Flights from Perth (PER) to Phnom Penh (KTI)

About Phnom Penh

Discover Phnom Penh

Why visit Phnom Penh?
Phnom Penh is a dynamic riverside capital where tree-lined boulevards meet buzzing streets, and traditional architecture sits alongside modern cafés and galleries. You will find a city that feels intimate yet energetic, with the rhythms of daily life never far from the banks of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers.

What to expect
You can expect a compact centre that is easy to explore, with key areas clustered around the riverfront, the Royal Palace precinct, and lively neighbourhoods filled with shops and eateries. Cyclo drivers, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes weave past French-era buildings and contemporary towers, creating a distinctive urban landscape.

Plan your trip
Phnom Penh is an ideal starting point for discovering Cambodia, with good onward links to coastal getaways and historic cities. Many travellers spend a few days here to get a feel for the country before heading to other regions, making the capital both a rewarding destination and a natural gateway.

Top sights in Phnom Penh

Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda

Explore the manicured palace grounds and admire the Silver Pagoda, known for its gleaming floor tiles and ornate decorations.

Riverfront Promenade

Stroll along the riverside at sunset, where cafés, parks, and street vendors line the junction of the Tonlé Sap and Mekong rivers.

Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

Visit this art deco landmark to browse jewellery, textiles, and everyday goods under its distinctive domed roof.

Russian Market (Toul Tom Poung)

Wander through a maze of stalls offering clothing, souvenirs, and crafts in one of the city’s most atmospheric markets.

Independence Monument area

Walk around this landmark and its surrounding parks, which are especially striking when illuminated in the evening.

Bassac Lane

Discover a compact district of narrow alleys with small bars, eateries, and creative spaces popular with locals and visitors.

Koh Pich (Diamond Island)

Head to this modern riverside development for open spaces, event venues, and views back towards the city skyline.

Experience Phnom Penh’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Getting around Phnom Penh is easiest by tuk-tuk, which can be booked on the street or through local ride-hailing apps for clearer routes. For shorter distances, walking between central sights is straightforward, especially along the riverfront, while cyclos offer a slower, more scenic way to see the streets.

Local life & culture
You will notice the city’s rhythm in early-morning activity along the river, where people exercise, chat, and relax before the day warms up. Neighbourhoods around the markets and older shop-house districts offer glimpses of daily routines, from small family businesses to students gathering in cafés and creative spaces.

Where to unwind
To unwind, seek out green corners such as riverside parks and landscaped public squares that are pleasant in the early morning or late afternoon. A short trip across the river to quieter areas can provide a more rural feel, while rooftop venues and viewpoints let you watch the city lights come on as the evening breeze arrives.

A taste of Phnom Penh

Street food & local specialties
Street food stalls and casual eateries are scattered around markets and busy junctions, where you can sample noodle soups, grilled meats, and rice dishes. The areas near Central Market and riverside streets are good starting points if you want to try a variety of local flavours in one outing.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Phnom Penh has a growing range of contemporary cafés and restaurants, many clustered around BKK1, Bassac Lane, and the riverfront. You can find everything from quick snacks to shared plates, making it easy to try several dishes during each meal and mix local tastes with international favourites.

Signature & scenic dining
For memorable views, consider dining at rooftop venues overlooking the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers or towards the city centre skyline. Some hotels and riverside establishments offer refined settings where you can enjoy carefully prepared menus while watching boats drift by and the city transition into night.

Retail therapy in Phnom Penh

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Phnom Penh bring together international brands, cinemas, supermarkets, and casual dining under one roof. These air-conditioned malls double as social hubs, offering a comfortable break from the heat and a convenient way to run errands or shop between sightseeing stops.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets remain at the heart of city life, with Central Market and Russian Market among the most popular for visitors. Here you can browse fabrics, clothing, artwork, and simple souvenirs, while nearby streets often feature small boutiques and workshops specialising in locally designed goods.

Evening retail scene
In the evening, the shopping experience extends outdoors as stalls and small shops along the riverfront and busy districts stay open late. Illuminated streets, casual snack stands, and relaxed crowds create a pleasant atmosphere for browsing. Local transport and tuk-tuks make it easy to reach these areas and return to your hotel afterwards.

Best time to visit Phnom Penh

Cool dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Phnom Penh enjoys its coolest and driest weather, with average temperatures around 25–28°C (77–82°F). Humidity is lower, skies are often clear, and conditions are comfortable for walking tours, riverfront strolls, and day trips.

Hot season (shoulder season)
March to May brings higher temperatures, often 30–35°C (86–95°F), with intense sunshine and warm evenings. This is a lively time to experience the city’s energy, and planning sightseeing for early morning or late afternoon lets you make the most of the longer daylight hours.

Rainy season (low season)
From June to October, short but heavy showers are common, with temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F). Rain often falls in bursts, leaving fresher air and vivid skies. It is a good period for enjoying the lush riverside scenery and quieter attractions between showers.

Frequently Asked Questions