Phnom Penh Itinerary – 17 of the Best Things to do

Phnom Penh is one of Southeast Asia’s most underrated capitals, with a fascinating blend of history, culture, and modern energy. While many travelers rush through the capital on their way to Angkor Wat, I’m here to tell you they are missing out.

Those who take the time to explore will find a city filled with a grand palace, historical sites, and a thriving food scene. From the lavish Royal Palace to uncovering Cambodia’s tragic past at Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom Penh tells a story of resilience and transformation.

Add in bustling markets, scenic riverside views, and some of the best street food in the region, and you have a destination that deserves more than just a passing visit. Here’s a Phnom Penh Itinerary with 17 of the best things to do in Phnom Penh Cambodia.

Brief History of Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh was founded in the 14th century, according to legend, when a wealthy widow named Lady Penh discovered four Buddha statues inside a tree trunk floating on the Tonle Sap River. She placed them on a small hill (“phnom” means hill in Khmer), and a temple—Wat Phnom—was built, giving the city its name.

In 1866, Phnom Penh became the capital of Cambodia under King Norodom, replacing Oudong. While under French colonial rule for nearly 100 years (1863–1953), the city underwent rapid development, with wide boulevards, colonial buildings, and modern infrastructure earning it the nickname “Pearl of Asia.”

However, Phnom Penh’s history took a dark turn in the 1970s when the Khmer Rouge, led by Pol Pot, took control. In 1975, the city was forcibly evacuated, and its residents were sent to the countryside for forced labor.

The brutal Khmer Rouge Regime resulted in the deaths of nearly two million people. Phnom Penh remained largely abandoned until the fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979.

Since then, Phnom Penh has rebuilt itself, emerging as a dynamic city that balances its past with rapid modernization. Today, it is Cambodia’s political, economic, and cultural hub, offering travelers a glimpse into both its tragic history and hopeful future.

Is Phnom Penh Worth Visiting?

Siem Reap and the Angkor Wat Complex get all of the attention in Cambodia for it’s ancient history and 800 year old temples swallowed up by the jungle.

But Phnom Penh is an incredible city with a mix of Cambodian traditions and an evolving urban lifestyle. Although its history is quite dark, it’s important to see and learn about its past. It’s a city with depth and character and Phnom Penh is definitely worth visiting!

How many days in Phnom Penh

I think spending 2-3 days in Phnom Penh will give you enough time to cover the main attractions of the city while still allowing you to enjoy it at a relaxed pace.

Overview of Things to do in Phnom Penh

There’s a lot to do and see in Phnom Penh but here is a list of things to do for each day you spend there. I’ve put the most popular and important things on the first day, some cultural sites on the second day, and if you choose to spend a third day in Phnom Penh, there are some day trips you can take that are just outside the city.

Day 1: Tuol Sleng Genocidal Museum & Choeung Ek (Killing Fields), Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda, Wat Ounalom Monastery, Sisowath Quay, Sunset cruise on the Mekong River, Night Market
Day 2: National Museum of Cambodia, Wat Phnom, Central Market, Independence Monument, Street 240
Day 3: Silk Island Tour, Wildlife Rescue Center, Tonle Bati, Russian Market

What to know before you go to Phnom Penh

Here’s some important information for traveling in Cambodia for you to take note of as you plan your trip to this Southeast Asia country.

Money in Cambodia

Cambodia’s currency is the Riel but American U.S. Dollars are widely used as well. You’ll find most restaurants accept credit cards but you should have some cash for markets and vendors.

There are ATMs throughout the city but be aware that if there is anything wrong with the money, it won’t be accepted. The money cannot have a tear, be really old, dirty, nothing. It needs to be in pristine condition. If not, you’re bringing it home with you.

Language in Cambodia

Language: Khmer is the country’s official language and most of the population speaks it. However, a lot of Cambodians speak at least a little English so you shouldn’t have a problem communicating. You may hear other languages such as Vietnamese and Thai as well.

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh has a wet season and a dry season but because Cambodia has a tropical climate, it stays pretty hot and humid throughout the year.

The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to February when the temperatures are also not too hot. Temperatures will range from about 72-86° (22-30°C). The downside is that it’s also the peak tourist season so places will be busier and hotels will be slightly more expensive.

Getting around the city

Southeast Asia countries are known for their tuk-tuks and it’s the most popular way to get around there. It’s affordable, around $1-$3 for a short ride and $5-$10 for longer rides, and they are available everywhere. Don’t forget to haggle!

Cambodia does not have Uber or Lyft but they do have their own version of it called Grab. You typically won’t haggle but you will be getting a fair price and won’t have to worry about scams.

Phnom Penh is a major city and it’s sites are spread out. While you can walk to some of the sites, most will require you to get transportation. Otherwise, you’ll spend the majority of your day walking in the hot sun and won’t get to see much.

If you’re staying at a hostel or guesthouse, you’ll find they have bicycles you can use or rent for around $2-5 for the day. This is a great option for exploring some of the quieter areas of the city such as Silk Island but probably not the best for busy areas in the city.

You can hire a private car for the day to drive you to the sites that are further away outside the city. The cost for hiring a driver for the day will be run between $30-$60 for the day, depending on the size of vehicle and your itinerary.

Your final option, which is the cheapest, is to take the Public Bus. It will cost around $.40 a ride but the routes are limited, the buses are crowded, and you’l have to learn which routes go to certain destinations. I don’t recommend doing this but I’m including it in case you’re staying in Phnom Penh for a while.

Safety in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, you do have to be aware of your surroundings. Violent crime is very rare but you will need to watch out for petty crime.

Keep an eye on your bags, especially in popular areas that are crowded such as the Russian Market and the Riverside. Try not to keep your wallet or phone in your backpocket because you do have to watch for pickpockets.

When you’re walking around, avoid holding your phone out because it could be snatched right out of your hands by a passing motorbike. Same goes with your purse and camera. If you don’t have it secured around your neck, it could easily be grabbed out of your hands.

Even if you’re sitting in a tuk-tuk, make sure your bags are not sitting on the outside edge of the seat because someone on a passing motorbike could easily grab it and take off.

And like anywhere you want to avoid poorly lit areas at night. Stick to well-lit streets. If you’re out at a bar, watch your drink. Never leave it unattended because it could get spiked.

None of these petty crimes are unique to Phnom Penh but it’s just a good reminder of what to watch out for when you’re traveling.

How to spend 1 day in Phnom Penh

If you only have one day to spend in Phnom Penh, this is the itinerary for you. It will be jam packed with historical sites that explore Phnom Penh’s history mixed with some time for fun and relaxation in the evening.

*NOTE: The Tuol Sleng Genocidal Museum is located in Phnom Penh while the Killing Fields are located about 15 minutes away by car. You can choose to visit both as a tour but it’s not necessary.

Except for the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocidal Museum, all of the other places on the 1 day Phnom Penh itinerary are within a 20 minute walking distance of each other. You could skip trying to find transportation to those places if you want and just walk it.

The Choeung Ek Killing Fields

Learn all about the dark history of Cambodia that occurred between 1975 and 1979 when over 1 million people lost their lives due to the brutal Khmer Rouge regime. Thousands of people, many of them intellectuals and proffessionals were brought here to be executed only after enduring being tortured at Tuol Sleng Prison.

Visitors can walk through the mass grave sites and listen to an audio guide detailing survivor stories and historical accounts. There is a Buddhist stupa here filled with over 8,000 human skulls, a reminder of this tragic part of Cambodian history.

Tuol Sleng Genocidal Museum

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, also known as S-21 Prison, is a former high school that was transformed into a brutal detention center during the Khmer Rouge regime. Under Pol Pot’s rule, around 20,000 people were imprisoned, tortured, and forced to confess to crimes they never committed before being sent to the Killing Fields for execution.

The museum has been preserved in its original state with prison cells, interrogation rooms, and photographs of victims displayed as a reminder of the atrocities committed. While difficult to visit, Tuol Sleng is an important historical site in Cambodia that serves as a reminder of the consequences of extremist ideology.

You can either take a tour with a guide who is knowledgeable about the history to the Killing Fields and then visit Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, or get a tuk-tuk or Grab and go on your own.

Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

The Royal Palace is one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks and has served as the residence of Cambodia’s royal family since the 1860’s. The palace features traditional Khmer architecture with spires, intricate carvings and beautiful gardens.

Visitors can explore several sections including the Throne Hall, where official ceremonies are held and the Moonlight Pavilion, often used for performances. Other buildings to visit include the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Royal Dining Hall, and a French building that was a gift from Napoleon III.

Located within the Royal Palace complex is the Silver Pagoda, one of Cambodia’s most treasured religious sites. It gets its name from the 5,000 silver tiles covering the temple floor.

Inside the pagoda is an impressive collection of Buddhist relics, including a life-sized Buddha statue made of solid gold and adorned with 9,584 diamonds. There is also an Emerald Buddha believed to be made of Baccarat crystal.

Wat Ounalom Monastery

Wat Ounalom is one of the most important temples in Phnom Penh, serving as the spiritual headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism. The temple was originally built in 1443 and has over 40 structures, including pagodas, shrines, and monk residences.

It supposedly contains a sacred eyebrow hair of the Buddha, which gives the temple its name: “Ounalom” means eyebrow in Khmer. Visitors can explore the grounds, murals, and climb to the upper levels for panoramic views of the city.

Wat Ounalom does remain a center for Buddhist learning for monks and devotees so it’s a great way to get an inside look at Cambodia’s religious traditions.

Sisowath Quay

The Sisowath Quay is a 3km long riverside promenade stretching along the Tonle Sap River and it has some of the best views in Phnom Penh. It’s lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax.

In the evening the area really comes alive with street performers, food vendors, and a big social atmosphere. You’ll find The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda as well as the National Museum and Wat Ounalom located along the Sisowath Quay as well.

Sunset Cruise on the Mekong River

Visitors can take a scenic Mekong River cruise from the quay, offering a unique perspective of Phnom Penh’s skyline and nearby floating villages. You’ll find all kinds of different cruises to choose from along the Sisowath Quay including dinner cruises.

No need to book ahead of time unless you have a very specific cruise in mind. Generally you can just walk up to the boat and book your seat right there. However, you may need to book a dinner cruise in advance, at least a few hours before.

Phnom Penh Night Market

Located near the Riverside, the Phnom Penh Night Market is a great place to explore for that perfect souvenir from Cambodia. You’ll find a mix of clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs all at bargain prices.

Don’t skip the street food section where you can enjoy Khmer delicacies like grilled meats, fresh seafood, and sticky rice desserts. It’s a great place to experience Phnom Penh’s nightlife without the bar scene.

Are you brave enough to try one of the deep fried insects?

2 Day Phnom Penh Itinerary

If you have 2 days in Phnom Penh, you can explore a little more of the Cambodian history and culture plus hit one of Phnom Penh’s famous streets.

National Museum of Cambodia

The National Museum of Cambodia is the country’s largest and most important museum, housing an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts. It’s located near the Royal Palace and even the museum’s traditional red terracotta structure is an example of Cambodian architecture.

There are thousands of exhibits inside including ancient sculptures, bronze and wooden statues, and centuries old ceramics. There’s even a massive Vishnu statue from the 6th century along with relics from the Angkor Wat temple complex.

Wat Phnom

Sitting atop the only hill in the city is Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh’s most famous temple. It’s believed that the temple was originally built in 1372 by Lady Pehn, who discovered sacred Buddha statues in the river and placed them on the hill.

The temple has been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries but it remains an important place of worship where locals come to pray for good fortune.

Visitors will find intricate carvings, lush gardens, and panoramic views of the city below.

Central Market (Phsar Thmey)

The Central Market is one of Phnom Penh’s most recognizable landmarks, known for its unique art deco dome and bright yellow exterior. Built in 1937, this market is one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs.

You’ll find everything from jewelry, electronics, clothing, and local produce. There’s food stalls where dishes like fried noodles and tropical fruit shakes are available.

Independence Monument

The Independence Monument was built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France. It’s designed in the same style as an Angkorian temple, resembling a lotus-shaped stupa.

You can visit it 24 hours a day and at night the monument is illuminated and it makes for a really nice photo.

Street 240

Just behind the Royal Palace is a tree lined street with French colonial buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. You’ll find bars, wine shops, bookstores, and many Cambodian handicrafts.

If you’re wanting to purchase silk, Street 240 has plenty of shops that sell silk fabric, throws, silk scarves, and more. You’ll also find eco-conscious goods, vegan cafes, jewelry stores, and even a spa.

3 Day Phnom Penh Itinerary

If you have 3 days in Phnom Penh, you can add in 1-2 things to your itinerary that are just outside the city. Or spend your day exploring a few more places in Phnom Penh and take some time to relax in the evening.

Silk Island Tour

A visit to Silk Island, located just a short ferry ride from the city, will give you a glimpse into Cambodia’s traditional way of life. The island is known for its silk weaving villages where artisans handcraft beautiful textiles using age-old techniques.

You can tour local workshops to see the silk-making process from start to finish, from raising silkworms to weaving intricate patterns. You’ll find lush rice fields, stilt houses, and quiet roads in the island’s rural setting, making it an ideal place for cycling.

You don’t necessarily need a guided tour to Silk Island but sometimes it’s nice to not have to figure everything out on your own. If you’re up for the challenge, here is a Half-Day Bike Tour OR if you really want someone else to do all the work, you can visit Silk Island by Tuk-Tuk.

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center

The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is located about 25 miles (40km) south of Phnom Penh and is Cambodia’s largest animal sanctuary. The center serves as a rehabilitation and conservation site for rescued animals, many of which were victims of poaching.

Unlike a zoo, Phnom Tamao focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and release whenever possible.

The center is home to over 1200 animals including elephants, tigers, bears, and rare birds. The rescue center’s most famous animal is an elephant named Chhouk who lost a foot to a poacher’s trap and now walks with a custom prosthetic leg.

Once there, you can take a guided tour to learn about Cambodia’s conservation efforts and even participate in behind-the-scenes experiences such as feeding rescued animals.

You don’t have to take a tour to visit the Wildlife Center but just in case you aren’t sure about doing it on your own here’s a Full day tour to the Wildlife Rescue Center, Tonle Bati (below), and several other sites.

Tonle Bati

Tonle Bati is a peaceful lake located about 19 miles (30km) south of Phnom Penh, with ancient temples and scenic views. Tonle Bati is home to the Ta Prohm Temple (yes, the same name as the one in Angkor Wat), a well-preserved 12th century temple.

Another temple nearby, built during the 12th century, named Yeay Peau Temple is named after a legendary Khmer woman. According to local folklore, the woman was a mother who got separated from her son while he was young. He became a powerful prince and years later their paths crossed.

He thought she was so beautiful that he wanted to marry her, but she knew it was her son. To prove to him who she really was, she prayed to the gods for divine intervention. Miraculously, the river split open and the prince realized she was telling the truth. He honored her by building a temple.

Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung)

The Russian Market is a favorite for tourists and expats and is one of the best places in Phnom Penh for shopping. Despite its name, the market doesn’t have a direct Russian connection. It’s nickname comes from the many Soviet expats who shopped there in the 1980’s.

Inside you’ll find a maze of stalls on 3 floors selling everything from handmade crafts, antiques, to knockoff designer goods and souvenirs. It’s also a great spot for food with local vendors selling fresh fruit, noodle dishes, and iced coffee.

Bargaining is expected so make sure you are ready to haggle for the best deals.

Where to stay in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh’s accommodations are very affordable and even the budget hotels will be nice. You might be surprised at what a mid-range hotel costs. I’ve listed a few hotels below that are located near the major sites in Phnom Penh making it convenient for you to walk without having to walk too far.

You honestly cannot go wrong with any of these hotels and the best part is they all have a swimming pool which is very much needed in Cambodia. Just be sure to look at the most recent reviews and the location to be sure that it will work for you.

Luxury Hotel in Phnom Penh

Located near the Wat Phnom Monestery is Raffles Hotel Le Royal. The rooms here are GORGEOUS! The hotel has a pool, two bars, two restaurants, and is located just 20 minutes from the airport.

The Raffles Hotel Le Royal is within walking distance to the riverfront, Royal Palace, and the National Museum.

Mid-Range Hotel in Phnom Penh

The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa is located just behind the Royal Palace and has two outdoor swimming pools, a restaurant, bar, and a fitness center. The rooms are fairly large with a private bathrooms and free WiFi.

The hotel is located in a great area and close to all the major sites. It’s a great choice to stay at in Phnom Penh.

Budget Hotel in Phnom Penh

If you’re on a tight budget the Poolside Villa is a great option for travelers. At the Poolside Villa you’ll find roomy accomodations with a private bathroom and of course a much needed pool.

The Poolside Villa is in a great location and with walking distance from many of the city’s sites such as the Royal Palace and the riverfront area.

7 things you need to have in Phnom Penh

Southeast Asia is crazy hot and humid for most of the year so there are things you need to have with you when traveling here.

1. Water bottle: You can buy water bottles all over Phnom Penh and you’ll want to make sure you have some with you at all times. You could easily get overheated and have a heat stroke if you don’t drink enough.
2. Sunscreen: Sticking with the weather, you will definitely need sunscreen throughout the year, even in the “cooler” months (it’s still hot).
3. Hat and/or umbrella: You’ve got the sunscreen and water but you should still go a little futher and wear a hat or carry an umbrella to keep the sun off you.
4. Comfortable shoes: You’ll probably do a lot of walking in Phnom Penh so make sure you have comfortable shoes.
5. Cash: Carry some small bills with you at all times for purchasing water, street food, taking a tuk-tuk, or for tipping. You’ll find a lot of places, especially street vendors, cannot take a credit card.
6. Hand sanitizer: You’ll spend a lot time walking around Phnom Penh, touching handrails, petting dogs and cats, sitting on a bench, etc. You may need to carry some hand sanitizer to use every now and then, especially if you plan on eating some street food.
7. Lightweight clothing: Back to our weather theme, I cannot stress enough how hot and humid it can get in Phnom Penh so dress accordingly. You’ll want clothing that is breathable and light. Avoid jeans and anything heavy. Trust me.

Final Thoughts About Phnom Penh

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia you should make sure to spend a few days in its Capital City of Phnom Penh. Phnom Penh’s historical signifcance, welcoming locals, and mix of old and new makes it a compelling destination for travelers.

From the Royal Palace and National Museum to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng, the city’s rich history and resilient spirit will leave a lasting impression.