Soma Hotel Riverside, Phnom Penh-Cambodia

Soma Hotel Riverside, Phnom Penh

A refined riverside stay with five-star service

When I was searching for a hotel in Phnom Penh, I took time to do a thorough review. Soma Hotel Riverside stood out immediately, despite being a relatively new property with fewer reviews. The design, location, and overall concept caught my attention. Hotels in Southeast Asia can sometimes be a bit… catfish compared to their photos (we’ve all been there 😅), but I’m happy to say this choice did not disappoint at all. In fact, it exceeded expectations.

Some hotels immediately make you feel at ease. Soma Hotel Riverside is one of those places. A gorgeous 4-star property with the level of care and attention you would expect from a five-star experience, it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for comfort, style, and a central location in Phnom Penh.

First impressions

From the moment you step into the stunning lobby, the tone is set. The design is intimate, minimalist, and chic, creating a calm and elegant atmosphere without feeling cold or overly formal. The attention to detail throughout the hotel is subtle but intentional.

I was welcomed with a refreshing welcome drink.

Location

Perfectly centrally located, Soma Hotel Riverside is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cafés, making it easy to explore Phnom Penh on foot while still enjoying a comfortable retreat at the end of the day. The Royal Palace, night market, and several key attractions are all within walking distance. The hotel sits on a main street where events frequently take place, and during my stay the area was especially lively. The energy of the street and the nearby night market added a fun, vibrant atmosphere to the experience.

The room

The rooms are very spacious, beautifully decorated, and thoughtfully laid out. The bed deserves a special mention: extremely comfortable, ideal after a long day exploring Phnom Penh, The bathroom was beautifully designed and featured a Japanese-style toilet. A standout service detail for me was the turndown service, which added a personal, high-end touch to the stay.

Dining & views

The hotel features a restaurant on the ground floor: Little Plates and a rooftop restaurant: Bati with a great view, perfect for relaxed meals or evening drinks overlooking the city. Both spaces feel well designed and inviting.

Amenities

The hotel features a lovely pool with a great view, though it can be a bit noisy at times as it faces the street, as well as a small but functional gym for those who want to stay active while traveling.

Service

While the hotel is officially four-star, the service and attention to detail clearly reach five-star level. Staff are attentive, warm, and genuinely focused on guest comfort, which makes a noticeable difference.

Final thoughts

Soma Hotel Riverside is an excellent option for travelers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and well-located hotel in Phnom Penh, with service that goes above expectations. A place I would happily recommend for both leisure and business stays.