Phnom Penh

Destination

Overview

Come Quickly to Witness the Traces of the Past!

Phnom Penh was known as Chaktomuk during the Angkorian period. In the 15th century, as the Khmer Empire declined, Ponhea Yat Chao decided to establish his court here, making him the last emperor of the Khmer Empire and the first king of Cambodia. Yet until the 19th century, Phnom Penh remained a small town.

It was only in this period that the Royal Palace was built and the city truly became a capital, especially under French influence. The French built roads, a port, and many houses, including colonial-style villas. The early 20th century was Phnom Penh’s golden age, earning it the nickname “the Pearl of Asia.” In the 1960s, even Singapore’s authorities looked to Phnom Penh as inspiration for their development plans.

Sadly, the following decades were marked by turmoil. During the Vietnam War, thousands of refugees arrived, followed by the Cambodian Civil War, which gave way to the Khmer Rouge terror from 1975 to 1979. The city was emptied of its inhabitants for most of this dictatorship. It is estimated that 80% of Phnom Penh’s pre-Khmer Rouge population perished during this period.

Reconstruction began after the Vietnamese liberation in 1979, but real development only took off in the 1990s. Today, the city is constantly changing, with the old often being replaced by the new — as seen in the colonial public buildings increasingly demolished in favor of modern constructions.

Phnom Penh is therefore worth visiting to understand the country’s harsh recent history and to see the remaining colonial architecture — though these heritage buildings are becoming rarer with time.

Photo Gallery

Why Go There?

Recommended Activities

Visit the Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
A symbol of Cambodia’s monarchy, this complex showcases richly decorated traditional Khmer buildings. The Silver Pagoda, named after its floor covered with 5,000 silver tiles, houses a solid gold Buddha statue encrusted with diamonds.

Discover the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S21)
A former school turned prison under the Khmer Rouge. A poignant but essential site to understand the country’s tragic history.

Pay Tribute at the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
A memorial dedicated to the victims of Pol Pot’s regime. The well-designed audio guide makes it a highly recommended visit for adults.

Explore the National Museum of Cambodia
A fine collection of Khmer objects, including pre-Angkorian and Angkorian sculptures and artifacts. The red architecture is a beautiful example of Khmer style.

Wander Through Local Markets: Central Market & Russian Market

Central Market (Phsar Thmey): Art deco architecture, souvenirs, jewelry.
Russian Market (Phsar Toul Tom Poung): More artisanal and local vibe.

Take a Sunset Cruise on the Mekong
Enjoy city views from the river. Dinner cruises are also available.

Enjoy Cafés and Rooftops
Phnom Penh boasts chic cafés and rooftop bars. Try Sora Skybar or Eclipse Sky Bar for stunning 360° views of the city.

Climb Wat Phnom Hill
An iconic temple perched on a small hill north of downtown. A legendary site linked to the founding of Phnom Penh.

Take a Trip to Silk Island (Koh Dach)
Accessible by ferry or boat from the city center. Discover local silk weaving, rice fields, and bike rides in a rural setting.

Taste Khmer Cuisine in Great Restaurants
Recommended spots: Malis, Khéma, Romdeng (a social enterprise restaurant). Must-try specialties include fish amok, beef lok lak, and Khmer soups.