Must-Visit Attractions When Traveling to Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, is not only the country’s political and economic center but also an attractive tourist destination with its ancient temples, historical museums, and unique cultural landmarks. If you’re planning a trip to the “Land of Temples,” Phnom Penh is definitely a place you cannot miss.

1. Where is Phnom Penh?

Phnom Penh is located in the heart of Cambodia and serves as an important transportation hub for the country. From Vietnam today, you can easily travel to Phnom Penh by air, road, or waterway.

By Airplane: Traveling to Phnom Penh by air is the fastest and most convenient way. Many airlines currently operate direct flights to Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH), with a flight time of only about one hour. To fly with Vietjet at fares starting from only 240,000 VND, you can check for the latest promotions here.
By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City, you can travel to Phnom Penh by bus in about six hours. Ticket prices typically range from 200,000 – 500,000 VND depending on the service quality.
By Waterway: If you want to enjoy a unique journey, you can choose to travel by boat along the Mekong River. Specifically, during the high-water season, visitors from Ho Chi Minh City can travel to Chau Doc (An Giang), then take a boat across the border at Vinh Xuong to Cambodia. Ticket prices range from 500,000 – 1,000,000 VND.

Once you arrive in Phnom Penh, you can rent a bicycle, motorbike, the legendary tuk-tuk, or use a taxi/Grab depending on your personal needs.

When traveling in Phnom Penh, you will be fascinated by the city’s enchanting blend of the old and the modern.

2. When is the best time to visit Phnom Penh?

Located in a tropical monsoon climate zone, Phnom Penh has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season lasts from December to May of the following year. Within the dry season, there are two sub-seasons: the cool season (December to February) and the hot season (March to May).

The ideal time to visit Phnom Penh is when the weather is dry and cool. At this time, Cambodia often has warm sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities such as beach trips, visiting ancient temples, or exploring tropical forests.

Especially during the summer, when many traditional festivals take place, you can immerse yourself in vibrant celebrations such as Chol Chnam Thmay (Khmer New Year), the Bom Chaul Chnam Water Festival, or the Boat Racing Festival. These are wonderful opportunities to explore the unique culture of the Khmer people.

3. Tourist Attractions in Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh has many fascinating places to visit, each carrying the distinctive cultural traditions of Cambodia. Below are some highlights to help you plan your trip:

3.1 The Royal Palace of Cambodia

The Royal Palace is one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks and is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. Located along the riverside, the Royal Palace is a masterpiece of architecture, blending traditional Khmer style with French influences. It houses many national treasures and is considered one of Phnom Penh’s most recognized symbols.

Currently, the Royal Palace is open to visitors, featuring the Napoleon III Pavilion — a building gifted to King Norodom by Napoleon III of France — and the Throne Hall, with its 59-meter-high tower inspired by the Bayon temple at Angkor, which serves as the venue for important ceremonies such as coronations, the presentation of diplomatic credentials, and traditional Cambodian cultural performances.

Here, visitors can admire the unique architecture and gaze at sacred Buddha statues.

Ticket price for foreigners: $6 (~150,000 VND)
Opening hours: 8:00 – 11:00; 14:00 – 17:00

3.2 National Museum of Cambodia

The museum is home to valuable artistic and archaeological artifacts, especially sculptures from the Angkor period. Visitors to this remarkable Phnom Penh attraction will have the chance to explore Buddhist statues, bronze objects, ceramics, and ancient Khmer tools.

Some notable sculptures include the eight-armed Vishnu from the 6th century (Phnom Da), the Harihara statue (Prasat Andet, Kampong Thom Province), and the exquisite statue of Jayavarman VII (Angkor Thom, 1181–1219). In addition, the museum displays ceramic and bronze items from the pre-Angkor periods such as Funan and Chenla (4th–9th centuries), the Indravarman period (9th–10th centuries), the glorious Angkor era (10th–14th centuries), as well as modern works.

Ticket price for foreigners: $10 (~250,000 VND)
Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00

The museum reflects the radiant history and civilization of the Khmer people.

3.3 Wat Phnom Pagoda

It is no coincidence that Wat Phnom is a famous landmark in Phnom Penh. This sacred ancient temple was first built in 1372 to house four Buddha statues. Notably, it also preserves the remains of King Boliwat and the ashes of King Ponhea Yat.

Thanks to its location at 27 meters high on the city’s only hill, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Phnom Penh. Today, many people come here to pray for luck, success in exams, or prosperity in business. When their wishes come true, they return to offer thanks, often with a jasmine garland or a bunch of bananas.

At this Phnom Penh destination, visitors always take time to pray.

Ticket price: $1 (~25,000 VND)
Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00

3.4 Choeung Ek Killing Fields

Besides temples, visitors also often come to the Choeung Ek Killing Fields — a painful historical site of Cambodia. This is a massive mass grave where thousands of innocent people were massacred under the Khmer Rouge regime during the genocide. Today, the area is not only a tourist site but also a memorial to honor the victims and a place to learn more about one of the darkest chapters in human history.

Ticket price for foreigners: $3 (~75,000 VND)
Radio Tour (Vietnamese): $3
Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00

Choeung Ek Killing Fields is a historically significant site in Cambodia.

3.5 Independence Monument

The Independence Monument in Phnom Penh is an important national symbol of Cambodia, carrying rich historical and cultural significance. It is located at the intersection of the city’s two largest roads, Sihanouk and Norodom.

The Independence Monument was built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence.

The monument is designed in the form of a stupa, modeled after the famous architecture of Angkor Wat. Its shape symbolizes the sophistication and solemnity of Khmer culture. Surrounding the monument is a large square with a fountain, creating a relaxing and ideal space for strolling.

3.6 Phsar Thmei Market

Phsar Thmei Market, an Art Deco architectural gem in the heart of Phnom Penh, is always a must-visit destination for travelers. With its unique design resembling a Tower of Babel, the market is not only a bustling shopping hub but also a perfect place for capturing stunning “Instagram-worthy” photos. Every corner of the market hides something interesting, from stalls selling exquisite handicrafts to a vibrant food court. In particular, the fresh produce section, with its colorful array of fruits and vegetables, is sure to impress any food enthusiast.

At Phsar Thmei Market, visitors can enjoy a fun shopping experience and discover Cambodia’s unique charm.

Want to travel without worrying about expenses? The above are ideal Phnom Penh attractions for you. With reasonable costs, you can freely explore Phnom Penh’s famous tourist spots and enjoy local cuisine. At the same time, don’t forget to keep an eye on Vietjet’s special 0 VND domestic and international ticket promotions available daily from 12:00 to 14:00 to get the best deals. See more details here.

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