BUDGET TRAVEL STYLE: 2 DAYS IN PHNOM PENH (CAMBODJA)

Embrace the essence of Phnom Penh’s history, culture, and local life while keeping your budget intact. Save this itinerary, and don’t forget to bring your QR code for a seamless travel experience!

Day 1: Discovering Cultural Gems and Riverside Views

Morning Exploration: Local Breakfast and Riverside Stroll

8:00 AM – Local Breakfast at Street Vendor

  • Begin your day with an authentic Cambodian breakfast at a local street vendor. Prices are usually budget-friendly, offering a taste of local flavors.

Here are some streets and areas in Phnom Penh where you can explore street food vendors:

  • Street 51 (Pasteur Street):
    • This street is popular for its nightlife and is lined with various food stalls and vendors offering a mix of local and international street food.
  • Street 172 (Oknha Peich Street):
    • Located in the Riverside area, Street 172 is known for its lively atmosphere and a range of street food options, from grilled meats to local snacks.
  • Street 136 (Preah Ang Eng Street):
    • Street 136 is in the heart of the Riverside district and is known for its diverse food offerings. You can find everything from traditional Cambodian dishes to international cuisine.
  • Street 178 (Sothearos Boulevard):
    • Street 178, near the National Museum, is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. It features various restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls.
  • Central Market Area (Phsar Thmei):
    • The vicinity around Central Market is busy with street food vendors. You can explore the streets surrounding the market for a variety of local snacks and dishes.
  • Night Market Area (Sisowath Quay):
    • Sisowath Quay, along the riverside, comes alive in the evening with street food stalls and vendors offering a range of snacks and meals.
  • Street 63 (Trasak Paem Street):
    • Street 63 is known for its cafes and eateries, and you can find street food vendors offering local specialties.

When trying Cambodian breakfast dishes, consider:

  • Street vendors often accept cash only, so it’s advisable to have small denominations.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask the vendor for customization based on your preferences, such as spice levels or ingredient adjustments.
  • Engage with the vendor, ask about local customs, and enjoy the immersive experience of street food culture.

9:00 AM – Riverside Stroll

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Tonle Sap River. Explore the riverside promenade and absorb the local atmosphere. Witness daily life as locals engage in morning activities, and enjoy the view of iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace.

Midday Cultural Adventure: Lunch, Royal Palace and National Museum

12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Eatery : Daughters of Cambodia

  • Overview: Daughters of Cambodia is a social enterprise that operates a cafe and training center, providing support and vocational training for women who have been rescued from human trafficking. The cafe not only serves delicious food but also contributes to a meaningful cause.
  • Address: 311, Street 178, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
  • Suggested dishes:
    • Amok: A rich blend of Cambodian flavors. Choose your preferred protein, and enjoy this traditional dish served with rice.
    • Lok Lak: Their Lok Lak is a delightful stir-fried beef dish, seasoned to perfection and accompanied by fresh vegetables.

2:30 PM – Explore the Royal Palace

  • Visit the grandeur of the Royal Palace, a symbolic representation of Cambodia’s monarchy.

Grab our Suggestd Path:

  • Main Entrance: Begin your Royal Palace adventure at the main entrance, located on Sothearos Boulevard. Admire the impressive architecture and the beautiful gardens that lead to the palace complex.
  • Purchase Tickets: Head to the ticket counter to purchase your entrance tickets. Make sure to check for any additional guidelines or information provided by the staff.
  • Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo): Start your exploration with the Silver Pagoda, a breathtaking temple located within the Royal Palace complex.
    • Marvel at the Silver Pagoda’s floor, adorned with over 5,000 silver tiles.
    • Explore the collection of precious Buddha statues and artifacts.
    • Admire the Emerald Buddha, a remarkable and sacred statue.
  • Throne Hall (Preah Tineang Tevea Vinichhay): Continue to the Throne Hall, the central building of the Royal Palace. Explore the grandeur of the Throne Hall’s interior, featuring intricate decorations and traditional Khmer architectural elements. Learn about the historical significance of the Throne Hall and its role in royal ceremonies.
  • Moonlight Pavilion (Preah Tineang Chan Chhaya): Visit the Moonlight Paviion, an elegant structure used for royal dances and performances.
  • Admire the pavilion’s design and its open-air layout, providing a glimpse into traditional Khmer performance spaces.
  • Khemarin Palace (Prasat Khemarin): Explore the Khemarin Palace, the private residence of the King of Cambodia. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior and surrounding gardens are worth a visit.
  • Chanchhaya Pavilion (Prasat Chanchhaya): Head to the Chanchhaya Pavilion, located near the western wall of the Royal Palace complex.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area from the pavilion.
  • Gardens and Courtyards: Take a leisurely stroll through the palace gardens and courtyards. Appreciate the well-manicured landscapes and the serene atmosphere. Capture photos of the beautiful architecture and decorative elements.
  • Royal Palace Museum: If time allows and you’re interested in delving deeper into Cambodia’s royal history, consider visiting the Royal Palace Museum located within the palace complex.

4:00 PM – National Museum

  • Head to the nearby National Museum to delve into Cambodia’s rich history. Discover artifacts, sculptures, and exhibits showcasing the country’s cultural heritage.

Our Suggested Path:

  • Main Entrance: Begin your visit at the main entrance of the National Museum, located on Street 178 (Sothearos Boulevard). Admire the architecture of the museum, designed in traditional Khmer style.
  • Ticketing: Purchase your tickets at the entrance or, if you’ve pre-booked online, proceed directly to the ticket check.
  • Khmer Sculpture Garden: Before entering the main galleries, take a stroll through the Khmer Sculpture Garden. Marvel at the collection of statues and artifacts displayed outdoors.
  • Explore the Galleries: As you enter the museum, you’ll find several galleries showcasing Khmer art and artifacts. The galleries are arranged chronologically, providing a journey through Cambodia’s history.
    • Pre-Angkor Period: Discover artifacts from the pre-Angkor period, including sculptures and pieces from various regions of Cambodia.
    • Angkor Period: Explore the gallery dedicated to the Angkor period, featuring sculptures and items from the Khmer Empire’s golden age.
    • Post-Angkor Period: Learn about the post-Angkor period and the evolution of Khmer art during this era.
  • Ceramics and Ethnography: Visit the section dedicated to ceramics and ethnography. Explore the diverse collection of pottery, ceramics, and everyday objects that provide insights into Cambodian daily life.
  • Temporary Exhibitions: Check if there are any temporary exhibitions or special displays during your visit. These exhibitions often showcase specific themes or collections.
  • King Jayavarman VII Statue: Don’t miss the statue of King Jayavarman VII, a significant historical figure in Cambodia’s history. The statue is often located in a central area of the museum.
  • Southeast Asian Ceramics: Explore the gallery dedicated to Southeast Asian ceramics, featuring a collection of pottery from different cultures in the region.
  • Library and Research Center: If you’re interested in further reading and research, consider a visit to the museum’s library and research center.
  • Museum Shop: Conclude your visit by exploring the museum shop. Here, you can find unique souvenirs, books, and crafts related to Khmer art and culture.

Evening Delights: Local Dinner and Riverside Sunset

7:00 PM – Dinner at Kabbas Restaurant

  • Overview: Kabbas Restaurant offers a budget-friendly menu with a focus on Cambodian home-style cooking. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and grilled meats. Serves vegetarian dishes.
  • Address: 18 Street 125, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

8:30 PM – Riverside Sunset at Sisowath Quay

  • Conclude your day with a serene sunset along Sisowath Quay. Relax by the riverbanks, savoring the picturesque views of the setting sun over the water.

Day 2: Historical Exploration and Local Markets

Morning History Trail: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Choeung Ek

9:30 AM – Breakfast at Blue Pumpkin

  • Overview: Blue Pumpkin is a local chain known for its bakery and café offerings. They serve a mix of Western and Cambodian breakfast options in a relaxed setting.
  • Address: 135, Sisowath Quay, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
  • Suggested Dishes for Breakfast:
    • Cambodian Breakfast Set: Includes Bai Sach Chrouk, Num Banh Chok, and traditional Cambodian sides.
    • Assorted Pastries: Freshly baked croissants, muffins, and bread.

10:30 AM – Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

  • Embark on a sobering visit to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, a former prison during the Khmer Rouge regime. Gain insight into Cambodia’s tragic history through exhibits and survivor stories.

Afternoon Market Exploration: Russian Market and Central Market

12:30 PM – Lunch at Russian Market

  • Head to the Russian Market for a budget-friendly lunch. The Russian Market Food Court is a collection of food stalls and small eateries within the market premises. It offers a diverse range of Cambodian and international dishes at affordable prices. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for a quick and budget-friendly lunch.
  • Recommended Dishes:
    • Cambodian Noodles: Try a bowl of traditional Cambodian noodles with your choice of meat.
    • Stir-Fried Rice Dishes: Explore the variety of stir-fried rice and noodle dishes available.
  • Address: Psar Toul Tom Pong (Russian Market), Corner of Street 440 and Street 155, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

2:30 PM – Russian Market for quick shopping or just strolling to immerse in local culture

Stroll through the bustling aisles of the Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Pong). Discover local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Bargain for unique finds and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

4:00 PM – Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

  • Explore the iconic Central Market, known for its distinctive architecture. Wander through the market’s various sections, including jewelry, textiles, and fresh produce. Head to the center of the market to explore the jewelry section. Navigate to the clothing section, where you’ll find a variety of garments, textiles, and traditional Khmer clothing. Explore the electronics and watch section for a range of gadgets, timepieces, and electronic accessories. Visit the Psah Thom Thmei Art Gallery within the market. Explore Cambodian art and cultural exhibitions to gain insights into the country’s rich history.

Evening Farewell: Local Dinner and Night Market

7:00 PM – Dinner at Khmer Surin

  • Overview: Khmer Surin is a local eatery serving authentic Cambodian dishes at reasonable prices. It’s a favorite among locals for its flavorful and hearty meals.
  • Suggested Dishest:
    • Crispy Spring Rolls: A delectable appetizer featuring spring rolls filled with a delightful combination of carrot and taro. Deep-fried to perfection, these rolls are served with a side of sweet sauce.
    • Pad Thai Delight : Experience the flavors of Thailand with our Pad Thai, a stir-fried dish featuring thin rice noodles, your choice of meat (chicken, beef, or pork), an egg, spring onion, bean sprouts, and thick soy sauce. Topped with cracked roasted peanuts and a slice of lime, it’s a savory delight.
    • Pineapple Bliss Fried Rice: Indulge in the tropical goodness of our Pineapple Fried Rice. Stir-fried to perfection, this dish combines rice with chicken, pineapple, raisins, cashew nuts, and coconut milk, served in a pineapple shell for a visually appealing and flavorful experience.
    • Savory Stir-fried Beef in Oyster Sauce: Savor the rich flavors of our stir-fried beef, complemented by collard greens and spring onion, all tossed in a savory oyster sauce.
    • Fish with Tamarind Sauce: Immerse yourself in the deep-fried perfection of our whole fish (Trey Dom Rei), served with a tantalizing tamarind sauce that enhances the natural flavors.

8:30 PM – Night Market at Riverside

  • Conclude your two-day journey with a visit to the Night Market along the Tonle Sap River. Explore stalls selling local crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant evening atmosphere.