Things To Do
in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city of Cambodia, sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, embodying a fascinating blend of traditional Khmer and French colonial architecture. This bustling city is steeped in history and culture, home to significant landmarks such as the opulent Royal Palace, the National Museum holding vast collections of Khmer artifacts, and the tragic, poignant Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum.
Despite its tumultuous past, Phnom Penh exudes a charm, with bustling markets, thriving arts scenes, and a waterfront alive with restaurants and bars, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
- "Soksabai?" - How are you?
- "Arun sua" - Good morning
- "Orkun" - Thank you
- "Som tos" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Chhnang" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace, where you can admire the stunning architecture and the Silver Pagoda. Take your time strolling through the lush gardens surrounding the palace.
In the afternoon, head to the National Museum to immerse yourself in Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy viewing the impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
Conclude your day with a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. Catch beautiful views of the city skyline while enjoying dinner on board.
Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to learn about Cambodia's tragic history. The museum is deeply moving and provides clear insights into the Khmer Rouge regime.
After lunch, take a somber visit to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, also known as the Killing Fields. Here, you can pay your respects and understand the sorrowful past of the country.
Spend your evening at Sisowath Quay, where you can stroll along the riverside promenade. Enjoy a meal at one of the numerous nearby restaurants with riverside views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks and temples.
- Vibrant food scene offering both local and international cuisine.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Friendly locals and a growing expat community.
- A developing economy with increasing opportunities for business and investment.
- Traffic congestion can be a significant issue.
- Limited infrastructure and public transportation options.
- Air quality can be poor due to pollution.
- Healthcare facilities may not meet the standards of more developed countries.
- Political instability and occasional protests can create an uncertain environment.
Best Activities in Phnom Penh
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the Cambodian royal family.
Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River and take in the scenic views of Phnom Penh.
Experience the tranquility of this historic temple and enjoy the lush greenery of the surrounding park.
Discover local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food while exploring this bustling market.
Gain insight into Cambodia's history at these important historical sites, and pay respects to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Tours
Uncover the best of Phnom Penh with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Phnom Penh
Visit one of these nice places.
A Buddhist temple with panoramic views of the city
Exquisite architecture and gardens with great photo opportunities
Scenic views and beautiful sunsets over the river
Rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views of the city and river
Panoramic views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers
Food in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves, typically made with freshwater fish and flavored with lemongrass, kaffir lime, and coconut milk. Try it at Romdeng or Malis restaurant.
Must-Try!
Stir-fried marinated beef served with a tangy dipping sauce, often accompanied by fresh vegetables and rice. Sample this dish at Sovanna BBQ or Khmer Surin Restaurant.
Rice noodle dish commonly served with a fish-based green curry gravy and an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables. Look for it at the Central Market or street food vendors.
A comforting noodle soup containing pork, chicken, or seafood, garnished with fresh herbs, garlic, and lime. Visit Kuy Teav Phnom Penh for an authentic taste.
A popular breakfast dish featuring thinly sliced pork marinated in coconut milk and garlic, served with rice and pickled vegetables. Enjoy it at local market stalls or eateries like T'Uk T'Uk Noodle and Boribo Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Phnom Penh better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can savor an array of street food delicacies such as grilled meats, spring rolls, and sweet treats like coconut pancakes and mango sticky rice.
This vibrant night market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide selection of grilled seafood, skewers, Khmer soups, and traditional snacks.
Indulge in a diverse range of Khmer street food including noodle soups, barbecue skewers, and tropical fruit shakes amidst the lively atmosphere of this market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cambodia, it is respectful to greet people with a traditional Cambodian gesture called a Wai, which involves pressing your palms together and slightly bowing your head.
Respect for elders is a significant cultural norm in Cambodia. It is important to address older individuals with the appropriate titles and show deference in speech and action.
When visiting temples or certain formal settings, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, covering the shoulders and knees. This demonstrates cultural sensitivity and regard for local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Phnom Penh with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Phnom Penh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for other services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not obligatory.
In Phnom Penh, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, high-end restaurants, and some stores, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments or local markets. Some places may also accept payments via digital wallets or mobile payment apps.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Phnom Penh.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. The countryside is lush and green, and the rain is usually in short, heavy bursts.
Expect pleasant, cooler temperatures with low humidity. This is a popular time for tourists to visit.
Expect hot and dry weather with temperatures reaching their peak. It's a good time for water activities and exploring indoor attractions.
Phnom Penh at Night
Hiking in Phnom Penh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located about 30 km from Kampot, offering numerous hiking trails with stunning views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Located roughly 120 km from Phnom Penh, Kirirom National Park features pine forests, scenic hills, and several hiking paths, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
This park is well known for its cool climate, mountainous terrain, and unique flora and fauna, located approximately 120 km from Phnom Penh.
About 100 km from the capital, this sanctuary offers hiking opportunities amidst dense forests and is home to various wildlife species.
Located around 70 km from Phnom Penh, Tat Mok offers trails leading to the summit, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Phnom Penh through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Phnom Penh by plane.
The main international airport serving Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
The main international airport serving Siem Reap, Cambodia, close to Angkor Wat.
An international airport serving Sihanoukville, Cambodia, located about 230 km from Phnom Penh.
A small international airport serving Koh Kong, Cambodia, approximately 250 km from Phnom Penh.
A domestic airport with limited international flights, located about 300 km from Phnom Penh.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Cambodia, comprising around 90% of the population in Phnom Penh.
A significant minority group, many of whom have lived in Cambodia for generations.
An important ethnic minority with a long history of trade and commerce in Cambodia.
An ethnic group descended from the Champa kingdom, primarily Muslim, residing in Phnom Penh and surrounding areas.
Includes various smaller indigenous and immigrant communities, such as the Lao, Thai, and various ethnic minorities from neighboring countries.
The Soul of Phnom Penh
Discover the essence of Phnom Penh through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Phnom Penh, with many local clubs and a passionate following among fans.
A traditional Cambodian martial art that combines physical fitness with self-defense techniques, gaining popularity in recent years.
Widely played among the youth in Phnom Penh, with numerous courts available in schools and community areas.
A popular recreational sport, often played in parks and during community events.
Played both recreationally and competitively, with various tournaments held in the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phnom Penh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Phnom Penh caters increasingly well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering innovative plant-based dishes. Look for dedicated vegetarian eateries or those emphasizing farm-to-table and organic ingredients.
While traditional Cambodian cuisine does contain gluten, you can find establishments in Phnom Penh, particularly cafes and bakeries, providing gluten-free alternatives such as rice-based dishes, salads, and baked goods made from alternative flours like tapioca or rice.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Phnom Penh with these cultural adventures.
