2 Days in Phnom Penh Itinerary: A Slow & Meaningful Guide
This carefully designed Phnom Penh itinerary gives you the perfect balance of royal heritage, sobering history, riverside charm, and authentic local life. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this 2-day Phnom Penh itinerary allows you to experience the city at a respectful, unhurried pace.
Essential Information for Your Phnom Penh Itinerary
Best Time for this Phnom Penh Itinerary: November to February
Getting Around: Grab, tuk-tuks, and riverside walks
Daily Budget: $35–70 per person
Day 1 of Phnom Penh Itinerary – Royal Heart & Riverside
Location:
Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum & Sisowath Quay
History
The Royal Palace has been the heart of Cambodian monarchy since 1866. This first day of the Phnom Penh itinerary focuses on the city’s royal and cultural treasures.
Highlights
- Stunning Throne Hall and golden spires inside the Royal Palace
- Silver Pagoda with its magnificent silver-tiled floor
- World-class Khmer art at the National Museum
- Scenic sunset walk along Sisowath Quay
- Beautiful colonial architecture and river views
When to Go
Early morning for the Royal Palace, late afternoon for the riverfront.
Cost
Royal Palace: $10 • National Museum: $5
Dress Etiquette
Shoulders and knees covered (scarves available to borrow).
How to Get There
Walk or short tuk-tuk from central areas.
Day 2 of Phnom Penh Itinerary – History, Reflection & Local Life
Location:
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum → Killing Fields → Wat Phnom & Markets
History
The second day of this Phnom Penh itinerary focuses on Cambodia’s recent history and the resilience of its people.
Highlights
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial
- Wat Phnom – the hilltop temple that gave the city its name
- Psar Thmei (Central Market) and Russian Market
- Evening riverside stroll and night market
When to Go
Morning for memorial sites, afternoon/evening for markets and temples.
Cost
Tuol Sleng: $5 • Killing Fields: $6 • Wat Phnom: $1
Dress Etiquette
Modest clothing recommended at memorial sites.
How to Get There
Tuk-tuk or Grab for the morning memorials ($15–20 total).
Where to Stay for This Phnom Penh Itinerary
Budget Options ($12–30)
Stay near the river or Boeng Keng Kang for the best experience on this Phnom Penh itinerary.
Boutique & Mid-Range ($45–90)
Choose peaceful boutique hotels with pools to rest between days of your Phnom Penh itinerary.
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate (2026). This Phnom Penh itinerary is designed for respectful, slow-paced travel.