How Much Does a Night Out in Cambodia Cost?
From neon-lit dance clubs to riverside beer joints, Cambodia’s nightlife is as diverse as it is affordable. Whether you’re partying in Phnom Penh’s edgy BKK1 district or sipping cocktails on Siem Reap’s Pub Street, understanding how much a night out in Cambodia costs helps you plan smart, have fun, and avoid blowing your travel budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down real 2025 prices for drinks, food, club entry, and transport tailored for budget backpackers, mid-range tourists, and luxury travelers alike.
General Nightlife Costs in Cambodia: What to Expect
Cambodia remains one of Southeast Asia’s most budget-friendly nightlife destinations. A typical night out ranges from $15 to $50, depending on where you go and how much you indulge.
| Destination | Estimated Nightlife Spend | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | $15 – $50+ | Big club scene, upscale options |
| Siem Reap | $10 – $40 | Mostly bars and street food |
| Sihanoukville | $15 – $45 | Beach bars and mid-range clubs |
Compared to neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia remains notably cheaper for beer, entry fees, and transportation. Inflation in 2025 has nudged prices slightly upward, but Cambodia still offers significant value for travelers (source).
Drink Prices Breakdown: Beer, Cocktails, and Spirits
Alcohol is one of the key reasons Cambodia attracts party lovers. Here’s what you can expect in 2025:
| Drink Type | Average Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Local Draft Beer | $0.50 – $1.50 | Cheaper during happy hour |
| Imported Beer | $2.50 – $3.50 | Depends on venue |
| Cocktails | $3.50 – $7.00 | Rooftop or club cocktails are pricier |
| Spirits + Mixer | $1.00 – $4.00 | Vodka, rum, whisky mixes |
| Glass of Wine | $4.00+ | Imported only |
| Bottle of Wine | $16.00 – $30.00 | Available at higher-end bars |
Happy hour deals (usually from 5 PM to 8 PM) often include buy-one-get-one-free offers or discounted cocktail menus. Many bars host Ladies’ Nights, especially in Phnom Penh, where women drink for free or at reduced prices.
Check real reviews and happy hour spots at TripAdvisor Cambodia Nightlife.
Entrance Fees and Bar Fines: Understanding Additional Costs
While most bars are free to enter, some nightclubs in Phnom Penh may charge small cover fees. If you’re visiting hostess or “girly” bars, it’s important to understand the extra costs.
Typical Additional Fees:
- Nightclub cover charges: $2 – $5 (waived with drink purchases in some venues)
- Bar fines (hostess bars): $10 – $30 (explained here)
- Lady drinks: $4.50 – $6 (small drinks bought for the hostess)
While these are common in nightlife hubs like Street 104, they don’t apply to casual beer gardens or rooftop lounges. If you’re on a tighter budget, avoid hostess bars or ask the staff upfront about any hidden costs.
Food and Snacks at Night: Typical Prices
No night out is complete without late-night eats. Fortunately, Cambodia offers plenty of delicious and affordable options after dark.
| Food Type | Price Range (USD) | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food Snacks | $1 – $3 | Grilled meats, fried noodles, fruit shakes |
| Bar Meals | $3 – $8 | Western and Khmer dishes |
| Upscale Dining | $10 – $20+ | Rooftop bars, riverside restaurants |
You’ll find $1 skewers and fried rice near nightlife zones, while more upscale venues like Eclipse Sky Bar offer international cuisine at higher prices.
Transportation and Miscellaneous Nightlife Expenses
Getting around at night is easy and cheap. Cambodia’s cities are small, and the cost of short-distance rides is very low compared to the West.
| Service | Typical Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk (short ride) | $1 – $4 | Negotiate or use app |
| Grab taxi (Phnom Penh) | $2 – $5 | Safer, fixed rates |
| Tips | Optional | $0.50 – $2 for good service |
| Misc. fees | ~$1 – $3 | Toilets, lockers, or late-night snacks |
Apps like Grab offer a safer and more predictable way to travel at night, especially in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Always confirm the fare before getting in a tuk-tuk if you’re not using an app.
Sample Night Out Budgets for Different Travelers
To help you plan based on your travel style, here’s a quick budgeting guide:
| Traveler Type | Estimated Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Traveler | $15 – $30 | Street food, local beer, tuk-tuk |
| Mid-range | $30 – $50 | Cocktails, club entry, Western food |
| Luxury | $50 – $100+ | Private table, bottle service, rooftop dinner |
Even at the luxury level, prices remain lower than in cities like Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City.
Popular Nightlife Areas and Their Price Ranges
Each nightlife zone in Cambodia has its own pricing tier. Here’s what you can expect:
| City | Area | Drink Prices | Entry Fees | Overall Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phnom Penh | BKK1 | $2 – $8 | $0 – $5 | Trendy, expat-focused |
| Phnom Penh | Street 104 / 136 | $1 – $4 | Mostly free | Hostess bars, karaoke |
| Phnom Penh | Riverside | $1.50 – $5 | Free | Laid-back, touristy |
| Siem Reap | Pub Street | $1 – $6 | Free | Backpacker hub |
| Sihanoukville | Ochheuteal Beach Bars | $2 – $6 | Free – $5 | Beach parties, DJs |
For a local’s perspective on Phnom Penh’s bar scene, check ExpatLifeCambodia.com, which offers regular updates on happy hours, expat lounges, and club promotions.
Conclusion
So, how much does a night out in Cambodia cost in 2025? Anywhere from $15 to $100+, depending on how you party. Whether you’re sipping $0.50 beer or dancing till dawn in a rooftop club, Cambodia offers excellent nightlife value across all budgets.
Smart planning, awareness of local customs, and tools like Grab or TripAdvisor nightlife guides will help you make the most of every night. From Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and beyond, Cambodia’s nightlife is alive, affordable, and absolutely worth experiencing.
Want personalized nightlife recommendations in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap? Visit ExpatLifeCambodia.com for insider tips and local guides.
