1. Overview
As the vibrant capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh has a harmonious combination of royal heritage, spiritual depth, and modern life. Once known as the “Pearl of Asia,” this city is both a reminder of the glorious past and a reflection of the resilient spirit of the Khmer country. With the list of things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia, visitors will easily find memorable experiences, from the magnificent palace and historical museum to the vibrant riverside markets.
2. Suggestions for top 10 best things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia
2.1 Visit the Royal Palace
Visiting this place is one of the priority activities when mentioning things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia. The Royal Palace is a symbol of the power and majesty of the Cambodian royal family, located prominently on the banks of the Tonle Sap River.
With a large campus, brilliant yellow tiled roofs, and traditional Khmer architecture, it creates a magnificent scene. The quiet space and shady green trees further enhance the sacredness of this architectural complex.
Inside the campus is the Silver Pagoda, which houses many precious Buddha statues made of gold, silver, and precious stones. This is a must-see stop for those who love culture and history.
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 11:00, 14:00 – 17:00
- Ticket price: 10 USD
- Address: Sothearos Blvd, Phnom Penh
Royal Palace – Symbol Of The Kingdom Of Cambodia (Source: Internet)
2.2. Learn about history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Tuol Sleng used to be a school but was converted into the notorious S-21 prison under the Khmer Rouge. Today, this place has become a museum to commemorate the victims of the genocide.
The museum displays portraits, torture instruments, and historical documents to help visitors better visualize the crimes that occurred. Each prison cell is living proof of the pain that the Cambodian people once suffered.
The atmosphere here is quiet and haunting, suitable for those who want to deeply understand the dark past of this country. This is a humane and strongly awakening experience.
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
- Ticket price: 5 USD
- Address: St 113, Phnom Penh
2.3. Visit Choeung Ek Killing Fields
If you are a person who likes dark tourism and does not know what things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia, Choeung Ek Killing Fields will be the right place for you. This is a memorial to more than 17,000 victims murdered under the Khmer Rouge regime.
The highlight is the memorial stupa with thousands of skulls preserved as evidence of the genocide.
The visit is not for the faint-hearted but is an important experience for understanding the brutality of war. Visitors often choose to go with an audio tour to hear eyewitness accounts and detailed descriptions.
- Address: 7 km south of Phnom Penh
- Ticket price: 6 USD (including audio commentary)
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:30
2.4. Visit Wat Phnom
Wat Phnom is an ancient temple located on a high mound, considered the starting point of the formation of Phnom Penh city. The temple has traditional Khmer architecture with curved roofs and sophisticated motifs.
Visitors can climb the hill via stone steps to the main hall to worship Buddha and learn about the legend of the noblewoman Penh. The sacred space combined with the green landscape creates a sense of serenity.
The area around Wat Phnom is also an ideal place to stroll, especially in the afternoon when locals come to pray and relax. This is a stop with many spiritual and cultural elements.
- Opening hours: 07:00 – 18:30
- Ticket price: 1 USD
- Address: Street 96, Phnom Penh
Wat Phnom is a cultural and spiritual symbol of the capital Phnom Penh, Cambodia. (Source: internet)
2.5. Shopping and enjoying cuisine at Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
Central Market is the most famous market in Phnom Penh, built during the French period with a distinctive yellow dome. This is an ideal place to experience local life and shop for souvenirs that cannot be missed in the list of things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia.
Inside the market, there are all kinds of items, from gold and silver jewelry and clothes to electronics and delicious street food. The lively and friendly atmosphere makes the visit interesting.
Even if you don’t buy anything, visitors can still feel the typical trading culture of the Khmer people. The market is also a great place to try traditional dishes at reasonable prices.
- Opening hours: 07:00 – 18:00
- Address: Kampuchea Krom Blvd (St 128), Phnom Penh
Phsar Thom Thmei, Phnom Penh is the largest domed market in Southeast Asia. (Source: internet)
2.6. Stroll the Phnom Penh Night Market
The Phnom Penh Night Market is a vibrant destination for those who love shopping, food, and experiencing local culture. The market bustles at night with many stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and cheap fashion items.
Street food is the highlight here with grilled dishes, seafood, juices, and traditional Khmer food. Visitors can enjoy food and drink while enjoying live music from local artists.
The friendly and cheerful atmosphere makes the market an ideal gathering place for both locals and tourists. This is also a good place to practice your bargaining skills and find unique items.
- Address: Preah Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh
- Opening hours: 17:00 – 23:00, Friday to Sunday
- Admission: Free
2.7. Explore contemporary art at local galleries
Phnom Penh is becoming a vibrant hub for contemporary art with many interesting galleries. Exploring local galleries is also an interesting activity on the list of things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia – a great opportunity to learn about the development of contemporary Khmer art.
You will admire a variety of art forms, from painting and sculpture to photography and installation. The works often bear the imprint of indigenous culture while expressing new perspectives on society and life.
Some suggested galleries include FT Gallery (address: 83 Street 178, Phnom Penh), Sra’Art Studio (address: 2E Street 244, Phnom Penh), and Romchiek Gallery (address: St 178, Phnom Penh). Opening hours are usually from 10:00 to 18:00, and entrance fees may be free or a small fee depending on the gallery.
2.8. Cruise on the Mekong River at sunset
Experiencing a cruise on the Mekong River at sunset is one of the activities that cannot be missed when mentioning things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the sparkling city lights from a completely different perspective.
The river cruise brings a sense of relaxation and peace as you watch the sun gradually set below the horizon, creating a colorful picture. This is the ideal moment to relax, take pictures, and feel the slow pace of life of the city on the legendary river.
Most cruises offer dinner with typical Cambodian dishes and a variety of drinks. Some ships also have live music or traditional Apsara dance performances, providing a unique cultural experience.
You can refer to some ships such as the Phnom Penh Sunset Cruise or the Kanika. The reference price is about $10 – $25 (only sightseeing) or $35 – $60 (including dinner); the trips usually depart from 17:00 to 17:30 daily and last about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Watching the sunset on the Mekong River cruise in Phnom Penh. (Source: internet)
2.9. Stroll along the river at Sisowath Quay
Sisowath Quay is a bustling riverside boulevard, ideal for strolling, enjoying the breeze, and enjoying the view of the Mekong River. This area is home to many cafes, restaurants, and vibrant local markets.
In the evening, the air becomes cool, and people and tourists flock here to relax, exercise, or sit and watch the sunset. Sisowath Quay is also close to the Royal Palace and the National Museum, making it convenient to combine many attractions.
- Address: Riverside, downtown Phnom Penh
2.10. Join a Khmer cooking class
Your list of things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia will become more interesting and complete with a cooking class that will help you gain a deeper understanding of Cambodian culinary culture. Students are often taken to the local market to choose ingredients and then return to the kitchen to cook with the chef.
You will learn how to make traditional dishes such as Amok, Khmer sour soup, or coconut desserts. The class usually lasts 2 – 3 hours with a fun and friendly atmosphere.
This is an ideal experience for those who love food and want to bring a little taste of Khmer home.
- Suggested location: La Table Khmère Cooking Class – Street 278
- Ticket price: About 20 – 30 USD/person
- Class time: Morning (09:00) or afternoon (14:00)
3. Conclusion
Although not too large, Phnom Penh offers a rich journey of discovery, blending the past and the present. From the golden palaces and profound historical relics to the poetic riverside life and authentic Khmer cuisine, the Cambodian capital will certainly leave a special mark on every visitor.
The list of best things to do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, above will be a useful guide for your trip. Join Asia Luxury Travel to enjoy the most complete and experienced journey.
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