.
Adventure
Explore the thrilling waters of the Tonle Sap River with a kayak tour, where you can paddle through serene landscapes and vibrant floating villages. Alternatively, cycle through the countryside to discover hidden temples and local markets, immersing yourself in the rich culture of Cambodia.
Nightlife
Phnom Penh's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring vibrant bars like The Kingdom Breweries for craft beer enthusiasts and the lively Bassac Lane, known for its eclectic mix of pubs and eateries. For a more relaxed vibe, enjoy cocktails at the chic Java Cafรฉ, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Phnom Penh
To save money on your visit to Phnom Penh, consider travelling during the off-peak months of April and July to August for lower accommodation rates. Enjoy free attractions like the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom. For transport, opt for affordable tuk-tuks or bicycle rentals. Saturday is the least expensive day to stay, while Wednesday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider bundling your accommodation with flights and activities for extra savings. Look for eco-certified options for a sustainable stay.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Phnom Penh are April and July to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and November to December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Phnom Penh is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Phnom Penh is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Phnom Penh with your flights and activities by arranging an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is an excellent destination for family and outdoor-themed holidays, offering a rich blend of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore various temples, monuments, and vibrant tourist precincts that showcase the city's heritage. Doun Penh is a must-visit area with plenty of attractions suitable for families and those seeking an outdoor adventure, ensuring a memorable stay in Cambodia's capital.
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: This poignant museum, housed in a former school, serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's tragic history during the Khmer Rouge regime. Visitors can explore the preserved cells and exhibitions that tell the harrowing stories of those who suffered, offering a deeply reflective experience.
- Riverside: A vibrant area along the banks of the Mekong River, Riverside is ideal for leisurely strolls, with numerous cafรฉs and shops. Families can enjoy outdoor activities while taking in the scenic views and lively atmosphere, especially during sunset.
- Royal Palace: An architectural gem, the Royal Palace showcases stunning Khmer design and rich history. Visitors can admire the intricate details and lush gardens, immersing themselves in Cambodiaโs royal heritage and cultural significance.
Best time to go to Phnom Penh
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Phnom Penh
Flying into Phnom Penh can be done via two major airports. Techo International Airport (KTI) is situated 23km away from the city, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star SUN & MOON and the 4-star Hotel De L'Homme, both offering limited airport shuttle services. Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is closer, at 10km from the city centre, with luxurious options like the Palace Gate Hotel & Resort and Mane La Rรฉsidence, both providing easy access to the airport. Raffles Hotel Le Royal, located 8km from PNH, also offers comprehensive transport services for its guests. Each hotel ensures convenient transfers to enhance your travel experience.