Phnom Penh Cambodia 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historical Landmarks

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Khmer breakfast at Pheap’s Kitchen or Bakery de l’Ile, both located in the Riverside area.
  • Transportation: Tuk-tuks are the common mode of transportation in Phnom Penh. You can negotiate the price for your day’s travel with a tuk-tuk driver.
  • Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21): Learn about Cambodia’s tragic history during the Khmer Rouge regime. It serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities that occurred in the late 1970s.
  • Choeung Ek - Killing Fields: After Tuol Sleng, head to Choeung Ek, one of the largest sites where victims were executed and buried during the Khmer Rouge era.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Have lunch at Friends Restaurant in Phnom Penh. It’s a social enterprise that provides job training for former street children.
  • Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda: Visit these iconic landmarks, where the royal family resides (partially) and houses some of the world’s most precious Buddhist artifacts.
  • National Museum: Explore the National Museum to learn more about Khmer art and culture.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Enjoy a riverside dinner at The River House Lounge & Restaurant, offering a mix of Western and Khmer cuisine with a view of Phnom Penh’s vibrant nightlife.
  • Night: Take a leisurely walk along the riverside or explore Phnom Penh’s bustling night markets such as Central Market (Phsar Thmei) or Night Market (Phsar Reatrey).

Day 2: Discovering Modern Phnom Penh and Relaxation

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at a local café, such as The Obscura Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and desserts.
  • Wat Phnom: Visit this iconic hilltop temple, the namesake of Phnom Penh city.
  • Independence Monument: Admire this significant national monument, built to celebrate Cambodia’s independence from French rule in 1953.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Have lunch at Maliya Thai Restaurant or Tres Bon Kitchen, offering delicious Thai and Western food options.
  • Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay): Take a quick boat ride to this small island, known for its white sand beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the island.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Return to Phnom Penh and have dinner at FCC Phnom Penh or Meta House, both offering a blend of Cambodian and international cuisine in a charming setting.
  • Night: Wrap up your evening by exploring the bustling nightlife scene, visiting bars like Eclipse Rooftop Bar or Alley Cat Phnom Penh.

Things to Know:

  • Cambodia uses the US Dollar as its primary currency.
  • Bargaining is common in markets and tuk-tuk rides.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Tipping is appreciated but not always expected.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, particularly in crowded areas.