Phnom Penh, Cambodia-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) and take a taxi or tuk-tuk to your hotel.
  • Breakfast: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Madam K’s Cafe (K11 Central Mall, St. 169).

Afternoon

  • National Museum of Cambodia: Visit the National Museum of Cambodia to learn about the history and culture of Cambodia. ($5 entry fee)
  • Wat Phnom: Explore Wat Phnom, a hilltop temple that offers stunning views of the city.

Evening

  • Dinner: Head to Street 51, a lively street with restaurants and bars serving local cuisine.
  • Nightlife: End the day with a drink at Absolut Bar, a popular rooftop bar.

Stay: The Frangipani Villa Hotel (approx. $30 per night)

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Hire a tuk-tuk for the day to get around the city.
  • Taxi: Use taxi apps like Grab or Go-Van.

Things to Know:

  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Weather: Phnom Penh can be hot and humid; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when visiting temples and respect local customs.

Day 2: Royal Palace and Riverside

Morning

  • Royal Palace: Visit the stunning Royal Palace, a complex of buildings that serve as the official residence of the king. ($10 entry fee)
  • Silver Pagoda: Explore the Silver Pagoda, a temple known for its stunning silver floor.

Afternoon

  • Riverside: Take a stroll along the Tonle Sap River and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Fishing Port: Visit the fishing port to see local fishermen unloading their catch.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Fish Market, a popular restaurant with a great view of the river.
  • Sunset: Watch the sunset at the riverside for a romantic and peaceful experience.

Stay: Same as Day 1 (The Frangipani Villa Hotel approx. $30 per night)

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Hire a tuk-tuk to get around the city.
  • Walking: Take a leisurely walk along the riverside.

Things to Know:

  • Royal Palace Hours: The Royal Palace is open from 8 am to 5 pm; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Respect Local Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting temples and respect local customs.

Day 3: S21 Museum and Killing Fields

Morning

  • S21 Museum: Visit the S21 Museum, a former prison camp turned museum that provides insight into Cambodia’s dark history. ($10 entry fee)
  • Killing Fields: Explore the Killing Fields, a site where thousands of people were killed during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Take a break and enjoy lunch at Friends The Restaurant, a popular restaurant with a strong social mission.
  • Tuol Sleng Museum: Visit the Tuol Sleng Museum, which showcases the history of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Madam K’s Cafe, a cozy cafe with a great atmosphere.
  • Reflection: Take time to reflect on the day’s experiences and visit the nearby park for some peace.

Stay: Same as Day 1 (The Frangipani Villa Hotel approx. $30 per night)

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Hire a tuk-tuk to get around the city.
  • Taxi: Use taxi apps like Grab or Go-Van.

Things to Know:

  • S21 Museum Hours: The S21 Museum is open from 8 am to 5 pm; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting the Killing Fields.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Phnom Penh Night Market: Visit the Phnom Penh Night Market for a lively shopping experience. (Open from 5 pm to midnight)
  • Central Market: Explore the Central Market, a bustling marketplace with local vendors selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Sorya Shopping Center, a popular shopping center with a great selection of food options.
  • Shopping: Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs or trying out local street food.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Fish Market, a restaurant with a great view of the river.
  • Nightlife: End the day with a drink at Absolut Bar, a popular rooftop bar.

Stay: Same as Day 1 (The Frangipani Villa Hotel approx. $30 per night)

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Hire a tuk-tuk to get around the city.
  • Walking: Take a leisurely walk along the riverside.

Things to Know:

  • Market Hours: The markets are open from 5 pm to midnight; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when shopping at local markets.

Day 5: Royal Botanical Garden

Morning

  • Royal Botanical Garden: Visit the stunning Royal Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. (Free entry)
  • Picnic: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the garden or bring some snacks to enjoy while exploring.

Afternoon

  • Lunch: Take a break and enjoy lunch at Madam K’s Cafe, a cozy cafe with a great atmosphere.
  • Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing in the garden or exploring the nearby park.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Fish Market, a restaurant with a great view of the river.
  • Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your last night in Phnom Penh with a farewell dinner and reflect on an amazing 5-day experience.

Stay: Same as Day 1 (The Frangipani Villa Hotel approx. $30 per night)

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks: Hire a tuk-tuk to get around the city.
  • Walking: Take a leisurely walk along the riverside.

Things to Know:

  • Royal Botanical Garden Hours: The Royal Botanical Garden is open from 8 am to 5 pm; plan your visit accordingly.
  • Respect Local Culture: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting the gardens.