17 Best Things to Do in Phnom Penh, Cambodia (First-Time Visitor Guide)
When we first arrived in Phnom Penh, we honestly didn’t know what to expect. Like many travellers in Cambodia, we initially saw it as more of a stopover between Siem Reap and the islands. We were also told by a lot of fellow backpackers not to spend too much time here.
But after spending time exploring the city, eating our way through markets, learning about Cambodia’s heartbreaking history, and experiencing the chaos of the streets, Phnom Penh completely surprised us.
It’s busy, intense, noisy, and at times emotionally heavy, but it’s also one of the most fascinating cities in Southeast Asia.
From important historical sites like the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to rooftop bars, local street food, river cruises, and hidden markets, there are so many things to do that deserve more attention from travellers.
So if you’re planning your first trip to Cambodia’s capital, here are the very best things to do in Phnom Penh based on our own experience visiting the city.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Things to Do in Phnom Penh?
If you’re short on time, these are the absolute must-do attractions:
- Visit the Killing Fields
- Explore the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
- See the Royal Palace
- Walk around Central Market
- Explore Bassac Lane nightlife
- Take a sunset river cruise
- Try Cambodian street food
- Visit Wat Phnom
- Ride through the city in a tuk tuk
Map of the Best Phnom Penh Attractions
1. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
This was easily one of the most emotional and impactful places we visited in Cambodia.
Originally a school, Tuol Sleng was turned into a prison and torture centre during the Khmer Rouge regime. Walking through the classrooms and seeing the photographs and stories of victims is incredibly difficult but also extremely important.
It’s not an easy experience by any means, but we genuinely think it’s something every visitor to Cambodia should do to better understand Cambodia’s history.
We’d highly recommend hiring the audio guide as it adds so much context and detail to the visit.
2. Visit the Killing Fields
Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre
Visiting the Killing Fields is another difficult but essential experience.
Located just outside the city, this memorial site commemorates the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. The atmosphere here feels incredibly quiet and reflective compared to the chaos of the city itself.
The audio tour is extremely well done and explains the history in a respectful and informative way.
Honestly, this was one of the most moving experiences of our entire Southeast Asia trip and something we’ll never forget.
You can visit both the museum and killing fields in one day tour and we would highly recommend doing so, either by booking a tour or hiring a driver for the day.
3. Explore the Royal Palace
After the heavier historical sites, the Royal Palace offers a completely different side of Phnom Penh. The palace complex is beautiful with traditional Khmer architecture, golden rooftops, colourful gardens, and detailed temples throughout the grounds.
It’s one of the most famous attractions and definitely should be on everyone’s Cambodia bucket list if it’s your first time in the city.
Make sure you dress respectfully with your shoulders and knees covered; otherwise, you may not be allowed entry. When packing for Cambodia, be sure you have some modest clothing packed with you for royal sites and temples!
4. Visit the National Museum of Cambodia
If you want to learn more about Cambodian history and culture beyond the Khmer Rouge period, the National Museum is well worth visiting.
Inside you’ll find:
- ancient Khmer sculptures
- religious artefacts
- Angkor-era pieces
- traditional Cambodian art
The museum itself is also stunning architecturally and provides a quieter escape from Phnom Penh’s busy streets.
5. Wander Around Central Market
Central Market was one of our favourite places to just wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
The huge yellow art-deco building is impossible to miss and inside you’ll find:
- clothes
- jewellery
- souvenirs
- electronics
- local snacks
- street food
Like many markets in Southeast Asia, it can feel chaotic at times, but that’s part of the experience.
If you’re planning to shop, definitely don’t accept the first price.
6. Explore the city by Tuk Tuk
Honestly, riding around Phnom Penh in a tuk tuk is an experience in itself.
The traffic is absolutely chaotic, but somehow everything still works.
Most visitors use tuk tuks to get between attractions because they’re affordable, easy to find and much cooler than walking in the heat. You’ll probably end up using them multiple times a day while exploring the city.
7. Walk Along the Riverside
The riverside area along the Mekong River and Tonlé Sap River is one of the nicest parts to wander around.
During the evening especially, the whole area becomes much more lively. It’s one of the best free things to do in Phnom Penh and a great way to slow down after sightseeing.
8. Visit Wat Phnom
Wat Phnom is the most important temple in the city and one of the oldest Phnom Penh tourist spots.
Sitting on a small hill, the temple offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the traffic-heavy streets surrounding it.
It’s not as huge or impressive as temples you’ll see in places like Angkor Wat, but it’s still worth visiting while exploring.
9. Visit the Russian Market
The Russian Market felt slightly more local and less touristy compared to Central Market.
This is a great place for:
- souvenirs
- handmade goods
- local clothing
- cheap food
- coffee stops
The narrow market aisles can get very hot during the day, but it’s still one of the best places in Phnom Penh to experience local life.
10. Experience Nightlife and Restaurants at Bassac Lane
Bassac Lane ended up being one of our favourite areas at night.
Hidden behind seemingly random alleyways, this small nightlife area is packed with cocktail bars, live music, craft beer spots and trendy cafés.
It feels completely different from the rest of the city and has a much more modern atmosphere.
If you’re looking for things to do at night in Phnom Penh, definitely head here.
11. Try Traditional Cambodian Food
One of the best things to do in Phnom Penh is simply eat.
Some Khmer dishes you should try include:
- Fish Amok
- Beef Lok Lak
- Khmer curry
- Nom Banh Chok
- fried spring rolls
- Khmer BBQ
Street food is also everywhere and usually incredibly cheap.
12. Join a Hostel Bar Crawl
Even if you’re not staying in a hostel, Phnom Penh has a surprisingly social backpacker scene. We stayed in Mad Monkey and couldn’t recommend it enough!
A lot of hostels in Cambodia organise things like bar crawls, pub quizzes, rooftop parties and social dinners.
This is honestly one of the easiest ways to meet other travellers if you’re backpacking Cambodia solo.
13. Take a Cambodian Cooking Class
If you really enjoy Cambodian food, taking a cooking class can be a great experience.
Many classes include:
- market or farm tours
- ingredient explanations
- multiple dishes
- family-style meals
It’s also one of the more unique things to do in Phnom Penh compared to the usual tourist attractions.
12. Watch Sunset from a Rooftop Bar
Phnom Penh has some really underrated rooftop bars.
Watching sunset over the Mekong River while the city slowly lights up underneath you is one of the best ways to spend an evening here.
Many rooftop bars also have happy hour deals which makes them surprisingly affordable.
15. Take a Sunset River Cruise
One of the most relaxing things to do in Phnom Penh is taking a boat cruise along the Mekong River. It’s a nice break from the intensity of the traffic and busy streets.
16. Visit Silk Island
If you want to escape the city for a few hours, Silk Island is a great option.
Located just outside Phnom Penh, the island feels much quieter and more rural compared to the city centre.
You can explore silk weaving villages, local farms, riverside scenery and quieter roads.
17. Take a Trip to Angkor Wat
Although not technically in Phnom Penh, most travellers combine the capital with a trip to Siem Reap and Angkor Wat. If you are basing your trip in Phnom Penh rather than Siem Reap, you can easily make a trip of visiting during your holiday.
If Phnom Penh shows Cambodia’s modern history, Angkor Wat showcases its incredible ancient history. It’s absolutely worth including both destinations in your Cambodia itinerary.
How Many Days Do You Need in Phnom Penh?
We’d recommend 2–3 days for most travellers, but 1 day in Phnom Penh is fine if you are short on time.
This gives you enough time to:
- visit the historical sites
- explore the markets
- experience nightlife
- try local food
- take a river cruise
Is Phnom Penh Worth Visiting?
If you are wondering if Phnom Penh is worth visiting, we would say absolutely yes!
Phnom Penh isn’t as immediately beautiful as somewhere like Siem Reap or the islands, but it’s one of the most interesting and important cities to visit in Cambodia.
Phnom Penh Travel Tips
- Carry cash for markets and tuk tuks
- Use Grab for easier transport pricing
- Visit historical sites respectfully
- Stay hydrated – Phnom Penh gets HOT
- Avoid walking too much midday
- Be prepared for emotional museum visits
We have heaps more tips for visiting Cambodia, so be sure to check them out before you visit!
FAQ: Things to Do in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is known for its history, the Khmer Rouge memorial sites, markets, nightlife, riverside atmosphere, and royal palace.
Most travellers need 2–3 days to properly experience Phnom Penh.
Generally yes, but like any large city, you should stay aware of your belongings and surroundings.
Bassac Lane, rooftop bars, river cruises, and night markets are some of the best nighttime activities.
Yes, but Angkor Wat is located in Siem Reap around 5–6 hours away by bus or train.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh really surprised us!
Yes, it’s chaotic, noisy, and emotionally intense at times, but it’s also incredibly fascinating and gives important insight into Cambodia’s history and culture.
Between the markets, rooftop bars, riverside atmosphere, food scene, and deeply moving historical sites, Phnom Penh ended up being one of the most memorable places we visited in Cambodia.
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