Finding the right apartment in Phnom Penh can make a big difference to your experience in Cambodia’s capital. Whether you are visiting for a few days, staying for several weeks, working remotely, or planning to live in the city for several months, apartments can offer more space, privacy, and flexibility than a traditional hotel.
Phnom Penh has a wide range of apartments, from affordable studios to modern serviced residences and luxury apartments with swimming pools, gyms, restaurants, and 24-hour security. Popular areas such as BKK1, Tonle Bassac, Riverside, Toul Kork, and Sen Sok each offer a different atmosphere and price range.
In this guide, we look at some of the best types of apartments in Phnom Penh, the best neighborhoods to consider, and what to check before booking.
1. Best Apartments in BKK1
BKK1, also known as Boeung Keng Kang 1, is one of the most popular areas in Phnom Penh for foreigners, business travelers, digital nomads, and long-term residents.
The neighborhood has a large selection of modern apartments and serviced residences. You will also find international restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, gyms, pharmacies, and convenience stores within easy reach.
Many apartments in BKK1 offer furnished rooms with kitchens, washing machines, balconies, Wi-Fi, and housekeeping services. Some higher-end properties also have rooftop swimming pools and fitness centers.
Best for: Expats, business travelers, couples, and long-term visitors.
If you want to stay somewhere convenient and lively without being directly in the busiest part of central Phnom Penh, BKK1 is an excellent choice.
2. Best Serviced Apartments in Phnom Penh
Serviced apartments are ideal for travelers who want the space of an apartment while still enjoying hotel-style services.
Depending on the property, services may include housekeeping, reception, security, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, breakfast, maintenance, and access to swimming pools or gyms.
Serviced apartments are particularly convenient for people staying in Phnom Penh for a week or longer. Instead of staying in a standard hotel room, you may have a separate living area, dining space, kitchen, and bedroom.
Some properties offer daily or weekly rates, while others specialize in monthly rentals.
Best for: Business travelers, families, digital nomads, and longer stays.
When comparing serviced apartments, check exactly what is included in the advertised price. Electricity, water, cleaning, internet, parking, and other services may be charged separately.
3. Best Luxury Apartments in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh has developed rapidly, and the city now has many modern residential buildings designed for people looking for a higher standard of accommodation.
Luxury apartments may include spacious living rooms, modern kitchens, large bedrooms, balconies, swimming pools, gyms, rooftop areas, parking, and 24-hour security.
Some buildings also provide restaurants, cafes, coworking spaces, children’s areas, and other facilities.
Luxury apartments are particularly common in central neighborhoods such as BKK1, Tonle Bassac, and around the city center.
Best for: Couples, professionals, families, and travelers who prioritize comfort and facilities.
Before booking a luxury apartment, look beyond the photographs. Check the actual apartment size, age of the building, maintenance quality, noise level, and recent guest reviews.
4. Best Budget Apartments in Phnom Penh
Travelers on a budget can also find affordable apartments throughout Phnom Penh.
Budget apartments are generally more basic than luxury serviced residences, but many provide the essentials, including air conditioning, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, refrigerators, beds, and small kitchens.
Prices can vary considerably depending on location, apartment size, furnishings, and included utilities.
Areas outside the most expensive central neighborhoods can provide better value for travelers who do not need to be close to Phnom Penh’s main tourist attractions.
Best for: Students, budget travelers, long-term residents, and independent travelers.
If you are renting for a month or longer, always ask about electricity and water rates. A low monthly rent can become considerably more expensive if utilities are charged at a high rate.
5. Best Apartments for Long-Term Stays
Phnom Penh is a popular destination for people who stay for several months rather than just a few days.
Long-term apartments can provide better value and a more comfortable lifestyle than hotels. Having a kitchen, washing machine, living room, and additional storage space can make an extended stay much easier.
When looking for a long-term apartment, consider more than just the monthly rent.
Check:
- Electricity and water costs
- Internet quality
- Cleaning services
- Security
- Parking
- Elevator access
- Noise levels
- Kitchen equipment
- Washing machine
- Maintenance
- Lease terms
- Deposit requirements
It is also worth visiting the apartment in person before signing a long-term agreement whenever possible.
6. Best Apartments for Families
Families often need more space than a standard hotel room can provide. A one-bedroom or two-bedroom apartment can offer separate sleeping and living areas, making it easier for parents and children to have their own space.
Family-friendly apartment buildings may also offer swimming pools, children’s areas, parking, larger kitchens, and additional security.
For families, location is especially important. Being close to supermarkets, restaurants, pharmacies, schools, and medical facilities can make everyday life much easier.
Best for: Families staying for several weeks or months.
Before booking, confirm the apartment’s maximum occupancy and whether additional beds or children’s facilities are available.
7. Best Apartments With Swimming Pools
A swimming pool can be a major advantage in Phnom Penh, especially during Cambodia’s hot weather.
Many modern serviced apartments and residential buildings have rooftop or ground-level swimming pools. Some luxury properties also offer separate children’s pools or relaxing pool areas.
A pool can be particularly valuable if you are staying for a long period because it provides a convenient way to relax without having to travel across the city.
However, check whether the pool is open throughout your stay and whether there are any restrictions on operating hours.
8. Best Apartments With Gyms
For travelers who want to maintain their fitness routine, an apartment building with a gym can be very convenient.
Modern residences may provide cardio machines, weights, exercise bikes, treadmills, and other basic equipment. Some luxury properties have larger fitness centers with modern equipment.
If fitness is important to you, check recent photographs or reviews rather than assuming that every advertised gym will meet your expectations.
9. Best Areas to Stay in Phnom Penh
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the apartment itself.
BKK1
One of the most popular choices for foreigners, with restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, and modern accommodation.
Tonle Bassac
A central and increasingly popular neighborhood with restaurants, cafes, entertainment, and modern residences.
Riverside
A good option for visitors who want to be close to the Mekong River, tourist attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
Toul Kork
A popular residential area with shopping centers, restaurants, universities, and a growing number of modern apartments.
Sen Sok
A quieter option with shopping malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and residential developments. It can be attractive for longer stays.
The best neighborhood depends on your priorities. A tourist may prefer Riverside, while a business traveler may prefer BKK1 or Tonle Bassac.
10. How Much Does an Apartment Cost in Phnom Penh?
Apartment prices vary widely depending on location, size, facilities, furnishings, and rental duration.
A basic apartment may be relatively affordable, while a modern serviced apartment in a prime central location can cost considerably more.
Short-term rentals are usually more expensive on a daily basis, while monthly and longer-term agreements may offer better value.
When comparing apartments, don’t look only at the advertised rent. Calculate the total expected monthly cost, including utilities, internet, cleaning, parking, and other fees.
What to Check Before Booking an Apartment
Before making a reservation or signing a rental agreement, check the following:
Location: Make sure the apartment is convenient for your work, sightseeing, restaurants, or other daily activities.
Reviews: Read recent reviews to identify recurring problems such as noise, cleanliness, poor Wi-Fi, or maintenance issues.
Internet: Reliable internet is especially important for remote workers and business travelers.
Utilities: Confirm whether electricity, water, internet, and cleaning are included.
Security: Look for secure entrances, reception services, CCTV, and other appropriate security measures.
Facilities: Confirm whether swimming pools, gyms, parking, and other facilities are actually available during your stay.
Rental terms: For long-term rentals, carefully review the deposit, minimum stay, payment schedule, and cancellation conditions.
Hotel vs Apartment in Phnom Penh
For short trips of only a few nights, a hotel may be simpler and more convenient.
For longer stays, an apartment can offer better value and significantly more living space.
An apartment is particularly useful if you want a kitchen, washing machine, separate living area, or more privacy. A serviced apartment can provide a middle ground between the two, combining apartment-style accommodation with hotel-like services.
The right choice ultimately depends on the length of your stay, budget, preferred neighborhood, and the facilities you need.
Final Thoughts
Phnom Penh offers apartments for almost every type of traveler. From affordable studios to luxury serviced residences, there are many options for short-term visitors, families, business travelers, digital nomads, and long-term residents.
For convenience and access to restaurants and services, BKK1 and Tonle Bassac are excellent places to start. Riverside can be attractive for tourists, while Toul Kork and Sen Sok may appeal more to people looking for residential neighborhoods.
Before booking, compare the total cost, location, facilities, reviews, and rental conditions rather than choosing based only on the advertised price.
With the right research, an apartment in Phnom Penh can provide a comfortable, convenient, and affordable base for exploring Cambodia’s capital.
FAQ — Best Apartments in Phnom Penh
1. What are the best areas to stay in an apartment in Phnom Penh?
BKK1, Tonle Bassac, Riverside, Toul Kork, and Sen Sok are popular choices. BKK1 and Tonle Bassac are particularly convenient for restaurants, cafes, shopping, and access to central Phnom Penh.
2. How much does an apartment in Phnom Penh cost?
Apartment prices vary depending on location, size, facilities, and rental duration. Budget apartments can be affordable, while luxury and serviced apartments in central areas generally cost more.
3. Are apartments in Phnom Penh good for long-term stays?
Yes. Apartments can be an excellent choice for long-term stays because they often provide more space and facilities than hotels, including kitchens, living areas, washing machines, and sometimes swimming pools and gyms.
4. Which Phnom Penh apartments are best for families?
Families should look for larger one- or two-bedroom apartments with kitchens, swimming pools, security, parking, and convenient access to supermarkets, restaurants, and other everyday services.
5. What should I check before renting an apartment in Phnom Penh?
Check the location, monthly rent, electricity and water costs, internet quality, security, facilities, maintenance, deposit, lease terms, and whether cleaning or parking is included.
