Phnom Penh Capital City Tour Shared Tour
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Phnom Penh in this immersive tour featuring the Royal Palace, National Museum, and other iconic sites. Discover the history behind the Royal Palace, the stunning displays of Khmer art at the National Museum, and the vibrant atmosphere of Central Market. Uncover the stories of Wat Phnom, the city's historical identity, and pay tribute at the Independence Monument. This tour offers insightful narratives, ensuring a deep understanding of Cambodia's past and present. Perfect for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
- Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the King of Cambodia
- Explore extensive collections of Khmer art at the National Museum
- Experience local life at Central Market, a hub for shopping and dining
- Learn the historical significance of Wat Phnom and the Independence Monument
Available options
Phnom Penh Capital City Tour Shared Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pick up and drop off
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
English speaking tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Royal Palace was built in 1866 and officially opened in 1870. Royal Palace also serves as the official royal residence of Cambodia's King since the past till now. Most of the buildings in the Royal Palace site’s visit was built in the Cambodian traditional architecture style, and those buildings also have different meanings which is representative of its own unique as well. Let’s find out what it is with us!
2
Stop 2
National Museum was officially inaugurated in 1920, and it’s located in Phnom Penh Capital City. National Museum is one of a largest exhibition center that display a lot of sculptures, arts, traditional stuffs, and the other old items in all eras in Cambodia history. All of those items were collected from all over the country to display in the National Museum for all visitors to learn more and to explore more about Cambodia’s culture and history even they are in the modern capital city, Phnom Penh.
3
Stop 3
Wat Phnom is representative Phnom Penh Capital City Identity. Phnom Penh Capital City was given name after an Old Lady who names Penh. In the past, Grandma Penh is a residential and a wealthy old lady who live in a village near the small hill, which is Wat Phnom nowadays, close to the bank of Chaktomuk River. The small hill which is in Cambodian Language means “Phnom” combines with the name of Grandma Penh, so it becomes to Phnom Penh. There’re more many stories follow after that, which till now make Wat Phnom has become to a historical site, an also a part of the Phnom Penh Capital City’s identity.
4
Stop 4
Central Market first opened in 1937. It was one of the old buildings that was built in French Colonial Period in Phnom Penh Capital City. This bright yellow building was designed by French architecture. Nowadays, it becomes to a popular local market for local people to shop any stuffs including foods, and it’s also a popular local market for foreigner’s tourists to visit while they are in Phnom Penh.
We, local people, are calling it, Phsar Thom Thmey.
5
Stop 5
Independence Monument was built by King Norodom Sihanouk to memorize about the time of Cambodian get independence from France Colonial in 1953. It stands on the busy center of Phnom Penh Capital City.
6
Next to the Independence Monument, there’s the statues of King Father Norodom Sihanouk. The King that gets Cambodia out of French Colonial and give Cambodian freedom since that time, 1953.
What's not included
Royal Palace
National Museum
Wat Phnom Historical Site
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia, is a city rich in history, culture, and bustling markets. Known for its French colonial architecture, the Royal Palace, and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, it offers a unique blend of the old and the new, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. It features beautiful Khmer architecture and is a must-visit for its historical significance and stunning design.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
10 USD
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
Also known as S-21, this museum is a former school turned into a prison and torture center by the Khmer Rouge. It serves as a stark reminder of Cambodia's dark past.
Historical
1-2 hours
5 USD
Central Market
Also known as Phsar Thmei, this market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and local food. The Art Deco building is an architectural gem.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary
Wat Phnom
This Buddhist temple is the namesake and heart of the city. It is believed to be the site where the first pagoda was built in Phnom Penh.
Religious
30 minutes
1 USD
National Museum of Cambodia
This museum houses a vast collection of Khmer artifacts, providing a deep dive into Cambodia's rich history and culture.
Museum
1-2 hours
10 USD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Amok
A creamy coconut curry with fish or chicken, steamed in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Can be made with fish or chicken, vegetarian options available.
Lok Lak
Stir-fried beef with onions and a tangy lime-pepper dipping sauce.
Main Dish
Typically made with beef, but can be made with other meats.
Nom Banh Chok
Rice noodles topped with a fish-based gravy and fresh herbs.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available with tofu.
Bai Sach Chrouk
Grilled pork with broken rice and pickled vegetables.
Breakfast
Contains pork.
Popular Activities
Boat Tours
Biking
Hiking
Spa Treatments
Riverfront Promenade
Coffee Shops
Temple Visits
Museum Tours
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
22°C - 32°C
72°F - 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Khmer
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cambodian Riel (KHR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with common sense
Phnom Penh is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours or services, as they may overcharge or take you to overpriced shops
- • Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices beforehand
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Phnom Penh International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Phnom Penh Railway Station
By bus
Central Market Bus Station, Siem Reap Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public buses are affordable but can be crowded and slow. Routes cover major areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PassApp, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Riverside
BKK1
Russian Market (Psar Tuol Tom Poung)
Day trips
Tonlé Sap Lake
150 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A large freshwater lake known for its floating villages and unique ecosystem.
Kampong Cham
120 km from Phnom Penh • Full day
A riverside town with a mix of French colonial architecture and traditional Khmer temples.
Koh Dach Island
15 km from Phnom Penh • Half day
A peaceful island known for its silk weaving and rural landscapes.
Festivals
Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey) • April 14-16
Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) • November (dates vary)
Pchum Ben • September/October (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Try local street food at the Central Market or Russian Market for an authentic experience
- Take a tuk-tuk tour of the city to see the major attractions in a short amount of time
- Visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum for a sobering but important historical perspective
- Explore the riverside area for great dining and nightlife options
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
