(opening)
Cambodia is a country famous for its ancient temples, elegant pagodas, and delicious local cuisine. Siem Reap, in particular, welcomes millions of tourists annually wanting to explore the ruins of Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. But apart from the picturesque temples of Siem Reap, its capital city is also worth visiting. Phnom Penh is its largest and most populous city, home to over 2 million residents. As the country’s economic and cultural center, there are lots of things to do in Phnom Penh!
For first-time visitors, there are numerous museums, temples, and national monuments to visit. The markets and street-side stalls are perfect for food lovers wanting to savor authentic Khmer food. Although not as heavily visited as Siem Reap, visiting Phnom Penh is a great base for those who want to see everything Cambodia has to offer. If you’re visiting Southeast Asia, stop by Phnom Penh and discover its hidden gems. For travelers timing their trip, consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to plan around seasonal conditions.
Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh
Photo by Paul Szewczyk on Unsplash
Unlike its neighboring countries that experience cooler months, the weather in Phnom Penh (and Cambodia in general) is relatively hot all year round. That being said, the best time for things to do in Phnom Penh is during the dry season, particularly from November to February. During these months, humidity levels are low, making it comfortable for traveling and sightseeing. However, take note that this is a popular time to visit the city, so expect higher prices for plane tickets, accommodation, and tours.
On the other hand, if you want to avoid thick crowds, plan your visit from May to October, the country’s monsoon season. Most storms happen between August and September which causes flooding, but this is the cheapest time to visit. Phnom Penh’s flora and fauna are also at their most beautiful during the rainy days, so this is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. If you want to visit during the monsoon season, plan your trip in the early days of June to enjoy cooler weather with fewer chances of typhoons.
As much as possible, avoid visiting Phnom Penh from March to mid-May as the weather is hot and humid. Although there are fewer tourists, the heat can be unbearable for travel. You can, however, escape the heat and take a dip at the stunning Cambodia beaches, but you won’t be able to enjoy sightseeing and making the most out of your trip to Phnom Penh.
Things to Do in Phnom Penh
Photo by Rhombur on Adobe Stock
1. Visit the Royal Palace
If London has Buckingham Palace, Phnom Penh has its opulent Royal Palace. It functions as the king’s primary residence as well as a venue for various court ceremonies. Go on a tour of the palace and admire its architecture, closely reminiscent of Thai palaces, and learn about the history of the Cambodian royal family. Explore the temples and snap photos of the gardens in the palace complex. Its riverside location also gives you charming views of the Mekong River. If this is your first time visiting the city, a trip to the Royal Palace is one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh.
2. Marvel at the Silver Pagoda
Within the Royal Palace complex is the Silver Pagoda, home of the famous Emerald Buddha. Additionally, the Silver Pagoda contains other national treasures and gifts given to the Cambodian monarchs. Marvel at the lavish decorations of its interiors, decked with more than 5,000 tiles and 5 tonnes of silver. Aside from the Emerald Buddha, other highlights inside the Silver Pagoda include an 80-kilo bronze Buddha and a gold Buddha adorned with over 2,000 diamonds.
3. See Ancient Treasures at the National Museum of Cambodia
A trip to the National Museum of Cambodia is one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh to understand Khmer culture. The museum contains artifacts dating back to the 1600s, statues of national warriors, traditional Khmer house models, traditional clothes and accessories, and more. Don’t miss the Angkorian collection, the excavated Vishnu head, and pre-Angkorian artifacts. Aside from its historic treasures, the museum itself is a sight to behold, with dark red bricks and roofs with spiraling accents. For travelers planning their trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy can help you pack appropriately for Southeast Asia's tropical climate.
4. Find Various Local Products at the Central Market
Built in 1937, the Central Market in Phnom Penh stands out, thanks to its pale Art Deco exterior, a change from the traditional buildings and residential areas surrounding it. At the time of its construction, the indoor market was the largest of its kind in Asia. In the market, find an assortment of local goods, handicrafts, and fresh produce. Whether you’re an avid shopper or a tourist looking for affordable souvenirs, you can find anything and everything you need at the Central Market.
5. Visit the Wildlife Alliance center
The Wildlife Alliance center, referenced by Rough Guides, is a Phnom Penh activity providing refuge to rare and endangered animals. Sprawling across 1,200 hectares of land, the zoo and wildlife center houses elephants, macaques, leopards, tigers, and other animals rescued from poachers and illegal traders. Visitors can also get a chance to interact with the animals, guided by zookeepers and staff.
Photo by pisethnika on Pixabay
6. Go on a Food Tour Around Phnom Penh
One of the best things to do in Phnom Penh is exploring its culinary delights. And the best way to learn about its cuisine is by going on a food tour. Led by a local foodie, the tour lets you in on the best mainstream and off-the-beaten-path restaurants and stalls in the city while sampling their specialties. You can choose between morning, afternoon, or evening tours and have the option to join a group tour or a private tour. For travelers planning their itinerary, checking a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy is less relevant than understanding Phnom Penh's dry season (November to February) for optimal touring conditions.
7. Witness a Cambodian Living Arts Show
Cambodian Living Arts is a non-profit organization that preserves and revives traditional Khmer arts. Surviving masters train younger artists in these centuries-old traditions, passing on skills in dance, song, and music. Daily shows at the National Museum showcase Khmer performances throughout the years. For a complete experience, enjoy the show with a traditional dinner. This cultural immersion offers a genuine look into Cambodia's heritage, a perfect complement to your exploration of other local attractions. For travelers planning a broader itinerary, consider a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to time your future trips, or simply focus on the rich offerings within Phnom Penh itself.
8. Hop on a Boat to Koh Dach
Escape the busy streets of Phnom Penh and head to Koh Dach. Also known as Silk Island, this quiet countryside island hosts a large silk weaving community. Learn about the silk weaving process: from harvesting silkworms to the spinning process. As you explore the island, watch workers create stunning designs using traditional patterns and styles. Before you leave, purchase a silk scarf or two. For those planning a longer stay, checking a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy might help with packing, though Koh Dach’s climate is tropical year-round.
9. Join a Cooking Class
Cooking classes should definitely be on the list of things to do in Phnom Penh, especially for foodies. Cambodian cuisine is known for incorporating different spices, fermented pastes, and coconut milk. Take the flavors of Khmer cuisine home and participate in a cooking class. Join your local chef and purchase fresh ingredients at a market before learning the know-how of creating your favorite Cambodian dishes. After that, you'll have no problems recreating an Amok trey, Kuy teav, and other traditional dishes.
10. Wander Around Wat Phnom
Perched on a hill in the city, Wat Phnom is a gorgeous pagoda that symbolizes the capital’s name. Built in 1372, the pagoda houses four statues of Vishnu, Buddha, Indra, and the Fat Buddha. It underwent several reconstructions and restorations, but its ivory stupa and ornate temples remain. On your visit, you may encounter devotees or school children bringing small offerings, praying, or meditating. With its elevated location, lush greens, and charming gardens, Wat Phnom is a welcome change from the heat of the city.
11. Learn a Bit of Cambodian History at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Visiting the Killing Fields isn’t a pleasant nor easy experience, but it allows you to understand and delve deeper into the history of Cambodia. There are over 300 killing fields spread throughout the country during the dark days of the Khmer Rouge, but the one at Choeung Ek is the most famous. When visiting, it is highly recommended to get an audio guide or join a guided tour to truly grasp the events of the past. For those planning their trip, consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy won't help here, but a local weather check is wise.
12. Browse the stalls at a local market
Originally known as Phsar Tuol Tom Poung, the Russian Market took its name after being popular among Russian expats in the 1980s. It is a large market with a wide array of goods sold: from Russian dolls, odd souvenirs, local wooden handicrafts to Cambodian silk. Temperatures in the market can rise during the day, so it’s best to visit during the early morning. Nonetheless, this is the best place to work on one’s haggling and bargaining skills. For other shopping options, consider the Central Market, Night Market, Orussey Market, or Olympic Market, each offering a distinct atmosphere and selection of goods.
13. Walk around Sisowath Quay
Going for a leisurely walk around Sisowath Quay is one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh after a busy day. Numerous benches let you sit back, relax, and enjoy the riverside views. You can also spot groups exercising or doing aerobics. At dusk, locals and tourists flock to watch the orange glow of the sunset. The quay comes to life in the evening, with restaurants, cafes, and bars opening. For family fun, nearby options include a visit to the Wildlife Alliance center or a bounce at Fly Phnom Penh Trampoline Park. Those interested in traditional art can appreciate performances by Cambodian Living Arts, while shoppers browse Central Market or the Night Market for local goods.
14. Cruise along Mekong River
A cruise along the Mekong River is a quintessential Phnom Penh experience for first-time visitors. Options include sunset cocktail cruises with drinks and traditional side dishes, or sightseeing tours that offer an escape from the city's traffic. A cruise also provides a different perspective of the city skyline. For those planning their trip, consider checking a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to find the best season for river travel. Additionally, if you are looking for more family-friendly activities, you can enjoy fun rides at a local amusement park, as sourced facts list Fly Phnom Penh Trampoline Park as a family activity.
15. Gain Insight on Buddhism in Cambodia at Wat Ounalom
Wat Ounalom is one of the most important temples in all of Cambodia. As the most prominent and oldest pagoda, this is the headquarters of Buddhism in Cambodia, built in 1443. This is also where you can find one of Buddha’s eyebrow hairs, hence its name. The pagoda suffered major damages during the Khmer Rouge era but has been restored since. Go on a tour of Wat Ounalom and learn about the teachings and philosophies of Buddhism in the country.
Photo by sharonang on Pixabay
16. Explore more of Phnom Penh's attractions
While Angkor Wat is a famous site, it is located in Siem Reap approximately five hours from Phnom Penh, and is not included among the 30 things to do in the city. Instead, consider other Phnom Penh attractions. For family fun, enjoy rides at a local amusement park such as Fly Phnom Penh Trampoline Park. Browse the stalls at a local market like Central Market, Night Market, Orussey Market, or Olympic Market. Appreciate traditional art at a local arts association such as Cambodian Living Arts. For wildlife, visit the Wildlife Alliance center referenced by Rough Guides. You can also have a unique dining experience in Phnom Penh.
17. Have a unique dining experience in Phnom Penh
If you’re up for something unique, consider a meal at a restaurant that offers a distinctive concept. One such venue is Dine In the Dark, which stemmed from the reality that about 15,000 blind people in Cambodia need work. At Dine In the Dark, enjoy a 4-course meal in complete darkness, heightening your other senses for an unforgettable experience. For more ideas, explore a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy or check out things to do in Pattaya, Thailand.
18. Eat Your Way Through Phnom Penh Night Market
Treat yourself to cheap yet satisfying eats at Phnom Penh Night Market! The market offers a wide range of Khmer cuisine, including grilled meat skewers, noodle soup, fried food, and fruit shakes. Tables and chairs are available nearby for enjoying your meal. Small stalls and shops around the market sell souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and bags. If you're planning a longer trip, consider consulting a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for seasonal travel tips.
19. Enjoy fun rides at a local amusement park
If you are traveling with children, a visit to a local amusement park should definitely be on your list of things to do in Phnom Penh! For a family-friendly activity, consider Fly Phnom Penh Trampoline Park instead. Although not as grand as Hong Kong Disneyland, these venues are great for family bonding and people watching.
20. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
If you want to get a deeper understanding of the events of the Khmer Rouge, visiting the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh. Formerly a high school, it became an interrogation site, prison, and torture center. It offers a sobering look into Cambodia’s dark past, providing context that is essential for travelers seeking to understand the country’s history—much like how a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy helps plan a trip. It’s not the most exciting place to visit, but it gives you a better understanding of Cambodia’s dark past.
Photo by saiko3p on Adobe Stock
21. Take Photos of the Independence Monument
In the heart of Phnom Penh’s city center is the Independence Monument, signifying Cambodia’s freedom from the French colonizers from 1863 to 1953. It is the center of the Independence Day and Constitution Day festivities, but you can go here on a regular day to admire the monument. The Independence Monument itself is a beautiful sight, especially on sunsets, and learning about its significance makes it an even more meaningful place to visit.
22. Discover Phnom Penh's Street Food
Joining a street food crawl is instantly one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh. After all, you can enjoy both the food and sights of the city. Although Asian street food has a reputation for causing food poisoning to some tourists, this is also one of the must-try food. There are plenty of stalls where you can try classics like deep-fried snacks and noodles. For adventurous eaters, there are exotic ones like fried insects or pig intestines.
23. Appreciate traditional art at a local arts association
Another place to visit if you’re looking for traditional Khmer art is at a local arts association. The establishment was founded in 1994 by a group of students and since then, the association showcases traditional cultural shows on certain days. Visitors can also catch shadow puppet theater, folk dance, and classic Apsara dancing. For a broader experience, consider visiting Cambodian Living Arts, the traditional arts organization recommended for its performances.
24. Meditate At Wat Langka
Wat Langka is one of the few pagodas founded by Ponhea Yat, the last king of the Khmer Empire. It initially housed different Buddhist scriptures and served as a place where Cambodian and Sri Lankan monks would meet. Today, the pagoda hosts meditation sessions supervised by English-speaking monks. Entrance to Wat Langka is free, but be sure to wear the proper attire when visiting places of worship.
25. Feel the Adrenaline Rush on an ATV Tour
Take a break from the congested streets of Phnom Penh and head to the dirt roads on an ATV! Going on an ATV tour is easily one of the best things to do in Phnom Penh for adventure junkies, best enjoyed in the morning to escape the heat of the dry season. Most ATV Tours explore Killing Fields and the S21 prison, offering a different way to visit these grim places. Follow through your tour with a visit to the rural villages of Phnom Penh.
Photo by nheanpiseth oum/EyeEm on Adobe Stock
26. Savor a Bowl of David’s Restaurant’s Handmade Noodles
Enjoy a bowl of handmade noodles paired with dumpling soup at David’s Restaurant. From the street, chefs toss and twirl dough for noodles and dumplings, beckoning you inside. Try their Amok Curry with rice and fresh spring rolls as well. David’s Restaurant is a short walk from the National Museum of Cambodia. For other local flavors, consider browsing the stalls at a local market like Central Market or the Night Market.
27. Pay a visit to the Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre
Despite being a conservative country, trafficking is still an issue in Cambodia. At the Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre, get a chance to help the victims of trafficking by having a meal or by purchasing souvenirs. Proceeds go to medical support, therapy, and counseling services as well as helping free women from sex trafficking. It may seem like a small thing, but it is one of the most meaningful things to do in Phnom Penh.
28. Shop at Orussey Market
Unlike most markets in Phnom Penh, Orussey Market is usually cramped, hot, and crowded. However, it offers a unique off-the-beaten-path opportunity for tourists to observe daily life in these markets. You won’t be able to find that many souvenirs and tourists, but it is a great way to see the locals going about.
29. See the Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk
Near the Independence Monument is the Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk, another important monument in the city. It commemorates the former King Norodom Sihanouk who helped liberate Cambodia from French colonialism in 1953. His memorial status, along with the Independence Monument, is a reminder of this tremendous period in history.
30. Dine at Friends the Restaurant
For travelers who miss eating Western food, Friends the Restaurant offers affordable yet delicious meals. The restaurant also serves as a training ground for teenagers who came from a troubled past, helping them earn a living. Not only do you get to enjoy taco salads, seared snapper, and other gourmet dishes, but you also helped in securing a good future for these young locals. If you are planning your travel timing, consult a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy for similar climate considerations, though Phnom Penh's tropical heat is consistent year-round. This dining experience pairs well with other local activities, such as browsing the stalls at a local market or exploring more of Phnom Penh's attractions.
Enjoy the Many Things to Do In Phnom Penh!
While most tourists head to Siem Reap when visiting Cambodia, its capital city is also worth visiting. There are plenty of historical, cultural, and modern activities for every kind of traveler. Go on a day cruise along the Mekong River, watch a traditional art performance, or visit its museums and galleries. On the other hand, other activities also give you a glimpse into its tumultuous past, particularly during the Khmer Rouge. Nonetheless, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable time at Phnom Penh.
