Half-Day Small-Group Guided Tour of Phnom Penh
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
On this half-day tour, you will explore the Cambodian Royal Palace complex and Toul Sleng Museum. Your English-speaking guide will explain to you the history and relevance of the different artifacts you will see on this small group-tour. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Available options
PM Tour
2pm departure<br/>Pickup included
AM Tour
8am departure<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Joining tour
Land transfer in air conditioned vehicle
English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
On this half-day tour, you will explore the stunning Royal Palace complex, home to the Cambodian royal family and a symbol of the nation.
You will begin your journey by venturing into the beautiful royal gardens, landscaped with tropical plants and studded with gleaming spires. You will then proceed to the Throne Hall where the royal receptions are held and the Cambodian kings' coronations takes place. You will also have the chance to observe the Napoleon III Pavilion, a gift from the French emperor in the 19th century.
2
Stop 2
You'll continue forward to the Silver Pagoda, named after the 5000 silver tiles covering the floor. Inside you will discover some of the country's most cherished treasures, including a life-sized gold Buddha studded with 9584 diamonds and a delicate emerald Buddha made of baccarat crystal.
3
Stop 3
After leaving the Royal Palace, you will head to Toul Sleng Museum, home of some stark and moving reminders of Cambodia’s recent tragic past. Your expert guide will explain the historical, political and social context of the bleak period of Khmer history which followed the fall of Phnom Penh in April 1975.
Lastly, you will pay a visit to Street 240 and the Russian Market before heading back to your hotel in Phnom Penh.
4
Lastly, you will pay a visit to Street 240 and the Russian Market before heading back to your hotel in Phnom Penh.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Accommodation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
A maximum of 15 people per booking
Important notes
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Not wheelchair accessible
• A maximum of 15 people per booking
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
