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Home / Destinations / Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh

Cambodia · City · KHR · 11.562400, 104.916000
Family friendly 9.8/10 · Rank 2 of 2 709
Best season: November-March

Best for

Phnom Penh suits lovers of urban tourism, admirers of history and culture, foodies, and those who want to get acquainted with modern Cambodia. The city is not suitable for beach lovers and those seeking a quiet, secluded holiday.

Best season

November-March

Daily budget
$43.00 (≈ 3 609 ₽)
For 7 days
$301.00 (≈ 25 260 ₽)
Phnom Penh is the bustling capital of Cambodia, located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap and Bassac rivers. The city combines ancient Khmer temples, tree-lined boulevards with French colonial past and modern glass skyscrapers. The main attractions are the Royal Palace, Wat Phnom pagoda which gave the city its name, and lively markets including the Central Market with its bright yellow building.
Summer
32.0°C
Winter
21.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

fast

Local character

The residents of Phnom Penh are a mix of Khmers, Chinese, Vietnamese, and expats from around the world. They are known for their hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and hospitality. The city takes pride in its history and culture, and locals happily share their knowledge of their country.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Rich historical heritage: the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and museums telling the tragic pages of history.
  • Diverse gastronomy: from street food to fine dining restaurants combining Khmer and French traditions.
  • Vibrant nightlife: bars, clubs, and night markets operate until morning.
  • Developed infrastructure: numerous hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and transport hubs.
  • Affordable prices: accommodation, food, and transport are significantly cheaper than in major European cities.
  • Cultural diversity: the city combines traditional Khmer culture with modern influences.
  • Convenient location: proximity to Tonle Sap Lake, the Angkor temple complex, and the coast.

Cons

  • High crime rate: theft and robbery, especially in tourist areas, require increased vigilance.
  • Noise and bustle: the city is very lively, especially in the center and during rush hours.
  • Air pollution: smog and exhaust fumes make the atmosphere in the city center unhealthy.
  • Hot and humid climate: high temperature and humidity can be difficult for some tourists.
  • Rainy season: from May to October, frequent downpours can disrupt plans for walks.
  • Limited English: communication may be difficult in remote areas.
  • Traffic jams: during rush hours, moving around the city can take a long time.
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
30.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
31.3°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
32.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
29.1°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
21.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-October
Attractions

Royal Palace

The official residence of the King of Cambodia, built in 1866. The complex includes the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and numerous buildings in Khmer style. Visitors can see unique works of art and Buddhist shrines.

Silver Pagoda

A temple on the grounds of the Royal Palace, its floor paved with over 5,000 silver tiles. It houses the Emerald Buddha statue and many other valuable relics. An impressive place to get acquainted with Buddhist culture.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

A former prison S-21, where thousands were held and tortured during the Khmer Rouge era. Today it is a museum telling the tragic pages of Cambodia's history. The visit requires emotional preparation.

Choeung Ek Killing Fields

A site of mass graves of victims of the Khmer Rouge regime, located 17 km from the city. A stupa with the skulls of the dead is installed here. An important historical monument reminding of the horrors of the past.

National Museum of Cambodia

The country's largest museum, dedicated to the history and culture of Cambodia. The collection includes sculptures, ceramics, and household items from ancient times to the present day. Located in a historic building in the city center.

Central Market (Psar Thmei)

One of the largest markets in Asia, built in 1937. Here you can buy everything: from jewelry and clothing to fresh produce and souvenirs. The Art Deco architecture of the building is impressive.

Sisowath Quay

A picturesque promenade along the Mekong River, a popular place for walks and sunset watching. Cafes, restaurants, and parks are located here. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes especially lively.

Best areas

Royal Palace Area

A prestigious area in the city center, home to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. The best hotels, restaurants, and cultural institutions are concentrated here. An ideal place for a first introduction to the city.

Sisowath Quay

A picturesque area along the Mekong River with hotels, restaurants, and bars. Popular among tourists who value river views and a lively atmosphere. In the evening, families stroll here and a night market operates.

BKK1

A modern area with elite apartments, international restaurants, and shopping malls. Popular among expats and business travelers. It stands out for its high level of comfort and safety.

Tuol Kork

A lively residential area with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Here you can experience the daily life of Phnom Penh and try authentic cuisine. A good choice for budget travelers.

Boeng Kak Lake Area

A developing area with modern residential complexes, offices, and entertainment venues. Popular among young people and professionals. Large shopping malls and cinemas are located here.

Daun Penh

A quiet residential area with affordable guesthouses and local restaurants. From here it is convenient to get to the center by tuk-tuk. A good choice for those seeking quiet and inexpensive accommodation.

Must-try food

Fish Amok

A traditional Khmer dish: fish steamed in coconut milk with curry paste, herbs, and spices. Served in a banana leaf. An aromatic and tender dish, popular throughout Cambodia.

Lok Lak

Beef stir-fried with onion and spices, served with rice, salad, and a lime-pepper sauce. A popular dish combining Khmer and Vietnamese culinary traditions.

Khmer Curry

A thick curry with chicken, beef, or vegetables, cooked in coconut milk with potato and sweet potato. Served with rice or baguette. A warming and hearty dish.

Nom Banh Chok

Rice noodles with broth, served with herb patties, vegetables, and sauce. A traditional breakfast or lunch, popular in Phnom Penh. A light and refreshing dish.

Baguette with Pâté

A legacy of French colonialism: a fresh baguette with pâté, cucumber, carrot, and coriander. Street food, popular for breakfast or a snack.

Fried Insects

A street snack: fried crickets, grasshoppers, larvae, and spiders. Crispy and nutritious, they are part of the local culinary culture. Try if you want a thrill.

Fresh Juices and Smoothies

Tropical fruit juices and smoothies made from mango, papaya, banana, and coconut. Sold in markets and street stalls. Refreshing and healthy drinks.

Where to go next

Siem Reap

A city 300 km from Phnom Penh, known for the Angkor Wat temple complex. An ideal destination for a day trip or a stop on the way to Phnom Penh. Accessible by bus or plane.

Kampong Cham

A city 120 km from Phnom Penh, known for its bamboo bridge and Koh Paen Island. A popular destination for day trips and getting acquainted with rural life in Cambodia.

Kampot

A city 150 km from Phnom Penh, known for its pepper plantations and picturesque river. An ideal destination for tasting the famous Kampot pepper and relaxing in nature.

Kep

A coastal town 170 km from Phnom Penh, known for its crab markets and beaches. A popular destination for foodies and lovers of quiet relaxation.

Sihanoukville

A major resort city 230 km from Phnom Penh, known for its beaches and nightlife. A popular destination for those who want to combine urban tourism with a beach holiday.

Kratie

A city 250 km from Phnom Penh, known for its freshwater dolphins and picturesque Mekong landscapes. A popular destination for ecotourism.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Пномпень Международный Аэропорт (PNH).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
November-March
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$0.75
≈ 63 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.60
≈ 50 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
Phnom Penh: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is November-March. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Phnom Penh: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +32.0°C, during the day — up to +31.3°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Phnom Penh: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +21.0°C, during the day — up to +29.1°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Phnom Penh: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Phnom Penh: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $43.00 (≈ 3 609 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Phnom Penh: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $5.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $30.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $60.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $120.00 per night, an apartment — $45.00 per night, a villa — $200.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Phnom Penh: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $3.00, dinner at a restaurant — $8.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $0.75, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Phnom Penh: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $7.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.60, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $30.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Phnom Penh: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Royal Palace — The official residence of the King of Cambodia, built in 1866. The complex includes the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and numerous buildings in Khmer style. Visitors can see unique works of art and Buddhist shrines.; Silver Pagoda — A temple on the grounds of the Royal Palace, its floor paved with over 5,000 silver tiles. It houses the Emerald Buddha statue and many other valuable relics. An impressive place to get acquainted with Buddhist culture.; Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum — A former prison S-21, where thousands were held and tortured during the Khmer Rouge era. Today it is a museum telling the tragic pages of Cambodia's history. The visit requires emotional preparation.; Choeung Ek Killing Fields — A site of mass graves of victims of the Khmer Rouge regime, located 17 km from the city. A stupa with the skulls of the dead is installed here. An important historical monument reminding of the horrors of the past.; National Museum of Cambodia — The country's largest museum, dedicated to the history and culture of Cambodia. The collection includes sculptures, ceramics, and household items from ancient times to the present day. Located in a historic building in the city center.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Phnom Penh: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Fish Amok — A traditional Khmer dish: fish steamed in coconut milk with curry paste, herbs, and spices. Served in a banana leaf. An aromatic and tender dish, popular throughout Cambodia.; Lok Lak — Beef stir-fried with onion and spices, served with rice, salad, and a lime-pepper sauce. A popular dish combining Khmer and Vietnamese culinary traditions.; Khmer Curry — A thick curry with chicken, beef, or vegetables, cooked in coconut milk with potato and sweet potato. Served with rice or baguette. A warming and hearty dish.; Nom Banh Chok — Rice noodles with broth, served with herb patties, vegetables, and sauce. A traditional breakfast or lunch, popular in Phnom Penh. A light and refreshing dish.; Baguette with Pâté — A legacy of French colonialism: a fresh baguette with pâté, cucumber, carrot, and coriander. Street food, popular for breakfast or a snack.; Fried Insects — A street snack: fried crickets, grasshoppers, larvae, and spiders. Crispy and nutritious, they are part of the local culinary culture. Try if you want a thrill.; Fresh Juices and Smoothies — Tropical fruit juices and smoothies made from mango, papaya, banana, and coconut. Sold in markets and street stalls. Refreshing and healthy drinks.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Phnom Penh: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Royal Palace Area — A prestigious area in the city center, home to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and National Museum. The best hotels, restaurants, and cultural institutions are concentrated here. An ideal place for a first introduction to the city.; Sisowath Quay — A picturesque area along the Mekong River with hotels, restaurants, and bars. Popular among tourists who value river views and a lively atmosphere. In the evening, families stroll here and a night market operates.; BKK1 — A modern area with elite apartments, international restaurants, and shopping malls. Popular among expats and business travelers. It stands out for its high level of comfort and safety.; Tuol Kork — A lively residential area with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. Here you can experience the daily life of Phnom Penh and try authentic cuisine. A good choice for budget travelers.; Boeng Kak Lake Area — A developing area with modern residential complexes, offices, and entertainment venues. Popular among young people and professionals. Large shopping malls and cinemas are located here.; Daun Penh — A quiet residential area with affordable guesthouses and local restaurants. From here it is convenient to get to the center by tuk-tuk. A good choice for those seeking quiet and inexpensive accommodation.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Phnom Penh: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Phnom Penh: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Пномпень Международный Аэропорт (code PNH). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $7.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Phnom Penh: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — KHR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $43.00 (≈ 3 609 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Phnom Penh: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Phnom Penh: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Phnom Penh: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Siem Reap — A city 300 km from Phnom Penh, known for the Angkor Wat temple complex. An ideal destination for a day trip or a stop on the way to Phnom Penh. Accessible by bus or plane.; Kampong Cham — A city 120 km from Phnom Penh, known for its bamboo bridge and Koh Paen Island. A popular destination for day trips and getting acquainted with rural life in Cambodia.; Kampot — A city 150 km from Phnom Penh, known for its pepper plantations and picturesque river. An ideal destination for tasting the famous Kampot pepper and relaxing in nature.; Kep — A coastal town 170 km from Phnom Penh, known for its crab markets and beaches. A popular destination for foodies and lovers of quiet relaxation.; Sihanoukville — A major resort city 230 km from Phnom Penh, known for its beaches and nightlife. A popular destination for those who want to combine urban tourism with a beach holiday.; Kratie — A city 250 km from Phnom Penh, known for its freshwater dolphins and picturesque Mekong landscapes. A popular destination for ecotourism.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

9.8/10
Overall rank: 2 of 2 709
Rank among cities: 2

Best season

November-March

Useful information

Currency: KHR
Coordinates: 11.562400, 104.916000