Cambodia

Phnom Penh

A chaotic, charming riverside capital waking to a new airport.

Local time
UTC+7
Population
2.3M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$
Affordable
  • Food$$$$$About $24 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
  • Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $26 a night for two
  • Transport$$$$$About $1.8 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇰🇭 KHR =
Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

PNHTecho International AirportNew main airport since 9 Sep 2025; about 20 km from the centre, so allow extra time.
HowCostTime
Airport Express Bus (AEB)Kouch Kanong Roundabout via AEON Mall 31500 KHRabout 1 hr
Runs 05:30-23:30 every 10 min; pay exact, no change given.
Grab / PassAppCity centrecheck locally45-60 min
App price is fixed; drivers may need help with pickup points.
TaxiCity centrecheck locally45-60 min
Agree the fare first; show clean, untorn dollar notes before paying.
Tuk-tukCity centrecheck locally60-75 min
Cheaper but slow and exposed to traffic fumes.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Phnom Penh

Getting around

Ride apps (PassApp, Grab, TADA) for fixed prices; city buses if you are on a tight budget.

  • MetroNo metro or tram. Do not plan around rail in the city.
  • Bus13 city bus lines run about 05:30–20:30. Fare is 1,500 riel; drivers give no change, so pay exact.
  • Taxi / ride apps ★PassApp, Grab and TADA show fixed prices, so no haggling. Tuk-tuks cost about US$2–3 in town and US$8 to the airport; agree the fare first if you hail one.
  • Tuk-tuk ★The easy way around town: about US$2–3 a ride. Always agree the fare before you get in.
  • Rental carNot recommended for visitors. Motorbikes rent for US$5–6 a day, but traffic is chaotic and theft is common; park in guarded areas.
  • WalkingFine for short blocks near the riverside and palace, but heat and traffic make longer walks unpleasant. Bicycles and cyclos are slow but scenic; bike hire is US$1–3 a day.
Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers the Royal Palace, the genocide memorials and a food-and-riverside evening; add a night for a slower pace in the heat.

Best for
  • HistoryRoyal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the Killing Fields memorials.
  • FoodStreet noodles, markets and riverside dinners.

Weather by month

31°23°Jan🌧 4d
33°23°Feb🌧 2d
34°25°Mar🌧 5d
35°26°Apr🌧 14d
34°26°May🌧 25d
33°26°Jun🌧 24d
32°25°Jul🌧 24d
32°25°Aug🌧 26d
31°25°Sep🌧 28d
31°24°Oct🌧 25d
31°24°Nov🌧 16d
31°23°Dec🌧 7d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Tropical and hot all year, with a dry season roughly November to April and a wet season May to October.

  • Best time: November to FebruaryHighs 31–33°C and few rain days. The most comfortable months for walking and temples.
  • Hottest in March and AprilHighs reach 34–35°C. Sightsee before 10am and rest in air-conditioning at midday.
  • Wet season May to OctoberRain on 24–28 days a month, usually as heavy afternoon showers. Mornings are often clear.
  • Humid year-roundLows stay 23–26°C, so nights are warm and sticky. Light, breathable clothes help.
  • Flooding in the peak rainsSeptember and October can flood streets. Wear sandals and allow extra time for tuk-tuks.
  • What to packLight clothes, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent; a rain jacket or umbrella for May to October; modest dress for temples.

Landmarks 13

Must-see · 8

  1. 1

    Royal Palace of Cambodia

    The official residence of the King and the city's most iconic sight, with the Silver Pagoda inside its walls. Go early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds; tickets are around $10 and shoulders and knees must be covered.

  2. 2

    Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

    A former school turned prison and interrogation center under the Khmer Rouge, now a sobering museum. Visit with a guide or audio tour for context; allow 1-2 hours and go early to avoid the heat.

  3. 3

    Killing Field

    The Choeung Ek memorial site, where thousands were executed, is a deeply moving place with a stupa of skulls. It is about 30 minutes by tuk-tuk from the center; combine with Tuol Sleng for a full understanding of Cambodia's recent history.

  4. 4

    Silver Pagoda

    Located within the Royal Palace grounds, this temple houses a floor of silver tiles and a revered emerald Buddha. Dress respectfully (no shorts or sleeveless tops) and visit in the morning when it is cooler.

  5. 5

    Wat Phnom

    The city's namesake hilltop temple, a peaceful spot with good views and a lively atmosphere with monkeys and locals. It is a short walk from the riverside; go early morning or late afternoon.

  6. 6

    National Museum of Cambodia

    Houses the world's finest collection of Khmer art, including sculptures from Angkor. The building itself is a beautiful example of Khmer architecture; a guide or audio tour is recommended.

  7. 7

    Mekong River

    The mighty Mekong is central to Phnom Penh's identity, with lively riverfront promenades and sunset cruises. Take a boat trip at sunset for great views of the city skyline.

  8. 8

    Independence Monument of Cambodia

    A striking monument in the heart of the city, especially beautiful when illuminated at night. It is a short walk from the Royal Palace and a good spot for photos.

1Royal Palace of Cambodia2Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum3Killing Field4Silver Pagoda5Wat Phnom6National Museum of Cambodia7Mekong River8Independence Monument of Cambodia

Cultural

Modern History 2

Museum 2

Market 2

Palace 1

Buddhist 2

Natural

River 2

Activities

Food 1

Football Stadium 1

Overview

History & significance

Highlights

    Day trips from Phnom Penh

    Kampot · 2 h 30 by bus

    ★★★☆☆ · Full day · 154 km from Phnom Penh

    Best way: The bus takes 2h30 directly, much quicker than the 4h42 train.

    Direct buses or shared taxis take about 3-4 hours from Phnom Penh to Kampot; a very early departure is needed for a same-day return.

    • Train4 h 42 · from $16-$25
    • Bus ★2 h 30 · from $5-$14
    • Car1 h 54 · taxi ≈ 312,000 KHR

    What to see

    • Kampot riverside
    • Pepper farms
    • Bokor Mountain
    • Durian roundabout

    Good to know

    • Start early to allow a same-day return
    • Riverside and Bokor area are the main draws

    Sihanoukville · 3 h 00 by bus

    ★★☆☆☆ · Full day · 212 km from Phnom Penh

    Best way: The bus is the fastest option at 3h and runs directly, while the train takes over 6h30.

    Buses run directly from Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville in about 4-5 hours on National Road 4; this is a long but doable return trip only if you leave very early.

    • Train6 h 36 · from $14-$30
    • Bus ★3 h 00 · from $10-$22
    • Car2 h 43 · taxi ≈ 428,000 KHR

    What to see

    • Ochheuteal Beach
    • Serendipity Beach
    • Kbal Chhay Waterfalls
    • Local seafood restaurants

    Good to know

    • Leave very early for a same-day return
    • Beach town gets crowded on weekends and holidays

    Kampong Cham · 2 h 00 by bus

    ★★☆☆☆ · Full day · 125 km from Phnom Penh

    Best way: A direct 2h bus is fast and simple for this short run.

    Buses run directly from Phnom Penh to Kampong Cham in roughly 2.5-3 hours along National Road 6/7.

    • Bus ★2 h 00 · from $7-$10
    • Car1 h 32 · taxi ≈ 254,000 KHR

    What to see

    • Koh Pen island
    • Wat Nokor Bachey
    • Bamboo bridge
    • Mekong riverside

    Good to know

    • Buses run along National Road 6/7
    • Early start needed for a comfortable return

    Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

    Plans

    Phnom Penh rewards visitors with grand royal palaces, sobering history, and a buzzing riverside food scene. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

    How long?

    What do you enjoy most?

    2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

    First-time visitors who want the Royal Palace, the national museum and the memorial sites without rushing.

    Tickets & tours
    ≈ KHR 135,000
    per person
    Taxis
    ≈ KHR 73,597
    per taxi, up to 4 people
    Day 1

    Arrive, Royal Palace and riverside

    Tickets ≈ KHR 75,000 pp · taxis ≈ KHR 19,403
    1234
    Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
    1. 1

      08:30–10:00 · ≈ KHR 40,000 (check on the day; camera fee may apply)

      Royal Palace of Cambodia Landmark quest

      Go at opening. Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered. Closed on some royal holidays, so check on the day.

      Open Daily roughly 08:00–11:00 and 14:00–17:00 · closed on some royal holidays

    2. Taxi · 473 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ KHR 4,946
    3. 2

      10:15–11:30 · ≈ KHR 10,000 (check on the day)

      National Museum of Cambodia Landmark quest

      A short walk north. Cool and shaded, good before the midday heat.

      Open Daily roughly 08:00–17:00

    4. Taxi · 1422 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ KHR 6,844
    5. 3

      12:00–13:00 · ≈ KHR 15,000–40,000 depending on the restaurant

      Fish Amok (national dish) Landmark quest

      Lunch nearby. Fish amok is the national dish; most Khmer restaurants serve it.

      Open Lunch and dinner at most Khmer restaurants

    6. 3

      16:30–16:50 · Free to view from outside

      Independence Monument of Cambodia Landmark quest

      Lit at night. A quick photo stop on the way to the river.

      Open Always visible; lit at night

    7. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ KHR 7,613
    8. 4

      17:30–18:30 · Free

      Sisowath Quay riverside walk

      Sunset along Sisowath Quay, then dinner at the night market.

      Open Always open

    Day 2

    Memorials, then markets

    Tickets ≈ KHR 60,000 pp · taxis ≈ KHR 54,193
    1234
    Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors
    1. 1

      08:00–10:00 · ≈ KHR 20,000 plus optional audio guide (check on the day)

      Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum Landmark quest

      Start early, before the heat peaks. The visit is heavy; allow quiet time after.

      Open Daily roughly 08:00–17:00 · last entry mid-afternoon

    2. Taxi · 10 km · ≈ 38 min · ≈ KHR 24,061
    3. 2

      10:45–12:45 · ≈ KHR 20,000 plus optional audio guide (check on the day)

      Killing Field (Choeung Ek) Landmark quest

      About 30–40 minutes by tuk-tuk from Tuol Sleng. Agree the fare first.

      Open Daily roughly 08:00–17:30

    4. Taxi · 9 km · ≈ 34 min · ≈ KHR 21,346
    5. 3

      14:00–15:00 · Free to enter; pay per item

      Phsar Tuol Tom Poung (Russian Market) Landmark quest

      Late lunch and a wander at Russian Market. Mostly closes around 17:00.

      Open Daily roughly 07:00–17:00

    6. Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ KHR 8,786
    7. 4

      18:30–20:00 · ≈ KHR 10,000–50,000 per meal

      BKK1 café and restaurant streets

      Dinner in BKK1. Many cafés and restaurants, mostly open until about 22:00.

      Open Mostly 07:00–22:00

    Swap in instead

    • Add a half-day to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek; go early, it is emotional and hot.
    • Take a slow boat or bus to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat if you have two spare days; check times and tickets on the day.
    • Cross the river to Areyksat for a quiet half-day of village lanes and river views, a short ferry ride from the city.

    Getting around

    • No metro or tram; the city bus network has 13 lines running about 05:30-20:30.
    • City bus fare is 1,500 riel per ride; drivers give no change, so pay exact.
    • Tuk-tuks cost about US$2-3 in town and US$8 to the airport; agree the fare first.
    • Ride apps PassApp, Grab and TADA work well and show fixed prices, so no haggling.
    • Motorbikes rent for US$5-6 a day; traffic is chaotic and theft is common, so park in guarded areas.
    • Cyclos and bicycles are slow but scenic; bike hire is US$1-3 a day.

    Where to stay

    • Riverside (Sisowath Quay) · ≈ KHR 60,000–350,000 a night
      Walk to the Royal Palace, night market and riverside bars; most tuk-tuks and restaurants are on your doorstep.
    • Royal Palace area · ≈ KHR 80,000–400,000 a night
      Quiet streets right by the main sights and the National Museum; good for early starts before the heat.
    • BKK1 · ≈ KHR 100,000–500,000 a night
      Modern cafés, embassies and mid-range hotels; a short ride from the sights and the best food street in town.
    • Tonle Bassac · ≈ KHR 120,000–600,000 a night
      Newer high-rises and malls near the Independence Monument; calm nights and easy ride-app pickups.

    Food & drink

    • Start the day with kuy teav (rice-noodle soup) or bai sach chrouk (grilled pork and rice) at a street stall; expect a few thousand riel.
    • Try fish amok (coconut curry steamed in a banana leaf) and lok lak (stir-fried beef with lime-pepper dip) at a mid-range Khmer restaurant.
    • Eat at the evening food stalls and night market near the riverside; point at what looks busy and pay in small riel notes.
    • Drink only bottled or filtered water, and be careful with ice from street carts; hotel and restaurant ice is usually fine.
    • Vegetarian and halal options are easy to find around BKK1 and the riverside; ask before ordering fish sauce or prahok.

    Tips

    1. PassApp is the most popular, transparent, and cheap way to hire tuk-tuks
    2. Visit the S-21 Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields for essential, sobering history
    3. Dress modestly when visiting the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
    4. The riverside area (Sisowath Quay) is the center for dining, bars, and tourism
    5. Carry small denominations of US dollars, which are widely accepted and used alongside the Riel
    Sources for prices and hours

      Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

      Tours & activities

      Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

      Killing Field
      Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
      • Visit the Choeung Ek memorial and the S-21 prison
      • Learn the history of the Khmer Rouge era from a guide
      • 4,257 reviews · 4.9 rating
      Entry includedGuide

      The Killing Fields & Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

      GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (4,257)

      Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

      Mekong River
      Sisowath Quay
      • Cruise the river as the sun goes down
      • Free-flow beers, sodas and a BBQ buffet
      • 1,393 reviews · 4.5 rating
      Drinks includedSunset

      Sunset Cruise-Freeflow Beers, Sodas & BBQ Buffet

      GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (1,393)

      Take this tour to unlock 4 landmark quests

      Killing Field
      Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
      Wat Phnom
      Royal Palace of Cambodia
      • Cover 18 places in one eight-hour day
      • Includes the Killing Field and S-21 prison
      • 542 reviews · 4.9 rating
      Full dayMany stops

      Exploring 18 places in 8hrs with Killing Field & S21 Prison

      GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (542)

      Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

      Royal Palace of Cambodia
      Wat Phnom
      National Museum of Cambodia
      • See nine city sights in three hours
      • Travel by traditional Khmer tuk-tuk
      • 513 reviews · 4.9 rating
      Tuk-tukShort tour

      Visiting 9 Places in 3 hours by Khmer Traditional Tuk-Tuk

      GetYourGuide · ★ 4.9 (513)

      Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

      Royal Palace of Cambodia
      Silver Pagoda
      • Tour the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
      • Continue to the Silk Islands by boat
      • 10 reviews · 4.5 rating
      Half or full daySilk Island

      Royal Palace, City & Silk Islands - Half/Full Day

      GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (10)

      Souvenirs

      Kampot pepper

      USD 6–1850–100 g · shop prices

      A Cambodian pepper with Geographical Indication status, grown in the Kampot region. It is a prized local product that carries the name of its place of origin.

      Where: La Plantation official shop or Kurata Pepper shop
      Check that the pack is sealed and shows proof of origin certification.

      Khmer krama scarf

      USD 8–201 cotton scarf · estimate

      A checked cotton cloth used across Cambodia for everyday needs, from wrapping to sun protection. It is a symbol of Khmer daily life.

      Where: Watthan Artisans, Norodom Boulevard
      Ask whether the cloth is handwoven locally, and learn the difference between cotton and silk.

      Flights

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