Phnom Penh 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historical & Cultural Sites

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Baker’s Delight Cambodia, famous for its pastries and coffee. (Address: #7 Street 240, Boeung Keng Kang 1)
  • Visit the Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda complex, home to the King of Cambodia and several stunning temples. (Address: Samdach Sothearos Blvd)
  • Next, head to the National Museum of Cambodia to learn about Khmer history and art. (Address: 13 Boulevard Sisowath Quay)

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Friends The Restaurant, a social enterprise training restaurant for underprivileged youths. (Address: #3 Moha Mongkol Blvd, Phnom Penh)
  • Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum to understand Cambodia’s tragic past during the Khmer Rouge regime. (Address: Villa 359 Preah Monivong Blvd, Sangkat Tonle Bassac)
  • End your day at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek, a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge era.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Romdeng, another social enterprise restaurant offering authentic Cambodian cuisine. (Address: #136 Norodom Blvd)
  • Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance performance at Phnom Penh Night Market. (Address: Preah Sisowath Quay)

Day 2: Discovering Modern Phnom Penh

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at the vibrant Elegy Coffee Brewers. (Address: #9 Street 308)
  • Explore the bustling Central Market (Phsar Thmei), offering a variety of local goods. (Address: Preah Sisowath Quay & Streets 163, 240, 242)
  • Visit Wat Phnom, the namesake of the city, which houses four statues of Buddha and offers great views of the city. (Address: Sangkat Chey Chumneah, Khan Daun Penh)

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Mali Restaurant, known for its traditional Khmer dishes. (Address: #29 Street 178, Boeung Keng Kang 1)
  • Relax and unwind at the Riverside Park with a cup of coffee or a cold drink.
  • Explore the lively riverside area filled with street food stalls, shops, and art galleries.

Evening:

  • Dinner at The FCC Angkor, a colonial-style restaurant offering a mix of Cambodian, Asian, and Western cuisine. (Address: #36 Street 172)
  • Take a sunset cruise on the Mekong River to enjoy the city lights and soak in the atmosphere. (Boat tours are available at various locations along the riverfront)

Accommodation:

  • Raffles Hotel Le Royal: A historic, luxury hotel with an excellent location. (Address: 92 Rukan Phnom Penh, Sangkat Wat Phnom)
  • The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa: A modern resort offering a peaceful escape in the heart of the city. (Address: 185 Norodom Boulevard)

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available and affordable. Apps like Grab are also popular.
  • Bicycles can be rented from various locations around the city for a more immersive experience.
  • Remember to negotiate prices, especially with tuk-tuk drivers, and always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Things to Know:

  • Cambodia uses the riel (KHR) but US dollars are widely accepted. It’s a good idea to have some small bills for tipping.
  • The traffic can be chaotic, so cross roads carefully and follow local traffic rules.
  • Respectful attire is required when visiting temples and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.