Why Visit Phnom Penh: A journey through Cambodia’s past and present

Phnom Penh offers vibrant riverside life, rich Khmer history, the Royal Palace, moving museums, lively markets and welcoming locals, creating an authentic, culturally immersive Cambodian experience.

Why visit Phnom Penh? This city invites you to uncover its layered past, from royal splendors to poignant memorials, while embracing its emerging urban energy and warm hospitality. Often overshadowed by the majestic Angkor Wat, Phnom Penh stands as Cambodia’s beating heart. The allure of Phnom Penh lies in its ability to harmonize contrasts: serene pagodas coexist with lively markets, while tales of tragedy give way to stories of renewal. If you’re a tracing the Khmer Empire’s history and seeking authentic connections for your Cambodia tours, Phnom Penh promises inspiring experiences.

Explore the compelling reasons to visit Phnom Penh, from its profound history to its flourishing culture.

Emotional historical experience

One of the most compelling reasons why visit Phnom Penh is its deep historical layers. The city serves as a gateway to understanding the Khmer Rouge era, a dark chapter that shaped modern Cambodia, while also highlighting the nation’s remarkable resilience and path to recovery. This historical depth provides not just education but emotional insight, making Phnom Penh an essential stop to connect with the human spirit’s endurance.

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, once a high school transformed into the notorious prison, stands as a somber testament to the regime’s atrocities. Walking through its haunting corridors, you’ll see preserved cells, interrogation rooms, and photographs of victims, each telling a story of loss and survival. The museum’s exhibits, including survivor testimonies and artifacts, offer a raw, unflinching look at the horrors that claimed nearly two million lives, yet they also emphasize hope through education and remembrance.

Inside Tuol Sleng Museum.

Nearby, the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, where thousands were executed, feature a memorial stupa filled with skulls. It stands as a stark reminder of the genocide’s scale. Visiting these sites is emotionally challenging but crucial for comprehending Cambodia’s journey from despair to renewal, as the country has rebuilt with international aid and a focus on justice through tribunals.

Stunning royal complex

The Royal Palace showcase Khmer architecture and royal heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone drawn to opulent history and intricate design. This sprawling complex, still the residence of Cambodia’s king, offers a serene escape with its gilded roofs and manicured gardens.

At the heart of the palace lies the Throne Hall, a majestic structure with soaring spires and elaborate frescoes depicting scenes from the Reamker (Cambodian Ramayana), used for coronations and state ceremonies. The Chan Chaya Pavilion, with its French-influenced balcony, once hosted royal dances, adding a layer of cultural fusion. The palace grounds, dotted with stupas and shrines, provide peaceful spots for reflection amid blooming frangipani trees. The Silver Pagoda, or Wat Preah Keo, named for its floor of over 5,000 silver tiles weighing a ton each, housing priceless artifacts like the Emerald Buddha carved from baccarat crystal and a life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with 9,584 diamonds. This sacred space, blending Buddhist relics with royal treasures, symbolizes Cambodia’s spiritual and regal identity.

The Royal Palace in Phnom Penh

Exploring the Royal Palace offers insights into Khmer craftsmanship, from intricate bas-reliefs to gold-leaf detailing. For visitors on Cambodia tours, early morning visits avoid crowds, allowing intimate appreciation of the architecture’s symmetry and symbolism.

Tranquil temples

Phnom Penh’s deep connection to Buddhism is evident in the number of temples scattered throughout the city. These sites offer serene havens in contrast to the city’s energy. Visiting a Buddhist temple (known as a wat) is a must for anyone interested in spirituality or local culture. These temples are centers of community life, where locals pray, make offerings, and celebrate religious festivals. As you explore the city, you’ll find wats of all sizes, from the iconic Wat Phnom to smaller, lesser-known temples hidden in the backstreets.

Wat Phnom, perched atop the city’s only hill, is Phnom Penh’s namesake and a symbol of its founding legend. Today, its stupa and shrines attract pilgrims offering incense and lotuses, with monkeys and elephants statues adding whimsy to the grounds. The temple’s murals and gilded altars depict Buddhist tales, while the surrounding park offers shaded walks with views over the city. Other gems include Wat Ounalom, the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism with over 40 structures housing ancient manuscripts, and Wat Botum, known for its peaceful lotus ponds and intricate gates.

Wat Phnom Temple in Phnom Penh

Local markets experience

Why visit Phnom Penh? Phnom Penh’s bustling markets are a treat for those who love shopping. These markets are pulsating hubs of daily life, offering immersive experiences in local commerce, cuisine, and craftsmanship. Phnom Penh’s market provide a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, making them essential for understanding Cambodian culture and finding unique souvenirs.

The Central Market (Psar Thmei), with its distinctive Art Deco dome, is one of Phnom Penh’s most recognizable landmarks. As one of Asia’s largest marketplaces, Psar Thmei houses vendors selling glittering jewelry, fresh tropical fruits, and textiles under its yellow arches. This architectural icon, blends French colonial design with Khmer elements, creating a vibrant space for bargaining. For a more authentic vibe, the Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung) is a labyrinth of stalls offering handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and antiques, named for its Soviet-era popularity among expats. Here, you can find intricate wood carvings, pepper from Kampot, and street food like num pang (Cambodian baguettes) filled with pickled veggies and pâté.

The golden dome of Phsar Thmei in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Night markets like Phsar Reatrey add evening charm to your visit with live music and fried treats. Exploring these markets reveals Phnom Penh’s community fabric, with vendors sharing daily life stories, ensuring a fun, cultural dive.

Flourishing modern culture

Phnom Penh is a hub for Cambodia’s modern cultural revival. A growing number of art galleries, studios, and cultural spaces have sprung up across the city, showcasing works by established and rising Cambodian artists. These galleries are wonderful places to explore if you’re interested in the creative side of Cambodia.

Galleries like Sa Sa Bassac and Java Creative Café exhibit works by local artists tackling themes of identity, memory, and urban life through paintings, sculptures, and installations. Street art in alleys depicts social issues with bold colors, turning walls into open-air museums. The cafe culture thrives trendy spots like Brown’s Coffee, serving artisanal brews amid minimalist decor, or rooftop bars like Eclipse Sky Bar offering city views with craft cocktails.

This flourishing scene reflects Cambodia’s youthful energy and healing through art, with events like the Cambodia Urban Art Festival bringing international collaborations.

A city of contrasts and change

Phnom Penh is a city of contrasts, where old meets new at every turn. While its historical sites offer a glimpse into its turbulent past, its modern developments and emerging creative industries are a testament to Cambodia’s fast-paced growth. As Cambodia modernizes, Phnom Penh is leading the charge with new infrastructure projects, international businesses, and a youthful, entrepreneurial energy.

Yet, the city has retained much of its charm. The French colonial architecture that lines the streets, combined with the traditional Khmer buildings and temples, creates a unique visual identity for Phnom Penh. As you walk through the streets, you will see the city’s change is evident in booming industries and youthful startups, yet it honors its heritage through preserved sites and festivals

Phnom Penh From Above

Tips for visiting Phnom Penh

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

The best time to visit Phnom Penh is during the dry season from November to February. During these months, the weather is more temperate, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures are cooler and the humidity is lower, which will make your time exploring the city much more comfortable. However, as this is the peak tourist season, expect popular attractions to be more crowded and accommodation rates might be higher. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of October or March.

Read more: Best Places to Visit in Cambodia in Rainy Season

How to get there

Phnom Penh is well connected by air, with the Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) serving as the main entry point for international travelers. There are direct flights to Phnom Penh from major cities in Southeast Asia and some international hubs, making it easily accessible. Bus routes are also available from neighboring countries if you’re on a Vietnam tour or a Thailand tour

Once you arrive in the city, tuk-tuks are the most popular way to get around. For convenience and price transparency, you can also use ride-booking apps like Grab or simply rent a private car with driver in Cambodia.

Top attractions and must-see spots

• Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Explore Khmer grandeur and sacred artifacts.
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Reflect on Cambodia’s tragic history and the people’s resilience.
• Wat Phnom: Visit the city’s founding temple for panoramic views.
• Central Market (Psar Thmei): Shop under the iconic dome for souvenirs and immerse in the locals’ daily life.
• Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung): Hunt for traditional crafts and antiques.
• National Museum: View Khmer sculptures and artifacts.
• Sisowath Quay: Stroll the peaceful riverside for sunset vibes.
• Independence Monument: Admire the lotus-shaped landmark.

What to eat in Phnom Penh?

Traditional Cambodian cuisine are fresh, fragrant, and often influenced by neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, but with their own unique Khmer twist. Here are some of the best Cambodian food to try in Phnom Penh:

• Fish Amok: Creamy coconut fish curry steamed in banana leaves.
• Nom Banh Chok: Rice noodles with green fish curry and herbs.
• Lok Lak: Stir-fried beef with pepper sauce and fried egg.
• Kuy Teav: Noodle soup with pork or seafood broth.
• Bai Sach Chrouk: Grilled pork over rice with pickles.
• Num Pang: Baguette sandwich with pâté and veggies.
• Cha Houy Teuk: Jelly dessert with coconut milk and fruits.

For international cuisine, Phnom Penh has no shortage of options. French bakeries, Indian curries, and Italian pasta all find a place on Phnom Penh’s ever-expanding culinary map.

Plan your visit in Phnom Penh with Paradise Travel

Why visit Phnom Penh? More than just the capital of Cambodia—it’s a city of contrasts, where the past and present coexist in a unique blend. From royal palaces to poignant memorials and vibrant markets, Phnom Penh offers a journey of discovery and reflection. The city offers a rich and emotional experience that should not be missed.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines culture, history, and modern vibrancy with a laid-back feel, Phnom Penh is a perfect choice. Start planning your Cambodia tours in 2026 with Paradise Travel and discover one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting hidden gems.