PHNOM PENH AT A GLANCE
CITY
Phnom Penh (ភ្នំពេញ)
COUNTRY
TIMEZONE
UTC+7 (ICT)
TRAIN
None
BUS
Phnom Penh City Bus (៛1500 KHR / $0.38 USD)
TERRAIN
Metropolitan Tropics
WEATHER
Cool Season: 75ºF - 95ºF November to April / Hot Season: 95ºF+ March to May / Monsoon Season: 75ºF - 90ºF and Rainy May to October
AVERAGE MEAL COST
៛20000 KHR / $5 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
៛25000 KHR / $6.25 USD
LAST UPDATED
05/12/2023
Top Experiences in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
The Best Bites in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital city of Cambodia, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and dynamic urban atmosphere. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonlé Sap rivers, Phnom Penh boasts a captivating riverfront and is home to the iconic Royal Palace and the spiritual center, Wat Phnom. The city holds a poignant place in Cambodia's history, marked by the sobering reminders of the Khmer Rouge regime, notably at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. Beyond its historical legacy, Phnom Penh offers a bustling market scene, lively street life, and a burgeoning arts and culinary scene, making it a captivating destination that blends tradition with modernity. The city's warm hospitality and the resilience of its people contribute to its unique charm, making Phnom Penh a multifaceted gem in Southeast Asia.
ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Visit the Royal Palace: Explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, a symbol of Cambodia's monarchy, featuring ornate architecture and beautiful gardens.
Discover Wat Phnom: Climb the hill to Wat Phnom, a historic Buddhist temple that offers panoramic views of the city.
Reflect at the Killing Fields: Visit the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center (Killing Fields) to understand Cambodia's tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime.
Explore Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Delve into the sobering history of the Khmer Rouge era at the Tuol Sleng Museum, formerly a prison.
Stroll along the Riverfront: Enjoy a leisurely walk along Sisowath Quay, lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering a picturesque view of the river.
Shop at Central Market: Browse through the bustling Central Market (Phsar Thmei) for a variety of goods, from souvenirs to local crafts.
Experience Street Food: Dive into the vibrant street food scene, sampling local delicacies at markets like Orussey Market or along the streets.
Attend Apsara Dance Performances: Immerse yourself in Cambodia's traditional Apsara dance performances, showcasing elegant and ancient dance forms.
Visit the National Museum: Explore the National Museum of Cambodia, home to an extensive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
Cruise the Mekong River: Take a boat cruise on the Mekong River, offering a scenic perspective of the city and its surroundings.
Explore Independence Monument: Admire the Independence Monument, an iconic landmark commemorating Cambodia's independence from French colonial rule.
Experience Phnom Penh Nightlife: Discover the city's vibrant nightlife with a visit to popular bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, particularly along Bassac Lane and Street 308.
Underrated Destinations
Silk Island (Koh Dach) Exploration: Venture beyond the city to Silk Island, located on the Mekong River. This serene island is known for its traditional silk weaving villages, providing an authentic and tranquil escape from the urban hustle. Visitors can witness the silk-making process, interact with local artisans, and purchase high-quality Cambodian silk products.
Art and Creativity at Sa Sa Bassac: Sa Sa Bassac is an independent art space in Phnom Penh that often goes under the radar. This contemporary art gallery promotes emerging Cambodian artists, hosting exhibitions, workshops, and events that showcase the country's vibrant art scene. It's a hidden gem for those seeking a deeper understanding of Cambodia's evolving cultural landscape.
Biking Tour of Phnom Penh's Hidden Gems: Explore the city on two wheels with a biking tour that takes you beyond the typical tourist spots. Discover hidden alleyways, lesser-known temples, and local neighborhoods, providing a more intimate and authentic experience of Phnom Penh. This activity offers a unique perspective on the city's daily life and lesser-explored gems.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Riverfront Area: The city is situated at the confluence of the Mekong, Bassac, and Tonlé Sap rivers. The riverfront area, especially along Sisowath Quay, is a prominent and lively part of the city, hosting various businesses, restaurants, and recreational spaces.
Central Business District (CBD): The central area of Phnom Penh is home to the CBD, where you'll find a concentration of businesses, government offices, and financial institutions. Major roads and boulevards intersect in this part of the city.
Royal Palace and Wat Phnom: The Royal Palace and the iconic Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple, are central landmarks that contribute to the city's layout. These historical and cultural sites are often focal points in the urban landscape.
Boulevards and Major Roads: Phnom Penh features several boulevards and major roads that help organize the city. Norodom Boulevard and Sihanouk Boulevard are two significant thoroughfares, with many businesses, shops, and government buildings lining these streets.
Residential and Commercial Districts: Beyond the central area, Phnom Penh has various residential and commercial districts. These neighborhoods cater to a mix of residential living, shopping, and entertainment.