Phnom Penh, Cambodia-4-day-itinerary

Phnom Penh, Cambodia 4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the City’s Dark History

  • Morning: Start at the Royal Palace (open from 8am-11am and 2pm-5pm), a stunning example of Khmer architecture. Be sure to dress modestly.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (open from 7am-5:30pm) to learn about the country’s tumultuous past. This former prison is a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Khmer Rouge regime.
  • Evening: Head to Street 51 for a lively night market with food, drinks, and shopping.

Places to Eat

  • Friends the Restaurant: Enjoy delicious Khmer cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. Try their famous fish amok!
  • The Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC): This iconic restaurant offers stunning views of the city and serves up classic pub fare.

Where to Stay

  • Raffles Hotel Le Royal: Experience luxurious comfort in this beautifully restored colonial-era hotel.
  • Mad Monkey Hostel: A lively, social hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for budget travelers.

Day 2: Discover Phnom Penh’s Cultural Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Cambodia (open from 8am-5pm) to explore the country’s rich cultural history.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Wat Phnom temple complex, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Khmer dance performances at the Cambodian Living Arts theater.

Transportation

  • Tuk-tuks: These colorful vehicles are a fun way to get around the city. Haggle the price before you start your journey!
  • Motorbike taxis: A quick and affordable option for shorter trips.

Day 3: Day Trip to the Killing Fields

  • Morning: Take a day trip to the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, also known as the Killing Fields (open from 7am-5pm). This somber site is a must-visit to understand Cambodia’s history.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Killing Fields Memorial.

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering temples or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Bargain at markets: Expect to haggle prices at local markets and from street vendors.

Day 4: Shop ’til You Drop!

  • Morning: Visit the bustling Central Market, also known as Psar Thmei, for a wide range of goods, including souvenirs, clothes, and fresh produce.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy boutiques and cafes along Street 240.

Tips

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid heat exhaustion.
  • Be prepared for scams: Be cautious when interacting with tuk-tuk drivers or street vendors.

Additional Tips:

  • Learn some basic Khmer phrases, such as “hello” (សួសសេត្រាយ, soosdey), “thank you” (អរគុណ, akun), and “excuse me” (ម៉្នជំហូលិយ, moong koon).
  • Download ride-hailing apps like Grab or PassApp for convenient transportation.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Enjoy your time in Phnom Penh!