Explore Phnom Penh: Royal Palaces, Local Markets, and Khmer Cuisine

As a tour guide, I often describe Phnom Penh as a city where history and modern life blend seamlessly. Once called the "Pearl of Asia," Phnom Penh is a destination that surprises visitors with its French colonial architecture, vibrant riverside atmosphere, and deeply moving historical landmarks. Whether you're here to learn about Cambodia's past, enjoy delicious street food, or simply soak up urban energy, Phnom Penh delivers a multifaceted experience.
 

📍 Where is Phnom Penh?

Location: Southern central Cambodia

Situated on: The banks of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac Rivers

Distance to Siem Reap: ~320 km (6–8 hours by road)

✈️ How to Get to Phnom Penh

By Air:

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)

Direct flights from Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and more

By Bus/Van:

Buses from Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, Kampot, and Battambang

Comfortable private minivans available for door-to-door service

By Boat:

Ferry service to/from Siem Reap via Tonle Sap (seasonal)

🏛️ Top Attractions in Phnom Penh

1. Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

The official residence of Cambodia’s royal family

Intricate Khmer architecture and manicured gardens

The Silver Pagoda features a floor made of over 5,000 silver tiles

2. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)

Former school turned prison during Khmer Rouge era

Deeply emotional and educational experience about Cambodia’s tragic history

3. Choeung Ek Killing Fields

One of many mass grave sites from the Khmer Rouge regime

Audio tours available to guide you through the memorial site

4. Wat Phnom

Hilltop Buddhist temple believed to be the founding place of the city

Serene atmosphere and panoramic city views

5. National Museum of Cambodia

Largest collection of Khmer art, sculpture, and artifacts

Great prelude before visiting Angkor sites in Siem Reap

6. Independence Monument

Built to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953

Beautifully lit at night and located near a popular public park

🛍️ Best Things to Do in Phnom Penh

🌊 Stroll Along the Riverside (Sisowath Quay)

Popular promenade lined with cafes, bars, and markets

Great spot for evening walks, people-watching, and sunset views

🛍️ Visit the Markets

Central Market (Phsar Thmei): Art Deco building with jewelry, electronics, clothes, and souvenirs

Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung): Bargains on handicrafts, antiques, fabrics, and local food

Night Markets: Open-air food courts and shopping stalls along the riverfront

🍲 Join a Cambodian Cooking Class

Learn to cook traditional dishes like fish amok, banana blossom salad, and Khmer curry

🖼️ Explore Street Art & Galleries

Check out the underground art scene in neighborhoods like Boeung Keng Kang (BKK)

Visit Sa Sa Art Projects and Romeet Gallery for contemporary Cambodian art

🍛 What to Eat in Phnom Penh

Cambodian food is flavorful and nuanced, with a balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami. Phnom Penh is an excellent place to experience authentic Khmer cuisine alongside international dining.

Must-Try Dishes:

Bai Sach Chrouk: Pork and rice, often served at breakfast

Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodle soup with fish-based gravy

Fish Amok: Steamed fish curry in banana leaf

Kuy Teav: Noodle soup with pork or beef

Prahok: Fermented fish paste used in sauces or grilled dishes

Top Restaurants:

Romdeng: Run by former street youth, known for upscale Khmer cuisine and tarantula dishes!

Malis: Fine dining in a peaceful garden setting

Friends the Restaurant: Social enterprise serving global tapas

Eleven One Kitchen: Eco-friendly and budget-conscious Khmer meals

🍹 Nightlife in Phnom Penh

The city has a dynamic nightlife scene, with something for every traveler.

Where to Go:

Bassac Lane: Trendy alley of boutique bars and restaurants

Riverside (Sisowath Quay): Bars, rooftop lounges, and live music

Pontoon Club: Iconic nightclub for dance and DJs

Le Moon Rooftop: Views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers

🛏️ Where to Stay in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh has accommodations for all budgets and styles.

Budget (Under $20 USD)

The Happy House Zone – Hostel near the riverfront

Onederz Phnom Penh – Social and clean with great river views

Base Villa – Affordable and chill with a pool

Mid-Range ($30–$70 USD)

TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel – Stylish, tea-inspired design

The Pavilion – Adults-only boutique hotel in colonial mansion

Patio Hotel & Urban Resort – Rooftop pool and city views

Luxury ($100+ USD)

Rosewood Phnom Penh – 5-star hotel in Vattanac Capital Tower

Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra – Colonial-style grandeur with full facilities

Raffles Hotel Le Royal – Historic charm and top-tier service

🧳 What to Pack for Phnom Penh

Lightweight, breathable clothing

Respectful attire for temples (no shorts or tank tops)

Sunscreen and insect repellent

Reusable water bottle

Comfortable walking shoes

Umbrella or raincoat during wet season

📅 Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh

Dry Season (November–March)

Pleasant weather and best for sightseeing

Peak tourist period

Wet Season (May–October)

Afternoon showers but lush scenery

Fewer crowds and lower prices

Avoid April if you're sensitive to heat—it’s the hottest month of the year.

📌 Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Phnom Penh

Day 1: History & Culture

Morning: Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

Afternoon: National Museum

Evening: Riverside walk and dinner at Malis

Day 2: Khmer Rouge Legacy

Morning: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Afternoon: Killing Fields at Choeung Ek

Evening: Reflective dinner at Friends Restaurant

Day 3: Markets & Local Life

Morning: Central or Russian Market

Afternoon: Cooking class or Khmer massage

Evening: Cocktails at Bassac Lane

🌱 Responsible Travel Tips

Dress respectfully at religious sites

Avoid single-use plastics—refillable water bottles are ideal

Don’t support orphanage tourism

Buy from local vendors and social enterprises

Learn basic Khmer phrases: locals will appreciate your effort

💬 Local Phrases to Know

Hello – “Sua s'dei”

Thank you – “Arkun”

Yes/No – “Baat/Te” (for men) or “Chaa/Te” (for women)

How much? – “T'lai bonmaan?”

✅ Final Thoughts: Why Visit Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh may not have the ancient grandeur of Angkor Wat, but it offers something just as powerful—an unfiltered look at Cambodia’s soul. From royal palaces to genocide memorials, lively street markets to riverside cafes, Phnom Penh tells Cambodia’s full story. It’s a city that challenges, teaches, entertains, and welcomes.

If you're visiting Cambodia, don’t skip the capital—Phnom Penh will leave a mark on your heart.