Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and has an intriguing history along with a vibrant energy which runs through its narrow streets. We sometimes hear from tourists who choose to skip over or simply pass through Phnom Penh, but we never understand why. We really do recommend Phnom Penh as a must see when travelling through Cambodia.
With everything from giant modern skyscrapers to hectic local markets and buildings from the French colonial era, you can find something which excites you. There is history and culture at every corner as well as high end restaurants and bars as the city continues to grow and modernise at a rapid rate.
What to see in Phnom Penh?
Simply put, Phnom Penh has a bit for everyone.
Recent History
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Phnom Penh is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S-21, this is a scene of some of the most horrific and brutal torture of victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Visiting definitely comes with a health warning but it gives you an appreciation of the traumatic recent history of the country. From here you may also want to go and see The Killing Fields which is where thousands upon thousands of bodies are buried in mass graves, also victims of the Khmer Rouge. There are many still unidentified victims and bodies continue to be unearthed. It is a stark reminder of Cambodia’s recent past and we highly recommend taking advantage of a local tour guide, many of whom will have lived through the turmoil of the civil war.
Markets
There are a huge range of markets in Phnom Penh which are truly hubs of local culture and commerce. Central Market (Psar Thmei) is an iconic Art Deco building offering everything from jewellery to clothing. The Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung) is known for its eclectic mix of antiques, souvenirs, and local foods. For a more local experience, visit the Central Market and the Orussey Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, meats, and traditional Cambodian goods. These markets are not just shopping destinations but also cultural experiences, reflecting the city’s bustling spirit and diverse offerings.
River Tours
Around sunset you will see many cruise ships leaving to go down the Mekong River, departing from the river bank close to the old market. These you can come with a variety of options; from simply a river cruise, others include food and drinks or even a party boat. It’s best to go around sunset and the cruises are very reasonably priced giving you a broader perspective of the sheer scale of the city.
Sports
Every weekend you will also find Kun Khmer boxing live in Phnom Penh. You can check the schedule out on Google and Facebook pages but the National TV Stadium is the most popular venue. These are fantastic events, often for very low price, with drinks and food readily available. Kun Khmer is very similar to Muay Thai but claims to be an older sport and attracts a lot of foreign fighters particularly from Eastern Europe. You might even be inspired to take one of the many local classes…
Additionally it is worth a visit to the Olympic stadium which was built ahead of the ASEAN games in 1963 which were not held due to political unrest. The stadium has gone through a redevelopment but maintains its stunning appearance, you may find a local or international football game being played there or many local people using the track and the surrounding areas for walks or runs later in the afternoon.
Key Monuments
The Victory Monument, or “Vimean Akareach,” stands as a prominent symbol of Cambodia’s independence and is an impressive landmark with its grand, modernist design reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe. Equally iconic is the Royal Palace, a stunning complex of traditional Khmer architecture that serves as the official residence of the Cambodian monarch. Within its grounds, the Silver Pagoda, renowned for its glittering floor made of silver tiles and its collection of precious artefacts, offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s royal and spiritual history. Both monuments reflect the grandeur and historical depth of Phnom Penh, making them must-visit sites for anyone exploring the city.
Where to eat and drink in Phnom Penh?
A popular area in Phnom Penh, tourists and locals will often head to Bassac Lane for an evening, where you will find a high concentration of western bars and restaurants serving good quality food. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, every night is a party there so make sure to take your best clothes.
If you’re interested in sky bars then there is no shortage of that in Phnom Penh. If you really want a treat then Sora has the most incredible viewing platform which looks over the city. Try to get there around sunset and you can see the sun disappear over the mountains in the distance and then circle back amazing views back around the capital city as it lights up at night.
There are amazing eateries throughout Phnom Penh; the local food stalls provide some amazing cuisine. There are also high end Western restaurants, with just about everything else in between.
What is driving like in Phnom Penh?
Driving around Phnom Penh can feel a bit overwhelming at times and compared to the rest of the country is certainly busier. But don’t let that put you off, the roads are relatively well organised and there are clear traffic lights and wide boulevards in many areas. Simply take your time, don’t get overconfident and try to avoid driving at night. When you hire your tuktuk with us we will give you a complete driving lesson to make sure you are fully confident before you hit the road.
What is the best way to reach Phnom Penh?
Getting to Phnom Penh can be relatively straightforward. You can get a coach from Ho Chi Minh City or a flight from various destinations into Phnom Penh international airport. The current airport is about a 20 to 40 minute drive outside of Phnom Penh depending on where your hotel is and there is easy cab hail and taxi options immediately outside the airport. However, a new airport is also being built and will be one of the world’s leading in terms of its size on the southern edge of the city. This will be further out and we’ll take a bit more time to get into the city with connections still to be confirmed. You’ll also find internal flights from Sihanoukville and from Siem Reap, as well as many bus and bus services from both of these destinations.
Phnom Penh also has Cambodia’s main rail station at the time writing there’s only two trains per day one goes to Battambang and the other to the south coast, ending at Sihanoukville. Both of these routes have one train that goes out in the morning and then one returns later in the afternoon.
Of course, we will always recommend tuktuk as the best way to travel around Cambodia 😉
Ready to make your Cambodian adventure unforgettable?
