Phnom Penh, Cambodia-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Phnom Penh

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at The Sugar Palm, a popular café serving Cambodian and Western dishes.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the iconic Wat Phnom, a Buddhist temple located on a hill in the heart of the city. Take a moment to admire the views of Phnom Penh from the top.

Afternoon

  • 11:00 AM: Head to the National Museum of Cambodia to learn about the country’s rich history and culture. The museum features an impressive collection of Khmer art and artifacts.
  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Madam Kep Restaurant, a cozy eatery serving traditional Cambodian cuisine.

Evening

  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Royal Palace, a grand complex that serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes when entering the palace grounds.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Street 51 Restaurant, a popular spot for Khmer and international cuisine.

Nightlife

  • 8:00 PM: Explore the bustling streets of Phnom Penh, which are filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some popular spots include The Box Bar and The Tap House.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Visit the S21 Museum, a former high school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. Take a somber tour of the museum to learn about Cambodia’s dark history.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, a memorial site that commemorates the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Friends Restaurant, a social enterprise restaurant that supports street children and provides delicious Cambodian cuisine.
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Silver Pagoda, a stunning temple complex featuring a magnificent silver-clothed Buddha image.

Evening

  • 4:00 PM: Head back to your hotel for some downtime before enjoying dinner at one of Phnom Penh’s many restaurants.
  • 7:00 PM: Consider taking a sunset cruise along the Mekong River to see the city from a different perspective.

Accommodation

Phnom Penh has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:

Transportation

Phnom Penh has a relatively efficient public transportation system, including:

  • Tuk-tuks: Motorized three-wheeled vehicles that are a popular mode of transportation.
  • Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike is a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas.
  • Taxi: Grab taxis or use ride-sharing apps like Grab or PassApp.

Tips

  • Be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
  • Try local street food, but be sure to eat from vendors with a good reputation.
  • Learn some basic Khmer phrases to interact with locals.
  • Respect the environment and culture by not littering or disrupting public spaces.

Other Things of Interest

  • Night Market: Visit the night market on Street 118 for a wide range of goods, including souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks.
  • Phnom Penh’s Markets: Explore the city’s many markets, such as the Central Market (Psar Thmei) or the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Pong).
  • Sunset Views: Find a spot to watch the sunset over the Mekong River for a beautiful view of Phnom Penh.