Planning a trip to Cambodia’s vibrant capital? This comprehensive 2-day Phnom Penh itinerary covers everything from heartbreaking historical sites to hidden culinary gems and buzzing nightlife. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or culture enthusiast, these two days will give you an authentic taste of Phnom Penh!
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions of Phnom Penh
Arriving in Phnom Penh: Getting From the Airport
Welcome to Phnom Penh! After clearing airport formalities, here’s what you need to know:
First things first: Buy a SIM card right at the airport. You’ll thank yourself later when navigating the city!
Getting to Your Hotel:
- Pre-booked transfer: If you’ve booked a private transfer, your driver will be waiting for you at arrivals – stress-free!
- On the spot: Grab a tuk-tuk or taxi from the airport entrance (bring your bargaining skills!)
- Apps: Use PassApp or Grab for transparent pricing – my preferred method
Afternoon: Take It Easy & Explore at Your Own Pace
After a long flight, especially if you’re coming from India or anywhere with multiple connections, today is all about easing into Cambodia’s rhythm. No rushing, no pressure. Instead of ticking off a dozen attractions, let’s slow down and really experience the city.
Late Afternoon: David’s Noodles – A Viral TikTok Sensation for Good Reason!
If you’re venturing out in the late afternoon, hop on a tuk-tuk and head straight to David’s Noodles. This place went absolutely viral on TikTok, and trust me, the hype is 100% justified!
Why you need to go:
- Watch skilled chefs hand-pull fresh noodles right in front of you, tossing the dough with incredible flair
- The entertainment value alone is worth the trip
- Their signature dumplings are a crowd favorite that keeps both locals and travelers coming back
Pro tip: Get there before the dinner rush if you want to snag a front-row seat to the noodle-pulling show!
Wat Ounalom Monastery: The Heart of Cambodian Buddhism
Just a 2-minute walk from David’s Noodles lies Wat Ounalom, the headquarters of Cambodian Buddhism. This isn’t your typical tourist temple – it’s a living, breathing center of faith.
What makes it special:
- A stupa behind the main building enshrines an eyebrow hair of the Buddha
- Look for the ancient Pali inscription (an old Indian language) above the entrance
- Dozens of friendly cats lounging around the peaceful grounds add an unexpected charm
Evening: Sunset Stroll & Night Market Adventures
As dusk approaches, take a leisurely walk to either:
- Riverside Park – Perfect for watching the sunset over the Tonlé Sap River
- Independence Monument area – Beautiful at golden hour with locals doing their evening exercises
Still have energy? Head to the Phnom Penh Night Market for exotic street food and shopping. The atmosphere here is electric, vendors calling out, the sizzle of street food, the aroma of grilled meats, and the colorful array of souvenirs and handicrafts.
Day 2: Deep Dive into Cambodia’s History
If you have only one full day in Phnom Penh before your next destination, dedicate this entire day to understanding the profound history behind Cambodia. This will be emotional, educational, and absolutely essential to comprehending this beautiful country.
Hiring a Tuk-Tuk for the Day
I kicked off my day by hiring a tuk-tuk for a full-day tour – hands down the most convenient and budget-friendly way to explore Phnom Penh.
What’s typically included:
- Transportation to all sites
- Cold water bottles throughout the day
- A driver who waits for you at each stop
- Customizable itinerary based on YOUR schedule
Many tuk-tuk drivers can suggest the best routes and optimal timing to avoid crowds. I went with the classic historical route: Killing Fields first (starting early), then Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21), and ending at the stunning Royal Palace.
Alternative option: If you prefer a more structured experience with deeper insights, consider booking a small group tour with a guide covering the same attractions.
Morning: Choeung Ek (The Killing Fields)
Prepare yourself. Visiting Choeung Ek is not easy. But it’s absolutely essential to understanding Cambodia’s recent tragic past.
What is the Killing Fields?
Choeung Ek stands as one of Cambodia’s most tragic sites – a mass burial ground from the Khmer Rouge regime. This is just one of over 300 killing fields across the country, but it’s the most accessible and well-preserved.
Your visit includes:
- An audio guide (with ticket purchase) offering deeply moving survivor accounts
- Historical insights that bring the site to life
- Time to walk through this serene yet haunting place
As you walk through grounds now reclaimed by nature, you’ll encounter bones, teeth, and fragments of clothing – painful remnants visible in the soil. The centerpiece is the memorial stupa, filled with 8,000 skulls carefully arranged to honor the victims.
My experience: The audio guide takes you step by step, and there were moments I had to pause and just process what I was learning. Take your time here. Sit if you need to. This isn’t a race.
Mid-Morning: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum (S-21)
Once a bustling high school filled with children’s laughter, Tuol Sleng (S-21) was transformed by the Khmer Rouge into a secret prison and torture center during their brutal 1975-1979 regime.
The heartbreaking facts:
- It became the largest detention facility in the country
- Over 17,000 prisoners were subjected to unimaginable suffering here
- Most were eventually executed or sent to the Killing Fields
- Only a handful survived
What to expect:
- Original cells with harrowing photos
- Detailed documentation of the regime’s systematic brutality
- Rules and regulations that show the twisted logic of the oppressors
A living testimony: Near the exit, you may meet one of the FEW survivors who lived through S-21. They share their firsthand accounts and sell books documenting their experiences. Please, if you can, buy their books – it’s a small way to honor their resilience and ensure their stories continue.
Lunch Break: Essential Rest & Reflection
After diving into these sites, you’ll likely feel overwhelmed. The sheer amount of exhausting, hard-to-process information can weigh heavily on you.
My advice: Take a proper lunch break. Step away. Clear your mind. Grab some authentic Khmer food at a local restaurant – I recommend asking your tuk-tuk driver for recommendations (they know the best local spots!).
This break isn’t just about food – it’s about giving yourself space to process what you’ve learned before continuing your day.
Afternoon: The Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
After lunch, it’s time for something completely different – the stunning Royal Palace, one of Phnom Penh’s most iconic landmarks.
What you’ll see:
- The Throne Hall – Absolutely magnificent with its traditional Khmer architecture
- The Silver Pagoda – Named for its floor covered in 5,000 silver tiles (each weighing 1kg!)
Important notes:
- While the palace complex has four buildings, only two are open to visitors
- The remaining areas are still actively used by the Royal Family (yes, they actually live here!)
- Cool insider tip: Look for a blue flag flying over the palace – it means the King is currently in residence!
Dress code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. If you forget, they rent appropriate clothing at the entrance.
Late Afternoon: Riverside Walk
Take a peaceful walk along the scenic riverfront, directly across from the Royal Palace. The promenade is gorgeous during golden hour, with locals gathering for evening exercise, street food vendors setting up, and the river reflecting the warm light.
Optional sunset activity: Considering a Sunset River Cruise? Head to Preah Sisowath Quay where all the cruise boats depart.
Pro tip: Book your tickets ahead for better deals – many include unlimited beers and BBQ platters. Watching the sun set over the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers while enjoying cold drinks is absolutely magical.
Evening: Dinner at Bassac Lane
For dinner, head to Bassac Lane – just a short tuk-tuk ride from the riverfront. This has become one of Phnom Penh’s most loved after-dark destinations, and for good reason!
What you’ll find:
- Trendy bars with creative cocktails
- Cozy pubs with international and local beers
- Top-rated restaurants serving everything from fusion to authentic Cambodian Khmer cuisine
The lane comes alive at night with string lights, buzzing conversation, and the aroma of incredible food. It’s the perfect way to cap off an intense but rewarding day.
My recommendation: Try one of the Khmer restaurants and order Amok (coconut curry), Lok Lak (stir-fried beef), or Nom Banh Chok (Khmer noodles) – traditional dishes that will give you a true taste of Cambodia.
Practical Tips for Your 2 Days in Phnom Penh
Best Time to Visit Phnom Penh
- Dry season: November to April (most popular)
- Wet season: May to October (fewer tourists, lush greenery, occasional afternoon showers)
How Much to Budget (as of Dec 2024)
- Tuk-tuk full day: $15-25 USD
- Killing Fields entry: $6 USD (includes audio guide)
- S-21 entry: $5 USD (includes audio guide)
- Royal Palace entry: $10 USD
- Meals: $3-10 USD per person
- River cruise: $15-30 USD
Where to Stay in Phnom Penh
- BKK1 area: Trendy neighborhood with cafes and restaurants
- Riverside: Near the action, perfect for first-timers
- Russian Market area: More local, great for budget travelers
Getting Around
- Tuk-tuk: Negotiate or use apps (best for multiple stops)
- PassApp/Grab: For transparent pricing
- Walking: Great for riverside and city center
What to Pack for Phnom Penh
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll walk A LOT)
- Modest clothing for temples (covering shoulders and knees)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Power adapter (Type A, C, or G)
- Tissues (not all restrooms have toilet paper)
Final Thoughts: Is 2 Days in Phnom Penh Enough?
Honestly? Two days gives you a solid introduction to Phnom Penh. You’ll experience the essential historical sites, taste authentic Khmer cuisine, and feel the city’s unique energy.
Could you stay longer? Absolutely! Phnom Penh has more to offer – the National Museum, Central Market (Psar Thmei), Wat Phnom, and countless hidden gems. But if you’re on a tight schedule as part of a larger Cambodia itinerary, these two days hit all the highlights.
The key is being intentional with your time. This itinerary balances heavy historical learning with lighter cultural experiences, giving you the full Phnom Penh experience without burning out.
Next up? Most travelers head to Siem Reap next to explore Angkor Wat. The bus journey takes about 6 hours, or you can fly in 45 minutes.
Ready to explore more of Cambodia? Check out my complete Ultimate 7-Day Cambodia Itinerary for the full adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phnom Penh safe for tourists? A: Yes! Phnom Penh is generally safe, but use common sense – don’t flash expensive items, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid unlit areas at night.
Q: Do I need a visa for Cambodia? A: Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival ($30 USD for 30 days) or apply for an e-visa online before arriving.
Q: Can I use US dollars in Phnom Penh? A: Yes! Cambodia uses both US dollars and Cambodian riel. Dollars are preferred for most transactions, and you’ll get riel as change for small amounts.
Q: How emotionally difficult are the Killing Fields and S-21? A: They’re intense and emotionally draining. Take your time, skip parts if needed, and don’t feel pressured. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed.
Q: Should I book tours in advance or on arrival? A: Both work! Booking ahead guarantees availability and sometimes better prices, but Phnom Penh has many last-minute options too.
Have you been to Phnom Penh? Share your experiences in the comments below! What was your favorite part of the city?
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