Last checked: October 2026
Where you stay in Cambodia affects both how much you see and how safe you feel, so choose a base carefully. This guide explains the main bases and what the official advice says about each area. We did not find official hotel price data, so we do not quote room rates or name specific hotels, and you should compare current prices on the partner sites below. Always check recent guest reviews for location and security.
How to Choose a Base
- Location first: Pick a hotel in a well-lit area with easy access to licensed transport, especially if you arrive or return at night.
- Season: November to March is the peak season, so book early. The wet season from June to October is quieter, according to Intrepid Travel.
- Registration: The UK government says hotels and landlords register guests through the FPCS app, so keep your passport details handy at check-in.
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the base for Angkor and where most visitors stay. Hotels range widely, so decide how much you value being close to the town centre versus having a quiet setting, and ask how you will reach the temples, since a sunrise visit means a very early start. The US advisory, as reported, flags Siem Reap province for unexploded ordnance, which matters if you plan to leave the main routes, so book excursions with an established operator.
Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital and the main business and cultural base. The US advisory says the city needs extra caution because of street crime, including phone and bag snatching where foreigners gather. Choose a hotel that is easy to reach by licensed transport, avoid carrying valuables on the street and ask staff which nearby areas are comfortable at night. Techo International Airport is about 20 km from the city, so allow time for the transfer.
Sihanoukville and the Coast
Sihanoukville is the main base for the southern beaches and islands, and Intrepid lists January to February as good months for diving, snorkelling and island hopping. Check recent reviews carefully for the area you choose, confirm how you will reach any island accommodation, and ask about boat schedules in the wet season.
Remote Sites and Provincial Towns
For Koh Ker, Sambor Prei Kuk or Battambang, accommodation is more limited and the provinces are flagged for unexploded ordnance, so book through a local operator, confirm transport and stay on marked routes. Avoid planning stays near the Thailand border, because the UK advises against all but essential travel within 20 km of it.
What to Ask Before Booking
- Is the hotel in a well-lit area, and how far is it from licensed transport?
- Does it register guests through the FPCS app, and what do I need to bring?
- Does the room have a safe?
- Is breakfast included, and what is the cancellation policy?
- How do I get from the airport to the hotel at night?
Booking Tips
Compare at least two partner sites for the same dates and check whether taxes and fees are included in the total. Read recent guest reviews for comments on security, noise and the distance to transport. Choose free cancellation where you can, especially when your plans depend on flights or on weather in the wet season. Keep a copy of every confirmation and bring a printed or saved address in case a driver needs it.
Hotel Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
See also our hotel deals page for current offers.
Official Safety Advice
The US State Department rates Cambodia at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, according to a report on the advisory dated 15 September 2026. Do not accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended, and do not resist a robbery. See the Cambodia travel guide.
Safety in Your Room and on Arrival
Use the room safe if there is one, keep your passport copy separate from the original and do not leave valuables in view. If you arrive at night, arrange a licensed taxi or a pre-booked transfer, and ask the hotel to confirm the route and the fare before you travel. At bars and restaurants, do not accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended, as the US advisory warns. Drug laws are strict, and even small amounts can lead to arrest.
Peak Season and Wet Season
In the peak season from November to March, popular hotels fill early, especially around Christmas, New Year and Lunar New Year, so book as far ahead as you can. In the wet season from June to October, hotels are quieter and prices are usually lower, but heavy rain can disrupt boat trips and road travel, so choose a flexible rate. See best time to visit Cambodia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to stay for Angkor?
Siem Reap, which is the main base for the temples. Choose based on location and reviews.
Do hotels need my passport?
Yes. The UK government says hotels register guests through the FPCS app.
Is Phnom Penh safe to stay in?
It needs extra caution for street crime, according to the US advisory. Use licensed transport and keep valuables out of sight.
Should I book early?
Yes for November to March and for festival periods. See the Cambodia itineraries.
Can I stay near the Thai border?
The UK advises against all but essential travel within 20 km of the Thailand land border.
