Looking for things to do in Phnom Penh? Here’s what you should include in your itinerary plus the best hotels to stay in.
Thinking of things to do in Phnom Penh for a short weekend getaway from Singapore? We’ve got you covered. Only a two-hour flight away, Cambodia’s capital is the perfect mix of history, nightlife, and cuisine. The city’s known as the “Pearl of Asia” due to its 20th-century colonial French architecture. Curious now? Here are the top things to do, cafes and food spots to visit, and the best hotels to stay in Phnom Penh.
Things to do in Phnom Penh
1. Royal Palace of Cambodia
As the city’s main attraction, the Royal Palace is one place you shouldn’t miss out on. Cambodia’s royal family still resides there; because of that, you can only visit select areas, such as the throne hall. This shouldn’t stop you from marvelling at the building, even when you’re standing outside. Keep an eye out for the Silver Pagoda. The monument got its name from the five tonnes of silver covering its floor. You can also do it like the locals and picnic in the palace gardens.
Don’t forget to visit the National Museum near the Royal Palace. It houses artefacts, art pieces, and sculptures dating back to the Angkor period. There’s a mythical sandstone bird that stands over two metres!
Some tips when visiting: consider opting for a private tour if you’d like to learn more about the Royal Palace because there isn’t much information available around the establishment. The dress code is strict, so be sure your shoulders and back are covered, and wear pants or skirts that sit below the knee. We recommend visiting early in the morning as it can get busy with tourists during lunchtime.
Highlights: Unique architecture; Silver Pagoda; the model of Angkor Wat
Price: Tickets start from $15 (cash only)
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 5pm
Address: Royal Palace of Cambodia, Samdach Sothearos Boulevard 3, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
2. Tonle Sap River
When you’re done with the palace grounds, cross over to Sisowath Quay, which stretches three kilometres along the riverfront. Get into activities that break a sweat, or take it easy with a stroll and enjoy the panoramic view. Don’t forget to drop by Wat Ounalom, one of Phnom Penh’s oldest pagodas. If you’re not the sort to get seasick, we recommend going on a sunset cruise. Remember to take care of your valuables when you’re here – we’ve heard reports of pickpocketing in this part of town.
Highlights: Spot the stilted village; explore the mangrove forest; floating schools and markets
Price: Free
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours
Address: Tonle Sap River
3. Central Market
Skip shopping at the malls and pop down to the Central Market (also known as New Market) instead. Known as Psar Thmei, the market is housed in a huge art dome with four wings. You can find practically anything here, from fresh flowers, fragrant local spices, secondhand clothes, and intricate silver and gold jewellery. We spotted many colourful dresses and scarves here!
Pro tip: be prepared to bargain with the vendors for your purchases, as the prices can be steep. When you’ve shopped till you dropped, refuel with a quick drink or get snacks such as num korng (traditional Cambodian donuts). If you’re the adventurous sort, try the creepy crawlies on display. Tarantula, anyone?
Highlights: Fresh fruit; artisanal Khmer products; jewellery
Price: Free
Opening hours: Daily, 7am to 5pm
Address: Central Market, E273 & E274, 51 Street 51, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
4. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
If you’re looking for something educational to do, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (also known as the S-21 Prison). It serves as a memorial site of the S-21 interrogation and detention centre during the Khmer Rouge regime. We recommend coming in with a clear mind and mental state, because we felt a sense of dread and heaviness upon stepping into the compound, which only got heavier with the audio tour. Despite its grim name and ominous aura, the museum serves as a centre for study, research, and a reminder of how important peace is.
Highlights: Guided tours with audio aids; documentaries; meditation sessions after your visit
Price: Tickets start from $6.35 (cash only)
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 5pm
Address: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Boeung Keng Kang III, Street 113, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
5. Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
Situated on the outskirts of Phnom Penh is the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. Yes, we know it sounds grim – and it is. But it’s a significant opportunity to learn more about the Khmer Rouge and the Cambodian civil war. Choeung Ek is a former fruit orchard where the regime committed brutal mass killings. While here, visitors will go on an audio-guided tour narrated by massacre survivors.
The site is located around 30 minutes away from the city, and we find it worth visiting. Especially if you feel up for visiting the memorial stupa housing thousands of skulls of the genocide victims. It goes without saying that if you visit this memorial, it’s important to maintain respect by dressing modestly, avoiding loud noises, and not removing anything from the site.
Highlights: Guided audio tour; memorial stupa tower
Price: Tickets start from $7.62
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am to 5.30pm
Address: Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, Roluos Village, Sangkat Cheung Aek, Khan Dangkao, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
6. Venture out of the city
If you have time to spare, consider taking a day trip out of the capital! Explore places such as Silk Island, where you can learn more about Cambodia’s golden silk. Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is a protected sanctuary that houses refuge animals rescued from wildlife trafficking. Or head to Oudongk, Cambodia’s former capital city, for a slice of history. You can walk around the temples and hike up Oudong Mountain.
Our recommendation is to check out Kampot, a sleepy city in the southern part of Cambodia. It’s home to the salt farms, and is known for the Kampot pepper, one of the few peppers with a Protected Geographical Indication which guarantees authenticity. Kampot is also home to some of the best produce in Cambodia, growing uber sweet fruit and fresh veggies. We also had a relaxing time in Kep (also known as Krong Kaeb), boasting beautiful beach resorts and delicious seafood.
Things to do in Phnom Penh: Where to eat and drink
7. Bassac Street
If you’re itching for a casual beer, fun bars, or shaking some booty to thumping music, head to Bassac Street. Think of it as Cambodia’s Clarke Quay, where the energy is high and the drinks flow endlessly. Regular visitors to Phnom Penh tell us it’s one of their must-visit stops when they’re in the country, and we can see why. We saw a number of tourists on our visit and plenty of live music filled the street, which almost got us dancing as we roamed. If you’re on the lookout for bar recommendations, check out our list of bars in Phnom Penh.
Price: Free; menus vary for each location
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours
Address: Bassac Street, 8B Street 308, Phnom Penh 12301, Cambodia
8. La Melodie
Taking inspiration from Singapore’s vinyl cafes is La Melodie, a cosy cafe bursting at the seams with vinyls, collectible toys, games, and more. The menu is compact, serving only a handful of drinks, but you don’t need much to enjoy the space. Come early to enjoy a coffee and soak in the vibe. Alternatively, pop by at night if you’re looking for a pre-dinner sip. Psst: if you love stamps, visit and chat with the owner! He’s an avid collector and will happily discuss stamps for hours.
Must-tries: Milo No. 5; espresso; latte
Price: Drinks start from $2.54
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday 8am to 12am
Address: La Melodie, 261AB Preah Trasak Paem Street 63, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
9. Tube Coffee
Think of this locally grown coffee chain as the Khmer version of Luckin Coffee. It’s fast, affordable, and absolutely delicious. We got the opportunity to visit its newer outlet in Villa Keng Kang, which also housed a bubble tea and matcha concept from Koi The. With light wood furniture and huge windows letting in ample sunshine, we were tempted to join the students who were working tirelessly away on their laptops.
Many of Tube Coffee’s drinks spotlight local produce, so it’s a unique way to experience Khmer flavours! The thnol coffee is a classic, sweetened with condensed milk (similar to Vietnamese coffee!). But if you ask us, you have to try the coconut cream latte. A rich coffee cream is piped onto a cup of coconut water. Before you judge the combination, just try it. It’s both indulgent and refreshing, addictive with every sip!
Must-tries: Thnol coffee; coconut cream latte; fresh passion juice
Price: Drinks start from $2.70
Opening hours: Varies with each location
Address: Tube Coffee, multiple locations including Riverside, Koh Pich, Villa Keng Kang, and more
10. LaBaab Restaurant
Located right smack in the central business district of Phnom Penh is a hidden restaurant, known to be a top pick amongst professionals working in the area. While many patrons said it would be difficult to find, our visit to the restaurant was smooth as we headed up to the third floor of an unassuming building. This spot is best known for its modern takes on classic Cambodian countryside dishes. It’s perfect for anyone trying Khmer cuisine for the first time!
Start by sifting through the plethora of bright and refreshing salads featuring shrimp, banana blossoms, papaya, crab, and even hearts of palm! Then, order servings of spring rolls, fish amok, tofu with eggplant, whole fried fish, and more to go with fluffy white rice. End on a sweet note with some traditional desserts, and you’ll be more than satisfied.
Must-tries: Grilled chicken; fish amok; stir fried eggplant; rice paper rolls
Price: Dishes start from $6.20
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 2pm & 5pm to 10pm
Address: LaBaab Restaurant, 81 E2 Preah Monivong Boulevard (93), Phnom Penh 12201, Cambodia
Things to do in Phnom Penh: Best hotels for stays
11. Raffles Hotel Le Royal
No hotel in Phnom Penh is as iconic as Raffles Hotel Le Royal. Boasting a snowy white facade and classic colonial architecture, the grand hotel offers a luxurious stay in the city centre. The rooms have been respectfully restored to be brighter and more airy while retaining the vintage charms. There are two swimming pools to dip your toes in, after which you can head to the famous Elephant Bar for a drink or two.
Price: Starts from $377 a night
Address: Raffles Hotel Le Royal, 92 Rukhak Vithei, Phnom Penh 12302, Cambodia
12. Plantation Urban Resort & Spa
Plantation Urban Resort & Spa is directly behind the Royal Palace and National Museum, giving you easier access to tourist attractions, waterfront, and riverside entertainment. Despite its central location, you won’t feel like you’re in the city once you enter the hotel. You have the lush garden setting to thank for that! On top of the standard amenities, Plantation also features a boutique shop that stocks locally-made postcards, apparel, and jewellery.
Price: Starts from $135 a night
Address: Plantation Urban Resort & Spa, 28 Samdach Preah Thoamak Lekhet Ouk Street (184), Phnom Penh 12206, Cambodia
13. Rosewood Phnom Penh
The best way to describe this five-star hotel? Rosewood is Phnom Penh’s equivalent of Marina Bay Sands. Occupying the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower, the luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and Mekong River. Rosewood features excellent amenities such as a 22-metre indoor swimming pool, a spa offering Khmer therapies, and over six restaurants and lounges. See that thing jutting out of the building? That’s Sora, the rooftop bar that overlooks the city. Get more juicy details in our Rosewood Phnom Penh review!
Price: Starts from $535 a night
Address: Rosewood Phnom Penh, Vattanac Capital Tower, Monivong Boulevard 66, Phnom Penh 12021, Cambodia
14. The Balé
If you’re looking for accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of the city, we highly recommend this hotel. The Balé is a resort with 18 large, private suites that stand on the banks of the Mekong River. Imagine waking up to views of the dazzling water! The moment you step into the hotel, you’re greeted with a sense of serenity – the lone Buddha statue probably has something to do with this. The Balé is equipped with facilities, including a riverside infinity pool. Book a stay here if your budget allows it.
Price: Starts from $121 a night
Address: The Balé, National Road 6A, Bridge 8, Phnom Penh 12110, Cambodia
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bag and take a trip to Phnom Penh, stat!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Phnom Penh?
Most people spend two to three days, which is enough to cover main attractions and food. However, if you plan to venture out of the capital to other areas, we would recommend booking a week-long holiday.
Is Phnom Penh safe?
Yes, Phnom Penh is generally safe. However, as with any country you travel to, you should keep valuables close and stay vigilant as you move around the city. Be wary of pickpockets, phone snatching, and tuk-tuk scams.
When is the best time to visit?
We'd recommend going during the dry season, around November to March. The weather is generally cooler and you won't end up being trapped by rain.
What is the weather like in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh's climate is similar to Singapore's as it is hot and humid, with a rainy season from May to October. It's recommended to pack sunscreen and a UV umbrella if you want to avoid sunburns.
What currency is used in Phnom Penh?
The official currency is Cambodian riel. However, US dollars are also widely used. You can even make purchases using a mix of US dollars and Cambodian riel.
