There is so much to see and do in Phnom Penh that almost all people are surprised as they make a stop in the Phnom Penh heading to or from Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat. But people who don’t make a stop off in Phnom Penh miss out on such a lot of fascinating historical, cultural and environmental attractions on offer.
It’s not all about Cambodia’s tragic past or the Khmer Rouge either. Khmer era temples, museums, shopping, and river activities are all easily accessible and tours are affordable. See our personally researched guide to the best attractions in Phnom Penh below.
The Royal Palace
Address: Riverside, Sisowath Quay
Opening Hours: 08:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M
The Royal Palace covers an area of 174,870 sq. meters and is open to visitors, even if the king of Cambodia still lives there sometimes (if the blue royal flag is flying, the king is in residence).Different buildings have been added and renovated over time, even up until the mid-1960s, but some date back to the 19th century. You’ll be able to visit Throne Hall with ceiling frescos showing the story of the Ramayana, the Moonlight marquee where classical Khmer dances have been performed for decades, and also the Silver pagoda, named after the 5 tons of tiles covering its floor. The Silver pagoda also houses the renowned Emerald Buddha.
The National Museum of Cambodia
Address: Corner of Street 13 and Street 178
Opening hours: 08:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. daily
The National museum of Cambodia has one of the biggest collections of Khmer arts with over 1,800 works on exhibition. There are varied sculptures, ceramics, and ethnographical objects like theatrical costumes or marriage boxes dating from the ancient time to post-Angkorian periods. The building is in the early 20th century but reveals traditional Khmer design. The ponds and garden feature statues of various religions. Note that taking photos inside the museum is not permitted and this is a must-see visit while in Phnom Penh.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Address: Street 113, Sangkat Tuol Sleng
Opening hours: 07:00 A.M – 5:30 P.M. daily
Tuol Sleng genocide museum, also known as S-21 prison, and Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial are the foremost visited traveler spots in Phnom Penh. Visits to both sites may be very emotional, but it's an important stop while visiting Phnom Penh to know the latest tragic Cambodian history.
Tuol Sleng was a high school that the Khmer Rouge used as a torment and interrogation center. Most rooms are left in the state they were found in January 1979, as well as classrooms divided into small cells. The haunting identity photos of the prisoners who were tortured here are displayed in the museum.
Choeung Ek Killing Fields Memorial
Address: Sangkat Cheung Aek
Opening hours: 07:00 A.M – 5:30 P.M. daily
Choeung Ek Memorial is best called the Killing Fields. Locate 17km south of Phnom Penh, Choeung Ek Memorial is one of the many killing fields and burial grounds used by the Khmer Rouge throughout Cambodia. The huge graves were revealed there after the Khmer Rouge fled the city, and estimates up to 15,000 people were killed there. The visit is very detailed and includes testimony from both survivors and guards of the regime.
Central Market
If there’s one thing Cambodian capital has plenty of, it's markets. Large, small and everything in-between, you’ll find collections of stalls in main streets around the city, selling millions of everything. If you’re pressed for time, you'll be able to get the full experience at the must-see Central Market. Both can excite all of your senses, but have completely different atmospheres and are famed for their own specialties and bargains are assured.
River cruises
Address: Sisowath Quay, Riverside
Opening hours: day and sunset times
River cruises begin at Sisowath quay, between Street 178 and Street 130. Expect to be asked again and again to choose a ship as you walk past. There are evening sunset and daytime cruises which are the most common. This is an excellent way to see the city from a distinct perspective and enjoy stunning views of the Riverside and Royal Palace. The route goes down the Tonle Sap onto the Mekong River and up the shore of Kandal Province on the opposite side to look at floating villages before returning.
