Staying in BKK1: Phnom Penh's leafy central district
BKK1 is a leafy, central Phnom Penh district full of cafes, restaurants, boutique hotels and serviced apartments. Here's what it's like and who it suits.
In this guide
Boeung Keng Kang 1, usually shortened to BKK1, is one of Phnom Penh's most popular areas for visitors and expats. Tree-lined streets, embassies, cafes, international restaurants and a wide choice of accommodation make it a comfortable base, especially for longer stays.
Where it is
BKK1 lies south of the Independence Monument and west of the Royal Palace area. It's roughly bordered by Norodom Boulevard, Mao Tse Tung Boulevard, Monivong Boulevard and Sihanouk Boulevard. The riverside and palace are a short tuk-tuk or app ride away.
What it's like
- Leafy and residential, with villas, apartment buildings and small shops.
- Food and drink: cafes, bakeries, international restaurants, wine bars and Khmer eateries.
- Services: gyms, spas, supermarkets, pharmacies and clinics.
- Atmosphere: busy during the day, with lively bars and restaurants in the evening, but generally calmer than the riverside.
Accommodation
- Boutique hotels with pools and design touches.
- Serviced apartments for longer stays.
- Mid-range hotels and guesthouses.
- A few upscale properties on the edges.
Who it suits
- Travellers who want comfort and good food.
- Long-stay visitors and remote workers.
- Families who want hotels with pools.
- Business travellers, as several embassies and offices are nearby.
Downsides
- Prices are higher than in Tuol Tom Poung or the backstreets of the riverside.
- Traffic can be heavy at peak times.
- Construction in some streets can be noisy.
Getting around
Tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps are easy to find. Some parts are walkable, but pavements are often uneven or blocked.
Tips
- Choose a hotel on a side street for quieter nights.
- Check for construction near your hotel in recent reviews.
- Explore nearby streets for local breakfast stalls; BKK1 isn't only expat cafes.
Frequently asked questions
Is BKK1 walkable?
Parts of it are, especially early in the morning and in the evening. Pavements are often uneven or blocked, so many people use tuk-tuks or apps for longer distances.
Is it good for long stays?
Yes. It has supermarkets, gyms, clinics and serviced apartments, making it popular with expats and long-term visitors.
Is BKK1 noisy?
Main roads can be busy and some streets have bars. Choose a hotel on a quiet side street if you're a light sleeper.