Phnom Penh, Cambodia-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Phnom Penh

  • Morning: Arrive at Phnom Penh International Airport
  • Afternoon: Check-in at [Hotel Name] (see below for recommendations)
  • Activity: Explore the local market, Psar Tuol Tom Pong, to get a feel for Cambodian culture and try some street food
  • Evening: Have dinner at [Restaurant Name] (see below for recommendations) to try traditional Khmer cuisine
  • Tip: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas

Day 2: Royal Palace and National Museum

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace, one of Cambodia’s most iconic landmarks ( tickets: $10, opens at 8am)
  • Afternoon: Explore the adjacent National Museum to learn about Cambodian history and culture (tickets: $5, opens at 9am)
  • Activity: Take a stroll around the palace grounds and visit the Silver Pagoda
  • Food: Grab lunch at a street food stall near the palace or try [Restaurant Name]
  • Evening: Enjoy a sunset view of the Tonle Sap River from Sunset Park
  • Tip: Be respectful when visiting temples and royal palaces

Day 3: S21 Museum and Killing Fields

  • Morning: Visit the S21 Museum, a former prison turned museum (tickets: $10, opens at 7:30am)
  • Afternoon: Head to the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek (tickets: $10, opens at 8am) to pay respects to victims of the Khmer Rouge regime
  • Activity: Take some time to reflect on the history and tragedy that occurred here
  • Food: Try [Restaurant Name] for lunch or grab street food near the museum
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or try [Restaurant Name]
  • Tip: Be prepared for a somber experience

Day 4: Central Market and Russian Market

  • Morning: Visit Psar Thmei, also known as the Central Market (opens at 6am), to see the bustling streets and try some street food
  • Afternoon: Explore Psar Ruessei Keo, also known as the Russian Market (opens at 8am), for unique souvenirs and shopping experience
  • Activity: Try your hand at bargaining with vendors or take a break in the air-conditioned space
  • Food: Grab lunch at [Restaurant Name] or try street food near the markets
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant or try [Restaurant Name]
  • Tip: Be mindful of pickpocketing and scams

Day 5: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

  • Morning: Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former high school turned prison (tickets: $10, opens at 8am)
  • Activity: Take some time to reflect on the history and tragedy that occurred here
  • Food: Try [Restaurant Name] for lunch or grab street food near the museum
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or try [Restaurant Name]
  • Tip: Be prepared for a somber experience

Day 6: Waterfront and Street Art

  • Morning: Explore the Phnom Penh Waterfront, where locals come to exercise, socialize, and enjoy the views of the Tonle Sap River
  • Afternoon: Discover street art in the city, including works by local artists like [Artist Name]
  • Activity: Take a break at a cafe or restaurant along the waterfront to relax and people-watch
  • Food: Try [Restaurant Name] for lunch or grab street food near the waterfront
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant or try [Restaurant Name]
  • Tip: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas

Day 7: Last Day in Phnom Penh

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs, visiting any last-minute attractions, or simply relaxing at the hotel
  • Activity: Have a farewell lunch at [Restaurant Name] or try street food near the markets
  • Evening: Depart from Phnom Penh International Airport

Places to Stay:

  • [Hotel Name]: A mid-range hotel with clean rooms and a great location (starting price: $20)
  • [Guesthouse Name]: A budget-friendly option with simple but clean rooms (starting price: $10)

Recommended Restaurants:

  • [Restaurant Name]: Try their famous fish amok for lunch or dinner
  • [Restaurant Name]: Enjoy traditional Khmer cuisine in a cozy atmosphere

Getting Around:

  • Tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws): A fun and affordable way to get around the city (starting price: $3)
  • Taxi: Available at airports, hotels, and major intersections (starting price: $5)
  • Walking: The best way to explore local markets and neighborhoods

Tips and Essentials:

  • Be respectful of Khmer culture and traditions
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
  • Try some local snacks and street food for an authentic experience
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended in crowded areas

Other Things to Know:

  • Phnom Penh has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: hot (March-May) and cool (December-February)
  • Cambodia has a growing expat community, so you may meet fellow travelers from around the world
  • Be prepared for occasional power outages or water shortages during the rainy season