Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh Travel Guide

Cambodia's charming capital, where the Royal Palace and French colonial architecture sit side by side. The sunset where the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers meet at the Riverside, the ornate Khmer architecture of the Royal Palace, and the profound historical resonance of the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng form Phnom Penh's three pillars. Shopping at the Russian Market and sipping Cambodian beer at riverside stalls add to the easygoing charm. Recommended for travelers who want to experience Cambodia's history and present together.

Essential Phnom Penh Travel Info

Must-Visit Places in Phnom Penh

★ 4.5

Royal Palace

Built in 1866, Phnom Penh's Royal Palace is the official residence of Cambodia's king and a showcase of traditional Khmer architecture. Inside the grounds, the Silver Pagoda is paved with 5,329 silver tiles and houses an emerald Buddha and a gold Buddha. Manicured royal gardens and gleaming golden roofs convey the dignity of the Cambodian monarchy. Admission USD 10. A 5-minute walk from the Riverside.

HoursDaily 08:00-11:00 and 14:00-17:00

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsKnees and shoulders must be covered. The king's private quarters are off-limits. Visit in the morning to avoid the heat.

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★ 4.4

Killing Fields (Choeung Ek)

The Killing Fields (Choeung Ek Genocidal Center) is the site where around 17,000 people were executed under the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979). Where victims' remains and clothing were unearthed, a memorial stupa now holds more than 8,000 skulls. An audio guide featuring survivor testimony offers a deeply moving look at one of history's darkest chapters. Admission USD 6 (audio guide included). About 30 minutes by tuk-tuk from downtown.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationDangkao, Phnom Penh

TipsUse the audio guide (Korean is supported). It can be emotionally difficult, so prepare yourself. Combine the visit with the Tuol Sleng Museum.

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★ 4.3

National Museum of Cambodia

Founded in 1920, the National Museum of Cambodia is the country's largest heritage museum, housed in a striking terracotta-colored Khmer-style building from the French colonial era. Its collection of about 14,000 artifacts spans Angkor-era Buddha statues, carved lintels, and bronzes. The central courtyard pond and gardens are lovely, and visiting before exploring Angkor helps you appreciate the temples. Admission USD 10. Just north of the Royal Palace, a 3-minute walk.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsIt's next to the Royal Palace, so combine the two. Indoor photography requires a separate fee.

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★ 4.5

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)

Originally a high school, Tuol Sleng (S-21) became a secret prison from 1975-1979 where 14,000-17,000 people were detained, tortured, and killed under the Khmer Rouge. Now preserved as a museum, it displays prisoner photographs, torture instruments, and cells that vividly convey the brutality of the era. Together with the Killing Fields, it is essential for understanding Cambodia's darkest chapter. Korean audio guides are available. Admission USD 5 (+ USD 3 audio guide). In central Phnom Penh, about 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from the Royal Palace.

HoursDaily 08:00-17:00

LocationBoeng Keng Kang 3, Phnom Penh

TipsIt's emotionally heavy — go in a calm state of mind. Visiting with the Killing Fields the same day is efficient, but consider your emotional bandwidth.

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★ 4.2

Wat Phnom

Founded in 1372, Wat Phnom is Phnom Penh's oldest Buddhist temple and the source of the city's name ('Phnom Penh' means 'Penh's Hill'). Perched on a 27 m artificial hill in the middle of downtown, it sees a steady stream of locals praying for harvest and family well-being. Monkeys roam the surrounding park, making it a pleasant short stroll. Admission USD 1. About 5 minutes by tuk-tuk from the Riverside.

HoursDaily 07:00-18:30

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsThe temple looks lovely lit up at night. Monkeys may grab bags, so keep food tucked away.

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★ 4.3

Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung)

Russian Market (officially Psar Toul Tom Poung) got its name in the 1980s from the Soviet diplomats who frequented it. It's Phnom Penh's iconic traditional market where you can find Khmer silk, silverware, antiques, Cambodian designer clothing and bags, plus fresh fruit and street food. The narrow lanes and maze-like layout are part of the charm, and you can stop at stalls for a Cambodian breakfast. Free admission. In south Phnom Penh, about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk from the Royal Palace.

HoursDaily 07:00-17:00

LocationTonle Bassac, Phnom Penh

TipsBargain — start at half the initial price. Mornings are cooler and food stalls are freshest.

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★ 4.4

Sisowath Quay (Riverside)

Sisowath Quay stretches about 3 km along the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers in Phnom Penh. At sunset the rivers shimmer gold and the cafes and restaurants along the embankment come alive. A nightly riverside night market sells street food, clothing, and souvenirs, and on weekends Cambodian families gather here to do mass aerobics — a uniquely local scene. Free. Directly in front of the Royal Palace.

Hours24 hours (night market 17:00-22:00)

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsA riverside rooftop bar at sunset is also a great option. The night market gets going from 5 pm.

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★ 4.3

Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

Built in 1937 during the French colonial era, Central Market (Phsar Thmei) is Phnom Penh's iconic Art Deco landmark, crowned by an enormous yellow dome. Four cross-shaped wings extend out from the dome, housing jewelry, watches, clothing, electronics, money changers, and a food section with fresh fruit and seafood. It feels more local than Russian Market but is excellent for currency exchange and jewelry shopping. Free admission. About 5 minutes by tuk-tuk from the Riverside.

HoursDaily 07:00-17:00

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsExchange rates are better than downtown booths. Verifying gemstone authenticity is hard — buy with caution.

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★ 4.4

Independence Monument

Built in 1958 by architect Vann Molyvann to commemorate independence from France in 1953, the Independence Monument takes a lotus-bud form inspired by the towers of Angkor Wat and Banteay Srei. Standing at the roundabout where Norodom and Sihanouk Boulevards meet, it's an iconic Phnom Penh landmark, especially striking when lit at night. Wreath-laying ceremonies are held here on Independence Day and the King's birthday. Free to view (exterior). About a 15-minute walk from the Royal Palace.

HoursOpen 24 hours (exterior)

LocationChamkarmon, Phnom Penh

TipsIt's most beautiful lit up at night. Watch for traffic when photographing it from the roundabout.

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★ 4.3

Wat Ounalom

Located along Sisowath Quay, Wat Ounalom is one of Cambodian Buddhism's most important temples, founded in the 15th century and once the seat of the Mahanikaya order. Badly damaged during the Khmer Rouge era, it has since been restored and is said to enshrine an eyebrow relic of the Buddha. Close to the Royal Palace, it's a peaceful stop on a riverside stroll. Free admission (donations welcome). A 5-minute walk from the Royal Palace.

HoursDaily 06:00-18:00

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsEasy to include on a riverside walking route. Cover knees and shoulders.

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★ 4.2

Wat Langka

Wat Langka is one of Phnom Penh's five surviving ancient pagodas, said to have originally been built as a refuge for Buddhist scripture copies brought from Sri Lanka. It features gleaming golden roofs, elaborate murals, and naga serpent sculptures, along with a memorial to victims of the Khmer Rouge era on its grounds. Nearby boutique cafes and a lively young crowd make it easy to combine with other stops. Free admission (donations welcome). A 5-minute walk from Independence Monument.

HoursDaily 06:00-18:00

LocationChamkarmon, Phnom Penh

TipsEasy to walk here from Independence Monument. Early mornings you may see monks on their alms rounds.

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★ 4.1

Koh Pich (Diamond Island)

Koh Pich (Diamond Island) is a 100-hectare man-made island in the Tonle Bassac River, home to convention centers, upscale apartments, wedding halls, and European-style architecture as part of Phnom Penh's newest development district. Riverside promenades offer great views of the Phnom Penh skyline at night, and cafes and restaurants come alive in the evening with local young crowds. Close to the Royal Palace and Riverside, easy to combine into a route. Free admission. About 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from the Royal Palace.

HoursOpen 24 hours

LocationTonle Bassac, Phnom Penh

TipsThe night skyline view is especially lovely. Weekend evenings often bring wedding processions to watch.

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★ 3.9

Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument

The Cambodia–Vietnam Friendship Monument is a large concrete structure commemorating the 1979 overthrow of the Khmer Rouge regime with Vietnamese military support. Featuring statues of Vietnamese and Cambodian soldiers standing side by side, it's a notable example of socialist-era memorial architecture. Located near Hun Sen Park, it's an easy stop on a stroll. Free to view (exterior). About a 10-minute walk from the Royal Palace.

HoursOpen 24 hours (exterior)

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsIt touches on politically sensitive history, so be respectful when photographing. Easy to pair with a walk through Hun Sen Park.

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★ 4.2

Chaktomuk Conference Hall

Built in 1961 by celebrated Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, the Chaktomuk Conference Hall is a fan-shaped theater considered a masterpiece of New Khmer Architecture. Located along the riverfront, its design uses natural ventilation drawing on cool river breezes, and it's still used today for government events and performances. Even viewing the exterior offers a taste of Cambodia's modern architectural heritage. Free to view (exterior; interior access during events). A 10-minute walk from the Riverside.

HoursExterior viewable anytime (interior depends on event schedule)

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsEspecially recommended for architecture enthusiasts. Check the event schedule in advance for a chance to see inside.

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★ 4

Phnom Penh Railway Station

Phnom Penh Railway Station is an Art Deco building constructed in 1932 during the French colonial era, notable for its yellow facade and symmetrical design. As the hub of Cambodia's rail network, with lines running toward Sihanoukville and international connections to Bangkok, it has been renovated to blend old-world charm with modern convenience. The plaza in front is a local gathering spot and occasional night market venue. Free to view (exterior). Located in central Phnom Penh.

HoursDaily 05:00-22:00

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsWorth a stop for Art Deco photos even if you're not taking a train. Food stalls set up in the plaza in the evening.

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★ 4.2

Wat Botum

Wat Botum (officially Wat Botum Vatey Reachavararam) is one of Phnom Penh's five ancient pagodas, built under royal patronage and closely tied to the monarchy. Located just south of Independence Monument, its grounds also hold a memorial stupa honoring Khmer Rouge victims, giving it historical weight as well. The gilded roofs and tranquil courtyard make it a peaceful escape in the city center. Free admission (donations welcome). A 5-minute walk from Independence Monument.

HoursDaily 06:00-18:00

LocationChamkarmon, Phnom Penh

TipsCombine with walks to Independence Monument and Wat Langka. The grounds are quiet, so be respectful.

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★ 4.1

Cambodiana Hotel

Construction of the 239-room Cambodiana Hotel began in the 1960s but was halted during the Khmer Rouge era, finally completing in the 1990s. It showcases New Khmer Architecture, blending traditional Khmer roof profiles with modern structure. Set on the banks of the Tonle Sap, it offers beautiful river and riverside views, and even a stroll through the lobby and gardens reveals the charm of Cambodian modern architecture. The riverside restaurant is lovely for a sunset dinner. Free to view (exterior). About a 15-minute walk from the Royal Palace.

HoursOpen 24 hours (exterior)

LocationChamkarmon, Phnom Penh

TipsArchitecture fans should stroll the lobby and gardens. Consider booking a sunset dinner at the riverside restaurant.

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★ 4.2

Vattanac Capital Tower

Completed in 2014, the 187m, 39-story Vattanac Capital Tower is Phnom Penh's most recognizable skyscraper, known for its sweeping curved glass facade. It houses the headquarters of Vattanac Bank and lights up dramatically at night as a city landmark. Along with the nearby Aeon Mall, the area showcases Phnom Penh's modern face. Free to view (exterior). Located in the city center.

HoursOpen 24 hours (exterior)

LocationDaun Penh, Phnom Penh

TipsIt's most striking when lit up at night. Pair with the nearby Aeon Mall for a downtown night-view route.

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Things to Do in Phnom Penh

Culture

Killing Fields & Tuol Sleng History Tour

Half-day tour with a guide visiting the two key Khmer Rouge memorial sites — Choeung Ek Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng. Korean audio guides offer deeper historical context.

Price Tour USD 15-25 + USD 5-6 admissions eachDuration About 4-5 hours

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Tour

Mekong Sunset Cruise

A 1-2 hour boat cruise along the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap to catch the sunset. Drinks are often included; the Phnom Penh skyline glows gold from the water.

Price USD 8-15Duration About 1.5-2 hours

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Tour

Tuk-Tuk City Tour

Hire a tuk-tuk for the day to efficiently cover the Royal Palace, National Museum, Wat Phnom, and Russian Market. The driver doubles as a guide and lunch recommender.

Price USD 15-25/day (admissions extra)Duration About 6-8 hours

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Culture

Khmer Cooking Class

Shop with a chef at Central Market, then cook and eat 3-4 Cambodian classics like fish amok, lok lak, and green mango salad for lunch.

Price USD 18-30Duration About 4 hours

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Culture

Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda Guided Tour

Guided tour of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda with a licensed guide explaining the history and meaning of Khmer royal architecture, including the story of the 5,329 silver tiles and Emerald Buddha.

Price Tour USD 10-20 + USD 10 admissionDuration About 2-3 hours

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Culture

Riverside Street Food Tour

Walk the Sisowath Quay night market and riverside stalls with a guide, sampling 5-7 street foods like num krok, lok lak, and Cambodian BBQ.

Price USD 20-30Duration About 3 hours

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Must-Try Food in Phnom Penh

Kuy Teav

🍱 Traditional

Kuy Teav: a Cambodian breakfast rice-noodle soup in a pork-bone broth. About USD 1-3 per bowl. Morning stalls near Olympic Market are a local favorite.

Lok Lak

🍱 Traditional

Lok Lak: a popular Cambodian dish of stir-fried beef in soy-pepper sauce served over rice. About USD 3-6 per serving. Available at restaurants along the Riverside and in the BKK area.

Banh Chao (Cambodian Crepe)

🍢 Street Food

Banh Chao: a crispy Cambodian rice-flour crepe filled with shrimp and bean sprouts. About USD 1-3 each. Try it at stalls near the Russian Market alongside locals.

Fish Amok

🍱 Traditional

Fish steamed in a coconut-milk and kroeung (spice paste) sauce inside a banana-leaf cup — Cambodia's national dish. About USD 4-8 per serving. Malis Restaurant on the Riverside is recommended.

Kampot Pepper Crab

🍱 Traditional

Crab stir-fried with fresh Kampot pepper — one of the world's finest peppercorns. About USD 8-15 per crab. Riverside seafood restaurants showcase it best.

Num Krok

🍢 Street Food

Num Krok: mini coconut-pudding cakes made from rice flour and coconut milk in a special griddle. About USD 1-2 per pack. Try fresh ones at stalls around Central Market.

Cambodian Iced Coffee

🍵 Drink

Strong Robusta coffee with plenty of condensed milk poured over ice — Cambodian iced coffee. About USD 0.5-1.5 per glass. Available at street stalls or cafes along Sisowath Quay.

Phnom Penh Travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

The dry season (November-April) is best, with December-February the most pleasant.

How much does it cost to travel in Phnom Penh?

Daily budget around $20-50 (lodging $10-20; food $7-15; transport and sightseeing $4-15).

How do I get around in Phnom Penh?

From Phnom Penh International Airport, it's about 30 minutes by tuk-tuk to town. Tuk-tuks and Grab are the main ways to get around the city. SIM cards (Smart/Metfone) available at the airport (about USD 3-5/week). Both US dollars and riel are accepted; cash is dominant. Tipping is optional.

Do I need a visa to visit Phnom Penh?

Korean passport holders can get an e-visa or visa on arrival (30 days).

Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists?

Tourist areas are safe but watch for motorbike snatch-thieves. Prepare for emotional impact when visiting the Killing Fields.

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