Private Half-Day Tour of Phnom Penh's Traditional Markets
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visiting local markets allows you to be in contact with Cambodian people, taste local food and discover the local handicraft. They are places steeped in history where you will immerse yourself in an atmosphere specific to each market. It is the ideal place to buy a souvenir or that unique gift and remember it is expected that you will haggle over the prices!
Available options
1 - 14 Adults Car
1- 14 adult travelers rate for car option<br/>Pickup included
1-3 Adults Tuk Tuk
1 - 3 adult travelers rate for tuk tuk option<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Local English Speaking Guide
Cold Bottled Water
Hotel pickup and drop off
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will discover the Central Markets, referred to as Phsah Thmei meaning new market this art deco style building is one of the iconic buildings of Phnom Penh. Again here you will find a shopper’s paradise and you can haggle away with the locals for whatever special gift or memento you desire.
2
Stop 2
You will also enjoy a 15 minutes drive through the bustling tourist area of Phnom Penh to the Russian Market named during the 1980s when the majority of tourists to Cambodia were Russian. This warren of stalls is a treasure trove of arts, crafts, food, clothing and nearly anything else you are looking for. You will enjoy a morning tea of a local delicacy from one of the many food stalls to complete the experience.
In contrast to the bustle of the market, you will visit the temple Toul Tum Poung next to the market. It has miraculously avoided to the destruction during the Khmer Rouge period. It is a fine example of a local temple with many beautiful wall paintings of the 1960s.
3
From here it is onto what is known as the Old Markets or Phar Chars for a look at a more traditional local market where you will see locals busily bartering with the stall holders for their daily food, clothing and whatever else they need in their daily lives.
What's not included
Gratuities
Offerings
Donations
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
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Tripadvisor
4.6
5 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
1
2★
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1★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 1 or more paying adults
Children must be accompanied by an adult
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
