Key points
- Phnom Penh blends history and modernity, with highlights like the Royal Palace, Wat Phnom, and the Silver Pagoda.
- Dive into Cambodia’s history by visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields.
- Experience local culture at the Russian Market, perfect for beautiful souvenirs and Cambodian street food.
- Cycling with Baja Bikes is an ideal way to explore Phnom Penh, with access to hidden gems and beautiful routes known only to locals.
- French colonial influences are visible in the architecture, such as the old post office and the Central Station.
- Visit Phnom Penh between November and February, the best time to travel due to the pleasant dry season.
Thinking about a trip to Phnom Penh and wondering what you absolutely must see? You’re in the right place! I recently visited Cambodia’s remarkable capital and have listed all my favorite hotspots for you. Phnom Penh is full of surprises, from impressive temples to cozy and bustling markets… And that’s not even mentioning the divine food. Read on and dive into my journey!
The history of Phnom Penh
Let’s take a step back in time. Phnom Penh, once called the ‘Pearl of Asia’, is steeped in history! It became the capital of Cambodia in 1434. Thanks to the French (1863-1953), the city boasts a charming mix of Khmer and colonial architecture. This is evident in the wide boulevards and stately buildings like the old train station. That European touch adds an extra charm to the city today, if you ask me!
But Phnom Penh also has a dark past… During the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979), the city turned into a ghost town! The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields (Choeung Ek) reveal the impact of this horrific period. Definitely worth a visit; I found it incredibly impressive and moving. Book your tickets in advance through this link.
Did you know? Phnom Penh is named after a woman! According to legend, Lady Penh once found four Buddha statues in the Mekong and built a temple on a hill; Wat Phnom, the beating heart of the city!
Top attractions in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh has something for everyone. This fantastic destination exudes history, but also boasts an impressive culture and a wealth of top attractions. Unique experiences guaranteed! Read on for all my favorite must-sees and get a complete picture of the city, perfect for your city trip.
Discover Mekong Island on the Baja Bikes tour
I always start my city trip with a Baja Bikes tour. This way, I get a good overview of the city and everything the destination has to offer, through the eyes of a local guide. The Phnom Penh bike tour turned out to be completely different than I expected—in a good way! Instead of racing through the busy city, we crossed the Mekong and cycled into the countryside. What a contrast! Narrow paths, rice fields, and small farming villages where life moves at a completely different pace than in the city. The locals waved kindly as we passed, and I felt completely immersed in the real Cambodia.
Along the way, we stopped at a traditional silk weaving workshop, where I saw how this ancient craft is passed down from generation to generation. Truly impressive to see the patience and precision involved! And then the tofu skin factory… I never knew such a thing existed! Here, I got a glimpse of how tofu is processed into that thin, edible layer you often find in Asian dishes.
The combination of stunning views, local encounters, and unique crafts made this tour a must-do for me. A perfect way to escape the city’s hustle and discover a completely different side of Phnom Penh! Book the Phnom Penh bike tour with Baja Bikes here.
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace? Definitely not to be missed! This fairy-tale complex is home to the king, but honestly, I felt a bit royal myself amidst the golden roofs and perfectly manicured gardens. The Khmer architecture is impressive enough, but the real showstopper is the Silver Pagoda. Get your tickets for the Royal Palace here.
Did you know the floor here consists of more than 5000 (what?! yes, really!) silver tiles? I almost didn’t dare to walk—like I was accidentally standing on a treasure map! And then there’s the Emerald Buddha statue, surrounded by thousands of gemstones… Pure opulence. What made this visit so special? The combination of history, culture, and that almost magical atmosphere. Truly a place where you can feel the grandeur of Cambodia!
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields
Tuol Sleng, or S-21, was once just a schoolyard full of running children until the Khmer Rouge turned it into one of the most feared prisons. Now it’s a museum that leaves you speechless. As you walk through the old classrooms, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on you. The photos, stories, and remnants won’t leave you indifferent. It’s confronting, but also so important to see and understand what happened here.
And if you think that’s intense, then Choeung Ek, better known as the Killing Fields, is the next step to truly grasp this history. The memorial center, with the stupa filled with victims’ skulls, reminds visitors of the atrocities that took place here. Both places are raw, impressive, and absolutely essential if you want to understand Phnom Penh’s past.
Wat Phnom
Wat Phnom felt like a little oasis amidst the chaos of Phnom Penh. As I walked up the hill, I heard the soft beating of a gong and saw locals burning incense and praying for luck. According to legend, the entire city began here; Lady Penh found Buddha statues in the river and built this temple on a hill. Pretty cool to stand on the spot where Phnom Penh literally got its name!
The atmosphere was serene, almost magical! A break from the honking and hustle, with a breeze through the trees and a beautiful view over the city.
My tip? Bring some small change to make a wish at the temple… You never know!
The Russian Market
The Russian Market, or Psar Tuol Tom Pong, was truly an adventure for me! As soon as I entered, I was surrounded by an explosion of colors and scents. From beautiful silk and artistic wood carvings to delicious street food. And at the Russian Market, I found the most unique souvenirs for back home! Of course, I couldn’t resist picking up some local crafts as a memento of my amazing trip through Cambodia.
And oh, the food! I dared to try Amok, a delicious curry with coconut milk, and Bai Sach Chrouk, a tasty dish with rice and pork. I really felt part of the local culture as I wandered between the stalls.
Tips for visitors
A visit to Phnom Penh can seem overwhelming with so many attractions and activities. In the table below, I provide practical tips to help you make the most of your trip.
| Visitor Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | The months of November to February are perfect for exploring Phnom Penh. With pleasant temperatures between 25-30°C and the dry season, it’s ideal for discovering the city by bike, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. |
| Be mindful of the rainy season | From May to October, you may encounter heavy showers, usually in the afternoon. Cycling can be challenging, but the lush landscape is at its most beautiful. Don’t forget to bring a light raincoat if you’re traveling during this period! |
| Explore the local cuisine | Be sure to try local dishes like Amok or Bai Sach Chrouk at the Russian Market. It’s a great way to experience Cambodian culture! |
| Take time for the culture | Don’t just explore the major attractions, but also delve into local traditions and crafts. Visit a silk weaving workshop or a local market for unique souvenirs. |
| Cycle through the city | A bike tour with Baja Bikes is a great way to discover hidden gems and experience the daily life of the locals. Purchase your tickets online in advance on the website. |
