The Best Nightclubs in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

As one of the capital’s longest-running clubs, Pontoon is where most of the action is happening post-1am. Boasting a spacious main room, with a central island bar, large dancefloor, seating and private booths, the tunes are pumping here in the form of hip-hop, r ‘n’ b and house music. International DJs and acts are often flown in to entertain the crowds. A smaller adjacent room, Pontoon Pulse, plays electronic and more mellow house tunes. While Pontoon harbours a bit of a reputation in town – yes, many of those girls sitting at the bar are for hire – the venue remains the go-to spot for after-hours debauchery.

Another stalwart on the nightclub scene, gay-friendly Heart of Darkness has been about since 1993, attracting a pretty healthy Khmer crowd every day of the week. The two-storey club comes complete with an elaborate Angkor theme, dancefloor and podiums, pool tables, pumping tunes and drinks specials. Entry is free, with international acts occasionally flown in for special occasions.

Run by the brains behind the Mad Monkey operation, Club Love is another hive of activity until the early hours. Open every night on the bustling backpacker stretch of Street 278, guest DJs keep the tunes flowing and rounds of free shots keep the dancing going. Cheap drink deals run throughout the night, with happy hour running from 11pm to midnight.

As one of the capital’s largest clubs, since opening its doors a couple of years ago, Epic aims to take Phnom Penh’s nightlife to the next level. Attracting Cambodia’s high-rollers and A-list celebs, the club features a huge dancefloor, plenty of private VIP rooms, a top-class sound system, 3D mapping, exclusive cocktails and quality table service. A great way to see through the night.

Located on upmarket Koh Pich, or Diamond Island, DIB is one of the capital’s latest late night offerings. Comprised of a large outdoor swimming pool, lounging areas, a bar and restaurant, all set under a thatched awning, DIB often hosts pool parties, DJs and other events. While the party tends to wind up at around 10pm at weekends, there are plenty of places to head afterwards. On the first Friday of each month, DIB puts on its Friday Party, offering music, snacks and drinks around the pool until about 1am.

Another relative newcomer to the scene, Valentino’s is a lively gay nightspot – although it welcomes any open-minded individuals – that hosts live stage shows, from Monday to Saturday when the clock strikes midnight. Combining cheap drinks with music from house and guest DJs, the dancefloor is rocking until dawn – or 5am, at least. As well as a nightclub, the venue houses a bistro, where food is served from the outdoor terrace throughout the day and night.

Another stalwart, Riverhouse has been providing Phnom Penh with night-time entertainment for more than 15 years. Set on the riverside, the downstairs bistro serves up relaxed tunes, food and drinks. While the upstairs lounge boasts a dancefloor and top tunes. Catering to the affluent young Khmer crowd, its riverside location also draws in the tourists, with guest DJs and entertainers regularly taking to the stage.