Flights from Paris (CDG) to Phnom Penh (KTI)

About Phnom Penh

Discover Phnom Penh

Why visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is a riverside capital where boulevards meet buzzing lanes, and traditional architecture stands alongside vibrant contemporary spaces. You will find a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, with wide promenades, leafy corners, and a growing creative and café scene.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers, with key areas like the riverside promenade and central districts offering compact, walkable streets. You can explore grand landmarks, tucked-away alleyways, and emerging galleries, all set against a backdrop of scooters, markets, and colourful shopfronts.

Plan your trip
Phnom Penh works well as both a standalone city break and a starting point for a wider journey through Cambodia. From here, you can travel onward to coastal retreats or historic sites, making the city a convenient hub as well as an engaging destination in its own right.

Top sights in Phnom Penh

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Stroll through this landmark riverside complex to admire ornate roofs, manicured gardens, and a floor inlaid with thousands of silver tiles.

Sisowath Quay

Walk along the riverside promenade at sunset, where you can watch boats glide by and see the city gradually light up.

Central Market (Phsar Thmey)

Explore this striking art deco market hall for souvenirs, jewellery, fabrics, and a glimpse of everyday city life.

Russian Market (Tuol Tom Poung)

Browse a maze of stalls selling clothing, crafts, and homeware, alongside small cafés and boutiques in the surrounding streets.

Wat Phnom

Climb the gentle hill at the city’s namesake temple for leafy views, interesting architecture, and a sense of Phnom Penh’s origins.

Bassac Lane area

Discover compact laneways filled with small bars, eateries, and creative venues, popular with locals and visitors in the evenings.

Independence Monument and city boulevards

Take an evening walk around this illuminated landmark and the surrounding wide avenues to appreciate Phnom Penh’s changing skyline.

Experience Phnom Penh’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Tuk-tuks are one of the easiest ways to move between neighbourhoods, offering open-air views of the streets. For longer journeys, metred cars and ride-hailing apps are widely available, while walking works well within central districts. Keep smaller journeys for cooler mornings or late afternoons.

Local life & culture
Much of daily life in Phnom Penh plays out on pavements, from morning market runs to evening gatherings along the river. Neighbourhoods each have a distinct feel, from bustling traditional markets to quieter residential streets with cafés and small galleries. You will notice a strong blend of heritage buildings and newer developments.

Where to unwind
The riverside promenade is a favourite place to slow down, especially around sunrise and sunset when temperatures are more comfortable. Several parks and green spaces offer shade and a brief escape from traffic. For a calmer perspective, consider a short river cruise to watch the city from the water.

A taste of Phnom Penh

Street food & local specialties
You can sample local dishes at simple street stalls and traditional eateries across the city, especially around markets and busy intersections. From noodle soups to grilled snacks, many places focus on fresh herbs and contrasting textures that are ideal for a light meal in the heat.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Phnom Penh has an increasing number of cafés and modern restaurants clustered in central districts and around popular expat neighbourhoods. Menus often mix local recipes with regional and international flavours, and modest portion sizes make it easy to share several plates with friends or family.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable meal, look for rooftop venues or riverside restaurants where you can dine with views of the skyline or the water. Many offer open terraces that are especially appealing at dusk. A relaxed dinner cruise is another way to pair local dishes with a changing city backdrop.

Retail therapy in Phnom Penh

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Newer shopping centres in Phnom Penh bring together international brands, cinemas, and family-friendly dining under one roof. These air-conditioned spaces offer a comfortable break from the midday heat and often host events or pop-ups that give a sense of the city’s contemporary lifestyle.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets like Central Market and Russian Market are key stops for textiles, accessories, and handicrafts. Nearby streets have small boutiques showcasing local designers, home décor, and art pieces. Exploring these areas at an unhurried pace is a good way to discover items with a stronger connection to the city.

Evening retail scene
After dark, some markets and street-side areas stay lively with illuminated stalls and shops open later into the evening. The riverside and selected central boulevards feel particularly atmospheric when the temperatures cool. These areas are easy to reach by tuk-tuk or car from most hotels.

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, temperatures in Phnom Penh are usually around 22–30°C (72–86°F) with lower humidity and clearer skies. This is considered peak season, ideal for walking tours, riverfront strolls, and day trips with less heat.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings hotter days, often 28–35°C (82–95°F), with strong sunshine and hazier afternoons. As a shoulder season, it is a good time for slower sightseeing, indoor galleries, and relaxed café stops, with bright sunsets along the river.

Green rainy season (low season)
From June to October, expect warm temperatures of roughly 25–32°C (77–90°F) and short, often intense, afternoon showers. This low season creates lush greenery and fewer crowds, with mornings and evenings especially pleasant for riverside walks and exploring markets.

Frequently Asked Questions