Explore PHNOM PENH with Our Travel Guide and Tour Packages

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, lies at the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap Rivers in southern Cambodia. Often included in many curated Cambodia tour packages, this dynamic city offers a rich combination of ancient traditions, colonial elegance, and modern energy. Once referred to as the “Pearl of Asia,” Phnom Penh captures the spirit of a nation rebuilding itself with pride and resilience.
A trip to Phnom Penh brings travelers face-to-face with the country’s most iconic landmarks. The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda glisten with golden spires, representing Cambodia’s deep spiritual heritage. Just a short drive away, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields offer sobering reminders of the Khmer Rouge era—making Phnom Penh not just a sightseeing destination, but a profound emotional experience. These historical sites are key highlights for anyone interested in Phnom Penh tourism, especially history lovers seeking to understand the country beyond its temples.
In recent years, Phnom Penh has become an essential stop for those taking cross-border adventures from Vietnam, often planned through a reliable Vietnam travel company. With easy overland routes and direct connections, travelers frequently combine trips to Phnom Penh with coastal getaways or cultural tours in Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City.
Aside from its historical significance, Phnom Penh is a city full of life. Bustling markets, riverfront cafés, and a thriving food scene keep visitors entertained long after the museums close. From sipping cocktails at rooftop bars to exploring hidden alleyways with street food stalls, the capital never ceases to surprise. It’s a city of contrasts—soulful yet progressive, sacred yet buzzing with energy.
Phnom Penh is best suited for culture lovers, history buffs, city explorers, and anyone looking to see Cambodia beyond the temples of Angkor.
Phnom Penh’s culinary scene is a flavorful reflection of Cambodia’s layered history — from royal traditions to street food staples shaped by French and Southeast Asian influences. As you explore Phnom Penh tourism, you’ll find that food is one of the city’s most vibrant expressions of culture and resilience. Whether you're sipping strong iced Khmer coffee by the river or discovering a roadside vendor serving crispy fried spring rolls, every bite tells a story.
For travelers choosing Cambodia tour packages, Phnom Penh offers a delicious introduction to Khmer cuisine. Local markets brim with freshly grilled seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like fish amok or beef lok lak. Riverside restaurants serve both modern takes and authentic recipes, while French bakeries echo colonial times with croissants and baguettes.
Planning a trip to Phnom Penh with a trusted Vietnam travel company often includes guided food tours—perfect for foodies and culture lovers. From upscale rooftop dining to steaming bowls of noodle soup in bustling alleyways, Phnom Penh’s food scene is as diverse as its past.
- Bai Sach Chrouk: A breakfast favorite in Phnom Penh, Bai Sach Chrouk features thinly sliced grilled pork served over fragrant broken rice. It’s a simple yet hearty dish that travelers often encounter early in the day during their trip to Phnom Penh.
- Nom Banh Chok: This traditional Khmer noodle dish is a must-try for anyone booking Cambodia tour packages. Made with rice noodles and topped with a fragrant fish-based green curry sauce, it’s especially popular among locals for breakfast or light lunch.
- Khmer Red Curry: Richer and less spicy than its Thai counterpart, Khmer Red Curry is a comfort dish found in many homes and restaurants across Phnom Penh. Made with coconut milk, beef or chicken, and root vegetables, it’s a highlight on many Phnom Penh tourism food tours.
- Prahok Ktis: A bold and flavorful dip made with fermented fish, coconut milk, and minced pork, Prahok Ktis is uniquely Cambodian. Served with fresh vegetables, it’s a cultural experience as much as it is a meal—perfect for adventurous eaters on a trip to Phnom Penh.
- Grilled Beef Skewers (Sach Ko Ang): Found at street stalls and night markets, these marinated skewers of grilled beef are often paired with pickled vegetables. They’re a savory snack that’s often recommended by guides from a Vietnam travel company when crossing into Cambodia.
- Street BBQ: Phnom Penh’s night markets come alive with sizzling BBQ stands offering a wide variety of meats and seafood on skewers. This casual dining option is a fun and flavorful way to dive into the local food scene during your Cambodia tour package.
- Angkor Beer & Cambodia Beer: These two iconic local beers are widely available across Phnom Penh and are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, especially when paired with street food or grilled meats. Whether you’re enjoying a trip to Phnom Penh or relaxing after a day of sightseeing, these beers offer a refreshing taste of Cambodia’s brewing tradition.
- Sugarcane Juice (Tuk Ampov): A beloved street drink, Sugarcane Juice is freshly pressed from sugarcane stalks, often served with a splash of lime and ice for extra zest. This sweet, refreshing drink is especially popular for cooling off on hot afternoons during your Cambodia tour package.
- Palm Wine: A traditional Cambodian drink made from fermented sap of palm trees, Palm Wine is mildly sweet with a slightly fermented taste. Often enjoyed by locals, it's a unique and authentic beverage to try while immersing yourself in the local culture during Phnom Penh tourism.
- Khmer Iced Coffee: Khmer Iced Coffee is a strong, drip-brewed coffee mixed with sweet condensed milk and served over ice. It’s a popular morning pick-me-up in Phnom Penh, offering an energizing boost during your exploration of the city’s historical sites or vibrant markets.
- Fresh Coconut Juice: Nothing beats the refreshment of fresh coconut juice when you’re out exploring Phnom Penh’s temples and riverside areas. Hydrating and cool, it’s readily available at street stalls and local markets, making it an essential part of your trip to Phnom Penh.
Phnom Penh is the vibrant heart of Cambodia, where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly. As the capital, it offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s past with its iconic French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and poignant historical sites. For those planning a trip to Phnom Penh, the best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is cool and dry, ideal for exploring the city's landmarks. Whether you're strolling along the Mekong River, visiting the Royal Palace, or learning about Cambodia's tragic history at the Killing Fields, Phnom Penh provides a rich experience for travelers. The city also offers a dynamic food scene, from street food to high-end restaurants. For a deeper dive into Phnom Penh tourism, make sure to explore its markets, enjoy traditional Cambodian dishes, and take in the bustling riverside life.
- Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda: The Royal Palace is the residence of Cambodia’s royalty, offering stunning architecture and lush gardens. The Silver Pagoda, featuring a floor of gleaming silver tiles, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Phnom Penh tourism.
- Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: A visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is an essential part of any Phnom Penh tour. This museum stands as a haunting reminder of the Khmer Rouge atrocities, providing an emotional and educational experience for those wishing to learn about Cambodia’s tragic past.
- Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Choeung Ek Killing Fields is an emotional site, where a memorial stupa and an audio-guided tour help visitors understand the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge era. This site is an important stop for anyone seeking to delve into Cambodia’s dark history during their Phnom Penh trip.
- Wat Phnom: Wat Phnom is a hilltop Buddhist temple with panoramic views of the city. This legendary site is where Phnom Penh was founded, making it an important historical and spiritual landmark for visitors to explore on their Phnom Penh tour.
- National Museum of Cambodia: The National Museum of Cambodia offers an in-depth look at Cambodia’s history with a collection of Angkor-era artifacts and Khmer sculptures. This museum is an important stop for history buffs and anyone interested in learning more about the cultural heritage of Cambodia during their Phnom Penh trip.
- Central Market (Psar Thmei): The Central Market (Psar Thmei) is an iconic Art Deco building filled with shops selling everything from unique souvenirs to street food. It’s a lively and colorful spot in the heart of the city, perfect for tourists looking to experience the best of Phnom Penh tourism.
- Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung): Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung) is known for its variety of goods, from antiques to local fashion. It's a great place to shop for unique items while experiencing the local culture, making it an essential stop for travelers on a Phnom Penh tour.
- Sisowath Quay & Riverside Promenade: Sisowath Quay, along the Mekong River, offers a lively promenade with cafés, bars, and stunning sunset views. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and soak in the riverside atmosphere, making it one of the highlights of Phnom Penh tourism.
The best time to visit Phnom Penh is from November to March, when the weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for sightseeing. During this season, you can comfortably explore the city's highlights, including historical sites like the Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, as well as enjoy a stroll along the Sisowath Quay Riverside Promenade. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly experience, May to October offers a quieter, less crowded atmosphere. Although it’s the rainy season, the lush landscapes and fewer tourists make it a great time for those seeking more affordable Phnom Penh tourism.
Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) is well-connected to many regional and domestic destinations, making it easy to get to the city from places like Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. Additionally, overland travel is simple and convenient, with frequent bus and car routes available for those journeying from nearby cities in Vietnam or other parts of Cambodia. If you're coming from Siem Reap, the trip typically takes about 5-6 hours by road. Whether you're arriving by air or overland, Phnom Penh tourism offers smooth travel options to this vibrant city.
In Phnom Penh, the most common and affordable mode of transport is the tuk-tuk, which can be found all over the city and is perfect for short trips around top attractions like Wat Phnom and the National Museum of Cambodia. For a more comfortable experience or to explore the city in style, you can opt for a private car, especially if you’re planning a Phnom Penh tour for the day. Tuk-tuks are an ideal choice for those looking to explore the city's history and culture at their own pace.
When preparing for your Phnom Penh trip, it's important to pack for the warm, tropical climate. Essentials include a hat, breathable clothes, and sunscreen. Since Phnom Penh is home to many temples and religious sites, it’s recommended to bring respectful attire that covers the shoulders and knees for temple visits, such as a scarf or shawl. To make your trip easier, consider downloading offline maps and carrying some small cash to shop at local markets like the Russian Market and Central Market (Psar Thmei), where bargaining is common.
Activities
Our pick: Visits to the National Fine Arts' Museum, Wat Phnom pagoda and Central Market, then dropping off at the ballet school, and attending the night market near the Tonle Sap.
Historical tour to the Toul Sleng Genocidal Museum and relevant memorials.
Mekong river cruise from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap and Saigon and vice versa
Entertainment and shopping at the night market, bar, pubs, exciting streets by the river.
Photography tour, LGBT tour, MICE and excursions to beaches and islands in the South.












