Top 25 Must-Do Activities in Phnom Penh, Cambodia

To comprehend Phnom Penh, one must delve into its historical context. On April 17, 1975, a ruthless military guerrilla faction led by the infamous Pol Pot seized control, unleashing a catastrophic campaign against the population. Initially, they forcibly displaced families, separating children from parents, transforming youngsters into armed soldiers, and establishing labor camps throughout the nation.

The Khmer Rouge specifically targeted professionals like doctors, lawyers, artists, educators, and intellectuals—individuals capable of independent thought who posed a potential threat to the regime. These individuals met with grim fates. The Khmer Rouge maintained power for a mere four years. By the time they were ousted in 1979, an estimated 2 million lives had been lost. This harrowing past is not far removed, occurring only four decades ago. Presently, Cambodia is actively reconstructing its infrastructure, culture, and governance, striving for a brighter future. A visit to Phnom Penh—the former stronghold of the regime—reveals a city that cherishes the traditions that endured and a society reimagining itself for progress.

Phnom Penh today is a relatively secure urban area inhabited by warm-hearted individuals. While remnants of Cambodia’s tragic recent history persist, visitors can also marvel at the stunning artifacts of the nation’s rich ancient heritage and observe the advancements made in societal recovery. There is an abundance of culinary delights, ample shopping opportunities, and an inviting atmosphere to relax, alongside an abundance of historical insights to gain. Investing a few days in this often-overlooked city is undoubtedly worthwhile.

Here are the top activities to engage in while in Phnom Penh:

1. The Killing Fields

Visiting the Killing Fields is an emotional journey. Although it may not be a pleasant experience, witnessing this site is essential for those wishing to understand the reality of Cambodia’s dark past.

The fields served as graveyards for hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children, whose remains were buried in mass graves. The sight of exposed human remains and clothing emerging from the ground are not orchestrated for dramatic effect; notably, heavy rains often reveal more bones.

During your visit, headphones will guide you through, recounting the harrowing events that transpired here, supplemented with narratives from survivors. Maintain a respectful silence as you absorb the gravity of the experience.

2. S21 Prison

Upon assuming control of Phnom Penh, the Khmer Rouge transformed a high school into a torture prison to detain and brutalize their victims. Over four years, approximately 14,000 individuals entered this facility, with only seven surviving.

Today, S21 Prison has been converted into a museum showcasing photographs of the inmates, torture chambers, and narratives that depict the cruel realities faced by the prisoners. One can observe scratch marks on the walls and bloodstains on the floors, offering a stark testament to the atrocities committed.

Outside the prison, a survivor has established a stall where he shares his story and sells a book detailing his experiences at S21.

It is common for visitors to link their trips to the Killing Fields with a visit to the S21 prison, often opting for a tuk-tuk for transportation afterwards to unwind.

3. Phnom Penh Night Market

After an eventful day of cultural exploration, immerse yourself in the modern amenities of Cambodian life at the Phnom Penh Night Market. Interact with friendly vendors and savor delectable Cambodian cuisine, from grilled skewers and noodle soups to dried seafood and refreshing fruit shakes. A selection of beverages is also available. Nearby seating arrangements allow you to gather your culinary selections and indulge in a hearty feast.

Once satisfied, peruse the shopping area filled with stalls offering an array of products, from clothing and accessories to trinkets that make for ideal souvenirs.

4. National Museum

The National Museum showcases a broad array of artifacts, from artifacts dating back to the 1600s, cultural performances featuring Khmer dancers, stone busts of Buddhist figures, and models of traditional Khmer houses. The museum comprehensively encapsulates Khmer culture, spanning both ancient times and modern days, warranting a visit of several hours to fully appreciate its numerous galleries.

The architectural elegance of the museum is remarkable, characterized by dark red clay bricks and spiraling roofs that seem to touch the sky. The surrounding lush greenery provides shaded sitting areas ideal for relaxation, as well as beautifully adorned pagodas featuring meditative Buddha statues.

Admission ranges from $5 to $10, contingent upon whether you choose to utilize an audio guide during your exploration.

5. Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre

In Cambodia, the sex trade remains a severe plight. The Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre serves as a sanctuary for former victims of sex trafficking, offering them the opportunity to acquire skills and trades that pave the way for an improved life.

Explore the boutique where you can purchase items that empower a cause. From fashion accessories to children’s toys, every product is handcrafted by Cambodian artisans working towards a brighter future.

Adjacent to the shopping area, the café provides a delightful menu, where trainee chefs prepare delectable brunches or desserts in a comfortable air-conditioned setting.

Following your meal, individuals may opt for a well-deserved massage, manicure, or pedicure.

6. The Russian Market

Many tuk-tuk operators vocally invite you to visit the Russian Market, which derives its name from its popularity among Russian expatriates in the 1980s. While you might encounter a few “Russian” items such as dolls and flags, the predominant offerings reflect traditional Cambodian craftsmanship. Expect to discover excellent souvenirs including silk scarves, spices, wood carvings, and more.

As one of the largest markets boasting a diverse range of products in Phnom Penh, the Russian Market is the ideal destination if you have limited time and wish to experience a bit of everything.

It is advisable to carry a bottle of water with you, as the market can become quite warm and exhausting.

7. Wildlife Alliance

Rest assured, the Wildlife Alliance is a sanctuary and conservation center, distinctly separate from a zoo. Established in 1995, this non-profit organization is dedicated to reinforcing protected areas and educating communities on the importance of conservation. In Cambodia, the alliance notably focuses on combatting animal trafficking and habitat preservation.

In Phnom Penh, you can partake in a tour with the Wildlife Alliance, where you will visit a local fruit market to collect fresh produce to hand-feed a group of rescued elephants. You will also have the chance to observe tigers, engage with monkeys, and visit the nursery where various wild animals are rehabilitated.

A traditional Cambodian lunch is included, alongside transportation to and from your hotel.

8. Central Market

This vast, golden-domed market located in the heart of Phnom Penh offers an extensive selection of items suitable for any vacation shopping needs. Whether you require sunglasses, a replica sports cap, or children’s clothing, the market accommodates every demand, making it easy to spend hours exploring its various offerings.

Hungry after all that shopping? The market is also lined with numerous food stalls serving fried fish, hot soup, and even fried insects and spiders.

Don’t forget your camera as there are countless unique sights to capture within the market.

9. ATV Tour

Phnom Penh’s terrain features many dirt roads, making it ideal for exploration via ATV. Join the Village Quad Bike Trails for an adventurous experience that transitions from urban life to rural landscapes.

The ATV tour commences in the city, heading towards the Killing Fields and S21 Prison. After a profound experience at these sites, enjoy a tranquil ride through the serene rural villages of Phnom Penh, passing by lush green rice paddies, traditional homes, grazing cattle, playful children, and birds in song. There is an option to stop at local shops for unique purchases before returning to the starting point.

This engaging tour lasts approximately four hours, with options for both morning and afternoon excursions.

Pro Tip: Morning tours provide cooler temperatures during the dry season, while afternoons offer drier conditions in the rainy season.

10. The Royal Palace

Constructed in the 1860s, this magnificent palace has served as the royal residence in Phnom Penh, aside from a brief period of abandonment during the Khmer Rouge regime.

The complex consists of multiple golden temples and quarters, each more captivating than the last. Situated along the riverside, visitors can enjoy picturesque views of motorboats and paddle boats while capturing moments of daily river life in Phnom Penh. Informational plaques and guides are available, providing insights into the royal family’s history and the broader historical landscape of Phnom Penh.

Visitors are advised to dress appropriately, adhering to Buddhist customs. Women should cover their knees and shoulders, while men should wear shirts with sleeves.

11. Silver Pagoda

This stunning Buddhist temple epitomizes Southeast Asian culture, featuring a gleaming golden roof and monks clad in vibrant orange robes that bring the essence of Cambodia to life.

Upon approaching the temple entrance, one immediately understands the moniker “Silver Pagoda”—the floor is adorned with 5,000 glimmering silver tiles, a gift to Buddha. To protect these tiles, visitors are prohibited from walking on them but may admire their beauty from a distance.

Ascend the grand staircase to encounter the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, encrusted with 2,086 diamonds. Adjacent to it are a bronze Buddha weighing 80 kg, a pure gold Buddha, and a silver-gold Buddha, each with its own significant narrative.

12. Wat Phnom

Given the scarcity of hills in Phnom Penh, particularly those adorned with greenery, Wat Phnom stands out as a unique feature. This pagoda is perched atop a 27-meter-high grassy mound scattered with trees, supposedly built in the 1300s. Ascend the broad staircase flanked by Buddha statues and lions, and you will encounter a traditional temple with an extraordinary purpose.

Wat Phnom is home to four Buddha statues and serves as a place for local schoolchildren to pray for success in their exams and for gamblers to seek luck in the casino. Consider participating in this practice; after all, there’s no harm in trying.

13. The Old Market

Awaken at dawn and join the eager vendors set up by 5 AM to offer an array of delightful fresh fruits.

The Old Market, known as Phsar Chas, is an authentic Cambodian marketplace revered by locals as the premier destination for fresh produce. If you are eager to taste truly fresh and organic mangoes or jackfruit, this is the place to visit.

Nestled in the Old French Quarter adjacent to the river, this market serves as an ideal commencement for your day. Relax on a bench with your freshly acquired goods while observing the bustling morning traffic created by motorbikes and food stalls catering to workers en route to their jobs.

14. The Olympic Market

If you are contemplating having a dress or custom bed linens tailored, Olympic Market is the quintessential spot to select exquisite fabrics. With three levels and extensive fabric stalls, take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options. Engage in friendly negotiations with the vendors, and seek their guidance in selecting the ideal fabric for your envisioned design.

You may encounter several tailors in the plaza capable of realizing your bespoke creations. Should you struggle to locate a tailor, simply ask the fabric vendors, who will be happy to assist you.

Additionally, be sure to explore the food carts that line the market, as they offer some of the most genuine Khmer culinary delights.

15. Friends the Restaurant

Indulge in gourmet dishes like Taco Salads, Sun-dried Tomato Hummus, Khmer Style Scotch Egg, and Seared Snapper at Friends the Restaurant in Phnom Penh.

In addition to offering some of the finest Western cuisine, this establishment serves as a training ground for young Cambodians, helping them acquire hospitality and culinary skills. Numerous staff members come from challenging backgrounds, some having experienced homelessness. Today, they are given a chance to forge a promising future.

The restaurant consistently delivers exceptional service from youth who genuinely appreciate the opportunity to serve and connect with patrons.

16. Visit Silk Island

Most of the silk scarves and cotton garments prevalent in Cambodian markets originate from Silk Island. This small island, also known as Koh Dach, offers a distinctive opportunity to experience the rural Cambodian lifestyle without venturing too far from the city.

Many local residents inhabit traditional Cambodian teak wood houses situated along dirt paths. It is common to observe silk spinning machinery beneath their homes, with women engaged in the artistry of crafting stunning accessories.

The island hosts a silk factory where caterpillars flourish and staff harvest silk. Guided tours allow visitors to purchase silk products at nominal prices. After your visit, it is recommended to seek out a delightful riverside restaurant recommended by locals for an authentic meal. Consider a dip in the river after your meal, emulating the local tradition.

Bringing a bicycle or a motorbike is advisable for the most effective exploration of the island.

17. Sisowath Quay Boardwalk

For those who visit the boardwalk in the evening, the reward is a spectacular view of the sun setting over the city, painting the horizon in vibrant oranges and reds. The boardwalk features comfortable benches where one can relax while vendors approach offering peanuts, popcorn, beer, coconuts, and more. Be sure to collect empty beverage cans for the young can collectors who may pass by.

On the main avenue opposite the boardwalk, a variety of both Khmer and Western restaurants beckon, along with bars that serve refreshing Ankor beer. Additionally, there are shops for shoe repairs, key duplications, passport photography, and haircuts, accommodating diverse needs.

18. Dine in the Dark

For a unique dining experience, consider the concept of Dine in the Dark, where guests are seated in total darkness and served meals with no visibility.

Attendees enjoy a four-course meal, relying solely on their sense of taste. The absence of sight heightens other senses, contributing to an unforgettable culinary adventure. A variety of gourmet dishes, including vegetarian options, are offered.

The initiative behind Dine in the Dark aims to raise awareness for the nearly 15,000 blind individuals in Cambodia who navigate their daily lives in darkness. The organization seeks to provide equal employment opportunities for disabled persons while offering guests a rare perspective on dining.

20. Phocea Mekong Cruises

For those in search of romance or adventure, a sunset river cruise along the Mekong is the ideal way to satisfy such cravings. Phocea Mekong Cruises offers an assortment of river adventures tailored to different preferences.

The Sunset Cocktail River Cruise provides an on-board BBQ featuring local ingredients and traditional Khmer accompaniments, alongside cocktails and wine. Enjoy your meal as you glide past the Royal Palace while the sun sets over the water. This approximately 2.5-hour experience is perfect for couples and groups alike.

Additionally, various destination cruises are available, taking guests to significant sites such as the historical capital of Udong, Silk Island, and even extended journeys up to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.

21. Bear Care Tour

Sun Bears and Moon Bears are native to Asia, yet their natural habitats are increasingly endangered. Free the Bears operates a sanctuary dedicated to conserving bear habitats and safeguarding these species, including their cubs.

Visitors to the sanctuary can observe bears joyfully playing in their enclosed forest habitats while learning about their dietary needs. Guests will participate in preparing snacks for the bears and subsequently hide them in the enclosures for the bears to discover.

The visit spans an entire day from 8 AM to 5:30 PM and includes lunch and transportation services.

22. David’s Restaurant – Handmade Noodles

At David’s Restaurant in Phnom Penh, you’ll savor the freshest noodles available. Enjoy handmade dumplings and artisan noodles, prepared from the freshest ingredients, as every dish is made from scratch. The dumpling soup ranks among the most recommended offerings here.

Beyond pasta, the traditional Amok Curry served with rice is exceptional, and the fresh spring rolls are also highly recommended. Additionally, guests can enjoy Cambodian draft beer on tap.

Moreover, the service is outstanding, and the staff is proficient in English.

23. Spa Day

After grappling with the emotional weight of your travel experiences and the harrowing history relayed at various sites, indulging in relaxation at Bliss Spa Cambodia is well-deserved.

Opt for an extravagant two-hour package encompassing a body scrub using Himalayan salts, an aromatic massage, and a scalp massage.

For the ultimate ‘Royal Indulgence,’ treat yourself to three hours of bliss with an herbal steam treatment, body scrub, Balinese massage, and rejuvenating facial.

The spa also offers Khmer massages, detox treatments, and even specialized massages for infants, catering to a range of needs in a soothing environment, all at competitive prices.

25. Volunteer with CHOICE

In Cambodia, there is a common adage: “children are not zoo animals.”

Numerous visitors arrive in Cambodia with genuine intentions to assist, particularly concerning the younger population. Unfortunately, this has inadvertently fueled a lucrative industry of orphanage scams. With many Western tourists eager to volunteer, countless “orphanages” have emerged, often filled with children whose families are willing to rent them out for Western volunteers to interact with, ultimately leading to exploitation.

To create a positive impact during your stay, consider volunteering with reputable organizations such as CHOICE, which aims to provide resources to Cambodia’s most impoverished communities. Participants can accompany CHOICE on village trips to distribute food and water without any intrusive photo opportunities or “playing with the children.” Instead, a donation of $15 to the organization ensures the continuation of resource provision while offering insight into the struggles faced by marginalized populations in Southeast Asia.

As a guiding principle for Cambodia: any organization that allows strangers to interact with their children likely does not prioritize the children’s best interests.