Phnom Penh Travel Guide

This guide is all you need to know about practical information for Phnom Penh to fully enjoy all the wonders that the former “pearl of Asia” has to offer travelers. The vibrant and lively Cambodian capital is one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Don’t miss anything in Phnom Penh and follow our advice!

Phnom Penh Weather

The weather given for Phnom Penh is valid for all of Cambodia, except for the Mondolkiri region which benefits from a more temperate climate due to its altitude. There are three seasons in Cambodia.

Getting around Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia does not yet have a metro, tram or reliable bus network. To get around, you will find taxis but we advise you to do more local color by using the rickshaw, tuk-tuk or motorbike taxi. Fix the price in advance with the driver. The prices are quite reasonable and will depend on your negotiation. It is easy to get around on foot, the streets of Phnom Penh have mostly wide sidewalks to walk on. The city center, around the Russian Market and the Sisowath Quay, is particularly suitable for walking.

Money

The American dollar is widely accepted as currency. Small change is often given in riel, the national currency. Keep it for tips and other small daily purchases. You will find ATMs everywhere in town that only issue dollars. The exchange offices are concentrated on the Sisowath Quay, otherwise, you can change in the jewelry stores on the markets.

Health

As in all of Cambodia, we advise you not to drink tap water. On the other hand, there is no problem with ice cubes which are manufactured in reliable factories. You will find pharmacies almost everywhere in the city. No prescription is needed to buy medicines. Be careful, fake medicines are not uncommon.

In case of health problems, we advise you to go to Calmette Hospital, located on Monivong Boulevard. It is considered the best health center in Cambodia. It is renowned for its various services; emergencies, intensive care, gynecology, maternity, general medicine, radiology…

Contacts:

Pr. CHOY Meng, medical correspondent, responsible for communication with foreigners, head of intensive care (English-speaking)
Tel: 012.88.67.81

Doctor on call for emergencies
Tel: 011.42.69.48

Permanent doctor on call
Tel: 011.414.054

Ambulances: 119
Mr. CAR Samn, head of the ambulance service, tel: 012 97 41 19

If not available Mr. MAO Srun, tel 077 422 765

Security

Phnom Penh is a relatively safe city, however, remain vigilant as in any large city and take the usual precautions that are necessary, such as not displaying money and jewelry in a way that is too ostentatious, so you won’t tempt the little thugs.

Consular service

The Embassy of the United States of America in Phnom Penh welcomes you from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1 Christopher Howes - Phnom Penh.

Tel: (855) 023 728 000

Internet access and mobile phone

For only $5, you can get a sim card in Phnom Penh with a local phone number and internet access from your mobile. The recommended providers are Cellcard and Smart. Both have special 30-day tourist packages.

Shopping in Phnom Penh

The capital of Cambodia is a very interesting destination for shopping enthusiasts. The city is indeed home to a beautiful collection of shops where you can buy fine crafts. Wood carving, furniture, decorative objects, weaving, basketwork, pottery, ceramics… there is no shortage of temptations. The city is full of shops where you can buy Khmer silk or cotton textiles. Streets 240 and 19 are home to a large number of these shops. Another must-see place to shop in Phnom Penh is the central market called Psar Thmei, which houses many everyday objects, jewelry and also a lot of clothes.

Tourist interests

Phnom Penh City is one of the most interesting capitals in Southeast Asia in terms of history, culture, architecture and local life with its streets bustling with activity. It’s a pleasant city where you never get bored.

Where to sleep?

Phnom Penh prides itself on housing a beautiful collection of luxury and charming hotels. We have selected the most beautiful establishments in the Cambodian capital to make your stay an unforgettable experience.

Where to eat?

Phnom Penh is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. It only took a decade for top-notch restaurants to spring up all over the city, where you can enjoy both traditional and divinely reinterpreted Khmer cuisine. International cuisine is not far behind, with some great addresses.

Where to go out?

The nights in Phnom Penh are among the most festive in Southeast Asia. The capital of Cambodia promises to entertain you with the many lively bars and entertainment venues that open once the sun goes down. There's no better way to start the evening than having a drink on Sisowath Quay to observe the lively local life or to gain height for a magnificent view by going to one of the city's many sky bars. The streets perpendicular to Sisowath Quay are full of all kinds of bars, classic or with hostesses. You can then extend the evening in one of the many nightclubs such as Pontoon or Heart of The Darkness.

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