Where to Stay

Accommodation in Phnom Penh

Chantrea personally recommends each of these options. From budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels β€” all are safe, well-located, and suitable for new arrivals.

Chantrea
A Note from Chantrea

Choosing Your First Place to Stay

"When you first arrive in Phnom Penh, I always recommend staying somewhere central β€” near the riverside or BKK1 area. It's easy to walk to cafes, markets, and restaurants while you're getting your bearings. Once you've been here a few weeks and know which neighbourhood you like, then you can look for a longer-term apartment."

Chantrea meets every new arrival at the airport and takes them directly to their accommodation. She'll have already given you a full briefing on WhatsApp before you land, so there are no surprises.

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Accommodation Options

Recommended for New Teachers

All options are in safe, well-connected areas of Phnom Penh. Prices are approximate and in USD.

πŸ’š Budget Options β€” $15–30/night

Budget accommodation area
Budget

Guesthouses β€” BKK1 / Riverside Area

Phnom Penh has dozens of clean, safe, and friendly guesthouses in the BKK1 and riverside neighbourhoods. Most include WiFi, air-conditioning, and a simple breakfast.

~$15–25/night Β· Walking distance to cafΓ©s, markets, and transport

Local Phnom Penh area
Budget

Serviced Rooms β€” Long-Stay Weekly Rate

Many budget hotels offer weekly rates that work out cheaper than nightly. Ideal for your first 2–4 weeks while you get oriented and find longer-term accommodation.

~$200–350/week Β· Great for the first month

Phnom Penh riverfront
Budget

Shared Apartments β€” Expat Community

Cambodia Ready graduates sometimes have spare rooms. Chantrea can connect you with the teacher community β€” you might find a housemate before you even land.

~$250–400/month Β· Ask Chantrea for connections

🟑 Mid-Range Options β€” $30–70/night

Riverside hotel area
Mid-Range

Riverside Boutique Hotels

Comfortable rooms with a view of the Tonle Sap or Mekong River. Most include pool access, reliable WiFi, and are a short walk from Sisowath Quay and key schools.

~$35–55/night Β· Perfect for your first few weeks

Phnom Penh accommodation area
Mid-Range

Serviced Apartments β€” BKK1

BKK1 is Phnom Penh's most popular expat neighbourhood. Clean serviced apartments with kitchenettes are plentiful and great for stays of 1–3 months.

~$400–700/month Β· The go-to neighbourhood for teachers

Phnom Penh local area
Mid-Range

Hotel + Serviced Studio β€” Toul Tom Poung

Russian Market area β€” vibrant, affordable, and packed with Western cafΓ©s and restaurants. Very popular with long-term teachers and expats.

~$350–600/month Β· Great food scene and local market

πŸ”΅ Comfort Options β€” $70–150/night

Luxury rooftop pool hotel
Comfort

4-Star Hotels β€” Pool & Gym

For teachers who want a more comfortable base while they settle in. Rooftop pools, gym, concierge, and reliable air conditioning. Perfect for the first 1–2 weeks of arrival.

~$70–130/night Β· Worth it for the first week or two

Riverside luxury area
Comfort

Luxury Apartments β€” Long Stay

If budget allows, Phnom Penh has some genuinely excellent apartment complexes with pools, gyms, and full building security. Great for teachers planning a longer stay.

~$700–1,200/month Β· For a truly comfortable experience

Riverside Phnom Penh
Comfort

Riverside Luxury Suites

Some of Phnom Penh's best hotels sit directly on the riverside. If you want to treat yourself to an unforgettable first week in Cambodia, these are the options.

~$100–150/night Β· Spectacular sunrise views

Neighbourhoods

Key Areas for Teachers in Phnom Penh

πŸ™οΈ

BKK1 (Boeung Keng Kang 1)

Phnom Penh's most popular expat neighbourhood. Lined with Western cafΓ©s, restaurants, and supermarkets. Walking distance to many international schools. Most teachers end up here.

🌊

Riverside / Daun Penh

Central Phnom Penh, along the Sisowath Quay. Great for sightseeing, cafΓ©s, and the social scene. Slightly more touristy but very convenient for your first few weeks.

πŸ›Ί

Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market)

Popular with long-term expats for its authenticity and great food scene. The Russian Market is a landmark. Slightly more local feel than BKK1, with cheaper rents.

πŸ—ΊοΈ Not Sure Which Area to Choose?

Message Chantrea β€” she'll ask about your school placement and budget, then recommend the perfect neighbourhood for you.

Ask Chantrea

Need Help Booking Accommodation?

Chantrea can advise on the best options for your budget, timeline, and school location.