Best Budget Hotels in Phnom Penh (2025 Guide)
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital, was founded in 1372 and became the capital in 1865. Strategically located at the confluence of the Tonlé Sap, Mekong, and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh has rapidly modernised since the 1990s.
In 2024 alone, Cambodia welcomed over 6.7 million international tourists—ranking 6th out of 9 Southeast Asian destinations.
Despite some bureaucratic hiccups at its borders, Cambodia remains an affordable gem for travellers. So if saving money while travelling is on your mind, here are the 5 best budget hotels in Phnom Penh that I personally stayed in—and recommend.
What Is Considered a Budget Hotel in Phnom Penh?
When travelling abroad, what qualifies as “budget” varies from country to country. In Australia, for instance, a private hostel room in a city centre can cost upwards of A$100. Compare that to Cambodia, where a similar room could cost you under A$15.
For the sake of this guide, I consider any hotel in Phnom Penh charging under A$50 (USD 33) per night as budget accommodation. These hotels are ideal for budget travellers, digital nomads, and backpackers seeking cheap but quality places to stay in Phnom Penh.
What Makes a Hotel the “Best”?
“Best” is subjective, but here’s what I typically look for in affordable hotels:
- Price – Clean and comfy under A$50/night.
- Location – Preferably city centre or near nightlife, transport, or attractions.
- Service – Friendly, helpful staff and easy check-in/check-out.
- Amenities – Perks like Wi-Fi, free parking, breakfast, pool access, etc.
When Did We Travel?
Amen and I travelled to Phnom Penh after Christmas 2024—during peak tourist season. Accommodation rates were higher than usual due to New Year festivities, so your off-season prices might be even lower.
1. Monsoon Bassac Hotel Phnom Penh
📍 Central Phnom Penh – Bassac Lane District
This hotel is centrally located on Oknha Chru You Hak Street, surrounded by cafes, bars, massage parlours, and clubs. AEON Mall Phnom Penh is just around the corner.
I booked a Deluxe Double Room with a balcony and a decent work desk. Great night views from the 4th floor and reliable hot water in the modern bathroom.
- Stayed: 3–4 January 2025
- Price: USD 24.30
- Cashback: A$6.93
- Perks: Free Wi-Fi, parking (I parked my scooter on the roadside)
- Address: 8z Oknha Chrun You Hak St (294), Phnom Penh 12000
- Phone: +855 7092 1522
2. Okay Palace Hotel Phnom Penh
📍 Near the Royal Palace & Sisowath Quay
Perfectly positioned just a 2-minute walk from the Royal University of Fine Arts and a short stroll to the riverside and nightlife spots.
The façade features elegant dark wood, and my Deluxe Double Room with city views came with a balcony and warm lighting.
- Stayed: 27–30 December 2024 (3 nights)
- Total: A$129
- Cashback: A$24
- Perks: Free Wi-Fi, parking, coffee/tea, express check-in, welcome drink
- Address: Street 19, 42, Phnom Penh
- Phone: +855 77 519 967
3. Poolside Villa Phnom Penh
📍 1 Minute from Bassac Street – Ideal for Backpackers
Although technically a hostel, Poolside Villa offers private rooms too. I chose a Standard Single Room for a night out. The room had a tiny bathroom, but it was self-contained.
This place is great for solo travellers and backpackers. The poolside bar stays open late, and there’s a social area for remote workers and digital nomads.
- Stayed: 31 Dec – 1 Jan 2025
- Total: A$28.54
- Cashback: A$1.25
- Perks: Free Wi-Fi, pool access, express check-in
- Address: 18 Abdul Carime Street (21), Phnom Penh
- Phone: +855 8737 2017
📝 Bassac Street nearby is one of the best nightlife hubs in Phnom Penh. Expect top bars, restaurants, and wild energy on New Year’s Eve.
4. Rose Emerald Hotel Phnom Penh
📍 Close to Orussey Market & Japanese Restaurants
Don’t be fooled by the outside—Rose Emerald Hotel is modern and clean on the inside. The English-speaking staff were helpful, and my Superior Twin Room included a fridge and TV. There’s also an elevator to the rooms.
The area is walkable with access to markets, eateries, and public transport.
- Stayed: 30–31 December 2024
- Total: A$40.29
- Cashback: A$4.93
- Perks: Drinking water, Wi-Fi, parking, express check-in
- Address: No 36, St 232 Corner 115, Sangkat Veal Vong, Khan 7 Makara, Phnom Penh 12253
- Phone: +855 2322 3232
5. Relax Hotel Phnom Penh
📍 Quiet Suburb – Ideal for Rest Days
Relax Hotel is further out, so I hired a scooter to get around. The area is peaceful, with local cafes nearby. English isn’t widely spoken here, but I found a helpful staff member who assisted with food orders.
Unlike others, Relax Hotel includes a free breakfast and offers generous perks like a room upgrade and welcome drink.
- Stayed: 1–2 January 2025
- Total: A$37.46
- Cashback: A$1.94
- Perks: Breakfast, Wi-Fi, parking, welcome drink, coffee/tea, free upgrade
- Address: No 81, Oknha Nou Kan (St 105), Corner of St 320, 12304, Phnom Penh
- Phone: +855 1288 0223
Pro Tips for Booking Budget Hotels in Phnom Penh
- ✅ Download Agoda, Trip.com, and Booking.com apps – Compare deals.
- ✅ Choose cancellable bookings to stay flexible.
- ✅ Look for last-minute offers – Agoda often pushes flash deals.
- ✅ Stay in different areas of the city – Great for exploring like a local.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia this year, I hope these top-rated budget hotels in Phnom Penh help you make smart, affordable choices. I wasn’t paid to write this review—just sharing the experience for fellow travellers.
Let me know in the comments or on my socials if you’ve stayed at any of these places or have other great suggestions!
Cambodia or Vietnam? Which Should You Visit? The Verdict Will Surprise You!