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Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh is more than just a stopover-it’s a city with serious character. It can be gritty and overwhelming at first, but once you find your rhythm, you discover incredible food, history, and culture. I spent my time here hunting down the best coffee in BKK1, navigating the Russian Market, and learning about the country’s past. If you are looking for honest advice on things to do in Phnom Penh, where to stay, and how to handle the chaos, these are my personal stories and tips.
The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Phnom Penh
Go where the locals go—taste, walk, and feel Phnom Penh in its purest form.
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Questions About Phnom Penh
Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists, especially solo travelers?
Yes, Phnom Penh is generally safe, even for solo travelers. Like any big city, keep an eye on your belongings — bag snatching from motorbikes does happen. I kept my crossbody bag close and felt fine wandering even at night near Riverside. Cambodians are kind and helpful, and most crime is opportunistic, not violent.
What’s the best way to get around Phnom Penh?
Tuk-tuks rule the roads — and they’re part of the Phnom Penh travel experience. Use apps like Grab or PassApp to avoid haggling. Traffic can be wild, so walking isn’t always easy, especially with few sidewalks. Still, hopping in a tuk-tuk with temple bells jingling is half the charm of visiting Phnom Penh.
When’s the best time to visit Phnom Penh for good weather?
November to February is ideal — dry, breezy, and cooler (by Cambodian standards). March to May gets hot and sticky, and June to October brings the monsoon. I visited in early December and sipped iced coffee riverside under bright blue skies — perfect.
How much does it cost to travel in Phnom Penh on a budget?
It’s one of Southeast Asia’s best-value capitals. You can eat a delicious local meal for $2–$3, stay in solid guesthouses for $20–$30, and get across town for $1 in a tuk-tuk. A travel guide for Phnom Penh almost always mentions how far your dollars stretch here — and they really do.
Are there any important local customs or taboos to know when visiting Phnom Penh?
Yes — always remove shoes when entering homes or temples, and never touch someone’s head (it’s sacred in Khmer culture). When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect. Smiling goes far in Cambodia — it’s part of the cultural rhythm.
Is Phnom Penh a good base for exploring other parts of Cambodia?
Definitely. It’s the heart of the country, with easy connections to Siem Reap, Kampot, or even the islands. Buses and private taxis run regularly. After a few days of exploring Phnom Penh’s buzz, I took a slow train south to Kampot — watching rice fields roll past was pure peace.
What’s the Wi-Fi and internet situation like in Phnom Penh?
Surprisingly good. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, and it’s usually fast enough for video calls or remote work. If you want mobile data, grab a local SIM — Smart and Cellcard are solid options. I paid $5 for 10GB and had coverage even out in the countryside.
Can I drink the tap water in Phnom Penh?
It’s not recommended. Locals don’t drink it either. Bottled water is cheap and everywhere, and many hotels provide free daily bottles. I used tap water for brushing teeth without issue, but I always carried a big refillable bottle while exploring — staying hydrated in that heat is non-negotiable.
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