Travelers to Cambodia don’t usually spend much time in Phnom Penh. The capital city has long been considered an airport city — a quick stop on the way to Siem Reap. And visitors focus on Siem Reap for one good reason: Angkor. Angkor is the world’s largest archeological site so it is hard to pass on. While it’s hard to imagine travelers ever ignoring Siem Reap entirely, things have been slowly but surely shifting for Phnom Penh. It’s becoming a lot more attractive. In fact, rumor has it that it’s on its way to becoming Southeast Asia’s next business hub, taking attention away from Singapore and Hong Kong. And if you need proof, luxury hotels and excellent restaurants are opening up left and right. Testing them all should be reason enough for you to carve out a few days in the Cambodian capital.
Luxury Hotels in Phnom Penh
Rosewood Phnom Penh
With two Michelin keys, Rosewood Phnom Penh is the most high-end accommodation option in the Cambodian capital. The 39-story skyscraper is home to 171 exquisite rooms and suites, as well as several top-notch food and drink venues. We particularly like Butterfly Patisserie on the 35th floor for sweet treats, and Sora on the 37th floor for sweeping outdoor views of the city and stunning cocktails.
Raffles Hotel Le Royal
Those who prefer a less contemporary vibe for their stay in Phnom Penh will find their happy place is this historic hotel, Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Opened in 1929 and fully renovated in the late 90s, Raffles Hotel Le Royal has kept all its Art Déco and Colonial charm. Jackie Onassis stayed there back in the day, so there’s a suite named after her — which, naturally, is one the best in the house. The gorgeous outdoor pool with its lush trees surrounding is almost as effective as the house spa to lower your blood pressure. And the best part of this one-Michelin-key property is that you can try Khmer cuisine at the onsite Le Royal restaurant.
Shangri-La Phnom Penh
While Shangri-La Phnom Penh‘s decor combines luxe Kmer and Art Déco decor, it’s definitely on the contemporary side. It has a rooftop bar and an infinity pool with extraordinary views of the city. Opt for a river view suite on one of the top floors to make the most of the hotel’s location and vertical architecture. While it opened in late 2024, Shangri-La Phnom Penh already has one Michelin key – you’re in good hands.
More luxury hotels will be opening their doors in the next few months and years. This includes the Pan Pacific Phnom Penh in 2026, the Crowne Plaza Phnom Penh (an IHG property) in 2027.
Fine Dining in Phnom Penh
You’ll find a lot of fine dining venues within the walls of the aforementioned Phnom Penh luxury hotels. But not only.
Cuts, located in the Rosewood property, is among the best. As one of the highest restaurants in the city, this steakhouse offers great views. But, it’s the dry-aged beef, crudo bar, and wine cellar that makes it very popular.
For beautifully presented and oh-so-delicious modern Kmer gastronomy, Sombok is your best bet.
And for traditional, high-end French fare, head over to Topaz and try to snatch a table in the courtyard under the Banyan tree.
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FAQs
Q: How do you pronounce Phnom Penh?
A: The capital of Cambodia is pronounced puh-naam pen.
Q: What is the best hotel in Phnom Penh?
A: Rosewood Phnom Penh is the only property with two Michelin keys in the Cambodian capital.
Q: When did Shangri-La Phnom Penh open ?
A: The highly anticipated property opened in late December 2024.
