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Things to Do in Phnom Penh

If you are looking for best things to do in Phnom Penh, then this is the perfect place you have landed. Pause here and you will get all your answers. Phnom Penh is one name that just can't resist the opportunity to conjure in you can picture of the exotic landscape. Settled at the conversion of 3 waterways - the great Tonle Sap, stunning Bassac and the mighty Mekong, the destination really is the veritable oasis in contrast with the innovation delineated by the other Asian capitals. The rippling saffron of the priests' robes, gleaming towers of the Royal Castle and the fascinating areas close to the banks of the Mekong, it is maybe that Asia which many dreams about from far and inside.

The metropolis was before viewed as the 'Pearl of Asia'. Its place of worship was damaged as a result of transformation and war. Be that as it may, the city has really ascended from the fiery remains and has made its name among the hip capitals of the district certify to its clamoring nightlife and bars, charming bistro culture and a first-rate sustenance scene

As a traveler, you will all basic amenities and activities which you expect in this region of the globe. From comfortable staying to delicious eateries along with the fun of shopping and remarkable sightseeing all, you will enjoy in this part of the world.

The conurbation is known for its things to do which everyone enjoys going ahead with. Some of such activities are like cooking classes, bicycle tours, playing golf, cruising, casino, diving, shooting, spa scuba diving and lots more.

Thus, there shall be no hesitation on your part to explore this wonderful capital city of Cambodia. Every visitor takes home back a lot of memories and unforgettable moments. There are lot of things to do in Phnom Penh.

Bouchon Wine Bar

Bouchon Wine BarBouchon Wine Bar is a renowned landmark in Phnom Penh that is known for its after work and nightlife scene.

Highlights: The exquisite wine bar of the Phnom Penh features an elegant selection of French wines that have been acquired from the different vintages, grapes and regions that have been exquisitely selected for the venue. Atmosphere at the Bouchon Wine Bar is unique and elegant given its industrial style blended with colonial vibe which is highly evident from the factory lamps, mirrors, concrete floors and a U shaped central bar which dominates the bar. Food menu of the bar is vivid and is famous for patés, roasted chicken, smoked meat plates and spaghetti foie gras.

Location: Bouchon Wine Bar is located at 3 street 246, Phnom Penh 12206, Cambodia

Timings: Bouchon Wine Bar stays open from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM from Tuesday to Sunday. On Mondays, the bar is usually closed.

Price: The Price for the drinks and the food at Bouchon Wine Bar is reasonable.

Baristo

Bar.sito is tucked down in the newest and the most exciting alleyway in Phnom Penh. It is dedicated to offering something exquisite and different to tourist markets, expat and Khmer.

Highlights:
240 ½ alleyway is the newest and the most burgeoning area of Phnom Penh. Offering opportunities for entertainment and retail including 88 Japanese Furniture, ARTillery, Paper Doll and of course the Bar.sito. Bar.sito. is a restautant that serves specially crafted and designed cocktails, red & white wines, Champagnes, ice-cold beers and spirits in a metropolitan alleyway bar. It is Phnom Penh’s debutant and the most unique speakeasy bar which offers the most classic and creative cocktails.

Location: Bar.sito is located at #3E0 St.240, Street 240, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Timings: Bar.sito remains open from Tuesday to Saturday from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM. However, on Sunday and Monday, the restaurant is shut.

Price: The Price at Bar.sito usually varies from $$ (10-30).

The Exchange

At the forefront of the Modern international cuisine, The Exchange has successfully been able to reinvent the flavours of the world in stylish new forms.

Highlights:
The Exchange offers phenomenal culinary delights backed with the incredible service in a sensational historic French villa. It has impeccably stood the test of the time for about a century. Attracting both the international acclaims and the locals given its top rated style and ambience, this is one of the most loved restaurants in Cambodia. It provides the guests with an incomparable “Exchange experience.”

Location: The Exchange is located at 28, France st, (st47), Wat Phnom, Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Timings: The Exchange stays open from 10 AM in the morning to the midnight on all days of the week.

Price: Price is variable and will largely depend on the dishes ordered by you. However, if you wish to avail some discounts you can make a visit during the happy hour that is usually from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

The Heart Of Darkness

One of the main reasons as to why Cambodia has transformed from being an architectural marvel to a country of buzzling nightlife is due to the factor that this place has so many night bars and clubs. The Heart of Darkness is one such classic bar and is widely regarded as Cambodia’s most famous bar since its inception in 1993.

Highlights – As the name indicates, the interiors of The Heart of Darkness are quite dark yet safe. Traditional Khmer style interiors and culture ooze out from every nook and cranny of this place. Tourists, expats and locals drop in at this bar just to feel the essence and vibration of this place. The fingerfood offered here is absolutely delicious.

Location – Street 51 of Phnom Penh River Side.

Price – Local Beer Bottle – USD2; Imported Beer & Standard Drink – USD3, Cocktail – USD4.

Timings – 10PM till late into the night.

Sport Bar

In the recent past, Phnom Penh has witness the opening of many night clubs and restaurants. Sport Bar is one of them.

Highlights – Though originally set up to serve as an exclusive sports bar in the Cambodian capital city, Sport Bar is now entertaining guests with a wide variety of music like hip-hop, rock, classics and more. Loud music, open-air ambience, friendly and youthful staff members and a great crowd at all times are some of the major highlights of Sport Bar. Do not miss to taste their sandwiches, spaghetti and non-vegetarian main courses when you come here, because they are some of the best in Cambodia. This open air bar also serves an impressive list of drinks and cocktails for the large number of tourists, expats and locals who come here every day.

Location - Phnom Penh.

Price – Highly affordable.

Timings – Open 24/7.

Sharky Bar & Restaurant

Sharky Bar is one of the Phnom Penh’s oldest night bars and is still popular among local and international tourists coming here in large numbers, especially during the weekend. The reason why weekends is quite crowded here is because of the live music band which plays songs as per the request of guests.

Highlights – Come to this night bar on your vacation to get a true feeling of what nightlife in Phnom Penh is exactly like. You will never know the time once you are inside the bar, because there are lots of activities like soothing music and pool tables to keep you engaged. You can also get a good selection of Tex-Mex, Thai and Western cuisine here to accompany your drinks.

Location – Street 130 of Phnom Penh riverside.

Price – USD1 for Angkor draft beer and USD2 for Cranbulkas.

Timings – 4PM to late hours; happy hours – 5PM to 8PM.

Shanghai Bar

If you are looking for a hostess bar that has been in the business for a long time and that has made a mark for itself in this industry, it is the Shanghai Bar located right in the heart of the Cambodian capital city, Phnom Penh.

Highlights – Shanghai Bar is still as popular today as it was during the olden days,because the quality of services and food offered here. It is considered as the true representation of Phnom Penh’s nightlife today. People from all over the globe visit here in large numbers, especially during the weekends to get a feel of this bar. Known for its great hostesses and reasonable prices, this bar is definitely one of the leaders when it comes to night bars in Phnom Penh.

Location – Street 51 of Phnom Penh riverside.

Price – Draught Beer, Imported Beer and Standard drinks – USD2.50 onwards and Lady Drink – USD3 onwards.

Timings – 4PM until late into night; happy hours from 6PM to 9PM.

Rubies Wine Bar

Rubies Wine Bar is named this way, because it is known for its wide variety of exotic wines. The place offers some of the best wines in the world, which is why it has many repeat customers during the weekend.

Highlights - Though it is not located in the area where there are other nightspots, many people still visit Rubies Wine Bar because the dishes and drinks offered here are absolutely top class. Soothing music, wonderful interiors, friendly staff, affordable drinks, world-class wines, free Wi-Fi, excellent cuisine and personalised services are some of the highlights of Rubies Wine Bar.

Location – Oknha Chuun Street 240.

Price –Draught beer –USD2, Imported beer – USD3, Glass of wine – USD3.5, Standard drinks – USD3, Cocktail – USD3.50 and so on.

Timings – 10AM to 1AM or 2AM (weekends).

Riverside Bistro

One of the best places to enjoy Phnom Penh’s buzzing nightlife, the Riverside Bistro is a hot favourite among tourists from across the globe. This is because this bar doesn’t keep its guests bored even for a minute. There are lots of fun-things and activities offered at the bar to keep guests hooked on till the wee hours of night.

Highlights – Riverside Bistro is one of the few places in Phnom Penh where a live band performs for the guests, playing songs based on their request. All kinds of songs like the old classics, rock music, pop and other gems are played by the band here. Asian and Western cuisine are available at this bar, making the food absolutely delicious. With great interiors and excellent customer satisfaction, this bar is definitely a top attraction in Cambodia.

Location – Street 148 of Phnom Penh riverside.

Price – Local and imported beer bottles start from USD2.50 and USD3 respectively.

Timings – 7AM to late night hours.

Pit Stop Bar

If you are looking for a bar with a great relaxing feel and lounge facilities, Pit Stop Bar is the place to be. Located in a street which is lined with other bars and nightspots, Pit Stop Bar has managed to attract customers to a great extent due to its excellent service and variety of food.

Highlights – Friendly customer service, soothing music as per the requests of customers, reasonably priced food and drinks, lounge facilities that offer relaxation, free pool tables, great ambience, amazing variety of cocktails and a rich Khmer history are some of the points that work in favour of Pit Stop Bar.

Location – Street 51 of Phnom Penh riverside.

Price – Drinks and food are priced between USD3 and USD20.

Timings – Pit Stop Bar is open from 6PM to 3AM.

Lobby Lounge & Bar

If you are willing to visit a luxury bar and pay a little extra for the ambience and high quality of services, you should visit the Lobby Lounge and Bar in Phnom Penh. Part of the Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts, the Lobby Lounge & Bar offers the best wine and cheese in the locality.

Highlights – Come here to enjoy a relaxing morning coffee or celebrate with an impressive range of cocktails in the evening with friends. Irrespective of what you are looking for, you will get full enjoyment when you come here. You will be impressed with the exhaustive selection of snacks and drinks that are on the offing at this bar.

Location – Strategically located in Mao Tse Toung Blvd, between the International Airport and riverside of Phnom Penh.

Price – The bar gives out prices only upon request.

Timings – The Lobby Lounge and Bar is open from 9AM to 11PM.

Howie Bar

If you are looking for place that is open into the late hours of night when you are enjoying the nightlife of Phnom Penh, Howie Bar comes to your rescue as it is open for a longer time than most of the other bars that are in the vicinity. One of the best parts of Howie is that you can hold up a conversation with almost all anybody who comes here. Locals, tourists and expats visit this bar frequently. Staff members are very friendly and the price is definitely worth the price it demands.

Highlights – Situated in close proximity to famous joints like Heart of Darkness and Pontoon nightclub, Howie Bar is one of the most entertaining nightspots in Phnom Penh. This is also one of the safest bars in the city, provided you don’t stay for too long here.

Location – Street 51, Phnom Penh.

Price – A cocktail costs around USD3.50; prices are indeed steep here.

Timings – Open 24/7.

Candy Bar

It is one of the most sought after hostess bars in Phnom Penh. Located in close proximity to the riverfront, this bar a hot property among local and international guests . Comfortable interiors, cushioned seating, great music, highly-hospitable staff, affordable drinks and snacks and a soothing overall ambience make this bar one of the top attractions in the nightlife of Phnom Penh.

Highlights – Don’t forget to taste their authentic Khmer, Western and Thai dishes when you order your drinks. When you are done with eating, you can take off some time for yourself to enjoy at the pool table at the bar. This bar has made its mark as one of the better known sports bar in Phnom Penh.

Location – Close to the Phnom Penh riverfront.

Price – Draft beer available from USD1.25.

Timings – Open 24/7; happy hours last between 9AM and 7PM.

Cadillac Bar & Grill

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia is best enjoyed during the night hours, when it is buzzing with activities. There are quite a few bars in the city which serve great refreshments and drinks along with some scintillating music. Cadillac Bar & Grill is one of them. This is one of the best bars in Phnom Penh as the place serves great Western cuisine, lots of varieties of drinks and has highly hospitable staff members.

Highlights – Visit here during Fridays, as you get all drinks and food for just USD5. (Famous $5 Fridays). Try out the burgers, as they are one of the biggest in the world. Download the bar’s app on your smartphone to know more about offers.

Location – Phnom Penh riverside.

Price – Draft and local beer cans are available from USD1.50 onwards. The biggest burgers cost about USD6.75.

Timings – 8AM to 11PM;

Happy hours- 4PM to 8PM (come to avail good deals during these hours).

Cocina Cartel

Cocina Cartel is a popular Mexican Restaurant that Cambodia boasts of.

Highlights – This place offers a scintillating variety of Mexican dishes. Combined with the great customer service and highly hospitable nature of the chefs and staff members of this place, guests coming here are treated to a magical experience. It is this hospitality and warmth that the restaurant exudes, which makes it one of the talking points in Phnom Penh. Cuban and Latin cuisine is also served at the restaurant here. This restaurant has the best combination of everything - best chefs, best staffs, best food and best service.

Location - Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Price for two – USD10 to USD15.

Speciality dishes – Home- made tortillas, op-shelf tequilas, slow cooked meats and freshly made salsas. They also serve fresh Guac with corn chips and enchiladas.

Timings - All days 11 30 AM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM.

The Lost Room

The Lost Room provides one of the best experiences in dining in the Cambodian capital city of Phnom Penh.

Highlights – The food is too delicious here that your gastronomic trip to Cambodia is considered incomplete if you don’t visit The Lost Room. The name might seem a bit creepy but the ambience here is heavenly and is a complete irony to the room. This restaurant provides a decent customer service. One has to book for a place to dine here, well in advance. They provide wide variety of dishes which are so delicious that one might regret of not having enough space in their stomach to taste all the foods.

Location - Abdul Carime, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Price for two – USD8 to USD22

Speciality dishes - Their main dishes are crab cakes, sea bass, falafel, chorizo, and duck.

Timings - monday to saturday 5 PM to 10PM, Sunday – closed.

Quitapenas

Quitapenas is a popular restaurant which serves the best Spanish cuisine in Phnom Penh in Cambodia.

Highlights – This restaurant offers a really wide variety of dishes of Spanish origin. The dishes are so delicious and it gives the best experience of Spanish cuisine to its customers. The customer service is quite decent providing a warm welcome to its customers and giving them a satisfied meal. The place is best known for its sunday brunch.

Location - Phnom Penh. Price for two – Around USD10. Speciality dishes - There are many other dishes which are the main attractions of this restaurant like the dishes of sea bass, paella, octopus and duck. They also serve one of the best cheese balls in the locality making it distinct from other restaurants.

Timings - 6PM to 12AM during week days and 11AM to 2.30PM & 6PM to 12AM on weekends.

Piccola Italia Da Luigi

Piccola Italia Da Luigi is a restaurant which serves Italian cuisine.

Highlights - They are known for their pizzas as they are Italian based restaurants. The place is well maintained even though it is quite small. The cleanliness and hygiene that they maintain are two factors that differentiate them from other restaurants. The customer service is also very friendly when compared to other restaurants. They have a very special pizza crust, that they make themselves. The atmosphere is also quite decent because of the cleanliness they maintain.

Location -Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Price for two – USD18. Speciality dishes - They serve the best pizzas, breads, burgers and antipasti. The must try is the tiramisu which is almost recommended by anyone who tries it. The pizzas are so good but are served at an affordable price.

Timings - morning hours - 11 30 AM to 2 PM; afternoon hours - 5 30 PM to 10 PM.

Phnom Penh Local Markets

Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia is a shopper’s paradise. You will be able to find anything from a pin to plane in these local markets. The variety of local and international goods that you get here is absolutely mind-boggling.

Highlights - First and foremost, know what you can shop for from these local markets – Handmade scarves, lanterns, silk garments, intricately carved statues, second-hand electronics and DVDs are some good choices to pick up from here. The important markets that need to be covered in Phnom Penh are Central Market or Phsar Thmei (known for its electronics, household goods, jewellery, clothes and fresh food), Russian Market or Phsar Toul Tompong (known for its excellent souvenirs, sculptures, paintings, silk scarves and other goods at affordable prices), Orussei Market or Phsar Orussei (known for its household goods) and Night Market or Phsar Rea Try (known for its food and snacks and open from 6pm to 12am).

Location – All over Phnom Penh.

Timings – Depends on individual markets.

Price – Entry is free of cost

Sisowath Quay

If you are taking up a city tour of the Cambodian capital city of Phnom Penh, Sisowath Quay plays a very important role. This is a riverside promenade and one of the most beautiful places in Cambodia.

Highlights – Running along for 3km, the promenade of Sisowath Quay is lined up with beautiful shops, hotels, restaurants, tourist-friendly locations, bars and cafes. Don’t miss to experience the traditional tuk-tuk drive from the Royal Palace to get to this place, as you will get to see the entire beauty of the pathway, through this route. Some of the top attractions that you just cannot afford to miss on this promenade are the Royal Palace, National Museum, various art galleries, Ounalom Monastery, Elephant Bar, Floating Restaurants and many more.

Location – Cham Karmom district.

Timings – Can be visited anytime during the day; however sunset and sunrise hours are considered to be ideal.

Price – No entry fee applicable for this riverside promenade.

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Phnom Penh Things To Do FAQs

What are some of the best things to do in Phnom Penh?

There are many fine activities which one can enjoy in this town. You have the scope of doing almost everything which comes to your mind. Some of the best thing which visitors love to do here is:

Boating
Cooking Classes
Interactive Wildlife tours
Casino
Scuba Diving

These are just to name a few. When you explore, there are much more things which you will come across. So as per your need and taste, finalize the best activities. Food tour, river cruises, sightseeing, historical or cultural tour are some other things which you may opt for.

Which are best cruising experiences in Phnom Penh?

Cruising is one of the best activities to do in Phnom Penh. From day cruise to sunset cruise and night cruise, all can be done here. The views from the water bodies are breathtaking and will definitely give you the best of the experience. Some of the popular cruises in the city are:

Phnom Penh Sunset Cruise
Udong Day Cruise
Half Day Bassac River Cruise
Mekong River Cruise

These were just to name a few. There are many other cruises offering breakfast, lunch, dinner as per your suitability and requirement. So choose the best and enjoy this wonderful experience.

Which are the best cooking classes for Phnom Penh food?

If you are a food lover and like to cook it for your near and dear ones, then this is the perfect destination for you to be in. You can learn so many tips in this region of the globe which will add a lot to your cooking skills. Some of the popular cooking classes you should look forward to being:

La Table Khmere Cooking class
Feel Good Cooking School by Chef Nara
Linna Culinary School
Veasna in the Kitchen

As a tourist, you will hardly get this experience in any other part of the world.

Which are the best places to cycle around Phnom Penh?

Cycling is one of the best sporting activities to enjoy in the city. During your cycle tour, you will not only enjoy fine roads but also some alluring sightseeing. This will add a lot to your whole tour to Phnom Penh. Some of the popular cycling routes here are:

Cycle around Oudong Mountain
Phnom Penh to Siem Reap
Grasshopper Adventure Day Tour

These are just a few names around. You will get numerous places to cycle around the town. As mentioned, the charm of cycling in the city amidst the beautiful sights is totally unique and one should give a try to it.

Which are the best places for a spa in Phnom Penh?

Spa in this part of the world is something which you will surely enjoy. The spa here very famous and barely any visitor miss taking the pleasure of spa services in this enthralling destination. Some of the popular places to visit for having the spa here are:

Bliss Spa
La Rose Spa
Bodia Spa Phnom Penh
One day spa and beauty salon
Paradise Spa

These are just a few popular renowned locations. This region of the globe is very well known for its spa services and thus you will number of spa center here offering excellent service.

Which are some famous museums to visit in Phnom Penh?

The museum is another attraction which makes visitors to catch the flights to Phnom Penh. It is something very alluring and informative which tempts every traveler to explore various museums here. Some of the popular museums of the metropolis are:

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
National Museum
Galerie Bruno Levy
O Menge Gallery
Kbach Gallery

In all such places, you will explore a different scene and culture. There are various aspects with respect to history and culture which one will come across. These are surely among the must-visit destination when you opt to tour here.

Which are some famous temple and archeological tours to take in Phnom Penh?

Apart from everything, there are numerous temples and archeological sites which one should explore during his trip to this wonderful conurbation. Some of them are as follows:

Phnom Chisor Temple
The Royal Palace
Wat Phnom
Wat Botum
Wat Moha Montrey
Wat Saravan

These sites undoubtedly will take allure you and if you are someone who loves to explore such classical and ancient sites, then this tour will take your trip to the next level. Here also, you will be able to come across rich history and culture of this wonderful destination.

Which are some famous markets to shop in Phnom Penh?

Shopping is an activity without which any trip is incomplete. At Phnom Penh, there are numerous places where you can shop varieties of items for your near and dear ones. Some of the popular shopping destinations of the city are:

Aeon Mall
Hidden Treasures
City Mall
Olympic Market
Russian Market
Central Market
Sorya Mall
O' Russey Market

Silk, handicraft, silverware, clothes are the items, to name a few, which the tourists take away most from the places mentioned above. You have plenty to explore here and a shopaholic will surely love this place.