Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Daun Penh (Old Market Area)
Provides affordable accommodation and food options close to cultural sites and markets.
See full Phnom Penh neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Phnom Penh
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Daun Penh (Old Market Area)
The historic heart of the city, bustling with markets, colonial architecture, and a mix of local life and tourist activity.
Our top picks in Daun Penh (Old Market Area)
Chamkarmon (Russian Market Area)
A more local neighborhood centered around the bustling Russian Market, offering a glimpse into daily life with plenty of food stalls and shops.
Our top picks in Chamkarmon (Russian Market Area)
Riverside
Lively promenade along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, dotted with restaurants, bars, and hotels.
Our top picks in Riverside
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Daun Penh (Old Market Area) | Budget | The historic heart of the city, bustling with markets, colonial architecture, and a mix of local life and tourist activity. | first-timersculture |
Chamkarmon (Russian Market Area) | Budget | A more local neighborhood centered around the bustling Russian Market, offering a glimpse into daily life with plenty of food stalls and shops. | budgetfoodies |
Riverside | Mid-range | Lively promenade along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, dotted with restaurants, bars, and hotels. | first-timerscouples |
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1) | Luxury | Trendy and cosmopolitan area known for its cafes, international restaurants, and expatriate community. | digital nomadsfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Phnom Penh
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Phnom Penh
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Phnom Penh. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Phnom Penh
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Phnom Penh
Daun Penh (Old Market Area)
BudgetThe historic heart of the city, bustling with markets, colonial architecture, and a mix of local life and tourist activity.
- +Close proximity to major historical sites
- +Authentic local market experiences
- +Good value for money accommodation and food
- -Can be chaotic and noisy
- -Street conditions can be uneven
Chamkarmon (Russian Market Area)
BudgetA more local neighborhood centered around the bustling Russian Market, offering a glimpse into daily life with plenty of food stalls and shops.
- +Great for authentic street food
- +Vibrant local market experience
- +More affordable than BKK1
- -Can be noisy and less polished
- -Further from major historical sites
Riverside
Mid-rangeLively promenade along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, dotted with restaurants, bars, and hotels.
- +Scenic river views
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Easy access to major attractions
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Traffic congestion is common
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
LuxuryTrendy and cosmopolitan area known for its cafes, international restaurants, and expatriate community.
- +Excellent food and coffee scene
- +Good infrastructure for expats and digital nomads
- +Relatively clean and well-maintained streets
- -Can be more expensive than other areas
- -Less traditional Cambodian feel
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 30/day
Hidden Gems in Phnom Penh
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
FREEThis iconic Art Deco building is a bustling hub for locals, offering everything from fresh produce and souvenirs to clothing and jewelry. Its unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a fascinating place to explore.
Orussey Market
FREEA truly local experience, Orussey Market is a multi-story labyrinth where you can find an incredible array of goods, from fabrics and electronics to street food and household items. It's a great place to practice your bargaining skills and soak in authentic Cambodian daily life.
Friends International
This social enterprise restaurant offers delicious food in a beautiful garden setting, and more importantly, supports marginalized youth. Dining here directly contributes to training and employment for young Cambodians.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Phnom Penh
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Phnom Penh Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Phnom Penh on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Phnom Penh Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Phnom Penh with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Phnom Penh: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Phnom Penh's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Phnom Penh: Scenic Excursion
Escape Phnom Penh for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Phnom Penh Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Phnom Penh's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Phnom Penh
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