Absolute Asia/Destinations/Cambodia/Phnom Penh
The Essence of Phnom Penh
Suggestions for Discovering Phnom Penh Our specialists uncover authentic ways to explore Phnom Penh, offering top experiences with local guides that highlight the city’s rich history and vib…
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s dynamic capital, is a city where golden-roofed pagodas stand side by side with gleaming skyscrapers. It’s a place to visit in Cambodia for anyone seeking both culture and excitement. Let’s explore Phnom Penh with Absolute Asia Tours!
When you are going to visit Phnom Penh, Raffles Hotel Le Royal is one of the best places to stay. The property has great history, as it acted as a Red Cross facility during the civil war. A quick Vespa ride away is your next stop: the Vattanac Capital Tower. Their sky bar provides excellent views across the 14th-century pagodas, colonial buidings, and modern skyscrapers that all come together to create a beautiful skyline as the city rises.
Architectural Highlights During Your Phnom Penh Tour
If you are drawn to the colonial-Khmer architecture of Phnom Penh, then an architectural tour will reveal the stunning mix of the old and new, like the New-Khmer designed Institute of Foreign Languages and the Art Deco Central Market.
Cultural Highlights and The Phnom Penh Water Festival
The Royal Palace is where the king lives and is home to the famous Silver Pagoda, home to a life-size and beautiful Buddha that is bedecked with almost 10,000 diamonds! You could plan your tour to finish in November for the Phnom Penh Water Festival (Bon Om Tuk) – a single day celebration celebrated once a year in Cambodia. The Phnom Penh Water Festival attracts local boats with their magnificent decorations for boat races, fireworks, and colorful street fair partying in the city. This event is one of Cambodia’s biggest events (and, arguably, the most spectacular)! Take a ride through the water festival celebrations and see the traditions of Cambodia.
And if you are wanting to see yet another cultural highlight museum, the National Museum of Cambodia has the largest collection of Khmer sculptures in the world. From ancient statues of Vishnu and other gods that are carved in stone and plaster, to bronze casts of stylized naked Khmer, you must see this place while doing any Phnom Penh tour, as it will add a wealth of culture to your bucket list!
Phnom Penh’s Nightlife
Phnom Penh nightlife is infinitely enjoyable! You can do it in style with a Vespa tour of the best bars and restaurants across town, sampling Khmer food and local craft beers. This is one of the most memorable things to do in Phnom Penh – it also ends at the famous Bassac Lane where you might catch live jazz music!
Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields of Choeung Ek
No Cambodia tour is complete without going to Tuol Sleng, a high school turned detention centre by the Khmer Rouge regime. With a professional guide, you will visit both locations and learn about the difficult history within Phnom Penh during Pol Pot, which is a sad and sobering experience for visitors.
If you’re ready to unlock Phnom Penh with a personalized experience, consider Absolute Asia Tours for customized Cambodia tours!
Our Favorite Journeys
Phnom Penh, at Its Best Right Now
Song Saa: The Must-Visit Luxury Private Island Resort in Cambodia
Song Saa Resort, in the Koh Rong archipelago, offers a tranquil retreat from Sihanoukville. Guests are warmly welcomed upon arrival after a short boat ride.
Top 10 luxury experiences in Cambodia
Siem Reap is a must-see destination in Cambodia for first-time and returning visitors. Experience luxury and tranquility at Phum Baitang, just minutes from vibrant night markets.
Cruising in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia cruises unveil hidden gems inaccessible by land. From Burma to Halong Bay, choose from luxurious to simple boats that provide unique, less-touristed experiences.
Asia’s Finest Exclusive Island Retreats
There’s no experience quite like escaping to a private island resort for an exclusive retreat. Check out our recommendations for the most luxurious private island resorts in Asia.
Cambodia & Thailand Overland
This fairly relaxed two week Thailand and Cambodia itinerary combines the classic tourist hotspots of Bangkok, Phnom Penh and Angkor, with a peaceful Thai island and off-the-beaten track jungle lodge.
DiscoverRainforests & Ruins: Protecting Cambodia’s Wild
Rainforests & Ruins: Protecting Cambodia’s Wild Begin in Phnom Penh where you’ll discover the city’s spectacular architecture from 20th century French-colonial influences to the New Khmer architecture of the 1950’s and 60’s. The best way to explore the chaotic lanes is by cyclo. As you pedal through the streets, your guide will bring the architecture…
DiscoverSouthern Vietnam to Cambodia Bike Tour
Southern Vietnam to Cambodia Bike Tour The amazing scenery of Vietnam and Cambodia is explored on this bike adventure. Starting in South Vietnam in the Mekong Delta and cycling through the amazing South Coast of Cambodia, finishing at the ancient religious wonder, Angkor. This ride is designed for travelers who like to take their time…
DiscoverVietnam and Cambodia Beach Vacation
Vietnam and Cambodia Beach Vacation Experience the ultimate Vietnam and Cambodia Beach Vacation with this 12-day tropical getaway. Bask in the sun and explore some of Asia’s most breathtaking coastlines as you visit Vietnam’s top seaside destinations, including Hoi An, Halong Bay, and Nha Trang, along with the stunning white sands of Koh Rong Samloem…
DiscoverAngkor & Beyond Helicopter Tour
Trekking With the Boss: The Climb of a Lifetime Pick up your backpack and follow… your boss! We at Absolute Asia love to share our inspirations, and for our annual meeting in 2023, we climbed up Mt. Fansipan.
DiscoverAngkor Wat Experience
Angkor Wat Experience This popular tour of Angkor’s many highlights begins with an afternoon visit to Ta Kaeo, one of the lesser known temples within the Angkor complex. The view from atop is incredible, and you can enjoy the breathtaking sunset over the ruins before returning to your hotel. Rise early the following morning for…
DiscoverCultural Highlights of Malaysia & Singapore
Cultural Highlights of Malaysia & Singapore: A 13-Day Heritage Journey Experience the modern flair of Singapore, colonial architecture of Malacca, and cultural tapestry of Penang, all in this 13-day tour that highlights the heritage and contrasting landscapes of Southeast Asia. This tour allows you to explore bustling cities, UNESCO cities, and breathtaking countryside, for a…
DiscoverFrom Sihanoukville to Angkorwat & Saigon
This 3-day tour will allow us to live one of the most intense experiences of the whole trip. A mystical journey through the most beautiful temples of Cambodia that will leave us speechless.
DiscoverMulti-Day Adventure: 2 Night Stay at Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site
Multi-Day Adventure: 2-Night Stay at Angkor Wat UNESCO World Heritage Site (Double Occupancy) from Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam Take a trip to Siem Reap Province to discover the ancient wonders of Cambodia. Explore this magical region, where old temples are hidden in the jungle, and floating villages connect to the lost Khmer…
DiscoverRecommended Hotels
Choose Your Phnom Penh Address
Your Route Through Phnom Penh
Place on the map
Read Before You Go
Guides & Stories from Phnom Penh
Best Private Asia Luxury Tours for Americans
Asia offers extraordinary diversity, world-class hospitality, and unforgettable cultural experiences, making it one of the top destinations for American travelers seeking premium v…
Read moreBest Things to Do in Asia
Planning a trip to Asia? Our guide to the best things to do covers 20+ countries, including Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam. Find travel ideas for temples, beaches, and treks.
Read moreTraveling Safely in Thailand and Cambodia: What You Should Know in 2025
Planning a trip to Thailand or Cambodia? Our 2025 safety guide covers everything from city crime to border warnings so you can travel smarter. Is it safe? Find out here.
Read moreTop UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Asia
Explore Asia’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites by country. Discover ancient cities, jungles, and sacred temples with links to tours across Southeast Asia.
Read moreVietnam & Cambodia Tours: A Luxurious Mekong River Cruise
Experience the best of Southeast Asia on a luxurious Mekong River cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia.
Read moreTop 10 Luxury Tours to Experience the Best of Southeast Asia
Discover Southeast Asia’s elegance with curated luxury packages that combine rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional service for an unforgettable getaway.
Read moreSpeak to a Travel Specialist
Every journey is private, tailor-made, and planned around your pace, interests, and preferred style of travel. Connect with a destination specialist to begin designing your itinerary.
Start Planning
Ready to see Phnom Penh on your own terms?
Share a few details and a private travel designer will reach out within one business day.
