Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Phnom Penh lies at the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers and serves as Cambodia’s political, cultural, and commercial center. Once devastated by the Khmer Rouge regime, the city has been steadily recovering and now welcomes millions of tourists per year  In 2024, Cambodia drew over 6.7 million international visitors and aims for 7.2–7.5 million in 2025.

Top Things to Do

1. Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda – Tour the ornate Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda, whose floor is covered in thousands of silver tiles and houses statues including a gold Buddha studded with diamonds. Modest dress required, and photography is restricted inside the pagoda

2. National Museum of Cambodia – Home to one of the world's finest collections of Khmer sculpture and artifacts ranging from the Funan to Angkorian periods, all in a beautiful traditional Khmer red-brick building 

3. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S‑21) & Choeung Ek Killing Fields – A solemn but essential visit to learn about Cambodia’s dark past under the Khmer Rouge. Includes former prison cells, exhibits of victims’ stories, and a memorial stupa at Choeung Ek

4. Wat Phnom – A hilltop pagoda that gave the city its name. It’s a peaceful spot with cultural charm and colorful murals

5. Markets & Riverside Promenade – Explore Central Market (Psar Thmei) and bustling Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung), then relax or enjoy a sunset along Sisowath Quay by the river 

6. Sunset River Cruise – Take a cruise along the Tonlé Sap for scenic views and floating-boat life at dusk 

 Eat & Drink

• Street food & local flavors – Sample grilled meats, Khmer BBQ, noodle soups, and Southeast Asian snacks via food tours or markets. Longevity and hygiene vary, so join organized food crawls for safer tasting experiences

• Hip cafés & bars – The city’s drinks scene is booming with relaxed bars along Bassac Lane and riverside venues. Recommended spots include Pearl Bar and local favorites serving Khmer cocktails and international fare 

 Travel Tips

• Getting around – Tuk‑tuks and motos dominate street traffic. Use Grab (ride-hailing app) for tuk‑tuks or cars. Renting a tuk‑tuk for half a day (~30 USD) or car (~66 USD) is popular for tours

• When to go – Peak dry season from November to February offers mild weather. September–October brings heavy rain. Temperatures rarely fall below 20 °C (68 °F) .

• Safety & budget – Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, though caution is advised at night. Carry US dollars and Cambodian riel (atm widely accepted in tourist areas). Street prices are low, but stick to bottled or filtered water

• Time to stay – 2–4 days are sufficient to hit main attractions and allow time for optional day-trips such as a Mekong cruise or nearby coastal towns like Kep & Kampot 

 Where to Stay & Recommended Accommodation

• Luxury: Rosewood Phnom Penh – Panoramic views, luxury amenities, spa and pool, ideal for sunset river vistas. Excellent central location minutes from Royal Palace and markets 

• Mid‑range / Backpacker: Mad Monkey Phnom Penh in BKK1 district—vibrant hostel atmosphere, pub crawls, walking tours, and social gatherings 

• Recommended Stay: For comfort, views, and convenience, Rosewood Phnom Penh is highly recommended.