Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts, from the chaotic inner-city, to the peaceful riverside esplanade that overlooks the Tonle Sap, Bassac and Mekong rivers. The city has a diverse history evident in the varied architecture, from the beautiful 19th-Century French colonial buildings to the more recent Bahaus-style structures with traditional Khmer influences. To gain an insight into this intriguing city, you can join a tour with like-minded travellers, or even opt for a private and more personalised touring experience.
Don’t miss these Phnom Penh attractions
- Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
- Walking tours of The Killing Fields
- Visiting the Central Market
- Wildlife tours at Phnom Tamao Rescue Centre
- City food tours
City sights and monuments
It’s hard to know just where to start when visiting a new city, so to ensure you don’t miss any noteworthy sites, join a group walking tour of Phnom Penh. An informative guide leads you to iconic attractions including the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and National Museum, and provides you with interesting facts about the significance and history behind each one.
Tuk-tuk tours are a popular option for travellers incorporating a traditional means of transport to discover the surrounds, providing a snapshot of the city’s sights from a different perspective. Coach tours are also common, covering many of the city’s monuments within a day, from the ancient Wat Phnom temple to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields.
Khmer cuisine
Buzzing fresh food markets, street carts and stalls are at every twist and turn in Phnom Penh and a great way to discover the stand-out dining spots is by joining a food tour. Foodies unite on these guided group tours, sampling fresh produce and learning about Cambodian cuisine at local markets including Boeung Keng Kang and Kandal markets.
A traditional cooking class is another great activity, introducing you to the unique methods and flavours in Khmer cuisine. Many classes incorporate a visit to the markets to begin with, offering a true farm-to-table experience. Learn how to prepare authentic Khmer dishes, and then unwind and enjoy your delicious home-cooked meal.