Discover Phnom Penh Itinerary in 1 Day: Top Tour Highlights

Publisher: Rain Proun

Date: August 28, 2024

In Phnom Penh, the dynamic capital of Cambodia, ancient architecture coexists with contemporary architecture. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply passing through, this day trip itinerary will take you to all the best Phnom Penh has to offer.

First up: the Silver Pagoda and the Royal Palace

@ 8 a.m. Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace.

Start your day by paying a visit to the Royal Palace, a must-see for anybody interested in Cambodian history and culture. Be sure to get there early so you may avoid the throng and savor the tranquil splendor of the royal grounds.

Stunning Khmer architecture, verdant gardens, and elaborate pavilions adorn the Royal Palace, which serves as the official residence of the King of Cambodia.

Visitors should dress modestly, covering their knees and shoulders, as the Royal Palace is a place of worship.

Visit the Silver Pagoda

@ 9 a.m. Start your day with a visit to the Royal Palace.

Visit the Silver Pagoda and Wat Phnom. This pagoda, named for the 5,000 silver tiles covering its floor, houses some of the nation’s most prized possessions. Among these treasures is a life-sized gold Buddha encrusted with 9,584 diamonds. The elaborate murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Emerald Buddha are a must-see.

The Cambodian National Museum

10:10 in the morning: Explore Cambodia’s rich art and history.

The National Museum of Cambodia is just a short stroll away from the Royal Palace. At one particular institution, there are more Khmer sculptures, ceramics, and ethnographic artifacts than any other museum in the world. It does a fantastic job of spanning the centuries of Cambodian history, from the earliest civilizations to the Khmer Empire.

A monument honoring King Jayavarman VII of Cambodia is a must-see

11:30—Take a leisurely stroll along Sisowath Quay.

Sisowath Quay is Phnom Penh’s riverfront promenade; after seeing the museum, stroll along it. From this vantage point, take in the sights and sounds of the Tonle Sap River, as well as the waterfront activity. Take a pause and relax with a cool drink at one of the many cafés or stores along the way.

At 12:00 Pm : Lunch at local restaurant

For lunch, stop by a local eatery for some authentic Cambodian fare. Romdeng is a popular restaurant that serves modern takes on traditional Khmer cuisine. Beef Lok Lak—marinated beef served with a zesty lime-pepper sauce—and Fish Amok—a fragrant coconut curry—are signature dishes.

Take a tour of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) at 2:00 PM

Stop by the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21) in the afternoon to think about Cambodia’s recent past. The Khmer Rouge dictatorship transformed the building, once a high school, into a prison, housing this haunting memorial to the deceased. Viewing the museum’s exhibits on the crimes perpetrated during this bleak period in Cambodia’s history is a terrible experience. Take note: This section of the journey may evoke strong emotions, so be ready for that.

Conclusion

In a tiny region, Phnom Penh boasts a wealth of history, culture, and contemporary allure, making even a day trip there well worth your time. You can explore the Royal Palace, the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and the lively riverbank ambiance in short order, all of which offer profound insights into Cambodia’s history. Any Southeast Asian itinerary would be incomplete without spending at least one day in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. This city offers a significant and unforgettable peek into the heart of the country.

FQA

Does a day in Phnom Penh justify the expense?

Depending on your activities and dining choices, a one-day visit to Phnom Penh can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 per person. This budget includes admission fees to prominent attractions like the Royal Palace and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, as well as a local lunch, a sunset river cruise, and transportation within the city via tuk-tuk or rental taxi. It can cost $150 or more if you want to splurge on things like a private guided tour or a meal at a fancy restaurant.

Are tour guides worth the money?

If you want to learn more about the fascinating history and culture of Phnom Penh, hiring a private guide Cambodia is a must. A trained guide’s insightful commentary can greatly enhance sites like the Royal Palace and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, tailoring your visit to your specific interests and needs. They can help you make the most of your stay in the Cambodian capital by guiding you around, suggesting authentic local hangouts, and customizing the itinerary to suit your preferences.