Phnom Penh Experience

Tour Itinerary

DAY 1: PHNOM PENH DISCOVERY (L)

Start your day early with a unique local experience—watch the group aerobics sessions along the riverside, a lively and energetic way many locals begin their day. After breakfast, begin your exploration of Phnom Penh.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace has been the official residence of Cambodia’s kings since 1860, when King Norodom I moved the capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. While parts of the palace remain private, visitors can explore grand areas such as the Throne Hall, the Emerald Buddha, and the Maitreya Buddha—a life-size gold statue adorned with 9,584 diamonds.

National Museum

Next, take a glimpse at the National Museum, home to around 2,000 pieces of Khmer art. The museum is organized into four galleries surrounding a beautiful central courtyard. Note that photography is not allowed inside.

Wat Ounalom Monastery

Located right on the Tonle Sap River, Wat Ounalom is a must-see. Founded in the 15th century, it is considered the spiritual center of Cambodian Buddhism and serves as the seat of the Maha Nikaya order. Though destroyed by the Khmer Rouge in 1975, the temple has since been beautifully restored. During your visit, you’ll learn about Buddhist philosophy and spiritual teachings.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Wat Phnom

After lunch, hop into a tuk-tuk and head to Wat Phnom, one of the city’s most iconic sites. According to legend, it was built in the 14th century by Daun Penh, a wealthy woman who discovered Buddha statues inside a tree trunk. She placed them on a small hill, or “phnom,” which gave the city its name—Phnom Penh. The temple is the city’s oldest pagoda. Hidden to the left of the main stairs is the mysterious grave of a Frenchman named Fourcros, its presence still unexplained. Entry is free for locals and $1 for foreigners. Late afternoon is the best time to visit, as the site is beautifully illuminated.

Phnom Penh Central Market or Orussey Market

End the afternoon at the Central Market (Phsar Thmey)—the fifth-largest market in the world, known for its impressive Art Deco dome built in 1937 by French architects. Alternatively, visit Orussey Market for a more local, authentic experience, with narrow alleys and fewer tourists.

Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing cocktail by the Tonle Sap River, followed by dinner.

DAY 2: HISTORY OF PHNOM PENH (L)

At 8:00 AM, meet your guide and set out for a somber yet essential journey into Cambodia’s recent history.

Killing Fields of Choeung Ek

Located 17 km southwest of the city, Choeung Ek was the site of mass executions during the Khmer Rouge regime. Over 129 mass graves have been discovered here, containing the remains of nearly 17,000 victims. A glass stupa at the center houses many of the recovered bones in memory of the dead. Be sure to bring water and a hat, as this visit lasts approximately 4 hours.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21 Prison)

Back in Phnom Penh, visit the former Tuol Svay Prey High School, which was turned into S-21, the most notorious prison under the Khmer Rouge. Around 20,000 people were imprisoned here and subjected to brutal torture. Today, it serves as a powerful genocide museum. You’ll see preserved cells, torture chambers, and victim portraits, as well as paintings by one of the few survivors. An optional audio guide, available in multiple languages, is highly recommended for deeper understanding.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Sunset Cruise on Tonle Sap

At 5:30 PM, unwind with a scenic cruise on the Tonle Sap River, offering stunning views of Phnom Penh as the sun sets.

Return to your hotel to relax and reflect after an intense and emotional day.