Cities remain the same despite the nation you’re visiting but to truly grasp the heart of a city, you need to explore its history – and there’s endless history in Phnom Phen, Cambodia – so here is how to spend 48 Hours in Phnom Phen.
Luckily, if you’re short on time or just on a stop-over, you can still experience Phnom Phen in 48 hours – or less, depending on your energy levels!
In order to maximise your stay, book accomodation in the city centre as everything you’d want to see is located in or around the centre.
Side note: as you probably know, Cambodia was under the reign of the Khmer Rouge and there are two sights, Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and The Killing Fields, in Phnom Phen showcasing the extent of the torture committed in the name of revolution. If you’re sensitive to energy or just easily affected emotionally then visit one Khmer Rouge related site per day or else your head might explode from trying to grasp the atrocities men can be capable of…
Day 1 Phnom Phen
National Museum of Cambodia The perfect start to learn about Cambodia and its history – plus, the complex exudes serenity with its aesthetic landscaping
Friends the Restaurant Located by the National Museum of Cambodia, Friends the Restaurant aims to provide jobs for street kids – but if you’re on a budget then don’t worry, gal, as numerous street stalls litter that stretch of road.
Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum Use PassApp (local taxi app) for a cheap ride to the museum and allow yourself at least 1-2 hours to fully soak in every detail
Day 2 Phnom Phen
Royal Palace The Royal Palace is closed between 10.30 am to 2 pm so if you want to avoid hoards of mainland Chinese tourists, arrive before the afternoon session – oh and you will need to cover your chest and shoulders so either bring a pashmina or wear a t-shirt
Daughters of Cambodia Before visiting The Killing Fields, treat yourself to food, or snacks, as the restaurants near your next sight are overpriced – or even treat yourself to a spa at Daughters of Cambodia, which employs women who were in the sex industry
The Killing Fields Located 15 km from the city, PassApp charges around 5$ to and 5$ fro whereas tuk-tuk drivers charge 15-20$ to and fro. If you can, purchase the audio tour but even without, the experience is eye-opening – and the museum has free screenings with more information
Of course, all the sights listed can be explored within a day but again, emotionally it will be a heavy day so prepare yourself mentally if you decide to squeeze everything into one!
Post by Raisa Gabrielli of Raisa Reviews – a lifestyle website focused on travel content.
