Who should go to Phnom Penh and who should not?
Phnom Penh is a vibrant and lively city that has a lot to offer visitors. It is the capital and largest city of Cambodia, and it has a rich cultural history and a number of interesting attractions. Some of the highlights of the city include the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Wat Phnom temple, and the Toul Sleng Genocide Museum. The city is also known for its bustling markets, delicious local cuisine, and lively nightlife. But is it worth visiting?
For those interested in history, culture, and urban experiences, Phnom Penh is worth visiting. The city can be quite hectic and chaotic, with busy traffic and limited infrastructure in some areas. But with careful planning you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Phnom Penh.
The main attractions in Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh has a number of interesting attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the main ones
The Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is a major attraction in Phnom Penh, and it is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Built in the 19th century, it is a stunning complex of buildings, temples, and gardens that reflects the country's cultural and architectural heritage.
The palace is open to the public for tours, and visitors can explore the main throne hall, the silver pagoda, and other areas of the palace grounds.
The National Museum of Cambodia
The National Museum of Cambodia is a must-see for anyone interested in the country's history and culture. It houses a large collection of Khmer artifacts, including statues and other artwork from the Angkorian period. The museum is located in a beautiful traditional Khmer building, and it offers a fascinating insight into the art, culture, and history of Cambodia.
The Wat Phnom temple
The Wat Phnom temple is a Buddhist temple located on a hill in the center of the city. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to visit, and it offers panoramic views of the city. The temple is named after the hill it sits on, which means "Hill Temple" in Khmer, and it is surrounded by gardens and other smaller temples.
Wat Phnom is home to a number of exotic birds, including the Great Hornbill (or concave-casqued hornbill), an impressive species known for its large size and distinctive casque on its beak. Visitors to Wat Phnom can often spot these striking (and very large!) birds perched in the trees around the temple grounds. The hordbills can be observed hunting if you stay with them long enough. We managed to see two successful hunts, a mouse the first time and a frog or toad the second time around.
The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum
The Toul Sleng Genocide Museum is a sobering reminder of the country's recent history. It was once a high school that was converted into a prison by the Khmer Rouge regime, and it is now a museum that documents the atrocities that occurred during that time. The museum is located in a former prison building, and it features exhibits and displays about the Khmer Rouge's brutal regime and the suffering of its victims.
The Phnom Penh Riverside
The Phnom Penh Riverside is a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the views of the Tonle Sap River merging into the Mekong River. There are several restaurants, bars, and cafes along the riverbank, and it is a great place to watch the sunrise. The Riverside is also home to the Independence Monument and other landmarks, and it is a popular place for street performers and other entertainment.
Other attractions worth seeing
Here are the minor attractions that are still worth exploring to get an understanding for what Cambodia is like these days.
The Central Market
The Central Market is a large and bustling market located in the center of the city. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other local products, and it is a fun place to wander and experience the local culture. Be sure to come during the daytime, the market is not open at night.
The Russian Market
The Russian Market is a popular market located in the south of the city, and it is known for its wide selection of handicrafts, clothing, and other local products. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, and it is also a good place to try some local food.
The Sorya Shopping Center
The Sorya Shopping Center is a modern mall located in the center of the city. It has a wide range of stores and restaurants, and it is a good place to escape the heat and the crowds.
The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center
The Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is a sanctuary for rescued wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and other animals. It is located about an hour south of the city, and it is a great place to learn about conservation and see some of Cambodia's amazing wildlife up close.
Is Phnom Penh family friendly?
Phnom Penh can be a somewhat family-friendly destination, with a number of attractions and activities that are suitable for children. However, it is important to be aware of the potential challenges and risks that can come with traveling with children in a developing country such as Cambodia.
One of the main challenges is the traffic, which can be chaotic and dangerous. There seem to be no road rules at all and if there are, then locals ignore them regularly. It is important to be extra cautious when walking around or crossing the street, and to consider hiring a tuk-tuk or taxi when traveling around the city. It is also a good idea to be aware of the potential for crime and scams, and to take precautions to keep your family safe.
Another challenge is avoiding leaving bad impressions on your children in certain areas. Phnom Penh has a red light district located at Oknha In Street (or Street 136), very close to the riverfront area and main attractions. It is known for its bars, clubs, and other establishments that cater to tourists and expats. The area is generally safe during the daytime, but it can be quite seedy and unsafe after dark, particularly for families. We suggest avoiding it with children.
Despite these challenges, Phnom Penh has a number of family-friendly attractions that are worth visiting. These include the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Wat Phnom temple, and the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center. The city also has a number of parks and playgrounds, and there are several malls and other shopping centers that have family-friendly facilities.
How do I get around in Phnom Penh?
One word: Grab, the Uber of South East Asia! But there are a number of ways to get around Phnom Penh, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some options to consider:
- Walking: Phnom Penh is a relatively small city, and it is possible to walk around some areas. However, it is important to be aware of the traffic and to take precautions when crossing the street.
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Tuk-tuk:
A tuk tuk is a small, three-wheeled vehicle that is commonly used as a taxi in Phnom Penh. Tuk-tuks are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around the city, and they can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through a tuk-tuk company. It is a good idea to negotiate the fare before starting the journey, as tuk tuk drivers may try to charge higher prices to tourists. Read on for a way to side step that using Grab!
Tuk tuks are a great way to get around Phnom Penh - Taxi: Taxis are a convenient and relatively inexpensive way to get around Phnom Penh. There are several taxi companies operating in the city, and you can either hail a taxi on the street or book one in advance through a phone app or a taxi service. It is a good idea to use a reputable company and to make sure that the taxi has a meter, as this will help ensure that you are charged a fair price.
- Motorbike taxi: Motorbike taxis, also known as "motodops," are a common and convenient way to get around Phnom Penh. They are typically cheaper than tuk-tuks or taxis, and they can navigate through the city's narrow streets and traffic more easily. However, they can be more dangerous, as they are exposed to the elements and the traffic, and it is important to be aware of the risks.
- Grab: Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia that is similar to Uber. It is a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you are not familiar with the local transportation options or if you want to avoid the hectic traffic. You can request a ride through the app and pay for it with a credit card or other payment method. Most importantly, you pay the local rate and do not have to negitiate your way there. Grab is your best freind to get around Phnom Penh. Choose between Car or Tuk Tuk inside the app.
Pass is a ride-hailing app that is similar to Grab and Uber, and it is available Phnom Penh. It is worth noting that Grab is more widely used and accepted in Cambodia, and it may be more reliable and convenient than Pass. Local Cambodians prefer Grab over Pass, as it is more established and has a larger user base. My barista told me not to use Pass and go for Grab instead.
How much time do you need in Phnom Penh?
The amount of time you need in Phnom Penh will depend on your interests and the activities you want to do. Here are a few factors to consider:
- Sightseeing: Phnom Penh has a number of top attractions, including the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Wat Phnom temple, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. You can expect to spend several hours at each of these attractions, and you may want to allow a full day to explore the city's main sights.
- Cultural experiences: Phnom Penh has a rich and vibrant culture, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in the local way of life. You could visit a local market, take a cooking class, or participate in a cultural workshop. These activities can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the specific experience you choose.
- Relaxing: If you just want to relax and unwind, you can find a number of comfortable hotels, spas, and cafes in Phnom Penh. You can spend your time exploring the city at a leisurely pace, or you can simply relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Overall, it is a good idea to allow at least a few days to explore Phnom Penh, as there are many interesting and diverse experiences to be had. Phnom Penh is an excellent first stop in Cambodia, if you want to travel onwards to Siem Reap for Angkor Wat.
Budget for Phnom Penh. How much is a week here?
A week is probably the longest most poeple would want to spend in Phnom Penh and the cost of a week in Phnom Penh can vary significantly depending on your travel style and budget. Here is a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay in various categories:
- Luxury: If you are planning a luxury trip to Phnom Penh and are willing to splurge on accommodation, dining, and activities, you can expect to pay around $100-$200 per night for a top-end hotel or resort. This could bring the total cost of a week to around $700-$1,400 or more, depending on your other expenses.
- Mid-range: If you are looking for a more moderate budget, you can expect to pay around $50-$100 per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse. This could bring the total cost of a week to around $350-$700, depending on your other expenses.
- Budget: If you are traveling on a tight budget, you can find accommodation in Phnom Penh for as little as $5-$10 per night for a basic guesthouse or hostel. This could bring the total cost of a week to around $35-$70, depending on your other expenses.
Keep in mind that these estimates are rough and are intended to give you a general idea of the costs involved.
The best Restaurants for foodies
Phnom Penh has a number of areas with a high concentration of good restaurants. Here are a few suggestions:
The Riverside
The Riverside is a popular area for dining, and it has a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. The area is known for its international cuisine, and there are options ranging from Italian to Mexican to Thai. The Riverside is also a great place to watch the sunset, and there are several outdoor seating options with views of the Mekong River. Take care here if you're travelling with children to avoid Oknha In Street (or Street 136).
Street 240
Many streets in Phnom Penh just have numbers. Street 240 is a popular street in the center of the city that is known for its restaurants, cafes, and bars. The street has a lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere, and it is a great place to try a variety of different cuisines. There are many options for dining, including local Khmer food, international dishes, and vegetarian options.
Street 178
Street 178 is a street in the center of the city that is known for its art galleries and boutique shops. The street also has a number of excellent restaurants, including traditional Khmer food, international dishes, and vegetarian options. The street has a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, and it is a great place to spend an evening dining and exploring.
Some good restaurants:
Where amy and I went yesterday. Decent portions, good prices
- Romdeng: Romdeng is a popular restaurant that serves traditional Khmer cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a range of dishes, including stir-fries, curries, and grilled meats, and the ingredients are locally sourced and organic. The restaurant also has a social mission, as it employs and trains young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Friends: Friends is a well-known restaurant in Phnom Penh that serves traditional Khmer food in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The menu features a range of dishes, including grilled meats, soups, and rice dishes, and it also has a selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant is popular with locals and tourists alike, and it has a number of branches around the city.
- Malis: Malis is a high-end restaurant that serves traditional Khmer cuisine in a chic and sophisticated setting. The menu features a range of dishes, including grilled meats, curries, and seafood, and the ingredients are locally sourced and of the highest quality. The restaurant has a number of branches around the city, and it is known for its excellent food and service.
- The Happy Grill: The Happy Grill is a popular restaurant that serves a range of international dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The menu is extensive, and there are options for vegetarians as well. The restaurant is located in the center of the city, and it has a casual and lively atmosphere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Phnom Penh is a city with a rich history and culture that can be a rewarding destination for travelers interested in experiencing the local way of life. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges and risks that can come with traveling to a developing country, such as chaotic traffic, crime, and scams. Whether Phnom Penh is worth it will depend on your personal interests and travel style.
Why trust us?
We have been traveling the world for over a decade and have recently had the opportunity to visit Phnom Penh. As experienced travelers, we have had the chance to see and experience many different places around the globe, and we can say with confidence that Phnom Penh is a unique and fascinating destination. Our time there was filled with meaningful cultural experiences and opportunities to learn about the local history and way of life. We are happy to share our firsthand account of Phnom Penh with others who may be considering a visit to the city.