Phnom Penh, Cambodia-3-day-itinerary
Day 1: Royal Palace and Wat Phnom
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Start the day with a visit to the iconic [Royal Palace] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Palace,_Phnom_Penh), a stunning example of Khmer architecture. The palace complex includes several impressive buildings, including the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda.
- 10:30 AM: From there, head to the nearby [Wat Phnom] (http://www.watphnom.com/), one of the city’s most revered temples.
Lunch
- 12:00 PM: Grab some lunch at Madam Butterfly (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293607-d1316265-Reviews-Madam_Butterfly-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html), a popular restaurant serving traditional Khmer cuisine. Try the Fish Amok, a flavorful fish curry dish.
Afternoon
- 1:30 PM: Visit the [National Museum] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Museum_of_Cambodia), which houses an impressive collection of Khmer artifacts and art.
- 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the Tonle Sap River and explore the surrounding streets, lined with shops, markets, and restaurants.
Evening
- 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Fish House (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293607-d1271231-Reviews-The_Fish_House-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html), a restaurant serving fresh seafood.
- 9:00 PM: End the day with a relaxing walk along the riverfront, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Day 2: Genocide Museum and Russian Market
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Visit the [Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuol_Sleng_Genocide_Museum), a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s tumultuous past.
- 11:00 AM: From there, head to the nearby [Choeung Ek Killing Fields] (http://www.choeungek.com/), a somber site that commemorates the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Grab some lunch at Friends Restaurant (https://www.friendsrestaurant.org/), a social enterprise restaurant serving delicious meals while supporting local students.
- 2:30 PM: Visit the [Russian Market] (http://russianmarketphnompenh.com/), a bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
Afternoon
- 4:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets, lined with shops and markets.
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a drink at The Pavilion (https://www.thepavilion.info/), a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city.
Evening
- 7:30 PM: Have dinner at Le Bistrot des Anges (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293607-d1271240-Reviews-Le_Bistrot_des_Anges-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html), a French-inspired restaurant.
- 9:30 PM: End the day with a visit to the Night Market, a lively marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
Day 3: Independence Monument and Killing Fields
Morning
- 9:00 AM: Visit the [Independence Monument] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Monument,_Phnom_Penh), a symbol of Cambodia’s fight for independence.
- 11:00 AM: From there, head to the nearby [Victory Bridge] (http://www.victorybridge.com.phnompenh.kh/), which offers stunning views of the city.
Lunch
- 1:00 PM: Grab some lunch at Street 51 Cafe (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g293607-d1271247-Reviews-Street_51_Cafe-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html), a cozy cafe serving delicious sandwiches.
- 2:30 PM: Visit the [Russian Market] (http://russianmarketphnompenh.com/) again, or explore other nearby markets.
Afternoon
- 4:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets, lined with shops and markets.
- 6:00 PM: Enjoy a drink at The Factory (https://www.thefactoryasia.com/), a trendy bar and cafe complex.
Evening
- 7:30 PM: Have dinner at Malis Restaurant (https://www.malisrestaurant.com/), a renowned restaurant serving traditional Khmer cuisine.
- 9:30 PM: End the day with a visit to the Night Market, or simply relax back at your accommodation.
Where to Stay
There are many great hotels and guesthouses in Phnom Penh, ranging from budget-friendly options like:
- [Situations Guesthouse] (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293607-d1316266-Reviews-Situation_Guesthouse-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html)
- [The Central Boutique Hotel] (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293607-d1271239-Reviews-The_Central_Boutique_Hotel-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html)
to more upscale hotels like:
- [Raffles Phnom Penh] (https://www.raffles.com/hotels-in-asia/cambodia/phnom-penh/raffles-phnom-penh/)
- [The Frangipani Royal Palace Hotel] (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293607-d1271242-Reviews-The_Frangipani_Royal_Palace_Hotel-Phnom_Penh_Cambodia.html)
Transportation
Phnom Penh is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, there are also plenty of options for getting around:
- Tuk-tuks: A classic Cambodian mode of transportation, tuk-tuks can be hired for short trips or longer excursions.
- Motorbike taxis: Quick and affordable, motorbike taxis are a popular way to get around the city.
- Taxi apps: Ride-hailing services like Grab and Tuk-Tuk Cambodia offer easy and convenient transportation options.
Tips
- Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye out for scams or unwanted attention.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.
- Bring sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Other Things to Know
- Healthcare: Phnom Penh has several good hospitals, including the Kanika Medical Center and the International SOS Clinic.
- Language: Khmer is the official language of Cambodia, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. You may also hear French and Chinese languages spoken by locals.
- Currency: The Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted and often used as a substitute.
- Weather: Phnom Penh has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F). Be prepared for high humidity during the rainy season.