{"id":20177,"date":"2019-12-09T12:20:53","date_gmt":"2019-12-09T12:20:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/?p=20177"},"modified":"2022-12-29T09:02:22","modified_gmt":"2022-12-29T09:02:22","slug":"top-things-to-do-in-phnom-penh","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/cambodia\/top-things-to-do-in-phnom-penh\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Things to Do in Phnom Penh That You Shouldn’t Miss"},"content":{"rendered":"

Cambodia’s busy capital, Phnom Penh, is quite the assault on the senses. Motorbikes whiz past you every minute, markets exude pungent scents and both the Royal Palace and Mekong River glimmer in the heat. This all represents Phnom Penh though, what was once the ‘Pearl of Asia’ tarnished by war.<\/p>\n

Now the beguiling sights and sounds that you hear walking down the street symbolize a new city. A city that has risen from the ashes to claim its place amongst its neighboring capitals.<\/p>\n

Although not the prettiest of places, a visit here is a must to understand the history of what this country went to.<\/p>\n

Here are our top things that you can’t miss out on doing while in Phnom Penh.<\/p>\n

Things to Do in\u00a0Phnom Penh<\/h2>\n

Learn About the\u00a0History<\/h3>\n

You can experience the Cambodian culture just by walking through its streets and mixing with the locals, but if you want to really understand it, you have to learn about its history. The two main places to visit if you want to understand the city is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison) and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

Both an important part of Phnom Penh’s bloody history under Khmer Rouge, the prison stands as a monument to the thousands that were murdered and imprisoned, while the killing fields finally stand as peaceful grounds.<\/p>\n

Although just as haunting as the death camps in Germany, the experience is so powerful and moving that it is an experience you can’t miss. While the entire thing is slightly depressing, a visit to these museums is vital to understand the culture of the Cambodian people and seeing how they have remained resilient and strong.<\/p>\n

Although a bit depressing, we 100% recommend going on a historical tour<\/a> so you can really grasp the history of Phnom Penh.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Bag a Bargain at the Central Market<\/h2>\n

There’s something about markets in Asia. The hustle and bustle, the hundreds of colorful stalls and the fact they are like actual mazes! It’s no different in Phnom Penh.<\/p>\n

If you want to test out your haggling skills and bag yourself a bargain, head to the central market. You can find anything from handicrafts and local art to designer handbags and\u00a0furniture, it’s one of the most fun places to wander around!<\/p>\n

If you spend enough time here and you get hungry, head a few blocks northwest to the Night Market. Open from 5 pm, you can gorge on a range of cheap local\u00a0dishes.<\/p>\n

Eat Kampot Pepper Crab<\/h2>\n

Being quite the hip capital, Phnom Penh is full of alluring cafes, bustling bars, and a world-class food scene. Let’s just say you’ll never be far from a good meal! Even with all this, the one dish you absolutely have to try is the Kampot Pepper Crab.<\/p>\n

Originating from the small riverside town of Kampot, this seafood delicacy and its many variations have become somewhat of a national dish. I mean who wouldn’t enjoy whole fried or baked crab, smothered in a sweet and spicy peppercorn sauce? I’m salivating just thinking about it.<\/p>\n

Don’t forget the street food scene! It’s no different in Cambodia to the rest of Asia. You will find amazing dishes around Phnom Penh, with some of the best stalls around Tuol Tompoung (Russian Market) just south of the city center. Fancy a deep-fried cricket, fried tarantula, or chicken foot?<\/p>\n

Check out this evening food tour<\/strong><\/a> for the best experience around Phnom Penh!<\/p>\n

\"kep-crabs\"Get Your Adventure On<\/h2>\n

You guessed it, Phnom Penh is full of adventure just waiting to be had. Offering activities from kayaking and white water rafting, to trekking and rock-climbing, you can fill your days with sports and laughter!<\/p>\n

Our favorite though? Exploring the region by bike,\u00a0vespa or motorbike!<\/p>\n

There is nothing like whizzing through the city and discovering lesser-known country roads. You’ll often stumble upon some of the most amazing views this way. Happy exploring!<\/p>\n

Read:\u00a0What to Do in Cambodia: Things You Shouldn\u2019t Miss!<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Admire the Temples<\/h2>\n

While Cambodia’s other major city, Siem Reap<\/a><\/strong>, is better known for its many temples and ruins, Phnom Penh has some wats (temples) of its own that deserve some attention. Whether you like to marvel at the different architecture or learn about each long and interesting history, there is a temple for everyone here! Don’t know where to start? Check out our top 5 must-visits.<\/p>\n