Phnom Penh Cambodia 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning

  • Arrive in Phnom Penh and check-in to your hotel or hostel. Some popular options include:
    • The Plantation Urban Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort with a pool and spa.
    • Mad Monkey Hostel: A social hostel with a rooftop bar and dorms.
  • Start your day at Central Market (Psar Thmei), a bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.

Afternoon

  • Visit the National Museum, which houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts and art.
  • Take a stroll along the Tonle Sap River, offering scenic views of the city.

Evening

  • Head to Street 60, a popular street filled with bars, restaurants, and live music.
  • Try some traditional Cambodian cuisine at Romdeng Restaurant, which serves dishes like fish amok and nom banh chok.
  • Take a tuk-tuk ride around the city to get a feel for the layout and atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive vendors.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or museums.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am, 4-6 pm) to minimize traffic congestion.

Transportation

  • Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Phnom Penh. Agree on a price before departing.
  • Rent a motorbike for around $5-10 per day to explore the city at your own pace.

Day 2: History and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Killing Fields (Choeung Ek), a somber reminder of Cambodia’s turbulent past. Guided tours are available.
  • Stop by the S21 Museum, a former high school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Be sure to dress modestly.
  • Visit the Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo), located within the palace grounds, which houses a stunning collection of Buddha statues.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Khmer dance performance at The National Dance Company.
  • Try some street food at Night Market, offering a variety of snacks and drinks.

Tips

  • Be respectful when visiting historical sites and temples. Remove your shoes and avoid loud noises.
  • Learn some basic Khmer phrases, such as “sawatdee” (hello) and “akun” (thank you).

Day 3: Island Getaway**

Morning

  • Take a ferry to Koh Dach (Silk Island), a peaceful retreat from the city.
  • Explore the island’s scenic countryside, temples, and traditional villages.

Afternoon

  • Visit a local silk farm to learn about the production process.
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the island’s many restaurants, serving fresh seafood and Khmer dishes.

Evening

  • Return to Phnom Penh and enjoy dinner at The Fish Market, offering a wide range of international cuisine.
  • Explore the city’s nightlife, with popular bars like The Drunken Dragon and Pit Stop Bar.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines when taking the ferry to Koh Dach.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or villages.

Day 4: Markets and Shopping**

Morning

  • Visit the Russian Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from souvenirs to clothing.
  • Explore the Phnom Penh Night Market, offering a variety of snacks, drinks, and shopping stalls.

Afternoon

  • Take a cooking class at The Cooking School, learning how to prepare traditional Khmer dishes.
  • Visit the Daughters of Cambodia Visitor Centre, supporting local women through crafts and education.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at K’nyay Restaurant, serving contemporary Khmer cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Take a sunset cruise along the Tonle Sap River, offering stunning views of the city.

Tips

  • Be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets. Agree on a price before making a purchase.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when taking a cooking class or visiting cultural centers.

Day 5: Departure**

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring a local market.
  • Visit the Phnom Penh International Airport for your departure flight.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines when departing from the airport.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets and airports.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Phnom Penh, Cambodia!