Raffles 1887

The butler did it

Our Raffles Butler’s guide to Phnom Penh

Seeking to uncover the hidden charms of Phnom Penh? Ask a Raffles Hotel Le Royal butler: the safe pair of hands you need to guide you through the storied boulevards and majestic landmarks of Cambodia’s remarkable capital, revealing both the people and the culture

DAY ONE

Morning

Morning walk to Wat Phnom

Begin your adventure with a gentle morning walk to Wat Phnom, the hilltop temple from which the city takes its name. According to local legend, the temple’s four sacred Buddha statues were found in a river in the 14th century by a wealthy woman named Daun Penh. She then had a temple built on a small hill (Phnom) to house them. Surrounded by lush greenery, the temple is both a place of worship and a living piece of Phnom Penh’s history

Afternoon

"Untold Stories’ from the Resident Historian

Return to the hotel for this unique presentation by our Resident Historian, a native Cambodian. In an intimate setting, you will hear captivating tales from the hotel’s 90-year history – from royal visits and celebrity stays to pivotal moments in Cambodia’s past – and how the country became a tapestry of heritage and hope. Our royal connection sets Raffles Hotel Le Royal apart: the king has graciously granted us the use of his royal crest, many of our recipes come directly from the Royal Palace, and even our doormen wear the same colours as the palace footmen – a different colour each day of the week – making us an authentic part of Cambodia’s living heritage. 

Evening

Sunset cruise

As the day draws to a close, it’s all aboard for a sunset cruise along the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. Cooling drinks will be served as the golden glow of twilight paints the city skyline, temples and riverbanks in serene beauty.
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DAY TWO

Morning

Phnom Penh private city tour

A guided tour to Phnom Penh’s most treasured landmarks starts with the Royal Palace, a dazzling complex of Khmer architecture, home to the Silver Pagoda and precious national treasures. From here, your tour continues to the National Museum, housing one of the finest collections of Khmer art and sculpture in the world. Another interesting stop is the SOSORO Museum, an insightful look at Cambodia’s economic history and development.

Afternoon

Raffles Spa experience

After an energetic first half to the day, return to the sanctuary of Raffles for a rejuvenating experience in the Raffles Spa. A traditional Khmer massage is designed to restore balance, ease tension and leave you feeling relaxed and renewed.

Evening

Raffles gin experience & private night tour

It's time to join our resident Gin Butler at the legendary Elephant Bar for an immersive journey into the world of gin – from its multi-layered history and production secrets to a guided tasting of our locally-crafted Raffles Gin collection. If, after a busy day, you still have some energy left to explore, a private night tour will reveal Phnom Penh in a different light. As night falls, wander through illuminated streets, exploring the night markets and immersing yourself in the city’s after-dark charm.

DAY THREE

Morning

Central Market

Begin the day at the vibrant Central Market, an art-deco masterpiece buzzing with activity. Here you will discover rows of fresh produce, fragrant spices, local crafts and hidden gems while you experience the rhythm of daily life.

Afternoon

Afternoon tea with Princess Chansita

A memorable experience awaits with a private afternoon tea or Champagne o’Clock hosted by Her Royal Highness Princess Chansita, our ambassador – an elegant occasion to share cultural exchange and warm hospitality in regal company. This is more than a culinary treat – it’s a cultural experience steeped in tradition, elegance and heartfelt hospitality.

Evening

Culinary journey at Restaurant Le Royal

Choose between a meticulously crafted Traditional Khmer Menu, honouring royal recipes and the rich flavours of Cambodia, and our Modern Khmer Tasting Menu, reimagining heritage through a contemporary lens – each course a tribute to the kingdom's vibrant culinary legacy.

As part of its community outreach, Raffles Hotel Le Royal hosted an art competition for the vulnerable children supported by the charity Sunrise Cambodia. Entitled 'I Spy – the Magic of Raffles', the competition offered 25 young artists a creative platform to bring the magic of Raffles to life through their drawings. A half-day workshop was held at Sunrise Cambodia, mentored by artist Chhim Sothy, whose watercolour of the hotel can be seen at the top of the page. After visiting Raffles Hotel Le Royal, participants were given 40 days to complete their drawings. The five winning artworks were reproduced as postcards, one of which illustrates the Elephant Bar, above. The postcards are available for purchase in aid of Sunrise Cambodia.