The Best Cheap Hotel in Phnom Penh for Backpackers

This blog post is all about the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Welcome to the Checking In series on Orlagh Claire where I review my stay in hotels, hostels, guest houses and AirBnBs around the world. This review: White Corner Hotel, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

You can see hotel room tours of everywhere we’ve stayed over on my YouTube channel.

Next in this series of hotel reviews is White Corner Hotel, Phnom Penh which was our final stop on our tour of Cambodia.

Phnom Penh was so different from the other regions of Cambodia we had previously explored. The capital was much more developed, modern and busier than the cities of Siem Reap and Battambang.

We had a great stay at White Corner Hotel, the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh and I’ve detailed everything about our stay below.

Top tip: for mobile data around Asia, we used the Jetpac eSim. This was super handy and easily installed onto our phones as soon as we arrived in Japan! Get $5 off your eSIM package when you use my referral code: ORLZRNL2.

This blog post is all about the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh.

Why You Should Visit Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, might not always be the first stop for backpackers, but it absolutely deserves a place on your Southeast Asia itinerary.

Here’s why:

1. Rich History and Culture

Phnom Penh is home to some of Cambodia’s most important historical sites.

The Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offer a sobering yet crucial insight into the country’s past, while the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda showcase its cultural and architectural beauty.

2. Affordable Travel

For budget-conscious backpackers, Phnom Penh is a dream.

Accommodation, street food, and transport are incredibly cheap, meaning you can experience the city without breaking the bank.

3. A Bustling Backpacker Scene

Phnom Penh has a growing backpacker community, with hostels and bars that are perfect for meeting fellow travellers.

The city’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to find travel buddies or relax with a beer by the river.

4. Amazing Street Food

Foodies will love exploring Phnom Penh’s vibrant street food scene.

From skewered meats and noodle soups to local favourites like amok (a fish curry) and num pang (Cambodian sandwiches), the flavours are unforgettable.

5. The Mighty Mekong River

Phnom Penh sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, offering beautiful riverside views and opportunities for boat rides.

Watching the sunset over the river is a highlight of any visit.

6. Thriving Nightlife

The nightlife in Phnom Penh is both lively and diverse.

From rooftop bars to underground clubs, and live music venues to quiet riverside pubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy after dark.

7. Gateway to Cambodia’s Hidden Gems

Phnom Penh is a great jumping-off point for exploring the rest of Cambodia.

Whether you’re heading south to the beaches of Kampot and Kep or north to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, it’s easy to plan your next adventure from here.

Phnom Penh combines history, culture, and adventure with an easygoing charm, making it a must-visit destination for any backpacker exploring Southeast Asia.

Best Local Dishes to Try in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is a paradise for food lovers, and its local cuisine reflects the city’s vibrant culture and rich history.

Whether you’re eating at a street vendor or a cozy family-run restaurant, here are some must-try dishes while staying at the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh:

1. Fish Amok

This creamy coconut curry is Cambodia’s national dish. Made with fish, lemongrass, turmeric, and coconut milk, it’s gently steamed and often served in a banana leaf bowl. It’s rich, fragrant, and uniquely Cambodian.

Where to try it:

Friends the Restaurant – A social enterprise serving delicious, high-quality meals.
Romdeng – Another socially conscious restaurant offering a superb version of this classic dish.

2. Kuy Teav (Rice Noodle Soup)

A popular breakfast dish, kuy teav is a flavourful soup made with pork or beef broth, rice noodles, herbs, and often topped with bean sprouts, lime, and chilli. Perfect for kickstarting your day!

Where to try it:

Pteah Phnom Penh – Known for authentic and hearty kuy teav.
Riverside Street Vendors – Enjoy it like the locals, fresh and steaming by the Mekong.

3. Beef Lok Lak

This stir-fried beef dish is served with a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce, fresh vegetables, and sometimes a fried egg on top. It’s simple but packed with flavour.

Where to try it:

Khmer Surin – A cozy spot with a great take on lok lak.
Lucky Pho – Affordable and delicious.

Phnom Penh’s culinary scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the local dishes here will leave your taste buds and heart satisfied.

Other Must-Visit Regions of Cambodia to Visit

While Phnom Penh is an incredible starting point, Cambodia has so much more to offer.

From ancient temples to laid-back islands, here are three other destinations you should add to your itinerary:

1. Siem Reap: The Gateway to Angkor Wat

Siem Reap is world-famous for being the home of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world.

But this charming town has more than just temples. Explore the buzzing Old Market, take a tuk-tuk ride through the countryside, or enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance.

Siem Reap is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with Pub Street at the heart of the action.

RELATED blog post to read: Siem Reap, Cambodia: How to Spend 4 Days Here

2. Battambang: Artsy Vibes and Rural Adventures

For a quieter and more artsy vibe, head to Battambang. This laid-back city is known for its French colonial architecture, local art scene, and the iconic bamboo train ride.

Battambang also offers a peek into Cambodia’s rural life, with lush rice fields and small villages just a short bike ride away.

RELATED blog post to read: Battambang, Cambodia: How to Spend 48 Hours Here

3. Koh Rong: A Slice of Island Paradise

If you’re craving some sun, sand, and sea, Koh Rong is the place to go. Located off Cambodia’s southern coast, this island is a tropical paradise with powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Backpackers love it for its relaxed vibe, affordable hotels, and beach parties under the stars. For a quieter escape, check out nearby Koh Rong Samloem.

These destinations show off Cambodia’s incredible diversity, from ancient wonders to peaceful countryside and tropical getaways.

Wherever you go, you’ll find the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Best Cheap Hotel in Phnom Penh for Backpackers: White Corner Hotel

See my full review below of the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh, the White Corner Hotel!

Location of White Corner Hotel

The White Corner Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of Phnom Penh, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. And a great cheap hotel in Phnom Penh. It’s located in a lively yet manageable part of town, meaning you’re close enough to the action without being overwhelmed by noise or crowds.

From here, you’re within walking distance of many key attractions, like the Central Market for souvenir shopping and local eats, or Wat Phnom, a serene hilltop temple.

The riverside area, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and the Royal Palace, is just a short tuk-tuk ride away. Plus, the hotel’s proximity to public transportation and tuk-tuk stands makes getting around the city a breeze.

The neighbourhood also has an array of affordable food options, from local street vendors to budget-friendly cafes. Whether you’re starting your day with a coffee or grabbing dinner after a long day of sightseeing, you won’t have to venture far.

Cost to Stay at White Corner Hotel

We stayed at White Corner Hotel during the month of May, and our three-night stay here cost a total of £42.

We had a private double room and if I break it down to cost per night for two of us, this makes it £14 per night.

If I break this down even further to cost per person, per night, this cost us £7 each per night. A bargain, and the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh!

Overall Review of White Corner Hotel

We had a great stay at White Corner Hotel in Phnom Penh, and would definitely stay here again if we came back to the city.

Its location for us was great, as we could walk to most locations or easily grab a cheap tuk-tuk on Grab from right outside.

There were many coffee shops nearby for us to grab a quick coffee in the morning, or bring our laptops and get some work done.

Check out White Corner Hotel here and book your stay for your trip to Phnom Penh!

Why White Corner Hotel is a Backpacker’s Best Friend

If you’re a backpacker visiting Phnom Penh, the White Corner Hotel ticks all the right boxes. With its unbeatable location, budget-friendly rates, and comfortable amenities, it provides the perfect mix of convenience and relaxation after a day of exploring Cambodia’s bustling capital.

Whether you’re diving into the city’s rich history, sampling local street food, or enjoying a chilled evening by the riverside, the White Corner Hotel makes it all easier and more enjoyable. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s your home base for an unforgettable Phnom Penh adventure.

So, pack your bags, book your room, and get ready to experience the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh.

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This blog post is all about the best cheap hotel in Phnom Penh.