Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market.

Top Attractions:

1. Royal Palace: Explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, home to the Cambodian royal family. Admire the beautiful architecture, intricate decorations, and ornate pagodas, including the Silver Pagoda with its floor made of silver tiles.
2. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21): Learn about Cambodia's tragic history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former Khmer Rouge prison where thousands of people were tortured and killed. View exhibits, photographs, and testimonies documenting the atrocities of the Khmer Rouge regime.
3. Choeung Ek Killing Fields: Pay your respects at the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, a memorial site where victims of the Khmer Rouge regime were executed and buried in mass graves. Visit the memorial stupa containing thousands of human skulls and bones.
4. Wat Phnom: Visit Wat Phnom, the tallest religious structure in Phnom Penh and the namesake of the city. Climb the stairs to the top of the hill to visit the temple and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
5. National Museum of Cambodia: Discover Cambodia's rich artistic and cultural heritage at the National Museum of Cambodia. Explore galleries filled with ancient Khmer artifacts, sculptures, ceramics, and religious treasures dating back to the Angkorian era.
6. Central Market (Phsar Thmei): Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Phnom Penh's Central Market, a bustling marketplace housed in an iconic Art Deco building. Browse through stalls selling everything from clothing and jewelry to souvenirs and fresh produce.

Top Things to Do:

1. Riverfront Promenade (Sisowath Quay): Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Riverfront Promenade, also known as Sisowath Quay. Enjoy views of the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, visit cafes and restaurants, and watch traditional performances at night.
2. Cambodian Living Arts Performances: Experience traditional Khmer music and dance performances by Cambodian Living Arts. Attend a show at the National Museum or other venues in Phnom Penh to witness classical Khmer dance and music performances.
3. Culinary Tours and Cooking Classes: Explore Cambodia's vibrant culinary scene with a food tour or cooking class in Phnom Penh. Sample traditional Khmer dishes at local markets and eateries, or learn to cook Cambodian cuisine with a hands-on cooking class.
4. Cyclo Tours: Discover Phnom Penh's landmarks and neighborhoods on a cyclo tour, a traditional mode of transport in Cambodia. Sit back and relax as your cyclo driver pedals you through the city streets, allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of Phnom Penh.
5. Shopping: Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Khmer goods at markets and boutiques in Phnom Penh. Visit the Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Pong) for clothing and textiles, or explore boutique shops along Street 240 for unique gifts and artwork.
6. Day Trip to Silk Island (Koh Dach): Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a day trip to Silk Island, located just a short ferry ride from Phnom Penh. Explore traditional silk weaving villages, visit pagodas, and relax on quiet riverfront beaches.