Is Cambodia cheap? Hell yes! Let me tell you, when you can grab a cold beer for 50 cents to a dollar and stuff your face with street food for just a buck, you’re in budget paradise. I nearly fell off my barstool the first time I saw the bill after a night out in Phnom Penh. My money stretched so far I thought I was hallucinating!
Here’s the deal – while everyone’s crying about their expensive vacations, you’ll be living like royalty in Cambodia for pocket change. Budget backpackers can easily survive on about $40 a day (and still party), but if you want a bit more comfort, you might spend up to $90 daily. Still ridiculously cheap compared to back home! Picture this: you’re sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar in Phnom Penh for $3-5 each. That same drink would probably cost you triple at home, am I right?
Transportation won’t destroy your wallet either. Tuk-tuks zip you around for $1-5 depending on how far you’re going. (Pro tip: don’t try to haggle when you’re hammered at 3 AM – you’ll end up paying more anyway.)
Look, I’ve made all the mistakes so you don’t have to. In this guide, I’ll spill everything I know about Cambodia’s nightlife costs, compare prices between popular party spots, and share my hard-earned wisdom on stretching your budget while having absolutely epic nights out. Whether you’re blowing through for a weekend or settling in for months, understanding these costs will help you live your best Cambodia life without checking your bank account every morning with dread.
Are you ready for an adventure that won’t require a loan application? Keep reading for the ultimate guide to budget travel Cambodia and the vibrant Cambodia party scene!
Is Cambodia cheap or expensive for nightlife?
After drinking my way through Southeast Asia (tough job, but someone’s gotta do it), I can tell you Cambodia is a straight-up bargain for nightlife. Your wallet will thank you while your liver might be sending hate mail.
Comparing Cambodia prices to Thailand and Vietnam
Let’s talk cold, hard facts about booze pricing. In Cambodia, local beers will set you back a whopping 50 cents to $1 at most bars, while in Thailand you’ll cough up about $2.11 for the same drink. Do the math – that’s 52.5% more of your precious travel fund gone! When you’re six beers deep, those savings really add up.
It’s not just the cheap stuff either. Imported beers in Cambodia average $2.50 versus $3.61 in Thailand. And if you’re into spirits like me, you’ll love that a spirit with mixer costs around $1 in Cambodia. ONE DOLLAR! The same drink in Thailand or Vietnam would have you digging much deeper into your pockets.
But hold up – I gotta be honest with you. Thailand definitely takes the crown for variety and quality. Bangkok topped the global charts for best nightlife cities, though Phnom Penh impressively snagged second place. Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam made the top five too, proving Southeast Asia knows how to party.
Everyone assumes Thailand is cheaper for everything, but that’s total BS. Cambodia is actually 8.9% less expensive than Thailand when you factor in rent. Between Vietnam and Cambodia? They’re pretty similar in price, but Cambodia usually wins the affordability contest, especially if you venture outside tourist traps like Siem Reap.
Look, I won’t sugar-coat it – Thailand’s nightlife scene is more developed. You’ve got legendary spots like Bangkok’s Old Town, Pattaya’s Walking Street, and those insane Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan. Cambodia just can’t compete with that level of craziness.
But what Cambodia lacks in size, it makes up for in vibe. Phnom Penh has these awesome hidden speakeasies and riverside lounges where you can actually hear your friends talk. Siem Reap’s riverside bars create this intimate atmosphere that’s a million times better than getting crushed by sweaty tourists at Thailand’s mega-parties.
How nightlife fits into overall Cambodia cost of living
Here’s where it gets really interesting. Nightlife barely dents your overall budget in Cambodia. Most travelers spend between $15-$30 total per day, with only a small chunk of that going toward entertainment. Even if you go hard at mid-range spots all night, you might only drop $20-$50 total – that’s like one cocktail in New York City!
The economics of getting hammered in Cambodia make so much sense for both tourists and expats. Draft beers for 50 cents during happy hour? Yes please! Even the fancy imported wines and spirits cost way less than back home, so you can feel bougie without the bougie price tag.
I’ve met all kinds of people living in Cambodia – some getting by comfortably on $500 a month, others living large on $3,000. Your partying habits obviously affect where you fall on that spectrum. If you’re a homebody who rarely drinks, you’ll save a ton compared to someone who’s best friends with every bartender in town (like me).
What about food to soak up all that alcohol? Street food costs less than a dollar for a filling meal. Even international restaurants only charge about $10-$15 per person. So your pre-gaming food won’t break the bank either.
For the cocktail snobs out there, you’ll pay between $4-$8 at higher-end places – still a fraction of Western prices. Wine lovers can grab decent bottles starting around $15-$20 in restaurants. Back home, that wouldn’t even cover the corkage fee!
The bottom line? Your party budget stretches way further in Cambodia than almost anywhere else. With cheap accommodation, food, and transportation, you can allocate more to having fun without stressing about your bank account.
As one expat who lived in both Thailand and Cambodia told me: “In Thailand, you pay 6-8 times more for beer and even more for spirits, but you sit in more comfortable surroundings.” Is a nicer chair worth paying 8x more for your drink? Not in my book! Most travelers I’ve met agree – they’ll happily overlook slightly worn furniture to save that much cash.
Where to go for nightlife in Cambodia
Alright party people, let’s break down Cambodia’s best nightlife spots! After stumbling (sometimes literally) through every major party zone in this country, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to spend your hard-earned dollars. From fancy rooftop vibes to grungy backpacker dives, Cambodia’s got something for every type of night owl.
Phnom Penh: rooftop bars and clubs
Phnom Penh is where the big kids play. This city brings the heat with some seriously swanky rooftop bars that’ll make your Instagram followers drool with jealousy.
Eclipse Sky Bar sits 23 floors up with jaw-dropping views that’ll make you forget how much your cocktail cost (which, by the way, is still way cheaper than back home). You can expect to drop about $32-$64 for drinks and snacks for two people. Worth it? Absolutely – where else can you sip fancy cocktails while staring at a royal palace and the Mekong River? Nowhere, that’s where.
If you’re looking for something a bit less “I just maxed out my credit card,” Sundown Social Club is your jam. This funky rooftop joint near Russian Market has those chill bohemian vibes with colorful décor and comfy rattan chairs perfect for lounging. The drinks won’t break your bank, but the skyline views are still killer.
Want to dance until your legs give out? Pontoon Night Club is where the real party animals end up. Open Wednesday through Sunday till 4 AM (though I’ve definitely stumbled out of there well past that time), this place has multiple dance floors, VIP sections if you’re feeling fancy, and a massive outdoor terrace for when you need to cool off. Right next door in the party hierarchy is Heart of Darkness, which has been keeping Phnom Penh’s night owls entertained for over a decade. The sound system here will shake your insides (in the best way possible).
For a more sophisticated experience, check out Le Moon Rooftop. This sky bar in Phnom Penh offers stunning views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River confluence, along with signature cocktails that’ll make you feel like a true connoisseur.
Siem Reap: Pub Street and beyond
Let me tell you about Cambodia Pub Street in Siem Reap – it’s exactly what it sounds like and it’s GLORIOUS. This neon-lit 100-meter stretch becomes backpacker heaven after dark. They’ve recently renovated the place with better drainage, which means you can party even during monsoon season without standing in ankle-deep water (been there, it’s not fun).
The OG spot here is Angkor What? Bar, operating since 1998 and instantly recognizable by its graffiti-covered walls that you can actually sign yourself! I may or may not have left my mark somewhere near the bathroom. Their bucket drinks will have you making questionable decisions in no time, and two people can get properly sloshed for about $11-$22. That’s like the price of ONE cocktail in New York!
Need a break from the backpacker madness? Sneak over to Miss Wong Cocktail Bar hidden down a back alley. This place feels like you’ve time-traveled to 1920s Shanghai, with exotic cocktails that’ll run you $26-$43 for two. Slightly pricier than the bucket-drinking establishments, but sometimes your liver deserves a break from mystery alcohol.
If you’re after dinner AND a show, Temple Club offers traditional Apsara dance performances before transforming into a proper nightclub. Best part? Entry is free! (Though they expect you to buy drinks, obviously.)
For a taste of local nightlife, don’t miss the Angkor Night Market. It’s a great place to grab some cheap drinks, sample local street food, and pick up souvenirs before diving into the Siem Reap nightlife scene.
Kampot and Kep: chill riverside vibes
When your brain cells need recovering from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, head south to Kampot and Kep for a more laid-back scene. Kampot’s riverside bars are perfect for those “I want to socialize but not wake up hating myself” kinda nights.
The Mad Monkey Hostel Rooftop Jungle Bar throws some decent themed parties with killer sunset views. I once attended their “Full Moon” party which was basically just a regular party where everyone pointed at the moon once. Still fun though!
Banyan Tree on Teuk Chhou Road brings the DJs and cheap drinks with stunning river views. This place gets properly wild after midnight when everyone’s had a few. It’s where travelers end up making “best friends for life” that they’ll never actually see again.
Over in Kep, it’s all about seafood and sea views. Holy Crab near the famous Crab Market lets you stuff your face with fresh seafood under the stars. Nothing beats drinking ice-cold beers at the tiny beachfront bars while listening to waves crash. For something fancier, Kep Sailing Club serves up proper cocktails with those postcard-worthy ocean panoramas.
Oh, and don’t miss Ecran Movie House in Kampot if you’re feeling something different. Watch classic films while sipping cocktails – perfect for those nights when your body is screaming “PLEASE NO MORE DANCING” but you still want to go out.
Wait, did I mention Mad Monkey throws epic water parties during hot season? Don’t forget your swimsuit! (You’ll thank me later.)
More In Cambodia
Breakdown of nightlife spending
“i feel like i usually spend a lot more in PP and get less out of it.” — Cambodia Expat Forum User, Expatriate living in Cambodia sharing nightlife experiences
After countless nights stumbling between Cambodia’s best (and worst) bars, I’ve got the insider scoop on what you’ll actually pay when painting the town red. Let me break down the Cambodia nightlife costs so your wallet doesn’t get any nasty surprises.
Drinks and bar tabs
Here’s where Cambodia really shines! Local beers typically cost between 50 cents and $1.50 per can or draft in most places. That’s basically pocket change! Happy hours are even more ridiculous, usually running from 4 PM to 7 PM, where you’ll pay about $1 for draft beer and $2 for mixed drinks. I mean, at those prices, it’s basically irresponsible NOT to drink.
If fancy cocktails are more your style, you’ll shell out around $3.50 for the classics like Mojitos and Cosmos during regular hours. Want to flex with premium spirits? Standard Gordon’s Gin goes for $3, while fancy-pants Hendrick’s will set you back about $4.50. Still dirt cheap compared to what you’d pay back home!
Wine lovers (like me) should know that a glass of house wine averages $4, with bottles starting at $16. More expensive than beer for sure, but I’ve paid more than that for a SINGLE glass in Australia!
Some uniquely Cambodian drinking experiences you absolutely need to try:
Local beer with ice (sounds disgusting, tastes amazing in the heat) for 50 cents to $1
Craft beers and imported options if you’re feeling homesick, $2.50-$3.50
Ladies’ Night promotions on Thursdays with 50% off select drinks (guys, find yourself a lady friend, quick!)
Transportation and tuk-tuks
Getting around is part of your night-out budget too. Tuk-tuks, those iconic open-air taxis, typically charge $2-$5 for most city trips. Short rides within central areas cost about $1-$3, while longer journeys or late-night services might run you $5 or more.
In Phnom Penh, most tuk-tuk rides average $1-$4, but tourist hotspots like Siem Reap tend to charge a bit more. Heads up – they’ve started adding enclosed backs on tuk-tuks because bag-snatching has become more common. Nothing kills a buzz faster than having your stuff stolen!
Pro tip: Download ride-hailing apps like Grab and PassApp for pre-arranged fares. They typically start at $1 with per-kilometer charges after that, and you don’t have to haggle with drivers when you’re too drunk to do math. Since tuk-tuks don’t use meters, agreeing on prices beforehand is essential unless you’re using an app.
Entry fees and entertainment
Cover charges vary wildly depending on where you go. Big clubs like Pontoon in Phnom Penh charge around $6-$8 on weekends (usually with one free drink included, so not too shabby), while many bars don’t charge a thing to get in.
For organized party activities, expect to pay:
Pub crawls in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh: about $12 per person (worth every penny for the social aspect alone)
Live music venues: usually free entry as long as you’re buying drinks
Rooftop bars: no cover charge but cocktails between $5-$10 (you’re paying for the view, baby!)
Special events and international DJs: $10-$20 entrance fees
If you’re super cheap (like me), there are plenty of free entertainment options like catching sunset views from rooftop lounges or finding bars with free live music.
The average traveler spends about $6 daily on booze, with another $15 per day on entertainment and activities. But let’s be real – these numbers swing wildly based on how hard you party. Some nights you might spend just $20 total, while going all out could cost $50-$100 for a luxury experience. Still, that “luxury” night would barely cover an average evening back home!
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Unexpected expenses after dark
Let’s talk about the stuff nobody warns you about until it’s 3 AM and you’re staring at your empty wallet wondering what the hell happened. Trust me, I’ve been there – Cambodia’s nightlife is cheap, but those sneaky extra costs can catch you with your pants down (sometimes literally).
Safety and travel insurance considerations
Here’s a fun fact nobody mentions in the brochures – Cambodia has one of the highest rates of road traffic accidents in Southeast Asia. Yeah, not exactly a selling point, but important to know when you’re stumbling out of a bar at 2 AM looking for a ride home.
I learned this lesson the hard way when my motorcycle taxi took a corner too fast after a night at Heart of Darkness. Nothing serious happened (to me), but it was a wake-up call. Cambodia doesn’t legally require travel insurance anymore, but you’d be an absolute idiot not to have at least $50,000 coverage. Private healthcare here will bankrupt you faster than an open bar tab.
Theft gets wild after dark too. Those dudes on motorcycles aren’t just flexing – they’re looking for drunk tourists with phones hanging out of their pockets. Some tips from a guy who’s seen it happen:
Use Grab or PassApp instead of flagging down random drivers (bonus: it’s usually cheaper anyway)
Look for tuk-tuks with those metal grills – they’re like rolling cages that stop the grab-and-go thieves
For the love of god, don’t swing your fancy phone around or wear your backpack on the street side
Late-night food cravings
Nothing hits like post-party munchies, but that 2 AM fried rice comes with a premium price tag. Street food that costs $1 during the day mysteriously jumps to $2 after midnight. Still cheap, but annoying when you’re buying for your five new best friends you just met at the hostel.
The real shocker? Some restaurants in tourist zones like Siem Reap are actually more expensive than Bangkok. I nearly choked when I saw the bill at one late-night spot near Pub Street – not exactly what you expect in “cheap” Cambodia.
Oh, and never, EVER drink the tap water. Your guesthouse probably gives you free bottled water, but if you need more at 3 AM, budget about a buck for a big bottle. Your hangover will thank you.
Overpriced tourist traps
After dark, certain areas transform from chill spots to money-sucking vortexes. Pub Street in Siem Reap and Riverside in Phnom Penh are prime examples. It’s like they smell the tourist money and jack up prices accordingly.
Then there’s the sleazy side of Cambodia nightlife. Sex workers materialize in tourist areas after sunset, and while I’m not here to judge anybody’s choices, these establishments are often running scams. Drink spiking happens (especially in Sihanoukville), and those super-friendly locals who just want to “practice English” might be setting you up.
Some bars (looking at you, Street 136 in Phnom Penh) are notorious for confusing pricing schemes that somehow always end up with you paying way more than expected. And don’t get me started on the late-night “special price” for airport tuk-tuks.
My advice? Check reviews before you go, ask your hostel staff where they drink (not where they send tourists), and ALWAYS confirm prices before ordering. And remember – they use US dollars here, but they won’t take your crumpled bills with tiny tears. Bring crisp cash or prepare for rejection.
Tips to enjoy Cambodia on a budget at night
Look, I’ve blown way too much money on nights out in Cambodia before figuring out the system. After countless evenings of trial and error (and some spectacular hangovers), I’ve cracked the code on partying without emptying your wallet. Here’s how to keep those good times rolling while your bank account stays happy:
Pre-drinking and happy hours
Cambodia’s happy hours will make you question why you ever paid full price for alcohol anywhere else. These aren’t your stingy one-hour specials back home – these babies can run from 4pm all the way to 9pm! The Elephant Bar in Phnom Penh slashes drink prices by a whopping 40% between 4pm and 8pm daily. That’s FOUR HOURS of discount boozing, people!
Over in Siem Reap, places like Rambutan Hotel drop cocktail prices from $5 down to $3.50 during happy hour. The fancy-pants Living Room at Park Hyatt cuts signature cocktail prices in half between 5:30-7pm, plus discounts on everything from beer to actual champagne. Some spots even offer “free-flow” packages where you pay one price and drink until you can’t remember your own name.
Pro tip: make friends with hostel staff. They’ll tell you which happy hours are actually worth your time and which ones are just watered-down disappointments.
Avoiding scams and overcharges
Nothing kills a budget faster than getting scammed, and Cambodia has some creative ones after dark. Never, EVER, hop into unmarked taxis or random tuk-tuks at 2AM. Cambodian news regularly features stories about tourists getting taken to quiet areas where they meet the local robbery committee.
Always use ride-sharing apps that track your journey (more on this below). And please, for the love of all things holy, watch out for these classics:
Taxi meters that mysteriously “break” the moment you get in
The scenic route that somehow takes 3x longer than Google Maps says it should
Drivers who suddenly have zero change for your $20 bill
Sunrise tour guides at Angkor Wat who jack up prices after you’re already at the entrance
Oh, and never hand over your passport as rental collateral unless you fancy an extended, unplanned stay in Cambodia. Nothing ruins a night out like realizing you’ve accidentally traded your identity for a dodgy motorbike.
Using local apps for transport and deals
PassApp is your new best friend in Cambodia. It’s the biggest ride-hailing service here and typically the cheapest for tuk-tuks and taxis. Works in all the major spots – Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Poipet City.
Grab is solid too – slightly pricier sometimes but the app is smoother and you can pay cashless. TADA and WeGo are decent backups when the others are surging.
Here’s my sneaky trick – download ALL of them. Different apps have different prices depending on time and location. Taking 30 seconds to compare rates before booking can literally save you enough for another drink or three. When you’re six beers deep at 1AM, future you will thank past you for that extra cash.
Did you manage to score some epic happy hour deals in Cambodia? Let me know the best ones you found!
How much should you budget for a night out?
Alright, party people – let’s talk money! Cambodia is so ridiculously cheap for nightlife that you’ll think the bartender made a mistake every time you get the bill. After countless bleary-eyed mornings counting my remaining dollars, I’ve figured out exactly what you need to budget for different levels of fun.
Sample costs for different travel styles
Your wallet’s damage depends entirely on how fancy you wanna get:
Dirt-Cheap Backpacker ($15-30): This is my personal sweet spot! Grab several 75-cent draft beers, stuff your face with $1-2 street food, and bounce between happy hours like your life depends on it. You’ll still have cash left for a tuk-tuk home when you can’t remember which hostel you’re staying at.
Middle-of-the-Road ($50-80): Got a bit more cash to splash? This gets you cocktails at those swanky rooftop bars, a proper sit-down meal that didn’t come from a cart, and maybe entry to a club where the bathrooms actually have toilet paper. Luxury!
Baller Status ($100-200): Even Cambodia’s “expensive” night out is laughably cheap compared to back home. This budget gets you premium spirits, fancy restaurant meals, VIP club areas, and private transportation. Back home this might cover your Uber and one cocktail, but here you’re basically P. Diddy for the night.
Daily vs weekly nightlife budget
The average traveler spends about $6.06 daily on booze, but let’s be real – if you’re reading this, you’re not average. For a week of moderate partying, set aside $42-50. If you’re planning to go wild every night (hey, no judgment), bump that up to $100-150.
Honestly, the Mad Monkey Pub Crawl for $12 is one of the best deals around. You’ll get drinks included plus meet a bunch of other travelers who also make terrible decisions after midnight.
When to splurge and when to save
Worth emptying your wallet for:
Those Instagram-worthy riverside bars in Phnom Penh (the views are actually better than your filtered photos)
Any night with international DJs (rare enough to be worth it)
Fancy cocktails at places like Picasso Bar (they’re art in a glass, for real)
Save your cash on:
Pre-party at happy hours (some run until 9 PM – that’s not “happy hour,” that’s “happy half-day”)
Tuk-tuks after midnight (use apps instead of trying to negotiate when your brain is swimming in Angkor beer)
Buy drinks from convenience stores before heading out (pre-gaming is an international language)
Here’s the crazy part – even when you “splurge” in Cambodia, you’re still spending a fraction of what you would back home. A night that would bankrupt you in London or New York ($200+) costs maybe $80-100 in Phnom Penh. Your bank account will thank you, even if your liver won’t.
Did you make it this far? Congratulations! You now know more about Cambodia’s party prices than 99% of travelers.
Did You Survive Cambodia?
Look, after crawling through Cambodia’s bar scene for longer than my liver probably wanted, I can tell you one thing for sure – your wallet will thank you for choosing Cambodia over its neighbors. Yeah, Thailand’s got flashier clubs and Vietnam might match some prices, but Cambodia wins the “bang for your buck” trophy hands down. Budget backpackers can stretch $15-30 into an epic night out, while the fancy folks among us can live like royalty for $100-200 (which would barely get you through the door in most Western cities).
But it’s not just about cheap drinks (though 50-cent beers are pretty damn convincing). Each city gives you something different. Want to feel sophisticated while gazing at city lights? Phnom Penh’s rooftop bars have you covered. Looking to make friends with every backpacker from Australia to Zimbabwe? Siem Reap’s Pub Street is your jam. Need to chill by the water with a cold one? Kampot’s riverside spots are calling your name.
I won’t lie though – you still need to watch your ass after dark. Cambodia isn’t Disneyland. Use those ride apps instead of jumping in random tuk-tuks, keep your phone away from sticky fingers, and maybe don’t flash your Rolex (if you’re the type who still has a Rolex after a backpacking trip). Common sense stuff, really.
What I love most about Cambodia’s nightlife is that it works for everyone. You can be a complete cheapskate (like me) nursing 50-cent drafts all night, or you can ball out with premium spirits at skyline venues – either way, you’re spending way less than you would back home.
After bouncing around Southeast Asia more times than I can count, I haven’t found anywhere else that hits this sweet spot of cheap drinks, cool venues, and genuine experiences quite like Cambodia. So grab a beer with ice (yes, Cambodians put ice in beer, just roll with it), find a spot with a view, and toast to making your friends back home jealous of how far your money stretches here.
Did you get drunk in Cambodia? Let us know your experiences in the comments!
FAQs
Q1. Is Cambodia a good destination for nightlife? Cambodia offers a vibrant and welcoming nightlife scene. From rooftop bars in Phnom Penh to the lively Pub Street in Siem Reap, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of experiences. The country’s affordability makes it particularly attractive for those looking to have a good time without breaking the bank.
Q2. How much should I budget for a night out in Cambodia? Budget travelers can enjoy an evening out for $15-30, including drinks, food, and transportation. Mid-range travelers typically spend $50-80, while those seeking luxury experiences might allocate $100-200. Even at the higher end, these prices are considerably lower than in many Western countries.
Q3. Are there any safety concerns for nightlife in Cambodia? While Cambodia is generally safe for tourists, it’s important to take precautions, especially at night. Use reputable ride-hailing apps for transportation, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid unmarked taxis. It’s also advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Q4. What are some popular nightlife areas in Cambodia? Key nightlife areas include Phnom Penh’s riverside and rooftop bars, Siem Reap’s famous Pub Street, and the relaxed riverside venues in Kampot. Each area offers a unique atmosphere, from cosmopolitan vibes to backpacker-friendly scenes.
Q5. How do nightlife costs in Cambodia compare to neighboring countries? Cambodia is generally more affordable for nightlife compared to Thailand and on par with Vietnam. Local beers can cost as little as $0.50-$1, and even upscale venues offer drinks at a fraction of Western prices. This makes Cambodia an excellent value destination for those looking to enjoy nightlife on various budgets.
