From luxe boltholes with views of the Mekong River and hideaways that have hosted visiting celebrities, to retreats with the royal seal of approval, we deep dive into Phnom Penh’s most decadent stays.
From Khmer-era architecture to local cuisine, the capital of Cambodia has it all. Though long viewed as a wallet-friendly destination for travellers on a budget, you’ll also find a growing array of high-end hotels, shops and spas in the city that cater to those who appreciate the finer things in life. So, whether you’re in town to celebrate a special occasion or simply want to splurge on fancy digs, the city has a luxury stay to suit you. Here are some of the best, bookable on Culture Trip.
Rosewood Phnom Penh
Hotel, Luxury, Chain Hotel
After opening its doors in 2018, this luxury bolthole remains one of the top high-end stays in the city. Stylish rooms and suites blend opulent contemporary design with local touches; the best have views of the Mekong River below. There’s also an on-site art gallery, indoor lap pool, spa and rooftop bar – the latter is a great spot for sipping cocktails at sunset.
Baitong Hotel and Resort
Hotel
This sleek and chic urban resort is an oasis in the middle of Phnom Penh. Facilities include an eye-catching, glass-bottomed pool, ringed by lush plants in the centre of the resort, as well as a restaurant that specialises in Thai food and a rooftop bar that offers sweeping skyline views. Guest rooms are spacious and blend an industrial-chic aesthetic with warm wooden furniture. Some have a private terrace or plunge pool.
Raffles Le Royal
Hotel
Founded in 1929, Raffles Le Royal has hosted many famous guests over the last century, including English actor Charlie Chaplin and French novelist André Malraux. The hotel today is set in a colonial-era bungalow, with high-ceilinged rooms that blend traditional Khmer elements with modern design. There’s also an on-site spa, a large swimming pool and the Elephant Bar, where you can sample the hotel’s signature Femme Fatale cocktail – concocted for Jackie Kennedy during her visit to Cambodia in 1967.
Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
Hotel
This centrally located hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the city. Take your pick from 201 rooms and suites, all featuring plush beds, polished hardwood floors and plenty of wooden furnishings for a modern-meets-rustic vibe. Restaurants focused on different cuisines include Hachi for Japanese delicacies and Do Forni, where you can indulge in all the Italian pizzas and pastas you can handle.
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Hotel Cambodiana
Hotel
Situated along the banks of the Mekong River, the historic Hotel Cambodiana offers a tranquil stay in the heart of the city. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with some overlooking the riverside. Wellness facilities include a spa, swimming pool, steam room and sauna, plus tennis courts. Hard work done and dusted, stop by the hotel’s L’Amboise restaurant to treat yourself to French classics, such as white-wine mussels and steak frites.
La Rose Suites
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Stylish, boutique hotel La Rose Suites is located on a quiet street in the bustling Cambodian capital. The 68 expansive rooms feature four-poster beds, locally designed furnishings and large bathrooms with rainfall showers. Guests can take a dip in the saltwater swimming pool, or relax in the lush tropical garden. The hotel also offers cooking classes – including a tour of the local market – for those who want to learn how to whip up a Khmer feast.
Pavilion
Boutique Hotel, Hotel
Aside from its luxury digs, this hotel has a royal connection: it was reportedly once the private retreat of Sisowath Kossamak – queen consort of Cambodia, married to King Norodom Suramarit from 1955 until his death in 1960. The sprawling property includes two large swimming pools surrounded by plenty of greenery, as well as private plunge pools, a gym and spa. Pavilion also provides free bikes if you want to explore the surrounding area – including cultural attractions such as the Royal Palace and Royal Pagoda – on wheels.
Patio Hotel and Urban Resort
Hotel
Conveniently positioned near tourist attractions such as the Independence Monument, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, Patio is a great base for your sightseeing adventures. The hotel’s decor follows a rustic-tropical theme, with plants and natural furnishings dominating the public spaces. Rooms are simply styled, while the rooftop pool offers sprawling views of the city. The hotel also organises a range of day tours of all the main sites for guests.