Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Cambodia's fast-changing capital — the Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng history, Mekong Riverfront, and the gateway to Siem Reap. Direct flights from Bangkok and Singapore into PNH.
Phnom Penh Highlights
Royal Palace
Silver Pagoda + Throne Hall — the official residence of the King, open daily except during royal functions
Tuol Sleng (S-21)
Khmer Rouge prison 1975-79 — the most sobering and essential museum in Southeast Asia
National Museum
Khmer sculpture collection — Angkor-era stone statues, bronze works, the finest collection outside Siem Reap
Central Market
Art Deco yellow dome (1937) — gold jewellery, watches, silk, street food. Psar Thmei (New Market).
Riverfront (Sisowath Quay)
The Mekong and Tonle Sap meeting point — restaurants, bars, sunset views, cafes facing the water
Killing Fields (Choeung Ek)
15 km south — memorial stupa, excavated mass graves. Mandatory for understanding Cambodia's recent history.
Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Bus (6h)
USD 6-12 — Giant Ibis and Mekong Express are the best operators. Comfortable, door-to-door, Wi-Fi.
Flight (30 min)
USD 40-90 — Cambodia Angkor Air daily. Saves a day of travel; only worth it for tight itineraries.
Shared Taxi (5h)
USD 10-15 — shared car, departs when full from Central Bus Station. Faster than bus but less comfortable.
Phnom Penh FAQ
Which airport serves Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is served by Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), approximately 10 km west of the city centre — 20-30 minutes by taxi (USD 10-15) or tuk-tuk (USD 6-8). Direct flights from Bangkok (BKK/DMK), Singapore (SIN), Kuala Lumpur (KUL), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), and several Chinese cities.
What is Phnom Penh known for?
Phnom Penh is the capital of Cambodia — a riverside city at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers. It is known for the Royal Palace, the National Museum of Cambodia, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 prison), the Central Market (Psar Thmei), and the Riverfront promenade (Sisowath Quay). The city has transformed rapidly from a backpacker stopover to a sophisticated urban destination.
Should I visit Phnom Penh before or after Siem Reap?
Both are worth 2 nights each. Most visitors fly into Phnom Penh and take the 6-hour bus to Siem Reap (USD 6-12, Mekong Express or Giant Ibis) before flying out. Alternatively, fly PNH-REP for USD 40-80 (30 min). Phnom Penh is more urban, gritty, and historic; Siem Reap is quieter and temple-focused. Phnom Penh's history is more confronting — the Khmer Rouge sites require emotional preparation.
Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists?
Yes — Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists in tourist areas. The main concern is bag-snatching by motorbike (keep bags on the inside, not shoulder-facing the road). The Riverfront, BKK1, and Daun Penh districts are busy and safe at night. Avoid flashing expensive equipment in less-frequented areas. Tuk-tuk apps (Grab, PassApp) are safer than flagging down random drivers.
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