Phnom Penh, Cambodia 3 Day Itinerary
Phnom Penh, Cambodia 3-Day Itinerary (Markdown format)
Day 1: Discovering the Past
Morning: Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
- Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s iconic buildings.
- Nearby, explore the beautiful Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo Morakot, adorned with more than 5,000 silver tiles on its floors.
Afternoon: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum & Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
- Spend your afternoon learning about the dark chapter in Cambodia’s history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek. It’s a moving experience, so take your time and reflect.
Evening: Riverside Area & Night Market
- Head to the Riverside area for dinner at one of the many restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Recommendation: FCC Phnom Penh for a taste of Khmer and Western dishes.
- After dark, explore the vibrant Night Market in the heart of the city, where you can find souvenirs, street food, and local crafts.
Day 2: Exploring Culture & Modern Phnom Penh
Morning: National Museum & Central Market
- Visit the National Museum to learn more about Khmer art and history.
- Next, stop by the Central Market, a unique architectural structure offering various goods, from souvenirs to food items.
Afternoon: Independence Monument & Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market)
- Spend your afternoon visiting the Independence Monument, a national monument symbolizing Cambodia’s independence from French colonization.
- Head to Toul Tom Poung, also known as the Russian Market, for shopping, food, and exploring local artisans’ stalls.
Evening: Enjoy Phnom Penh Nightlife
- Experience Phnom Penh’s nightlife at Street 178 or Street 278. You can find numerous bars and clubs offering a mix of local and international music.
- For a more relaxed evening, visit the Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) Phnom Penh for drinks with a stunning view of the Tonle Sap River.
Day 3: Peace & Tranquility
Morning: Wat Phnom & Toul Sleng Genocide Museum (if not visited on Day 1)
- Start your final day by visiting Wat Phnom, the temple that gave the city its name.
- If you missed it on Day 1, visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in the morning.
Afternoon: Riverside Walk & Departure Preparation
- Spend your afternoon strolling along the Riverside promenade or relax at one of the riverside cafes, enjoying the scenic views and local atmosphere.
- Take some time to prepare for your departure, exchange any remaining currency, and say goodbye to this captivating city.
Things to Know:
- Tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) are a common mode of transportation in Phnom Penh, but negotiate fares before starting your journey.
- The traffic can be chaotic, so be cautious when crossing roads.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Remember to stay hydrated and use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
- Enjoy your time in Phnom Penh!