Things To Do
in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, blending royal history with a dynamic modern scene. From the gilded Royal Palace to bustling riverfront markets, the city exudes energy and resilience. Visitors can reflect on Cambodia's recent history at Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields, then unwind with vibrant street food and coffee culture.
The tropical climate and riverine setting make Phnom Penh a rich hub for culture, cuisine, and river life all year round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the Royal Palace, where you can marvel at the stunning architecture and beautifully manicured gardens. After taking plenty of photos, visit the Silver Pagoda, which houses numerous priceless artifacts and offers insight into Cambodia's royal heritage. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, soaking in the ambiance of the city's bustling streets.
In the afternoon, make your way to the National Museum of Cambodia, where you can explore the rich history and culture of the Khmer civilization through its impressive collection of artifacts. Afterward, stroll along the riverside promenade, taking in the views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Khmer dishes like Fish Amok and Lok Lak.
As the sun sets, head to the night market, where you can browse local handicrafts and sample delicious street food. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, mingling with locals and fellow travelers while you taste delicacies like grilled skewers and fresh spring rolls. Wrap up your evening with a relaxing drink at a rooftop bar, soaking in panoramic views of the city skyline.
Start your day with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which was once a high school turned into a notorious prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. Take your time to reflect on the haunting exhibits that tell the tragic stories of the victims. A guided tour will provide context and deeper understanding of the atrocities that occurred here.
Continue your historical exploration with a trip to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located just outside the city. Here, you can pay your respects at the memorial stupa, which houses the skulls of victims, and walk through the somber grounds that reveal the horrors of the past. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant nearby, where traditional Khmer cuisine awaits.
Return to the city and unwind at one of Phnom Penh's many riverside restaurants. Enjoy a peaceful dinner while watching the boats drift by on the river, reflecting on the day's sobering activities. Consider treating yourself to a traditional Apsara dance performance, which beautifully showcases Cambodian culture through art and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕️Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛵Short ride (local transport) | $1-3 |
| 🍺Beer | $1-3 |
| 🧴One liter bottled water | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Vibrant street food and river life
- Relatively affordable for Southeast Asia
- Compact center playable on foot
- Heavy traffic and air pollution in peak hours
- Heat and humidity year-round
- Some sites require long drives outside the city
- Varied quality in tourist-oriented services
- "Chomreab suar" - Hello
- "Awkun" - Thank you
- "Sabai sabai?" - How are you?
- "Knyom sabay" - I am fine
- "Som tos" - Excuse me / Please
Places to Visit in Phnom Penh
Visit one of these nice places.
Gilded spires, ornate courtyards, and reflective ponds make for iconic Cambodian architecture.
Historic hilltop temple with city skyline views and narrow boulevards—great for portraits.
Golden hour reflections on the Mekong and lively riverside activity.
Vibrant street scenes, lanterns, and intricate storefronts.
Food in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant coconut curry steamed in banana leaves, often served with rice.
Must-Try!
Milder curry with potatoes, carrots, and chicken or beef.
Sliced marinated beef with peppery sauce, served with rice and a fried egg.
Khmer morning noodles with fish gravy and fresh greens (popular breakfast).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Art deco market offering fresh produce, street snacks, and souvenirs.
Market for fabrics, souvenirs, and a wide array of Cambodian street foods.
Casual spots with grilled meats, seafood, and local snacks along the riverfront.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered; remove shoes before entering temples; speak softly.
Ask permission before photographing individuals; avoid religious ceremonies without consent.
Bargaining is common; be friendly and respectful; use both hands when handing money.
Safety
Tipping in Phnom Penh
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (1-5 USD) for service at restaurants, drivers, and tour guides are appreciated but not mandatory. In upscale venues, rounding up or 5-10% is common.
Cash is widely used; USD and riel are accepted. Many places also take Visa/Mastercard; some smaller vendors prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and humid; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent heavy showers; humidity high; expect occasional flooding and proactive rain gear.
Less humidity and cooler evenings; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor photos; evenings can be chilly in air-conditioned venues.
Phnom Penh at Night
Hiking in Phnom Penh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic hill about 30-40 minutes from Phnom Penh offering temple ruins and sweeping views; a popular half-day hike.
Hilly green reserve about 1.5-2 hours from Phnom Penh; forest trails, waterfalls, and cooler air.
Airports
How to reach Phnom Penh by plane.
Main international gateway to Cambodia; located about 10-12 km west of the city center; taxis or ride-hailing services are common.
Major gateway to Angkor; about 320 km from Phnom Penh; frequent domestic and international flights connect.
Coastal gateway; farther from Phnom Penh but accessible by flight or land routes; often used for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority of residents; rich cultural and linguistic traditions.
Established diasporas with distinct shops and eateries; active in markets and business.
A mix of long-term residents and short-term visitors; English common in tourist areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and casual games are common in parks and schools.
Popular among youth; street basketball courts can be found around neighborhoods.
Traditional water festivals feature boat racing on the Tonlé Sap and Mekong.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Phnom Penh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Khmer options are widely available; ask for 'jay' (vegetarian) dishes and avoid fish sauce. Look for vegetable curries, tofu stir-fries, and markets with fresh produce. Many restaurants label vegetarian choices; for precise ingredients, ask to confirm no fish sauce or shrimp paste.