Phnom Penh city tour full day (Private tour)

Phnom Penh , Cambodia

Phnom Penh city tour full day (Private tour)

Active

8h - 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

This classic city tour was designed for First-time Traveler to Phnom Penh city, the tour will take you to visit the National Museum (exhibits world’s important collection of ancient Khmer archeological, religious, and artistic from the 4th to the 13th centuries), Independence Monument, Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk, Wat Phnom Hill, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (The museum of Genocidal Crimes, it was used by the Khmer Rouge as a detention and torture center in the late 1970), Central Market, take a sunset cruise along the Mekong River (depends on the weather), is the best way to see the whole view of this rising star city of Southeast-Asia and it was called “Paris in the east” during 1960-1970th.

Available options

Phnom Penh city tour

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

03 Bottled water and wet tissues

Air-conditioned private car

Private English speaking guide (licensed guide)

Sunset cruise fee (shared boat)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Exhibits world’s important collection of ancient Khmer archeological, religious, and artistic from the 4th to the 13th centuries.

Stop 2

Independence Monument was inaugurated on 9th November 1962 to celebrate Cambodia’s independence from French rule (1863-1952).

Is a statue of the former King Norodom Sihanouk, the statue is dedicated to King Sihanouk's accomplishment on liberating the country on November 9,1953 from French Protectorate in Cambodia.

Stop 4

Wat Phnom is located on a hill 27 meters high in the center of Phnom Penh. The current temple was last rebuilt in 1926 and the large stupa contains the remains of King Ponhea Yat who moved the capital from Angkor to Phnom Penh in 1422.

Stop 5

The museum of Genocidal Crimes, it was used by the Khmer Rouge as a detention and torture center in the late 1970.

Take a sunset cruise along the Mekong River (depends on the weather), is the best way to see the whole view of this rising star city of Southeast-Asia and it was called “Paris in the east” during 1960-1970th.

Stop 7

Also known as Phsar Thmey market, centric a unique colonial style building constructed in 1937, is one of the historical and famous construction in Phnom Penh city, a big variety of local products & souvenirs are all sold here

What's not included

Meals

Travel insurance

Gratuities

National Museum

Tuol Sleng Museum

Wat Phnom Hill

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Our guide will deliver the entrance tickets to you at any site that require entrance ticket during tour.

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