If you are currently planning a trip to Cambodia and wondering about Phnom Penh what to visit then you have landed in the right place. This bustling capital city offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern urban charm that every traveler should experience. Many visitors start their journey at the iconic Royal Palace which showcases the stunning traditional Khmer architecture and the famous Silver Pagoda. For those interested in the darker history of the country the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields provide a sobering but necessary perspective on the past. You can also explore the vibrant Central Market for shopping or enjoy a sunset cruise along the beautiful Mekong River. This guide aims to resolve your travel dilemmas by providing a curated list of must see attractions and local favorites that will make your stay truly memorable and rewarding.
Latest Most Questions Asked Forum discuss Info about phnom penh what to visit This is the ultimate living FAQ updated for the latest patch of travel trends in the Cambodian capital. We have gathered the most common questions from travelers to help you navigate your journey with ease. Whether you are curious about historical sites or the best local food, this guide has you covered. ## Beginner Questions ### Is Phnom Penh safe for solo travelers? Yes, Phnom Penh is generally safe for solo travelers as long as you keep your wits about you. I have traveled there alone many times and never had a major issue. Just be careful with your phone and bag near busy roads to avoid snatch and grab incidents. It is always better to use a ride hailing app at night instead of walking alone in dark alleys. ### How many days should I spend in Phnom Penh? I think three days is the perfect amount of time to see the major sights without feeling rushed. You can spend one day on history, one day on markets, and one day exploring the riverfront. If you have more time, you can take a day trip to the nearby Silk Island. Honestly, two days is the absolute minimum if you want to see the Killing Fields properly. ### What is the best time of year to visit? The best time to visit is during the cool and dry season from November to February. The weather is much more pleasant for walking around the outdoor temples and palace grounds. I have visited during the rainy season in June and it was still fun but the sudden downpours were a bit annoying. Avoid April if you can because the heat is absolutely brutal and hard to handle. ### Do I need a visa for Cambodia? Most nationalities need a visa to enter Cambodia which you can easily get on arrival at the airport. You can also apply for an e-visa online before you leave home to save time at the immigration counter. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity left on it. I always bring a couple of passport photos just in case they are needed for the paperwork. ## Historical Sites ### What are the Killing Fields? Choeung Ek is the most famous of the many killing fields located across Cambodia from the Khmer Rouge period. It is now a peaceful memorial site with a large stupa filled with skulls to honor the victims. I highly recommend using the audio tour because the personal stories told are incredibly moving and educational. It is about a forty minute drive from the city center depending on the traffic. ### Can I take photos at S21? Photos are allowed in most areas of the Tuol Sleng museum but there are specific rooms where it is prohibited. You should always look for the signs and respect the solemn nature of the site. I think it is important to be respectful and avoid taking selfies in front of the prison cells. It is a place of mourning so keeping your voice down is also very much appreciated by everyone. ### Is the Silver Pagoda actually made of silver? The floor of the pagoda is covered with over five thousand silver tiles that weigh about one kilogram each. You can see parts of the floor that are uncovered and it is truly an impressive sight to behold. The rest of the temple houses many national treasures including a life sized gold Buddha encrusted with diamonds. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in the entire Royal Palace complex. ## Food and Drink ### What local food should I try in Phnom Penh? You must try Fish Amok which is a delicious creamy curry steamed in a banana leaf. I also love the local breakfast soup called Kuy Teav which is very popular with the residents. If you are feeling brave you can find fried spiders and insects at some of the local markets. But honestly, the fresh tropical fruit like mango and dragon fruit is the real highlight for me. ### Is the tap water safe to drink? No, you should never drink the tap water in Phnom Penh or anywhere else in Cambodia. Stick to bottled water which is very cheap and available at every corner store or street stall. Most hotels provide a couple of free bottles of water in your room every single day. I also use bottled water for brushing my teeth just to be extra safe during my stay. ## Transportation ### How do I get around the city? The most common way to get around is by using a remorque which is the local version of a tuk tuk. You should download the PassApp or Grab app to book your rides and avoid overpaying. It is much easier than trying to explain your destination to a driver who might not speak English. Motorbike taxis are also available but they can be a bit scary in the crazy city traffic. ### Can I rent a bicycle in Phnom Penh? You can rent a bicycle but I would not recommend it for beginners due to the chaotic traffic conditions. Some boutique hotels offer them for free for guests to explore the quieter side streets. If you do ride a bike make sure you stay alert and watch out for cars turning suddenly. I think walking is better for short distances in the Riverside area specifically. ## Budget and Money ### What currency is used in Cambodia? Cambodia uses a dual currency system with the US Dollar and the Cambodian Riel used interchangeably. You can pay for almost everything in dollars but you will likely receive your change in riel. I suggest carrying small bills like ones and fives because many vendors cannot change a hundred dollar bill. ATMs are everywhere but they usually charge a high fee for foreign cards. ### Is Phnom Penh expensive for tourists? Phnom Penh is very affordable compared to Western cities or even other Southeast Asian capitals like Bangkok. You can find a good meal for a few dollars and a nice hotel for under fifty dollars a night. Entrance fees to major attractions are also quite reasonable for what you get to see. I think it is one of the best value for money destinations in the entire region. Still have questions? The most popular answer for travelers is that using the Grab app will resolve almost all your transport stress and let you focus on enjoying the beautiful sights around the city.So you are wondering about Phnom Penh what to visit for your upcoming big trip to the Kingdom of Wonder. I have been there several times and honestly I think the city is totally underrated compared to Siem Reap. It is a place where deep history meets a really fast paced modern lifestyle which I find super fascinating. Many people ask me if one day is enough to see the main sights around the city. I usually tell them that you need at least three days to really feel the local vibe and see everything. And you have to remember that the traffic here is absolutely wild so do not plan too many things in one day. But if you are looking for the absolute essentials I have got you covered with this guide.
The Must See Historical Landmarks
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
I think starting your morning at the Royal Palace is the best way to kick off your local sightseeing adventure. The compound is huge and the architecture is just breathtaking with all those classic gold pointed roofs everywhere you look. I always recommend going early because the heat can get pretty intense by the middle of the day. You will find the Silver Pagoda inside the palace grounds which is famous for its floor made of silver tiles. It is a really spiritual place so make sure you dress respectfully with your shoulders and knees covered properly. I remember being so surprised by how quiet it feels inside the palace walls compared to the noisy city streets.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum S21
This is a place that is very hard to visit but I think it is essential for understanding Cambodia. It was a high school that was turned into a prison during the dark Khmer Rouge era in the seventies. Walking through the old classrooms is a very heavy experience that stays with you for a long time afterward. I suggest getting the audio guide because it provides so much context that you would otherwise miss during your walk. But please be mindful of the rules regarding silence and photography while you are exploring these hallowed grounds. It is a somber reminder of what the people here have endured and how far they have come today.
Vibrant Markets and Local Life
Central Market Phsar Thmey
If you love shopping then the Central Market is a place you simply cannot afford to miss out on. The building itself is a masterpiece of Art Deco design and it stands out with its massive yellow central dome. You can find almost everything here from cheap clothing and electronics to beautiful traditional jewelry and fresh local flowers. I once spent two hours just wandering around the food section trying different snacks that I could not even name. It is a great place to practice your bargaining skills although prices are usually pretty fair to begin with. Just keep an eye on your bag because it can get quite crowded during the peak shopping hours.
The Riverside at Sisowath Quay
When the sun starts to go down I always head over to the riverside area for a nice relaxing walk. This long stretch along the Tonle Sap river is where locals and tourists come together to enjoy the evening breeze. You will see people doing group exercise classes and kids playing around while street food vendors sell delicious grilled corn. I think taking a sunset boat cruise is one of the best ways to see the city skyline. It is super affordable and you get a unique view of the Royal Palace lit up against the dark sky. Does that make sense as a way to end a busy day of exploring the hot city?
Practical Tips for Your Visit
You should definitely use the Grab app for getting around the city because it saves you from haggling with drivers. It is usually much cheaper and you can see exactly where you are going on the map on your phone. I also suggest carrying small bills of US dollars because they are widely accepted alongside the local Cambodian riel. Make sure you stay hydrated because the humidity in Phnom Penh can really sap your energy if you are not careful. I have tried walking between sites but the heat usually makes me regret that decision within about ten minutes. So honestly just take a tuk tuk and enjoy the breeze while you move between your favorite city spots.
Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Silver Pagoda, Central Market, Choeung Ek Killing Fields, Sisowath Quay, Independence Monument, Wat Phnom