How to Plan Your Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour

Looking for an exciting way to learn about the rich history and culture of Phnom Penh, Cambodia? Join a small group city tour and delve deep into the fascinating stories of this vibrant city. This article will guide you on how to book and prepare for a Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour, including the experience, highlights, full description, and booking information.

Experience

Join a small group city tour and experience a historical and cultural journey through the heart of Phnom Penh. This six-hour tour will take you to some of the most significant sites in the city and provide a unique insight into the country’s troubled past. With a knowledgeable guide to answer questions and provide expert commentary, this tour is perfect for those seeking to broaden their understanding of Cambodia’s culture and history.

Highlights

The Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the city’s highlights, including:

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Explore the magnificent Royal Palace, built by the French in 1866, and marvel at the Khmer architecture on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River. See the famed Silver Pagoda, covered in over 5,000 silver tiles, and learn about the different Khmer kings who called the palace home.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Travel to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and learn about the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge. Hear stories about the darkest period in Cambodia’s history, and gain a newfound understanding of the country’s resilience and strength.

Killing Fields Memorial (Choeung Ek)

Pay your respects at the infamous Killing Fields Memorial, located just south of Phnom Penh. Learn about the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge during its reign of terror and understand the impact it had on the country.

Full Description

The Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour is a six-hour tour that takes guests through some of the most historically significant sites in the city. The tour is conducted in English, allowing guests to follow along with ease and ask questions of their knowledgeable guide.

Guests are picked up from their hotel lobby before being taken straight to the Royal Palace. The palace, built by the French in 1866, is a stunning example of Khmer architecture and sits on the banks of the Tonle Sap and Mekong River. The palace complex is home to the Silver Pagoda, covered in over 5,000 silver tiles, as well as a vast array of Buddha statues and the Angkor Wat-style Bell Tower.

From there, the tour heads to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, located in a former high school that was infamously transformed into the Khmer Rouge’s Security Prison 21 (S-21). Here, guests will learn about the tragic history of the Khmer Rouge and its impact on Cambodia’s people and culture.

The final stop on the tour is the Killing Fields Memorial, located just south of Phnom Penh. Here, guests will pay their respects at the site where thousands of Cambodians lost their lives during the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror. The tour provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Cambodia’s resilience and strength, and how the country has moved forward from its past.

Booking Information

To book your Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour, visit GetYourGuide, where you can reserve your spot quickly and easily. The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to learn about Phnom Penh’s history and culture – book your tour today!

Frequently Asked Questions About Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. It is a vibrant city that offers tourists a unique mixture of ancient and modern culture, beautiful architecture, and vibrant nightlife. However, with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Phnom Penh to help you plan your trip.

What is Phnom Penh Known for?

Phnom Penh is known for its rich cultural heritage, as well as its stunning architecture, beautiful temples, and bustling markets. The city is home to many must-visit attractions, such as the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, and Wat Phnom. Additionally, Phnom Penh is famous for its delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and friendly locals.

How Do I Get to Phnom Penh?

There are several ways to get to Phnom Penh. If you are flying, you can take a direct flight from major cities in Asia, such as Bangkok, Singapore, or Kuala Lumpur. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or taxi from other cities in Cambodia or neighboring countries. Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, you can easily get around the city by tuk-tuk, motorbike, or taxi.

What is the Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh?

The best time to visit Phnom Penh is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, you can enjoy sunny days with little to no rain. March to June is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. July to October is the rainy season in Phnom Penh, so be prepared for occasional heavy rain showers.

What are the Things to Do in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh has many exciting things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions to visit:

The Royal Palace:

The Royal Palace is a stunning example of traditional Khmer architecture that dates back to the 19th century. The palace is home to many important buildings, including the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and the Khemarin Palace.

Wat Phnom:

Wat Phnom is a beautiful temple that sits on a hill in the center of the city. It is believed to be the founding place of Phnom Penh and is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

National Museum of Cambodia:

The National Museum of Cambodia is home to many impressive collections of ancient Khmer art, sculptures, and artifacts. It is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and art lovers.

Killing Fields and Genocide Museum:

The Killing Fields and Genocide Museum are sobering reminders of Cambodia’s turbulent history during the Khmer Rouge regime. Visitors can pay their respects to the victims and learn about Cambodia’s past.

Night Market:

The Phnom Penh Night Market is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine. The market is open every night and offers a wide range of food, souvenirs, and other merchandise.

What is the Currency in Phnom Penh?

The currency in Phnom Penh is the Cambodian riel, but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the city. It is recommended that you bring both currencies with you, as some smaller shops and markets may only accept riel.

What is the Language Spoken in Phnom Penh?

The official language of Cambodia is Khmer, but many locals in Phnom Penh also speak English. In tourist areas, you will find that most signs and menus are written in both Khmer and English.

Is Phnom Penh Safe for Tourists?

Phnom Penh is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is always a good idea to take precautions to ensure your safety. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas, and keep your valuables secure.

How Do I Dress When Visiting Phnom Penh?

Cambodia is a conservative country, so it is important to dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites. Women should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in religious sites. It is generally okay to wear casual clothing when exploring the city, but avoid anything too revealing or provocative.

What Food Should I Try in Phnom Penh?

Cambodian cuisine is a blend of flavors and influences from neighboring countries such as Thailand and Vietnam. Some of the must-try dishes in Phnom Penh include:

Amok:

Amok is a creamy fish curry that is steamed in a banana leaf. It is a favorite dish among locals and tourists alike.

Khmer Red Curry:

Khmer Red Curry is a spicy dish made with chicken, beef, or fish and a variety of herbs and vegetables. It is served with rice and is perfect for those who love spicy food.

Ban Chao:

Ban chao is a traditional Cambodian snack made from fried rice cakes with toppings of minced pork, onion and Taros root.

Conclusion

Phnom Penh is a vibrant and exciting city that offers tourists a unique experience. With so many things to see and do, it is important to plan your trip in advance. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Phnom Penh, we hope to have helped you plan your visit to this beautiful city. Remember to be respectful of the local culture and customs, and have fun exploring all that Phnom Penh has to offer!