Best of Phnom Penh

The best things to do during a visit to Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh is working hard to shake off the demons of its past - and during the last few years, there have been some real leaps forward. Cambodia's capital today is a nice mix of energy and exotica and here are some of our best of Phnom Penh suggestions.


Royal Palace

Photo: Mark BowyerRoyal Palace, Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh’s sprawling Royal Palace is the symbol and focal point of the city. It has been the residence of Cambodian Kings since its construction in 1866. Most of the original timber buildings have disappeared and the most imposing surviving structures in the complex date from the early twentieth century.


National Museum

One of the most striking buildings in all of Phnom Penh is the rich red National Museum. It also houses the world’s most important collection of Khmer sculpture and carving.

Inaugurated in 1920 during the heyday of French colonial rule, its architect and first curator, George Groslier, was determined to collect and preserve Cambodia’s rich past. Remarkably, the collection was spared major looting and damage during the Khmer Rouge’s reign of terror in the 1970s.




Photo: Mark BowyerTuol Sleng Genocide Museum, Phnom Penh

Tuol Sleng

There is something hideously perverse about turning a school into a torture camp.  At Tuol Sleng in downtown Phnom Penh, that’s what happened. Following the takeover of Cambodia in 1975, the Khmer Rouge converted the Toul Svay High School into their most notorious torture camp. It is estimated that around seventeen thousand Cambodians and a handful of foreigners died or were tortured here before being dumped at the killing fields of Choeung Ek. The former camp, known as S-21 is now preserved as the Tuol Sleng Museum.


Wat Phnom

It's from this hilltop temple structure, Wat Phnom, that Phnom Penh takes its name. There's nothing earth shattering about a visit to Wat Phnom but its central location near the river and amidst some of the city's finest architecture makes it a worthwhile short stop.

Photo: Mark BowyerColonial era architecture on the Phnom Penh riverfront

Riverfront

Phnom Penh's riverfront is in the midst of a transformation that places it firmly at the centre of eating and drinking in the city. But before you take a seat at one of the cool riverside bars or restaurants, a long stroll along the river promenade is a great way to unwind on a hot Phnom Penh afternoon.  Or you might like to start the day amidst the locals as they carry out their morning exercises.


Cool boutique hotels

Travellers to Phnom Penh are spolled for accommodation choices - especially in the boutique category. Check out our recommended hotels in Phnom Penh for some great boutique hotel ideas.