Best Phnom Penh Tours & Trips

Best Time to Travel to Phnom Penh

The most comfortable time to visit Phnom Penh is during the dry season from November to February. Temperatures during these months are pleasant, averaging 26–27°C (79–81°F), with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for sightseeing.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Phnom Penh?

The ideal length of stay for exploring Phnom Penh is 2 to 3 days. This allows ample time to visit the main attractions and gain insight into the city's culture and history without feeling rushed.

Getting Around Phnom Penh

Tuk Tuk: This is Cambodia's most iconic mode of transportation, ideal for short trips within the city. Be sure to negotiate the price before departure to avoid unexpected surcharges.

Motorcycle: Advantages include speed and affordability. However, safety is low, so choose carefully.

Ride-Hailing: We recommend using Grab for reliable and more comfortable rides.

Bus: Phnom Penh has fixed-route buses with low fares, but they run infrequently and are slow.

Must-See Phnom Penh Attractions

Royal Palace of Cambodia: This is the residence of the Cambodian royal family, featuring architecture that blends traditional Khmer and French styles. It also houses the Silver Pagoda, whose interior is adorned with numerous silver discs and Buddha statues.

National Museum of Cambodia: Located near the Royal Palace, this museum houses an extensive collection of Khmer artworks.

Independence Monument: Constructed to commemorate Cambodia's independence in 1953.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum: Dedicated to the victims of the Khmer Rouge era, it carries a heavy historical weight and maintains a solemn atmosphere. This is an essential part of your Phnom Penh tour.

Central Market: The building features a distinctive yellow dome, where visitors can browse local goods, jewelry, souvenirs, and sample street food.

Best Day Trips from Phnom Penh

Oudong: Located an hour's drive from Phnom Penh, this former royal capital of Cambodia is most famous for Phreah Reach Throap Mountain. Its ancient towers offer both historical insight and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Chisor Mountain Temple: Located on Chisor Mountain, a 1.5-hour drive from Phnom Penh. This is an 11th-century temple complex from the Angkor period.

Koh Dach: Just a short ferry ride across the Mekong River brings you closer to this tranquil island, offering a glimpse into rural Cambodian life.

Recommended Accommodation Areas in Phnom Penh

For accommodation in Phnom Penh, we highly recommend the riverside area, which is the city center. Not only is it close to major attractions, but it also offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars.

Next is the BKK1 area, which is quieter and more modern, providing more upscale hotel options.

Safety Tips for Travel to Phnom Penh

When traveling in Phnom Penh, please note the following precautions:

Beware of snatching and motorcycle bag theft: Avoid exposing or placing valuables like phones and cameras near the roadside while riding tuk-tuks or walking.

Keep a close eye on your belongings: Stay vigilant against pickpockets in crowded areas such as markets, bars, and night markets.

Transportation: When riding a tuk-tuk or motorcycle, always wear a helmet and hold onto the handlebars securely.

Exercise caution when traveling at night: Avoid remote areas, especially isolated stretches along riverbanks and industrial zones.