For over a decade, buildings have been rising and filling Cambodge's capital, slowly at first, then rapidly. Many hotels, bars, and restaurants have spotted the trend and determined that a view from the roof of one of these buildings could enchant more than one person. And it's true—perched tens, even hundreds of meters above Phnom Penh's concrete jungle reveals an unsuspected charm.

There are several ways to go for a drink in Phnom Penh to unwind during your vacation after a day of sightseeing, sports, or even relaxation. Renting a boat to sail the waters of the Tonlé Sap river is one option, venturing off the beaten path through the capital and finding a small local eatery to blend in, chat, laugh, and soak in the local festive customs is another. Sure, why not. But some prefer to leave the ground and climb toward the heights. To feel that emotional rush. To step into the elevator and escape the constant roar of rush hour traffic on boulevards packed with motorbikes and cars, then step out onto this terrace, as peaceful as it gets, with only a carefully curated lounge and relaxing playlist for ambiance from the establishment's staff. To admire from above that chaotic street scene turned so minute, almost trivial, yet somehow artistic. Here are five rooftop bars you can try when you arrive in Phnom Penh.

The luxurious Rosewood

On your flight into Phnom Penh's skies, or in the tuk-tuk heading to your hotel, you won't be able to miss Vattanac Tower. This building, officially inaugurated in May 2018, stands out among the other downtown structures, its peak currently surpassing all others.

Its curved glass architecture at the summit opens onto an immense terrace facing due west and with no obstructed views. Here sits the Rosewood bar, on the 37th floor of the building. It completely embraces the terrace and opens every day of the week from 5 p.m. to take advantage of an extraordinary sunset. Barring some bad luck and cloudy skies, nothing up there will block your view of the sun. Be warned, however, that proper dress code is required—no shorts for men, and no flip-flops for anyone! But the price is well worth it.

The youthful Eclipse

If after reading this article you decide to test these rooftop bars in order, turn from the Rosewood terrace toward the south. You'll see Phnom Penh Tower. This one, with a much more basic architecture than the previous one, welcomes the Eclipse Sky Bar on its roof. This establishment has a terrace that follows the entire roof shape, giving you here, in other words, a 360° view over Phnom Penh. It's the trendy bar much in fashion among Khmer students in the capital, the music is more festive and the cocktails cheaper than at Rosewood! The location offers a genuine panoramic vision of the entire city. Opens from 5 p.m.

The natural charm of Vehaa

Located in the Bassac Lane neighborhood, south of Sisowath Quay, Vehaa completely overturns the codes of other rooftop bars in Phnom Penh. Here nature holds its ground. It's certainly the visible wish of the establishment's team. You'll be surrounded by trees and greenery across the two levels available to the bar. Prices remain affordable and the terrace offers a panoramic view of the Mekong! A very strong point.

The glass pool at Aquarius

The Aquarius hotel, located in the BKK 1 neighborhood near the Independence Monument, offers a rooftop bar with a swimming pool. The pool itself is quite charming and features original architecture. It is indeed glass-walled and the interior is visible from the outside. It sits lower than the previous rooftops but still offers a lovely view of the surroundings. The bar aims for less ostentation and can offer you a more romantic experience.

The Lumière rooftop

The Lumière hotel offers within it a bar terrace facing west and without a roof so you can watch the sunset. It adjoins a rather luxurious and charming dining room, with its floor-to-ceiling bay windows and large frescoes that give the place an artistic feel. The major advantage of coming to this hotel's rooftop is undoubtedly the presence of a jacuzzi on the terrace! Located on the 14th floor in a quieter neighborhood than the last two bars mentioned, the Lumière rooftop can be an ideal destination for spending a complete evening, aperitif and dinner, with a group or as a couple.