CAMBODIA
The 9 Best Things To See In Phnom Phen
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE
9 Best Things To See In Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is a city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re exploring its ancient temples, reflecting on its tragic past, or wandering its bustling streets, Phnom Penh has something to offer every traveler. Here are nine unmissable Things To See In Phnom Penh that will captivate you from start to finish.
1. The Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
One of the most iconic Things To See In Phnom Penh, the Royal Palace offers an awe-inspiring view of Cambodia’s regal history.
History
Built in the 1860s during the reign of King Norodom to house the Cambodian royal family. Still an active royal residence and site of coronations. Survived the Khmer Rouge era relatively intact.
Highlights: Throne Hall (royal ceremonies), Silver Pagoda (5,000+ silver floor tiles, Emerald Buddha, 90 kg solid-gold Buddha with 9,584 diamonds), Ramayana mural, beautiful gardens.
Location: Sothearos Blvd, near Riverside
Entry: $10 (includes Silver Pagoda)
Opening hours: 8:00–11:00 AM & 2:00–5:00 PM
Dress code: Shoulders & knees covered
The Silver Pagoda floor contains 5 tonnes of silver tiles—most are covered for protection, but a few are exposed.
Visit at 8 AM sharp to beat tour groups. Combine with National Museum (5-min walk). Best light for photos: 3–4 PM.
2. Choeung Ek Killing Fields
A somber reminder of Cambodia’s dark past—essential for understanding modern Cambodia.
History
1975–1979: Over 17,000 people executed here under Khmer Rouge. 129 mass graves discovered; 86 excavated with 8,985 bodies. Site turned into memorial after regime fell in 1979.
Highlights: 17-storey memorial stupa with 9,000+ skulls, bracelet tree, killing tree site, excellent audio guide (included).
Location: 15 km south of city centre
Entry: $6 (audio guide included)
Time needed: 2 hours
Bracelets are still left daily on the Killing Tree by visitors.
Visit after Tuol Sleng (same tuk-tuk $15–18 total). Go early (8 AM) or late afternoon. Bring water & tissues.
3. National Museum of Cambodia
World’s finest collection of Khmer sculpture—perfect companion to Angkor Wat.
History
Opened 1920 in stunning red-sandstone building by French architect George Groslier. Houses artifacts spanning 1,000+ years, many rescued from Angkor temples.
Highlights: 8-armed Shiva statue, Garuda statue, Angkor-period bronzes, peaceful courtyard with lotus pond.
Location: Next to Royal Palace
Entry: $10 (audio guide $3)
Opening hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
The museum survived the Khmer Rouge because they used it as a storage depot.
Visit 8–10 AM before heat. Photography allowed (no flash). Combine with Royal Palace (5-min walk).
4. Wat Phnom
The spiritual heart of Phnom Penh—where the city got its name.
History
Founded 1373 by Lady Penh who discovered four Buddha statues in the river and built a hill (phnom) to house them. Highest point in city at 27 m.
Highlights: Large seated Buddha, shrine to Lady Penh, resident monkeys, city views from top.
Location: Northern end of city centre
Entry: $1
Best time: Early morning or sunset
Phnom Penh literally means “Penh’s Hill”.
Combine with sunset at nearby rooftop bars. Watch your belongings—monkeys are cheeky thieves!
5. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)
Former prison where only 12 of ~20,000 prisoners survived—harrowing but essential.
History
High school turned into Security Prison 21. Prisoners photographed, tortured, forced to confess before being sent to Choeung Ek.
Highlights: 14,000+ victim photos, torture cells, survivor paintings, barbed-wire balconies.
Entry: $5 (audio $3)
Survivors: 2–3 still sell books daily
Only 12 survivors out of ~20,000 prisoners.
Visit first (8–11 AM), then Killing Fields. Audio guide highly recommended. Respectful silence—no photos of victims without permission.
6. Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung)
Best market for souvenirs, silk, and street food—authentic local vibe.
History
Established 1930s, nicknamed “Russian” in 1980s when Soviet expats shopped here.
Best buys: Silk scarves ($3–8), krama scarves, silver jewelry, handmade bags, pepper, coffee.
Food: Fresh spring rolls, noodle soups, tropical fruit stalls.
Location: Toul Tom Poung (south of city)
You can buy everything from fake Rolexes to motorbike parts in the same aisle.
Bargain hard (start at 50%). Go early (8 AM) for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
7. Central Market (Psar Thmei)
Stunning Art Deco yellow dome—iconic 1930s architecture.
History
Built 1937 in French colonial style. Massive central dome with four wings.
Best for: Jewelry, clothes, electronics, souvenirs, fresh food hall.
Location: City centre
The dome is one of the largest in Asia.
Best photos at sunrise when dome glows golden. Food hall opens 6 AM—try fresh baguettes.
8. Sisowath Quay (Riverside)
Phnom Penh’s vibrant waterfront—perfect for people-watching and nightlife.
Highlights
French colonial buildings, street food, bars, night market.
Food: BBQ skewers, fresh sugarcane juice, noodle stalls.
Nightlife: FCC, Le Moon rooftop, Bassac Lane speakeasies.
Riverside was completely abandoned during Khmer Rouge—now the heart of the city again.
Walk from Royal Palace to Night Market at golden hour. Grab a $2 Ang alltid beer at a riverside bar.
9. Sunset Cruise on the Mekong
Best city view in Southeast Asia—where four rivers meet.
Details
Cruise the confluence of Tonlé Sap, Mekong, and Bassac rivers.
Cost: $5–10 (1-hour cruise)
Departure: Titanic Restaurant dock, 5 PM daily
Includes: Free welcome drink on many boats
You can see four countries’ flags at the confluence point.
Book on the spot—no need to pre-book. Arrive 4:45 PM for best seats on upper deck.
Disclaimer: Information accurate as of November 2025. Prices in USD. Always check current opening hours and dress codes. Respect local customs—cover shoulders/knees at palaces and temples. Support local businesses and avoid giving money to children. Safe travels in Phnom Penh!