Phnom Penh is a city full of history, culture, and local charm. There are many places to see, markets to explore, and delicious food to try. If you’re planning to visit, this guide will help you know some of the interesting things to do in Phnom Penh and experience it like a local.
Pro Tip: Check our list of interesting things to do in Siem Reap too!
1. Explore the Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks that offers a glimpse into Cambodia’s royal history with its stunning Khmer architecture and golden rooftops. While in the palace, don’t miss the Ramayana murals too!
2. Join a Sunset Cruise and Evening City Tour
Enjoy the relaxing sunset cruise along the river, sipping drinks as you watch the stunning views, and then continue your adventure with a city tour. Book your tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
3. Walk Around the French Quarter
Explore Phnom Penh’s French Quarter, where colonial-era buildings, charming cafés, and wide boulevards give you a taste of the city’s past. It’s a great area to slow down and soak in the city’s European influence.
4. Join a Half-Day City Tour
For half a day, you’ll visit the Royal Palace, see the Independence Monument and King Father Statue, the Central Market for local snacks and fruits, and Wat Phnom, where you can join locals and travelers in praying for good luck. You can book this half-day city tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
5. Shop at the Russian Market
No trip to Phnom Penh is complete without experiencing the Russian Market. This lively bazaar is packed with everything from souvenirs and handcrafted goods to street food and local fashion.
6. Enjoy Sunset Views at Sundown Social Club
At sunset, visit the Sundown Social Club for a laid-back rooftop experience. With great cocktails and a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy city views!
7. Eat at Mr. Crab
Mr. Crab is a great place for dinner, as they offer delicious crab dishes cooked with bold Cambodian flavors. A must-visit for food lovers!
8. Visit Riverfront Park
Walk along Phnom Penh’s Riverfront Park, where you can enjoy river views and watch boats pass by.
9. Eat at Wild Creative Bar and Eatery
Stop by Wild Creative Bar and Eatery and try their fresh spring rolls. This cozy café is a great place to take a break and enjoy some delicious, locally inspired food. Oh, and if you’ve got a sweet tooth like me, you have to try their chocolate chip pancakes, they’re delicious!
10. Join a Street Food Tour
This street food tour has multiple stops. You can try a traditional Cambodian dish, visit a local market for more Khmer flavors, and enjoy a variety of local dishes with beer and live music! You can book this street food tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
11. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Visit this former high school that was turned into a prison during the Khmer Rouge era. To learn more about Cambodia’s history, you can book this activity here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
12. Try Cambodian Coffee at Brown Coffee & Bakery
Experience Phnom Penh’s coffee culture by trying their locally brewed coffee at Brown Coffee & Bakery, known for its quality coffee and inviting atmosphere.
Now that you’ve got a list of interesting things to do in Phnom Penh, why not take the adventure further? If you want a hassle-free way to explore Indochina, I highly recommend the same tour I joined. This tour took all the stress out of planning and let me fully enjoy the experience. Check it out here!