Welcome to our comprehensive guide to exploring Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital city, in just 5 days. Your Phnom Penh itinerary covers the top attractions, must-visit places, and unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or a foodie, Phnom Penh has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the intriguing history of Cambodia’s past, bask in its warm and friendly culture, and indulge in its mouthwatering cuisine.
Ready to uncover the magic of this captivating city? Let’s dive into your Phnom Penh itinerary 5 days.
Best Phnom Penh 5-Day Itinerary
To make the most of your 5-day adventure in Phnom Penh, we have put together the ultimate itinerary that covers the must-visit places in the city. From historical landmarks to cultural marvels and delicious cuisine, this itinerary has it all.
Day 1: Exploring Phnom Penh’s Historical Gems
Start your Phnom Penh adventure by exploring the city’s rich history. Head to the Royal Palace, which served as the home of the Cambodian Kings since the 1860s. Admire the stunning architecture and intricate details of the Silver Pagoda, located within the palace walls. Then, make your way to the National Museum and learn about Cambodia’s fascinating past through the impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits.
Day 2: Discovering Cultural Marvels in Phnom Penh
On day 2, immerse yourself in Phnom Penh’s vibrant culture. Start your day by exploring the bustling Central Market, where you can find a variety of local goods, from spices and fabrics to souvenirs. Take a stroll along the riverside promenade to enjoy the stunning views of the Mekong River, and then head to Wat Phnom, a colorful temple that is considered the spiritual heart of Phnom Penh.
Day 3: Unraveling Dark History in Phnom Penh
Prepare yourself for a sobering experience as you step into Phnom Penh’s dark history on day 3. Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former Khmer Rouge prison that now serves as a museum to honor the victims of the regime. Then, head to the Killing Fields, a somber reminder of the atrocities that took place during this dark period of Cambodia’s history.
Day 4: Indulging in Local Cuisine and Markets
On day 4, satisfy your taste buds with some of Phnom Penh’s delicious cuisine. Head to the Russian Market, where you can find a variety of street food, including traditional Khmer dishes like Amok and Lok Lak. Then, wander around the Phsar Thmei (Central Market) to shop for unique souvenirs and local goods.
Day 5: Relaxing and Reflecting in Phnom Penh
On your last day in Phnom Penh, take a break from sightseeing and relax. Visit Wat Botum Park, a peaceful park located near the Royal Palace, where you can unwind and reflect on your trip. Indulge in a traditional Khmer massage to rejuvenate your body and mind before heading back home.
Day 1: Exploring Phnom Penh’s Historical Gems
Start your Phnom Penh itinerary by discovering the city’s rich history and visiting its top attractions. Begin your day with a trip to the Royal Palace, located on the banks of the Mekong River. The palace served as the residence of the King of Cambodia until the early 20th century and is now a popular tourist destination.
Next, head to the Silver Pagoda, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. The pagoda houses a stunning collection of Buddha statues, including a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with over 9,000 diamonds.
Continue your historical tour by visiting the National Museum of Cambodia, which houses the world’s largest collection of Khmer art. Admire the ancient sculptures, ceramics, and textiles on display, each telling a story of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.
End your day with a sunset cruise along the Mekong River, offering stunning views of the city’s skyline from the water.
Day 2: Discovering Cultural Marvels in Phnom Penh
On the second day of your 5-day itinerary in Phnom Penh, it’s time to discover the city’s vibrant culture. From bustling markets to historic temples, there’s no shortage of essential sights to see in Phnom Penh. Here are some of the top things to do:
1. Central Market
A trip to Phnom Penh wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Central Market. This bustling market is filled with vendors selling everything from traditional handicrafts to fresh produce. Take your time to explore the market and be sure to try some of the delicious street food.
2. Riverside Promenade
A stroll along the riverside promenade is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Phnom Penh. Take a leisurely walk or rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace. You’ll have the opportunity to see iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda from a unique perspective.
3. Wat Phnom
Located in the heart of the city, Wat Phnom is a colorful and ornate temple that is worth a visit. Built in 1372, this temple is steeped in history and serves as a symbol of the capital city.
These are just a few of the essential sights to see in Phnom Penh. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Phnom Penh in 5 days.
Day 3: Unraveling Dark History in Phnom Penh
As you continue to explore Phnom Penh in 5 days, it’s crucial to take a deeper dive into the country’s dark history. A visit to the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields will offer a somber and humbling experience, but it’s an essential part of understanding Cambodia’s past and present.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Located in a former high school, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a stark reminder of the Khmer Rouge regime’s atrocities. You’ll witness the horrific torture and imprisonment of thousands of innocent people, and learn about the country’s painful past through the museum’s exhibitions and informative audio guides.
Choeung Ek Killing Fields
A short drive from the museum lies the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, a site of mass graves and mass murders. This once peaceful orchard was transformed into a brutal killing ground during the Khmer Rouge regime, where countless Cambodians were brutally executed and buried in mass graves. Today, the site stands as a memorial to the victims and a reminder of the country’s tragic past.
After a sobering day of exploring Phnom Penh’s darker history, take some time to reflect and process what you’ve learned. Allow yourself some downtime before continuing on your Phnom Penh itinerary the following day.
Day 4: Indulging in Local Cuisine and Markets
Day 4 of your Phnom Penh travel guide is all about experiencing the city’s culinary delights and exploring its vibrant markets. Phnom Penh is a foodie’s paradise, where you can find a vast array of dishes and flavors from across Cambodia and beyond.
Start your day by visiting the Russian Market, also known as Toul Tom Poung Market. This bustling market is a treasure trove of souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts. Take some time to wander through the narrow alleys and discover unique items such as traditional Khmer clothing, Cambodian silk scarves, and handmade jewelry.
After working up an appetite, head to Phsar Thmei (Central Market) for some delicious street food. This iconic market is one of the largest in Phnom Penh and has an impressive selection of local delicacies. Sample some of the city’s best street food, such as beef skewers, sweet sticky rice, and banh mi sandwiches.
Must-Try Dishes in Phnom Penh
| Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Amok | A traditional Cambodian dish made with fish, coconut milk, and curry paste, steamed in banana leaves. |
| Lok Lak | A popular Khmer dish made with stir-fried beef, served with rice, lettuce, and a tangy lime and black pepper sauce. |
| Bai Sach Chrouk | A breakfast dish that consists of grilled pork served over rice with pickled vegetables and a side of broth. |
After lunch, continue your foodie adventure by exploring the city’s many cafes and restaurants. Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of Phnom Penh’s trendy cafes, such as Brown Coffee or Jars of Clay.
If you’re up for something more adventurous, head to Romdeng restaurant, which serves up Cambodian street food with a twist. Try their fried tarantulas or crispy crickets for a truly unique dining experience.
End your day by visiting the Night Market, located along the riverside promenade. Here, you can find a range of souvenirs, clothing, and street food stalls. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river and take in the sights and sounds of this bustling market.
Day 4 of your recommended itinerary for Phnom Penh is the perfect way to experience the city’s vibrant food scene and immerse yourself in its bustling markets. Don’t forget to try some traditional Cambodian dishes and sample the local street food!
Day 5: Relaxing and Reflecting in Phnom Penh
After a few busy days exploring Phnom Penh, it’s time to take a break and relax. On day 5 of your itinerary, you’ll have the chance to unwind and reflect on your incredible journey.
Start the day with a visit to Wat Botum Park. This peaceful oasis is located in the heart of the city and features a beautiful pond, greenery, and a traditional Khmer temple. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the serenity.
Next up, indulge in a traditional Khmer massage. There are plenty of spas and massage parlors around Phnom Penh, so you’ll have no trouble finding a place to unwind and pamper yourself.
Finish off your day of relaxation with some quiet reflection. Take the time to journal about your experiences, meditate, or simply sit and soak up the atmosphere of this incredible city.
Your 5-day itinerary in Phnom Penh has come to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime. Take some time to reflect on your journey and all that you have experienced. Whether you immersed yourself in the history and culture of the city, indulged in local cuisine, or simply relaxed and took in the sights and sounds, Phnom Penh has something for everyone.
Don’t forget to share your experiences with friends and family and inspire them to explore Phnom Penh for themselves. Thank you for choosing us as your guide to this captivating city.
Exploring Beyond Phnom Penh
If you have some extra time during your visit to Phnom Penh, we highly recommend exploring the nearby attractions outside of the city. Take a day trip to the picturesque Koh Dach, commonly known as Silk Island, located just 15 km away from Phnom Penh. Koh Dach is renowned for its silk weaving industry, and you can witness the fascinating process of silk making, from spinning to dyeing to weaving. You can also purchase beautiful silk products as souvenirs.
Another popular day trip destination is the historic town of Udong, located about 40 km north of Phnom Penh. Once the royal capital of Cambodia, Udong boasts a rich history and magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Visit the hilltop stupas, enjoy a picnic, and delve into the town’s cultural and religious heritage.
Make sure to hire a reputable tour company or a trusted tuk-tuk driver to take you to these destinations. You can negotiate a fair price for the trip, and they can also offer insights and recommendations to enhance your experience.
Getting Around Phnom Penh
Getting around Phnom Penh is fairly easy, and there are several transportation options you can choose from to help you get around the city with ease. Here are some of the most popular ways to get around:
| Transportation Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tuk-Tuks | Affordable, readily available, and can navigate through traffic easily | Not ideal for long distances or during rush hour |
| Taxis | Comfortable, air-conditioned, and can go longer distances | May be more expensive than other options |
| Moto-Remorks | Similar to tuk-tuks, affordable and can navigate through traffic easily | Not as safe as other options and not ideal for long distances |
| Buses | Cheap and convenient for longer distances | Can be crowded and may not be as reliable as other options |
For shorter distances, tuk-tuks and moto-remorks are the most convenient and affordable options. You can negotiate the price with the driver before getting in, and make sure to agree on a price beforehand.
If you’re planning on taking a taxi, make sure to use a metered taxi or arrange a price before getting in to avoid being overcharged. You can also book taxis through ride-hailing apps like PassApp or Grab.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to get a taste of local life, you can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike to explore the city on your own. Just make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules!
Overall, getting around Phnom Penh is relatively easy, and with the right transportation option, you can navigate the city with ease and explore all of its top attractions.
Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your Phnom Penh adventure. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options to suit all budgets and preferences.
For a luxury stay, consider the Raffles Hotel Le Royal. This iconic hotel combines French colonial elegance with modern amenities, and is located in the heart of the city.
If you’re looking for mid-range options, there are several great hotels in the Riverside district, such as the Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort. These hotels offer stunning views of the Tonle Sap River and easy access to top attractions in Phnom Penh.
Backpackers and budget travelers will be happy to know that there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and hostels in the city. Check out Mad Monkey Hostel or Eighty8 Backpackers for a fun and social atmosphere.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Phnom Penh
The Riverside district is the most popular area for tourists, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions nearby. Other great neighborhoods to consider include BKK1, the upmarket area known for its trendy cafes and boutiques, and Toul Tom Poung, also known as the Russian Market area, which offers great shopping opportunities.
Top Accommodations in Phnom Penh by Neighborhood
| Neighborhood | Accommodation | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Riverside | Aquarius Hotel and Urban Resort | $$ |
| Riverside | Palace Gate Hotel and Resort | $$$ |
| Riverside | TeaHouse Asian Urban Hotel | $$ |
| BKK1 | White Mansion | $$$ |
| BKK1 | Kabiki | $$ |
| BKK1 | La Rose Suites | $$$ |
| Toul Tom Poung | Onederz Phnom Penh | $ |
| Toul Tom Poung | Mad Monkey Hostel | $ |
| Toul Tom Poung | Eighty8 Backpackers | $ |
No matter where you choose to stay, make sure to book your accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment during peak tourist season. With the right accommodation, you’ll be able to make the most of your 5-day adventure in Phnom Penh.
Conclusion
As you wrap up your 5-day Phnom Penh adventure, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in this vibrant city. From immersing yourself in the rich history and culture to indulging in delicious cuisine and shopping at bustling markets, Phnom Penh has something for everyone.
We hope this comprehensive Phnom Penh travel guide has been helpful in planning your itinerary and discovering the top attractions in Phnom Penh. Don’t forget to explore beyond the city by taking a day trip to nearby destinations like Koh Dach or Udong.
As you navigate the city, make use of the various transportation options available, including tuk-tuks and taxis, to get around with ease. And when it comes to accommodations, our guide has provided you with the best neighborhoods to stay in for a comfortable and convenient experience.
Thank you for choosing Phnom Penh as your travel destination! We hope you’ve enjoyed your stay and created memories that will last a lifetime.
