Nestled around the Royal Palace and Preah Morakot Pagoda, Phnom Penh, the Cambodian capital, is a truly picturesque and vibrant city that has endured a tumultuous past. In 1975, the Khmer Rouge took control of Cambodia, forcing the entire population to flee to the countryside. The city remained eerily abandoned until 1979, when Vietnamese forces toppled the Khmer Rouge regime, leading to its gradual repopulation. Despite being located 180 miles from the sea, Phnom Penh is a major port in the Mekong River valley.
This guide will highlight some of the best places to visit in Phnom Penh, providing an overview of their significance and the enjoyable things to do in Phnom Penh.
Top Places to Visit in Phnom Penh
- Royal Palace
- Aeon Mall
- Night Market of Phnom Penh
- Russian Market
- The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk
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Royal Palace
The Royal Palace Phnom Penh, one of the best Phnom Penh sightseeing places, was constructed in 1866. It showcases a harmonious blend of Khmer and European architectural styles. This enchanting palace is in a vantage position and sprawls over 174,870 square metres. Open year-round, visitors flock to the palace, particularly in December and January when the weather is pleasant with minimal rainfall.
Things to Do at the Royal Palace
- Experience the grandeur of Cambodia's Royal Palace
- Visit the iconic residence of the King, adorned with precious monuments and a magnificent silver pagoda
- Explore the throne hall and other buildings open to the public, depending on the season
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Aeon Mall
Phnom Penh is home to two Aeon Malls, with the first opening in 2016 and the larger second one in 2018, located in Sen Sok District. These malls are some of the best places to see in Phnom Penh. The malls are funded by Japanese investors and have become the epitome of shopping in the city. Aeon offers a world-class experience with major brands, comfortable air-conditioned spaces, and impressive designs. The Aeon Malls provide an escape from the city's heat and dust.
Things to Do at Aeon Mall
- Indulge in exquisite dining at diverse restaurants and food chains, and unwind at cafes
- Experience the thrill of skating at the mall's rink and catch the latest movies at the state-of-the-art Major Cineplex, complete with a VIP screen
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Night Market of Phnom Penh
The night market, one of the most incredible tourist places in Phnom Penh, is also known as Psar Reatrey. It is a charming riverfront open-air market. Situated near Wat Phnom in the heart of the city, this market offers a delightful experience. It is located along Sisowath Quay, which runs parallel to the scenic Tonle Sap River. Entry to the market is free, which is open on weekends from 5 pm to 11 pm.
Things to Do at Night Market of Phnom Penh
- Indulge in delicious street food and refreshing local beer along the riverfront
- Discover affordable clothing, unique souvenirs, and local jewellery while immersing yourself in the Cambodian way of life
- Visit the market for fake designer products, including watches imitating brands such as Lacoste, Gucci, and Chanel
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Russian Market
The Russian Market in Phnom Penh is one of the best places to visit as a tourist in Phnom Penh. It acquired its name from its association with Russian and Soviet residents during socialist times. Following Pol Pot's regime, the People's Republic of Kampuchea (Cambodia) was considered a progressive socialist nation firmly aligned with the Soviet Union. And over time, this colloquial reference to the market as the "Russian market" became established.
Things to Do at the Russian Market
- Browse through stalls selling a diverse range of items, from wooden handicrafts and antiquities to fruits, veggies, and jewellery
- Check out the most renowned Khmer iced coffee and grilled bananas
- Take advantage of spotting knock-off products, sometimes even Cold War-era products
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The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk
The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk is one of the most incredible places to visit in Phnom Penh. It is a memorial dedicated to the esteemed Cambodian King of the 1940s. Its unique placement at the centre of the Independence Monument is significant. The statue serves as a testament to Norodom Sihanouk’s leadership and the momentous events that shaped Cambodia's history and the country it is today.
Things to Do at The Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk
- Admire the Statue of King Father Norodom Sihanouk, which is a significant monument honouring the former King's role in liberating Cambodia from French colonisation
- Visit the place on public holidays and weekends, when the structure is illuminated by brilliant lighting, which is a sight to behold