Staying by the riverside in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh's riverside puts you close to the Royal Palace, National Museum and evening promenade. Here's what to expect from hotels in the area and who it suits.
In this guide
The riverside area along Sisowath Quay is Phnom Penh's classic base for first-time visitors. You can walk to the Royal Palace, the National Museum and Wat Phnom, and in the evening the promenade fills with families, exercise groups and food sellers.
Where it is
The riverside runs along the Tonle Sap river, from near Wat Phnom in the north to the Royal Palace area in the south. The streets behind it, in the Daun Penh district, are full of guesthouses, restaurants and shops.
What it's like
- Busy and central: easy access to the main sights.
- Lively evenings: the promenade is busy at sunset.
- Restaurants and bars: from street food to rooftop bars.
- Markets nearby: Central Market is a short ride away.
Accommodation
- River-view hotels with balconies or rooftop pools.
- Boutique hotels in restored colonial buildings.
- Budget guesthouses on the streets behind the river.
- International hotels near the palace and Chaktomuk area.
Who it suits
- First-time visitors on a short stay.
- Travellers who like to walk to sights.
- People who enjoy an active evening atmosphere.
Downsides
- Some streets are touristy, with persistent touts.
- Noise from bars and traffic in some blocks.
- Fewer leafy, quiet streets than BKK1.
Safety
The riverside is generally safe, but bag snatching happens. Keep phones away from the roadside and use a cross-body bag.
Tips
- Ask for a room away from the street if you're a light sleeper.
- River-view rooms are worth it for sunsets.
- Walk the promenade in the early morning or evening when it's cooler.
Frequently asked questions
Can I walk to the main sights?
Yes. The Royal Palace, National Museum and Wat Phnom are all within walking distance of most riverside hotels, though the heat makes tuk-tuks tempting in the afternoon.
Is the riverside good for families?
Yes, especially hotels with pools. The promenade is lively and fun in the evening, with space for children to run around.
When is the riverside busiest?
In the late afternoon and evening, and especially at weekends and during festivals such as the Water Festival, when it becomes very crowded.