Where to stay in Phnom Penh: neighbourhoods compared
Riverside, BKK1, Tuol Tom Poung, Toul Kork or Koh Pich? Here's how Phnom Penh's main neighbourhoods compare for first-time visitors, families and long stays.
In this guide
Where you stay in Phnom Penh shapes your trip. The city is spread out, traffic can be slow, and each neighbourhood has a different character. Here's a quick comparison of the main areas visitors choose.
At a glance
| Area | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside (Daun Penh) | First-time visitors | Walk to the Royal Palace, museum and river | Busier, some areas touristy |
| BKK1 | Cafes, restaurants, longer stays | Leafy, central, wide choice | Pricier, traffic at peak hours |
| Tuol Tom Poung | Budget travellers, markets | Russian Market, local feel, good food | Further from riverside sights |
| Toul Kork | Long stays, local life | Quieter residential feel | Fewer sights, need transport |
| Koh Pich | Modern hotels, events | Newer buildings, open spaces | Feels separate from the old city |
Riverside and Daun Penh
The area along Sisowath Quay and the streets behind it puts you close to the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom and the riverside promenade. Hotels range from budget guesthouses to boutique and international hotels. It's the easiest base for a short first visit.
BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)
South of the Independence Monument, BKK1 is a leafy district with embassies, cafes, restaurants, bars and boutique hotels. It's popular with expats and longer-stay visitors and is a short ride to the palace and riverside.
Tuol Tom Poung
Around the Russian Market, this area has a mix of local life, market stalls, cafes and good-value guesthouses. It's a good choice for budget travellers and anyone who wants a more local feel.
Toul Kork
North-west of the centre, Toul Kork is a residential district with local restaurants and some serviced apartments. It suits long stays and people with business in the area, but you'll need transport to reach the main sights.
Koh Pich (Diamond Island)
A newer development on an island in the Bassac river, with modern hotels, apartments and an exhibition centre. It feels very different from the older parts of the city.
Tips for choosing
- Short stay: riverside or BKK1.
- Budget: Tuol Tom Poung or streets behind the riverside.
- Families: hotels with pools in BKK1 or the riverside.
- Nightlife: riverside and parts of BKK1.
- Quiet: side streets of BKK1 or Toul Kork.
Before you book
- Check whether the hotel is on a busy road or near a bar or karaoke venue.
- Look for recent reviews mentioning noise, cleanliness and Wi-Fi.
- Ask about airport transfers, as Techo International Airport is outside the city centre.