8 Hip Hotels in Phnom Penh

Previously an all-too-often underrated city destination, Phnom Penh has grown in popularity in recent years, and travellers can now choose from an increasingly varied selection of hip hotels. Many are restored residences, set along the leafy lanes which characterise Cambodia's capital, and will undoubtedly appeal to explorers eager to discover the city on foot or by bicycle. Largely built in the 20th Century, these characterful houses — many showcasing the minimalist design of the 1950s and '60s — are small and intimate, with white-washed walls, airy spaces and bold pops of colour. Kick back in atmospheric rooms and suites, sink into refreshing swimming pools or sip cocktails at the trendiest bars in the city. Our list of eight hip hotels in Phnom Penh awaits!

For Minimalist Modernism

• iRoHa Garden Hotel & Resort is made up of 25 minimalist rooms and suites. A restored white-painted 1960s villa, the hotel sits in verdant gardens just beyond the city centre. Pick this place for its tranquil setting, soothing spa and swimming pool, and its impressive design ethos. Art lovers will be fascinated by the collection of pieces by local artists.
• Plantation Urban Resort & Spa is larger, with 70 chic rooms and suites clustered around an Art Deco building. Big beds are topped with crisp white linens and touches of burnt orange fabric, whilst private balconies promise swimming pool and city views. An elegant, romantic choice with an appealing sense of pared-back simplicity.
• Rambutan Resort, in the popular BKK1 district, is a top spot for sociable travellers or groups of friends. A more affordable choice, this villa hotel has just 19 rooms in a 1960s property, with polished concrete floors, modern artwork and private terraces. The swimming pool is a natural gathering spot.

For Old-School Glamour

• The Amanjaya Pancam Hotel sits between the Mekong and the Tonle Sap Rivers. A glamorous, old-school charmer with warm polished wood, white and cream linens in rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and big pot plants. Head up to the rooftop bar to sip cocktails with expansive views of Sisowath Quay and the city. Larger suites have extra beds for little ones.
• The Pavilion is a gorgeous boutique gem with rooms set in four restored colonial-era villas. Set around two palm-fringed swimming pools, guest rooms have draped four-poster beds with patterned tiles and bright pops of colour. Just 100 metres from the Royal Palace, this is a hip boutique pad promising fabulous service and stacks of classic charm.

FOR Contemporary Cool

• Rosewood Phnom Penh has slick, minimalist interiors in 175 sophisticated rooms and suites on the upper floors of the swish Vattanac Capital Tower. Art aficionados will adore the onsite art gallery, whilst well-heeled travellers can kick off big nights out with live music at Sora, and round them off in the glamorous whisky lounge. Very indulgent.
• The Bale, just out of town and set on the banks of the Mekong, is a cool, contemporary pad with 18 luxury suites. A stand-out for fans of modern Asian design, the hotel's spacious suites feature clean lines, crisp edges and a muted colour palette. Soothing and very swish, with a huge pool and unparalled river views.

For Great Value

• The Blue Lime Hotel is a hip city bolthole with surprisingly affordable rooms. Just a short stroll from the Royal Palace and National Gallery, this little hotel has 23 guest rooms with wooden four-posters, and pink, blue and green textiles throughout. Cool off in the pool or tropical gardens on hot days in the city.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Phnom Penh.
• Alternatively, check out our list of 9 of the Best Beach Hotels in Cambodia.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

 

Written by Saskia Walker

posted Tuesday, 22nd August 2023