Raffles Hotel Le Royal occupies one of the most historically charged addresses in Phnom Penh. Opened in 1929, this palace designed during the French Indochina era has witnessed nearly a century of Cambodian history. Today affiliated with the Raffles brand, it retains its colonial architecture, tropical gardens and hushed atmosphere, just steps from the Wat Phnom quarter.

Why choose Raffles Le Royal

This address appeals to travelers with a taste for history and heritage. The main building has hosted war correspondents, heads of state and Jacqueline Kennedy during her official visit in 1967—a signature cocktail, the Femme Fatale, pays tribute to her at the hotel's bar. Beyond the place's storied past, it is also one of the rare establishments in the capital to offer a genuine garden with pool, spa and refined dining.

• Historic palace from 1929, restored in respect of its original architecture
• Tropical gardens and two pools in the heart of the city center
• Restaurant serving Khmer and French cuisine
• Saturday brunch with champagne and cocktails
• On-site spa and fitness center

Atmosphere and architecture

Raffles Le Royal blends Art Deco, Khmer influences and French colonial style. Corridors with period cement tiles, ceiling fans, dark wood furniture and black-and-white photographs remind you that this is a living place, not a reconstruction. The Elephant Bar, a gathering point for travelers for decades, retains its club atmosphere with leather armchairs and patinated woodwork. In the evening, soft lighting and illuminated gardens create an ambiance characteristic of tropical palaces in Southeast Asia.

The rooms

Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and ceiling fan, Wi-Fi, television, minibar and safe. Most feature a private balcony overlooking the gardens or pool. A fresh fruit platter is delivered to your room daily, a discreet touch that is part of the hotel's signature. Several categories are available, from classic rooms to historic suites named after notable guests who have stayed at the hotel.

Dining and services

The hotel restaurant offers Khmer and French cuisine, with a menu that reimagines Cambodian culinary classics (amok, lok lak) alongside more traditional French dishes. The Saturday brunch, served with unlimited champagne and cocktails, is a beloved local institution among both expatriate residents of Phnom Penh and visiting travelers.

Services include:

• Spa with treatments inspired by Khmer traditions
• Fitness center
• Two outdoor pools in the gardens
• Historic bar (Elephant Bar) and tea lounge
• Concierge service for excursions and guided visits

Location

The hotel is located at 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh, in the Sangkat Wat Phnom quarter, north of Phnom Penh's historic center. This area, quieter than the banks of the Tonlé Sap, remains accessible on foot or just minutes by tuk-tuk from the capital's main points of interest. Phnom Penh International Airport is reached in 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic.

What to see nearby

• Wat Phnom, the temple-hill that founded the city, just a few minutes on foot
• The Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda, south of the center
• The National Museum of Cambodge, featuring a rich collection of Khmer art
• The Central Market (Phsar Thmei), an emblematic yellow Art Deco building
• The banks of the Tonlé Sap and Sisowath Quay for an evening stroll

Planning your stay

Raffles Le Royal fits naturally into an itinerary combining Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Cambodia's coast. To compare with other addresses in the capital, you can consult Le Grand Palais Boutique Hotel, Palace Gate Hotel & Resort or King Grand Boutique Hotel, which offer complementary positioning.

To build a tailor-made journey incorporating this property, consult our travel itineraries in Cambodge.

Contact

Address: 92 Rukhak Vithei Daun Penh, Sangkat Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh