Flights from Hong Kong (HKG) to Phnom Penh (KTI)

About Phnom Penh

Discover Phnom Penh

Why visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is a lively riverside capital where broad boulevards meet winding alleys, and traditional shophouses sit beside modern towers. You will find a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, with café-lined streets, leafy promenades, and a growing creative scene along the river.

What to expect
The city spreads along the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers, with key areas such as the riverside Sisowath Quay, the historic Royal Palace precinct, and the more contemporary BKK1 district. Traffic can be busy but vibrant, and you will quickly notice the mix of classic French-era architecture, colourful markets, and new developments.

Plan your trip
Phnom Penh works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point to explore Cambodia. From here, you can connect onwards to destinations such as Siem Reap, coastal resorts, or rural provinces. With its compact size, you can see major sights in a few days while still leaving room for relaxed strolls and café stops.

Top sights in Phnom Penh

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Explore the ornate royal compound, admire gilded roofs, and visit the Silver Pagoda with its gleaming floor tiles and treasured artworks.

National Museum of Cambodia

Discover sculptures, artefacts, and traditional arts in a graceful terracotta building set around peaceful courtyards near the river.

Sisowath Quay Riverside Promenade

Stroll along the riverfront at sunset, watch boats glide past, and pause at cafés and parks lining the promenade.

Central Market (Phsar Thmey)

Visit this striking domed market to browse jewellery, clothes, souvenirs, and everyday goods in a bustling local atmosphere.

Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung)

Wander through narrow aisles filled with textiles, handicrafts, and household items, and experience one of the city’s busiest local markets.

AEON Mall Phnom Penh

Head to this modern mall for international brands, dining options, and air-conditioned comfort close to the city centre.

Bassac Lane

Discover a compact neighbourhood of small bars, eateries, and creative spaces tucked into narrow side streets near the river.

Experience Phnom Penh’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks and ride-hailing services are the easiest way to move between neighbourhoods, offering flexible door-to-door transport. For longer journeys, you can use taxis or pre-arranged drivers, while walking works well within central districts such as the riverfront.

Local life & culture
Much of daily life in Phnom Penh happens outdoors, from morning market runs to evening riverfront gatherings. You will notice small family-run shops, open-front cafés, and a growing number of galleries and creative studios, especially in districts popular with younger residents.

Where to unwind
The riverfront promenade is one of the most relaxing spots in the city, especially around sunrise and sunset when temperatures soften. You can also unwind in shaded city parks or in hotel pools and spa facilities, many of which offer day access for non-guests.

A taste of Phnom Penh

Street food & local specialties
Phnom Penh’s streets and markets are ideal for sampling local dishes, from noodle soups to grilled skewers and rice-based favourites. Areas around Central Market and the riverside often have small stalls and casual eateries open from early morning until late evening.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find an easy mix of local and international flavours in neighbourhoods such as BKK1 and Bassac. Many cafés and restaurants serve sharing-style plates and manageable portions, so you can try several specialities in one meal or over a relaxed evening with friends.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, choose a restaurant overlooking the river, a rooftop terrace with skyline views, or a refined venue in a heritage-style villa. These settings pair carefully presented dishes with a sense of occasion, especially at sunset when the city lights begin to glow.

Retail therapy in Phnom Penh

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern malls such as AEON and nearby lifestyle centres bring together international brands, local labels, cinemas, and casual eateries under one roof. They are popular meeting spots, especially in the hotter parts of the day when air-conditioned spaces feel particularly welcome.

Markets & local crafts
For something more traditional, explore Central Market, Russian Market, and the streets around them for textiles, souvenirs, and simple homewares. Smaller boutiques scattered across BKK1 and the riverside area often showcase locally designed fashion, accessories, and décor.

Evening retail scene
After dark, market areas and riverside streets remain lively, with illuminated stalls, small shops, and pop-up vendors creating a relaxed night-time atmosphere. Many of these areas sit close to central hotels and are easy to reach using tuk-tuks or short taxi rides.

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Phnom Penh enjoys its coolest and driest months, with average temperatures around 25–28°C (77–82°F). Skies are generally clear, humidity is lower, and it is a popular time for sightseeing and walking along the riverfront.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings hotter weather, with average temperatures of 30–33°C (86–91°F). Days can feel warm, but longer daylight hours and bright sunshine create vivid city views, especially from rooftop terraces and riverside spots in the early morning or late afternoon.

Green monsoon season (low season)
From June to October, short, often intense showers help cool the city, with temperatures typically around 28–31°C (82–88°F). Rain frequently falls in bursts, leaving fresh air and quieter streets, and you will notice greener parks and softer light over the river between showers.

Frequently Asked Questions