Welcome to Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia! Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling streets, Phnom Penh is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southeast Asia. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best attractions and things to do in Phnom Penh. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city. So grab your map and let’s start exploring!
The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Phnom Penh
- The Best Cambodia Vietnam 14
- Small Group City Tour
- Siem Reap Discovery Days Nights
- Days Private Tour Kompung Thom
- 5Day Best Cambodia Phnompenh Siem
The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Phnom Penh
1. The Best Cambodia Vietnam 14
Explore the best of Cambodia and Vietnam with a 14-day tour package! Accommodation at hotels with breakfasts included, local professional English-speaking guide, and lunches and dinners as mentioned are part of the package. The tour also includes domestic and international flights (excluding airport taxes), with pickup available from select points. Not recommended for pregnant travelers or individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the experience is non-refundable and non-amendable. Join this tour for an unforgettable adventure through Cambodia and Vietnam!
2. Small Group City Tour
Explore the history and culture of Phnom Penh on a small-group city tour. Visit the Royal Palace built by the French in 1866 and admire the beautiful Khmer architecture on the river banks. See the stunning Silver Pagoda decorated with 5,329 silver tiles and marvel at the jeweled Buddha statues and Angkor Wat-style Bell Tower.
Learn about the darkest period in Cambodia’s tragic history at the Tuol Sleng Museum, which was once a high school before being converted into a torture and interrogation center by the Khmer Rouge. Experience the harrowing stories of the victims and survivors of the regime.
Finally, visit the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, located just south of Phnom Penh, and understand the gruesome reality of the Khmer Rouge regime. This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience and a chance to appreciate the rich history of Cambodia’s capital city.
3. Siem Reap Discovery Days Nights
Explore one of Cambodia’s most fascinating sites with the Siem Reap Discovery Days Nights tour. This full-day tour includes admission tickets to some of Siem Reap’s most popular attractions, transportation to and from various sites, and dinner. Choose from multiple pickup points and times for your convenience. This experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. If you cancel less than 3 full days before the experience’s start time, the amount paid will not be refunded.
4. Days Private Tour Kompung Thom
This full-day private tour of Kompong Thom is the perfect way to explore the cultural and historical landmarks of the province. Your private guide will pick you up at your hotel lobby and take you on a tour of the famous Royal Palace Museum, where you will see the dazzling display of Khmer art and history. Then, your guide will take you to Wat Phnom, a stunning temple towering over the city. You will also visit the infamous Killing Fields and Toul Sleng Museum, where you will learn about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime. Afterward, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before heading back to your hotel. This private tour includes all entrance tickets, boat fees, and meals, so you can sit back and enjoy the experience. Book now and discover the best attractions and things to do in Phnom Penh!
5. 5Day Best Cambodia Phnompenh Siem
Explore the best of Cambodia with our 5-day tour of Phnompenh and Siem Reap. Enjoy 4 nights of comfortable double/twin/triple sharing accommodations with daily breakfast included. Experience all the must-see activities with the help of our knowledgeable local English-speaking guide. Visa stamp fees are also included in the tour package.
Transportation options include a bus ticket from PNH-REP or vice versa for USD 20 per ticket (subject to change). If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, domestic flight bookings are also available for USD 115 per ticket, including airport tax (airfare subject to change). Please note that international air tickets to and from Cambodia, as well as international airport tax, are not included in the package.
The tour starts with airport pickup at Phnom Penh airport and ends with a drop-off at Siem Reap airport. Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking and is subject to availability. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, and a child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults. A single supplement fee may apply, and surcharges for the Christmas and New Year period will be advised upon booking confirmation.
Cancellation of the tour is possible up to 24 hours in advance. Join us and take in the stunning beauty and rich culture of Cambodia!
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is the capital city of Cambodia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this vibrant and exciting city.
1. What is the best time of year to visit Phnom Penh?
The best time of year to visit Phnom Penh is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, you can expect sunny skies and warm temperatures with very little rainfall. The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and occasional flooding, making it a less desirable time to visit.
2. What are the top tourist attractions in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is home to many cultural and historical landmarks, including the Royal Palace, the National Museum, and the Genocide Museum. Other popular tourist attractions include the Wat Phnom temple, the Russian Market, and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.
3. What is the local currency in Phnom Penh and how can I exchange money?
The local currency in Phnom Penh is the Cambodian riel, although US dollars are widely accepted. You can exchange money at banks, hotels, or currency exchange shops throughout the city. ATMs are also widely available, but be sure to check with your bank ahead of time to ensure that your card will work in Cambodia.
4. What are the best places to eat in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh has a thriving food scene, with a wide variety of restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Some of the best places to eat in the city include Romdeng for traditional Khmer cuisine, Friends the Restaurant for contemporary fusion dishes, and Khmer Surin for delicious Thai food.
5. Is it safe to travel around Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is generally a safe city, but it is still advisable to take precautions, especially when traveling alone or at night. Avoid walking alone in dimly-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Use reputable taxi services and avoid using tuk-tuks or motorcycle taxis late at night.
6. What are the visa requirements for visiting Phnom Penh?
Visitors to Cambodia are required to have a valid visa, which can be obtained upon arrival at the airport or at border crossings. Tourist visas are valid for 30 days and cost $30, while business visas are valid for up to a year and cost $35. Be sure to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.
7. What is the public transportation like in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh has a limited public transportation system, but there are buses and tuk-tuks available for getting around the city. Taxis are also available, but be sure to use reputable services to avoid scams. Many visitors to Phnom Penh opt to rent a motorbike or scooter to explore the city on their own.
8. What is the weather like in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – the dry season and the wet season. During the dry season, temperatures can reach as high as 35°C (95°F), while the wet season brings cooler temperatures and frequent rainfall.
9. What are the cultural norms in Phnom Penh?
Cambodian culture is very traditional and respectful, and visitors to Phnom Penh are expected to show the same level of respect for local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, and avoid public displays of affection. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple.
10. What is the nightlife like in Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. Some of the top spots for nightlife include the Riverside area, the Bassac Lane neighborhood, and the Night Market. As with any city, be sure to take precautions and avoid overindulging in alcohol.
Conclusion
Phnom Penh is a fascinating and diverse city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, this vibrant city in the heart of Southeast Asia is sure to make an impression. With proper planning and precautions, a visit to Phnom Penh can be a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience.
The 5 Best Attractions Nearby in Phnom Penh: Frequently Asked Questions Answered
Are you planning a trip to Phnom Penh but unsure of the best attractions to visit? You are not alone. Many travelers who visit the city are often at a loss when it comes to what to see and do. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the top five attractions nearby in Phnom Penh.
1. What is the Royal Palace?
The Royal Palace of Phnom Penh is a must-visit attraction for any traveler. The palace, built-in 1866, serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia. The sprawling compound includes the Silver Pagoda, Khemarin Palace, and Throne Hall. The Silver Pagoda, named for its silver floor, houses many national treasures, including a life-sized gold Buddha weighing approximately 90 kg. The palace’s open-air architecture is a blend of traditional Khmer and European stylings, with grandeur and opulence at every turn. It is an attraction that is rich in history, culture, and architecture.
2. What is the significance of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum?
The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a stark reminder of Cambodia’s tragic past. The museum was once a high school that was turned into a prison (known as S-21) by the Khmer Rouge. Between 1975 and 1979, the prison was the site of torture and execution of an estimated 17,000 people. The museum houses photographs, documents, and other relics of the regime, offering a heart-wrenching insight into what occurred during that dark period. A visit to the museum is essential for anyone who seeks a better understanding of Cambodia’s history as well as how far the country has come since then.
3. Why is the National Museum of Cambodia a must-visit?
The National Museum of Cambodia, located near the Royal Palace, is the country’s largest archaeological and cultural history museum. The building is an excellent example of traditional Khmer architecture, with intricate carvings and design work. The museum houses artifacts from the prehistoric, pre-Angkorian, Angkorian, and post-Angkorian periods. The collection of sculptures, ceramics, and bronzes from the Khmer Empire era is expansive and impressive. The museum is an excellent primer for anyone who wants to understand the country’s rich history and culture.
4. What is the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek?
The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, located on the outskirts of Phnom Penh, is a somber testament to the atrocities that occurred during the Khmer Rouge regime. It is the site where at least 17,000 men, women, and children were executed and buried in mass graves. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site and learn about the harrowing details that occurred there. The stupa, which houses the skulls of the victims, is a poignant reminder of the lives lost during that period. The visit to the Killing Fields is a somber and sobering experience, but it is essential for anyone wishing to gain a better understand of Cambodia’s history.
5. What is the significance of Wat Phnom?
Wat Phnom, located in the center of Phnom Penh, is a temple that dates back to the 14th century. Legend has it that a wealthy widow named Penh housed four statues of Buddha on a small hill, which is now the site of the temple. The temple’s present-day design is the result of multiple renovations and alterations over the centuries, giving it a unique blend of styles. Wat Phnom is significant to the city’s history as the site where the city got its name. A visit to the temple is essential for anyone who seeks to understand the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, travel to Phnom Penh City will not be complete without visiting these five attractions. From the Royal Palace, a testament to centuries of grandeur and opulence, to the sobering and poignant reminder of Cambodia’s dark past, the attractions will offer a unique blend of culture, history, and spirituality. A visit to these five attractions provides a glimpse into the best the city has to offer. Don’t forget to include these in your itinerary when you plan your next trip to Phnom Penh.
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