Phnom Penh, Cambodia-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to your hotel (approximately $10-$15)
  • Check-in: Check-in at Hotel Name in the city center

Afternoon

  • Visit National Museum of Cambodia: Explore the country’s rich history and culture at this world-class museum (open 8am-5pm, $10 entry fee)
  • Walk along the Mekong River: Take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the views of the Tonle Sap River (free)

Evening

  • Dinner: Head to Street 11 for a variety of restaurants and street food (budget $10-$20 per meal)
  • Nightlife: End the day with a drink at The Top Roof Bar on the 9th floor of the Naga Tower

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
  • Language: Khmer is the official language, but many locals speak English
  • Currency: Cambodian Riel (KHR) is the local currency, although USD is widely accepted

Day 2: Royal Palace and Wat Phnom

Morning

  • Visit the Royal Palace: Explore the opulent palace and its beautiful gardens (open 7:30am-5pm, $10 entry fee)
  • Wat Phnom: Visit this hilltop temple and enjoy the views of the city (free)

Afternoon

  • Street Art: Wander through the streets and alleys to discover vibrant street art and graffiti (free)
  • Shopping: Head to Central Market for local souvenirs and shopping (budget $10-$20 per item)

Evening

  • Dinner: Try Fish Amok, a traditional Khmer dish (budget $10-$20 per meal)
  • Nightlife: Visit The Sky Bar on the 22nd floor of the Naga Tower for stunning views and cocktails

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Dress Code: Dress modestly when visiting temples or palaces
  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals or ceremonies

Day 3: Killing Fields and S21 Museum

Morning

  • Visit the Killing Fields: Learn about the country’s dark history at this somber museum (open 7am-6pm, $10 entry fee)
  • S21 Museum: Explore the former prison and torture center during the Khmer Rouge regime (open 7:30am-5pm, $10 entry fee)

Afternoon

  • Toul Sleng Genocide Museum: Visit this museum to learn more about the Khmer Rouge’s atrocities (open 8am-6pm, $10 entry fee)
  • Royal Palace Gardens: Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Royal Palace (free)

Evening

  • Dinner: Head to The Sugar Palm for delicious Khmer and French cuisine (budget $10-$20 per meal)
  • Nightlife: Visit The Red Star Pub for a lively atmosphere and live music

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Emotional Preparation: Be prepared for emotionally challenging experiences when visiting the Killing Fields and S21 Museum
  • Respectful Behavior: Treat these sites with respect, silence your camera, and avoid taking selfies or making jokes

Day 4: Relaxation Day

Morning

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Teav Taing Hotel (budget $5-$10 per meal)
  • Massage: Treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the hotel or a nearby spa (budget $20-$30 per hour)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Botanical Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the local flora (free)
  • Take a Dip: Relax by the pool or take a dip in the city’s water park (budget $5-$10 per person)

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Fisherman’s Wharf for seafood and great views (budget $10-$20 per meal)
  • Nightlife: Visit The Bar Street for a lively atmosphere and drinks (budget $5-$10 per drink)

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Take it Easy: Enjoy some downtime and relaxation after the previous days’ activities
  • Local Tips: Ask locals for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, or relax

Day 5: Explore the City

Morning

  • Visit the Russian Market: Browse through this bustling market for souvenirs, shopping, and food (free)
  • Take a Taxi Tour: Hire a taxi for a city tour (budget $20-$30 per hour)

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Library: Explore the beautiful library and learn about Khmer literature (free)
  • Walk along the Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the Tonle Sap River (free)

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Mekong River Restaurant for Khmer and international cuisine (budget $10-$20 per meal)
  • Nightlife: Visit The Pub Street for a lively atmosphere and drinks (budget $5-$10 per drink)

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Explore the City: Take some time to explore the city’s hidden gems and local secrets
  • Support Local Businesses: Support local businesses, restaurants, and shops to help the community

Day 6: Departure

  • Check-out: Check-out from The Teav Taing Hotel
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or tuk-tuk back to the airport (approximately $10-$15)

Tips and Things to Know:

  • Packing: Don’t forget to pack your belongings, including any souvenirs you may have purchased
  • Gratitude: Express gratitude to the locals, your hotel staff, and anyone who helped make your trip enjoyable.