Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Phnom Penh Full Day Private Tour

Active

9h - 10h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the vibrant history and culture of Phnom Penh on this full-day private tour. Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, this historic trading hub boasts a rich blend of Khmer and French colonial heritage. Begin your journey with a visit to the Royal Palace, the official residence of Cambodia's King, and explore the Independence Monument and Wat Ounalom, an ancient monastery that offers insight into Cambodia's spiritual traditions. Stroll through the art deco Central Market in the city center and visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a somber reminder of Cambodia's past. Enjoy a personalized experience with your private group, traveling in air-conditioned comfort and benefiting from included admission tickets for all attractions.

Available options

Phnom Penh Full Day Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private air-conditioned vehicle.

English-speaking licensed tour guide.

All admission entrance tickets.

Hotel pickup and drop-off.

Cool drinking water during the tour.

Detailed itinerary

Explore Phnom Penh's rich history as a hub for the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. Admire the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers.

Stop 2

Visit Cambodia’s iconic Royal Palace, built in 1886. Discover its beautiful architecture and its role as the King’s residence.

Stop 3

Located next to the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda features exquisite silver tiles and the Emerald Buddha. It offers a serene escape from Phnom Penh’s bustling streets.

Learn about Cambodia's tragic past at this former school turned prison during the Khmer Rouge era.

Stop 5

Visit this somber memorial site where over one million people were executed by the Khmer Rouge. Explore the Buddhist stupa filled with victims’ remains.

Stop 6

Phnom Penh’s namesake hilltop temple, built in 1373, offers serene views and fascinating history.

A bronze memorial dedicated to Cambodia's beloved King Father, located in Independence Square.

Built in 1958, this lotus-shaped stupa commemorates Cambodia’s independence from France in 1953.

Stop 9

A revered Buddhist monastery established in 1422, serving as the headquarters for Cambodian Buddhism. A vibrant art deco market offering a wide variety of goods. A landmark built in 1937, showcasing French colonial architecture.

What's not included

Tipping for guide and driver.

Personal expenses and activities not mentioned.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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