Things to do in Phnom Penh

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Phnom Penh travel guide

Phnom Penh showing night scenes, nightlife and a fountain

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Top places to visit

1. Royal Palace

One glimpse of Royal Palace is enough to confirm that it was built for kings and queens. Look for the gilded roof and dramatic Khmer architecture of this dominant Phnom Penh landmark.

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Royal Palace showing heritage elements, château or palace and a park

2. Central Market

If shopping in Phnom Penh is on your list of things to do, make Central Market your first stop. From fragrant spices to antique furniture to souvenir shirts, the market offers a surprising variety of goods under its dome roof.

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3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Walk through Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering reminder of the horrors that humanity is capable of committing. Although a visit here will leave you decidedly depressed, it is an important monument to the lives lost during the barbaric Khmer Rouge regime.

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4. Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom towers above Phnom Penh on the only hill in the city. Enter the Buddhist monastery through the grand staircase on its eastern side. You will immediately notice the gates, which are adorned with lions and snakes.

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Playing tour guide for the weekend exploring the market, good coffee on street 136 and this beautiful view of the clock garden in Wat Phnom.
More on Wat Phnom: http://bit.ly/1v8y6o8

5. Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument

With its shimmering golden top, the Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument creates a striking icon. This pillar is an instantly recognizable symbol in Cambodia’s capital, Phnom Penh.

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Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument featuring a monument and a park

What to do in Phnom Penh

Popular places to visit

Wat Ounalom which includes religious aspects

Riverside

4/5(83 reviews)

Riverside is just one of the places to see in Phnom Penh, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the area's riverfront or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.

Royal Palace

4.5/5(67 reviews)

Befitting the home of Cambodia’s royalty, the glittering golden roofline of this palace dominates Phnom Penh’s skyline.

Central Market

4/5(72 reviews)

Whether you’re looking for fresh food or a new watch, you can buy just about anything imaginable within the walls of Phnom Penh’s famous cross-shaped market.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

4.5/5(59 reviews)

This former prison outside Phnom Penh brings to light the brutality of Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge and honors the 17,000 people who lost their lives here.

Tuol Tom Pong Market

3.5/5(18 reviews)

During your visit to Phnom Penh, you can do some window-shopping at Tuol Tom Pong Market. Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Wat Phnom

4/5(46 reviews)

Sitting atop what is considered the only hill in Phnom Penh, this eclectic Buddhist monastery features a fascinating array of shrines, stupas and ornate buildings.

Cambodia-Vietnam Friendship Monument

4/5(23 reviews)

When you walk through Phnom Penh’s Wat Botum Park, pause for a moment to investigate this soaring Communist monument.

Independence Monument

4/5(53 reviews)

Like a massive lotus blooming from Phnom Penh’s center, this monument is a touching tribute to the country’s independence and to the people who made it possible.

Silver Pagoda

4/5(30 reviews)

After visiting Silver Pagoda, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Phnom Penh. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.

Areas of Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh City Centre

3.5/5(139 area reviews)

Phnom Penh City Centre is a destination visitors seek out for its great bars, fascinating museums and beautiful river views. You might also want to check out attractions like Central Market or Wat Phnom while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

Wat Ounalom featuring heritage elements and a temple or place of worship

Daun Penh

4/5(38 area reviews)

The fantastic nightlife and stunning river views are just a few highlights of Daun Penh. Make a stop by National Museum of Cambodia or Central Market while you're exploring the area.

Independence Monument featuring motorbike riding and a monument

Boeung Keng Kang

Travellers come to Boeung Keng Kang for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Independence Monument and Preah Sihanouk Garden while you're in town.

Chamkar Mon

4/5(51 area reviews)

Casinos, cocktail bars and spas are some highlights of Chamkar Mon. Make a stop by Independence Monument or AEON Mall while you're exploring.

Sangkat Tonle Bassac

While visiting Sangkat Tonle Bassac, you might make a stop by sights like AEON Mall and NagaWorld Casino.

Tuol Kouk

4/5(1 area review)

Unique features of Tuol Kouk include the river views and shopping. Make a stop by Monireth Boulevard or TK Avenue Mall while you're exploring the area.

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Phnom Penh

Frequently asked questions

Is Phnom Penh worth visiting?

Offering a blend of culture and history, there are plenty of things to do in Phnom Penh. While you're here, check out Riverside, a key attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Phnom Penh?

Riverside and Sosoro Museum are two excellent places to start your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Phnom Penh while you're there too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Phnom Penh?

The top tourist attraction in Phnom Penh is Riverside, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.

Is three days enough to stay in Phnom Penh?

You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Riverside, Sosoro Museum and Phnom Penh Fantasy World with a three-day trip to Phnom Penh. On average, many travellers book four days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a little longer and head to Boeung Keng Kang.

Is Phnom Penh a walkable city?

Some key attractions in Phnom Penh, like Riverside and Sosoro Museum, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Only 2 kilometres from central Phnom Penh is Daun Penh and Phnom Penh City Centre is 2 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Phnom Penh with kids?

Planning what to do in Phnom Penh with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them busy here.

What to do in Phnom Penh for adults?

Monireth Boulevard and Prayuvong Buddha Factories are just two of the things to do in Phnom Penh. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Phnom Penh?

One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Phnom Penh is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Royal Palace is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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