Where to stay for first time comers to Phnom Penh, Cambodia Travel

Where to stay for first time comers to Phnom Penh

It is crucial for first time comers to Phnom Penh to decide where to stay for a hassle-free vacation in this charming capital city of Cambodia. Phnom Penh, which is widely considered as the nation’s political, commercial and cultural center, is divided into various areas, each offering a great range of dining, shopping, sightseeing and nightlife options. Let’s explore Phnom Penh with: Indochina tours Cambodia

In spite of its bleak history, over the few years, Phnom Penh has undergone massive development, where you can find interesting museums, royal buildings and jaw-dropping temples set within close proximity to stylish shopping malls, lively bars and restaurants. To accommodate travelers all over the world, hotels in Phnom Penh range from simple and reasonable priced guesthouses for budget-conscious tourists to luxury avenues for the affluent. To decide where to book your hotel in Phnom Penh, let’s see the list of the city’s most popular districts together with the pros and cons of each locale.

Should I book my hotel in Riverside?

Riverside area- source: internet

Housing rows of fashion boutiques, hotels, restaurants, bars and cafés that cater to only about any budget levels, Riverside or Sisowath Quay is the busiest district of Phnom Penh. Located along the intersection of the Mekong Rivers and Tonle Sap, this boulevard attracts a large number of travelers who are looking to explore famous landmarks such as the National Museum, Wat Ounalom Pagoda, Royal Palace, and traditional markets such as Phsar Kandal and Phsar Chas. In the evening, where locals and travelers can savor authentic Khmer, Asian and Western cuisine or enjoy a relaxing walk along the riverfront, it gets fairly packed.

National Museum- source: internet

Who is it for:

Those who are looking for nightlife
Those who want to experience the unique local culture
Those who want to be in the center of the action

What is good:

A wide range of accommodation options
Notable landmarks such as National Museum and Royal Palace
Shops and restaurants cater to various price ranges

What is not really good:

Expect touts and beggars as it is the most tourist-centric part of the city

Should I book my hotel in City Center?

Phnom Penh at night – source: internet

The northern part of Phnom Penh is encompassed by the city center. There is a wide range of accommodation available together with many tourist sites, such as the French colonial buildings, Golden Sorya Mall, Wat Phnom Pagoda, Freedom Park and Central Market (Psar Thmey) as well as upmarket restaurants and five-star hotels. Because of the relatively small size of Phnom Penh, from anywhere in the city center, you can quite easily get to the majority of places within the city or the surrounding area. Travel to Cambodia

Central Market -source: internet

Who is it for:

Those who are looking to shop for great bargains
People who want to enjoy a wide range of dining options
People who want to experience the unique local culture

What is good:

Battambang taxi and bus station is right next to the Central Market
Restaurants and bars cater to all kinds of travelers
Traditional markets offer awesome local cuisine and inexpensive goods
The availability of a wide range of accommodation

What is not really good:

Terrible traffic jam during peak hours

Should I book my hotel in Independence Monument?

Independence Monument – source: internet

Independence Monument in the Southern Phnom Penh is set within a roundabout at the intersection of the Norodom Boulevards and Sihanouk. Since it is home to UN and NGO offices, foreign embassies, as well as international universities and schools, it is also known as the expat neighborhood of the city. Set within the walking distance to Independence Monument is the Street 51 – a vibrant hub, where you are able to find a lot of stylish restaurants, bars, pubs, boutiques, café and spas. A 10-minute taxi ride away from the Independence Monument is Tuol Sleng 21 Prison, a popular tourist attraction and historical museum that details the Khmer Rouge regime’s genocidal crimes. Surrounding Independence Monument are accommodation options including serviced apartments, villas and boutique hotels.

Who is it for: