Top 7 Things to Do in Phnom Penh

What are the best things to do in Phnom Penh? When many travelers think of Cambodia, they immediately think of the temples of Angkor or the white sandy beaches of Kep. This is for a good reason, as these are places certainly worth a visit.

However, there are many fascinating things to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, and this intriguing city is well worth the time spent here. There is so much history in Phnom Penh, some good, some quite tragic. But if you enjoy shopping, history, delicious cuisine, and relaxing strolls along the river, Phnom Penh will have much to offer you.

Much more laid back than many Asian capitals, Phnom Penh is located along the banks of Cambodia’s two primary rivers, the mighty Mekong and the Tonle Sap.

Stroll Along Sisowath Quay

To get to what is considered the “center of things” for visitors, head to the promenade along Sisowath Quay, which winds for almost two miles (3 km) along the Tonle Sap River.

Sisowath Quay is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

One of the main attractions of Sisowath Quay is the stunning views of the river. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and enjoy the scenic views of the water and the city skyline. The quay is also a great place to watch the sun set over the river, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating and panoramic views.

You can entertain yourself all evening just strolling around this area. Here you will find some of Phnom Penh’s finest hotels and restaurants.

Sisowath Quay is also home to a number of historical landmarks. The Royal Palace, a complex of buildings that served as the residence of the Cambodian monarchs, is located just a short walk from the quay. Visitors can explore the palace grounds, which include stunning architecture, lush gardens, and the famous Silver Pagoda.

Another popular landmark on Sisowath Quay is the statue of King Norodom Sihanouk. The statue stands tall in the center of a traffic circle and is a symbol of the king’s legacy and contribution to the country. Visitors often stop to take photos with the statue, which is illuminated at night, making for a stunning sight.

In addition to the landmarks, Sisowath Quay is also a great place to experience Cambodian culture. Street vendors and performers can be found along the quay, selling everything from traditional handicrafts to tasty street food. Visitors can also watch traditional Cambodian dances and music performances, which take place regularly at the outdoor stage.

Sisowath Quay is also a hub for river transportation, with many boats departing from the nearby port. Visitors can take a river cruise or a ferry to nearby attractions, such as the silk island of Koh Dach or the Chroy Changvar peninsula.

Overall, Sisowath Quay is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phnom Penh. It offers a mix of historical landmarks, stunning river views, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Cambodian culture.

You can entertain yourself all evening just strolling around this area. Here you will find some of Phnom Penh’s finest hotels and restaurants. Locals, expats, and tourist flock to this area day and night for great dining, drinking, and entertainment.

Sisowath Quay begins near the large plaza across from the Royal Palace, one of the city’s main attractions. You should not miss touring the palace. It’s actually on Sothearos Blvd, just one block west of Sisowath Quay.

Take a Tour of the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built in the mid-19th century, the palace serves as the residence of the King of Cambodia and is an important symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

The Royal Palace complex covers an area of over 174,000 square meters and includes a number of buildings, gardens, and courtyards. The main building is the Throne Hall, which is used for official ceremonies and state functions. The hall is characterized by its stunning Khmer-style architecture and features intricate carvings, gilding, and colorful murals.

Another highlight of the palace complex is the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. This pagoda houses a collection of priceless Buddhist artifacts, including a life-sized gold Buddha statue, a crystal Buddha, and a small emerald Buddha statue. The floor of the pagoda is made of silver tiles, hence the name “Silver Pagoda.”

Visitors to the Royal Palace can also explore the stunning gardens and courtyards that surround the main buildings. The palace gardens are beautifully landscaped, with lush greenery, fountains, and ponds. One of the most popular areas is the Moonlight Pavilion, which was used for classical dance performances during the reign of King Sisowath.

In addition to the main attractions, the Royal Palace also has a museum that showcases various artifacts from Cambodia’s history and culture. The museum features exhibits on art, religion, and traditional ceremonies, giving visitors a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

Overall, the Royal Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phnom Penh. It offers a unique opportunity to explore Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage and experience the grandeur of the monarchy.

The stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and priceless artifacts make it one of the most impressive landmarks in the city, and a visit to the palace is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Cambodia.

The Cambodian king lives in the palace, but you can tour much of the palace complex daily from 7-11 AM and 2-5 PM. The entry fee is US$3.00. You cannot enter wearing shorts or tank-tops. Be sure to visit the Silver Pagoda, for which the palace complex is famous.

The Silver Pagoda

The Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is one of the most beautiful and unique attractions in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Located within the Royal Palace complex, this stunning pagoda houses a collection of priceless Buddhist artifacts and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.

One of the most impressive features of the Silver Pagoda is its floor, which is made entirely of silver tiles. The pagoda’s name comes from this feature, as the sparkling silver tiles give the interior a glittering appearance. Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering the pagoda to protect the delicate silver tiles.

The pagoda also houses a small emerald Buddha statue, which is believed to have been made in the 17th century and is a particularly sacred object to Cambodians.

Inside the Silver Pagoda, visitors can see a number of beautiful statues and artifacts. One of the most famous pieces is a life-sized gold Buddha statue, which is decorated with over 9,000 diamonds and is over 200 years old. The pagoda also houses a small emerald Buddha statue, which is believed to have been made in the 17th century and is a particularly sacred object to Cambodians.

In addition to the gold and emerald Buddha statues, the Silver Pagoda also contains a collection of other precious artifacts, including silver caskets and a golden Buddha statue adorned with diamonds and emeralds. These artifacts are displayed in glass cases around the pagoda, allowing visitors to get a closer look at their intricate details.

Overall, the Silver Pagoda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhist art and culture. The stunning silver-tiled floor, intricate statues, and priceless artifacts make it one of the most unique and impressive attractions in Phnom Penh.

Don’t Miss the National Museum

The National Museum in Phnom Penh, Cambodia is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Khmer art and artifacts. It was built in 1917 and is a beautiful example of traditional Khmer architecture.

The museum’s collection covers the history of Cambodia from the prehistoric period to the present day. The exhibits are arranged in chronological order, so visitors can easily follow the development of Khmer civilization over time. The museum’s galleries showcase a wide range of artifacts, including statues, ceramics, bronze objects, and jewelry.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Angkorian artifacts. Angkor was the capital of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The museum’s collection includes some of the most important artifacts from this period, such as statues of Hindu gods and goddesses, and the famous bronze statue of King Jayavarman VII.

The museum also has a large collection of artifacts from the pre-Angkorian period, including pottery, tools, and jewelry. These artifacts give visitors a glimpse into the daily life of the people who lived in Cambodia before the rise of the Khmer Empire.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase different aspects of Cambodian culture, from traditional music and dance to contemporary art.

The museum is well-maintained and has excellent facilities for visitors. There is a café on-site where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink, as well as a gift shop where they can purchase souvenirs and books about Khmer art and culture.

In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase different aspects of Cambodian culture, from traditional music and dance to contemporary art.

Overall, the National Museum in Phnom Penh is a fascinating and educational destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Cambodia. It is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region, and visitors are sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for the rich and vibrant culture of this amazing country.

After visiting the museum, head back over one block to Sisowath Quay and continue strolling through the street vendors, where you can enjoy a snack or a cool drink, or if it’s a mealtime, head to one of the many good restaurants along the boulevard. Prices are a little higher in this area, but the food is great and the service is good.

Get Great Bargains at the Central Market

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Phnom Penh, be sure to visit the Central Market.

The Central Market is housed in a striking Art Deco building that dates back to the 1930s. As you enter the market, you’ll be greeted by the sight and sound of hundreds of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to jewelry, clothing, and electronics. Take your time to explore the maze-like corridors of the market, where you’ll find all sorts of treasures at bargain prices.

One of the highlights of the Central Market is the abundance of beautiful Khmer silk products on offer. From scarves and sarongs to tablecloths and cushion covers, there’s no shortage of colorful and intricate designs to choose from. You’ll also find a range of other traditional Cambodian crafts, such as carved wooden statues and woven baskets.

But the Central Market isn’t just about shopping – it’s also a great place to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly vendors. Strike up a conversation with a vendor and learn about their life in Phnom Penh, or sample some of the delicious street food on offer.

Be sure to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities in this vibrant and colorful market.

See the Foreign Correspondent’s Club and other Nightspots

The Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, is a popular destination for journalists, tourists, and locals alike. The club has a rich history, having been founded in 1993 by journalists who were covering the Cambodian civil war, and has since become an iconic landmark in the city.

Located in a beautifully restored French colonial building, the FCC offers stunning views of the Mekong River and the Phnom Penh skyline. The club has a casual yet elegant atmosphere, with comfortable seating areas, a restaurant, and a bar. It is a popular spot for networking, socializing, and enjoying the views.

The club has a reputation for being a hub of intellectual and creative activity in Phnom Penh, and many journalists, writers, and artists have given talks or readings there over the years.

The FCC restaurant is known for its delicious food, which blends traditional Cambodian cuisine with international flavors. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic Cambodian soups and curries to Western-style burgers and sandwiches.

The club also offers a selection of cocktails, wines, and beers, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon or evening.

In addition to its restaurant and bar, the FCC also hosts regular events and talks on a variety of topics, including politics, culture, and journalism. The club has a reputation for being a hub of intellectual and creative activity in Phnom Penh, and many journalists, writers, and artists have given talks or readings there over the years.

One of the most unique aspects of the FCC is its connection to Cambodia’s history. The building that houses the club was originally built in 1917 as a mansion for the French governor of Cambodia, and it has witnessed many significant events in the country’s history.

During the Khmer Rouge regime, the building was used as a detention center, and many prisoners were held and tortured there.

Today, the FCC serves as a reminder of Cambodia’s past and the resilience of its people.

Overall, the Foreign Correspondents’ Club is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phnom Penh. Its stunning views, delicious food, and rich history make it one of the most unique and memorable attractions in the city.

Relax Your Mind at Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is a Buddhist temple and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The temple is located in the heart of the city, on top of a small hill that is said to be the founding place of Phnom Penh itself.

Wat Phnom’s architecture is a blend of Khmer and French colonial styles, with a grand entrance featuring a grand staircase and ornate dragon sculptures. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach the temple grounds, which are surrounded by lush gardens and shade trees. The temple is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and pray.

Inside the temple, visitors can see a variety of stunning Buddhist artwork and artifacts. One of the most impressive features is a large statue of Buddha, which is decorated with intricate carvings and surrounded by offerings from devotees. The temple also houses a number of smaller shrines and altars, each with its own unique style and decorations.

Wat Phnom has a rich history, and is said to have been founded in 1373 by Lady Penh, a wealthy widow who discovered several Buddha statues in the nearby river. She built a small shrine to house the statues, and the hill where the temple now stands became known as Phnom Penh, or “Lady Penh’s Hill.”

Inside the temple, visitors can see a variety of stunning Buddhist artwork and artifacts. One of the most impressive features is a large statue of Buddha.

Today, Wat Phnom is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple grounds, explore the beautiful gardens, and learn more about Cambodia’s rich Buddhist heritage. The temple is also a hub of activity during the Khmer New Year, when locals come to pray and make offerings to the gods.

Overall, Wat Phnom is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Phnom Penh. Its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and rich history make it one of the most unique and memorable attractions in the city.

The entry fee is US$1.00 and tickets can be purchased at the booth at the foot of the stairs that lead up to the pagoda.

Pay Your Respects at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Like the Killing Fields at Cheung Ek, the Tuol Sleng Museum is a very emotional place to visit. In fact, it is a harrowing experience. But I felt is was important to pay respects to the many people who suffered so greatly there.

Also known as S-21, Tuol Sleng is a former high school turned into a prison and interrogation center during the Khmer Rouge regime. It serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the dark period of Cambodian history, from 1975 to 1979.

The museum is located in a quiet neighborhood in central Phnom Penh and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi. Visitors are greeted by the tall walls and barbed wire fence.

The Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot, was responsible for the deaths of an estimated 2 million people through execution, starvation, and forced labor. Tuol Sleng was just one of the many prisons and killing fields where people were taken to be tortured and executed. It is estimated that around 17,000 people passed through Tuol Sleng, and only a handful survived.

The museum is located in a quiet neighborhood in central Phnom Penh and is easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi. Visitors are greeted by the tall walls and barbed wire fence that surround the compound. The entrance fee is $8, and visitors are given an audio guide and a map of the site.

The museum consists of four main buildings. Building A is the first stop and houses the exhibition of photographs of the victims who were imprisoned and executed at Tuol Sleng. These photos are the only record of the prisoners who passed through Tuol Sleng, and they serve as a reminder of the human toll of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Building B and C are where the prisoners were held and tortured. The rooms have been left largely untouched, with the original metal bed frames and shackles still in place. Visitors can see the tiny cells where prisoners were held in solitary confinement and the larger rooms where they were interrogated and tortured.

Overall, visiting Tuol Sleng Museum is a sobering and educational experience. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and acknowledging the past to prevent similar atrocities from happening in the future.

Building D is the memorial stupa that was built to honor the victims of Tuol Sleng. The stupa contains the skulls of some of the victims, arranged by gender and age. It is a somber and emotional experience to see the skulls and to realize the scale of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Tuol Sleng Museum serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and acknowledging the past to prevent similar atrocities from happening in the future.

Overall, visiting Tuol Sleng Museum is a sobering and educational experience.

It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and acknowledging the past to prevent similar atrocities from happening in the future. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Cambodia’s history and the impact of the Khmer Rouge regime on the country and its people.

There you have it! These are my 7 highly recommended things to do in Phnom Penh. The city has much to offer you if you’re looking for a calmer, more relaxing environment to enjoy for a few days. Take the opportunity to get in some great shopping, taste some delicious food, and meet some awesome people.