# Phnom Penh Travel Guide: Getting There, Visa, and Top Attractions
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital city, sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers. The city blends French colonial architecture, ancient Khmer heritage, and modern development into one of Southeast Asia’s most compelling destinations.
Getting to Phnom Penh
By Air
Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) receives flights from major Asian hubs:
- Direct flights: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Guangzhou
- Budget airlines: AirAsia, VietJet, Jetstar Asia, Scoot
- Full-service: Cambodia Angkor Air, Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air
- Airport to city: 10km west of city center; taxi $12-15, tuk-tuk $7-10, Grab $5-8
Overland
- From Bangkok: Bus via Poipet border (10-12 hours, $25-35) or fly to Siem Reap then bus/fly to Phnom Penh
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Bus via Bavet border (6-7 hours, $12-18)
- From Siem Reap: Bus (6 hours, $8-15) or domestic flight (45 minutes, $60-100)
Visa for Phnom Penh
All foreign visitors need a visa to enter Cambodia. The eVisa is accepted at Phnom Penh International Airport:
- eVisa: Apply online at evisa.gov.kh for $42 USD – application guide
- Visa on Arrival: Available at the airport for $30-40 USD – guide
The eVisa immigration lane at Phnom Penh airport is significantly faster than the visa on arrival queue. For US, UK, and Indian citizens, the eVisa is the recommended option.
Don’t forget to complete the Cambodia e-Arrival card at least 72 hours before your flight.
Top Attractions in Phnom Penh
Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
The Royal Palace complex, built in 1866, is the official residence of the King of Cambodia. The Silver Pagoda within the grounds houses the Emerald Buddha and a life-size gold Mink Buddha decorated with 9,584 diamonds.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM daily
- Admission: $10 USD
- Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees (no shorts or sleeveless tops)
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)
A former high school converted into a detention and torture center during the Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979). Now a museum documenting one of the darkest chapters in Cambodia’s history.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Admission: $5 USD (audio guide $3 extra)
- Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Note: Graphic content; not recommended for young children
Choeung Ek Killing Fields
Located 15km south of Phnom Penh, this memorial marks the site where thousands of S-21 prisoners were executed. The audio tour provides powerful context.
- Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily
- Admission: $6 USD (including audio guide)
- Getting there: Tuk-tuk from city center ($10-15 round trip including waiting time)
- Time needed: 2-3 hours including travel
National Museum of Cambodia
The largest museum of Khmer art and culture, housing over 14,000 artifacts spanning the pre-Angkorian period to the present.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Admission: $10 USD
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
Central Market (Phsar Thmei)
An Art Deco landmark built in 1937, the Central Market is one of the largest domes in Asia. Browse jewelry, fabrics, electronics, and local food.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
- Admission: Free
- Tip: Bargain hard – start at 50% of the asking price
Sisowath Quay (Riverside)
The scenic promenade along the Tonle Sap riverfront is perfect for evening walks, with restaurants, bars, and street food vendors.
- Best time: Sunset (5:30-6:30 PM)
- Highlights: Night market on weekends, Independence Monument nearby
- Food: Fresh seafood, Khmer BBQ, international restaurants
Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
- Riverside/BKK1: Best for first-time visitors. Central location, walkable, many restaurants and bars. ($15-60/night)
- Russian Market area: Hip neighborhood with cafes, boutiques, and local markets. ($10-40/night)
- Daun Penh: Close to Royal Palace and National Museum. Mix of budget and mid-range. ($8-50/night)
- Chamkarmon: Modern area with shopping malls and international restaurants. ($20-80/night)
Where to Eat
- Street food: $1-3 per meal – noodle soups, fried rice, lok lak (stir-fried beef)
- Local restaurants: $3-8 per meal – Khmer curry, amok fish, fresh spring rolls
- International dining: $8-25 per meal – French, Italian, Japanese, Indian cuisines
- Rooftop bars: $5-15 per drink – great sunset views over the city
Getting Around Phnom Penh
- Grab app: The most convenient and safe option. Cars and tuk-tuks available. $1-5 for most trips.
- Tuk-tuks: Negotiate before riding. $1-3 for short trips, $5-10 for longer ones.
- Walking: The Riverside/BKK1 area is walkable. Use caution crossing streets.
- Motorbike taxis: $0.50-2 for quick solo trips. Use Grab for safety.
Safety Tips for Phnom Penh
- Bag snatching: Keep bags on the side away from the street; avoid using phones while walking
- Tuk-tuk safety: Use Grab instead of hailing random tuk-tuks at night
- Scams: Beware of “helpful” strangers offering gambling or gem deals
- Drugs: Cambodia has strict drug laws; possession can result in long prison sentences
- Nightlife: Stick to well-lit areas; watch your drinks
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Phnom Penh?
2-3 days is ideal to see the main attractions (Royal Palace, Tuol Sleng, Killing Fields, National Museum). Add 1-2 extra days for markets, cooking classes, or day trips to nearby islands.
Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists?
Phnom Penh is generally safe. Main concerns are petty theft (bag snatching, pickpocketing) and scams in tourist areas. Exercise normal precautions and use registered transportation.
Do I need a visa to visit Phnom Penh?
Yes, all foreign visitors need a visa. The eVisa is accepted at Phnom Penh International Airport. Apply online at evisa.gov.kh for $42 USD.
What’s the best time to visit Phnom Penh?
November to February offers the best weather (dry, 25-30°C). March-April is hot (35°C+). May-October has afternoon rain showers but fewer crowds.
Can I drink tap water in Phnom Penh?
No, tap water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available for $0.25-0.50. Ice in restaurants is generally made from purified water.
Is Phnom Penh expensive?
Phnom Penh is very affordable. Budget travelers can enjoy the city for $30-50/day including accommodation, food, transport, and attractions.
Practical Tips from Our Experience
- Arrive with the eVisa: Use the eVisa for faster immigration at Phnom Penh airport
- Complete the e-Arrival card: Submit the e-Arrival card before your flight
- Download Grab: Essential for safe, affordable transportation around the city
- Carry small USD bills: Street food, tuk-tuks, and markets require cash
- Visit Killing Fields early: Arrive when it opens (7:30 AM) to avoid crowds and heat
- Respect the culture: Remove shoes when entering temples; don’t touch anyone’s head; dress modestly at religious sites
Official Sources
The evisacambodia.info editorial team provides practical travel information for Phnom Penh visitors. Attraction details and prices are verified against official sources and recent traveler reports. Last updated: July 2026.
