A fascinating South East Asian nation, Cambodia is an increasingly popular destination for those seeking to combine beautiful beach and nature escapes with lively trips to forward-thinking cities and heritage hotspots. The country’s turbulent 20th-century history has left its mark, but Cambodia’s people’s resilient spirit and warm hospitality has led to a boom in the tourist industry, with a burgeoning crop of fabulous hotels and guesthouses opening in recent years. Delve into our list of recommendations to find the best places to stay in Cambodia, perfect for memorable trips as a couple or with family and friends.
Some of our Cambodia Collections:
Vibrant Phnom Penh is the country’s capital, home to the Royal Palace, some fantastic museums, boutiques, galleries and eateries. One for culture aficionados as well as those dreaming of hip bars and restaurants, we think a stop in Phnom Penh is a must on any visitor’s itinerary. Cambodia’s most famous attraction, however, is the iconic Angkor Wat and surrounding temple complex, close to the buzzy city of Siem Reap. Expect a curious combination of backpacker haunts and gorgeous heritage landmarks in this area — as well as a plethora of terrific hotels.
Head towards the coast at Sihanoukville for access to the stunning island of Koh Rong, or venture closer to the Vietnamese border to discover Kep, which is known for its National Park and excellent seafood. Back inland, spot rare wildlife in Koh Kong Province’s Botum Sakor National Park, hike up jungle trails, or kayak along scenic rivers. Cambodia is a wonderful country, with off-the-beaten-track experiences aplenty for those who take the time to look. Book a room at one of the best places to stay in Cambodia to kick start your adventure!
The Best Places to Stay in Cambodia
For Boutique Chic
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Maison Polanka in Siem Reap is a gorgeous little hotel with just seven rooms, a cottage and a four-bedroom villa. Book the larger Maison for group or family trips, and enjoy leafy gardens, fabulous cuisine and some seriously cool retro-inspired interiors. For design buffs.
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The Bale offers eighteen luxury suites, a gorgeous river-facing pool and terrific restaurant, set on the banks of the mighty Mekong close to Phnom Penh. Unwind in a serene oasis of modern Asian design — book one of the Riverfront Suites for spellbinding views.
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Plantation Urban Resort & Spa promises a fabulous fusion of old and new in Phnom Penh, with elegant rooms and suites featuring big beds topped with crisp white linens and accents of burnt orange. Private balconies overlook the idyllic palm-fringed swimming pool. Very romantic.
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Sala Lodges is made up of just 11 stilted Khmer houses, set in rural surroundings close to Siem Reap. Individually sourced and placed within the gardens by the hotel's Swiss owners, the houses offer a beautiful insight into traditional Cambodian heritage. Stylishly simple and luxurious, perfect for romantic escapes.
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Knai Bang Chatt is a gorgeous boutique hotel in Kep for fans of intimate indulgence. Sleek interiors channel elements of minimalism, with well-chosen objets d'art and lovely views. The infinity pool and delicious cuisine complete the picture. A luxurious honeymoon favourite.
For Heritage Glamour
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Raffles Hotel Le Royal first opened in 1929, and has become a glamorous Phnom Penh icon. Recent refurbishment has yielded sophisticated, elegant interiors with airy suites, chic bars and gourmet cuisine. A sensational luxury hotel.
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FCC Angkor is set in a gorgeous building, once an imposing French Governor's residence. Restored rooms and suites have a more tropical modernist feel, with large windows, big beds topped with burnt orange bedspreads, and private terraces. The Mansion Restaurant is a foodie favourite. For well-heeled travellers.
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Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has beautiful French Art Deco interiors and very sophisticated rooms and suites, which boast private balconies, rolltop baths and big beds topped with crisp white linens. The lovely pool, tennis courts and 15 acres of landscaped gardens make this a real standout.
For Families or Groups
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Shinta Mani Angkor has a hip, modern feel, perfect for groups of friends looking to congregate around the swimming pool before kicking back in slick rooms designed by the acclaimed Bill Bensley. Villas with private plunge pools are great for families or groups.
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The Secret Garden Koh Rong is a family friendly spot on Koh Rong with just 16 rooms overlooking a pristine beach. Expect white-on-white, Scandi-inspired interiors and flexible options for those travelling with little ones. The laid-back vibe and the proximity to everything from fishing to waterfall hikes add to the appeal.
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Samanea Beach Resort near Kep, is made up of 12 modern ocean-facing villas with light, airy interiors and quirky design features. Families will appreciate the beachfront setting, the lush gardens and the easy access to stacks of activities. Lovely.
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The Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa's enormous Family Suites are ideal for trips with kids of all ages. Gather in the saltwater swimming pool, head off to the sumptuous spa whilst the little ones stay with a babysitter, or feast at Chi Restaurant. An indulgent, family-friendly choice with plenty of scope for romance.
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La Rose Suites is a luxurious little city hotel with antique wooden four-posters in tranquil bedrooms. Two-bedroom apartments with kitchens are great for families staying in Phnom Penh. A saltwater pool, soothing spa and wonderful restaurant complete the picture. Superb.
For an Indulgent Island Hideaway
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Song Saa Private Island boasts 27 indulgent stilted villas with glass floors revealing the ocean waters below. Reputedly home to the best spa in Cambodia, this is a gorgeous private island escape with strong eco credentials. A hugely romantic hideaway.
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Royal Sands offers superb all-villa accommodation set on a 400-metre stretch of pristine beach. Cool and contemporary multi-room villas have private plunge pools, ocean views and chic white-on-white interiors. Enjoy the spa, gym and delicious fresh cuisine. A very special stay for couples, friends or families.
For a Nature-Focused Escape
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Cardamom Tented Camp is a fantastic collection of nine tented rooms in the Botum Sakor National Park. Join forest rangers on patrol, kayak along the river or enjoy fun cooking classes in a beautiful setting. Adventurers will adore the chance to spot rare wildlife in a remote region, in connection with a property focused on conservation and sustainability. A gem for nature lovers.
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The Beige offers indulgent tented suites in a gorgeous riverside setting, just north of Siem Reap. The yoga platform, infinity pool and spa are perfect for unwinding before tucking in to organic cuisine. A charming romantic hideaway.
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Canvas & Orchids Retreat offers 12 tented suites set on the Tatai River in Koh Kong Province. Perfect for adventurous couples or families, the camp promises excellent kayaking and hiking excursions, as well as opportunities to spot some of the area's 530+ species of rare birds. A remote yet indulgent hideaway.
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Shinta Mani Wild is a magical oasis for lovers of luxury and off-the-beaten-track experiences. Hidden in the Cardamom Mountains of Sihanouk Province, this whimsical haven offers 15 fabulous tented suites, an exceptional bar and myriad activities, all fuelled by the fantastic owners' creative spirit and admirable focus on conservation. Exquisite.
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Phum Baitang combines luxury design with a 'green village' concept, and comprises 45 wooden villas, 25 of which have stunning private plunge pools. Slightly out of Siem Reap's bustling tourist area, Phum Baitang offers a totally immersive experience for fans of tranquility.
FOR Absolute LUXURY
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Amansara is a design lover's dream, with minimalist 1960s-inspired decor and the exceptional service for which the Aman group has gained international acclaim. Some of the suites have private pools, others boast quiet courtyards. The indulgent spa and Khmer restaurant are excellent — as are the tailored experiences of the area. A delight.
For Great Value
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Tamu Koh Rong is an affordable little beach hotel with idyllic thatched and tented villas set on the white sands of Koh Rong. Pick this place for the intimate boutique feel and the tranquil atmosphere — perfect for a couples' escape or beach-focused honeymoon.
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The Blue Lime Hotel is a modern, airy, 23 room hotel in a quiet alley behind the National Gallery and near the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. The tropical garden and luxurious looking salt-water pool behind the hotel are a lovely bonus. Some of the more expensive rooms have their own private plunge pools too.
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La Villa is a charming 1930s villa in Battambang with just seven guestrooms, each featuring tiled floors, four-poster beds and wooden antiques. The bright conservatory is now a cosy dining room, and the pool a perfect place for a soak after a day of exploring historic Battambang. Intimate, affordable and romantic.
FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA
- If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or villa we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.
Travel Information
- Cambodia has two large international airports: Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport. Sihanoukville International Airport is a smaller hub, and useful for coastal trips. Many journeys from Europe or the US require a stop in Dubai, or a larger Asian hub. Continue to your destination by bus or taxi from the airport in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, or speak to your hotel to arrange an airport pick up in advance.
- Alternatively — and if you're comfortable driving in Asia — contact our partner Rentalcars to hire a car.
- Visit between November and March for the dry season, when the weather is also cooler. Temperatures heat up between March and May, when you can expect sticky 33–35°C days, whilst the monsoon rains are expected in June and October. Bring umbrellas and expect to shelter in cafes if travelling at those times!
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