Is Phnom Penh Worth Visiting? Honest Guide to Cambodia’s Capital

Is Phnom Penh worth visiting? It’s a question we asked ourselves before arriving, and if we’re honest, we weren’t entirely sure what to expect! 

Unlike places such as Siem Reap, Phnom Penh doesn’t always make the “must-visit” lists. Many travellers simply pass through on their way elsewhere in Cambodia.

But after spending time in the city, we realised Phnom Penh offers something very different. It’s raw, real, and packed with history, both beautiful and deeply sobering.

In this guide, we’ll share our honest Phnom Penh travel review, including the pros and cons, best things to do, safety tips, and whether it’s actually worth visiting.

Our Experience Visiting Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh was our very first stop on our backpacking trip around Southeast Asia, and it was a huge shock to the system! 

We’d never experienced anything like it before. The hustle and bustle hit us straight away and, if we’re honest, we actually hated it at first. It felt chaotic, overwhelming, and not very walkable compared to what we were used to. Motorbikes were coming from every direction, uneven pavements, and just a lot was going on.

But that feeling didn’t last.

Once we started to adjust and understand the rhythm of the city, Phnom Penh really grew on us. In fact, we ended up coming back two more times during our month in Cambodia.

What changed things for us was leaning into what the city does best. We loved the bars, restaurants, and cafés, and spent evenings enjoying rooftop views across the city. Staying at Mad Monkey also made a big difference; it was social, fun, and a great base for meeting other travellers.

Looking back, Phnom Penh wasn’t love at first sight, but it’s a place that definitely grows on you! 

What is Phnom Penh Like?

Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia and sits at the meeting point of the Mekong River and Tonlé Sap. It’s a city of contrasts.

On one side, you’ll find:

• Grand buildings like the Royal Palace
• Riverside restaurants and rooftop bars
• Busy markets and buzzing nightlife

On the other:

• Heavy history linked to the Khmer Rouge
• Poverty and visible inequality
• Busy, sometimes chaotic streets

It’s not always an easy city, but it’s definitely an interesting one.

Should I Visit Phnom Penh? (Quick Answer)

If you’re short on time, here’s the honest answer:

Yes, Phnom Penh is worth visiting—especially for its history and cultural insight.

However, If you’re only looking for beaches or relaxation, it might not be for you, and you would be best off heading straight to Koh Rong. If you’re backpacking in Cambodia, it’s an important and worthwhile stop. 

Phnom Penh Pros and Cons

Things to Do in Phnom Penh (Best Places to Visit)

There are actually plenty of things to do in Phnom Penh, especially if you enjoy history and culture.

1. The Killing Fields

Visiting the Killing Fields is one of the most important and emotional experiences in Cambodia. This site tells the story of the Khmer Rouge regime, where thousands of people lost their lives. It’s not an easy visit, but it’s something we believe everyone should experience to better understand the country. Many people combine this with a visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which is what we did during our visit. 

2. Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda

The Royal Palace is one of the most beautiful places in Phnom Penh. Inside the complex, you’ll also find the Silver Pagoda, known for its stunning floors made of silver tiles. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busier parts of the city and is definitely worth including in your itinerary.

3. Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is one of the most important temples in the city and sits on a small hill in a park setting. It’s a nice place to take a break from the chaos and soak in a bit of Cambodian culture.

4. National Museum

If you want to learn more about Cambodia’s history beyond the Khmer Rouge, the National Museum is a great place to visit. It houses an impressive collection of Khmer art and artefacts.

5. Central Market & Russian Market

Markets are a huge part of visiting Phnom Penh, and these two are among the best.

• Central Market: Great for souvenirs and architecture
• Russian Market: Better for local goods, clothes, and street food

Both are worth exploring if you enjoy a bit of bargaining.

6. Mekong River & Riverside Walks

The Mekong River is one of the highlights of the city.

We loved walking along the riverside, especially in the evening when everything feels more alive. 

7. Nightlife & Mad Monkey Hostel

Phnom Penh has a surprisingly lively nightlife scene. If you’re backpacking, places like Mad Monkey are great for meeting people and enjoying a social atmosphere. It was one of our favourite hostels in Cambodia by far! 

There are also plenty of rooftop bars and riverside spots for a more relaxed evening.

Trips from Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh can also be used as a base for nearby trips.

Some options include:

• Silk Island
• River tours
• Local villages

While it’s not as famous for excursions as Siem Reap (home to Angkor Wat), there are still plenty of ways to explore beyond the city.

Phnom Penh vs Siem Reap

This is a common comparison and something to consider if you are deciding where to base your stay during your trip to Cambodia. Ideally, visit both; they offer completely different experiences! 

Is Phnom Penh Safe?

So, is Phnom Penh safe?

Generally, yes, but you do need to be cautious.We felt safe during our trip, but we actually met several backpackers who had been pickpocketed… It’s important to:

• Watch your belongings
• Be careful with phones near roads
• Avoid quiet areas late at night

Travel insurance is always a good idea when visiting Cambodia.

Is Phnom Penh Expensive?

Phnom Penh is relatively affordable. You’ll find street food, budget hostels and hotels and reasonably priced tours.  It’s a great destination if you’re backpacking or travelling on a budget.

Transport Options & Getting Around

Getting to Phnom Penh is easy thanks to its international airport.

Within the city, transport options include:

• Tuk-tuks (most common)
• Grab (ride-hailing app)
• Walking (in certain areas)

For longer distances, buses connect Phnom Penh to places like Siem Reap. We used 12Go Asia during our trip and found it the best for getting around Cambodia.

How Long Should You Spend in Phnom Penh?

We’d recommend spending 2–3 days in Phnom Penh.

This gives you enough time to visit historical sites, explore markets and experience the city. If you’re short on time, you could do it in one full day, but it would feel rushed.

Travel Tips for Visiting Phnom Penh

We have a full guide for tips for travelling in Cambodia, but here are a few for Phnom Penh! 

• Dress respectfully when visiting temples – check our packing guide for Cambodia! 
• Stay hydrated (it’s hot!)
• Use tuk-tuks or Grab for convenience
• Carry small cash for markets and street food
• Be prepared for emotional experiences at historical sites

Is Cambodia Worth Visiting Overall?

Absolutely! 

Cambodia offers a mix of:

• History
• Culture
• Natural beauty
• Incredible food

From Phnom Penh to Angkor Wat, it’s a country that leaves a lasting impression. Cambodia was one of our favourite countries to visit in Southeast Asia and should not be skipped. If you are still undecided, give our Cambodia bucket list a read and see if it changes your mind! 

Final Verdict: Is Phnom Penh Worth Visiting?

So, is Phnom Penh worth visiting?

Yes, but with the right expectations.

It’s not the easiest city, and it’s not the most visually stunning. But it’s real, educational, and deeply impactful. For us, Phnom Penh wasn’t just another stop; it was one of the most meaningful parts of our trip to Cambodia.

If you’re open to learning, exploring, and stepping outside your comfort zone, then Phnom Penh is absolutely worth it! 

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