PHNOM PENH TOURS & HIGHLIGHTS
Once dubbed the “Pearl of Asia,” Phnom Penh is a city where Cambodia’s rich royal heritage and poignant history converge with a dynamic, modern energy. Set along the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, the capital offers a captivating blend of French colonial architecture, gilded temples, and lively boulevards. Visitors can explore opulent sites like the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, delve into Cambodia’s past at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, or relax with stylish riverside dining and bespoke boutique stays. For the luxury traveler, Phnom Penh is not just a stopover — it’s a destination of culture, resilience, and refined charm.
In Phnom Penh, ancient grandeur meets modern elegance — where golden spires rise above tree-lined boulevards and every street echoes stories of resilience, royalty, and renewal.
Phnom Penh’s history dates back to the 14th century, when legend tells of a wealthy widow named Lady Penh who discovered four Buddha statues inside a tree floating on the Tonlé Sap River. She built a hilltop shrine, now Wat Phnom, giving rise to the city’s name. Phnom Penh became the capital of Cambodia in the 15th century and flourished under French colonial rule in the 19th and early 20th centuries, earning a reputation as the “Pearl of Asia.” However, the city endured great hardship during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s, when it was forcibly evacuated and left desolate. In the decades since, Phnom Penh has experienced a remarkable revival, emerging as a vibrant capital that balances its deep cultural roots with modern sophistication.
Phnom Penh is easily accessible by air, road, and river. Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) welcomes direct international flights from major cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Seoul. For travelers already in Cambodia or neighboring countries, overland transfers via private car, coach, or bus from destinations like Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, or Kampot are common. Alternatively, luxury river cruises along the Mekong also connect Phnom Penh with Vietnam, offering a scenic and relaxed journey into the capital.
Getting around Phnom Penh is convenient and flexible. Private car transfers and chauffeured vehicles offer comfort and ease for luxury travelers exploring the city or heading to nearby attractions. For shorter distances, tuk-tuks and taxis are widely available and can be booked via local apps. Many key sites are within walking distance of the Riverside area. For a more immersive experience, guests can opt for guided city tours, sunset river cruises, or curated experiences arranged by their hotel or travel agency.
Royal Palace & Silver Pagoda
Admire the grandeur of Cambodia’s royal residence, with its gilded spires and the Silver Pagoda, home to the country’s most sacred treasures.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum & Killing Fields
Gain a moving insight into Cambodia’s recent history through these powerful memorial sites that honor the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.
Wat Phnom
Visit the iconic hilltop temple where the city was born — a tranquil spot surrounded by lush trees and local legend.
Riverside Promenade
Stroll along the lively riverfront lined with colonial buildings, markets, cafes, and views of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers.
National Museum of Cambodia
Explore Cambodia’s rich artistic heritage with an impressive collection of Angkorian-era sculptures and artifacts.
Art Galleries & Boutiques
Discover Phnom Penh’s emerging creative scene through stylish galleries, artisan shops, and design-forward concept stores.
Fine Dining & Rooftop Bars
Enjoy gourmet Khmer cuisine and sunset cocktails at some of Southeast Asia’s most elegant restaurants and rooftop venues.
Interested in festivals? read more about festivals in Phnom Penh and around Cambodia.
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