Top Things to Do in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

About the City

Phnom Penh, a vibrant whirl of tuk-tuks, golden spires, and bustling markets, is the pulsating heart of Cambodia. Imagine a city where the Mekong River's gentle flow is backdrop to the harmonious chaos of urban life, where locals exchange friendly 'chum-rips' (hellos) amid scents of sizzling street food. Here, the Royal Palace shines with its majestic architecture, and the National Museum holds treasures of Khmer history, inviting endless exploration. Yet, the city isn't without its thorns. Traffic buzzes in a symphony of honks, and sometimes the eagerness of street vendors verges on persistence. Like any rose, it's beautiful, but you might find a petal or two out of place. The remnants of history are double-edged; the haunting Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields nearby offer somber reflections on the past, serving as important but heavy history lessons. Despite the occasional downpour from the heavens, which seems to wish to compete with its Asian neighbors, Phnom Penh remains a charming enigma. A city of contrasts where the fragrant lotus flowers float upon the grit of urban sprawl, and local markets sit in the shadows of growing skyscrapers. Visit for the adventure, stay for the warmth of its people and the zest of its culture. It's an authentically Cambodian rollercoaster ride of experiences.

Things to Do in Phnom Penh

Bite into Bai Sach Chrouk!

Food & Drink

Start your morning with a sizzle! Bai Sach Chrouk is the breakfast of Cambodian champs. Imagine thin slices of pork marinated in coconut milk or garlic, slow-grilled over charcoal to give you that swe...

Paddle Away in a Kayak

Outdoors

Water you waiting for? Grab a kayak and make a splash on the majestic riverside. Let the currents guide you for an up-close peek at local river life, houseboats, and maybe even some friendly fish! Jus...

Roll With the Rickshaws

The Unexpected

Ever thought of reliving the good ole days with a classic rickshaw ride? Cruise the city streets of Phnom Penh in style, sit back, and wave like you're the monarch of the Mekong! It's pedalin' fun min...

Refine Your Palate with Pepper

The Unexpected

Pepper pals, this one's for you! Cambodia is famous for its Kampot pepper, and here's your chance to go on a spice odyssey. Visit a pepper farm within easy reach of Phnom Penh, where the pepper grows ...

Flutter Among Butterflies

The Unexpected

Who's up for a magical mystery tour with fluttery friends? Head over to a butterfly garden where nature's tiny winged artists flirt with the flowers! It's like walking through a living kaleidoscope, w...

Play Gatekeeper in a Board Game Cafe

The Unexpected

Calling all board game buffs! It's time to roll the dice and show off your strategic supremacy in a cozy cafe. Whether you're the type to build empires, solve mysteries, or just wreak monopolistic may...

Rock the Climbing Wall

Outdoors

Ready to reach new heights? Harness up and conquer the climb! Show those walls who's boss in an adrenaline-pumping urban rock-climbing extravaganza.

Paddle Away in a Kayak

Outdoors

Feeling paddly? Kayak your way through the urban waterscape of Phnom Penh for a splash-tastic river adventure. Glide alongside the locals and experience the city from a duck's-eye view!

Riverside Cycling Exploration

Outdoors

What's better than two wheels and a breeze by the river? Gear up for a breezy ride along the scenic Tonle Sap River! It's the best way to get moving and grooving, taking in the sights and sounds of th...

Botanical Bliss at Royal Gardens

Outdoors

Get your green on at the Royal Gardens, a sweet escape from the buzz of the city. The gardens are a prime spot for flora fans, peace seekers, and anyone who appreciates a good palm tree! Amble past th...

Nibble on Num Banh Chok!

Food & Drink

Twirl your fork around a plate of Num Banh Chok, often hailed as the Cambodian 'breakfast of champions'! This delicate rice noodle dish is dressed in a fragrant fish gravy and loaded with crisp veggie...

Glide through the City's Past at French Colonial Buildings!

Sights

Time-travel to the colonial era as you glide past the grandeur of Phnom Penh's French colonial buildings. Snap up those chic photo ops, saunter along the wide boulevards, and feel the echoes of histor...

Dive into the Central Market's Labyrinth!

Sights

Ready for a maze of market madness? Central Market, or Phsar Thmei as the locals call it, is a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and chaotic charm. Haggle for a bargain, try to keep a straight face, and...

Pedal Through the Past at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Sights

Hop on your trusty two-wheeler and gear up for a ride through history at the Choeung Ek Genocide Center. This isn't your typical scenic bike route; it's a journey through the somber remnants of a trag...

Go Treasure Hunting in Russian Market

Sights

Sharpen your bartering skills and dive headfirst into the bustling labyrinth of Russian Market! You'll find everything from silks to silver, car parts to curios, each with a story more fascinating tha...

Cool Off in the Cambodian Cultural Village

Sights

Beat the Phnom Penh heat by diving into the diverse world of the Cambodian Cultural Village. This isn't your regular ol' museum; it's a living showcase of the kingdom's heritage. Watch traditional dan...

Savor Succulent Beef Lok Lak!

Food & Drink

Step right up for a sizzling plate of Beef Lok Lak! This Cambodian staple will have you dancing with flavors; velvet cuts of beef wok-tossed with a lip-smacking pepper-lime sauce. Serve it up on a bed...

Sip on Sra Atouk!

Food & Drink

Swirl, sniff, and sip the day away with Sra Atouk, Cambodia's twist on fruit punch! This fruity beverage will knock your flip-flops off with its sweet, tangy mix of local fruits and a splash of palm s...

Chomp on Cha Houy Teuk!

Food & Drink

Get ready for a jelly party in your mouth with Cha Houy Teuk, the jiggly treat that's a blast of coolness! Scoop up this rainbow-colored dessert made from rice flour jelly, and float away in its cocon...

Sneaker Hunt in the City

The Unexpected

Ready to treasure hunt for kicks? Phnom Penh's got a shockingly hip sneaker scene. Whether you're a sneakerhead or just want some comfy shoes for temple trotting, the hunt is on for the coolest pair!