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The 10 Best Unique Things To Do In Phnom Penh

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Phnom Penh is both the capital and largest city of Cambodia, located in the heart of the country along the banks of the Mekong River. As a bustling metropolis with a rich history and culture, Phnom Penh offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors busy. From exploring ancient temples to sampling delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best things to do and see in Phnom Penh, so you can plan your trip and make the most out of your visit.

The 10 Best Unique Things To Do In Phnom Penh

  1. Full Day Phnom Penh City Tours
  2. Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour Silver Pagoda Genocide Museum Killing Fields
  3. Koh Dach Silk Island and Mekong River Sunset Cruise Tours from Phnom Penh
  4. Experiences Phnom Penh 3 Days Private Tours
  5. Phnom Krom for Sunset Cycling Tour
  6. Phnom Penh to Battambang 1 Day Road Sightseeing English Speaking Driver
  7. Half Day Tour of Tuol Sleng and Choeng Ek Killing Field
  8. Phnom Penh 2 Day Tour
  9. Phnom Penh Tuol Sleng S21 Prison and Quad Bike Tour
  10. Private Tour Phnom Penh City Tour Half Day

The 10 Best Unique Things To Do In Phnom Penh

1. Full Day Phnom Penh City Tours

Phnom Penh is a must-see city in Cambodia with hidden treasures and a rich but troubled past. With the Full Day Phnom Penh City Tour, explore the city’s top attractions such as the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom with a private English-speaking tour guide. Learn about Cambodia’s violent past at the infamous Killing Fields where the Khmer Rouge history is brought into sharp focus. The tour includes hassle-free round-trip transport from your hotel, but lunch and drinks are not clearly mentioned in the program. There may be a surcharge for special requests on drinks and meals. Insurance, gratuities, and personal expenses are also not included in the tour. Join us for an exciting day of exploring Phnom Penh and its history.

2. Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour Silver Pagoda Genocide Museum Killing Fields

The Phnom Penh Small Group City Tour takes you on a full-day sightseeing excursion to the city’s top attractions. In a small group of only max. 10 participants, you’ll explore the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda. Enjoy hassle-free transportation between each location with hotel pickup and drop-off included. All entrance fees and an audio guide are also provided. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive introduction to Phnom Penh.

3. Koh Dach Silk Island and Mekong River Sunset Cruise Tours from Phnom Penh

Explore the beautiful Koh Dach Silk Island and enjoy a stunning Mekong River sunset cruise on this private tour from Phnom Penh. Your professional English speaking tour guide will take you on a journey through the bustling city of Phnom Penh and into the peaceful countryside, where you’ll hop aboard a private air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable ride to the pier. From there, you’ll cruise along the Mekong River and take in the breathtaking views of the sunset.

During the tour, you’ll also visit the Royal Palace and discover other top attractions in Phnom Penh. All sightseeing fees are included in the tour itinerary, but other expenses are not covered. Don’t worry about transport as all hotel pick-up and drop-off services are included.

Please provide your hotel name and address so that our guide and driver can meet you at your hotel lobby to start your tour. This private tour/activity ensures that only your group will participate, and infant seats are available upon request. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance of the start time. Join us on this unforgettable tour and discover the beauty of Koh Dach Silk Island and the mesmerizing Mekong River sunset.

4. Experiences Phnom Penh 3 Days Private Tours

During your 3-day private tour of Phnom Penh, you’ll experience the city’s most remarkable attractions with a knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide. Your tour will begin with a hotel pickup by private air-con vehicle. You’ll then head to the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, where you’ll spend an hour exploring with admission tickets included.

Over the next two days, your itinerary will include visits to nine more stops, including the National Museum, Wat Phnom, the Killing Fields, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. All transfer with air-con vehicle as mentioned in the tours itinerary will be provided.

Please note that this is a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate. Infant seats are available, and most travelers can participate. However, this tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and tips for the tour guide and driver are included in the package. You may cancel the tour, and a cancellation policy applies.

We offer free pickup and drop off at your hotel. Please provide your hotel name and address at the time of booking, and our guide and driver will welcome you at your hotel lobby by the starting time for the tours excursion.

5. Phnom Krom for Sunset Cycling Tour

Discover the stunning beauty of Prasat Phnom Krom with a sunset cycling tour. With modern, high-quality mountain bikes, you’ll have all the gear you need to make the most of your adventure. Enjoy stunning views of the sunset and explore this incredible temple, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide. You’ll receive Coke and bottled water to keep you refreshed throughout your journey, and you’ll also receive a temple pass for convenient access. Pickup is available from most hotels in Siem Reap, making it easy to get started on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Please note that this experience is not recommended for travelers with back problems and is not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available upon request. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

6. Phnom Penh to Battambang 1 Day Road Sightseeing English Speaking Driver

Make your journey between Phnom Penh and Battambang more enjoyable with a full-day road sightseeing tour. En route, stop at Oudong Mountain to see former royal family villages and an impressive stupa. Visit Kampong Chhnang and learn about traditional pottery, and see a floating village with houses made of bamboo and recycled material. Work with a private English-speaking driver, and all vehicle costs including gasoline tolls and parking are included. Enjoy a free bottle of water during your journey. Meals, tickets/entrance fees, and boat trips (for $19-35 USD depending on the group size) are not included. The trip is one-way, and we deliver our guests to their hotel in Battambang around 5km.

7. Half Day Tour of Tuol Sleng and Choeng Ek Killing Field

Our half day tour of Tuol Sleng and the Choeng Ek killing field is a must-see when in Phnom Penh. Your Euro-Khmer guide will meet you at your hotel before taking you to the killing fields of Choeung Ek, just 15 km outside of the city.

The killing fields have a dark and bloody history. Once an orchard and Chinese cemetery, the Khmer Rouge transformed it into a place of unspeakable horror. Over four years, 2.5 million people were massacred and buried here.

After paying respects to the dead, we will return to Phnom Penh to visit Tuol Sleng Prison. Once a popular high school, it was turned into a high security prison by Pol Pot and his regime. Over 20,000 people were imprisoned and tortured here. Today, it serves as a museum and a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime.

This tour offers a sobering and thought-provoking insight into Cambodia’s past. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Cambodian history and pay your respects to those who lost their lives during this dark period.

8. Phnom Penh 2 Day Tour

Explore the best attractions in Phnom Penh and beyond with this 2-day tour that takes you to some of the city’s most famous sites as well as lesser-known destinations in the countryside. On the first day, visit popular spots like Independence Monument, the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21) with an English-speaking guide providing insights along the way. On day two, venture outside the city to Phnom Oudong to see ancient temple ruins and meet local silver artisans. You’ll travel by air-conditioned car or van with cold water provided, and enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra. Meals are included, but personal expenses are not. Book now for an immersive and unforgettable Phnom Penh experience.

9. Phnom Penh Tuol Sleng S21 Prison and Quad Bike Tour

This 4-hour tour takes you on a journey through Cambodia’s dark history with a visit to the Choeung Ek killing field, one of the mass graves of the Khmer Rouge. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will explore the site and learn about its tragic past.

Afterward, you will visit an authentic Cambodian village where locals still live in the traditional way. On the way to and from the village, you will enjoy Cambodia’s stunning countryside and see rice fields up close. The tour includes round-trip transfers from your hotel in Phnom Penh city, a fully vaccinated English-speaking guide, and a private car or minivan.

10. Private Tour Phnom Penh City Tour Half Day

See the sights of Phnom Penh your way during a private half-day tour that’s ideal for first-time visitors seeking a personalized experience. With a private guide, you’ll receive undivided attention and have ample time to ask questions while traveling in air-conditioned comfort between top attractions such as the Royal Palace and Wat Phnom. Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off at any hotel in Phnom Penh City area are included. Please note that personal expenses, food, and any items not listed in the inclusions are not included in the package. You can directly head to the meeting point or request pickup at your hotel.

Exploring Phnom Penh: Answers to Frequently Asked Tourist Questions

When it comes to Southeast Asian destinations, Phnom Penh is still somewhat of a hidden gem, yet it boasts a rich cultural heritage and a thriving contemporary scene. As Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh holds many secrets and stories that you might not have heard of before planning your trip. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Phnom Penh and provided answers to them.

1. What is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

Cambodia usually enjoys hot and humid weather all year round, making it suitable for travel at any time of the year. However, the dry season between November and April is regarded as the best time to visit Phnom Penh. During this period, the city experiences less rainfall and cooler temperatures, making it more comfortable for exploring the city.

2. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh has numerous tourist attractions. Some of the popular ones include:

The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda are iconic landmarks in Phnom Penh that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The palace complex features Khmer-style architecture and houses splendid works of art.

Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

A visit to Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, which is a few kilometers away from the city center, is an opportunity for travelers to learn about Cambodia’s dark history. It is a stark reminder of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s.

National Museum of Cambodia

National Museum of Cambodia is a treasure trove of Khmer culture and history. The museum houses over 14,000 pieces of art, including sculptures, ceramics, and bronzes.

3. What are the options for transportation in Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh offers several options for transportation, including tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbikes. Tuk-tuks are the most popular mode of transportation in Phnom Penh as they are affordable and plentiful. Taxis are also available but are relatively more expensive.

4. What is the currency used in Phnom Penh, and are credit cards widely accepted?

The official currency in Cambodia is the Cambodian riel. However, US dollars are widely accepted in Phnom Penh, and most prices in shops, restaurants, and hotels are quoted in USD. Credit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it is always advisable to carry cash while exploring the city.

5. What kind of food should I try in Phnom Penh?

Cambodian cuisine is influenced by neighboring countries such as Vietnam and Thailand, and it is not as spicy as Thai cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Amok fish curry

This dish is a staple of Cambodia’s culinary scene. Amok fish curry is made with fish fillets steamed and flavored with spices, coconut milk, and kroeung (a Khmer spice paste).

Lok lak

Lok lak is a popular meat dish that consists of thinly sliced beef or chicken sauteed with onions and served with rice and a sauce made of lime and pepper.

Num pang

Num pang is Cambodia’s version of a sandwich. It is typically made with a baguette stuffed with savory fillings such as grilled pork or tofu and finished with pickled vegetables.

6. Is it safe to travel to Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh is generally considered safe for travelers. However, like any other city, it is advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, be alert in crowded areas, and keep an eye on your belongings.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Phnom Penh

If you’re planning a trip to Cambodia, make sure to include Phnom Penh in your itinerary. As the capital and largest city of Cambodia, Phnom Penh is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of things to see and do. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Phnom Penh.

1. Visit the Royal Palace

One of the must-visit places in Phnom Penh is the Royal Palace. This palace complex was built in the 1860s and is still the residence of the King of Cambodia today. You can take a guided tour of the palace to see the beautiful Khmer architecture and learn about the history of the palace and the royal family.

2. Explore the National Museum of Cambodia

The National Museum of Cambodia is a great place to learn about the country’s art and culture. The museum houses over 14,000 items including sculptures, ceramics, and textiles dating back to the Khmer Empire. Take a guided tour to learn more about these artifacts and their historical significance.

3. Take a Walk Along the Riverside

The Riverside in Phnom Penh is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Take a leisurely walk along the Tonle Sap River to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the street food and drink vendors. You can also hire a boat ride along the river to get a different perspective of the city.

4. Visit the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

Cambodia’s recent history is a tragic one, and it’s important to learn about it when you visit the country. The Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum are two places that provide an insight into the dark period of the Khmer Rouge regime. Take a guided tour to understand the atrocities that happened and to pay respects to the victims.

5. Go on a Tuk-Tuk Tour

One of the best ways to see the city is to go on a tuk-tuk tour. Hire a tuk-tuk driver and explore the city at your own pace. You can visit local markets, temples, and neighborhoods, and experience the hustle and bustle of Phnom Penh.

6. Try Local Food

Cambodian cuisine is a fusion of different cultures, and trying local food is a must when you’re in Phnom Penh. Some of the must-try dishes include Amok, a curry made with fish or chicken cooked in coconut milk and spices, and Lok Lak, a dish made with marinated beef served on a bed of lettuce, tomato, and onion.

7. Visit Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Phnom Penh. This temple was built in the 14th century and is the tallest religious structure in the city. Take a guided tour of the temple to learn about its history and see the beautiful paintings and sculptures.

8. Shop at Russian Market

The Russian Market is a popular shopping destination in Phnom Penh. You can find everything from clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts to souvenirs and local snacks. Make sure to bargain to get the best price for your purchases.

9. Relax at a Spa

After a long day of sightseeing, unwind and relax at one of the many spas in Phnom Penh. You can choose from traditional Khmer massages, aromatherapy, and other holistic treatments.

10. Watch a Traditional Dance Performance

Cambodia is known for its traditional dance performances that depict stories from its history and culture. You can watch these performances at various venues in Phnom Penh, including the National Museum and the Royal Palace.In conclusion, Phnom Penh is a great destination for tourists who want to learn about Cambodia’s history and culture. Make sure to visit these top attractions and experiences to make the most of your trip.

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The 10 Best Unique Things To Do In Phnom Penh

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!